Agra is the only city in the world that boasts of three UNESCO World Heritage Sites - theTaj Mahal, the Agra Fort and the old capital of Fatehpur Sikri. All legacies of the Mughal Empire fromthe 16th and <strong>17</strong>th centuries. It is no wonder then that Agra is the most visited destination in India.The Taj Mahal, built in 1653, has been described as the most extravagant tribute to love. Thepoignant mausoleum of its creator, Emperor Shahjahan and his beloved queen, Mumtaz Mahal.Crafted over 15 years by about 20,000 artisans from India and Central Asia, the Taj Mahal is amongthe seven Wonders of the World, made of shimmering white marble contrasted by intricate inlaywork, fine tracery and carving.Agra Fort standing handsomely in red sandstone is almost as breathtaking. Built in 1571, its colossalwalls, encircled by a moat, tell tales of Emperor Akbar’s military might, while the palatial additionsTaj MahalagraHome to the architectural vision of the Mughals, including the world’smost magnificent tribute to love, the Taj Mahal.in white marble are testimony to the poetic vision of his grandson, Emperor Shahjahan. Today,the maze of buildings within the fort walls form a virtual city waiting to be explored.Fatehpur Sikri, the dream capital city of Emperor Akbar, is 37 kms from Agra. This beautifullyplanned city founded in 1571 boasts of perfectly proportioned palaces, mosques, courtyards andornate gateways that conjure images of emperors and their soldiers, harems, musicians and spiritualadvisors. The city was mysteriously abandoned after its construction yet its spell lives on, enthrallingtravellers, history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.The bazaars of Agra with their replicas of the Taj Mahal, marble and stone inlay souvenirs, wovendurries, leather bags and shoes are a ‘must-see’.Fatehpur Sikri
Enjoy the luxury of your own private view of the Taj Mahal, located 600 metres fromThe <strong>Oberoi</strong> Amarvilās. The resort is designed so that all rooms and suites, the lobby, bar andlounge offer uninterrupted views of the monument. Built in a style inspired by Moorish andMughal architecture, The <strong>Oberoi</strong> Amarvilās is a splendid display of domes, arches, terracedlawns, fountains, reflection pools and pavilions. From the moment you enter the grandcolonnaded forecourt of the resort to the opulent interiors with gilded ceilings and beautifullyAgracrafted fabrics and furniture, each experience is on a royal scale. The fine international andIndian cuisine, well appointed spa and the magnificent swimming pool set in a stepped gardenadd to the luxury of The <strong>Oberoi</strong> Amarvilās.Rated 6th best hotel in the world and number 3 in Asiaby Travel + Leisure in the 2008 Readers’ Poll.Over the centuries, visitors have been fascinated by the changing moods of the Taj Mahal by day andnight. At The <strong>Oberoi</strong> Amarvilās you have the luxury of experiencing this magic, without any visitinghours, from the privacy of your room. As you dine under the stars on your private terrace, the Taj Mahalbecomes the most astounding backdrop for your unforgettably romantic interlude.