Monday, December 12, 2011

Agra – A Hotspot for Cultural & Heritage Tourism in India

Agra, an ancient and historical city in Uttar Pradesh, is one of the most sought after tourist destinations in India. It is a much sought after place for cultural and heritage tourism in the country. There are many historical monuments, cultural sites and heritage places in this city which have made it a hotspot. A large number of domestic and international tourists come to this city to explore historical monuments, cultural sites, architectural sumptuousness and the exquisiteness of marbles. When you will ask people for a popular tourist destination in India, majority of people will suggest you firstly to visit Agra where India's star Taj Mahal city in India welcomes tourists.
Located on the banks of the River Yamuna, Agra was believed to be built in 1475. It had been found its place in even in the epic Mahabharata as Agraban (means paradise). As a much sought after tourist destination of India, Agra offers the tourists a wonderful opportunities to see massive and imposing structural monuments including three UNESCO World Heritage Sites - Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. Itmad-Ud-Daullah Tomb (the Baby Taj or Little Taj Mahal) and Dayal Bagh are also popular tourist sites in the city. In fact, it is the great haven for mughal art, culture and architecture. Thus the city has been a hotspot for cultural and heritage tourism in India.
The most popular attraction for tourism in Agra is Taj Mahal - the Symbol of Love. Built in graceful white marble it is India's star tourist attraction and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This magnificent white marble monument was constructed by mughal emperor Shah Jahan as a loving tribute to his most darling and third wife Mumtaz Mahal. Hence it is also called the Symbol of Love & Romance. The matchless beauty of Taj Mahal attracts a large number of domestic and international tourists each year. Visiting the Taj Mahal during full moonlight is a very delightful experience that will last in your memory for lifelong.
Agra Fort is one another remarkable monument in Agra which is visited by domestic and international tourists each year. The fort is known for its awesome architecture. There are many beautiful structures and buildings inside the fort complex that are visitors' attractions. Fatehpur Sikri is an abandoned town located at the distance of about 39 kms from Agra city. It was constructed by Mughal emperor Akbar as his capital. But soon the city was deserted due to scarcity of drinking water. Today this historical city has been a must visit site during Agra tour. Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid, Salim Chisti Tomb, Ibadat Khana, Panch Mahal, Birbal Mahal, Jodha Bai Palace, etc are key tourist attractions at Fatehpur Sikri.

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