Family-Friendly Adventures in !

Hall of Private Audiences (Diwan-I-Khas)

Why Visit?

Family Itinerary: Visit to Hall of Private Audiences (Diwan-i-Khas)

Morning Start: Arrival at Red Fort

- Getting There: Start your day early by heading to the Red Fort in Old Delhi, where the Diwan-i-Khas is located. The nearest metro station is Chandni Chowk on the Yellow Line, a short walk from the fort.

- Tickets: Purchase tickets at the entrance or book online to avoid queues. There are discounts for students and free entry for children under 15.

Exploration Time: Diwan-i-Khas

- Discover the Grandeur: Enter the Red Fort and head straight to the Diwan-i-Khas, marvelously designed for royal audiences. Notice the ornate white marble, floral inlays, and the famous engraving "If there is Paradise on Earth, it is here."

- Interesting Fact: The Diwan-i-Khas was where the emperor would meet special guests and dignitaries. It once housed the legendary Peacock Throne, which was encrusted with precious stones including the famous Koh-i-Noor diamond.

- Photography: Capture family photos with the beautiful columns and arches in the background.

Interactive Learning

- Guided Tour: Opt for a guided tour available in multiple languages to hear fascinating stories and historical facts that keep the kids engaged.

- Activity Sheet: Request activity sheets from the visitor center, designed to help children learn through puzzles and scavenger hunts about the Mughal Empire.

Lunch Break

- Enjoy a picnic in the gardens of the Red Fort, or try some local Mughal cuisine at a nearby restaurant.

Afternoon Delight: Light and Sound Show

- Timing: Check the schedule for the English version of the Light and Sound show that brings the history of the Red Fort to life, a perfect end to your visit.

Departure

- Walk back to Chandni Chowk metro or hail a rickshaw. Reflect on the historical wonders and a day well spent.

With a blend of history, learning, and fun activities, your family"s visit to the Diwan-i-Khas will be both memorable and enriching.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Korai Village

Why Visit?

Welcome to Korai Village, a hidden gem perfect for a family adventure! Here"s a delightful itinerary for your family-friendly tour:

### Morning: Arrival and Village Walk

Start your day early by driving or taking a local bus to Korai Village. On arrival, immerse yourselves in the rustic charm by joining the "Village Walking Tour" at 9 AM. This guided walk lets you explore the quaint streets, traditional houses, and meet warm, friendly locals. Learn about the village"s history as a pivotal trade center during the medieval period and see how traditional arts are still being kept alive.

### Midday: Artisan Workshops

Post the walking tour, head to the local artisan workshops around 11 AM. Korai is renowned for pottery and textile making. Families can participate in hands-on workshops where kids can try their hand at pottery or fabric painting, guided by skilled craftsmans. It"s a fantastic way for children to learn and appreciate traditional crafts.

### Lunch: Local Cuisine

Enjoy a traditional meal at a local dhaba around 1 PM. Relish dishes like ‘Sabzi Roti’ and ‘Dal Baati’, which provide a true taste of the regional flavors.

### Afternoon: Folk Music and Dance

Post lunch, attend a folk music and dance session at 2:30 PM organized by the village community center. The vibrant performances featuring local instruments and colorful costumes are not only entertaining but also give a peek into the cultural heritage of the region.

### Late Afternoon: Nature Walk and Departure

Conclude the day with a leisurely nature walk around 4 PM along the village outskirts. This serene walk offers picturesque views and a chance to spot local wildlife. It’s a gentle wrap-up to an engaging day.

Depart by 5:30 PM, leaving with memories and souvenirs from a day well spent exploring the cultural and natural beauty of Korai Village.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Kalakriti Cultural & Convention Center

Why Visit?

Embark on a delightful family excursion to the Kalakriti Cultural & Convention Center in Agra, a hub of cultural richness and architectural grandeur. Here"s an engaging itinerary for a memorable visit:

### Morning Arrival

Start your day early to beat the crowds and the heat. Kalakriti Cultural & Convention Center is easily accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw from any part of Agra. There"s ample parking if you"re driving yourself.

### Explore the Culture

Begin your tour by exploring the fascinating exhibitions often held at the center. These exhibits showcase India"s rich arts, crafts, and historical artifacts, which are great educational tools for children and adults alike.

### Attend the Mohabbat The Taj Show

A must-see at Kalakriti is the “Mohabbat The Taj” show. The live performance recounts the passionate story of Emperor Shah Jahan and his queen Mumtaz Mahal, alongside the creation of the Taj Mahal. This spectacle is presented with impressive effects and traditional costumes, which captivate both kids and adults. Check the timings in advance and book your tickets online to ensure availability.

### Craft Workshops

Post show, participate in interactive craft workshops typically available at the center. These workshops allow children and adults to learn traditional Indian art forms like pottery or miniature painting from skilled artisans.

### Shopping and Dining

End your visit at the souvenir shop within the center, perfect for picking unique handicrafts and mementos. For meals, the convention center is surrounded by various eateries offering local and international cuisine that caters to all palates, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.

### Interesting Facts:

- Kalakriti is located near the eastern gate of the Taj Mahal, making it convenient to combine both visits in a single trip.

- The center includes a fine arts gallery, which regularly features works from renowned artists.

This culturally rich itinerary promises a day filled with learning, enjoyment, and unforgettable experiences at the Kalakriti Cultural & Convention Center.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Mehtab Bagh (Moonlight Garden)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary: Discovering Mehtab Bagh and Its Surroundings

Morning Arrival at Mehtab Bagh

Start your day early by arriving at Mehtab Bagh, located in Agra, close to the iconic Taj Mahal. Easily accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw from anywhere in Agra, this beautiful garden lies directly opposite the Taj Mahal, across the Yamuna River. It"s best to reach by 8 AM to enjoy the cooler morning weather and fewer crowds.

Exploring Mehtab Bagh

Upon entering the garden, you’ll be greeted with lush greenery and an astounding, unobstructed view of the Taj Mahal. Mehtab Bagh, originally built by Emperor Babur and then perfected by Shah Jahan, was meant to be an ideal viewing point of the majestic Taj. The garden aligns symmetrically with the Taj Mahal, and its reflecting pool mirrors the mausoleum’s beauty, providing a perfect photo opportunity. Spend a couple of hours wandering through the well-maintained gardens, enjoying the peaceful ambiance.

Picnic Lunch in the Gardens

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy under the shade of one of the garden"s many trees. This is a great time to relax and let the kids play or sketch the beautiful scenery.

Visit to the Nearby Historic Sites

After lunch, take a short auto-rickshaw ride to the impressive Agra Fort, which is about 30 minutes away. Explore the red sandstone fort that was once the residence of Mughal emperors and offers fascinating insights into the history of India.

Evening River View and Departure

Return to Mehtab Bagh for a sunset view around 6 PM when the setting sun bathes the Taj Mahal in a soft, golden light. It"s a serene experience to end your day.

Mehtab Bagh is not just a garden but a doorway to the past, offering a quieter but equally mesmerizing view of the Taj Mahal. This family-friendly itinerary lets you enjoy the historical and cultural facets of Agra, making for an educational and enjoyable trip.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Fatehpur Sikri

Why Visit?

Embark on a historical adventure to Fatehpur Sikri, a striking city near Agra, India, founded by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1571. This UNESCO World Heritage site is easily accessible by road from Agra, taking about an hour by car or bus.

Start your day early at the majestic Buland Darwaza, one of the largest gateways in the world. As you enter, marvel at its grandeur, standing at 54 meters high, and discuss the fascinating story of its construction to commemorate Akbar’s victory over Gujarat.

Next, make your way to the Diwan-i-Khas, a unique architectural marvel where Akbar held his philosophical discussions. Here, kids can learn about Akbar’s interest in various religions and his attempt to start a new faith, Din-i-Ilahi.

A short walk will take you to Jodha Bai’s Palace, the largest residence in the complex. It combines elements of Rajput and Mughal architecture, reflecting the cultural integration of the era. The mix of Hindu columns and Muslim cupolas can be a great point of discussion about cultural diversity.

Don"t miss the Panch Mahal, a five-tiered pavilion that served as a pleasure palace. Its open design was primarily for the women of the royal household to enjoy leisure time. Kids will enjoy counting its pillars and imagining the royal scenes that once took place here.

Conclude your visit at the Tomb of Salim Chishti, revered for its beautiful lattice marble screens. Share with the children stories of wishes granted when tying a thread on the jali (screen) surrounding the tomb.

Wrap up your tour with a stroll through the courtyards and gardens, perfect for a family picnic, reflecting on the grandeur and history of Fatehpur Sikri.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.