Field Trip Report on Tourist Attractions of

Ajmer, Pushkar, Jaipur, Bharatpur and

Agra

Submitted To- Dr. Sanjay Nibhoria

Submitted by- Ayush Saxena

B.T.A 3rd Sem.

I.T.H.M(B.U) Jhansi

AcknowledgementIt is rightly said that “When the work/task is started properly it will be fulfilled proper as well”. I would like to pay mu sincere tribute to the almighty with love and respect , so to my parents and my teachers who supported, guided and inspired me to prepare my field trip report.

I take this opportunity to express my deep gratitude to Prof. O.P Kandari, H.O.D of I.T.H.M (B.U) Jhansi, for the exposure of the tour.

I pay my sincere regards to our respected faculty member Dr. Sanjay Nibhoria who helped me in the preparation of this report. I will always be indebted to him in my life.

I would like to convey my sincere regards and thanks to my family for their constant support, wishes and encouragement they provided to me, they are the ones who are invaluable in my life more than anyone else.

Ayush Saxena

B.T.A 3rd Sem

I.T.H.M (B.U)

Significance of Field Trip Report

This field trip report is based on The Tourist Attractions of Ajmer, Pushkar, Jaipur, Bharatpur & Agra which was conducted during my degree of B.T.A.

It has been a true say that “You gain more knowledge by traveling 100 steps than by reading 1000 pages”.

Being practical is the best way to learn and gain knowledge. Theoretical knowledge can give guidelines, but the practical knowledge is must and the best way of learning things. Such kind of trips provide practical exposure and knowledge about the working of tourism industry.

Field trip reports are always helpful for a person to learn and gain several experience, which would help us in when we enter in industry of tourism.

I have given my best to prepare this field trip report and presented in the best manner that I could on Tourist Attractions of Ajmer, Pushkar, Jaipur, Bharatpur and Agra.

TOURISM IN INDIAThe tourism industry of India is economically important and is growing rapidly, the World Travel & Tourism Council calculated that tourism generated INR 6.4 trillion 6.6% of the nation's GDP in 2012. The sector is predicted to grow at an average annual rate of 7.9% from 2013 to 2023.This gives India the third rank among countries with the fastest growing tourism industries over the next decade. India has a large medical tourism sector which is expected to grow more and more in the future. According to World Tourism Visit  30% of world population visit Taj Mahal each year. This ranks India as the 38th country in the world in terms of foreign tourist arrivals. The most represented countries are the United States (16%) and the United Kingdom (12.6%). In 2011 Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Delhi were the most popular states for foreign tourists. Domestic tourists visited the states Uttar Pradesh ,   West Bengal , Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu most frequently.   Chennai ,   Delhi ,   Mumbai   and  Agra have been the four most visited cities of India by foreign tourists during the year 2011. Worldwide, Chennai   is ranked 41 by the number of foreign tourists, while Delhi   is ranked at 50 ,  Mumbai   at 57 .

The Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2013 ranks India 65 th

out of 144 countries overall. The report ranks the price competitiveness of India's tourism sector 20th out of 144 countries. It mentions that India has quite good air transport (ranked 39 th ) .India's rich history and its cultural and geographical diversity make its international tourism appeal large and diverse. It presents heritage and cultural tourism along with medical, business, educational and sports tourism

AjmerSouth west of Jaipur, Ajmer is an oasis wrapped in the green hills. The city was founded by Raja Ajay Pal Chauhan in the 7th Century A.D. and continued to be a major centre of the Chauhan power till 1193 A.D. Then Prithviraj Chauhan lost it to Mohammed Ghori, after which Ajmer became home to many dynasties. Today, Ajmer is a popular pilgrimage centre for the Muslims as well as Hindus. Especially famous is the Dargah Sharif-tomb of the Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti, which is equally revered both by the Hindus and the Muslims. Ajmer is a centre of culture and education. The British chose Ajmer for its prestigious Mayo College, a school exclusively for Indian nobility at one time. However, now it is one of the best public schools in the country. Ajmer is also the base for visiting Pushkar (14 km.).

Ajmer was also a favourite residence for the great Mughals. One of the first contacts between the Mughal King Jahangir and Sir Thomas Roe took place here in 1616. The Scindias took over the city in 1818 and then handed it over to the British. Thus Ajmer was the only region to be directly controlled by the East Indian Company.

Places of visit-

Dargah Khwaja Sahib It is the landmark of Ajmer and one of the holiest of Muslim shrines in the country. It has a secular appeal and revered by people of all sects. Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chisti, a Sufi saint from Persia made this place his abode from 1192 till he died in 1236 AD. Mughal King Humayun completed the construction of the shrine. The Dargah is approached through a massive gate with silver doors built in several stages. Emperor Akbar made an annual pilgrimage to Ajmer. Mughal Emperors Akbar and Shah Jahan have built mosques in the complex. The saint's tomb is in the centre of the second courtyard and the actual tomb inside is surrounded by a silver

railing and partly by a marble screen. The tomb is of marble and the dome is gold plated. Offerings generally consist of flowers, mainly roses and sweets. The aroma of burning incense sticks has a mesmerizing effect on the devotees. The mystic atmosphere inside the holy shrine is suffused with serenity, sanctity and spirituality.

There is an unending stream of devotees to the shrine throughout the year but its periphery show considerably more heightened all round activity when millions of devotees throng the shrine during the Urs fair. the entire city of Ajmer become alive in their presence. Urs is held on the seventh lunar month according to Islamic calendar but varies according to the solar calendar. Sufis and believers converge from all over India and abroad, as it is believed that those visiting the shrine during Urs receive special blessings of the saint. It is customary to cover your head while inside the complex. Accordingly, remember to carry a skullcap or a scarf. The skull-cap is on sale in the colourful market just outside the Dargah. It is also customary to make floral offerings, mainly of roses, incense sticks and sweets that are locally available.

5:00 am view of Dargah

Ana Sagar lakeIt is an artificial lake named after Anaji Chauhan. The catchments were built with the help of local populace. The 'Baradari' pavilions were built by Shah Jahan to facilitate his long stay in Ajmer. The Baradari and the adjoining parks are the lungs of city and favourite outing spots.

Scholar with the view of “Ana Sagar Lake”

PushkarPUSHKAR- the 'Pilgrim City' is a picturesque town 14 kms. from Ajmer. Known for its temples and lake, the Nag Pahar (Snake Mountain), which forms a part of chain of the Aravali ranges, stands between Ajmer and Pushkar. The road from Ajmer to Pushkar is a very interesting drive as the road winds through the Nag Pahar, leading to the ancient lake. The town situated around the beautiful lake is surrounded on three sides by hills, while the fourth side is cordoned by sands which have drifted from the plains of Marwar.

It is one of the most revered places for Hindus and referred as Tirth Raj or the king among places of pilgrimage, just as Kashi(Banaras) is their 'guru' or preceptor. No pilgrimage to Badri Nath(Himalayas), Jagannath (Orissa), Rameshwaram (Tamil Nadu) and Dwarka (Gujarat), the four principal places of pilgrimage for the Hindus is complete till the pilgrims bath in the sacred waters of Pushkar.

According to Padma Puran, the Hindu religious text, Lord Brahma was in search of suitable place for a Vedic yagna. While contemplating, a lotus fell down from his hand on the earth and water spurted from three places, one of them being Pushkar and Lord Brahma decided to perform his yagna over here.

Places of visit-

Jagat Pita Shree Brahma TemplePUSHKAR- is a flourishing temple town full of religious myths and faiths, the biggest attraction being the temple of Lord Brahma-Lord of Creation this is the only existing temple dedicated to Lord Brahma in India.

A beautifully carved silver turtle sits on the floor facing the sanctum -sanctorum or garbha-griha. The marble floor around the silver turtle is embedded with hundreds of silver coins; silver coins with the donor's names engraved on them are also inset in the walls of the temple.

Peacocks adorn the temple walls as they are believed to be the vehicle of Goddess Saraswati - the goddess of wisdom and the consort of Lord Brahma. A small image of milkmaid Gayatri, flanks the four faced image of Lord Brahma and is known as Chaumurti. The sanctuary has silver doors inside a carved marble gateway. Steps in the corner lead to a small cave dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Brahma Temple

Pushkar LakeThe pious Pushkar Lake, believed to have been created by the falling of a lotus from the hand of Lord Brahma. It is considered to be as old as creation.

As per the Hindu Mythology there are Panch Sarovar (Five Lakes) namely Man sarovar, Bindu Sarovar, Narayan Sarovar, Pampa Sarovar and Pushkar Sarovar.

The lake is considered as one of the most sacred spots, and believed that one dip in the waters of the lake on Kartika Poornima is equivalent to performing yagnas for several hundred years.

The charming lake amidst the hills has fifty-two bathing ghats, built around lake. The water around each ghat is supposed to have special powers.

For complete cleansing of sins, three twilights must be passed at the pious city with baths at three Ghats.

Morning view of “Pushkar Lake”

JaipurIf we talk about travel and tourism, the fact says that before traveling to any of region one must be sprinkled with basic information about the place so as to make the tour more interesting and sophisticated. With the growing statistics, Jaipur is one such tourist spot where people from all the world wants to take part in increasing their knowledge about Rajasthani culture and values it shares with the part of the world. 

City PalaceOne of the historic architectural heritage of Jaipur city is City Palace which gives a holistic experience to the International and domestic tourist. City Palace is an overwhelming complex of exquisite palaces, gardens and courtyards, decorative art and carved doorways.

City Palace one of the major tourist attraction fascinated by marvelous architecture of Mughal and Rajput and European style of architecture is a official residence of Maharaja of Jaipur and Royal family resides in Chandra Mahal. Since 1959, The palace is opened to the General public and International visitor’s as a museum.

History of City Palace :In 1727, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, shifted their capital from Amber to Jaipur and from 1729-32, the city palace was built.

Beautiful “City Palace”

Jantar mantar- “The house of instruments”

The king of the pink city, Maharaja Jai Singh II was a smart king who had believes in the astronomy. Between 1727 and 1734, he built an observatory in the western central regions of India, and jaipur was one of them. The observatory was named as “jantar mantar”. He constructed five such unique forms in which jaipur was the largest and preserved of them all. It is known as “The expression of the astronomical skills and cosmological concepts of the court of a scholarly prince at the end of the Mughal period.” The name jantar mantar means the calculation instrument. A keen astronomer major Arthur Garrett built this observatory keeping in mind the astronomical concepts and analysis.

Jantar Mantar consists of fourteen geometric devices which can measure time, predict eclipse, track stars with the location of earth orbiting around the sun, decline of planets and determining the celestial altitudes. All the instruments in general are large structures attributing the specific prediction. Declared as the national monument in 1948, every instrument has its own uniqueness built by the stones and marbles carrying an astronomical scale. The unique characteristics of each instrument individually share a place of pride in the book of the pink city.

Samrat Yantra also known as sundial, the largest of the entire instruments is plotted to predict the time of the day. Probably jantar mantar is the only practical proof left for the Vedic astrology other than texts. Many instruments carry specific astrological meaning serving to the society and the universe.

Stunning view of “Jantar Mantar”

Nahargarh Fort : A history and Legacy

Rajasthan, the courageous and vivid state of Indian is celebrated for its imperial legacy and tradition. Created by the unification of several significant states that was under the control of spirited Rajputs, the multi-hued state of Rajasthan has countless citadels, forts and fortresses. In addition, a number of these forts and palaces in Rajasthan are related to significant past occurrences. In the same way, the famous Nahargarh Fort in Jaipur, in company with the other 2 forts (Amer Fort & Jaigarh Fort) created a tough protection for the city of Jaipur city a long time ago. Established by the great Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in the year 1734, Nahargarh Fort was formerly known as “Sudarshangarh Fort”. Soon after, the fort was offered the name, Nahargarh meaning “Dwelling of Tigers”. Since Nahargarh Fort is placed on one of prehistoric hill ranges of the world named the Aravalli mountain ranges, this famous fort offers a magnificent vision of the picturesque surroundings to the visitors. Being a key sightseeing spot of Jaipur, Nahargarh Fort is famous for its extensive wall which hooks it up to the celebrated Jaigarh Fort.

Outside view of “Nahargarh Fort”

Unbeatable Jaigarh Fort in Jaipur, Rajasthan

The Jaigarh fort in Rajasthan is most amazing forts of the 3 hilltop fortresses that dominates the pink city of Jaipur. Jaigarh fort is also called as the “Victory Fort of Rajasthan”. This fort proudly stands at the heart of thorn-scrub Mountains of Rajasthan that convey a sterner appearance to the other arresting Forts. Jaigarh fort is placed at a distance of about 15kms from Jaipur. As you reach the fort from the vertical road that leads to the central gateway, the “Dungar Darwaza”, you definitely will comment on the astonishing vision that the fort endows to the city underneath. The Jaigarh fort was established between 15th and 18th century to reinforce the protection of Amer. This fort has nice moats and all the other aspects that a tourist would look forward to of a qualified fortress.

Jaigarh Fort

The Most Precious Gem of Jaipur : Amer Fort

When we talk about the Jaipur then it is not possible that we could ignore the Amer fort. It is most beautiful fort and the pride of Jaipur. Amer fort is also spelled, known and pronounced as Amber Fort. It is located in Amer, 11 k.m from Jaipur. It is one of the major tourist attractions, located high on hill. The fort is remarkable for its majestic grandeur, surroundings, battles and beautiful palaces and halls. Fort is known for its Indian Artistic Style, blending Hindu and Rajputs elements. Amer Fort has the marvelous decoration influenced by both, the Hindu and Muslim manner of ornamentation. Tourists simply astonish by intricate carving on the walls and ceilings. Exquisite paintings of hunting scenes on the walls depict the temperament of the Rajputs, who were extremely revolutionary, adventurous, and self-indulgent. Its Indian architecture includes large ramparts, series of gates; the fort overlooks the ‘Maota Lake’, at its forefront.

Man Singh began the construction of a fortress-palace of white and red sandstone i.e. Amer Fort in 1592. He was the Kacchwaha (Rajput) of King of Amber, a state later known as Jaipur.

Scholar and beautiful views of “Amer Fort”

Sisodia Rani Garden

Sisodia Rani Garden, personifies the love of King Sawai Jai Singh towards his Queen Sisodia from Udaipur. In 1728, King Sawai Jai Singh built this beautiful garden which is located 10 Km from Jaipur on the Jaipur-Agra Highway road for his adorable wife. As the name suggest, the garden was named after hisQueen Sisodia Jai Singh. The garden was entitled as the gateway for the Queen. The garden serves as the best example of nature’s beauty and elegance. The garden is not only the perfect mode to connect oneself to the nature but also the never ending love of the great paramour Radha-Krishna.

The garden was built with respect to the Mughal architecture imbibed from the theme of unending and immortal lovers in the history of India, i.e. Radha-Krishna. The Sisodia Rani Garden is filled with the fragrance of extensive and stupendous denotation of love and affection by the medium of the beautiful murals depicting scenes form the life of lord Radha-Krishna. The pavilions are painted the image of Radha-Krishna which is a treat to each and every visitor who appreciate and comprehend the love story of great Radha-Krishna.

The garden is the perfect resonation of multi-level cold frame with fountains, water courses, painted pavilions and galleries. At that time, the garden acted as a treat for ladies from royal families and crowned heads dynasty.

Beauty of “Sisodia Garden”

HAWA MAHAL-Palace of Winds

Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, the king of Jaipur was a prominent person from a royal family who was known for his excellence and knowledge in the whole globe. His establishments in the city Jaipur are the amazing piece of art elaborating the ravishing and breathe taking exemplar of knowledge and brain. Along with excellence, the king of Jaipur was very peculiar about the culture of the city which is filled with rich heritage of the state. Till today, the Rajasthani people and culture shares a unique residence which exceptionally defines the richness of their values and customs. One of his achievements in the same is defined by“HawaMahal”. The establishment of this famous monument redefines the creativity and excellence of mind used in daily pleasure activities. One such renowned monument in Jaipur famous for its excellent architecture and concept is HAWA MAHAL. Hawa mahal is also known as “palace of winds”. Jaipur Hawa Mahal is one of the best Jaipur tourists places to the guests and tourist in pinkcity. Every guests and tourists are recorded to be impressed by the architecture and the history behind the establishment of royal palace of winds.

Beauty Of Hawa Mahal

Hawa Mahal is the five storey palace which is located in heart and soul of the pinkcity which was established in the year 1799 under the rule of Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh. The architecture of the building is so build that it concrete the shape of a pyramid with total of 953 windows uniquely carved in the Rajasthani pattern and designs. Lal Chand ustad, the architect of Hawa Mahal was told to build this palace in order to enjoy the view of nature by the windows which serves the purpose of freezing winds inside the palace.

Talking about its architecture, palace shares the height of 50 feet from ground designed in the manner of a castle along with small windows. One interesting fact about Hawa Mahal states that the thickness of the walls of the palace are even lesser than a foot but beautifully carved on thin shield with erect position. The name Hawa Mahal was given to the palace, as the winds blowing in the palace were freezing and creating a soothing

surrounding in the palace. out of the five storey, the top three storey of the palace have a thickness of a room with bottom two storey furnished with beautifully designed courtyards on the three sides of the palace. The place ensures the beautiful and breathe taking views of the entire city from the city which feels like the royal glimpse of the city under the open sky.

One may not be aware of the fact that the appearance of this palace resembles to the crown of Lord Krishna in the form of peacock feathers. King Sawai Pratap singh was a biggest devotee of Lord Krishna and thus created this idea of building Hawa Mahal as a dedication to his almighty. Hawa Mahal is registered as one exemplar portraying dignity and honor of the city in the history pages of Rajasthan. The palace of winds plays a vital role in uplifting the social and renowned responsibilities which is running from more than a decade ago by the kings of the city.

Magnificent view of “Hawa Mahal”

Jalmahal in Amber Valley

It is been evident to the residents of Pink City that Rajasthan High Court has released orders on 17th May 2012 to retain the heritage look of Jalmahal. Also the lease has been cancelled which stated that the precious part of the Jalmahal’s land would be allotted to a private firm for 99 years on an annual terms of Rs 2.50 crores.

Being a resident of Jaipur, I whole heartedly feel that any organization, body or govt. has no right to allow any company or firm to modify or play with the heritage of the city. This entire project owned by a private firm who was planning to develop luxury hotel on the precious property. It all happened in order to provide huge profit to the firm through form of rebates at several phases to bring the project into action. But, the people of Jaipur did not stand quiet and did not keep our eyes closed. This is the outcome of protest from the mass and other organization. Thanks a lot to the efforts put in altogether to save our own property.

According to the imagery published in a local daily newspaper of Jaipur, the total lake area of Jalmahal had been reduced down. Earlier it used to touch the road called Ramgarh Mod.

View of “Jalmahal” from the busThe Stunning Birla temple in Jaipur!!

Albeit the pink city of Jaipur is renowned for massive forts, it is eminent for the temples by the same token. One of the most excellent temples among all others is the Birla Temple. Birla temple is popularly known as the Laxmi Narayan Temple. This temple is one among the numerous temples that were constructed by the illustrious the Birla family. The Birla Temple is positioned beneath the famous Moti Dungri Fort in the pink city of Jaipur. Birla temple, a famous architectural milestone of Jaipur is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and deity Lakshmi. Beautifully constructed in untainted white marble, the Birla Temple is distinct among the long-established primeval Hindu temples that are constructed using contemporary techniques. Imprints of Hindu symbols as well as prehistoric citations from sacred book Bhagvat Geeta & Upanishads embellish the walls of this charming shrine. Birla temple, a masterpiece strictly symbolizes the architectural charisma in a contemporary way.

The Past of Birla temple:The legendary Birla temple was established at some stage in 1980s. This temple is illustrious for its wonderful architectural marvel then the statues.

Beautiful “Birla Mandir” of Jaipur

Albert Hall Museum

Albert Hall Museum is the oldest museum in the Jaipur city of Rajasthan. It was designed by Colonel Sir Swinton Jacob in 1876 to greet King Edward VII as Prince of Wales was on his visit to India. It was made open to public after 10 years. The museum is situated at the center of Ram Nivas  Baug.

 It displays rare articles including textiles, carpets, paintings, metal and wood crafts, pottery, arms and weapons, flora and fauna of the state, toys, dolls and even an Egyptian mummy, ivory, stone, metal sculptures, colourful crystal works etc. In this museum, one gallery is dedicated to Mehndi, body art and great Rajasthani motifs and designs.

Historic “Albert Hall Museum”

BharatpurThis magnificent bird haven actually came into being ironically, as a duck shooting preserve for Maharaja Suraj Mal of Bharatpur. He transformed the shallow depression formed by the confluence of River Gambhir and River Banganga into a reservoir by damming the rainwater in monsoons. Flooding of water created shallow wetland ecosystem causing it to be a perfect habitat for an astounding variety of birds. The park that was a hunting preserve for the Maharaja and the British continued to be so till 1964, after which the hunting was banned.

A forestation policy of planting acacias was vigorously followed. However, the ecosystem at the Park continues to be fragile due to pressure of tourism and need for water from surrounding villages. The environmentalists won the day in 1985 when UNESCO listed it as World Heritage site and, earlier in 1982 it was declared as National Park. And, today the Park is recognised as one of the most important breeding and feeding grounds for the birds in the world. Some species are still endangered – in fact, the Siberian Crane has not been seen for many years. Visitors are advised to maintain a low noise level and avoid littering the park.

The Park opens from sunrise to sunset around the year. The ticket is Rs 200 per foreign visitor and Rs 25 for Indian visitor. Vehicles are permitted upto Shanti Kutir about 1.7 kilometres inside at Rs 50 per vehicle. From there on you can choose to walk, bicycle, or go by cycle rickshaw or tonga as also by boat when the water level is high. The cycle rickshaw wallahs displaying yellow plates authorised to double up as guides also carry binoculars. Hotels supply packed lunches and you can get a bite at a canteen at the second gate and even at the Forest Lodge.

The Bharatpur habitat supports an amazing range of birds. For most visitors, however, the Park is evocative of the Siberian Crane (a winter migrant) and their journey to this wetland is well documented. However, as mentioned earlier, this species has not been seen for the past few years.

During the monsoons (July to September), the wetlands are home to huge colonies of birds that breed and feed here. Some of the species that can be seen at the wetlands are Storks, Moorhens, Herons, Flamingos and Pelicans, Geese and Ducks, Egrets and Cormorants.

Other wildlife includes Sambhar, Nilgai, Cheetal and Black Buck. The habitat also includes nocturnal Leopard, Jungle Cat, Hyena and Fox. Amongst the rarity one can even sight a python in the Park.

Siberian Crane

The Siberian crane normally used to come to Keoladeo before December and stayed till March, a trail that had been for so many years.

Braving all the frost and snowstorm of the Gobi desert and the Himalayas, the Sibes or Siberian cranes chose to come all the way to bask in the warmth of Bharatpur during the winter months. Happily they flew in plenty before Bharatpur’s Maharaja formally created Ghana.

There are many causes to this regrettable lessening. A pair of breeding cranes raises only one chick a year, and though the adult stands more than a mighty four feet tall, the tiny young ones often become food for predatory shorebirds, gulls and dogs. En route their migration to Bharatpur they have to face dangers that are even more dangerous than the hostile terrain – guns.

Storks

Out of 17 species in the world, seven are sighted in Keoladeo sanctuary. The most visible of these are the ungainly painted stork. The birds nest in the high branches of Babul Trees. Another nester is small open bill stork and the black mantle. The black naked and white necked storks are usually shy birds and rarely seen in the community.

Cormorants and Darters

These fish-hunting birds are strong fliers and are seen occupying several trees in large community. These elegant birds breed during monsoon. There are three varieties of cormorants in the sanctuary. The elegant Indian darter is also known as the snake bird for its thin winding neck and head.

Spoonbills and Ibises

They are seen in large numbers at the sanctuary. The spoonbill has a long bill and the ibis has a slender and down curved beak. They often hunt shoals of fishes in groups. The sanctuary is home to white, black and glossy ibis.

Herons and Egrets

Herons nest in heronries that can be seen amongst mixed nesting colonies. They include common grey, purple, night and pond herons. Egrets are also found in large variety like the large, intermediate, little and cattle egrets.

Pelicans and Flamingos

Large pelicans can be seen in shallow water in groups and are recognisable by their characteristic appearance. Rosy, grey and dalmatian varieties are sighted at the park. Flamingos are usually seen at the onset of the monsoon.

Geese and Ducks

Greylag and bar-headed are two species of geese seen in winters at the parks. The ducks are also seen in numbers and variety. It was due to ducks that this was made into a hunting preserve for duck shooting. Amongst the variety sighted at the sanctuary are ruddy shelduck, common shelduck, common teal, mallard, gadwall, wigeon, shovelor, pochards and tufted duck.

Note: Keoladeo National Park(Ghana) remains closed in May and June for tourist visit.

AgraAgra is also known as the Land of palaces. Not just palaces, it also has a lot of intricate and beautiful architecture. Even the tombs are elaborately adorned. Agra is the perfect spot for a tourist and students of Architecture. Even the climate in Agra is very inviting and suitable. The city is well designed, where even the houses show huge detailing in their design. On close inspection, even the interiors of the buildings show the unreal imagination that the architects probably had. Every building, looks like it had been designed to adorn the city, designed artistically from every angle. Even the food speaks greatly about the spicy Indian Cuisine. It is a city with rich cultural, historical, architectural and religious attachments. It is a city which is synonymous with the history of India. Over the centuries it has enriched the nation with its philosophical contributions. Agra is one of the most important favorite destinations of the world wide travel lovers owing to its exceptional collection of religious places, monuments, forts, palaces and other places. 

Places to See in Agra The heritage of the Mughal dynasty and their fascinating tombs, forts and mausoleums can be easily observed in and around the city of Agra. There are also other monuments and places that are famous for their beauty and significance in Agra

Taj MahalThe Taj Mahal is more than just a mausoleum - it is has been described by the poet Rabindranath Tagore as a "teardrop on the cheek of eternity". As an expression of the height of the Mughal dynasty's architectural genius in the Indian subcontinent, as the symbol of a bereaved emperor's love for his empress, and as an inspiration to countless photographers and artists who have tried to capture its many subtle nuances of light and shade, the Taj Mahal continues to captivate people worldwide with its history, its design, and its symbolism of eternal love.

About the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is an integrated complex of structures that include a white marble mausoleum containing the tombs of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan (1592 - 1666) and his third wife Mumtaz Mahal (1953-1631). The Mughal dynasty built many mausoleums in the Indian subcontinent but the Taj Mahal is undoubtedly the finest. The mausoleum is built entirely of white marble, set on a high base or plinth which includes four tall minarets, one on each corner. On either side of the tomb are a mosque and a guest house, while the tomb faces a garden laid out in the "charbagh" style, with a central walkway with fountains and viewing platforms with green spaces and trees on either side.

Location of the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is located in Agra, in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is located on the banks of the River Yamuna in Agra. 

How to Reach the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is located in Agra, in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Agra is about 200 km from Delhi (165 if you use the Yamuna Expressway)

and is easily accessible by flights, roadways and train services. The travel time from Delhi to Agra by road is just over 3 hours by road. In order to minimize the effects of pollution, vehicles are not allowed in the immediate vicinity of the Taj Mahal.

Best Time To Visit the Taj Mahal

The best time to visit the Taj Mahal is in the autumn, winter and spring months from October to February. The peak summer months of May to July are best avoided because of the hot weather. The months of October and November,after the monsoon, offer the sight of the Taj at its mesmerising best, as the gardens are lush with greenery and the Yamuna river flows proudly past the Taj Mahal, swollen with post-monsoon rain. Both these factors enhance the overall experience of viewing the Taj Mahal. 

Taj Mahal Timings

The Taj Mahal complex is open for visitors from sunrise to sunset (6 a.m. to 7 p.m.) on all weekdays, with the exception of Friday. On Fridays the mosque in the Taj Mahal complex is open for prayers from 12 noon to 2 p.m. At this time tourists are not permitted to enter the complex. 

On full-moon nights, and one night before and after a full-moon, the Taj Mahal complex is open for visitors who wish to view the Taj by moonlight - a truly spectacular sight. The moonlight viewing sessions are not permitted during the month of Ramadan and on Fridays. 

While travelling to the Taj Mahal complex, do note that security restrions apply at the complex and the only items a tourist may carry into the grounds are the following: mobile phones, still cameras, small video cameras, small purses carried by ladies, and water in transparent bottles. 

Taj Mahal Entry Fee

The entry fees for the Taj Mahal are different for Indian and international tourists.

Foreign tourists: INR 750/

Citizens of SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) and BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Maldives, Myanmar, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Thailand: 510/-

Indians: Rs. 20/-

Tickets for the Taj Mahal can be purchased at any of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India.

There is no Entry fee for children below the age of 15 years, irrespective of whether they are Indians or Foreigners.

One of the wonders of the world “The Taj Mahal”

Agra Fort

Agra Red Fort was designed and built by the great Mughal ruler, Akbar, in about 1565 A.D. It was initially built as a military establishment but later on his successors made many additions to the main structure.

The Red Fort is situated in Agra, Uttar pradesh on the banks of Yamuna River. It is known as Red Fort because it is built of a kind of red sandstone.

The Red Fort in Agra encompasses a radius of three kilometers and is bordered by a wall, which is 70 foot tall. Two walls made of red sandstone surround the fort. The Red Fort has four gates. 

Another feature of this fort is the light and sound show presented to you in both the languages(english and hindi)

Visiting Time and Entry Fee 

The Red Fort in Agra remains open from sunrise till the setting of the sun, to welcome the visitors. The best time of the year for places to visit in Agra is from November to February. Children under the age of twelve will have the privilege to enter without any ticket. However, the adults will need to buy tickets worth five rupees to enter Red Fort. 

Historical part of Agra “Agra Fort”

Akbar’s Tomb

Built solely for the great Mughal emperor, the Akbar Tomb was built in 1605-1613. It covers a good area of 119 acres in the Sikandra. It was Akbar himself who initiated the works in 1600 as per the Tartary tradition. Located in the suburbs, about a kilometer away lies the tomb of Miriam, Akbar's wife. The southern gate is similar to those of the Taj Mahal with 4 white marble chhatri and also serves as the entrance to the tomb. A wall of 105m square surrounds the tomb. The fake tomb is located in the marble pavilion placed inside a 4 tier pyramid building while the true tomb is safely kept in the basement. The building is made up of red sandstones with touches of white marble.

Timings: Open all days from sunrise to sunset. 

Entry Fee: Rs.110 for foreign tourist and Rs.10 for Indian tourist. 

Tomb of Mughal Ruler Akbar the Great

Moti Masjid

Among the holy places in Agra, Moti Masjid holds a special place. Proudly known as the pearl white, it was said to have been built by Shah Jahan for worship for the court members. Its artwork and beauty stamps the rich craftsmanship of India. Built between the years 1648 and 1654, it cost Rs. 1,60,000 to complete the works. It is made of 12 arches facing from the North, East and South. The main entrance is located on the eastern side, and the prayer chamber is ornamented with intricate designs adding glory to it. It is unique in its own way, with Hindu style kiosks which decorate the parapet. Consisting of 7 bays, it boasts of its white marble luxury. The Moti Masjid stands on grounds that slope from east to west.

Beautiful “Moti Masjid”  

Fatehpur Sikri

The 16th and 17th century marked a revolution as a brilliant phase showcasing art and architecture in Indian history. Agra and its adjoining areas hold testimony to some of the finest examples of Mughal architecture, style and culture. Fatehpur Sikri or "The City of Victory" in Agra district in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India stands as an epic in red sandstone. Founded by the great Mughal emperor Akbar in 1579 it remained his capital for around 10 years. The city besides reflecting the architectural excellence gives us a picture of system of administration, social structure and the rich culture and civilization of that era. Today this ghost city is marked as one of the most important buildings in the list of World Heritage Structures by the UNESCO and attracts both national and international visitors.

Some of the main attractions of the city are: 

Diwan-i-Khas :

 A big hall known as the ldquo; Ekstambha Prasad. It served as the royal meeting hall of Emperor Akbar where important discussions and decisions were made by the emperor with his royal courtiers. Designed following the Persian style of architecture it is decorated with fascinating sculpture and precious stones. In the middle of the court 4 kiosks are located. 

Panch Mahal :

 Considered as most exquisite and elegant buildings in Fatehpur Sikri. Panch Mahal, the five-storey building, was the abode of the royal ladies and mistresses. The panoramic view of the surrounding area from the top storey is quite enchanting. 

Tomb of Salim Chisti :

 The tomb of famous Sufi saint Sheikh Salim Chisti built in the compound of Fathepur Sikri is considered the most divine place by the pilgrims and devotees. The tomb is beautifully crafted with fine carvings. 

Jama Masjid :

 Jama Masjid/Jami Masjid also known as the "Friday Mosque" was built in 1648 by Shah Jahan and dedicated to his loving daughter Jahanara Begum. This beautiful mosque considered to be one of the largest mosques in India with its awesome architecture was compared with Baitul-Mamur believed to be situated in the fourth sky decorated with rubies and pearls. While visiting the masjid complex one need to dress up accordingly and knees should be properly covered. 

Buland Darwaza :

 The enormous gateway of the city The Buland Darwaza with a height of 54 meters is the largest gateway in the world. The gate was constructed in 1575 to celebrate Emperor Akbar's success in conquering Gujarat. It reflects a fine synthesis of Persion and Mughal architecture. 

Other attractions in Fatehpur Sikri are Diwan-I-Am, Turkish Sultana, Daulat khana-I-khas, Palace of Jodha Bai, Hawa Mahal And Nagina Masjid. 

Timings Open daily from sunrise to sunset. Entry fee for adults and children above 12 years is Rs. 5.00. Entry on Friday is free. 

You can visit the city of your own or avail a local guide. The best time to experience and explore this historic extravaganza is from November to February. 

Location and how to reach  

Situated at a distance of about 37 km from Agra this is a must see destination that gives you a feel of the royal and rich heritage of the Mughal Dynasty. Regular bus services of UPSRTC, tourist buses and luxury cab are available. Fatehpur Sikri railway station is just 1 km from the city center. One can avail flight to Agra and then go by road to Fatehpur Sikri.

Some beautiful pictures clicked of “Fatehpur Sikri”

Conclusion And Suggestions

Rajasthan is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India, for both domestic and international tourists.

Rajasthan, the largest state of India is located in the north-western part of the subcontinent. It is bounded to the north and north-east by the states of Punjab and Haryana, to the east and south-east by the states of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, to the south-west by the state of Gujarat, and to the west and north-west by Pakistan. The southern part of the state is about 225km from the Gulf of Kutch and about 400 km from the Arabian Sea. Jaipur is the capital city and lies in the east-central part of the state.

Rajasthan   attracts tourists for its historical forts, palaces, art and culture. Every third foreign tourist visiting India also travels to Rajasthan as it is part of the Golden Triangle for tourists visiting India.

Tourism accounts for eight percent of the state's domestic product. Many old and neglected palaces and forts have been converted into heritage hotels. Tourism has increased employment in the hospitality sector.

Time of visit is suggested to be from mid-October to mid-March as it is very hot in the summers. The main languages spoken in this state are mainly Rajasthani and Hindi