MONUMENTS Location : Uttar Pradesh Famous Monuments : Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri, Agra Fort, Sikandara Famous Pilgrimage : Mathura & Vrindavan, Varanasi, Allahabad and Sarnath

Monuments In Uttar Pradesh - The Land of Exotica

Taj Mahal Fatehpur Sikri

Agra Fort Historical Overview

Agra Capital City of Lucknow

The rich archaeological heritage of Uttar Pradesh can be characterized by amazing artistry of human hands from the ancient times to the contemporary. This is evident by the presence of thousands of sites, remains, and monuments of archaeologically distinct dynasties, nestling in almost every nook and corner of the state. These human creations represent various facets of history, art and architecture, language and trade, associated with those times.

The cities of Lucknow, Agra, and Fatehpur Sikri are the hub of tourist destination full of the imprints of past glory safely preserved and nurtured over the times. The world's best architectural marvel, Taj Mahal has honored the sub-continent of India, at the same time Buland Darwaza of Fatehpur Sikri and the Bara Imambara of Lucknow were no less in praises received all over the world. Right from the ancient monuments to the modern ones, forts to palaces, mosques to mausoleums, temples to monasteries, there is everything in Uttar Pradesh that will make your trip a dream come true.

Taj Mahal - Symbol of Love

Taj Mahal, Agra

Taj Mahal has been considered as one of the most beautiful and incomparable piece of architecture also known as the 7th wonder of the world. The Mughal emperor Shahjahan commissioned it as a mausoleum for his beloved Mumtaz Mahal in the capital city of Agra. The garden (Charbagh), tome, dome, minarets each part of the Taj is decorated with various designs of calligraphy, carving, abstract geometric elements, vegetative motifs and inlay marbles. The jali and details of lapidary are also worth looking. The sighting of this heavenly glory across river Yamuna in moonlight night will definitely cast a spell on you.

Agra Fort - City of The Red Sandstone.

The famous Agra fort lies on the way to Taj and is less than two kilometers away from the Taj Mahal. The construction of the fort was initiated by Akbar and completed during Shahjahans reign. On your visit to the fort dont forget to compare the Agra fort with its counter part Red Fort in Delhi. You will be amazed to know that the mighty Agra fort is much bigger in size. The Delhi Gate and the Amar Singh Gate are the two main entrances of the fort. The fort consists of a number of buildings of tourist interests such as Jehangiri Mahal, Khas Mahal, Musamman Burj, Diwani-i-Khas, Sheesh Mahal etc. Most of these buildings depict a mixture of different architectural styles.

Fatehpur Sikri - Treasure Revealed

Fatehpur Sikri Ruins

Fatehpur Sikri is only 37 kilometers away from the Agra and the famous Monument City in Uttar Pradesh. This town is completely built in red sandstone and has been recognized as one of the world heritage site. Fatehpur Sikri presents the best example of the culmination of Hindu and Muslim architecture and at the same time Mughal architectural splendor. There are many exciting attractions in Fatehpur Sikri such as Buland Darwaza, Diwan-khanai-khaas, The Treasury, Turkish Sultana's House, Palace of Jodha Bai, Panch Mahal etc. Fatehpur Sikri also comprises of a numerous palaces, halls and Masjids in typical Mughal fashion. Fatehpur Sikri Mosque is said to be a copy of the mosque in Mecca and has designs, derived from the Persian & Hindu architecture. The urban spaces and the buildings of this heritage city capture the imagination and wonder of all that experience it.

Bada Imambara - Lost In The Labyrinth Architectural Marvel

Among all other monuments in Uttar Pradesh, Bada Imambara has its own renowned place, well known for its exquisite Mughal architecture and intricate narrow passages that will lead you nowhere. Designed especially for enemies to get bewailed in its confined paths and hence never able to find their way out. Many of the stairway leads to deep dark wells, which are now, close down by the authorities for security reasons. These 489 identical galleries and corridors in the upper structure form a complicated and intricate puzzle make it impossible to find a way hence its always advisable to accompany a guide whose interesting tales will keep you involve and you will not get stuck in the creativity of the designer. Try to break out the riddle yourself by finding your way upwards till you reach the terrace, one on top you have break the puzzle, enjoy the panoramic view of the Lucknow city from here, your all loss energy will be regained.

Asaf-Ud-Daulla an inveterate builder of Bada Imambara constructed in 1784 which took six years, and hence become one of the ambitious discoverers of the glory of the ancient heritage. The Bada Imamabara also known as the Asafai Imambara is considered as a monumental feat. Keeping the fact in mind that it once boasted the largest vaulted hall in the world with the height of 50 feet high roof, spanning an area of 162 feet in the absence of a single beam. Bara Imambara is easily accessible as it is centrally located just 20 kilometers away from the city there is an international airport.

Dhamekh Stupa - Temple of Peace And Prosperity

Dhamekh Stupa, Sarnath

The Dhamekh Stupa is one of the sacred places for the followers of Buddhist faith. This massive structure at Sarnath is built partly in brick and partly in stone, with 28 meter in diameter at the base and 43.6 meter in height. Dhamekh Stupa has a particular significance at Sarnath as it signifies the place where Buddha delivered his first sermon to five disciples. Archaeologists believe that the Stupa was built here by the emperor Ashoka named Dhameka to mark the spot where Lord Buddha preached the Dharamchakrapavartana (Set in motion the wheel of law). While on visit to this place don't forget to examine the smooth glistening stone pillar that commemorates the King Ashoka's visit to this holy place called Ashoka pillar with loin capital on its top. The lion capital became the National Emblem of India.

Other Important Monuments

The other important monuments of the state are Itam-Ud-Daulla Tomb also known as mini Taj and Kalinjari Fort. About the Daulla tomb it is said that it has became the source of inspiration for Shahjahan to build the Taj Mahal. The Kalinjari fort is believed to be built in the 7th century by Kedar Burman, the King of Chandela Dynasty. Remember to mention the names of these monuments while charting out the tour programme to Uttar Pradesh. The architecture and design is amazing and you will find the experience great.

Heritage Remains The Biggest Draw

The monumental heritage of the state of Uttar Pradesh has become its identity. To name few the ancient architecture, Mughal architecture, Hindu architecture and the colonial architecture have left a vestige behind them. Being on the banks of the river Ganga at the time of sunrise and under the moon light at Taj are the very special moments one can remember in his life. Are you going to feel it never mind being late! Plan your tour at the earliest, before it is spotted by the hoarders, going for sight-seeing, tasting the cuisines, spending some time for yoga and finally shopping at the festivals held in the state from time to time.