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.