A Walk Through the Memoir's of Indian History - Agra!

When it comes to listing down the most important historical cities in India, Agra is somewhere on the top of that list. A fun-filled city today that offers artistic brilliance, culinary delights and rich history, it was once the shining jewel in the crown that was the Mughal empire. But while the heritage of Agra city is linked with the Mughal dynasty, many other rulers have also contributed to its rich past. The city is now a popular tourist destination and attracts tourists from all over the world to pay a visit to the city for its legendary monuments and indulge in many things to do in Agra.

Agra’s Rich and Royal History

Agra has a rich history and there are many things to do in Agra that will tell you all about the different periods in time and how each time period contributed in making Agra what it is today. While Agra is almost always considered synonymous with the Mughal Empire, its existence goes way back to the Mahabharata, where it was known as Agravana. In fact, there are certain sources that go even behind in time where Agra has been referred to as Arya Griha or the abode of the Aryans.

The first person who referred to Agra by its modern name was Ptolemy, a famous second century A.D. geographer who marked Agra on his map of the world. Tradition and legend say that the present city of Raja Badal Singh (around 1475 A.D.) whose Badalgarh Fort stood where the Agra Fort stands today. But it was Mughals who finally nurtured Agra and gave the world some of the finest monuments and historical buildings such as Taj Mahal of Shah Jahan, Agra Fort of Akbar, etc.

Post the exit of Mughal dynasty, the Marathas and British started gaining control over Agra. The Marathas held on to Agra in 1570 before succumbing to the British in the early 1800s. When the British took over, they made Agra a presidency city in North India but made Calcutta the capital of the British Colonial empire. Gradually, Agra lost its importance. Post India's independence, Agra became a part of Uttar Pradesh and was eventually developed into an industrial town. But even today, there are a list of things to do in Agra that will let you experience the same royalty and grandeur.

Best Time to Visit Agra

Wondering what is the best time to visit Agra and take a walk through its glorious history? Well, being in the interiors of India, the summer months of April to June are extremely hot in Agra during the day and temperatures can be as high as 45 degrees Celsius, making it virtually impossible for you to venture out during the day. You will not be able to enjoy any of the things to do in Agra during this season. Come monsoons from July to September, it is not a bad time to visit Agra. The temperature is not as high as the summer and the sparse rainfall brings a cool respite without greatly dampening your sightseeing plans. But the best time to visit Agra has to be during the winter months of  October to March. The temperature stays between 9 degrees to 21 degrees Celsius, making it the most ideal time. But given that this is peak Agra tourism season, you will have to book your travel tickets and accommodations well in advance. Also, be prepared to deal with the crowds at all the historical places in Agra.

Places to Visit in Agra

. Taj Mahal

. Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb

. Mehtab Bagh

. Agra Fort

. Fatehpur Sikri

. Moti Masjid

. Akbar’s Tomb

. Gurudwara Guru ka Tal

. Sikandra Fort

. Jama Masjid

. Chini ka Rauza

. Angui Bagh

. Jodha Bai ka Rauza

. Machhi Bhawan

. Diwan-I-Aam

Where to Stay in Agra

Welcome to Ramada Plaza by Wyndham! A dreamy and welcoming luxury resort in Agra situated in the historical city and a perfect choice for your family holiday. This Club Mahindra resort takes care of you and your family, just as you would, with the finest modern amenities and luxurious services. Its sprawling grounds encompass  many activities. For the days you want to stay indoors, you can make it more pleasurable by enjoying the resort’s many amenities such as the spa, a selection of restaurants and the fitness centre. After a relaxing day at the spa, indulge your inner foodie at our restaurants and bar. Feast on traditional Mughal cuisine to chaats and parathas, petha and dalmoth, an array of sweet and savoury delicacies await to tempt you. A family vacation at Agra surely helps break away from the routine city life since there are many things to do in Agra for the entire family to enjoy and learn more about the wonderful and fascinating history.