Our government guide showed us, from outside the Taj Mahal, where you look across the Yamuna River to see the foundations for the second Taj Mahal that Shah Jahan intended to build, made out of black marble.
But unfortunately he used public money to pay for his wfe's mausoleum, and planned to do the same for his own. His son, Aurangzeb, became angry with the $$$ his dad was spending, and imprisoned him, before he could complete it. All there is to see is one domed tower (without any black marble overlay) and some foundation work.
Written Mar 14, 2004
That is a kid with a great future!
The "puppet man" --as he calls himself, but I think "puppet boy" would be more appropriate-- is less than 15 yrs old and already he is a great puppet player, great singer, great performer/actor, great merchant and a great liar!!!
I could tell he was trying hard to extract --in the most polite manner, I must admit-- some extra rupies from me, because I had already bought one of his puppets for 200 rupies without bargaining (big mistake, they cost around 40-50 in Delhi's Main Bazar)... When I asked him how old is he, he said without thinking: "Today is my bithday, I am turning 15... will you give me a birthday present?" What can I say?? He is a real character!
What really made me like this kid even more, was the fact that, without any obligation, after I had given him his "birthday present", he ran and made up a small rug elephant puppet and offered it to me as a gift. Nothing much but the gesture was very nice! Someone who knows how to give and not only how to take is a winner in my book!
His show takes place every day from 5-6:00 pm onwards at the Mughal Sheraton reception area.
Updated Dec 10, 2003
The tomb is of special interest because it looks much to the Taj Mahal, although a little bit smaller . It's worth visiting it .. Because it's quiet smaller than the Taj Mahal it's also known as Baby Taj. It was the first Mogul construction in marble and besides that also the first which made elaborate use of the pietra dura-technique as later with the Taj Mahal. From here you have also a nice view on the Taj Mahal.
Updated Aug 16, 2003
The forgotten city of India ! As from the beginning the waterprovision was poor and so people left this city!
The architecture is unique - a mixed of Moslim/Hindoe an Persian influence.
In the center of this village you will find a "Chess place" - the figures were at that time living ladies of the Harem - manipulated by Akbar himself.
Updated Aug 10, 2003
In front of every hotel in India, you find rickshaws. We hired one for an afternoon (less than 1 USD !!) to travel to some shops. Not the tourist-ones but the ones where local Indians go to buy there stuff. Better prices, good products and a smell of local commerce... Crowded places, dangerous traffic,... an experience not to forget !
Written Feb 25, 2003
Take a few minutes trip from Fatehpur Sikri to the Jami Masjid just north to see the 54-m Buland Darwaza gateway.
Written Feb 2, 2006
Just infront of the emperor's sleeping quarters is a pool with 4 walkways to a platform in the middle.
Written Feb 2, 2006
Ugly, sad face of India:
homeless family, 'picture for Rupees' children with blue, put out eyes.
Updated Dec 24, 2005
Fatehpur Sikri - about 40 km from Agra and on the way to Jaipur.
A deserted city builded in 1570 by the emperor Akbar and once Capital of the Mughals.
Written Aug 10, 2003
Written Aug 25, 2002
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Reviews and photos of Agra attractions posted by real travelers and locals. The best tips for Agra sightseeing.

Fatehpur Sikri - about 40 km from Agra and on the way to Jaipur.A deserted city builded in 1570 by the emperor Akbar and once Capital of the Mughals.
19 members live in Agra

Q: We've decided to go to Agra as a day trip . Should we arrange a driver before arriving ? Any suggestions ?

A: Drivers are fairly numerous. Don't do what I did and have the bell man set something up on the side. It was an adventure that I won't repeat. If you are staying at a...
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During the 16th and 17the centuries, Agra used to be the seat of the Imperial Mughal Court prior being shifted to Delhi by Shah Jahan. The capital was later moved back to Agra by the son of Shah Jahan...
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Agra is situated on the banks of famous river Yamuna is in Western part of Uttar Pradesh State.Agra is a grand old city which is famous in the world for the Taj Mahal, which is one of the seven...
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My first glimpse of Agra was also, as it happened with Delhi, a big cultural shock, but in other way. I arrived to Agra by train. It was a pleasant travel with very nice views. I realise we were...
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Agra - City of Taj Mahal and Agra Fort

Agra is a historical city about 4-5 hours drive south-east of Delhi (capital city of India). The historical cities of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur form the famous "Golden Triangle" of India and a major...
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I've got some interesting experiences in Agra. I'd love to share with you the 32 tips I've written, the 52 photos uploaded, and 0 travelogues I've created.
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