Rewind with the Mughals Agra Travel

Agra Fort Agra

Framed with one of the Seven Wonders of the World- Taj Mahal, Agra is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Located at the banks of River Yamuna, Agra city is famous for its extraordinary monuments and buildings. It is a city with rich cultural heritage, historical architecture and religious attachments. Agra, a medieval city, was assumed to be built in 1475, had been found its place even in the epic Mahabharata as Agraban (means paradise). I also ventured for an Agra Tour to witness the grandeur of the Mughals.

Agra Fort: Also known as Red Fort of Agra it is built in red sandstone by Akbar. The fort contains palaces both in red sandstone and white marble; the fort is crescent shaped. The fort originally has 4 gates out of which 2 are high walled. Jahangir Mahal is the most important and notable building here. Built as women quarters, it is the only building that has survived. Other buildings in the fort are Jodha Bai’s palace, Anguri Bagh, Sheesh Mahal and many more.

Taj Mahal: The most extravagant monument and one of the 7 wonders of the world built as a token of love. It is built of white marble. Apparently the 4 minarets are built taking care of the earthquake; they are slightly tilted outwards. The main gate has Quran inscriptions written over it. The Taj Mahal consists of gardens, tombs, fountains, mosques and gateways. The glory of the Taj Mahal is best on a full moon night.

Fatehpur Sikri: Is the home to the birth of Navratnas (9 jewels). The city in red sandstone was built to celebrate the birth of Salim, Akbar’s son. Designed as per Mughal architecture, the massive monument is fortified by towers and has 7 gates. Some of the important buildings in the city are Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid and Tomb of Salim Chisti, Panch Mahal and Birbal's House.

Buland Darwaza Agra

Buland Darwaza: Located in Fatehpur Sikri it is known as gate of magnificence. Built in red sandstone the gateway stands 40 m high. The gateway features calligraphic inscriptions of the Quran. The gateway is approached by 42 steps and also serves as an entrance to Jama Masjid.

Thus with this ended my incredible travel to Agra.

Solving Mystery of History with Royal Rajasthan on Wheels - Part II

During this tour we also covered Sawai Madhopur and Jodhpur, the two other important destinations of India. Each of the destinations offered a different experience. We explored Mehrangarh Fort, Moti Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sileh Khana and Daulat Khana. We also visited Umaid Bhawan. We have read enough about these places and even we had been there earlier also but visiting these places by Royal Rajasthan on Wheels was a fairy-tale experience. We were feeling like princesses who were travelling from our one palace to another and Royal Rajasthan on Wheels was our royal caravan.

Moti Mahal

After Rajasthan, the train moved towards Madhya Pradesh, the heart of India. Located in almost middle of the country, Madhya Pradesh was new for us. We had never been to this beautiful state. After spending another night in that moving palace, we were in Khajuraho temples. Fine architecture of these temples made us wonder that without any technology and tools how did they carve such amazing sculptures? Although we were exploring the amazing temples of Kahjuraho yet I was missing the luxury on board. I was not able to understand what was the magic that was dragging me towards train. I guess it was luxury and the decoration. Exclusive Bar, Spa Facilities, Personalized Services, Splendid Saloons, Royal Decoration and Personalized Attendant, all these facilities were not allowing me to concentrate on the world outside the train.

As we boarded the train, I got that princely feel again. I could not realize that I was even behaving in a royal manner. Suddenly Heena made me realize that we were on the train just for a week. I was a bit low after realizing the fact that five days of the tour were over. I did not notice when I fell asleep in the cozy beds of the train. I woke up in the morning. Heena told me that she could not sleep due to the luxurious environment as she was living there as a dream.

Agra Fort

The moment we got down in Varanasi, we felt that no combination can be better than travelling in luxury to the Varanasi. Calm ambience and enchantment of mantras took my heart away. I did not know why but Varanasi was always on my list of must visit places. After stepping in the holy region I could realize that there lies a heaven on the earth. We visited different Ghats and temples there and all of them were amazing. A whole day in spiritual aura was not allowing us to leave the place but finally luxury of the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels won and we were back on the train.

Next destination was Agra, the land that houses the symbol of love. A full day in the city made me realize that the love of these emperors was also royal like them. Gloriously standing Taj Mahal is the evidence of the fact. We explored Fatehpur Sikri and Agra Fort as well. Finally, we left for Delhi. The tour was about to over and we were not in a mood to step out of this world class luxury.

On Sunday, we de-boarded the train early morning. It was really hard for us to come out of that luxury experience but we had to. There was no choice. Soon, we would be planning another luxury train tour.

Taj Mahal Tour- A Trip to Immeasurable Beauty

Tajmahal Tour

Last month, we all 3 sisters planned to go out of the City. Reason being, we were very tired of our monotonous routine life and were looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of Delhi, the place we live in. With my two sisters Bhawna and Ekta, I too was very excited for this short trip.

As there was nothing much to do on weekends, we found it the best time to visit Agra. We opted for the convenient travelling option, taxi. Involved in the discussion about Agra, the travel plan and several other fun-filled things we were supposed to enjoy there, we reached Agra after 4 hours. Well, the journey was tiring, but still we were extremely excited to see Taj Mahal.

On being reached Uttar Pradesh, the home land of Taj Mahal we were filled with an amazing feeling. Among one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Taj is one such monument about which I had been reading and listening since my childhood. Fortunately, we got the opportunity to see it in the evening, when it looks the best. Casted by moonlight, the dazzling Taj Mahal was looking spectacular. Built with beautiful white marble, the monument creates an impressive view.

Being there, we did not want to miss out the opportunity to savour the Mughlai cuisine. We found plenty of options but we opted for tandoori chicken, seekh and even tandoori fish, which were followed by petha (a sweet dish) and gazak.

Agra Fort

Lying on the bank of river Yamuna, Agra Fort is another spectacular spot of Agra. Imposing architecture, majestic building and the red sand stone stretches just grabbed our attention. Bhawna, my elder sister just could not take her eyes off from the monument. Though the fort has two gates-the Delhi Gate and the Amar Singh Gate but the entry was allowed only via the second one. While Ekta was admiring the architectural beauty of the monument, I was just trying to believe myself of being there.

Well, we had some time in our hand, so we decided to visit Fatehpur Sikri to make the most of our visit to Agra. The decision was worth as it gave us the opportunity to explore the royalty and architecture of Mughal era. The monument made in the contemporary style was clearly reflected.

Buland Darwaza and Sikandara were other place which became a part of our exploration during our Agra tour. Being a shopaholic, I could not helm myself buying intricate Mughal style jewellery. It was affordable and above all, having unique designs.

The tour ended and we were ready to back with a bang and a delighted mood!

Redefine the Luxury with Mahraja's Express-Part 2

As soon as we got up, we all were really exciting to visit the next destination, Agra. After having breakfast, we arrived at Agra. Having heard and read a lot about Taj Mahal, I was too curious to visit this architectural wonder and finally, I was there. The glorious monument still retains its old-world charm. To see the picturesque setting of Taj is like a dream coming true.

Maharaja Express Train interior

Standing proudly on the banks of river Yamuna, it is synonym of love and beauty. The exquisite ornamentation, the purity of the white marble and the spectacular location all make it a worth-visiting place. Thereafter, we proceeded to the famous Agra fort, which is also renowned as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a maze of courtyards and huge private chambers that showcase the splendor of the Mughal Empire.

We also got an opportunity to visit the Diwan-E-Aam and royal pavilions such as the Shah Jahan Mahal. While wandering through beautifully decorated halls and courtyards, I felt as if I was in the Mughal era where all I could see was, the royalty of that time. Headed to the Taj Khema, we came across colorfully attired musicians and dancers who escorted us to the gardens.

We were also allowed to enjoy shopping at Agra. There we came across some popular shopping items like handicrafts, marble and soapstone inlay work, brass ware, leather goods, textiles, carpets and exquisite jewellery. Our co-passengers were busy in picking up their favorite items while Dhara also bought some handicraft items for the keepsake of the tour.

We rejoined the train and enjoyed watching live television, which truly calls for applause. I wonder that how perfectly everything has been arranged for passengers. It must be the result of minute observation, which has at last successful in making the journey unforgettable for passengers.

One more thing, which is worth to mention here is that besides the beautiful sitting area, adorned with regal sofas, there is also a separate dining area. It allows you to dine in private. I am running short of words to describe the grandeur of the decor of the suite. Perhaps it can be best defined as par with excellence in luxury, richness and comfort.

Next morning, we were in Gwalior. After a leisurely breakfast, we set out to explore the city. The city is a blend of modern and traditional place. On one side, we could see the vibrant and bustling aspect, while on the other side, a multitude of monuments and temples reflect its glorious past.

Gwalior Fort

Then, we relaxed and enjoyed lunch. Jai Vilas Palace and Scindia Museum were also became the part of our exploration. The present Maharajas still live in a part of the place and the other part has been converted into a museum now. The museum displays remarkable collection of artifacts. We visited Usha Kiran Palace for enjoying cocktails and then board the train. Enjoying last dinner on board, we all were being ready for the next day to reach our last destination-Delhi.

Proceeding on a tour exploring the appealing sites of Delhi, we bid goodbye to the Maharaja's Express. Our mystical journey on the train was over, which was still unbelievable thought for us. The memory of the tour still refreshes my mind and takes me to the world of royalty and luxury.