3 DAY AGRA TOUR


This Itinerary works for some guests who are already in India, either visiting or residing and would like to take a brief sojourn to Agra. The first night stay at New Delhi is optional in such case. This can also be customized to a one-night stay in Agra. Depending on the guest’s requirement, certain elements can be altered, as Compass holidays are all personalized, additions and omissions are entirely up to one’s choice.

Your luxury holiday in India begins at the capital city of New Delhi. Our representative shall meet you at the airport and arrange your transfer to a spacious, comfortable Compass-rated vehicle. Check-in to your hotel and relax. Overnight is at Delhi.

After breakfast, proceed to Agra, which is approx. 200 kms from New Delhi. Enroute stop at Sikandra. This Beautifully maintained monument is where Emperor Akbar was laid to rest. It is a fairly low profile but awe - inspiring monument. It’s surreal to know that the Mighty Moghul Emperor lies so quietly, almost discreetly amongst the manicured lawns. The Emperor himself began the construction of his own mausoleum during his lifetime. However, his son, Jahangir completed the construction in 1613. An impressive marble - inlaid gateway leads to the spacious four - tiered monument that is crowned by a white marble cenotaph and screen. What is interesting is that the structure imbibes the best of Hindu, Christian, Islamic, Buddhist, Jain motifs, signifying the new religion started by Akbar – the Din – E – Ilahi.

After Sikandra, stop by the Itmad –ud-ullah. The interior of this monument is considered better than the Taj Mahal. Nur Jahan, the Empress of Jehangir for her father in 1628, built one of the most beautiful Mughal tombs, Itmad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb. The tomb is a resting place of the powerful personality in Mughal Court, Itmad-Ud-Daulah, whose life is very interesting. Formerly a very poor Persian merchant then named Mirza Ghiyas or Ghiyas Beg he became a minister and a trusted treasure in Akbar's court. After Akbar's death in 1605, his son Jahangir rose into power. Jahangir made Ghiyas Beg his chief minister and honored him with the title of Itmad-Ud-Daulah, the Pillar of State. Later, Jahangir met a beautiful daughter of Ghiyas Beg named Mehr-Un-Nissa and married her. Mehr-Un-Nissa soon played a significant role in the Jahangir's court and was called Nur Mahal, the light of the Place. Owing to her influence, her father and brother were granted with privileges in the court. When Ghiyas beg (Itmad-Un-Daulah) dies in 1622, Nur Mahal decided to build a mausoleum for him. Queen Mumtaz Mahal or the lady of the Taj was also from this prevailing family. The mausoleum is entirely made of white marble and graced with intricate decoration of inlay work, and marble-screen work belonging to the Islamic style. With its tranquil, small garden on the bank of Yamuna River, the tomb stands impressively elegant from a distance.

Reach Agra and check-in to your hotel. Have lunch, and relax for a while. In the evening, go for a Broadway styled play called ‘Mohabbat – e – Taj. It is based on the legendary love story of the Emperor Shah Jahan and his beloved Queen, Mumtaz. If you so desire, you can adorn costumes and get a first hand feel of the Mughal era.

Wake up a little early to enjoy early morning views of the Taj Mahal. The Taj looks resplendent by the first rays of the Sun. Little needs to be said about this architectural wonder, which is always the soul raison-de-etre for every tourist's visit to Agra. Built by Shah Jahan, the Taj is a white marble memorial to his beautiful wife Mumtaz Mahal. This monument took 22 years to be completed and was designed, and planned by Persian architect Ustad Isa. Apart from its stunning design balance and perfect symmetry, the Taj is also noted particularly for its elegant domes, intricately carved screens and some of the best inlay work ever seen.   

After soaking your senses in this monument of love, visit the Agra Fort, which is located nearby. The red sandstone structure is surrounded by chahar-bagh, a four- cornered formal garden. Built by the famed Mughal emperor Akbar in 1565 AD, the fort is predominantly of red sandstone.  Ensconced within is the picture perfect Pearl Mosque, which is a major tourist attraction. It lies on the bend of the river Yamuna, almost in the heart of the town. Akbar built it as his citadel over the years 1563-73 in the finest architectural style. It has imposing gates and walls of red sandstone and a moat.

Come back to the hotel and relax. In the evening you can go for a Heritage walk on the other side of the River Yamuna with your guide or enjoy a much - deserved Spa at the hotel. Sitting by the pool is always another alternative.

After breakfast, check – out from the hotel and proceed to Delhi. On your way out, visit Fatehpur Sikri, the erstwhile capital of the Mughal Sultanate. Akbar built it with great care keeping all aspects in mind. It took 15 years to complete the construction of this city.

Reach Delhi and go for a last minute shopping if you must. Compass representative will accompany you to your drive to the international airport.




Request for Information



   

Signup newsletter