Shopping in Agra

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 work 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. 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. Some of the artifacts and craft items that Agra is famous for and which you can buy while shopping in Agra India, are :