Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal A monument of love. A symbol of eternal love. Taj Mahal, one of the most fabulous monuments in the world, history and time. Thronged by visitors year round, Taj Mahal is 200 km from Delhi. It was built by the fifth Mughal emperor Shahjahan, in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz. The monument is a perfect piece of architecture. It took 22 years, 41 million rupees, 50 kilos of gold and around 20,000 workers to complete this marvel of marble. Situated by the river Yamuna, Taj Mahal sits on a high red sandstone terrace, topped by marble terrace. It is flanked by four minarets. The jewel in-laid cenotaph of the empress lies within the dome. The entire mausoleum is decorated with inlaid design of flowers and calligraphy with semi precious stones like jasper and agate. One can take a train, either the Shatabdi or Taj Express.

Location: Tajganj, Agra

Timings: 6:00 am to 7:30 pm, The monument is closed on all Fridays.

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Agra Fort

Situated on the west bank of the Yamuna river and two km from Taj Mahal, the Agra fort was started by the Mughal emperor Akbar in 1565. The impressive red sandstone fort extends for about 2.5 km and is surrounded by a deep moat which was once filled with water of Yamuna. Though Akbar built it mainly as a military centre, it was under Shahjahan's rule that the fort became more of a mini city. Of the many gates, the only one open to public is the Amar Singh gate, which leads into the fort. Immediately on the right is the Jahangiri Mahal.

The other impressive monuments within the fort are the Diwan-i-Khas, where the emperor met the dignitaries, the Diwan-i-Aam, Nagina Masjid (built by Shahjahan for his harem) and the Moti Masjid. Towards the northeast of the fort is the Musamman Burj, where Shahjahan was imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb.




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Mathura

Mathura is the birthplace of the world's popular deity, Lord Krishna. With a history that traces itself to the beginnings of world trade, Mathura is one of the most ancient cities of India. It is situated on the banks of the Yamuna, in Uttar Pradesh, and is one of the most important pilgrimage centers in India. Mathura is famous for the Krishnajanmabhumi Mandir, Vishram Ghat and Sati Burj. It is believed that Lord Krishna rested at Vishram Ghat after killing the tyrant Kamsa.

Evenings at the Vishram Ghat are generally a very beautiful sight with hundreds of diyas floating on the river. The Ghats offer very picturesque sights with long flight of stairs leading to the river's edge. You can find many pilgrims bathing in the river and from a distance you can see the temple spires silhouetted against the sky.

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Fatehpur Sikri

Fatehpur Sikri was built by the Mughal emperor Akbar in 1571 in honour of the Sufi saint, Sheikh Salim Chisti. It was the Mughal capital for 14 years after which it was abandoned, probably due to the lack of water. The capital is amazingly beautiful with its palaces and it reflects the architectural style Akbar patronised. Even to this day, the entrance to the fort is through the road that Akbar built. The road leads to the Buland Darwaza, a huge 54 metres gateway. It later inspired other lofty gates. Today young daredevils jump from its ruins into the deep tank to earn money from the tourists.

Other inspiring monuments in Fatehpur Sikri are the Hiran Minar, that Akbar built in memory of his favourite elephant, Tomb of Sheikh Salim Chishti, Birbal's House and the Diwan-i-Khas.

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