Agra have every reason to be a haven of most sort after tourist hot-spot. Ancient forts, monuments, tombs remind you of the rich history and architecture of the past. Agra is an eight hour drive from Delhi.Let’s take a quick look at the archaeological wonders.

Taj Mahal, Epitome Of Love: This masterpiece needs no introduction. A white marble monument built under the patronage of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal is one among the Seven Wonders of the World. Placed on the banks of Yamuna, Taj Mahal is a must see for every tourist.

Th planning, layout, intricate carvings are just so perfect and in tune with your likes. Huge stretches of gardens with fountains and flowers are housed in the monument complex. The inscription on the marble wall appear to increase in size as you continue watching it from bottom to above. Might be an optical illusion, but the finest craftsmanship will is bound to leave you breathless.

Plan your visit to Taj on a moonlit evening. The reflection of the Taj on Yamuna and surrounding fountains offer a spectacular view, exclusive enough to serve a lifetime.

Agra Fort: Next to Taj Mahal stands a red sandstone structure, The Agra Fort. Another brilliant piece of Mughal architecture. The fort homes huge halls and palace. Make your way to Jahangir palace, which was a permanent house for women folk. Marble carved Anguri Bagh and the Khas Mahal, depicts another wonder of Shah Jahan era. Next to these structures lie Mina Masjid and shimmering Sheesh Mahal (hall of mirrors). Going by history, the emperor divided his court into halls to address administrative issues — Diwan-i-Khas was meant for special private audience while Diwan-i-Am saw public audience. The Fort is now a World Heritage Site.

Fatehpur Sikri: Emperor Akbar built the the city of Fatehpur was served as the capital of Mughal empite for 10 years.The monument was built in the memory of Sufi saint Salim Chishti. Several courts and palaces are spotted in the centre of the fort city. The emperor was guided by Persian architects to plan the layout of this structure, which also houses a mosque.
Fatehpur Sikri is a World Heritage Site.

Chini-Ka-Rauza: This tomb is also a handiwork of Persian architects of Mughal era. Vibrant enamel tiles and inscriptions on wall gives you a subtle view of Mughal architecture. The interiors of the tomb represents the huge halls of the bygone dynasty. The monument was constructed in the memory of Afzal Kan, a Persian port and prime minister at Akbar’s court.

Itmad-ud-Daula: Better known as mini Taj, this marble memorial was built by Noor Jahan to commemorate her father Ghiyath Beg’s death. Akbar honoured him will the title of Itimad-ud-Daula (Pillar of the State). Persian paintings are seen decorating the walls of the monument. Precious stones are also spotted on the walls, which have been given shapes of meandering waterways and trees.

Sikandra: Akbar’s tomb is housed here. According to history, it is said Akbar started to build his tomb, after having planned the design and layout. His Jahangir gave it a final shape after Akbar’s death. The five storied tomb is carved out of marble and red sandstone.

Jama Masjid: The Jama Masjid built inside Fatehpur Sikri is one of the largest mosques. It is said, the mosque can house more than 20,000 devotees at a time. The tomb of royal ladies Zenana Rauza and a hall Jammat Khana are prominent structures inside the mosque.The masjid is built of red sandstone, but a few places were later built with marble. Buland Darwaza, a huge gate built at the entrance of the mosque is one of the biggest gates in India.

Ram Bagh: A Mughal Garden of Mughal era built by Emperor Babur is placed close to The Taj Mahal. The garden is marked by colorful floral decor, canals and terraces with cascading fountains.

Calling all architects, take a look at the perfect blend of Indian craftsmanship with Persian designs which stuns people around the world. A lot of luxury hotels in India are also built on the line of these monuments, with finely carved interiors representing Mughal architecture.

If you are a historian in the making, you must have gone through the achievements of these rulers. Come and explore their love for art in these monuments. Short trip from Delhi will be perfect for your date with history.