Hotel Sheela Inn is situated a few hundred metres from the Taj Trapezium Zone Barrier: a 100% pollution-free area. The Indian Government has prohibited the entry of vehicles in this section to safeguard the beauty of the Taj Mahal, which Agra is synonymous for. We are only a pleasant 800m stroll from this exquisite monument of love, remarkable for its perfect proportions.

Ever since the Taj Mahal was first constructed in the 17th century, it has attracted visitors from all four corners of the globe. An exquisite monument of love: once seen, never forgotten. The Indian poet, Rabindranath Tagore, describes it as 'a teardrop on the face of eternity'. The Taj is remarkable for its perfect proportions and rich pietra dura, (intricate inlay work with semiprecious stones), and it exhibits some of the most advanced phases of Mughal architecture. The calligraphic ornamentation is also amazingly detailed: artistic marbled poetry.

Also built by Emperor Akbar is the Agra Fort, a citadel with imposing gates and walls of red sandstone on the Yamuna River. Most of the edifices inside the fort were built by Shah Jahan, whose architectural creations display refined artistry as apposed to the robust style favoured by Akbar. Agra Fort can also entertain visitors with a special light and sound show.

Twelve kilometres from Agra lies the Tomb of Akbar at Sikandra. On the southern side, this magnificent sandstone and marble structure has a huge gate with four grand minarets rising above its roof. Also within driving distance of Agra is the exquisitely crafted tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, also known as The Baby Taj.

And if that is not enough to keep you occupied, about 35 kilometres southwest of the city is Fatehpur Sikri, Emperor Akbar’s original capital. This is the perfect place for a day trip. Still perfectly preserved, this complex of palaces, mosques, gardens and pavilions is a rich legacy of the Mughal era.