Located in the heart of India, Agra is invariably included on every travellers itinerary. It is home to three generations of the extremely dynamic Mughal dynasty. Among the several legacies left behind by the Mughals, the Taj Mahal undoubtedly is India’s most enduring icon. The beauty of this story in marble will simply bowl you over! Adding to its charm are the several other structures and monuments that date back to centuries. While on your trip, include a visit to the red sandstone Agra Fort, the well-laid out gardens and the two most renowned tombs of Itmad-ud-Daula and Sikandra. There’s much to see here, so ideally we recommend you set aside two full days to soak in this fascinating history.

• Taj Mahal: Undoubtedly India’s definitive monument, the Taj Mahal needs little introduction. One of the Seven Wonders of the World, it was built by Shah Jahan for his beloved queen Mumtaz Mahal as a labor of love. It is graced by four minarets and a perfect dome, beneath which rests the tomb of Mumtaz Mahal. It’s not just the perfect symmetry in its design, but the exquisite carving that covers every inch of the marble. These intricately carved designs, mostly floral bouquets, are inlaid with precious stones. A peculiar feature – watch the calligraphy adorning the walls. They increase in size as you look up, creating an optical illusion of all letters being the same size. Another astounding feature is the filigree screens that surround the cenotaph carved out of a single piece of marble. It is believed that the Taj changes color depending on what time of the day it is. We recommend visiting it in the wee hours of the morning or in the evening when the sunset renders it an orange hue. The best time, though is on a full moon night when the entire structure is bathed in a silvery sheen, giving it an ethereal unforgettable appearance.

• Agra Fort: This World Heritage sight is located next to the Taj Mahal and is built in red sandstone. This crescent shaped fort is surrounded by ramparts of red sandstone and a deep moat on the outer wall. Within the fort are several interesting structures and buildings. Visit the Jahangiri Mahal, which housed the women of the palace. This palace has a stone pool before it, which as believed to have been filled with rose petals during Noor Jahan’s time. Adjacent to it is the Anguri Bagh and the Khas Mahal, which is strikingly another example of Shah Jahan’s designs in white marble. Also located within are the mirrored Sheesh Mahal and Mina Masjid or (Gem Mosque). Adjacent to it is Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), and beyond it is Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience), where the emperor addressed his subjects’ issues.

• Chini-Ka-Rauza: This Persian style tomb is an impressive masterpiece of glazed style décor and architecture. The Chini-ka-Rauza is covered with coloured enamel tiles and traces of paintings and Islamic calligraphy can also be seen. It is dedicated in memory of Afzal Khan, a Persian poet and Prime Minister in the court of Akbar.

• Itmad-ud-Daula: Also known as mini-Taj, this tomb was built by Nur Jahan for her father Mirza Ghiyath Beg, who was given the title ‘Itimad-ud-Daula’ (Pillar of the State). Constructed in marble, this monument marked a shift in Mughal architecture - from red sandstone to white marble. The entire structure is adorned with delicate motifs and typical Persian paintwork. The walls are encrusted with precious stones in the form of trees, wine bottles, cups and vases. The building also consists of a garden, which is interwoven by water courses and walkways.

• Fatehpur Sikri: Built by Emperor Akbar, the now-deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri was the capital of the Mughal Empire for nearly 10 years. Today, a Wild Heritage site, it houses within it some of the most magnificent buildings. Of particular interest would be the Diwan-i-Am, where the ruler met the public and the Diwan-i-Khas or the Hall of Private Audience, marked by its central pillar and vaulted brackets. The Panch Mahal is a five-storeyed palatial structure and the tallest in the compound. The Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India and has several aisles around a central courtyard. It houses within it thetomb of the Sufi saint, Sheikh Salim Chisti. The Masjid is decorated with inscriptions, geometric patterns and colored tiles. A distinguishing feature – watch the rows of chhatris over the main building.

• Ram Bagh: The oldest Mughal garden built by Babur, it is located close to the Taj Mahal. It is marked by pathways, canals and cascading water over terraces.

• Sikandra (Akbar’s Tomb): The city of Sikandra houses the tomb of Akbar. Legend has it that the construction and design of the tomb was started by Akbar himself, as subsequently completed by Jehangir. The tomb is made of five storeys, the first four built of red sandstone and the fifth with marble. The tomb also has several well-maintained gardens.

Agra is home to some excellent and most authentic Mughlai cuisine as well a wide variety of multi - cuisine restaurants and eateries. For some yummy Mughlai cuisine, head out to Navratan Restaurant. Malika Restaurant in Hotel ManSingh is a place to try out an endless variety of kebabs and tandoori food. For some non-greasy vegetarian fare, try out Zorba the Buddha and Dasaprakash. Some better dining options include Jhankar at Taj View, Peshawari at Mughal Sheraton and Mughal Room at Clarks Shiraz. Finally, don’t miss out on savouring a taste of Dalmoth (a savory) and Petha (a sweet made of white pumpkin).

Agra, known for its contemporary and fine arts traditions is an important center for handicrafts. Shopping in Agra is definitely an experience with several shopping areas and markets sprawled all across the city. Especially noted for its marble inlay work, leather goods, and zari embroidery, Sadar Bazaar and south of Taj Gang are popular shopping areas. You can also head out to The U.P State Emporium that offers a wide selection of handicrafts under one roof. Visit the Shilpagram, craft village on the eastern side of Taj Mahal which is a popular open-air emporium. No matter where you shop, remember to bargain!