Agra

Agra is a city located in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is most famous for being home to the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other than the Taj Mahal, Agra is also known for its rich history, culture, and architecture, with several other UNESCO World Heritage sites and monuments such as:

1. Agra Fort: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the most important Mughal forts in India. It was built by the Mughal emperor Akbar in the 16th century and is known for its beautiful palaces, halls, and gardens.

2. Itimad-ud-Daulah's tomb: This mausoleum, also known as the "Baby Taj", is considered as a precursor of the Taj Mahal, and it's known for its intricate carvings, inlaid marble work and its location on the banks of the Yamuna River.

3. Fatehpur Sikri: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a historic city built by the Mughal emperor Akbar in the 16th century. It's known for its well-preserved palaces, courtyards, and mosque.

4. Mehtab Bagh: This is a Mughal garden complex located on the opposite side of the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal and offers a beautiful view of the monument.

5. Dayal Bagh Temple: This is a temple that is still under construction and is expected to be completed in 2027, it's a beautiful example of the marble work and frescoes of the region.

Agra is also famous for its traditional Indian sweets, such as Petha and Rasgulla, and for its leather goods and handicrafts.

The above list is not exhaustive, and there are many more beautiful places to visit in Agra. It's always a good idea to research and plan your visit in advance to make the most of your trip.

How to reach Agra

There are several ways to reach Agra:

1. By Air: The nearest airport to Agra is the Kheria Airport, which is located about 8 kilometers from the city. From there you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Agra. Agra also has an international airport, but it's less connected than the domestic one.

2. By Train: Agra is well connected to major cities in India by train. The city has three major railway stations: Agra Cantt, Agra Fort, and Raja-ki-Mandi. There are many trains that run to Agra from cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Mumbai.

3. By Bus: Agra is well connected by road to other major cities in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) and private operators operate regular bus services to Agra from cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Lucknow.

4. By Car: Agra is well connected to other major cities in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan through National and State Highways. You can rent a car or drive your own vehicle to reach Agra.

The best way to reach Agra depends on your location, budget, and time availability. You can choose the best option that suits your needs

Best time to visit Agra

The best time to visit Agra depends on your personal preferences and the kind of experience you are looking for. Here are a few things to consider:

1. Winter season (October to March): The weather is pleasant during this time, making it the best time to explore the city, visit the monuments and enjoy outdoor activities. The temperature during this time ranges from 10-20°C.

2. Summer season (April to June): The temperature during this time can get quite hot, with temperatures rising up to 45°C. If you are planning to visit during this time, it is best to avoid outdoor activities during the day and explore the city in the early morning or late evening.

3. Monsoon season (July to September): Agra receives moderate rainfall, and the monsoon season is not the ideal time to visit the city as the monuments may be closed during this time.

Above are general guidelines and the actual weather conditions may vary from year to year. It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly before your trip. In general, the best time to visit Agra is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the monuments are at their best.

Best hotels in Agra

Agra offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best hotels in Agra:

1. The Oberoi Amarvilas: This hotel is located in close proximity to the Taj Mahal and offers luxurious accommodation with views of the monument from its rooms and suites. The hotel also features a spa, a fitness center, and several dining options.

2. ITC Mughal: This hotel is a luxurious 5-star hotel which is also located near the Taj Mahal and features a spa, a fitness center, and several dining options.

3. The Gateway Hotel Fatehabad Road: This hotel is located near the Taj Mahal and offers comfortable accommodation with a fitness center, a spa, and several dining options.

4. The Taj View Hotel: This hotel is located near the Taj Mahal and offers comfortable accommodation with a restaurant, a fitness center and a rooftop terrace with views of the Taj Mahal.

5. The Howard Plaza The Fern: This hotel is located near the Taj Mahal and offers comfortable accommodation with a fitness center, a spa and several dining options.

the above list is not exhaustive and there are many more good hotels in Agra. The best way to find a hotel that suits your budget and preferences is to do some research online and read reviews from other travelers.