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One of India’s oldest cities straddled along the holy Yamuna river, Agra has the royal touch! Popularly known as the home of the world-famous Taj Mahal, the city has a lot more to offer. With its cultural heritage, fascinating history and majestic architecture, Agra is full of spectacles. A major destination for travellers all over the world, the city is worth the hype. From forts and mausoleums to gurudwaras and churches, there is a lot more to Agra than you might be aware of.
Beyond the Taj Mahal, here are 7 historical monuments worth visiting in Agra
1. Panch Mahal
Infused with royal charm, Panch Mahal is a rectangular, five-storey architectural monument situated at Fatehpur Sikri. At a distance of 40 km from Agra, Panch Mahal was mainly used for entertainment and recreational purposes. Also called badgir or the wind tower, each of the pavilions of Panch Mahal was used to host private functions and for state affairs. Commissioned by Akbar, the third Mughal Emperor, the five-level palace has been the place for several artists to showcase their art and performances.
Location: Fatehpur Sikri Fort
Timing: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
Entry fee: Rs 10 (for Indians and citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries), Rs 250 (for foreigners). Free Entry for children up to age 15
2. Mariam’s Tomb
Built by Jahangir, Mariam’s Tomb is an eminent historical site in Agra. The structure is composed of white marble and red sandstone, filled with elaborate designs. It is a dome-shaped structure, almost similar to a delicate piece of artwork. Commonly known as Jodha Bai tomb, the place offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere. It is situated only a kilometre away, to the west of Akbar’s tomb.
Location: Mathura Delhi Highway, Near Delhi Highway, Sikandra, Agra
Timing: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
Entry fee: Rs 5 (for Indians and citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries), Rs 100 (for foreigners)
3. Anguri Bagh
One of the major highlights of Agra, Angoori Bagh is a charbagh-styled garden, situated within the premises of Khas Mahal in Agra Fort. It is a beautiful garden situated in front of the main palace. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, Angoori Bagh means garden of grapes, because it was originally famous for the cultivation and harvesting of creepers of grapes. The surrounding palace is composed of white marble, and Angoori Bagh is a charming spot to be at.
Location: Agra Fort
Timing: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
Entry fee: No entry fee (Agra Fort entry fee applicable- Rs 40 for Indians, Rs 550 for foreigners)
4. Akbar’s Tomb
Situated at Sikandra, Akbar’s Tomb represents one of the most exquisite assimilations of various architectural designs and styles. The building which was begun by Akbar himself, and completed by his son Jahangir serves as a brilliant blend of Islamic, Rajasthani and Gujarati styles. The monument is built of red sandstone and inlaid with white, yellow and blue geometric and floral patterns. It is one of the most beautiful Mughal monuments to date.
Location: Tomb of Akbar The Great Area, Sikandra, Agra
Timing: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
Entry fee: Rs 15 (for Indians), Rs 110 (for foreigners)
5. Gurudwara Guru Ka Taal
A place of pilgrimage for the Sikhs, Gurudwara Guru Ka Taal is an intriguing place to visit. Dedicated to the ninth Guru, this gurudwara has a divine atmosphere. It is a large and clean place of worship which welcomes people of all faiths, observing a large tourist convergence.
Location: Delhi-Chennai Highway, Maharishi Puram Colony, Agra
Timing: Open 24 hours
Entry fee: No entry fee
6. Chhatri of Raja Jaswant Singh
Situated along the banks of the Yamuna River, the Chhatri is a dome-shaped cenotaph. It represents a unique architecture encompassing Mughal and Hindu styles. The tomb was built by Raja Jaswant Singh during the Mughal era and is dedicated to Rani Hada. It portrays intricate detailing in its design. There is an expansive garden and a burial chamber, however, due to age certain areas of the monument are in a dilapidated condition.
Location: Kailash Nagar, Rajwara, Kamla Nagar, Agra
Timing: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm
Entry fee: No entry fee
7. St George’s Cathedral
Not only does Agra represent a rich Mughal heritage, but the historical sites also date back to the colonial era. St George’s Cathedral is a beautiful protestant church situated at the cantonment area of Agra. As a place of worship, the church displays an exquisite style of architecture. It commemorates the British soldiers who lost their lives while serving the nation. With a calm and peaceful atmosphere, this church is among the lesser-known places to visit while in Agra.
Location: Station Road, Agra Cantonment, Agra
Timing: 6:00 am- 8:00 pm
Entry fee: No entry fee
Photo: Shutterstock