Agra is famously known as the city of the Taj Mahal, located in the state of Uttar Pradesh. The historically rich city lived its golden age when it was the capital of the Mughal empire, between 1526 and 1658. However, Agra was founded much earlier with references in the Mahabharata. A famous attraction for tourist from across the globe and country, Agra, boasts three UNESCO World Heritage sites, the grand Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. Along with this, there are many other monuments and tombs that together add to Agra's glory and attract history buffs to the previously glorious capital of the Mughal Empire. These sites are some of the most visited architectural wonders of the world and no trip to India is complete without a visit to the majestic Taj.
Problems faced when exploring Agra –
Although, a popular tourist destination in Uttar Pradesh, Agra is crowded and loud, which can be overwhelming to many tourists who embark here to explore the Taj and other architectural wonders of the Mughal era.
The increasing tourist footfall and the lack of proper management around the city takes a toll on the tourists who wish to explore. The constant sounds, pollution, smog and litter, is widespread. One of the most bothersome things tourist face when touring Agra is the swarms of hawkers and unofficial guides crowding every monument, mosque, temple and palace. This puts tourists at a risk of getting ripped off and cheated.
The constant mayhem surrounding the city can baffle even the domestic tourists, let alone the foreign tourists.
Few Ways to Have an Enjoyable Trip –
Pre-book Hotels in Agra –
When arriving in Agra for a trip, it is advised one must always pre-book their hotels in Agra to ensure a good rate. There are many guides and hawkers who try to lure travellers into bookings through them, which may fraudulent or overpriced. There are numerous hotels in Agra, ranging from budget hotels to lavish 5-star hotels in Agra's prime localities. One can make a booking through reputable travel websites or the hotel's own website.
Five-star hotels in Agra are recommended for travellers who wish to have an enjoyable time, without burden or stress. These prominent Agra hotels are no less of palaces offering every modern-day amenity one can desire. These hotels also have private transport, airport transfers, and abundance of recreational activities that help one rejuvenate away from the bustling city.
One must note, that many of the best hotels in Agra may be overbooked in the peak tourist seasons, hence pre-booking before travel is recommended to land the best rates and assured room in the best Agra hotels.
Early bird discounts and promotions are offered by 5-star hotels in Agra to attract tourists. One can make optimal savings by setting price drop alerts or opting for travel packages with Agra Hotels.
Official Guides –
The golden rule of a safe trip to Agra is opting for official tour guides when visiting the monuments of prime importance in and around the city. The best hotels in Agra have an affiliation with official tour guides who offer safe and convenient tours of the city and monuments. When visiting the Taj, one must refrain from socializing with smooth-talking individuals who may even seem very sociable.
Travel Forex Cards –
It is recommended one does not travel to Agra with loads of cash for expenditure. Lower denomination bills for tips, rickshaw fares, shopping and entrances would suffice. One must try to carry forex cards in case they wish to make payments for hotels, food and more.
It is advised, one not socialise with strangers or invite them to the Agra hotel where one is residing, to ensure a safe and hassle-free trip. Agra is a city worth visiting once in every individual's life. The above tips can help one have an enjoyable time when exploring the architectural wonders of the Mughal ear.
Martin Wynn
