Eternal Magnificence: Why The Taj Mahal Reigns As The World’s Most Popular Monument

BY  Abdul Aziz Apr 3, 2019

Are you planning for your next tour or Agra? Agra, the abode of love, is not only a historical place but also it is proud to have the 7th wonder of the world. Most of the people who have visited this place will tell you that it leaves you with the most memorable moments in life.   Visiting the place is not confined to see the Taj Mahal because there are lots more to experience. You just have to plan for your time well so that you can get the most from your Agra visit. If you are not careful, you may not even see 50% of what the region has to offer because it has too much.    The city has its own aura which is significantly outstanding. Agra holds its heritage intensely and its one of the things you will enjoy while interacting with the locals. The architecture and culture of the place had spectated and narrates tales of long driven history.   Time has made a significant mark which made the place exceptional for people who love tourism, archaeology, food etc. This article will share with you some of the must-visit places while touring Agra. You will discover that going to this destination is one of the best decisions that you can make in life.   Places to Visit in Agra:  As mentioned above, Agra is not the place to visit Taj Mahal alone. There are a lot of other attractions to visit and things to do. It is definitely not a one night stop place. You have to give yourself a few days if you want to get the best that the region has to offer to the visitors.   It is a whole individual tourist destination with a high degree of exploration. Coordinating with the local tour operators in Agra will help you to enjoy the city’s true spirit. The most important thing is to get the best experience while touring Agra.   It will be a good way to get the most value for your time and money. You don’t want to undertake a trip that will be a waste of your money and other valuable resources. Here are some of the top places and things to do in Agra;   1. Taj Mahal The monument that stands for true love is surely Taj. It is one of the most-visited places in Agra because of its natural beauty. Taj Mahal was built in 1653 by Shah Jahan. He constructed it in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz. The building houses the tomb of not only her but also the emperor himself.   The structure is constructed using white marbles, gems, crystals and many more. These are some of the most valuable construction materials in the world. The mausoleum is surrounded by huge, well paved, maintained and eye-pleasing garden. It is a destination that is quite pleasing to the eyes.   River Yamuna flowing beside it definitely add the toppings of a memorandum of everlasting romance. You will get to enjoy the pleasant atmosphere that comes as a result of the presence of the river. It is a site that is truly pleasing to the eyes.   UNESCO has credited it as World Heritage Site in 1983. It shows you the true value that the Taj Mahal has to offer to the visitors. You cannot expect such accreditation for a destination that is not worth it.    The masterpiece truly is the jewel of Mughal architecture and a symbol of India’s rich history. You should not forget to include this on your tour list if you want to get the best that the region has to offer to the visitors.   2. Agra Fort Agra Fort is another UNESCO credited World Heritage Site. If you come across anyone who has visited Agra, he will tell you that it is one of the must-visit places. Agra was the capital city of Mughal India till 1638.   The fort was the residence of the then emperors. It is a good place if you want to get a glimpse of the history of Agra. Stepping into this building will give you some of the best experiences that you can get from a tour.   The fort had gained its glory due to renovation through the reigns of Akbar and Shah Jahan. The fort is more likely described as the walled city. The red sandstone fort has interesting aspects all make Agra Fort a pleasant site to visit.   There are lots of fascinating rooms, pearl mosque, gem mosque, peacock throne, bathing bowl, a room of mirrors etc. All these are some of the beautiful sceneries you will get to view while visiting Fort Agra. Don’t deny yourself a chance of getting to this place while on your Agra tour.   3. Fatehpur Sikri  The city tells the tale of Akbar’s architectural finesse. This town, predominantly made of red sandstone, was once the capital of Emperor Akbar.   For tourists, the place has forts and mahals that can make you feel amazed. Due to the scarcity of water, the city was abandoned.   Despite lack of water, the city holds its rich architecture and heritage that is ought to be applauded.  4. Tomb Of Itimad-Ud-Daulah  The mausoleum is a definite place to visit. The tomb is the exclusive piece of Mughal architecture but it holds a significant difference. Fatehpur Sikri is one of the best inclusions while on your tour to Agra. You cannot tell history well when you have this site excluded from your travel list.   It is much different from the period of Humayun’s and Akbar’s Mughal architectural type. Built by Noor Jahan, wife of Jahangir, the structure is very similar to Taj Mahal and is often referred to as Baby Taj. It carries a lot of value when you are on an Agra tour.   River Yamuna flows near the mausoleum adding more natural beauty to it.  Though most of the inlay works are damaged due to environmental factors, Fatehpur Sikri is famous for the marble lattice screen. Therefore, it is good to include it on your tour list if you want to get the best experience from Agra.   5. City Shopping  Agra will never disappoint you by simply showing you places.  It has some of the most amazing tourist attraction sites that have so much to do. You can spend an entire day hopping to various shops in the city streets.   From food, clothing, footwears, jewelleries, bags to carpets and what not the city holds for its guests. Tourists get mesmerised by seeing the fine products available at such minimal rates. It means that you will have so much to take back home as long as you carry some cash.   For people who loves food, Agra will provide you the richest cuisines made by excellent quality spices and other ingredients. The city shopping gives you a great opportunity to carry some amazing gifts to your loved ones. Make sure you have a shopping budget lest you get the disappointments of having nothing to carry back home.   6. Tips For Taj Mahal Visit  Trip in India is pretty incomplete without visiting the magnificent Taj Mahal. It must contain in your itinerary. It is one of the places that you must visit while heading to India.   This international wonder structure is spectated by millions of visitors every year. Here are some tips that you must keep in mind to make the most of your trip.  Get some brief idea regarding the place by reading a lot about the destination. It will give you a rough idea regarding what to see and explore in Taj Mahal. It is not good to visit Taj Mahal without prior knowledge about what the region has to offer.   The place opens at 6AM for the visitors. Enter through the east gate to watch and feel the purity of true love when the sun rays kisses the marble stones of the mausoleum. There is so much that is pleasing to the eyes in this destination.   There are different entry gates. The nationals shall pay Rs. 20 per person and foreigners shall pay Rs. 750 per person. However, Taj Mahal will give you the value for your money.   Make sure your tummy is full during your visit to the place. Nobody is allowed to bring snacks or food inside the campus.  The place is no doubt always beautiful at any season. But, for your convenience, it is better to choose winters as Agra gets hotter in summers. It will give you a conducive environment of touring the region.   West side of Taj Mahal can create interesting photo frames. Be patient to take some really great snaps as Taj is always crowded with visitors. Plan enough time to visit this area so that you are not in a hurry to leave.   Lastly, you must go for a full moon night tour in Taj Mahal. It was constructed with pristine translucent marbles. When you are inside Taj you can actually see the shimmer of the moonlight due to the marbles. It is one of the best experiences on your Agra tour.   Agra is one of a kind place. Visiting and exploring it will definitely make a lifetime experience. Plan a memorable tour of the place for an enchanting life moment. We wish you have a happening tour to not only Agra but Taj Mahal too.   To get the best from your Agra tour, get a reputable tour and travel agency to take you through the trip. You will not miss even a single opportunity from what you travel has to offer.  Read Also: 6 Best Family Holiday Destinations in India The Best Tips to Travel Around the World

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 23, 2021

Found in 1052 by Anangpal Tomar, Delhi is one of the oldest and most ancient cities in India. Many also believe that the history of ancient Delhi goes back to 800 BCE when King Dhilu built it. Further, the tales of Mahabharata present Delhi as the capital of the Pandavas, Indraprastha. So, exploring the city's history is one of the best things to do in Delhi for first-time tourists. However, that’s not all! Every nook in Delhi offers you a unique cultural experience through street food and people. However, as a first-time traveler, you must seek a credible service for Delhi city tours. Despite the availability of public transportation, it will be safer and more convenient for you.   Check for certifications, licenses, and official registration of these service providers and then discuss the itinerary with them.  These Are The Top Things To Do In Delhi For First Time Tourists   Delhi is like a book, and every chapter has amazing stories, twists, and turns. Honestly, the things to do in Delhi can be overwhelming for a first-time tourist.  So, here, I have curated some places that will offer you an eclectic experience. These places will also offer you a slice of the Indian culture. So, you will know what to expect when you come back to this ancient yet modern city.   Visit the elaborate tomb of Humayun Entry Fee: INR 35 for Indians, INR 550 for Foreigners   Came as a precursor for the Taj Mahal, an inspiration for it as well, the Humayun Tomb ironically mixes the Persian architecture with precision and Indian craftsmanship. The tomb is picturesquely surrounded by symmetrical Mughal Gardens and displays the iconic and grand architectural heritage of the Mughals. For the best photos and scenic views, you should visit the tomb during the sunset when it is complement by the various vibrant colors of the sky. Explore Indian Art and Ancient Culture Entry Fee: INR 20 for Indians, INR 650 for Foreigners, Free for Students up to 12th Standard  The National Museum of Delhi is one of the largest museums in India with a huge collection of ancient Indian artifacts like sculptures, wood carvings, pottery, weapons, seals, coins, idols, archaeological remains, stupas, and many more. The artifacts from various major archeological excavations are preserved and put on display here at the National Museum. Its huge collection of 200000 artworks comprises artifacts of both Indian and foreign origin covering a history of about 5000 years. One of the best things to do in Delhi and India is to take a look at the Harappan Gallery, Maurya, Shunga and Satvahana Art Gallery, Gupta gallery, and Kushana Gallery to name a few popular art collections at the museum. Travel back in time with a stroll in Old Delhi Don’t get lost in the bazaars of Old Delhi, instead of travel back in time and take the steps and the path that a 17th-century detective takes in the Eighth Guest and Other Muzaffar Jang Mysteries written by Madhulika Liddle. Old Delhi has a unique mix of ancient structures from the Mughal era, which are almost in ruins while the historic parts stay well preserved, and modern buildings coexisting together. Taste Delhi’s Mouth-Watering Street Food Delhi is known for its delicious street food like chaat papri, panipuri (golgappas), parathas, kebabs, chole bhature, and pav bhaji. Some of the sweets that you must try are Dahi Bhalla, jalebis, and kulfi. But if you want to go full street-kid, you should definitely munch on the appetizing and healthy Chanan Zor Garam – something that is exclusively available on the streets. The street food only gets betters during monsoons as the pagodas bring new heat to your body and a delicious taste to your tongue. You can’t leave without trying its delicious food and not mention that it is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Delhi. Also check out the historic British colonial art at the National Gallery of Modern Art, a collection known as “Company Paintings”. They were made by the Indian artists to please the British masters. Go shopping No tour is complete without getting souvenirs back for friends and relatives to remind them that you travel but they don’t. All joking aside, buying clothes and other memorabilia which you can only get in the street bazaars of Delhi. From Baba Kharak Singh Marg to Connaught Place, there are many markets, stalls, craft stores, and ethnic wear in Dilli Haat to make for an all-around quick one-day shop stop. For many tourists, it is among the top list of things to do in Delhi. Experience the life of a prisoner This is an upcoming tourist attraction that hasn’t opened yet. But soon the largest prison in India, Tihar Jail is opening up its cells for tourism. Yep, you read that right. You will soon be able to pay money to go to jail, live in a prison, eating prison food, and work in the prison just like any other prisoner there. Forget about the costly and five-star resorts that Delhi has to offer and instead stay at the Prison Inn (not an official name). Don’t worry about safety though because the cells are separated from the violent inmates and criminals who “live” in the Jail. Of course, you will also be given prison clothes and will be treated like any other prisoner. Pay respect to Mahatma Gandhi at his Tomb M.K. Gandhi, also known as Mahatma Gandhi, is an important public figure, politician, and freedom fighter who brought peace and independence to India. Is it any wonder that India considers him as the Father of the Nation? He is known as the man who redefined the revolution by not partaking in violent acts and gave courage to the world by living his life according to his philosophy. Visit the tomb of Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat where a black marble stone was placed where his body’s cremation took place. Among the most peaceful things to do in Delhi, pay respect to the eternal flame and remember everything he did for this great nation. His tomb is made to represent what he was as a man – simple. Check out Lodi Garden, Qutub Minar, and Red Fort When you’re in town, you must not miss the historic monuments that the city has to offer. One of the must-do things in Delhi is checking out its historical forts and monuments including Qutub Minar, Red Fort, and Lodi Gardens. Lodi gardens are filled with historic monuments belonging to the Islamic Sayyid and Lodi dynasties. Meanwhile, Qutub Minar is a UNESCO inscribed World Heritage Site which a monument built by the founder of Delhi Sultanate, Qutb ud Din Aibak. The Red Fort was the first place where Jawaharlal Nehru hoisted the Indian tricolor flag after India got its independence. Don’t miss any of these amazing things in Delhi and check off all the entries on this list. To get the most of your stay, check out the complete travel guide to Delhi before you book flights or make any plans. Visit The India Gate  The India Gate, located near the Kartavya Path or the Rajpath, is one of the most prominent memorial sculptures in India. It is like the Arc-de-Triomphe in its architecture.   This iconic arch-like structure commemorates 70,000 soldiers from India sacrificing their lives for the British in World War I.   Further, under the arch, there is Amar Jawan Jyoti or an unextinguishable flame. It remembers the lives of Indian soldiers lost in the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971.   As the Sun sets, the India Gate looks amazing with floodlights. The nearby fountains add to the ambiance. Visiting the India Gate is a somber experience. A visit to the India Gate is essential if you want to share solidarity with the true spirit of the country.   Visit The Hauz Khas Hauz Khas literally translates to the Water Tank (Hauz) of the Royal (Khas). This quaint village in South Delhi is home to iconic institutes like the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), and Indian Institute of Foreign Trade.   Amidst the quaint and medieval structures of the place thrives a modern chic culture that began here in the 1980s.   Frequently Asked Questions!!! (FAQs): Q1: Where can I Spend a Whole Day in Delhi? Ans: There are many places you can choose to spend an entire day in Delhi, such as • Nehru park• Deer park• India gate lawns• National zoological park• Lodhi gardens• Badhkal lakes Q2: What are the Things not to do in Delhi? Ans: There are a few things that you should do and show respect while you are in Delhi.• Don’t break rules, laws.• Don’t disrespect anyone from any community, as Delhi is the capital of India, and there are many people from different cultures. • Don’t fight with anyone unnecessarily.  Read Also: 5 Must Visit Offbeat Destinations Near Delhi Top 10 Famous Wonders Of India

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 20, 2017

Don’t keep yourself hanged up because your friends are too busy to plan out the New Year’s Eve. We have made the work easier. Find some of the coolest events in and around your city happening this New Year and if this list doesn’t satisfy you, we’ve got more lined up. Food and party to solitude and nature, there are events for all kinds of people. Glow your New Year at these Bangalore Events: CountDown NYT-2018: Countdown to New Year at I V Sanctum, Race Course. Sia Entertainments offers food and fun along with fireworks, liquors and drinks, buffet dinner and lots of photographs. With all the entertainment, they also take care of security and first aid and provide the drop-in facility. Bengaluru Food Festival: Foodies, the best way to say goodbye to 2017 and the welcome new year would be enjoying it with food. Check in to New Horizon Ground on the last weekend of this year to have your taste buds taste the exquisite flavors. Bring along your foodie friends and enjoy the time relishing the past year. Narasimha Parvatha Trek & Udupi Beach: This New Year lets your nomad soul scream to its fullest at Narasimha Parvatha, the tallest peak in Agumbe Ghats, an awesome trek for that craving solitude. Muddie Trails heartfully invites you to this unique and wonderful combination of mountains, wilderness, waterfalls, and beaches! Explore the lands and live between nature. New Year 2018 in Thailand (Bangkok - Phuket): Mr. Traveler has planned your New Year in the lands far away - Thailand. Celebrate NEW YEAR 2018 in Thailand with amazing certified tour @ INR 29,990 + Flight. It is included with a bunch of tours that will rock your new year and will give you an experience of the lifetime. New Year Party at Kaveri river: Nature calls your inner nomad as you say goodbye to 2017. Caught up in the hectic schedule of studies and work? Now is the time to relish the moment. Escape the city and spend an amazing day amidst nature. Dance and sing to the beats of nature. Eat foodalicious barbecue and socialize at the campfire in the chilling winter weather. Camp your nights in between mountains and rivers. Swim your fears away and rest in village huts. Gaze at the stars and relive the forest child moments. Waiting to spot a shooting star to grant your traveling wish? There’s no need. This is it. Dhaatu International Puppet Festival: Bring out the child in you or bring your children along, this puppet show is for all ages. Dhaatu International Puppet Show at Bangalore. Panache - New Year's Eve 2018: The Luxurious JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru has planned a star-studded lineup of acts, premium liquor, and unlimited F&B to celebrate the New Year’s Eve. Are they forgetting something? No, they have got all the things well covered! Bring out your inner party animal because this is the time to dance off and have a blast. Bangalore, this is a glimpse of all the good things that will be happening soon. Grab your spot and treat yourself, the time of year has come to enjoy hard and make it happen. Did not find any event of your genre? There are many more events lined up; check out events in Bangalore events for New Year. And do not forget to RSVP yourself and your friends. Read More: 6 Expert Packing Tips that will make your Trips more Fun Make Your Honeymoon a Truly Memorable Affair: Here’s How Improve Your Travel Experience By Hiring A Limo Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try