India for Beginners, Agra, INDIA
Airing Date: Mar 13th, 2006
There's no doubting that for a first timer in India, the country will sideswipe you with its size, clamor and diversity.
However if you enjoy delving into convoluted cosmologies and thrive on sensual overload, then it is one of the most intricate and rewarding dramas unfolding on earth, and you'll quickly develop an abiding passion for it. India's like that.
Agra, situated about 200 km south of New Delhi, was the Capital of the Mughals (Moguls), the Muslim Emperors who ruled Northern India between the sixteenth and nineteenth centuries.
Agra is home to the Taj Mahal, India's most famous building. Made out of marble and inlaid with semi precious stones, it was completed in 1653 by Emperor Shah Jahan. It's a monument to love, built in tribute to his second wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in childbirth. It is the sole reason many come to India.
Built by three of the most magnificent Mughal, emperors, the Agra Fort is a fitting monument to the creative and artistic genius of the times. Girdled by massive double walls and pierced by four towering gateways, the fort is a complex of places, courts, mosque, baths, gardens and pleasure pavilions spanning three reigns.
Further Information
Qantas flies to Mumbai with prices starting from $1494 ex Melbourne, $1514 ex Sydney, $1564 ex Darwin, $1569 ex Brisbane, $1584 ex Adelaide and $1588 ex Perth.
Prices available online and include surcharges, fees & taxes, subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply.
Website: www.qantas.com
Jet Airways will connect you to Delhi from $300 one way. For more information contact Jet Airways on 02 9244 2132
A 12 day tour starts from $3085 a person twin share
For details call Travel Indochina
Telephone: 1300 365 355
Website: www.travelindochina.com.au
Prices correct at 13/3/06
For the latest India travel advice, go to www.smartraveller.gov.au
