Known as the location of the magnificent Taj Mahal, Agra draws tourists like a moth to a flame. Standing proudly as a glorious beacon of Agras heritage and culture, the Taj mahal is a wondrous sight, exceeding the expectations that surround it. However, in spite of its endless hype, the brilliant vision of white marble that make up the Taj Mahal is not its stand-alone attraction. Leaving travellers with a lasting impression is the Mughal legacy in Agra, which is evident in its architecture and cuisine.
Agra Cuisine is most commonly referred to Mughlai Agra Cuisine. Reflecting on its heritage and culture, Mughlai Agra Cuisine has been relished for many centuries, with its recipes being passed from one generation to another. Most of its major dishes are non-vegetarian, which includes scrumptious delicacies such as kababs and kormas. The korma curries are mixture of almond sauce, nuts, cream and spices blended carefully with an abundant use of curd.
A favourite among the Indians in Agra is Pethas, a traditional Indian desert. A number of visitors often purchase a few packets of the desert, which is a rose water-flavoured sweet, combined with glucose and pumpkin. Other specialities in the city are Dal Moth and Gajjaks, which is a sesame seed and jaggery biscuit.
For a true Agra dining experience, Taj Ganj is the ideal destination as it has no dearth in places to eat. The majority of the restaurants specialize in Agra cuisine, including delectable dishes such as paratha (flat bread), kofta (meatball dish) rogan josh (a spicy dish often eaten with flat bread or rice) and pasanda (a mild lamb curry with a creamy sauce). The deserts include gulabjamun (fried dough, similar to donuts dipped in honey or sugar syrup), kulfi (frozen milk-based dessert), barfi (a milk toffee made with coconut, almonds, or pistachios) and kalakand (sweetmeat with cottage cheese). Among the popular restaurants is Shankara Vegis Restaurant, which is located on a rooftop, specializing in vegetarian food. Another restaurant is Stuff Makers, which offer the experience of eating in a traditional thatched hut, presenting the visitor terrace views of the Taj Mahal. Other popular restaurants include Yash Caf, Lakshmi Villas, The Park, Comesum Multi Cuisine Food Plaza and Zorba The Buddha.
The international traveller will undoubtedly have an enjoyable experience staying in one of the
Hotels near Taj Mahal such as The Gateway Hotel Fatehabad Road Agra. Amongst the finest
Agra Hotels, The Gateway Hotel Fatehabad Road Agra offers the visitor impeccable service, complemented by elegant interiors and lush landscaped gardens.
