Duration: Same Day
Overview:
Agra is renowned for its iconic Mughal-era buildings, most notably the majestic Taj Mahal. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal is a white marble mausoleum built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Its stunning architecture and intricate marble inlay work, leave the visitors in awe.
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Agra Fort is a massive red sandstone fort complex that served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors until 1638. The fort offers panoramic views of the Taj Mahal from various vantage points.
Itmad-ud-Daulah Tomb, often referred to as the "Baby Taj," is an exquisite tomb considered as precursor to the Taj Mahal and is known for its intricate marble lattice work. Situated across the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal, Mehtab Bagh offers stunning views of the monument and is a popular spot for photographers.
Agra is known for its bustling markets, where you can shop for handicrafts, leather goods, and marble souvenirs. Some popular markets include Kinari Bazaar, Sadar Bazaar, and Subhash Bazaar. The city is also famous for its delicious food, especially its Mughlai cuisine. Don't miss trying local delicacies like petha and dalmoth.
Duration: Same Day
Overview:
Sikandra is a historic town located just outside the city of Agra, renowned for the magnificent tomb of Emperor Akbar. The tomb, known as Sikandra Fort or Sikandra Palace, is a stunning example of Mughal architecture, blending elements of Hindu, Islamic, and Persian styles. It has a vast garden complex, typical of Mughal mausoleums, and is constructed of red sandstone and marble, showcasing intricate carvings and inlay work. The complex offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Agra.
Approximately an hour drive from Sikandra is Fatehpur Sikri, a fascinating historical city built by Emperor Akbar in the late 16th century. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it served as the capital of the Mughal Empire for a short period before being abandoned due to water scarcity.
The city is renowned for its architectural grandeur, with well-preserved palaces, mosques, and courtyards that reflect the creativity and vision of the Mughal architects. One of the most iconic structures in Fatehpur Sikri is the Buland Darwaza, or "Gate of Victory," a massive gateway that serves as the entrance to the city.
Other notable attractions in Fatehpur Sikri include the Jama Masjid, a stunning mosque known for its intricate design and grandeur, and the Tomb of Salim Chishti, a beautiful white marble mausoleum dedicated to the Sufi saint Salim Chishti.
Distance : 100 Kms / Approx 2.5 Hrs one way
Overview:
Keoladeo National Park, formerly known as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, is a renowned avifauna sanctuary in Rajasthan, India. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to over 370 species of birds, making it one of the most popular bird-watching destinations in the world.
The park is named after the Keoladeo temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is located at the center of the sanctuary. Apart from being a paradise for bird watchers, the park also hosts a variety of other wildlife, including deer, wild boar, and numerous species of reptiles. The best time to visit the Keoladeo National Park is during the winter months, from October to February, when the park is teeming with migratory birds from as far away as Siberia and Central Asia.
Distance : 75 Kms/ Approx 2.5 Hrs one way
Overview:
Mathura, widely considered to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna, is steeped in mythology and history, making it a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus. One of the most famous attractions in Mathura is the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi temple, believed to be the exact birthplace of Lord Krishna. The temple complex also houses several other shrines and is a hub of religious activity, especially during festivals like Janmashtami, the birthday of Lord Krishna.
One of the most enchanting rituals that take place at Vishram Ghat is the evening aarti, a devotional ceremony that is performed as an offering to the river.
About an half hour drive from here is Vrindavan, a town closely associated with the childhood and youth of Lord Krishna. The town is dotted with temples, ashrams, and sacred groves, making it a major pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Krishna.
One of the most famous temples in Vrindavan is the Banke Bihari Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna in his Banke Bihari form. The temple is known for its unique image of Lord Krishna, which is said to have appeared miraculously. The famous ISKCON temple here is not only a place of worship but also a center for spiritual learning and cultural activities.
Duration – 02 (N)/ 03 (D) | Distance : 240 Kms/ Approx 06 Hrs
Overview:
Gwalior and Orchha are the destinations that offer a glimpse into India's rich history and architectural heritage, making them must-visit places for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike.
Gwalior is known for its majestic hilltop fort, the Gwalior Fort, which offers panoramic views of the city and houses several historic palaces and temples. One of the highlights of Gwalior is the Jai Vilas Palace, a 19th-century palace known for its blend of European, Indian, and Islamic architectural styles. The palace also houses the Scindia Museum, which showcases a collection of artifacts, including weapons, paintings, and royal memorabilia.
The city is also known for its rich musical heritage, particularly for being the birthplace of the legendary musician Tansen. The city hosts the annual Tansen Music Festival, where musicians from around the country come to pay homage to this musical genius.
Approximately 03 Hrs drive from Gwalior is Orchha, a small town in Madhya Pradesh, known for its stunning medieval architecture and tranquil surroundings. The town is home to the Orchha Fort complex, which includes several palaces, temples, and cenotaphs, all built by the Bundela Rajput rulers in the 16th century. Most notable attractions in Orchha are Jahangir Mahal, the Chaturbhuj Temple, and the Ram Raja Temple.
Duration: 05 (N)/ 06 (D) | By Train or Flight
Overview:
In proximity to Agra are the spiritual trio cities of Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Allahabad. The cities that hold immense religious, cultural, and historical significance in India, making them popular destinations for pilgrims and tourists alike.
Ayodhya, is an ancient city revered as the birthplace of Lord Rama, a major deity in Hinduism. The city is known for its many temples, including the famous Ram Janmabhoomi temple, believed to be the exact birthplace of Lord Rama.
Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Benaras, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and is considered one of the holiest cities in Hinduism. Located on the banks of the river Ganges, Varanasi is known for its ghats, or riverside steps, where pilgrims perform rituals and ceremonies.
Varanasi is also known for its temples, including the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The city is also famous for its silk weaving industry, producing some of the finest silk sarees in India.
Allahabad, recently renamed Prayagraj, is a city located at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and mythical Sarasvati rivers. The city is known for its religious and cultural significance, especially during the Kumbh Mela, a major Hindu pilgrimage that takes place every 12 years and is attended by millions of devotees.
Not just the spirituality, the cities also attract the crowd for its lip-smacking street food and rich textile.
Duration – 01 (N)/ 02 (D) | Distance : 250 Kms/ Approx. 05 Hrs
Overview:
Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is a city known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. Popularly known as the "Pink City" due to the color of its buildings, Jaipur is a fascinating blend of old-world charm and modernity.
The city is home to several historic landmarks, including the iconic Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds, with its intricate latticework facades. The City Palace complex, a magnificent blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture, is another must-visit attraction. Visitors can also explore the majestic Amber Fort, located just outside the city, and enjoy an elephant ride up to the fort.
Jaipur is also famous for its bustling bazaars, where you can shop for colorful textiles, handicrafts, and jewelry. The city's cuisine is a treat for food lovers, with its delicious Rajasthani dishes and local sweets.
Jaipur offers a unique and unforgettable experience, with its vibrant culture, rich history, and warm hospitality leaving a lasting impression on visitors.
Duration – 02 (N)/ 03 (D) | Distance : 310 Kms/ Approx 06 Hrs
Overview:
Ranthambore National Park is one of the largest national parks in northern India, renowned for its diverse wildlife, particularly its population of Bengal tigers.The park is characterized by its rocky terrain, dotted with lakes, rivers, and lush greenery, providing a picturesque backdrop for wildlife sightings. Apart from tigers, Ranthambore is home to a variety of other wildlife species, including leopards, sloth bears, sambar deer, and a wide range of bird species.
One of the highlights of visiting Ranthambore is the opportunity to go on safari drives, where you can explore the park's varied landscapes and observe its wildlife in their natural habitat. The park is divided into several zones, each offering a unique wildlife experience.
Apart from wildlife safaris, Ranthambore also boasts a rich history, with several ancient ruins and landmarks scattered throughout the park. The Ranthambore Fort, dating back to the 10th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
