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Uttar Pradesh

Taj and beyond - exploring the must-visit spiritual spots in Agra

By: Travel and Food Network
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Agra, a city steeped in history and cultural grandeur, is synonymous with the magnificent Taj Mahal. While this iconic symbol of love captivates millions of tourists worldwide, Agra also boasts a rich tapestry of religious diversity. Beyond the architectural marvels, the city is adorned with an array of religious sites that hold deep spiritual significance for various faiths. Let’s explore the must-visit religious spots in Agra, offering a glimpse into the spiritual soul of this enchanting city.

Jama Masjid

Frequently known as the Friday Mosque, Jama Masjid stands in close proximity to the Agra Fort, with a commanding view of the railway station. Commissioned by Shah Jahan as a testament of his love for his daughter, Jahanara Begum, this impressive structure, constructed from red sandstone and marble, required the labor of 5000 workers over a span of six years to reach completion in 1648. It is an architectural masterpiece that boasts intricate designs and stunning red sandstone.

Moti Masjid

Within the historic Agra Fort, one encounters the Moti Masjid, or the Pearl Mosque. Built between 1648 and 1654 by Emperor Shah Jahan for royal members of the court, this pristine white marble mosque is a sight to behold. Its impeccable architecture and serene ambiance make it a must-visit religious spot, allowing visitors to reflect on the Mughal era's architectural prowess and spiritual devotion.

Gurudwara Guru Ka Taal

Gurudwara Guru Ka Taal, situated in Agra, is an esteemed Sikh sanctuary with a rich history closely tied to Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Guru of Sikhism. Guru Ka Taal has been built at the spot where Guru Teg Bahadur (the 9th guru of the Sikhs) laid down arms to the Mughal king Aurangzeb. The gurudwara's serene ambiance and the unwavering devotion of its pilgrims vividly demonstrate the profound spiritual significance it embodies.

Bageshwarnath Temple

Situated in the upscale vicinity near St. John's College and the Sales Tax Office, the Bageshwarnath Temple may not be as widely recognized as some other religious sites in Agra. However, it gains vibrant prominence during the auspicious occasion of Shivratri. During this time, the temple is adorned with brilliant lights and draws lengthy lines of devout worshippers who assemble to offer their reverence.

Other attractions in Agra

Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is often hailed as one of the most exquisite architectural masterpieces ever crafted. Shah Jahan commissioned the Taj Mahal in memory of his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who tragically passed away while giving birth to their 14th child in 1631. Construction of the Taj Mahal commenced the following year. While the main building took approximately eight years to complete, the entire complex wasn't finished until 1653. Shortly after its completion, Shah Jahan was deposed by his son, Aurangzeb, and subsequently imprisoned in the Agra Fort. From there, he could only gaze out at his magnificent creation through a window. In 1666, upon Shah Jahan's death, he was laid to rest beside his beloved Mumtaz within the Taj Mahal. In the course of its construction, around 20,000 laborers from India and Central Asia toiled on the project. Skilled artisans were even summoned from as far as Europe to craft the exquisite marble screens and pietra dura, an inlay technique using thousands of semi-precious stones. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, the Taj Mahal remains remarkably well-preserved today, closely resembling its original grandeur.

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Uttar Pradesh

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Agra Fort

In addition to the world-renowned Taj Mahal, Agra boasts one of India's most magnificent Mughal forts—the Agra Fort. This colossal structure, crafted from red sandstone, stands proudly on the banks of the Yamuna River. The fort's construction commenced in 1565 under the visionary leadership of Emperor Akbar, and it underwent further enhancements with the addition of elegant white marble elements during the reign of his grandson, Shah Jahan.

Originally designed for military purposes, the fort evolved into a splendid palace over time. However, its historical significance deepened when it served as a place of confinement for Emperor Shah Jahan, who spent eight years within its formidable walls, ordered there by his son, Aurangzeb, who assumed power in 1658.

Stretching over a formidable length of 2.5 kilometers, the fort is enclosed by imposing walls and encompasses a treasure trove of architectural marvels. Among these are the Shah Jahani Mahal, Jahangiri Mahal, Khas Mahal, and grand audience halls known as the Diwan-i-Am and the Diwan-i-Khas. The complex also includes the enchanting Fish Pavilion, the Nagina Masjid, the Garden of Grapes, and the resplendent Pearl Mosque. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Agra Fort stands as a testament to architectural prowess and is a destination that should not be missed by visitors.

Akbar’s Mausoleum 

Sikandra, the mausoleum of the Mughal emperor Akbar, stands as a magnificent testament to architectural fusion and secularism. This red sandstone and marble tomb was initially conceived and built by Emperor Akbar himself and later completed by his son, Jehangir, in 1613. Emperor Akbar personally chose the tomb's location and designed the structure during his lifetime.

Mehtab Bagh

Originally established by Emperor Babur as the final installment among a series of 11 parks along the eastern bank of the Yamuna River, this park faced a gradual decline over the years, eventually deteriorating into little more than an extensive sand mound. Recognizing the need to safeguard the Taj Mahal from the erosive impact of sand carried by the winds across the river, the park underwent a meticulous reconstruction effort. Today, it stands as one of the prime vantage points from which to admire the grandeur of the magnificent mausoleum.

Ram Bagh

Ram Bagh, believed to have been originally designed by Emperor Babur and subsequently refurbished by his great-granddaughter-in-law, Empress Nur Jahan, is reputed as the oldest Mughal garden in India. It exemplifies the Mughal fascination with the creation of earthly paradises in the form of pleasure gardens. Originally named Araam Bagh, which translates to the "garden of rest," Ram Bagh stands as a remarkable testament to Islamic landscape architecture and design. Situated approximately 5 kilometers from the Taj Mahal, it holds historical significance as the temporary resting place of Babur before his eventual interment in Kabul, Afghanistan.

Agra, known globally for the Taj Mahal, is a city that resonates with spirituality across different faiths. From the grandeur of Jama Masjid to the serenity of Gurudwara Guru Ka Taal, these religious spots encapsulate the essence of Agra's spiritual diversity. They invite travellers and devotees to embark on a profound journey, exploring not only the city's history but also the profound depths of faith and devotion that continues to thrive within its ancient walls.