

When I traveled to India in January 2012 Indiasomeday was an excellent choice. I contacted Abbas and Sneha on very short notice to arrange my trip to India (golden triangle) and their support was outstanding - from booking accommodation, flights and trains, to sending me tricks and tips I used in my journey. Their responsiveness and support was just great.
A fabulous homestay just outside the centre of Agra, but a short autorickshaw ride from all the sights.
The Singh family have lived here for many years, and are genial hosts with a wealth of knowledge of the area. The property, originally built for British Army top brass, is cool and spacious, with spotlessly clean bedrooms equipped with everything a traveller needs, including ensuite bathrooms, ice cold A/C and a TV. Breakfast is plentiful, and supper can be provided.
The warmth of the welcome cannot be overstated, and even though we were only there for three days, we left feeling part of the family, as cliched as it may sound. Wholeheartedly recommended.
www.heritagehome.in
52A, Gaugh Road, Agra Cantt, Near U.P.Tourism Office, Agra
+91 8057596096
Google map: bit.ly/sHjwml
If you are planning to visit the world's most beautiful building, the Taj Mahal, it will definitely not disappoint you but the crowds you will encounter will certainly not add to your overall experience. The best way to avoid the worst of the queues, crowds and Agra's horrendous traffic is to stay there overnight. This way you can arrive at the Taj early (it opens at 6.00) and miss the tour parties which generally start to arrive at around 9.00. Staying in Agra also means you have the possibility (if you plan it right) of seeing the Taj in the moonlight. From 8.30 to 12.30 am groups of fifty people are allowed into the grounds (not the building) for up to half an hour.
Staying in Agra will also give you more time to visit Aga's other important sites. Apart from the Red Fort and Akbar's tomb another site not to be missed is the Itimad-Ud-Daulah or the 'baby Taj' as it is known. This tomb of Mizra Ghiyas Beg who was Shah Jahan's chief minister is an exquisite building that contains many of the design features that were later incorporated into the Taj. The gardens of the Taj are also very beautiful so take the time to wander around them, take photos from more original angles, and find a bench and sit and contemplate what wonders love can create!
In Agra, the Shanti Lodge was ideal. It was close to the Taj and had a rooftop restaurant which had superb views of the Taj.
Staff were efficient and friendly, rooms were clean. We paid R500 for a double room with air con and ensuite.
Shanti Lodge
Chowk Kagjiyan
South Gate, Taj Mahal
Agra -282 001
09837540428
shantilodge2000@yahoo.co.in
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