I had always dreamed of visiting the Taj Mahal. A wonder of the world that etches love in white marble, the Taj is much more than just a monument. I could not wait to check it off my bucket list of places to visit. The dream was turning into reality, as my plans of visiting Agra were finally being made after years of manifestation. At the start of the Christmas holidays, I packed my bags and began my journey to Agra.
Most hotels in Agra were packed, but I was smart enough to book in advance. As soon as I checked in and settled, nothing was stopping me from going to the Taj. But a chance conversation that I overheard at the travel desk left me baffled. Well, all this while I thought Agra was synonymous with the Taj. Little did I know that there was so much more to do and see in the city. I cautiously picked up the flyer at the desk and made a mental note of what else I could do in Agra. But, for now, all I needed was to visit the Taj Mahal.
The magic of Agra’s Taj Mahal
I was lucky that it was still early afternoon, leaving me enough time to enjoy and admire every little detail in and around the Taj Mahal. As I entered through the red sandstone Darwaza-i-rauza, the surreal monument arose from behind a thin fog. As if still in a dream, I saw the Taj materialise before my eyes. The nearer I went, the more intrigued I felt. For the grandeur did not fade, but the intricacy of design and carvings became more detailed and delicate.
Yet, with the swelling crowds, noise and long queues, the magic and charm of the monument seemed to fade a little. People were lined up everywhere, chatter and photography taking away the serenity that I had imagined would be a part of this serene getaway. Of course, the Taj didn’t disappoint. But could there be anything that could match or even dare to better this experience?
Agra Fort and Agra’s Food
Well, I knew of the Agra Fort and planned to visit it too. I took off early the next day, wrapped in sweaters and shawls on a chilly winter day. As I walked up the slight incline towards the entrance, the majestic red walls on either side bespoke of might and majesty. The massive grounds and different sections within were steeped in history, culture and artistry. I kept exploring one after the other – the Jahangir Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas and Diwan-i-Aam, the King’s Bath, Sheesh Mahal and Anguri Bagh. The fort seemed never-ending, encompassing a treasure trove of memories from the past.
On exiting the fort, the sunlight had only just begun to make a weak impact on the foggy morning. The long walks had made me hungry. As I strolled along, the local food stalls made no obvious attempt to invite me, but the frying of hot puris and the smell of fresh aaloo curry was too much to resist. After eating too many puris to count, and packing a box of the famous Agra pethas, I made my way back to the hotel. What’s next, I thought to myself?
Agra’s ‘Baby Taj’ took more than just a few baby steps
The ‘Baby Taj’ or Tomb of I’timad-ud-Daulah is also in Agra. It was listed as one of the tourist destinations on the flyer that I had picked up the previous day. Without giving it much thought, I hailed an auto and went off to see if Baby Taj was worthy of its name. But just one single look at the monument took my breath away.
While not as tall or popular as the Taj, the Baby Taj is a beautiful piece of architecture and art. Built in white marble, this monument seemed to have carvings and designs that were more elegant and graceful than the ones in the Taj Mahal itself. Surrounded by green gardens and walkways, there were hardly a total of five people when I visited. The solitude and peace enveloped this picture-perfect tomb, giving it a soulful energy.
Agra’s local markets and heritage walks
From the tranquillity of Baby Taj, I made my way to one of the city’s busiest markets, the Sadar Bazaar. Leather products are its main speciality, though one can find a variety of products and goods here. From shoes, sandals and mojris to clothes, belts, and handbags, I picked up a lot of items. Besides, how could I forget the souvenirs? Every second shop had a small Taj Mahal model or handcrafted miniatures, magnets and keychains, each reminding buyers that the Taj was indeed the most popular of the city’s landmarks.
Yes, the Taj Mahal undoubtedly is the main highlight of Agra. But the city’s rich history and heritage unfolded many other remarkable monuments, experiences and interactions that made my trip memorable even after I moved beyond the Taj.
