Arrival
By now you have become familiar to the routine ... you arrive in a place, we receive you warmly etc. True, yet you must have noticed that the places are different each time ... each more exciting than the previous one. Today is the turn of Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri sightseeing ... so fasten your seat belts.

Agra
Even if you declare the city of Agra as a virtual capital of the tourism industry in India, we don't think anybody is going to contest your declaration. The Taj Mahal of Agra has acquired a legendary stature among monuments. Agra was the capital of Lodhi ruler Sikandar Lodhi for some time in the sixteenth century. The city of Agra changed hands later on and went into Mughal control. That was the time when some amazing monuments of the human history came up in Agra.

There are three heritage monuments in Agra alone and this fact alone makes Agra a force to reckon with in the tourism world. These three monuments are the following – Taj Mahal, Red Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. It's difficult for any other city to match the heritage and history of Agra.
Agra Attractions
Taj Mahal - You are in no hurry, it's not that you should be as it takes just one and half hours to reach Delhi from Agra by an express train. Take your time to have a close look at the Taj. This well preserved architectural marvel deserves this kind of attention from you. There are monuments galore in India and it is quite a feat on the part of Taj Mahal to stand out in a crowd of monuments. Situated on the banks of river Yamuna, the Taj Mahal presents an awesome sight that dazzles the onlookers.

Agra Fort - The construction of the Agra Fort was started by Emperor Akbar and was continued by the later generations. Many of the Akbar's creation by within the Agra Fort were later replaced by the creations of Shahjahan which were made of marble. The structures within the fort that will attract your attention are Jehangir Mahal, Jodha Bai's Palace, Anguri Bagh etc.

Itmad-Ud-Daula - The tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah was built by Noor Jehan in the memory of her father. Her mother's cenotaph is also built here. The structure here is also often referred to as Baby Taj.

Chini Ka Rauza - The Chini ka Rauza is famous for its liberal use of carvings and decorations and that's the reason it is called Chini Ka Rauza. The structure is the mausoleum of Mulla Shukrulla Shirazi who was the prime minister of Shahjahan and this monument was built by himself. The plan of the main tomb of Chini ka rauza is kept simple and grandeur has been avoided while constructing this monument.

Fatehpur Sikri - Fatehpur Sikri is a complete city built in red sandstone and is located only 37 km away from the heritage city Agra. The Mughal Emperor Akbar built this city but he was forced to abandon this place because of scarcity of water. The Archaeological Department has worked hard on it which shows in the condition of this well preserved city.

Fatehpur Sikri Attractions
Diwan-e-Aam - The Diwan-e-Aam is the place which was generally used for celebrations and mass prayers. The emperor's throne with the pavilion is situated on the western side of it.

Diwan-e-Khas - The Diwan-e-Khas was used as the hall of private audience. It is believed that one chamber was used for important meetings in which emperor Akbar used to sit on the throne whereas the ministers would sit in the four corners.

Buland Darwaza - The grand victory of Emperor Akbar over Deccan was celebrated by building the huge gate called Buland Darwaza.

Departure
The tour is about to end now as you are through with the tour of historical cities of Agra and Fatehpur Sikri. You are meeting the other tourists knowing fully well that you'll meet again only if the fate decides so otherwise it's difficult. You board the train in Agra to leave for Delhi after lunch. You arrive at Safdarjung Station of Delhi at 1800 hours.

As you proceed for your onward destinations, our best wishes are with you and we expect that you'll give us a chance to serve you again.