May 13th, 2009
The Mankameshwar Temple
There are universities, shopping excursions, and a wonderful mix of the old and the new in Agra, and luxury hotels. Agra hotels are in the center of the activity, offering a sumptuous jumping-off point for tourist adventures, or a central point for a getaway in magnificent surroundings.
Agra is a bustling metropolis, with many attractions for the visitor, not the least of which is the mausoleum the Shah Jahan built to his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal. There are temples, mosques, forts, and many other sites and buildings that are remarkable for their historical and religious significance, and which bring millions of tourists every year.
One of the remarkable sites is the Mankameshwar Temple, built on the four corners of Agra City, in honor of Shiva, one of the primary deities. Shiva is often linked with destruction, and is connected with Brahma, the creator, and Vishnu, the preserver, in Hindu culture . Shiva is often depicted in iconography as dancing, and this usually suggests the dance of creation and destruction, which is where Shiva reveals the cycle of life. He is said to hide in the funeral ground, covered with ashes, and also wears snakes for ornaments. He is perhaps the most widely-worshipped deity in the pantheon. Fortunate visitors might be in town during the processions devotees throw in honor of this powerful figure.
On the way to and from this temple, there are countless possibilities for quenching a hearty appetite. Traditional and contemporary Indian cuisine are offered in large doses, and can be had at luxury restaurants, local haunts, as well as street food. Be sure to get some of the local bread, a delicious snack that is folded like a pyramid, covered with silver foil, and sprinkled with coconut. There is also Petha, a sweet candy, as well as the spicy lentil-based Dal Moth.
The lively city has many things to do, and the whole family can enjoy the tours and all the sightseeing offered. The days will be filled with adventure and fun, and for those more prone to insomnia, there is also a host of after-hours activities in Agra, including live entertainment and Internet cafes.
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