Going to Agra to see the Taj? There is much more to see and experience in this historical Indian city.
The New York Times has listed 52 spectacular places in the world to visit in 2017.
Agra is on Number 3 on the list!
What makes this historic city an international destination?
Do we need to ask?
The Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal...
Once you have visited this famed stanza of poetry in stone, there are several other experiences thatll make your trip to Agra memorable.
#1. The Taj Mahal
Zoom into intricate Mughal carvings in white marble here.
The monument of love on the banks of Yamuna is frameworthy from every angle, any time of the day, its every nook and cranny.
The Taj has that reaction with everyone -- the urge to shoot 1,000 pics over the next few minutes.
Remember to put your camera away 200 frames later and sit down to soak in its beauty. Your minds eye needs a pic too.
#2. Explore Agra Fort
Spread across 94 acres, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is a city in itself.
Spare at least half a day to absorb its architecture and relevance in Indias history.
#3. The ruins of Fatehpur Sikhri
Photograph: Marcin Bialek/Wikimedia Commons
Heard of the nine jewels in Akbars darbar? The navratnas, including Birbal, were appointed here.
Do catch sight of the Buland Darwaza and the Jama Masjid at Fatehpur Sikhri, the forgotten but elaborate city of the Mughals.
#4. Stuff yourself in Mughlai food
mughlai food
Photograph: Acoomar/Wikimedia Commons
Complete your trip to Agra by feasting on some of the countrys best Mughlai cuisine.
Head for Methi Mattar Paranthas, kebabs and biryani to either Jai Hind in Sadar Bazaar, Ram Babu Parathawalla in Sikandra, Esphahan on Taj East Gate Road or for plusher experience to ITC Mughal.
#5. Sign off with a petha. Or three
petha
Photograph: PJ.wikilovesfood/Wikimedia Commons
After a memorable meal, head to any of the citys sweets shops for pethas. Most famous is Panchhi Petha. Beware of fakes. The original shop is near Noori Gate and has on its premises a picture up of owner Seth Pancham Lal Goyal, fondly called Panchhi.
Choose from a wide range of flavours -- paan, kesar, chocolate. You will be spoilt for choice.
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