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Best Landmarks in Agra

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Magnificent, stunning, bewitching, sublime – words fail to describe this exalted labor of love that stands on the southern bank of the Yamuna river. One of the most astounding examples of Mughal architecture, the Taj Mahal is swathed in immaculate, ivory-white glory, a resplendent bulwark of precision and symmetry. Constructed by the grief-stricken emperor Shah Jahan after the death of his beloved consort, it's hard to believe that the gigantic edifice is actually a mausoleum that houses both of their tombs. The iconic structure has been constructed entirely out of marble and features outstanding artwork, including the stunning marble inlay work that is interwoven with precious and semi-precious stones. Calligraphic inscriptions from the Holy Quran surround the beautiful vaulted archways. The edifice, flanked by four pillars, has been constructed in perfect symmetry and appears identical from all the sides. At the absolute center of the monument lies the cenotaph of Mumtaz Mahal and beside hers, emperor Shah Jahan's, which was added later. The edifice was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983 and is one of the most recognized monuments worldwide.

Established in 1848, the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception is one of the oldest cathedrals in Agra and is the seat of Agra's Roman Catholic Archdiocese. The bright church building with its regal facade was designed by Rev. Fr. Bonaventure, an Italian architect. Though the church sustained significant damage during the freedom struggle in 1857, it has been restored to it's former glory.

Located at the heart of the abode of Lord Krishna, the Sri Krishna Balaram Mandir is one of the finest temples made by the International Society For Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) movement. This magnificent white palatial temple complex was built in 1975 and was inaugurated by the founder of ISKCON, Swami Srila Prabhupada, whose samadhi (deep meditative sleep which often refers to the tomb of Hindu saints) lies in front of the temple. The complex houses the deities of Sri Krishna Balaram, Sri Lalita Devi, Sri Radha Shyamasundar, Sri Sri Gaura Nitai and Vishakha Devi. Apart from this, the temple also offers accommodation as well as prasadam (food offering to the deity) for the visitors of the temple. Open on all days, the temple is one of the main centers for worship in Vrindavan.

A feature common to the forts built by Mughals, is the Diwan-E-Khas, which literally means hall of private audience. The one at the Agra Fort is a sterling edifice replete with symmetrical marble arches and magnificent artwork within. The hall was used exclusively for meeting special dignitaries as well as receiving royal visitors. A symbol of the Mughal royalty, influence and opulence, the Diwan-E-Khas is a very significant part of the fort.

Often named in the same breath as the Taj Mahal, this landmark structure is fortified by 21-meter (70-feet) high walls, part of which skirts the river Yamuna. The Agra Fort gained prominence during the reign of Emperor Akbar and Shah Jahan. The fort's complex gives a great view of the majestic Jahangiri Mahal, dwarfing everything else surrounding the palace. The smooth contours of the Taj Mahal are hard to be missed from the Khas Mahal and Musamman Burj, that is only if you can take your eyes off the splendid polished color stones and gems that beautify the structures. Diwan-i-Khas, Diwan-i- Aam, Anguri Bagh and Machhi Bhavan are other historically important structures that are also the holders of the Mughal legacy. As a part of it is occupied by the Indian Army, entry to certain parts of the fort is restricted which thereby cuts the chance for visitors to view the magnificent Delhi Gate and the iconic Moti Masjid. If the white marble wonder is the royal symbol of an emperor's love for his wife, then the Agra Fort surely lives up to its status of a royal fortress. Built in such gigantic proportions, it is practically impossible to capture the fort in a frame from any one side.

Few structures in Agra can match up to the Taj Mahal in beauty and splendor. The tomb of I'timad-Ud-Daulah counts as one of them. Built between 1622 and 1628, the beautiful tomb was commissioned by Emperor Jahangir's wife, Nur Jahan in memory of her father Mirza Ghiyas Beg. The title I'timad-Ud-Daulah, meaning pillar of the state, was given to him for his exceptional services to the state. The magnificent tomb is one of the first Mughal monuments to be constructed entirely from white marble and is one of the hallmarks of the change in Mughal trend of using white marble instead of red sandstone. The tomb sits in the middle of a Mughal garden flanked by ornamental gates on all sides. Sterling floral inlay artwork adorns the structure. A marked difference between the artwork on this tomb and that of the Taj Mahal is the high amount of geometrical and meaty inlay work with Iranian influences as against the delicate floral patterns on the Taj. The structure, also known as the Baby Taj and considered as a pre-cursor to the Taj Mahal, is a monument of immense beauty and a must-visit site.

A colossal gate greets you as you enter the Taj Mahal complex. But it's not just the gargantuan proportions that set the eye-catching Great Gate also known as Darwaza-i-Rauza apart from the others. The stunning archways and the intricate floral inlay artwork and calligraphy on it, are a perfect embodiment of the legendary Mughal Architecture. Dwarfing almost everything in sight, this predominantly marble structure sets the perfect tone for what you're going to see next; the Taj Mahal.

One of the most prominent structures of Agra Fort, the Jahangiri Mahal lies in the eastern part of the mammoth complex and is among the first buildings you would come across while on a tour of the fort. Built by Emperor Akbar for his son Jahangir (from which it derives its name), its primary function was to serve as a residence of the Rajput wives of Emperor Akbar. A splendid red sandstone structure, the building combines decorative features associated with Hindu, Islamic and Christian religions, depicting Emperor Akbar's liberal reign. The palace is marked by a marvelously arched gateway, with the interior of the palace comprising a courtyard, intricately carved pillars and cross beams; all of which are examples of Rajasthani architecture belonging to the early 16th Century. Also one of the intricately designed palaces of the Mughal era, the sight of the Jahangiri Mahal from the fort's entry point is truly majestic.

Located in Dayal Bagh, Soamibagh is a memorial to Shiv Dayal Singh, founder of the Radhasoami faith. Made of marble, the monument is aesthetically stunning and interspersed with elements from Hindu, Roman as well as Islamic architecture. Construction of the building began in 1904, and has been in progress for more than a 100 years. Innumerable faithfuls visit this beautiful monument on a daily basis. A wonder in white, Soamibagh, apart from its religious significance, is also visited by those who wish to admire its immaculate architecture.

Panch Mahal is a beautiful five-story structure located to the south of Diwan-i-Khass. The sterling building is markedly different from other structures within the complex by virtue of it being built without walls and entirely on columns. This kind of construction allowed air to pass freely through the building providing welcome respite from the scorching heat during summers. The palace is believed to have been used as a recreational watch-tower by the royal ladies.

Surrounded by a number of temples and holy shrines, Vishram Ghat is one of the most famous ghats along River Yamuna. The legend associated with it suggests that the ghat was the resting place of Lord Krishna after he killed King Kansa in a battle. A series of steps lead the devotees to the river, which is where 'aarti' (Hindu religious ritual) is performed every evening. Devotees wait for their turn to take a dip into the river whereas young locals are often found to be gleefully playing in it. The best way to view the ghat is from a boat where you can take in the view of the glittering steps on which the rituals are performed.

Also known as the Pearl Mosque, Moti Masjid was the royal mosque built for the use of court members as well as royalty. True to its name, this pearly white edifice has a fascinating charm to it. The three marble domes on the roof complete the architectural splendor of the building. The fairly large mosque is one of the highlights of the Agra fort and should not be missed.

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