What to do in Khairagarh

On the banks of Agra’s Yamuna River is one of the world’s best-known architectural masterpieces, the Taj Mahal. Conceived by grieving Emperor Shah Jahan for his deceased wife, the marble mausoleum was built over 22 years, involving tens of thousands of stone workers and European inlay experts. Discover its beauty at daybreak as dawn colors light up the white marble.

Agra Fort is an imposing 16th-century red sandstone fortress located about 1.5 miles (2.5 kilometers) northwest of the Taj Mahal. The vast fortified complex is also known as the Red Fort of Agra and was built by Mughal emperors when Agra was their capital city. Within its walls are palaces, halls and mosques, some of which are made from pure marble.

The Soami Bagh Temple is an architecturally impressive landmark and a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of many religions. Admire the exquisite masonry of the temple’s white-marble exterior. Soami Bagh Temple is devoted to Radha Soami, a religious organization that combines the teachings of all faiths. Observe Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs, among others, meeting in harmony.

Situated on the banks of the Yamuna River, this once grand royal park still retains some elegant features as well as pretty plants and flowers. It provides leafy respite from the city. Join the locals in strolling leisurely along the walkways and lounging under the shade of its pavilions.

At the Agra Marble Emporium, or Subhash Emporium, watch artisans use hand tools to create “paintings” from precious stones. The art of setting precious stones into marble was brought by master Italian stoneworkers to India for the construction of the Taj Mahal. It is known in India as Parchin Kari and was popularized by the Mughals during the 17th and 18th centuries.