Agra

If you are to visit the capital city, then you will obviously be going to plan a trip to Agra which is about 200 km from New Delhi. Better known as the City of Taj, Agra, is historically renowned as it was the capital for the early Mughal emperors. The Mughals with their exquisite architecture and workmanship, developed and decorated this city.

The Taj Mahal included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, is actually a mausoleum of Mumtaz Mahal - wife of the emperor Shah Jahan. The white marble structure is a delightful watch with its rich architectural patterns and designs that is believed to be an amalgamation of Persian and Mughal architecture. The structure was built between 1632 to 1653 by the architects Abdul Karim Mamur Khan, Makramat Khan and Ahmad Lahauri. The only asymmetry in its construction is the tomb of Shah Jahan, that was built after he died, beside the tomb of Mumtaz Mahal. When you visit the place don't forget to get a view of the river Yamuna from the Taj.. it's an amazing experience!

Only a few kilometres away is the majestic Agra Fort. The fort was originally built by the third Mughal ruler and undoubtedly the greatest - Akbar. At an early age of 14 Akbar took the throne of the Mughal dynasty when his father Hymayun died. He started building a tomb for his father in Delhi, and on the banks of river Yamuna started to build a massive fort using red sandstone. Construction was started in 1565, which has influences of Persian and Hindu architectural styles, and many buildings were added in its premises and was finally completed in 1571.

The unadulterated Islamic architectural style can be seen in the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah. Originally known as Mirza Ghiyaz-ud-Din, Itmad-ud-Daulah was one of the ministers in Akbar's court and became Wazir during the times of Jahangir. He was a poor merchant who rose to prominence owing to his capability. The white marble screens and inlay work is surely going to mesmerize you.

The ceiling of one of the gates leading to the Taj Mahal

Agra Fort

Agra Fort

In between the road joining Delhi and Agra is Sikendra, the place which was used by Akbar to build a high walled beautiful garden and an edifice, and was later used by his son Jahangir for erecting a tomb for emperor Akbar.

Delhi.. dilwalon ka

New Delhi - the national capital city, is famous for its historical significance. It is believed that the ancient city of Indraprastha, the capital of the Pandavas of Mahabharat, is this. Delhi has always served as a capital city for almost all the kingdoms, dynasties and rulers who invaded, looted, rebuilt the city at different times. This shaped the city's structural features which is now an amalgamation of different cultural and structural influences.

Jantar Mantar

The Guptas, the Mughals, the British ruled the place, and their architectural marvels are what we see today as the historical places. During the British era, Calcutta (now Kolkata) was the capital, but due to its vulnerability owing to the location, the capital was shifted to Delhi in 1911 on the day of King George V's coronation durbar.

Reaching New Delhi by air or by rail, hire public tourist buses or any private car from the numerous choices available. Soak in the lively vibe of the city by visiting the local markets of Sarojini market, Chandni Chowk and Paharganj. The first attraction is the Red fort or Lal Quila built by the great Mughal ruler Shah Jahan was constructed between 1639 to 1648. The Diwan-i-Am, Diwan-i-Khas, The Peacock Throne, Naqqar Khana Moti masjid are bound to grab your attention. The Old Fort, at the back of the new one, is available for visit only on Mondays. In the evening, light and sound show is held within the premises of the fort. Timing of the show varies throughout the year, so when you plan collect information from the tour guides or Fort administrators.

Then there is this beautiful Bahai temple, called The Lotus Temple. Their faith is to belive in all religions, and anyone from any religion can come here and visit for a prayer. If you are an atheist, the absolute silence of the inner chamber, will definitely help in connecting with your conscience. A must-visit place; for the sheer grandness and beauty of the architecture.

Lotus Temple

The first marvel using red sandstone in the Indian subcontinent is to be seen in Humayun's tomb. As you reach there, you will drive past Feroz Shah Kotla stadium, Indira Gandhi stadium, Shakti Sthal. Pay a visit to Rajghat - the place where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated. Also, the tour would provide you with a view of Parliament house. Then administrative office areas, Rashtrapati bhavan. Then there is India Gate, that marks the victory of the Indian freedom fighters. Within the city is the largest Hindu temple located - the beautiful Akshardham Temple. Another temple that is famous is the Lakshmi Narayan temple or the Birla Temple. 

Qutub Complex

Then there is 72 metre high Qutub minar located a bit away from the city, built by Qutubuddin Aibak in 12th Century. The mystery of the Iron pillar within its premises still baffles the modern metallurgists. The pillar was constructed, during the Gupta period by Chandragupta Vikramaditya, that weighs 6 tonn, made of iron but does not rust.

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