When we hear Agra- we say Taj Mahal! Well, let me tell you, Agra is not just about Taj Mahal. There are so many great places to visit in Agra that can just blow your mind! If you are a history buff, you are in luck.
This city boasts the Mughal history. A stroll through majestic forts to the vibrant bazars will walk you through the history.
Table of Contents
What is the Best Time to Visit Agra?
October to March is the ideal time to visit Agra, avoiding the scorching summer heat.
How to Reach Agra?
Agra is well-connected by rail and road.
Nearest Airport to Agra:
The most convenient airport to reach Agra is Agra (AGR) Airport, situated a mere 6.1 kilometers away. For those seeking alternative options, Gwalior (GWL) Airport (101.1 km) and Delhi (DEL) Airport (177.9 km) are also accessible.
Nearest Railway Station to Agra:
Agra Cantt.
Where to Stay in Agra?
Choose from a wide range of hotels, from budget-friendly to luxury accommodations.
Mid-range Hotels in Agra
Hostels and guest houses in agra for budget stay option
Transport for Sightseeing in Agra
| Cab | Indigo ( 07 Per Km ) | Innova ( 10 Per Km ) | Tempo Traveller ( 12 Per Km ) |
| Tour Programme | 04 Passengers + 01 Driver | 06 Passengers + 01 Driver | 09 Passengers + 01 Driver |
| Agra Cantt Railway Station to Hotel. | 600 | 800 | 1450 |
| Agra Fort Railway Station to Hotel. | 600 | 800 | 1250 |
| Tundla Railway Station to Hotel. | 1600 | 2000 | 3200 |
| Mathura Railway Station to Agra. | 2400 | 2900 | 4700 |
| Delhi Railway Station to Agra. | 4400 | 5800 | 9500 |
| Agra Airport to Hotel. | 4600 | 6000 | 9700 |
| Delhi Airport to Agra. | 4800 | 6200 | 9900 |
| Half Day Sightseeing tour Agra | 1400 | 1800 | 2900 |
| Full Day Sightseeing tour Agra | 2300 | 2800 | 6500 |
| Full Day tour Agra with Fatehpur Sikri | 2300 | 2800 | 6500 |
| Full Day sightseeing tour of Mathura Vrindavan & back to Agra. | 2600 | 3100 | 4900 |
| Agra to Delhi droping. | 4900 | 6500 | 11,000 |
| Agra to Jaipur Droping. | 5200 | 7000 | 11,800 |
| Agra to Gwalior droping. | 2900 | 4500 | 7500 |
What to Eat in Agra?
Enjoy the world-famous Agra petha. It is nothing but a sweet candy made from ash gourd. There are dedicated shops for petha that sell amazing varieties of petha flavors like chocolate, paan, etc.
Agra has one of the best street food scenes in India. You will get to savor delicious parathas, bhallas, bhaturas, choles, litti chokha, etc on the streets. Just make sure you are choosing the hygienic one to eat!
Also, being ruled by mughals, this city boasts the richness of the mughal culture in the cuisine. Try korma curries, tandoori chicken, butter chicken, etc with a Mughlai twist.
Nearby almost every attraction you will find canteens and stalls that sell authentic foods. You can eat there or can go for speciality restaurants for a better experience.
Where to Shop in Agra and What to Buy?
Explore the local markets for souvenirs, handicrafts, and textiles.
Top 20 Places to Visit in Agra
Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is a very beautiful building made of white marble. It is located in Agra, India, on the banks of the Yamuna River. It is one of the most famous places in the world and is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
The building is decorated with beautiful writing and precious stones. The Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan had built this beautiful monument in the memory of his second wife- Mumtaj Mahal. It is said that Shah Jahan was depressed for almost a year after Mumtaj Mahal died due to postpartum hemorrhage while giving birth to her 14th child.
The Taj Mahal is belived to be a testament of endless love for his wife.
The central structure houses the tombs of both Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, surrounded by lush gardens and reflecting pools that enhance the monument’s ethereal beauty. Taj Mahal is not only one of the best places to visit in Agra, but people specifically visit Agra to see the captivating beauty of Taj Mahal.
Agra Fort
Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a magnificent architectural marvel and a symbol of Mughal power. It was built by Mughal emperor Akbar and it took several decades to build the fort completely.
The fort showcases a blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles, with red sandstone walls, intricate carvings, and majestic palaces. It served as a mughal royal residence for over 150 years.
Some of the key attractions within the fort include:
- Akbar’s Palace: A sprawling complex with beautiful courtyards and halls.
- Jahangir’s Palace: Known for its exquisite pietra dura work.
- Shah Jahan’s Palace: A stunning palace with beautiful pavilions and gardens.
- Mughal Gardens: Lush green gardens with intricate water channels and fountains.
If you are someone who loves history, please hire a guide who can walk you through the history. Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid scorching heat!
Entry Fees:
- Indian Citizens: ₹50 per person (₹40 on Fridays)
- Foreign Visitors: ₹650 per person (₹600 on Fridays)
- Children below 15 years: Free entry
Opening Hours:
Agra Fort is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset, every day of the week.
Fatehpur Sikri- A Forgotten Mughal Ghost Town
Yes, a ghost town! Because it was abandoned just 15 years after it was founded due to a severe water shortage! Fatehpur Sikri was created and envisioned as an ideal city due to its strategic location, fertile land, and proximity to the Sufi saint Sheikh Salim Chishti. Akbar had a blessing hand of Salim Christi here.
But, even after being abandoned, it has marvelous and grand structures that still attracts thousands of visitors every year.
Some of the must-see attractions include:
- Buland Darwaza: A majestic gateway that stands as a symbol of Akbar’s military victories.
- Jama Masjid: A grand mosque with intricate carvings and a serene courtyard.
- Tomb of Salim Chishti: A beautiful marble mausoleum dedicated to the saint who inspired the city’s creation.
- Panch Mahal: A five-story palace with intricate latticework and stunning views.
- Jodha Bai’s Palace: A fusion of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles, reflecting the religious tolerance of Akbar’s reign.
Opening Hours
sunrise to sunset every day
Entry Fees
- Children under 15: Free
- Citizens of India and visitors of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries: ₹50 per person
- Other foreign visitors: ₹610 per person
Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb– Dream in Marble!
This magnificent mausoleum is built on the banks of Yamuna river. It is built by Emperor Jahangir in memory of his father-in-law, Mirza Ghiyas Beg. It is considered as a precursor to the iconic Taj Mahal.
The tomb is known especially for its intricate pietra dura work, a technique that involves inlaying colorful stones into marble. The garden is designed in the classic Char Bagh style, divided into four parts by water channels. ts elegant design and exquisite craftsmanship make itone of the top places to visit in Agra.
Opening Hours
8 am–12 am
Entry Fees
₹30 per person for Indian nationals and SAARC and BIMSTEC country visitors. For tourists from other countries, the entry fee is ₹310.
Mehtab Bagh- Moonlight Garden
You must be aware of the garden view of Tajmahal where usually people click photos. But this Mehtab Bagh is on the other side of the Taj mahal which too offers stunning views of this monument. Get the best views on the full moon day from Mehtab Bagh- reason why it is called moonlight garden.
Visitors can enjoy a relaxing stroll through the garden beacuse it is away from the loads of crowds. Admire the beautiful landscaping, and capture stunning photographs of the Taj Mahal. The garden’s serene atmosphere and picturesque views make it one of the best places to visit in Agra.
Mehtab Bagh is a remarkable example of Mughal garden design. Its careful planning, intricate water features, and lush greenery showcase the aesthetic sensibilities of the Mughal emperors.
Opening Hours:
6am- 9pm
Entry Fees:
Indian, SAARC and BIMSTEC tourists= Rs 15. Foreign tourists have to pay Rs 200 as entry fee.
Akbar’s Tomb
Jahangir, Akbar’s son built this monument for his father. This is a true testament of Mughal architecture. The base of the tomb is constructed of red sandstone, while the upper portion is adorned with white marble. The tomb’s pyramidal shape and the surrounding gardens create a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere.
The tomb’s impressive architecture, combined with the tranquil gardens, makes it one of the best places to visit in Agra for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Entry Fees
- Indian and SAARC/BIMSTEC citizens: ₹30
- Foreign tourists: ₹310, which includes a one-time composite toll of ₹500 for Agra Development Authority
- Children under 15: Free
Opening Hours
6am- 6PM
Jama Masjid- Largest Mosque in India
Jama Masjid in Agra is one of the largest mosques in India, built during the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1648. It was commissioned by his eldest daughter, Jahanara Begum.
The mosque is a blend of Persian and Islamic architecture styles. Its has a red sandstone structure, intricate carvings, and elegant domes. This creates a breathtaking sight. The large courtyard, surrounded by arcades, is a peaceful space for prayer and reflection.
Jama Masjid is not only a place of worship but also a significant historical landmark. It attracts visitors from all over the world, who come to admire its architectural beauty and soak in its spiritual atmosphere.
Entry Fees
No Entry Fee
Opening Hours
between 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM and then between 1:30 PM to 6:30 PM
Chini ka Rauza- Tomb of China
Chini ka rauza is a magnificent 17th-century mausoleum which means a tomb made with china tiles. It is a proof of high level craftsmanship in the Mughal era! The tiles, often referred to as “chini,” are made of glazed ceramic and come in a variety of vibrant colors.
While the Taj Mahal steals the limelight, Chini Ka Rauza is a hidden gem that often goes unnoticed. It offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the beauty of Mughal architecture and the skill of its artisans.
Entry Fees
No entry fee
Opening Hours
6am- 6pm
Anguri Bagh
Anguri Bagh, as the name suggests is the “Grape Garden.” It is a stunning Mughal garden located within the Agra Fort complex. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1637, this beautiful garden was once extensively known for its lush vineyards.
Whenever you visit Mughal architecture, you will find serene gardens included in the designs. This bagh is another classic example of the garden structures in the Mughal era.
Anguri Bagh offers a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the Mughal emperors and their families. The garden was once a private retreat for the royal women.
This makes it one of the best places to visit in Agra for both nature and history lovers!
Entry Fees
₹25 – ₹35 per person for Indian, SAARC and BIMSTEC country citizens. For visitors from other countries, the Mehtab Bagh Agra ticket price is ₹200 – ₹300 per person. Kids below 15 years of age get free entry.
Opening Hours
6am- 7:30pm
Taj Museum
Want to know more about Taj Mahal? Visit this museum! It is located right in the Taj Mahal Complex, so you do not have to go anywhere else to learn the history and construction of Taj Mahal!
Here is What You Can Expect:
- Mughal Miniatures: The museum houses a collection of exquisite Mughal miniature paintings, depicting scenes from history, mythology, and daily life.
- Architectural Drawings: Original architectural drawings of the Taj Mahal provide insights into the planning and design of this iconic monument.
- Inlay Work Samples: Visitors can admire samples of the intricate inlay work that adorns the Taj Mahal, showcasing the skill and artistry of Mughal craftsmen.
- Historical Artifacts: The museum displays various historical artifacts, including coins, jewelry, and weapons from the Mughal era.
Entry Fees
Kalakriti Dance Drama Show
Kalakriti Culture and Convention Centre is one of the popular places to visit in Agra for cultural performances including the mesmerizing dance drama show, “Mohabbat The Taj.”
This show narrates the epic love story of Emperor Shah Jahan and his beloved Mumtaz Mahal, the inspiration behind the iconic Taj Mahal.
If you like stage drama to any extent, this is a must-see show for you!
Ticket fare varies from INR 1500 to INR 6000 per seat.
Wildlife SOS
Wildlife SOS is a renowned organization dedicated to wildlife conservation and animal welfare in India. In Agra, they operate two significant facilities! So, nature lovers, gather here! This is one of the greatest places to visit in Agra for nature and animal enthusiasts.
This facility is the world’s largest dedicated to rescuing from various threats, including the illegal bear bile trade, captivity and rehabilitating sloth bears.
They also provide advanced veterinary care, including specialized treatment for injuries and diseases. To ensure the well-being of the bears, the facility offers a variety of enrichment activities, such as climbing, foraging, and swimming.
Ram Barat
Ram Barat is a grand cultural event celebrated in Agra, India, as part of the Ramlila festival. This event is one of the biggest annual celebrations in North India, attracting millions of devotees and tourists.
this shows the cultural incusivity rooted deeply in the society. A massive procession takes place, depicting the wedding procession of Lord Rama. It includes beautifully decorated floats, dancers, musicians, and actors portraying various characters from the Ramayana.
If you’re planning to visit Agra during the Ram Barat festival, you can expect a vibrant and unforgettable experience. It’s a great opportunity to witness the rich cultural heritage of India and participate in a grand celebration.
Gurudwara Guru Ka Taal
Gurudwara Guru Ka Taal is a significant Sikh pilgrimage site located near Sikandra in Agra. It remembers the sacrifice of the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, who voluntarily surrendered himself to the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb to protect the religious freedom of Hindus.
The Gurudwara was built over the spot where Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji offered himself for arrest.
Make sure your attire and behavior is modest in the gurudwara.
Taj Nature Walk:
Taj nature walk trail is one of the best places to visit in Agra. This trail is very peaceful and serene and goes around Taj Mahal and offers views of the monument from different angles.
There are designated picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy a peaceful picnic. The park is home to a variety of plant species, including native trees, shrubs, and flowers. You may also spot various bird species and other wildlife.
Diwan-i-Aam
The Diwan-i-Aam, or Hall of Public Audience, is a magnificent structure located within the Agra Fort. It was built by Emperor Shah Jahan between 1628 and 1635. This grand hall was used by the Mughal emperor to meet with the general public, nobles, and officials.
Khas Mahal
The Khas Mahal (Private Palace) is a stunning white marble palace located within the Agra Fort complex. It was built by Emperor Shah Jahan between 1631 and 1640 and served as his private residence and the living quarters for his two favorite daughters.
Pharmazee This was beautiful Admin. Thank you for your reflections.
What an amazing list! Agra is truly a gem for travelers, and your blog beautifully captures its essence. From the iconic Taj Mahal to the hidden charm of Mehtab Bagh, each destination has its own story. I especially appreciated how you included lesser-known spots like Chini Ka Rauza and Anguri Bagh — they deserve way more attention! Thanks for putting this together — it’s a perfect guide for anyone planning a trip to Agra.