Agra – the land of the timeless Taj – is a jewel in India’s crown, nestled on the banks of the Yamuna River in Uttar Pradesh. Known globally for its rich Mughal history, architectural marvels, and vibrant culture, Agra is a must-visit for history buffs, couples, foodies, and anyone with a love for stunning monuments.
This city was once the capital of the Mughal Empire, and its legacy continues through its mesmerising forts, palaces, and mausoleums.
Whether you’re gazing at the ivory-white Taj Mahal bathed in moonlight or exploring the bustling streets lined with sweet shops and handicrafts, Agra promises an unforgettable travel experience.
Top Places to Visit in Agra
1. Taj Mahal 🕌
A symbol of eternal love and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal tops every traveller’s Agra itinerary. Built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a pristine white marble mausoleum that glows differently at dawn, noon, and dusk.
🕰️ Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM (closed on Fridays)
💵 Entry Fee: ₹50 (Indians), ₹1100 (Foreigners)
📍Location: Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Tajganj
2. Agra Fort 🏰
Often overshadowed by the Taj, the Agra Fort is a massive red sandstone fortress built by Emperor Akbar in 1565. This UNESCO World Heritage Site served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors and features beautiful palaces, courtyards, and mosques within its walls.
🕰️ Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
💵 Entry Fee: ₹50 (Indians), ₹650 (Foreigners)
📍Location: Rakabganj, Agra
3. Mehtab Bagh 🌿
Want a postcard-perfect view of the Taj Mahal? Head to Mehtab Bagh, a charbagh-style Mughal garden located on the opposite bank of the Yamuna River. It’s a peaceful place to enjoy the sunset with the Taj in the backdrop – ideal for photography and picnics.
🕰️ Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
💵 Entry Fee: ₹25 (Indians), ₹300 (Foreigners)
📍Location: Nagla Devjit, Etmadpur
4. Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj) 🏛️
Often referred to as the “Baby Taj”, this is the tomb of Mirza Ghiyas Beg, the grandfather of Mumtaz Mahal. It’s considered a draft version of the Taj Mahal and features intricate marble inlay work, pietra dura, and Persian-style gardens.
🕰️ Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
💵 Entry Fee: ₹30 (Indians), ₹310 (Foreigners)
📍Location: Moti Bagh, Agra
5. Akbar’s Tomb – Sikandra 🏯
This magnificent structure is the tomb of Akbar the Great, situated in Sikandra, just outside Agra. Blending Hindu, Islamic, Buddhist, and Christian architectural styles, it’s set amidst beautiful gardens and is home to spotted deer and peacocks.
🕰️ Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM
💵 Entry Fee: ₹30 (Indians), ₹310 (Foreigners)
📍Location: Sikandra, Agra
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6. Fatehpur Sikri 🕌
Located around 40 km from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is a ghost city built by Akbar as his capital. Though it was abandoned due to water scarcity, its majestic structures like Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid, and Panch Mahal remain intact and awe-inspiring.
🕰️ Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
💵 Entry Fee: ₹40 (Indians), ₹610 (Foreigners)
📍Location: Fatehpur Sikri, Agra District
7. Jama Masjid 🕌
One of the largest mosques in India, Agra’s Jama Masjid was built in 1648 by Shah Jahan in honour of his daughter, Jahanara Begum. With its red sandstone and white marble facade, it serves as a spiritual and architectural landmark.
🕰️ Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
💵 Entry Fee: Free
📍Location: Opposite Agra Fort
8. Chini Ka Rauza 🪔
An offbeat attraction, Chini Ka Rauza is the tomb of Persian scholar and poet Afzal Khan, known for its glazed tile (chini) decoration. Its Indo-Persian architecture and peaceful riverside location make it a hidden gem for explorers.
🕰️ Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
💵 Entry Fee: Free
📍Location: Near Itmad-ud-Daulah, Agra
9. Anguri Bagh 🍇
Located within Agra Fort, Anguri Bagh or “Grape Garden” was the royal garden of the Mughal harem. It features geometrical flower beds and is surrounded by delicate Mughal architecture that provides insight into the luxurious lifestyle of the era.
🕰️ Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
💵 Entry Fee: Included in Agra Fort ticket
📍Location: Inside the Agra Fort complex
10. Dolphin Water Park 💦
If you’re travelling with family or looking for some fun after a historical tour, visit Dolphin Water Park. It’s the biggest water park in Agra, offering exciting slides, pools, and fun rides to beat the heat.
🕰️ Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
💵 Entry Fee: ₹550 onwards
📍Location: NH-2, Runkata, Agra
Best Time to Visit Agra
The best time to explore Agra is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
🌤️ October to March: Perfect for outdoor visits and enjoying sunrise/sunset views at the Taj Mahal.
🔥 April to June: Very hot; temperatures can soar above 45°C. Not recommended unless you love the heat.
🌧️ July to September: Monsoon season; fewer crowds but high humidity.
How to Reach Agra via Bus
Agra is well-connected to major cities in North India via an extensive interstate bus network.
- From Delhi: Numerous UPSRTC and private AC/non-AC buses run daily from ISBT Anand Vihar and Kashmere Gate. Travel time is 4-5 hours via Yamuna Expressway.
- From Jaipur: Direct buses via NH21 take about 5-6 hours.
- From Lucknow & Kanpur: UPSRTC and private Volvo buses connect these cities in 6-8 hours.
- Bus Terminals in Agra: ISBT at Transport Nagar, Idgah Bus Stand (near Agra Cantt), and Taj Depot near the Taj Mahal area.
Top Foods to Try in Agra
Agra isn’t just about history and architecture – it’s also a foodie’s paradise! From legendary sweets to Mughlai delicacies, the city’s culinary offerings are a treat for your taste buds.
1. Petha 🍬
Agra and Petha go hand in hand! Made from ash gourd and flavoured with rosewater, saffron, or even paan, this translucent sweet is the city’s signature item. Try Panchhi Petha for authentic varieties.
2. Bedai & Jalebi 🍳
A popular breakfast combo, Bedai (fried puffy bread filled with spiced lentils) is served with spicy aloo sabzi and topped off with crisp, syrupy jalebis. Try Deviram’s or Ram Babu Paratha Bhandar.
3. Mughlai Cuisine 🍗
From creamy chicken korma to kebabs and tandoori platters, Agra offers an authentic Mughlai dining experience. Don’t miss Pinch of Spice and Mama Chicken.
4. Dal Moth 🥜
A spicy lentil and nut snack that makes a great souvenir from Agra. The Baluganj area has some of the best local shops.
5. Tandoori Chai ☕
Try Kulhad Tandoori Chai, where tea is poured into hot clay cups – smoky, flavorful, and Insta-worthy!
🗓️ 2-Day Agra Itinerary
📍 Day 1: Iconic Monuments & Local Flavours
- 6:00 AM – Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise 🌅 for the most breathtaking views
- 8:30 AM – Enjoy a traditional breakfast of Bedai & Jalebi at Deviram’s
- 10:00 AM – Explore Agra Fort and admire its majestic Mughal architecture 🏰
- 1:00 PM – Lunch at Pinch of Spice (try their Mughlai thali) 🍗
- 3:00 PM – Head to Itimad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj)
- 5:00 PM – Relax at Mehtab Bagh, ideal for sunset photos of the Taj 🌇
- 7:00 PM – Dinner and Tandoori Chai at a local cafe in Tajganj
📍 Day 2: Offbeat Agra & Shopping
- 8:00 AM – Breakfast at the hotel or a local eatery
- 9:00 AM – Visit Akbar’s Tomb at Sikandra
- 11:00 AM – Stop by Chini Ka Rauza for a quiet, offbeat experience
- 12:30 PM – Visit Anguri Bagh inside Agra Fort (if missed on Day 1)
- 2:00 PM – Lunch at Mama Chicken or Bon Barbecue
- 4:00 PM – Head to local markets for souvenirs (Petha, leather goods, marble items) 🛍️
- 6:00 PM – Optional: Visit Dolphin Water Park for some fun (if travelling with kids)
- 8:00 PM – Depart or enjoy a peaceful dinner before your return journey
Plan your Agra Trip now! 🚍
Agra is far more than just the Taj Mahal. From forts and tombs to gardens and Mughlai food, every corner of the city echoes the grandeur of its royal past. Whether you’re a solo traveller, a romantic couple, or a family on vacation, Agra offers something for everyone.
So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to be mesmerised by the charm of this timeless city.
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