India: Agra

The Taj Mahal is clearly one of the top sites associated with India. It was the first image to come to mind when we first started tossing around the idea of visiting India. But after researching more for our trip, we realized that the Taj Mahal is in the city of Agra, which, other than the Taj, really does not have much to offer tourists. Multiple sources suggested that we get in and out of Agra only to see the Taj, and then keep going. We took the advice, drove to Agra from Delhi, had a tour of the great Indian icon and a marble factory, and then left the next morning to continue on. We had a private local guide for our time in the Taj who explained the history of the world-famous monument and helped us get some fun pictures.

Yet another delicious meal just outside the gates of the Taj Mahal.

Entrance to the Taj

We learned about the detailed art of marble making.

On the way from Agra to Jaipur, we stopped at the Fatehpur Sikri Fort. This fort contains a blend of Mughal and Persian architecture, and its gateway is the largest in the world! Its Mosque is said to be a copy of the mosque in Mecca. We also had a local guide that explained many aspects of the Fort and the historical culture of medieval Mughal India.

Daily life, just hangin' out in the fort.

A view of the village from the fort.

As we drove to and from Agra, our eyes were glued to the scenery passing by our windows. The glimpse we got into the life in the small villages and countryside that we passed was truly fascinating and humbling. 







We continued through the streets of India, arriving at our next destination just as the sun was setting. Stay tuned to hear about Jaipur!