Agra Travel Guide - 3 Must Visit Places in Agra
If you have always dreamed of visiting Taj Nagri but felt a bit overwhelmed, we have got you covered with a curated Agra tour packages itinerary highlighting the three must-visit places. While the Taj Mahal is undoubtedly the star, many make the mistake of only visiting it. Take in the majesty of the Taj Mahal, but do not miss out on the other gems around the city. Spend most of your time admiring the beauty of the Taj Mahal, but there are additional places worth exploring. Already picturing yourself in front of the Taj? Take a look at our Agra trip planner for a glimpse of this once-in-a-lifetime brilliance.
1. Taj Mahal
On the southern bank of the Yamuna River, the Taj Mahal gracefully rises, almost like a dream, from the hustle and bustle of Agra. Finished in 1653, the entire Taj complex is not just a showcase of the talents from way back when but also carries a rich history with it. It stood witness to the Mughal reign for a good 130 years. If you fancy taking a stroll back in time and getting a glimpse of what life was like back then, a walk through the complex is a must.
Everything, from the stunning Mughal architecture to the local grub sold nearby, is a nod to that unforgettable Mughal era. No doubt, kick off your exploration of the city with the Taj Mahal. For the best experience, hit up this beautiful mausoleum early in the morning – the sunrise view is totally worth it. And, the complex opens even before the sun rises, so you can start your tour bright and early, dodging the crowds later in the day.
Once you have explored the minarets, tombs, and every nook of the monument, find a peaceful spot at the Mughal Garden. You can either relax there or take a leisurely stroll. The concept of a 'Paradise Garden,' known as Charbagh, surrounding the Taj was influenced by Persian gardens. The central fountain reflects the Taj Mahal and creates an even more surreal spectacle on full moon nights. It is a perfect way to cap off your Taj Mahal tour.
- Entry Fee: ₹50 for Indians (valid for 3 hours, excluding mausoleum entry), ₹200 for mausoleum entry, and ₹1250 for foreigners
- Timing: Sunrise to Sunset (Closed on Fridays)
- Location: Forest Colony, Tajganj
- Distance from Agra Railway Station: 6.2 km
2. Agra Fort
Delhi to Agra tour is really complete without checking out the Agra Fort. It is like this hidden gem that does not get enough credit from both tourists and guides. It stands right up there with the Taj Mahal when it comes to popularity and Mughal architectural brilliance. So, for your next visit, we are suggesting you soak in the beauty of this massive red sandstone fort and explore the famous sites nearby.
Start your adventure at Agra Fort. Walk through its long courtyards, and you will quickly understand why it is such a big deal. Emperor Akbar had great plans for this place - he wanted it to be the military HQ for the Mughal Empire. And the site did its job pretty darn well. But then Shah Jahan took over and added his favourite touch - white marble. This structure is part palace, part fortress, with hidden stories, myths, and loads of intriguing corridors. From the public hangout spot, Diwan-I-Am, to the dazzling Sheesh Mahal, you could easily spend a whole day getting lost in the magic of this spot – and trust us, it is worth it.
- Timing: Open from 6 am to 6 pm
- Ticket Prices: ₹20 for Indians, ₹300 for Foreigners
- Distance from Agra Railway Station: 5.6 km
3. Fatehpur Sikri
About 40 km away from Agra sits Fatehpur Sikri, known as the political HQ of Emperor Akbar. A visit here is like stepping back into the era of Akbar. Fatehpur Sikri Fort, like Agra Fort, has earned the UNESCO World Heritage Site title. The story goes as - Akbar had a meeting with Sufi saint Shaikh Salim Chishti. This saint predicted the Mughal throne heir, and when it happened, Akbar decided to make Sikri his capital.
Just like his open-minded views, which are about soaking in good vibes from all kinds of cultures and religions, the fort echoes the same vibe. It is this harmonious mix of Persian and Mughal architecture, sprinkled with hints of Hindu, Christian, and Jain influences. Take your sweet time exploring every nook inside the complex. The place boasts a stunning mosque and three palaces, each meant for one of his wives. Do not skip Jodha Bai’s Palace, Panch Mahal, and Hiran Minar – they all have their own stories to tell.
- Timings: Sunrise to sunset, closed on Fridays
- Entry Costs: ₹40 for Indians, ₹550 for Foreigners
- Location: Buland Gate, Dadupura
- Distance from Agra Railway Station: 36.5 km
FAQs
Q: Best time to visit Agra?
A: The best time to visit Agra is from October to March when the weather is favourable for sightseeing.
Q: What places in Agra are UNESCO-listed?
A: The Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri.
Q: Which train station in Agra is closest to the Taj Mahal?
A: Agra Cantt railway station is only 20 minutes away from the Taj Mahal.
Q: How to find a tour guide in Agra?
A: You can book official tour guides approved by the Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India, online or over the phone from the Office of Approved Guide Association Agra. You can also use self-guided audio tour facilities provided by the ASI at the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Smartphone apps for touring the monuments are available for download.
Q: Are there any popular events held in Agra?
A: Yes, the Taj Mahotsav is a 10-day-long festival held in February-March every year.
Conclusion When we think of Agra, the Taj Mahal often steals the spotlight. But this city has way more to offer than just that. Agra is a treasure trove of monuments, mausoleums, parks, and bustling bazaars waiting to be explored. Whether you are on a family vacation, a honeymoon with friends, or a solo trip, Agra has something for everyone.