Agra was the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1526 to 1658.  This is considered the golden age for Agra.  While the history of Agra can be traced back to the Mahabharata, the more recent history is recorded from the Lodhi Dynasty when Sikandar Lodhi reestablished it in 1504.  

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Under the Mughals, Agra became a centre for learning arts, commerce and religion.  The construction of the Agra Fort, Sikandra and Taj Mahal happened during this period.  In the late 18th Century, Agra fell to the Marathas and then to the British East India Company. 

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Since Independence, Agra has developed into an industrial town with an emphasis on leather, footwear and other manufacturing.   The Taj Mahal has also made it one of the most visited cities in India for tourism.

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SHOPPING IN AGRA:

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Apart from visiting the historical monuments in Agra, visitors can also indulge in some shopping and leisure.  Some of the bazaars in Agra are centuries old that showcase handicrafts, leather goods, textiles, jewellery and much more.

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1. Subhash Bazaar:  This shopping haven lures shoppers with exquisite marble, wood and stone handicrafts, traditional Indian textiles, stunning jewellery designs!

2. Kinari Bazaar:   Identified by its narrow lanes, this bazaar highlights traditional Indian clothes, accessories, hand-embroidered bedspreads and cushion covers!  For food lovers, try the popular street food- chaat!  Kinari Bazaar is located at a walking distance from the Taj Mahal.

3. Raja ki Mandi:  This bazaar offers an unparalleled shopping experience with a focus on clothes, jewellery, handicrafts and home decor including marble inlay work and brassware.

4. Shah's Market:  Located near the Taj Mahal, this bazaar promotes handicrafts and artefacts.  Stroll along the stalls as you are enthralled by the intricate marble sculptures, leather goods and embroidered fabrics.  

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HOW TO REACH AGRA:

AGRA AIRPORT  

The Agra Airport is also known as the Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport or Kheria Airport.  Part of the Air Force Station, the Agra Airport came up during World War II.  With just one domestic terminal and another under construction, the Agra Airport currently operates with just one airline--Indigo operating flights to Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Bangalore, Bhopal and Lucknow.

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RAILWAY STATION

The Agra Cantt Railway Station is the main station in Agra.  It is located near Sadar Bazaar in the Southwest of the city.  It is one of the busiest railway stations in India.  The station is just over 5 kms from Taj Mahal and Agra Fort and 4 kms from the Airport.  Apart from the Shatabdi Express train from Delhi, one can also take the Gatimaan Express, India's first semi high speed train.  This train leaves from the Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station and fares start from Rs. 1100 onwards.  It takes approximately two hours to reach Agra.

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​Connect with our Travel Concierge for assistance with railway tickets or flights to Agra!

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