by Irene Preklet

Created on: March 18, 2009

Agra, India is a stop in what is known as the Golden Triangle. Agra is about equal distance from Delhi and Jaipur, the other stops along the popular travel route.

At the heart of Agra and what draws tourists there by the thousands is perhaps one of the greatest monuments ever built in the name of love, the Taj Mahal. The massive white marble building with beautiful stone inlay sits on large grounds along the Yamuna River. It is an oasis in the daily hustle and bustle of every day life in what is a busy, loud, and dirty city.

Motorized vehicles are not allowed in the immediate area around the Taj Mahal to help limit the impact of pollution. You will have to walk a short distance to one of the entry gates and be prepared for a hard sell of souvenir vendors as you make your way there.

Before getting onto the grounds you will have to go through a security check. Some things are not allowed in, things like flashlights or food, but you can leave them in one of the free lockers, although be prepared to pay a tip as you try to get your stuff back.

Admission to the Taj Mahal is 750 rupees for foreigners which is about $15.00. You can walk around on your own or hire one of the many guides. Shoes are not allowed on the marble floors at the Taj Mahal, you can either check your shoes or get slip covers for them, again this is supposed to be a free service, but tips are appreciated.

One of the best things at the Taj Mahal is to just sit back, enjoy the beautiful architecture and the quietness of the grounds. It is the perfect place to people watch. Keep in mind the Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays.

Of course there is more to Agra than just the Taj Mahal. Another main tourist attraction is the massive Agra Fort. The grounds are huge, so make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. If you visit the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort on the same day you save 50 rupees on admission to the fort which will then cost you 250 rupees or about $5.00.

The red sandstone of Agra Fort is a big contrast to the white marble of the Taj Mahal. One of the best features of the fort is a magnificent river front view of the Taj. But the architecture of the fort is also impressive and within the fort walls you will tour many impressive buildings.

Other sites to see include Itmad-ud-Daulah's Mausoleum, Chini Ka Rauza which is a riverside tomb and Mehtab Bagh, a park with beautiful gardens and an impressive view of the Taj on the banks of the Yamuna River

If you feel like shopping Agra will not disappoint. You will

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>