Agra

In Agra, you will be caught up in a world of contrasting edifices, of red sandstone and white marble, narrow galleys and quaint buggies, as well as the city irresistible charm. Two great Mughal monarchs, Akbar and Shah Jahan, had transformed the little village of Agra into a befitting second capital of the Mughal Empire. Unsurprisingly, modern Agra has held onto its Mughal heritage so that the modern city is blended with old and beautiful monuments.

Taj Mahal

Begin your discovery of the historic city of Agra with a visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal, a pristine white marble mausoleum built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife – Mumtaz Mahal. One of the Seven Wonders of the World, it took 20,000 workers from neighboring Islamic countries, 22 years of ceaseless toil to create this exquisite white marble monument upon which people have waxed eloquent throughout the world.

Agra Fort

Afterwards, visit the impressive red sandstone Agra Fort built by Akbar - the most illustrious ruler of the Mughal dynasty - in 1565 A.D. It was subsequently embellished with beautiful palaces, mosque and gardens by his successors. Replete with priceless examples of craftsmanship from the Mughal era, these include the exquisite Moti Masjid or Pearl Mosque, the Diwan-i-Khas, the Diwan-i-Am, Jahangir Mahal and Shish Mahal.

Fatehpur Sikri

Fatehpur Sikri, approximately a little over an hour drive from Agra. Constructed by Akbar between 1570 -1585 A.D., this red sandstone city houses many impressive architectural monuments. Most remarkable among these are the towering Buland Darwaza, the exquisite marble tomb of Salim Chishti (the Muslim mystic who gave his blessings to Emperor Akbar for a son), Panch Mahal, Jodha Bais Palace, Birbal Bhavan and the unique checkered Pachisi Court.