India is a land of rich cultural heritage, with various monuments and landmarks that stand testament to the country's vibrant history. Among these, the Taj Mahal is undoubtedly the most iconic and sought-after destination for tourists and history buffs alike. Located in the city of Agra, the Taj Mahal is a stunning mausoleum that was built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. In this article, we will explore the Taj Mahal heritage tour in Agra, India, along with other prominent monuments in the region.   

Overview of Taj Mahal Heritage Tour Agra   

The Taj Mahal heritage tour in Agra is a popular package that includes a visit to the Taj Mahal, along with other prominent landmarks in the city. The tour typically starts with a visit to the Taj Mahal, where visitors can marvel at the stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and serene surroundings. The tour also includes a visit to the Agra Fort, which was also built by the Mughals and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Other prominent landmarks that are included in the tour are the Tomb of Akbar the Great, the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daula, and the Fatehpur Sikri, which was once the capital of the Mughal Empire.   

History of the Taj Mahal   

The Taj Mahal was built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who passed away during childbirth. The construction of the Taj Mahal took over 22 years and involved the efforts of over 20,000 workers. The monument is made entirely of white marble and is adorned with intricate carvings and precious stones. It is said that Shah Jahan was so enamored with the Taj Mahal that he ordered the hands of the architects and workers to be cut off so that they could never replicate the monument.   

Architecture of the Taj Mahal   

The Taj Mahal is a stunning example of Mughal architecture, which is a blend of Indian, Persian, and Islamic styles. The monument is built entirely of white marble and is adorned with intricate carvings and calligraphy. The central dome of the Taj Mahal is surrounded by four smaller domes and is flanked by four minarets. The interiors of the Taj Mahal are equally stunning, with intricate inlay work, carvings, and precious stones.   

Nearby places you also visit:- 

Agra Fort    

The Agra Fort is another prominent landmark in Agra and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The fort was built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in the 16th century and was later modified by his grandson Shah Jahan. The fort is made of red sandstone and is home to various structures such as the Jahangir Palace, Khas Mahal, and the Sheesh Mahal. Visitors can explore the fort and admire the stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.   

Tomb of Akbar the Great   

The Tomb of Akbar the Great is located in Sikandra, which is about 10 km from Agra. The tomb is the final resting place of the Mughal Emperor Akbar and is a stunning example of Mughal architecture. The monument is built of red sandstone and is adorned with intricate carvings and calligraphy. Visitors can explore the tomb and learn more about the life and legacy of Akbar the Great.   

Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daula    

Another prominent landmark in Agra is the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daula, which is also known as the "Baby Taj" due to its similarity to the Taj Mahal. The tomb was built in the 17th century and is the final resting place of Mirza Ghiyas Beg, who was the father-in-law of the Mughal Emperor Jahangir. The tomb is made of white marble and is adorned with intricate carvings and precious stones.   

Fatehpur Sikri   

Located about 40 km from Agra is the city of Fatehpur Sikri, which was once the capital of the Mughal Empire. The city was built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in the 16th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can explore the various structures in Fatehpur Sikri, such as the Buland Darwaza, Panch Mahal, and Diwan-i-Khas.   

Best Time to Visit Agra   

The best time to visit Agra is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. The summer months of April to June can be hot and humid, while the monsoon season from July to September can bring heavy rainfall.   

How to Reach Agra   

Agra is well connected to major cities in India by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, which is about 200 km from Agra. Agra also has its own airport, the Kheria Airport, which is about 13 km from the city center. Agra is also well connected by train, with regular trains from Delhi, Jaipur, and other major cities in India. The city is also well connected by road, with regular buses and taxis available from Delhi and other nearby cities.   

How to reach Taj Mahal heritage tour by train and nearest railway station?   

The Taj Mahal heritage tour in Agra can be easily reached by train, with regular trains from major cities in India. The nearest railway station to the Taj Mahal is the Agra Cantonment Railway Station, which is located about 6 km from the Taj Mahal. The railway station is well connected to major cities in India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai.   

Visitors can take a train from the Agra Cantonment Railway Station to reach other popular destinations in India, such as Jaipur, Delhi, and Mumbai. The railway station has several facilities, such as waiting rooms, food stalls, and ticket counters, making it convenient for travelers.   

Once visitors arrive at the railway station, they can hire a taxi or a rickshaw to reach the Taj Mahal. Visitors can also take a bus from the railway station to reach the Taj Mahal, with several bus services available from the Agra bus stand, which is located near the railway station.   

How to reach Taj Mahal heritage tour by road and nearest bus stand?   

FAQs   

What is the entry fee for the Taj Mahal?  

The entry fee for the Taj Mahal is INR 50 for Indian nationals and INR 1300 for foreign nationals.   

What is the best time to visit Agra?  

The best time to visit Agra is from October to March when the weather is pleasant.   

Can I visit the Taj Mahal at night?  

Yes, the Taj Mahal is open for night viewing on select days. Visitors need to book tickets in advance for night viewing.   

Is photography allowed inside the Taj Mahal?  

Photography is allowed inside the Taj Mahal, but visitors need to purchase a separate photography ticket.   

How far is the Taj Mahal from Delhi?  

The Taj Mahal is about 200 km from Delhi and can be reached by road, rail, and air.