Agra : The City of Taj Mahal
The Flower of the Mughal empire-in-ascendance, Agra is, also, home to that immortal epitome of love, Taj Mahal. Though the city retained regal favour for just three generations, it was embellished with the best of the dynasty’s architectural legacy. The over 300 years old Taj, however, is its most compulsive feature and attract! the largest number of tourists from all over the world. Also within the city’s ambit lies Fatehpur Sikri, virtually an expres¬sion of philosophy and creed of a liberal emperor. In keeping with its status of the most sought-after destination, Agra today boasts of worldclass hotels with excellent facilities and services. The city is also amongst the most accessible.
Related Travel Information
Local Transport
Almost all activity in Agra is within a 5-km radius of the Taj Mahal. Auto-rickshaws, and taxis are available, rates negotiable. Coaches and taxis, a/c & non-a/c, can be hired from travel agencies. Car Hire
Tours Conducted tours to Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri are operated by the U.P. State Tourism Development Corporation and various other travel agencies.
Reaching Agra by Rail
Agra is best connected to Delhi by superfast luxury and express trains. The same day return services of Shatabdi Express to Bhopal via Agra I hrs.), Gwalior and Jhansi Taj Express (2.5 hrs), Intercity Express (3.5 hrs.) and are the best options that also make short excursion tours to the city possible. A shatabdi-type superfast luxury trains has now also been introduced between Agra and Jaipur.
Being on the major trunk routes of Indian Railways, Agra is also con- netted to all other parts of the country by express trains.
Agra Fort (for Jaipur) and Agra Cantt Railway Stations
Entertainment/Sports in Agra
Chambal Safari: A privately operated nature and wildlife resort located at Ater Fort, 90 km from Agra, on the borders of National Chambal Sanctuary. The Sanctuary along the Chambal River. Shelters a wide variety of wildlife, including crocodiles, dolphins, deer, antelope and water birds. River cruises for wildlife viewing, camping, nature walks, clay pigeon shooting are some of the activities offered- Part of the proceeds are donated to the Cham-ba! Conservation Foundation. For details and bookings: Jarar Estate, Jarar House, Mathura Road, Agra
Taj Nature Walk: The 70 hectares of forest cover developed around the Taj Mahal, just
Reaching Agra by Air
Agra is connected to Delhi by a daily flight of Indian Airlines (30 minutes) that continues to Khajuraho (35 minutes) and Varanasi (40 minutes}, from where it returns the same day.
Kheria Airport is located 6 km from the city centre. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are available for transfer to the city.
Indian Airlines, Hotel Clarks Shiraz pre-recorded information Kheria Airport
Excursions Agra
Fatehpur Sikri: 38 km from Agra, was once the capital city of Akbar after the childless Mughal was blessed with a son with the blessings of the Sufi saint, Sheikh Salim Chisti, who lived here. The new capital came up in 1569. Though the juxtaposition of the buildings seems whimsical, they are thoughtfully planned, imparting an atmosphere of playful brilliance. Towering walls on three sides surround the rectangular-shaped city, accessible through nine gates, and an artificial lake is located on the west. Credit for preserving the monuments goes to Lord Curzon. These protected monuments and the city's environs are
