The land of everlasting love. Enchanting life & lifestyles. Nature's splendor. Timeless legends. Charming myths. Eternal truth. Emperors. And Gods. And you thought Taj is the only wonder you can find in Uttar Pradesh? From rediscovering glorious Mughal history to discovery of breathtaking natural beauty and experiencing the divine land of Lord Krishna, an expedition on the Agra-Braj circuit is a journey where the charismatic beauty of outer world blends with the serene beauty of inner-self. Only in unmatched Uttar Pradesh, where else?

Agra

Agra is crowned with the glory of the unparalleled Taj Mahal with which Mughal architecture reached its zenith. But there is much more to Agra. Many great monuments of unrivaled Mughal architecture speak of the grandeur and glory that was the essence of Mughal Empire. The splendor of the mausoleums, the fort and the palaces is a vivid reminder of the opulence of the Mughal Empire, of which Agra was the capital in the 16th and early 17th centuries. Agra silently speaks about the rich history of Mughal Empire that is now buried in times, but is definitely not dead. It's alive in every brick, every corridor. A visit to Agra is a timeless journey into a glorious history.

Historical Attractions

Taj Mahal - The Immortal Poem Of Love.

This immortal poem in white marble is the finest expression of undying love of Emperor Shajahan's love for his queen. He made immortal not only her and himself but the spirit of love which transcends across the world. "Love never dies. It's immortal." The Taj Mahal, 3 km from the Mall, is on the bank of the river Yamuna. It was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the undying memory of his beloved queen Mumtaz Mahal in 1631. (Important: The Taj Mahal remains closed on Fridays.}

Agra Fort - Where history takes a new birth.

Built by Emperor Akbar in 1565 A.D., this Fort is a masterpiece of design and construction. Within the Fort are a number of exquisite buildings, including the Moti Masjid, Diwan-e-Aam, Diwan-e-Khaas and Musamman Burj, where Emperor Shah Jahan had died in imprisonment. Jahangir's Palace, Khaas Mahal and Sheesh Mahal are the other important monuments inside the Fort. Each speaking about the many trials and tribulations, glorious victories and the innumerable enchanting stories of Mughal era.

Sikandara - A fusion of art and spiritualism

The mausoleum of Emperor Akbar represents his philosophy and secular outlook combining the best of Hindu and Muslim architectures in a superlative fusion. Completed in 1613 A.D., it is one of the most well-preserved monuments.

Jama Masjid

Where heads bowed and hearts opened up Of special importance due to the assimilation of Iranian architectural elements, it was built in 1648 A.D. by Emperor Shah Jahan's daughter, Jahanara Begum.

Itmad-ud-daulah's Tomb

Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb, 6 km. from the Taj, was built by Empress Noor Jahan, in memory of her father Mirza Ghias Beg in 1622-25 A.D. This ornate tomb is considered a precursor of the Taj Mahal.

Chini-ka-roza

7 km. from the Mall. This tomb of Allama Afzel Khan Mullah of Shiraz is a memorial to the poet-scholar, who later became the prime minister of Emperor Shah Jahan. The surface of the tomb is decorated with glazed tiles.

Rambagh

8 km. This earliest example of Mughal garden was created by the founder of the Mughal dynasty, Emperor Babar.

Mariyam's Tomb

13 km. Built for Emperor Akbar's Goan wife, Mariyam, in 1611 A.D., the tomb has exceptional carvings and finish in red sandstone.

Modern Attractions

Radha Swami Samadhi, Dayalbagh

This highly ornate memorial to the founder of the Radha Swami sect has been in the making for several years and work is still going on. It is entirely in marble, upon which every manner of ornamentation has been applied. Another Radha Swami temple known as Huzuri Bhawan is in Peepal Mandi locality. (Important: Open from 8.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. only)

Taj Nature Walk

A beautiful natural forest cover spreads over 70 hectares of area, 500 metres away from the eastern gate of the Taj Mahal. An excellent view of the Taj can be had from the different mounds of the park.
Sound & Light Show at Agra Taj Fort. A light & sound show both in English and Hindi at the red fort. Entry Fee: Rs. 75/- for show in English & Rs. 30/-for Hindi show. Time: 1st April to 30th Sept., 19:15 - 20:15 hrs (Eng.) 20:30-21:30 hrs (Hindi); 1st Oct. to 31st March 19:00 - 20:0 hrs (Eng.) 20:15 - 21:15 hrs (Hindi) Tel.:+91 0562 2311009,2364512

Other Attractions

Shaheed Smarak (Martyr's memorial) on Mahatma Gandhi Road has a museum containing literature, pictures and statues of freedom fighters. Agra also has a number of beautiful Hindu and Jain temples, Gurudwaras and Churches.

FATEHPUR SIKRI -  Blessing of Sheikh Salim Chishti.

37 km. west of Agra (45 minutes drive), perched atop a rocky ridge. Fatehpur Sikri came into being four centuries ago when Emperor Akbar, not yet 28 years old, set out to build the first planned city in Indo-lslamic architecture. By 1568, Akbar had secured his empire but his only grief was that he had no son and heir. His search for blessings for the birth of a successor brought him to the Sufi mystic Salim Chishti, who lived, in Sikri village. The saint prophesied the birth of three sons and soon Prince Salim, who later became Emperor Jehangir, was born. To express his gratitude Akbar decided to build imperial residences in Sikri, which would function as a joint capital with Agra. He also named the new city as Fatehpur Sikri. Akbar was a keen builder and the plan of Fatehpur Sikri reveals an architectural mastermind at work. Researches have established that it was planned on a definite mathematical grid. Apart from the tomb of Sheikh Salim Chisti Diwan-E-Am, Diwan-E-Khas, Pachisi Court, Mariam's Palace, Jodhabai's Palace, Panch Mahal, Buland Darwaza and Jama Masjid are the timeless attractions of Fatehpur Sikri.

Best time to visit: The best months to visit Agra & Fatehpur Sikri are from October to March. However early morning and evenings remain pleasant even during summers.

Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

60 km. from Agra (An hour drive). Also known as Keoldeo Ghana National Park.
A renowned water bird sanctuary situated in the neighboring state of Rajasthan is the winter home of the rare Siberian crane.
Approachable from Agra by road. Best time to visit: October to February.

Patna Bird Sanctuary

54 km. from Agra (45 minutes drive). The Patna Bird Sanctuary is spread over an area of 108 hectare. Ornithologists have reported about 300 different species of exotic birds with multicolor plumes clustering here for roosting and breeding during the peak season of winter months. These winged visitors start migrating back when hot weather conditions set in during the month of March. The scenic beauty of the sanctuary with intertwined date trees provides a topographic atmosphere akin to Goa, in Uttar Pradesh. Besides the migratory birds, Patna Bird Sanctuary is a permanent abode for local birds also, which abound all through the year. For long it has been a favorite breeding centre for a large number of migratory birds. An old and historic temple dedicated to Lord Shiva attracts thousands of pilgrims for spiritual pursuits. Approachable from Agra by road. Best time to visit: October to February

Sur Sarovar (Keetham Lake)

23 km (half hour drive) from Agra. This 2.5 sq. km lake, surrounded by the Surdas Reserve Forest, harbors a variety of fish and water-birds and is a popular picnic spot.
Bus services are available upto Runakta, believed to be the birth place of the great poet-saint Surdas, 3 km away from Sur Sarovar. For fishing, permit can be obtained from Executive Engineer (Lower Div.), Agra Canal, The Mall, Agra.

Chambal Safari

80 km. (half an hour drive). It offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural and historical heritage of the Chambal valley.

Approachable from Agra by road. Best time to visit: October to March.

For reservation contact: Tel.: (0562-2523102, Mob : 9837415512
 

Mathura - Vrindavan

Braj-Bhoomi is richly interwoven with the legend of Lord Krishna. Mathura, traditionally recognised as the capital of Braj Bhoomi, is the land where Lord Krishna was born and spent his youth. The Twin City of Vrindavan, 15 km. away, is integral to the legend of Lord Krishna. This is the place where Lord Krishna played his flute and performed his many Leelas (acts). The town was later immortalized in the poetry of Surdas, Raskhan, Meerabai and other great poets.

Places of interest

In Mathura there is "Katra Keshav Dev", the birth place of Lord Krishna, Dwarikadheesh Temple, over 25 Ghaats (River Bank), Kunds (Religious water bodies) and a host of others temples. Vrindavan also houses many temples and Ghats.

How to reach: Mathura is just 56 km. (an hour drive) away from Agra while Vrindavan is 65 km. (an hour drive).

Savor Your journey

There is a whole range of delightful cuisine to be savored while on tour to Agra-Brij circuit of Uttar Pradesh. While in Agra, don't miss upon rich mughali delicacies. Agra offers great dining options with top-end hotels and restaurants as well as various budget restaurants and eating joints. Also try out Agra's famous sweets "Petha" & "Gajak" and snacks like "Dalmoth". As you discover Mathura and Vrindavan, indulge into the famous "Mathura ke pede", mouthwatering kachauris, utterly delicious pure vegetarian delicacies and a host of traditionally prepared sweets.

What to buy

Agra is famous for inlay-work in marble and woolen carpets. Agra is also famous for leather goods, brassware, semi-precious and precious jewellery. The numerous small shops display an array of zardozi embroidered garments. Also available are purses and bags with Zardozi or intricate hand embroidery done with gold and silver thread. Some of the major shopping centres are Gwalior Road, Kinari Bazar, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Pratap Pura, Sadar Bazar. In mathura explore local markets for a host of spiritual items ranging from various artifacts depicting Lord Krishna to incense sticks, trinkets and ritual items etc.

Where to stay

Agra has a wide range of accommodation ranging from 5 Star deluxe hotels to a range of budget accommodations. Agra also has luxury resorts and Golf Course. Mathura, on the other hand, has limited accommodation in the 2/3 Star category.

• UPSTDC, Rahi Tourist Bungalow, Near Raja Ki Mandi, Railway Station, Agra Ph: (0562)2850120, 2851720.

• UPSTDC, Hotel Taj Khema, Near Eastern Gate of Taj Mehal, Agra Ph: (0562)2330140 Fax: 2230001

• UPSTDC, Rahi Tourist Bungalow, 32 Civil Lines, Mathura Ph:(0565)-2407822

Business Hours

Government offices Monday to Saturday are open from 10.00 Hrs. to 17.00 Hrs. Shopping areas are generally open from 10.00 Hrs. to 20.00 Hrs.

Conducted Tour

Conducted tour to Taj Mahal, Agra fort and Fatehpur Sikri are run daily by U.P. State Tourism Development Corporation.

Bookings and reservations can be made at Hotel Taj Khema near Taj Mahal's eastern gate Ph.: 2330140 or Tourist Information Counter, Agra Cantt. Railway Station, Ph.: 2368598

Tourist Information Offices

U.P. Government Tourist Office, 64 Taj Road Ph.: 91-562-2226431
U.P. Government Tourist Reception Counter, Agra Cantt. Ph.: 91-562-2421204
Government of India Tourist Office, 191, The Mall Ph.: 2226368

Travel Information

How to get there:

Rail :

Convenient rail connections to important cities are available from Agra Cantt., Agra Fort, Raja-ki-Mandi and Tundla stations. The Taj express and the Shatabdi Express run daily to Agra from Delhi. The Taj Express which leaves Delhi at 7.15 am. from the Nizamuddin Station reaches Agra at 9.50 am. This is best suited for day trippers. The Superfast Shatabdi leaves Delhi at 6.00 am and reached Agra at 8.15 am. Cars are available for hire at the railway station in Agra.

Road :

Buses ply to all major cities from Agra. Some important road distances are:
Mathura-56 km, Bharatpur-57 km, Gwalior-119 km, Delhi-204 km, Jaipur-232 km, Lucknow-369 km, Khajuraho-400 km, Varanasi-605 km. The well mentioned eight-lane highway national highway no 2. The 200 km journey takes barely 4 hours by car. Buses from Delhi's Sarai Kale Khan interstate Bus Terminus (I.S.B.T.) run on hourly basis to Agra.

Roadways Enquiry

U.P. State Road Transport Corporation, Idgah Bus Stand Ph.: 2420324
Power House Bus Stand Ph.: 364557
Rajasthan State Transport Corporation Sheetal Tourist Home, Near Idgah Bus Stand Ph.: 2420228