The Taj Mahal – Photo Courtesy: Dinesh Bhuria
Owing to the presence of many historical monuments, Agra is a hot tourist destination round the world. Agra is one of the most popular cities in India as well as the most visited city by tourists from all over. There is no denying the fact that the city is a favorite tourist spot for tourists and backpackers both from India and abroad. UNESCO World Heritage monument, and the epitome of love, the Taj Mahal is located in Agra making the city popular worldwide. Foreign tourists always consider their trip to India incomplete if they haven’t visited the one and only Taj Mahal.
However, Agra is not only about the Taj Mahal. In addition to the Taj Mahal, Agra has many other places to visit near Taj Mahal; to explore them all a day is not enough, so plan a week’s holiday and enjoy these monuments of the Mughal era.
Akbar’s Tomb, Sikandra
Akbar’s Tomb (Sikandra), Agra, India. Photo Courtesy: Jorge Lascar
The Tomb of Emperor Akbar is situated in the northern part of the city. The tomb is built in the center of a huge garden. The construction of the tomb was started by Akbar, though later his son Jahangir finished the construction of Sikandra. He modified the structure of the tomb to make it look like a group of bunched architectural lines. It has 4 red sandstones that mark as gates leading to the tomb. Akbar’s Tomb, Sikandra is open seven days a week for tourists from 6 am up to 6 pm every day.
Ram Bagh
Ram Bagh Pavilions, Agra, India – Photo Courtesy: Varun Shiv Kapur
This is the oldest and the largest Mughal garden and was built by Babar in 1528 AD. Built on the banks of the river Yamuna, the garden is designed in such a way that the winds coming from Yamuna River keep the place cool in hot summers.
Mariam’s Tomb
This tomb is built on the western part of Akbar’s Tomb. This famous tomb was built by Jehangir for his mother, Mariam Zammani (a royal title given to her during Akbar’s rule). The structure is built of white marble.
Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daulah
Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, Agra, India – Photo Courtesy: Christian Haugen
Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb was built by Empress Nur Jehan, and the tomb is also known as ‘Baby Taj’ sometimes because Empress Nur Jehan’s father was the Chief Minister of Emperor Jehangir. Among locals, the tomb is famous by the name of a jewelry box.
Mankameshwar Temple
Mankameshwar Temple is the oldest temple of Agra city. Dedicated to Hindu Lord Shiva, it is believed that the temple was founded by Lord Shiva himself during the Dwapara era. A large number of devotees visit this temple every day.
Jehangir’s Palace
Jehangir Palace, Agra, India – Photo Courtesy: Connie Ma
Jehangir Palace was built by Akbar and this was the largest private residence in the fort built for his son. The palace is a mix blend of Hindu and central Asian architectural styles in contrast to the unique Mughal style.
There are many places to visit near the Taj Mahal. If you want to truly enjoy the beauty of Agra, then plan a holiday to the city of love and choose an accommodation near the Taj Mahal to explore these destinations at your own convenience.
Chandralekha is a Travel enthusiast, currently working with ixigo.com, an online India Travel Guide that helps you to plan your trip to India. This time she has written on Agra tourism. Hope this information will help you to plan your trip to Agra.
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