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 attracts the largest number of tourists from all over
the world. Also within the city’s ambit lies Fatehpur Sikri,
virtually an expression 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.
Getting
there:
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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.
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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 (2 hrs.), Gwalior and Jhansi Taj Express
(2.5 hrs), Intercity Express (3.5 hrs) 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 connected to all other
parts of the country by express trains.
Agra Fort (for Jaipur) and
Agra Cantt Railway Stations are the Main entry points
of the city.
Taxis and auto-rikshaws are available
at the railway station for transfer to different parts
of the city.
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By Road:
for those driving from Delhi, the best route is by Mathura
Road via Faridabad (25 km), Palwal, Hodal, Kosi and
Mathura (145 km). There is a dual-carriageway national
highway for most of the Journey from Delhi to Mathura. |
Excursions
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 well-maintained by the Archaeological Survey
of India.
Fatehpur Sikri is linked by road to Agra
from where one can take a bus )ordinary / deluxe) or private
a/c and non-a/c taxis.
Firozabad: An industrial city, 44
km away, famous for its glassware such as bangles and chandeliers.
Entertainment
/ Sports
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 bairds.
River cruises for wildlife viewing, camping,
nature walks, clay pigeon whooting are some of the activities
offered. Part of the proceeds are donated to the Chambal
Conservation foundation. For details and bookings: Jarar
Estate, Jarar House, Mathura Road, Agra Ph: 523193.
Taj Nature Walk: The 70 hectares of forest
cover developed around the Taj Mahal, just 500 mt. From
the eastern gate, offers an excellent opportunity for an
outing amongst lush surrounding. The forest provides sanctuary
to a variety of avifauna and from the mounds one obtains
belightful views of the monuments.
Son-et-Iumiere: A sound-and-light
programme is held at the Agra fort highlighting the important
events in its history. Two one-hour shows are held every
evening, from 1900 hrs. (01-10-31-3) / 1915 hrs. (01/04-30/09)
in English and 2015 hrs. / 2030 hrs. in Hindi.
Golf: Golf course, Circuit House Campus,
Taj Road.
Fishing: At Sur Sarovar. Contact:
Executive Engineer (Tower Division), The Mall, Agra Cantt.
