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Agra
is known not only for its monumental wonders but also for its
handicrafts and fine arts traditions. You can shop to your hearts
content in the markets of Agra. Shopping in Agra is something you're
sure to enjoy on your tour to Agra India.
Agra was previously the center of power of the Mughal Empire. The
lavish Mughal court was held in Agra. The many wives of the emperors,
the noblemen and their consorts and the great artists and scholars of
Mughal times lived in Agra. The markets of Agra were full of the wares
of the many craftsmen who came to Agra to offer their best products to
the court and who hoped to receive the patronage of the Emperor.
Shopping in Agra and its markets was a favorite past time even then.
Sculptors, painters, artisans, jewelers, weavers, embroiderers, carpet
makers, musicians and metal workers, all came to Agra to offer their
talents to the royal family and the courtiers of the Mughal empire.
The Empress Noor Jahan is believed to have had a keen interest in
embroidery and textiles and employed a large number of women
seamstresses who embroidered the grand robes of the Emperor and his
courtiers. Even today many of the hereditary craftsmen remain, passing
on their skill from generation to generation. Shopping in Agra India,
is a pleasure, for the fine crafts once offered only to royalty are
now available to discerning travelers.
Some of the fine wok for which Agra is famous includes marblework,
such as inlaywork of the kind seen within the Taj Mahal; leatherwork
covering a wide range of products such as shoes, bags, belts and more;
rugs and carpets, woven by master craftsmen who retain the secrets of
carpet weaving taught generations ago by Persian rug makers, and
brassware which includes artifacts such as hookah bases, for those who
wish to acquire an oriental souvenir. Agra is also famous for its
Mughlai cuisine, a sweet called petha and a snack called dalmoth. You
can enjoy trying the culinary delights of Agra, while shopping in Agra
India.
Shopping in Agra
The main markets for shopping in Agra are near the Taj Mahal complex.
These areas include Sadar Bazaar, Kinari Bazaar and Munro Road. The
U.P State Emporium called Gangotri at the Taj Mahal Complex, offers a
choice of handicrafts under one roof. Don't miss this venue while
shopping in Agra for it has a great variety of marble, brassware,
rugs, leather items and textiles at reasonable prices. The Shilpagram
crafts village is another venue with a wide range of handicrafts on
sale, directly by the artisans themselves. U.P Handlooms and UPICA at
Sanjay Place on M.G. Road are other good venues to shop for souvenirs,
while shopping in Agra India.
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