other places to visit in agra

Places To Visit In Agra

Top hotel collections.

Near Taj Mahal

Best Hotels

3 Star Hotels

• Filter (19)
• Forts & Palaces (4)
• Tombs & Mausoleums (2)
• Fairs & Festivals (2)
• Amusement & Theme Park (2)

1. Taj Mahal

3 km from city center 1 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

One of the seven wonders of the world, Taj Mahal is located on the banks of River Yamuna in Agra . It was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial for his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It also houses the tomb of Shah Jahan himself. Constructed entirely out of white marble in the 17th century, Taj Mahal is one of the most beautiful monuments in the world. Every year visitors numbering more than the entire population of Agra pass through the magnificent gates to catch a glimpse of this breathtaking monument!

2. Agra Fort

1 km from city center 2 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Also known as Lal Qila, Fort Rouge or Red Fort of Agra, the Agra Fort is a UNESCO world heritage site. It is situated at a distance of about 2.5km northwest of the famous Taj Mahal. The construction of the massive fort of red sandstone by the banks of Yamuna river was started by emperor Akbar.

3. Taj Mahotsav

3 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Taj Mahotsav is an annual ten-day festival that takes place in Agra. The festival showcases an outstanding variety of art and craft, dance and cuisines of artisans from different regions of India. It is a paradise for food aficionados, children and the appreciators of folk culture.

4. Fatehpur Sikri

36 km from city center 4 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Located at a distance of 40km from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is a town in the Agra district and a famous tourist attraction. A city predominantly made of red sandstone, Fatehpur Sikri was founded in 1571 century by Mughal Emperor Akbar. It is essentially a fortified city built by the king and had been the capital of his Empire for fifteen years. Now a UNESCO world heritage site, it is home to Jodha Bai's Palace, Jama Mosque, Buland Darwaza, and Tomb of Salim Chisti among many other famous monuments. Derived from Arab and central Asian tent encampments, the Imperial Complex is a work of pavilions arranged in formal geometry on a piece of land. 

Agra Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

Delhi Agra Jaipur Tour Package 4 Days

2 Nights 3 Days Jaipur Agra Tour Package from Delhi

Delhi, agra, jaipur tour package: golden triangle tour, super saver delhi agra jaipur varanasi tour package.

Delhi Agra Jaipur Tour Package 5 Days with Mathura

5 Night 6 Days Golden Triangle Tour Package

5. itimad-ud-daulah's tomb.

3 km from city center 5 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

This tomb nestled on the bank of the river Yamuna was built by Queen Noor Jahan for her parents in the middle of the Persian Garden. It was constructed using yellow marble, with black and white marble inlay, and was hence called the Baby Taj.

6. Mehtab Bagh

3 km from city center 6 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Located just north to the glorious wonder called the Taj Mahal and overlooking the Agra Fort and Yamuna river on the opposite side, Mehtab Bagh is a rare retreat of natural bliss and one of the most scenic spots in Agra.

Top Hotels In Agra

₽ 281 onwards

₽ 1,885 onwards

₽ 664 onwards

₽ 1,023 onwards

₽ 178 onwards

₽ 315 onwards

7. Shopping in Agra

2 km from city center 7 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Various small shops in Agra sell handicrafts and stone products such as jewelry boxes, and plaques. Leather goods of good quality are also available in the markets. Most products have some dedication to the Taj Mahal.

8. Akbar's Tomb

7 km from city center 8 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

The Tomb of Akbar is an important and iconic Mughal architectural masterpiece, built in 1605 and 1613. It is located at Sikandra, in the suburbs of Agra, on the Mathura road (NH2), 8 km west of the city core. About a km away from the tomb, lies Mariam's Tomb, the tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani, wife of the Mughal Emperor Akbar and the mother of Jahangir.

9. Jama Masjid

1 km from city center 9 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

This relatively simple mosque built almost entirely in red sandstone was built by Jahanara, the daughter of Shah Jahan. Seen in itself, this is still an imposing piece of architecture and one of the largest mosques in the country. This is still used as the main mosque in the city.

10. Chini ka Rauza

4 km from city center 10 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Dedicated to the memory of the Prime Minister of the court, during the reign of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, Chini ka Rauza is a funerary monument situated on the eastern bank of the Yamuna river in Agra.

11. Jhangir Mahal

1 km from city center 11 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

The residential palace of Jahangir Mahal, stands tall in the Agra Fort complex. Built by Akbar, in the 17th Century, this Red Sandstone marvel is a multi-storeyed palace with a series of courtyards running from north to south, along the eastern fort wall. The palace is located north of Akbari Mahal, another important Mughal marvel that now breathes in its ruins and faces the river Jamuna. One of the most popular tourist places in Agra, the Jahangir Mahal served as a private residence to Akbar’s son and successor, Jahangir. The Jahangir Mahal is one of the first buildings you would come across when you enter Agra through the Amar Singh Gate.

12. Dolphin Water Park

15 km from city center 12 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Inaugurated in 2002, Dolphin World Water Park is spread over an area of 14 acres and is replete with thrilling slides, roller coasters, water and regular rides etc. Besides, it has an amusement park, a play area for kids, locker room and other facilities.

Discover More About Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions in Agra

Sightseeing

Taj Mahal or Tejo Mahalaya? - The Controversy Around India's Most Famous Monument

17 Interesting Facts About Taj Mahal: The Epitome of Eternal Love

Best Water Parks in Agra for a Funtastic Day-out

Historical & Heritage

Things to Do in Agra

Food & Drink

9 Malls in Agra For Shopping, Food, Entertainment and More!

Places to visit near Agra

13. Anguri Bagh

1 km from city center 13 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Centrally situated in the premises of Khas Mahal, Anguri Bagh was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1637. As the name suggests, Khas Mahal (or Aramgah- i - Muqaddasa) was constructed for the emperor as his exalted place of leisure and rest.

14. Taj Museum

3 km from city center 14 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Located inside the Taj Mahal complex, the museum was established in 1982 on the western ends of the Taj Gardens. The tiny but terrific depository is a double-storeyed building with a quadrangle projection outside.

15. Kalakriti Dance Drama Show

5 km from city center 15 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Staging the popular play of Mohobbat-e-Taj, Kalkriti Culture and Convention Centre is a must-visit in Agra. This theatrical performance narrates the tale of the Taj Mahal's origin and is located close to the wonder of India.

16. Wildlife SOS

17 km from city center 16 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Wildlife SOS is a non-profit organisation in India that rescues and rehabilitates wild animals and forests. Its Agra Bear Rescue Facility is the largest sloth bear rescue facility in the world housing 130 sloth bears. The Elephant Care and Conservation Centre rescues and rehabilitates abused and captive elephants.

17. Mother Teresa's Missionaries Of Charity

0 km from city center 17 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Located on Ajmer Road in Agra, Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity works for the upbringing, well- being and education of the orphaned kids in addition to caring for the elderly and the homeless.

18. Friends Gokulam Fun City Water Park

15 km from city center 18 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Friends Gokulam Fun City Water Park is the second largest water park in Agra. Spread over vast acres of land, the water park boasts of a number of slides, roller coasters and fun rides both for adults and kids.

19. Ram Barat

19 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

The Ram Barat is a joyous and one of the most important festivals in Northern India held in September every year. It celebrates the divine marriage ceremony of Lord Rama by taking out his marriage procession and carrying out all the ceremonies related to marriage.

Places To Visit In Nearby Places

FAQs on Agra

What are the top hotels in agra, what are the top activities in agra, can you suggest an itinerary for agra, how can i commute within agra, what are the top restaurants in agra, what are the top sightseeing places in agra, browse package collections, agra package collections.

Taj Mahal Tour Packages

Nearby Destinations for Packages

Top listed packages.

Delhi Sightseeing Tour Package: Agra & Ranthambhore National Park

Delhi Agra Shimla Manali Tour Package: Offbeat Tour by Car

Delhi Agra 2 Days Tour Package - Taj Mahal

Delhi Agra Rajasthan Tour Package with Boat Ride on Lake Pichola

Rajasthan 10 Days Itinerary

Delhi Agra Tour Package 3 Days - Excursion to Rishikesh & Haridwar

Delhi Agra Mathura Tour Package: India Golden Triangle Tour

Agra Mathura Vrindavan Tour Package - 3 Nights 4 Days

Explore Related Destinations

Golden Triangle India

Similar Places

Filter ( 0 selected)

Get the best offers on travel packages.

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

11 Places to Visit Around Agra Beyond the Taj Mahal

EyesWideOpen / Contributor/Getty Images

Tourists usually prefer not to stay very long in Agra, as it's renowned for being a rather unappealing city with a lot of touts. However, there are quite a few worthwhile places to visit in Agra and around, apart from India's most famous monument -- the Taj Mahal. The many interesting remnants of the Mughal era (predating the Taj Mahal) will intrigue you and the crazy, congested bazaars of the Old City will captivate you. It's possible to experience village life and get close to nature as well. You may be surprised by what's on offer!

Plan your trip to Agra with this useful Taj Mahal and Agra travel guide.

This UNESCO Word Heritage site is one of the most robust and important Mughal forts in India. After arriving in Agra in 1558, Emperor Akbar extensively rebuilt the fort using red sandstone. The process took eight years and was completed in 1573. The fort retained its stature until Shah Jahan shifted the Mughal capital from Agra to Delhi in 1638. It lost much of its grandeur after his death in 1666, and during the 18th century was repetitively invaded and captured. Finally, it fell into the hands of the British in 1803. Although many of the buildings inside the fort have been destroyed, some mosques , public and private audience halls, fairy-tale palaces, towers, and courtyards still remain. Another attraction is the evening sound and light show that recreates the fort's history. If budget is a concern, it's advisable to skip the less-impressive Red Fort in Delhi in favor of Agra Fort. Read more about Agra fort and how to visit it.

Agra's Other Tombs

Agra has two significant tombs, with impressive Islamic-style architecture, that existed before the Taj Mahal but have subsequently been overshadowed by it. One of them contains the body of Emperor Akbar, widely considered to be the most influential Mughal emperor. It was completed in 1614 and is situated in Sikandra, on the northwest outskirts of Agra on the road to Mathura. (Tickets cost 300 rupees for foreigners and 25 rupees for Indians). His wife's body is housed in another tomb nearby, with a similar entrance fee.

The tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah was the first to be made out of white marble (instead of the red sandstone typical of Mughal architecture) and is often referred to as the "Baby Taj". It's located amid a small garden alongside the Yamuna River, and contains the body of Mirza Ghiyas Beg who served under Akbar. His daughter married Akbar's son, Jehangir, and he was later appointed chief minister. (Tickets cost 300 rupees for foreigners and 25 rupees for Indians).

Agra Magic conducts a half-day tour of the monuments.

Mehtab Bagh

Don’t want to pay the hefty admission fee or battle the crowds to visit the Taj Mahal? Or, simply want an alternative perspective of it? You can clearly see the Taj from across the river bank. One such place with a view to remember is Mehtab Bagh, the "Moonlight Garden". This 25 acre Mughal garden complex is situated directly opposite the monument and was actually built before the Taj, by Emperor Babur (the founder of the Mughal Empire). It fell into ruin but has been beautifully reconstructed. The entry cost is 300 rupees for foreigners and 25 rupees for Indians, and it's open until sunset.

Mughal Heritage Walk Through Kachhpura Village

WIN-Initiative/Getty Images

The Mughal Heritage Walk is a community-based tourism initiative that was started by CURE (Center for Urban and Regional Excellence) to help villagers make an income from tourism and improve their living conditions. This 1 kilometer (0.6 mile) walk is conducted by villagers who have been trained as tour guides. It takes place on the riverside opposite the Taj Mahal, goes through Kachhpura village, and ends at Mehtab Bagh. You'll get to visit a number of lesser-known monuments of the Mughal Era in a rural setting, interact with the village communities, and enjoy a fabulous view of the Taj Mahal as well. For more information and bookings, contact Radhey Mohan on 92594-82266 (cell).

Taj Nature Walk

Get away from the crowds and enjoy the Taj Mahal surrounded by nature. Less than 500 meters (0.3 miles) from the East Gate, on Fatehabad Road, there's a 70 hectare reserve forest that provides a unique opportunity to admire the monument in different hues and settings. You can wander through its paths to various viewpoints, watch towers, and rest areas. The reserve is open daily from sunrise until sunset. The entry fee is 100 rupees for foreigners and 20 rupees for Indians.

Sheroes Hangout

Tucked away between trinket shops opposite The Gateway Hotel on Fatehabad Road is groovy graffiti-filled cafe that's a must-visit in Agra.   The remarkable and inspiring Sheroes (She+Heroes) Hangout is completely staffed by women who are survivors of horrific acid attacks in India. It opened in December 2014 and was founded by a Delhi-based NGO called Stop Acid Attacks.  The idea is to raise awareness of this dreadful issue and give the women confidence to show their faces in public after being disfigured. As well as serving tasty food and beverages, the cafe has an ever-expanding library (so you can relax and read while you eat) and an exhibition space.

The Bazaars of the Old City

To experience the heart of Agra, head to the fascinating and congested Old City behind 17th century Jama Masjid mosque. There, you'll encounter a tangle of narrow lanes housing a startling variety of wares including spices, clothes, saris, jewelry, shoes, crafts and snack stalls. This area can be quite overwhelming if you don't know your way around. Hence, taking a guided walking tour is a good idea. It will also enable you to discover offbeat attractions such as the concealed Mankameshwar temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Options include this tour offered by Agra Magic and this tour offered by Wandertrails.

Agra Vegetable Market

gnomeandi/Getty Images

For a vibrant spectacle, get up early and head over to the wholesale vegetable market on Fatehabad Road. This energetic market, which takes place in a vacant lot, is a distribution hub for produce from all over India. Colorfully painted trucks bring in the produce and deposit it in piles, all arranged by type. Vendors sit surrounded by the tempting, edible displays. The market winds up by 9 a.m., so don't be late. You can also take this guided tour to visit vegetable markets in Agra.

Agra Bear Rescue Center

Chaithanya Krishna Photography/Getty Images

Wildlife SOS operates the Agra Bear Rescue Center, which houses sloth bears that used to be held captive and forced to dance. The center is open every day from sunrise to sunset and is located on National Highway 19, inside Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary. It's about 50 minutes northwest of Agra on the way to Mathura. The entry cost, charged by the forest department, is 50 rupees for Indians and 500 rupees for foreigners. This enables visitors to access an enclosed viewing area and watch a short educational movie. However, if you want to get closer to the bears, you'll need to pay 1,500 rupees per person for a private guided tour. This must be booked in advance and is recommended. Otherwise, you may be disappointed with the lack of interaction. There are three tour slots per day: 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Wildlife SOS also has an Elephant Conservation and Care Center , about 15 minutes further along the highway towards Mathura, where you can spend time with rescued elephants.

Korai Village

On the way to Fatehpur Sikhri, drop into Korai Village rural tourism initiative. Korai is a tribal village, whose inhabitants were the keepers of dancing sloth bears. They've been struggling to earn an income and survive since the bears were taken away, as they were not provided with compensation. You'll be able to learn about and experience daily village life, and even meet the village magician, Mohammad. The cost to enter the village is $10 per person.

Fatehpur Sikri

Tuul & Bruno Morandi/Getty Images

Fatehpur Sikri is situated about an hour west of Agra and is a popular side trip, although touts and beggars have become a huge menace. This abandoned city was founded by Emperor Akbar in 1571, when he decided to move his capital there from Agra Fort, and is one of India's top historical destinations . Unfortunately, the capital was short-lived and relocated back to Agra. What remains is among the finest examples of Mughal architecture in India. Plan your trip with this Fatehpur Sikri travel guide.

The Ultimate Guide to the Taj Mahal in India

How to Visit Agra Fort: The Complete Guide

Fatehpur Sikri in India: The Complete Guide

20 Top Things to Do in Diverse India

14 Famous Forts and Palaces in India that You Must See

12 Most Popular Historical Monuments of India

One Week in Delhi: The Perfect Itinerary

Essential Guide to Visiting Mandu in Madhya Pradesh

Delhi's Jama Masjid: The Complete Guide

Delhi's Red Fort: The Complete Guide

12 Top Historical Places in India You Must Visit

How to Travel from Delhi to Agra by Train, Bus, and Car

The Best Day Trips to Take From Delhi

Humayun's Tomb in Delhi: The Complete Guide

15 Top Tourist Places to Visit in North India

10 Iconic Attractions and Places to Visit in Delhi

14 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Agra

Written by Joni Sweet Updated Mar 22, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The Taj Mahal is an icon of India and one of the top tourist attractions in the world , drawing millions of visitors to the city of Agra every year. This breathtaking landmark is every bit as incredible as you've imagined. But while most travelers might be eager to escape Agra's pushy touts and exhausting crowds as soon as they've left the Taj Mahal, you should consider sticking around a bit longer.

The Taj Mahal is just one of many amazing places to visit in Agra. While here, you can explore the historically significant Agra Fort ; experience the impressively beautiful Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah ; see one of the largest mosques in India at Fatehpur Sikri; and find respite in Mehtab Bagh , a serene park in the shadows of the Taj.

Animal lovers, take note: Agra boasts two compassionate wildlife projects (the Agra Bear Rescue Facility and the Elephant Conservation and Care Center ) that welcome tourists to learn about some of India's most beloved creatures.

Don't let other tourists convince you there's nothing to see in Agra besides the Taj Mahal. Plan your trip to this heritage hot spot with our list of the top attractions in Agra.

1. Taj Mahal

2. agra fort, 3. itimad-ud-daulah's tomb, 4. mehtab bagh, 5. subhash emporium, 6. akbar's mausoleum, 7. fatehpur sikri, 8. agra bear rescue facility, 9. elephant conservation and care center, 10. agra's old city, 11. gurudwara guru ka tal, 12. kalakriti cultural & convention center, 13. jama masjid, 14. chini ka rauza, map of attractions & places to visit in agra.

You've seen it in history books, on postcards, and in social media posts. But now, you've made your way to India, and you finally have the chance to see this bucket list destination in real life.

The magnificent structure dates back to the 17th century. Mughal emperor Shah Jahan was heartbroken after his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, passed away during childbirth, and decided to pay tribute to her with a white mausoleum. Construction took more than 20 years to complete and required the manpower of around 20,000 laborers.

There's never a bad time to see the Taj Mahal, but it's worth getting here early–the building seems to radiate at sunrise. Tourists can enter the UNESCO World Heritage Site via the west and east gates. Once inside, explore the ornamental gardens, which feature calming water features that reflect the Taj. Then, head inside the Taj itself and admire its perfect symmetry and white marble with elaborate floral cavings and semiprecious stone inlays.

Sightseeing around the Taj Mahal complex continues at the Kau Ban Mosque , west of the Taj, and the Jawab , a building intended to mirror the mosque and preserve symmetry on the main structure's eastern side.

Hot tip: Hang on to your Taj Mahal ticket–it gives you same-day discounts on entry to other nearby attractions around India , including Fatehpur Sikri and Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb .

Address: Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Tajganj, Agra

Official site: https://www.tajmahal.gov.in/

The Taj Mahal isn't the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Agra–the city is also home to Agra Fort, a centuries-old red sandstone fortress that was once the imperial city for a succession of Mughal rulers.

Sightseeing here is like wandering around a city within a city. The most extraordinary building at Agra Fort is Jahangir Mahal , a massive palace that blends stunning Hindu-inspired features (like overhanging enclosed balconies) with Central Asian architectural elements (such as the signature pointed arches). Inside, tourists can see the gilded central court where royal women once passed their days.

Tourists can also check out a range of other noteworthy structures, including Anguri Bagh (a courtyard with puzzle piece-like outlines of gardens around water channels), Khas Mahal (a palace with pavilions made of white marble and red sandstone), Musamman Burj (an octagonal tower with intricate marble inlay work), and Diwan-i-Khas (a gathering hall featuring a pair of black and white marble thrones).

With so much to see, Agra Fort will require at least a few hours on your itinerary. It makes for a great afternoon stop after a morning at the Taj Mahal.

On the banks of the Yamuna River sits another one of Agra's exquisite structures: Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb. The mausoleum contains the remains of Mirza Ghiyas Beg, a Persian official who served the Mughal empire, as well as his wife.

Legend has it that this jewelry box-like tomb was actually the inspiration for the Taj Mahal , earning it the nickname "Baby Taj." The red sandstone and marble structure features 13-meter-high hexagonal towers on each corner.

The most noteworthy thing about this attraction, though, is that it was the first structure to use pietra dura , the iconic Indian inlay technique that uses semiprecious stones to create decorative floral designs in marble. You'll see exquisite geometric patterns, depictions of vases and cups, and delicate flower bouquets from floor to ceiling of the graceful structure–reminiscent of those on the Taj Mahal.

Despite its beauty, Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb gets far fewer visitors than other attractions around Agra, making it an ideal place to appreciate the lovely features without the crowds.

Address: Moti Bagh, Agra

The Taj Mahal almost seems to extend across the Yamuna River at Mehtab Bagh (Moonlight Garden), a square garden complex measuring 300 meters on each side. It's the only remaining park in a series of nearly a dozen Mughal-built gardens in the area.

The park has some pretty flowering trees and bushes–a stark improvement from its state in the mid-1990s, when the site was just a mound of sand. The Archeological Survey of India is hard at work restoring Mehtab Bagh and has already planted Mughal-era plants to help bring the site back to its original glory.

The landscape aligns perfectly with the gardens of the Taj, making it one of the best places in Agra to get a view (or a photo) of the stunning structure–especially at sunset. Outside of the gates to the complex, you can shop for Taj Mahal trinkets and other souvenirs from sellers in the area.

Address: Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Nagla Devjit, Agra

The graceful attractions around Agra will make any tourist fall in love with marble inlay. If you find yourself eager to take a piece of this craftsmanship home with you, head to Subhash Emporium. The boutique has a decades-strong reputation as the go-to place to shop for stone handicrafts in Agra.

Inside, you'll find tons of travel-friendly marble inlay souvenirs, like floral coaster sets, animal statuettes, small boxes, and candle holders. The store also sells larger items, like lamps, tabletops, and carved-marble trays, that it can ship directly to your home.

Even if you don't want to shop, it's worth swinging by Subhash Emporium for its captivating demonstrations –one of the top things to do in Agra. The experienced craftspeople here will show you the precise art of inlaying small pieces of polished stone into hard marble–which might make the high prices of these items seem slightly more reasonable.

Address: 18/1, Gwalior Road, Opp BSNL office, Shahzadi Mandi, Agra

Official site: http://www.marbleemporium.com

For nearly 50 years, emperor Akbar the Great ruled the Mughal kingdom, tripling its empire to include most of the northern half of the Indian subcontinent. His remains (along with those of two of his daughters) can be found at what is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in Agra, Akbar's Mausoleum.

The complex features a marvelous sandstone and marble tomb with striking marble inlay in a variety of colors. The structure is surrounded by Mughal gardens that are home to deer, antelope, monkeys, and even a few peacocks.

If you happen to travel with a compass, whip it out at this site. You'll notice that the tomb faces east–a contrast to nearly all other Mughal tombs, which point toward Mecca.

Address: Sikandra, Agra

Just an hour's drive from the Taj Mahal , Fatehpur Sikri makes for a worthwhile day trip from Agra. The city, once the capital of the Mughal Empire some 500 years ago, was built by Akbar as a salute to the famous Sufi saint, Shaikh Salim Chishti, who accurately predicted the birth of an heir. Residents abandoned the city not long after it was built, when water supplies ran too low.

Tourists can now explore the well-preserved remains of this red sandstone ghost town, still surrounded by a fortification wall. Check out the Jama Masjid , a mosque and one of the first buildings finished in the city. Then, explore the three palaces , built for each one of Akbar's wives. They combine a variety of religious-inspired architectural styles that honor the women's individual spiritualities.

Finally, get off the beaten path and stroll to Hiran Minar , a circular spiked tower covered with stone elephant tusks, atop which Akbar himself supposedly gazed at wildlife.

Dig in deeper to this incredible site with a visit to the Archaeological Museum , near the Diwan-i-Am main gate. It contains four galleries filled with treasures from the Mughal era and beyond, including grey ware pot shreds, terra-cotta lamps, mini human heads in stone, jewelry molds, and much more.

Between its reverence for cows and its temples dedicated to specific creatures, India has a fascinating relationship with animals. But not every tradition has been kind to four-legged creatures. Case in point: Dancing sloth bears.

For thousands of years, India's Kalandar community has poached sloth bear cubs, driven a red hot poker and coarse rope through their muzzles and yanked on the string to force them to put on painful "performances" for a paying audience. India prohibited the cruel practice in 1972. However, the mistreatment continued–leaving animal rights activists, such as Wildlife SOS , to save the victimized bears.

You can see around 130 of these rescued dancing bears playing, foraging, and climbing trees at Agra Bear Rescue Facility. Visits to the center include a tour guided by an expert who can shed light on India's vanishing wildlife and conservation efforts. It's an insightful experience, and all proceeds go toward rehabilitation efforts.

Address: Inde, National Highway 2, Muranda, Agra

Official site: https://wildlifesos.org/locations/agra-bear-rescue-facility/

Sloth bears aren't the only focus for Wildlife SOS –the animal protection organization also takes care of abused elephants at a sanctuary just 30 kilometers outside of Agra. On tours of the facility, you can see more than 20 rescued elephants that were forced to work in harsh conditions. Lucky tourists may even be invited to help prepare lunch for the tusked mammals.

While you will definitely have other opportunities to interact with elephants on your trip to India, visiting the Elephant Conservation and Care Center is by far one of the most ethical (and fulfilling) ways to get up close to these special creatures.

Address: Near Sachdeva Institute of Technology Thurmura Ghari, NH2, Mathura

Official site: https://wildlifesos.org/locations/elephant-conservation-and-care-centre/

For an authentic look at the life of Agra's present-day residents, take a heritage walking tour around the Old City . The three-hour excursion teaches tourists about Agra's architecture, history, culture, and street food as they wander around the neighborhood.

You'll get the chance to see what everyday life is like for Agra locals, learn where to go for the best views of the Taj Mahal, and stop by the bustling wholesale spice market for an explosion of color and aroma. Come hungry–the tour guide will also take you to Agra's oldest sweet shop for some treats.

Mughals may have spread Islam throughout this part of India, but the region around Agra is also home to a devout Sikh community. Many of them make pilgrimages to Gurudwara Guru ka Tal, a spiritual center near Agra.

This peaceful place was built in the 17th century, and modern-day tourists can see the eight towers that remain of the structure's original dozen. Tourists can also enjoy free meals from the community kitchen–perfect for refueling before a trip back to the city.

Address: Chennai-Delhi Highway, Maharishi Puram Colony, Agra

Official site: http://www.gurdwaragurukataal.com/

The Kalakriti Cultural & Convention Center is on a mission to deepen tourists' appreciation of Indian art and culture. Every evening at 6:30pm, it puts on a performance of "Mohabbat-the-Taj: The Saga of Love," a dramatic musical that brings the legendary love story of the Taj Mahal to life. Expect Bollywood-inspired dance and song throughout the hour-long show. Afterward, head to the center's handicrafts showroom to shop for intricately designed marble inlay souvenirs and other treasures.

Address: 41/142, A/1 VIP Road-Taj Mahal Road, Fatehabad Road., Agra

One of India's largest mosques can be found in the historic core of Agra, just across from the Agra Fort . Still the city's principal mosque, the Jama Masjid was built during the 17th century under the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. The striking red sandstone structure stands atop a platform, and features remarkable white marble inlay with blue-washed ceilings and walls. Throughout the interior, tourists can see graceful inlaid panels similar to those at the Taj Mahal.

The Friday prayer service draws massive crowds to the Jama Masjid, but outside of that time, it's relatively empty. The mosque encourages tourists to observe silence when visiting this sacred place.

Address: Jama Masjid Road, Kinari Bazar, Hing ki Mandi, Mantola, Agra

After visiting Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb , head one kilometer north to see Chini ka Rauza, a funerary monument that houses the tomb of Afzal Khan Shirazi, who served as the prime minister for Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.

While not nearly as well preserved as other attractions in Agra, the Indo-Persian structure is noteworthy for being the first monument to feature chini, a distinctive decoration made from turquoise, yellow, green, and orange glazed tiles. As the name of the building suggests, each of its tiles were imported from China–an impressive feat during the 17th century, when this monument was constructed. Step inside Chini ka Rauza to see an array of detailed paintings and Islamic inscriptions.

After visiting the Chini ka Rauza, you can take a 10-minute walk south to see the ruins of the Tomb of Sultan Parwiz , who was the brother of Shah Jahan.

Address: Katra Wazir Khan, Agra

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Places to Visit in India: India is filled with incredible sights and cities and planning a trip here can be a bit daunting. If you are just getting started on your itinerary, have a look at our guide to the Top Attractions in India . Most visitors will transit through either Mumbai or Delhi , both of which are home to a long list of things to see and do.

More on India

• Destinations

11 Must-See Places to Visit in Agra Beyond the Taj Mahal

There are so many stunning places to visit in Agra, India! From the iconic Taj Mahal to the majestic Agra Fort, the city is full of historical, incredible and fun things to do.

Agra is one of the most popular destinations for travelers in India. Most of all, because it is home to the Taj Mahal! It’s also near Delhi and Jaipur. Many people visit all 3 cities as part of the “Golden Triangle.”

Many of the iconic places to visit in Agra were built during the Mughal empire. There are many architectural marvels and absolutely beautiful sights to see. There’s so much history here!

This post covers the must-see places to visit in Agra for tourists. It features the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, famous gardens, popular shopping places, historical monuments and more!

I traveled to Agra for the first time in 2017 and was absolutely blown away. At the time, I had only ever heard of it because of the Taj Mahal. I traveled back since then and realized there are actually so many other amazing places to visit in Agra too!

This post is all about the best places to visit in Agra.

You Might Also Like:

Best Places to Travel in India: Top Destinations for Each State

Ultimate India Packing List: 49 Must-Haves to Bring on Your Trip

8 Famous Tourist Attractions in India You Have to Visit

Places to Visit in Agra

Since EVERYONE knows about the Taj Mahal, I wanted to share a list of the many other places to visit in Agra that are sometimes missed!

#1 Agra Fort

If you look for places to visit in Agra, the two absolute must-see spots are the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Agra Fort is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was similarly built during the Mughal Dynasty.

It’s a massive fort built out of sandstone which gives it a unique look with a red color. Before the capital was changed to Delhi, Agra was the capital and the fort was the main home for the Mughals. Agra Fort is really massive and you can spend a long time exploring inside.

Within the fort, there are a lot of different structures and areas that were used by the Mughals. It’s really fascinating to imagine what life was like for them when you see the different palaces and halls inside!

#2 Mehtab Bagh

The Mehtab Bagh is a restored garden complex situated directly across the river from the Taj Mahal. It’s really popular especially for photographers because it’s the perfect place to take incredible pictures of the Taj Mahal. The view is just absolutely amazing and it’s beautiful to see at sunset!

The Mehtab Bagh is also known as Moonlight Garden because of the views it offers and it’s a great way to enjoy the beauty of the Taj Mahal without all the crowd. Albeit, at a distance but it is also along the Yamuna River which is one of the most revered rivers in India!

Overall, the Mehtab Bagh is a great place to relax and enjoy the greenery. It’s full of various plants and flowers that were typical of Mughal gardens. You can enjoy relaxing or strolling around the gardens while taking in the views!

#3 Itmad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb

Itmad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb is another one of the most iconic places to visit in Agra. It’s known as the Baby Taj! It looks very similar with the architectural style and white marble, but it’s much smaller than the actual Taj Mahal.

The tomb is famous for its intricate carvings and details. It’s also from the 1600’s and is a tomb for Mirza Ghiyas Beg who was actually a Persian noble that migrated to India and became highly important in the Mughal court.

It’s a beautiful site to explore and doesn’t have the same crowds as the Taj Mahal. The architecture and murals are really beautiful and it’s really quite unbelievable that they could make these structures so long ago!

#4 Chini Ka Rauza

Chini Ka Rauza is another famous tomb in Agra. It’s the tomb of the old prime minister of the Mughal Emperor who was also a scholar and poet, Allama Afzal Khan Mullah. This isn’t one of the most well-known places to visit in Agra, but it’s a beautiful structure to visit if you’re there!

The tomb is most recognized for the glazed tile work that covers the outside. A lot of the tile work has faded or been lost over time, but there are still some sections which are there and it’s really beautiful! Back in the 1600’s when it was built, it would’ve been colorful with blue, green and yellow.

This architecture is a bit different from what you see at the Taj Mahal because it has Persian influence. So, it’s quite a unique spot to see! It could use some restoration but I’d still recommend it if you’re looking for things to see during your trip to Agra.

#5 Aram Bagh

The Aram Bagh is known as the oldest Mughal garden in India! It was built in the 1500’s and is a Persian-style garden. It’s a beautiful area along the Yamuna River and is the perfect place to relax or go for a stroll.

There are paths, fountains and areas to rest alongside the lush greenery and flowers in the garden. You can also see some old abandoned structures like the Battish Khamba and Battees Minar. They aren’t really well-kept but they are still interesting to see,

If you’re looking for some places to visit in Agra away from the tourist crowds, Aram Bagh doesn’t take much time and is a nice spot to check out!

#6 Kalakriti Cultural & Convention Center

This is a hidden GEM! It’s not popularly known as one of the best places to visit in Agra, but it is! My friend and I stumbled upon it when we were looking for things to do in Agra and they have an incredible show called “Mohabbat the Taj.”

I highly recommend people to check out this performance at the center! It’s a beautiful story about the history of the Taj Mahal and why it was built. The performers do an incredible job and it’s a fun way to spend the evening.

I didn’t know much about the Taj Mahal history when I went to Agra and this show was honestly how I learned so much! The theater itself is beautiful and you can wear headphones to hear the performance in English. Aside from the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, this is my top recommendation for things to do in Agra!

#7 Tomb of Akbar

The Tomb of Akbar is about 20-30 minutes drive from the main tourist attractions in Agra but is an interesting place to experience! Akbar the Great was one of the most renowned emperors of the Mughal Dynasty. There are many famous stories about him and his minister which are especially popular for children, known as Akbar and Birbal.

Akbar actually started constructing the tomb himself in the 1600’s, although his son would go on to complete it. It’s interesting because of the blend of religious and cultural traditions that are featured at the tomb, including Islamic, Hindu and Buddhist motifs.

The tomb is surrounded by beautiful gardens and it’s overall a really breathtaking place to see! While visiting the Tomb of Akbar, you can also check out the nearby tomb for his wife, Mariam-uz-Zamani.

#8 Tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani

Near Akbar’s tomb, you’ll find the Tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani. She was Akbar’s wife and the mother of Jahangir who is well-known and became the emperor after his father. She was also a princess from Rajasthan and overall, had a lot of influence during Akbar’s rule. Girl power!

Her tomb is also a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles. It’s relatively simple compared to many of the other Mughal tombs and could use some restoration, but it’s still very beautiful and I loved learning about her history!

The tomb is also surrounded by gardens. It’s a quick stop but worth it if you are going to visit Akbar’s tomb or be near that area in Sikandra!

#9 Sadar Bazaar

Who doesn’t love a little shopping! Sadar Bazaar is one of the most popular markets in Agra. It’s an area near Agra Cantt Railway Station and Mall Road, which is close to the main attractions of the city. It’s super lively and bustling which can be a little overwhelming, but that’s also how famous markets will be!

Sadar Bazaar is known for having all sorts of items including local handicrafts, marble textiles and garments. You can find a lot of marble designs which are similar to the Taj Mahal, so makes for a great souvenir! Agra is also famous for its leather industry and you can find some amazing leather goods for reasonable prices.

You will definitely need to be prepared to bargain! No matter where you travel in India, bargaining is the norm. Especially if you look like a foreigner, you’re likely going to get ripped off. It can be hard knowing what would be a good price, but as a general rule I try to bargain for 50% the price of whatever they ask and go from there. Kinari Bazaar and Subhash Bazaar are also popular markets to check out.

There’s also delicious cafes around Sadar Bazaar and the street food is amazing. You have to try the chaats! My favorite snacks are papdi chaat and dahi bhalla.

#10 The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception

The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is a lesser known spot to visit in Agra. If you’re interested in seeing and learning more about the Christian influence in Agra, it’s a nice and quick place to visit.

The cathedral is beautiful with a European style that’s different from the Mughal architecture you find in other parts of the city. It was built when the Portuguese and British were present in India. It has a serene atmosphere because it’s used regularly as a place of worship, but it’s also open for tourists to see inside and is very colorful!

This cathedral is one of the major points for Christians around the Agra region. They host a lot of events for the community throughout the year and it’s an especially popular place for people to come during Christmas and Easter.

#11 Wildlife SOS: Elephant Conservation and Care Center

Wildlife SOS is located about 45 minutes-1 hour from Agra by car. It’s a rescue center for elephants and they help rehabilitate elephants that were previously abused. This is a totally different place to visit than the usual sight-seeing spots in Agra, but it’s perfect for animal lovers or families!

The staff at Wildlife SOS really care deeply about the elephants and are super knowledgeable. They offer guided tours and will tell you different stories about the elephants there. It can be a bit disheartening to hear their stories, but also very inspiring to learn how they treat the elephants and the progress they make.

If you visit Wildlife SOS, you are bound to fall in love with the elephants there! They are super majestic animals and you feel really connected to them once you see them and learn about them. National Chambal Sanctuary is another spot in the opposite direction outside Agra that offers safaris and is great for wildlife and nature enthusiasts, families too.

The Taj Mahal

Apart from this list, I still want to say that obviously you HAVE to see the Taj Mahal in Agra. Not only is it the most popular of places to visit in Agra, it’s one of the most iconic spots in India. The Taj Mahal is absolutely stunning and breathtaking. It’s surrounded by beautiful gardens and there’s plenty of space to explore.

If you go during peak season like I did, expect long lines and a lot of people. Honestly if you can avoid the crowd then it’s better to go at a less busy time because it did impact the experience. They make Indians wait in line for hours to enter but expats can skip the line and go right to the front (I was literally so uncomfortable with this!)

Nonetheless, the Taj Mahal is famous worldwide and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built in the 1600’s during the Mughal empire for the emperor’s wife. The architecture, marble, and details make it truly remarkable!

This post was all about must-see places to visit in Agra.

Also Check Out:

Travel Guide to India: Everything You Need to Know to for a Great Vacation!

7 Incredible Places to Travel in South India for Expats

Where to Travel in India Based on Your Vacation Style

You may also like

13 Famous Places to Visit in Mumbai for First-Timers

Golden Triangle, India: Planning, Tips, and Inspirations for the Perfect Trip

Rafting in Rishikesh: A Complete Guide for Adventure Seekers

Previous Post

9 Places to Visit in Agra Besides the Taj Mahal

Agra is world-renowned for being the home of the iconic Taj Mahal and while many travelers will make the journey to this Indian city just to marvel at the marble walls and landscaped gardens of the country’s most instantly recognizable sight, there are many more great places to visit in Agra too.

After gazing in awe at the spectacular Taj Mahal, stay around in the city for longer to explore the rest of the sites in Agra.

This is a city with an incredibly rich history and in Agra, you can find sprawling forts, resplendent tombs and exquisite palaces alongside a vibrant culture, lively markets and excellent cuisine.

To help inspire you to venture beyond the Taj Mahal, here are the best places to visit in Agra.  

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet India (Travel Guide)

9 Best Places in Agra to Visit Besides the Taj Mahal

Table of Contents

The Taj Mahal aside, there are some great places to visit in Agra. Inside the city, you can find a huge array of sights that are equally as important as the Taj Mahal. Outside the city, you can find some impressive ancient attractions and wonderful wildlife reserves. 

1. Agra Fort

The second most famous of the many places to visit in Agra is Agra Fort. After the Taj Mahal, this is one of the most well known and visited attractions in the city.

The sprawling fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and for centuries it was the residence of the Mughal Emperors, who ruled vast swathes of India from Agra and built many of the iconic sights that you see here today.

Most of the fort can be traced back to the 16th century, but there have long been fortifications in this strategic spot in Agra. The fort is known for its distinctive red walls, built high from sandstone.

The complex is enormous and you can easily spend hours exploring all of the hidden passageways and strolling through the grounds. There are several gateways into the fort, and the walls run alongside the river, offering sweeping views over the water.

Our top recommended tours of Agra Fort:

• Agra Fort Entrance Ticket
• Taj Mahal, Agra Fort & Jahangir Palace Tour
• Sunrise Taj Mahal & Agra Fort Tour by Car
• Private: Same day Taj Mahal And Agra Fort Tour By Car

2. Jahangir Palace

Within Agra’s red fort, you can find the beautiful Jahangir Palace. The ornate designs and intricate architecture are wonderful to see, while the history behind the palace is equally as intriguing.

The palace was built for Emperor Jahangir in the 17th century and this was where the Emperor’s wives would live and spend most of their time.

Perhaps the most famous resident was Nur Jahan, an Empress who wielded as much power as the male rulers themselves.  

Our top recommended tours of Jahangir Palace:

• A Tour of Orchha

3. Khas Mahal

Also found within the red walls of the vast Agra Fort is the Khas Mahal. This distinctive marble palace was where Shah Jahan, the ruler who ordered the design and construction of the Taj Mahal in honor of his wife, was held for years when he was overthrown by his own son.

From the tower, he would have been able to see the most iconic legacy of his rule in India, the minarets of the Taj Mahal itself. The Khas Mahal is a monument to both the opulence of the Mughal rulers and the strife of their power plays.

4. Mehtab Bagh

Mehtab Bagh is one of the most peaceful and serene gardens to be found in the city. It’s one of the best places to visit in Agra because from here, you can see the resplendent glory of the Taj Mahal without any of the crowds.

This wonderful green garden was built far before the Taj Mahal was designed, but from the almost symmetrical placement of the Taj Mahal across the river, you would think otherwise.

Get here early for great photo opportunities of the Taj Mahal in the morning light and mist over the wide river.

The gardens were initially built by the famous Emperor Babur before the Taj Mahal was constructed decades later by a successor to the throne.

Legend has it that Emperor Shah Jahan who built the Taj Mahal was also planning to build a second Taj Mahal-esque building in the Mehtab Bagh gardens where he would be entombed after his death.

The so-called Black Taj Mahal is one of Agra’s most enduring fables.

Our top recommended tours of Mehtab Bagh:

• Mehtab Bagh Admission Ticket with Optional Transportation
• Taj Mahal Private Sunrise & Sunset Tour
• Exclusive Agra Tour With Lunch
• Private Day Trip By Train: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort & Mehtab Bagh

5. Tomb of Itimad-ad Daulah

One of the best places to visit in Agra is the Tomb of Itimad-ad Daulah, the lavish resting place of the father of Nur Jahan, an important empress.

The mausoleum is also known colloquially as the Baby Taj because the resplendent marble facade and distinctive design are thought to be a preamble to the even more extravagant Taj Mahal which followed a few decades later.

It’s equally as impressive, and you will also find that the Baby Taj is much less crowded and a lot quieter to experience than the Taj Mahal.

Our top recommended tour of Tomb of Itimad-ad Daulah: Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah Baby Taj Admission Ticket with Optional Transportation

6. Akbar’s Tomb

Agra is a city of tombs and mausoleums and another impressive sight to see is Akbar’s Tomb. This grand, red, sandstone building is a stark contrast to the Taj Mahal.

Not only because of the color but because of the designs. It marks an architectural period that predates the opulence of the later tombs. Akbar’s Tomb was constructed before the Taj Mahal at the start of the 17th century.

Our top recommended tours of Akbar’s Tomb:

• Visit to Sikandra Mausoleum of Emperor Akbar the great
• Experience Agra (Land of Tombs) Built by Mughals
• Village Walk in Surroundings of Akbar Tomb
• Mughal Agra tour from Delhi

7. Kinari Bazaar

When you are tired of endless tombs and opulent pieces of architecture then head to the Kinari Bazaar to experience another side of life in the city.

This is one of the best places to visit in Agra, because at the Kinari Bazaar you can shop, haggle, eat and take in the vibrant, chaotic nature of day to day Indian living.

The Bazaar is a maze of colorful alleyways and shops which you can spend hours walking through. There is a huge array of goods to be found here and you might find yourself returning from the Kinari Bazaar with more than a few great value souvenirs.

Our top recommended tours of Kinari Bazaar:

• Old Agra Private Food and Walking Tour
• Extensive Agra Fort and colorful Kinari Bazaar Tour
• Agra Biking Tour: City Sightseeing and Traditional Markets
• A Walk Through Time: Touring Old Agra

8. Fatehpur Sikri

A day trip away from Agra is the historic city of Fatehpur Sikri. This grand city was the mammoth project of the Mughal Emporer Akhbar, whose tomb is found in Agra.

He started the construction of Fatehpur Sikri in order to build a new capital for his empire. Within decades though, the new capital was abandoned.

The huge palaces fell into disuse after Akbar passed away and the site became unlivable due to lack of water. The British repaired many of the buildings as they realized the historical importance of Fatehpur Sikri and today it’s one of the best places to visit in Agra.

Our top recommended tours of Fatehpur Sikri:

• Fatehpur Sikri Admission Ticket with Optional Transportation
• Private 5-Night Delhi, Jaipur, Ranthambore, and Agra Tour with Taj Mahal
• 5-Day Delhi Agra Jaipur Tour by Private Car
• Private Day Trip to Fatehpur Sikri And Abhaneri Stepwells From Agra To Jaipur

9. Keoladeo National Park

For a change of scenery when visiting Agra, head outside of the city to the stunning Keoladeo National Park. This protected wilderness is known as one of the best bird watching reserves in India and every year you can experience first hand some of the most incredible bird migrations in the world.

Species fly here from as far afield as Siberia during the winter to find warmer breeding grounds. The national park is one of the best places to visit in Agra as it’s just an hour down the road but a world away from the smog and chaos of the city’s streets. 

Our top recommended tours of Keoladeo National Park:

• Full-Day Private Tour to Bharatpur from Agra
• Ranthambhore Tiger Tour of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur
• Full-Day Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary with Fatehpur Sikri
• Experience Keoladeo NP & Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary From Agra

Best Time of Year to Visit Agra

Agra can realistically be visited all year round, as most of the major attractions are found within the city and not necessarily weather dependent.

The north of India experiences very little rainfall and you will find that it’s dry and dusty. The short monsoon season is from June to September but despite the rainfall, you may find the streets and sights to be much quieter this season.

The peak season for travel to Agra occurs from November to March when the weather is coolest.

Read reviews and check prices with our Hotel Search Engine , that gives you the best hotel deals found on the web. Our search engine pulls results from all of the major booking places, including Expedia, Hotels, Booking and more. All the options, all the deals, all in one place and just for you.

How to Travel to Agra

Agra is found in the north of India, in the diverse state of Uttar Pradesh. The city is one of the largest and most visited in the country and it’s well connected to the rest of India.

The small airport has few flights available, aside from domestic routes to other large Indian cities such as Delhi.

Most travelers will fly into the capital, Delhi, on international flights, as the city has flights to almost anywhere else in the world.

From Delhi, it’s just 150 miles south to Agra, a journey that can easily be completed by bus or train. Getting around Agra is best achieved by hiring a local rickshaw driver for the day, just ensure that you agree on costs and the route beforehand.

Search for Flights: Priceline or Skyscanner offers great deals to India.

More on India:

• Plan the Perfect Taj Mahal Visit in 7 Steps
• 9 Interesting Things to Do in Udaipur
• 9 Best Places to Visit in Pushkar
• 9 Epic Places to Visit in Varanasi
• How To Apply for the India E-Tourist Visa on Arrival
• Jodhpur – Blue City of India Planning Guide
• 15 Cool Things to Do in Jaipur
• Everything You Need to Know About the Pushkar Camel Fair in India
• 21 India Photos That Will Blow Your Mind
• How to Celebrate Holi in India like a Pro

Did you like this story? Share it!

Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• Tour Enquiry
• Sign up | Login
• My Bookings
• New User? Sign-up
• Domestic Tours
• South India
• Maharashtra
• Golden Triangle
• North India
• North East India
• International
• Maldives (Discontinued)
• All Domestic Tours
• All International Tours
• Offbeat Tours
• Domestic Cruise Tours
• Jungle Lodges by JLR
• Kabini River Lodge
• Bandipur Safari Lodge
• JLR Kings Sanctuary
• River Tern Lodge
• Kali Adventure Camp
• Hampi Heritage & Wilderness Resort
• K Gudi Wilderness Camp
• Car Rentals
• Destinations
• Tourist Places on Drive
• Driving Directions
• * Workation
• * Tour Plans
• List Property
• Uttar Pradesh
• Places to Visit in Agra

26 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Agra

• Agra Overview
• Top 26 Places to Visit in Agra
• 24 Best Agra Tour Packages
• Top Resorts in Agra
• Best Time to Visit Agra
• How to Reach Agra
• Driving Directions to Agra
• within 1 km
• within 5 km
• within 10 km
• within 20 km
• within 30 km
• within 40 km
• within 50 km

#1 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 6 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station, Taj Mahal, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, is located on the southern bank of the Yamuna River in Agra of Uttar Pradesh State. Taj Mahal was declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983 and it is also counted among the seven wonders of the modern world. It attracts around four million visitors annually. Taj Mahal is the face of Agra Tourism and among the must include place in your Golden Triangle tour packages . Taj Mahal was commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan (reigned 1628-1658), in the memory of his favorite wife Mumtaz Mahal. The construction of the monument was completed in 1653. The Taj Mahal was constructed under the supervision of architects Abdul-Karim Ma'mur Khan, Makramat Khan and Ustad Ahmad Lahauri. It took 21 years for the Taj Mahal to be constructed .....

...read more

Agra Fort / Agra Red Fort

#2 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 4.5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 2.5 Km from Taj Mahal, The Agra Fort, also known as the Lal Qila or Red Fort, is situated on the banks of Yamuna River in Agra , It is among the prime places to visit in Agra City . Uttar Pradesh. The Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage and one of the best forts in India. Agra Fort was originally a brick fort known as Badalgarh, held by Raja Badal Singh, a Hindu Rajput king (1475 AD). Sikandar Lodi was the first Sultan of Delhi to shift his capital from Delhi to Agra. After Sikandar Lodi died in 1517, his son Ibrahim Lodi held the fort for 9 years until he was defeated and killed in the battle of Panipat in 1526. Several palaces, wells and a mosque were built in the fort during the Lodi period. After the First Battle of Panipat in 1526, the victorious Babur stayed in the fort, in the palace .....

Tomb Of Itimad-ud-Daulah / Baby Taj

#3 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 8 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 3 km from Agra Fort, Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah is a Mughal mausoleum located on the western bank of the Yamuna River near the Yamuna Bridge Railway Station in Agra. The tomb is also known as the Jewel Box or Baby Taj as it looks like a smaller version of the Taj Mahal. It is one of the popular Agra tourist places and also one of the top attractions you must include in Agra packages . It is believed that this tomb was the inspiration behind the construction of the Taj Mahal. Itimad-ud-Daulah is the first monument in India built entirely with marble. The tomb was built between 1622 and 1628 by the Queen of Jahangir, Nur Jahan as a memorial to her father, Mirza Ghiyas. Mirza Ghiyas was an imperial officer and bestowed with the title of Itmad-ud-Daulah (Pillar of State) by Emperor Jahangir. The .....

Akbar's Tomb - Sikandra

#4 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 9.5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station, Akbar's Tomb is located at Sikandra in the suburbs of Agra, on the Mathura road. It is among the top places to visit in Agra . The Tomb of Akbar is an important Mughal architectural masterpiece built in 1605-1613 in Sikandra. It houses the mortal remains of the greatest Mughal Emperor Akbar. The construction of this tomb was started in 1600 by Emperor Akbar himself. After the death of Akbar in 1605, the tomb was completed by his son Jahangir in 1613. However, during the reign of Aurangzeb Alamgir, Rebellious Jats under Raja Ram Jat, ransacked the intricate tomb, plundered and looted all the beautiful gold, jewels, silver and carpets. Extensive repairs were carried out by the British under Lord Curzon. The tomb of Akbar can be entered through an elegant southern gateway similar to Buland .....

Fatehpur Sikri

#5 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 37 km from Agra, 223 km from Delhi and 209 km from Jaipur, Fatehpur Sikri is a deserted fort city in the Agra District of Uttar Pradesh, India. UNESCO declared this complex as a World Heritage Site in 1986. It is one of the popular place to visit along with Golden Triangle tour and also among ideal weekend getaways from Delhi & Noida cities. Akbar, the greatest Mughal Emperor, was commissioned Fatehpur Sikri in 1569. The city was constructed to honour Sufi saint, Sheikh Salim Chisti, who used to live in a cavern on the ridge at Sikri. Akbar revered him very much as the Saint had blessed him with a son who was named Salim in 1569. Akbar shifted his capital from Agra to Sikri in 1571 and named the city as Fatehabad meaning victorious. This city served as the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1571 ..... Distance (From Agra Cantonment): 37 Kms Trip Duration (From Agra Cantonment - Including Travel): Half Day to Full Day .....

Jahangiri Mahal - Agra Fort

#6 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 4.5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 2.5 km from Taj Mahal, Jahangiri Mahal is the most noteworthy building inside the Agra Fort. Jahangiri Mahal is the first monument that comes in the view once visitors enter the fort from the Amar Singh Gate. Jahangiri Mahal was built by Akbar during 1565-69. This was the principal zenana, and was used mainly by the Rajput wives of Akbar. It is one of the earliest surviving buildings of Akbar's reign. Jahangir in his memories has clearly mentioned that the buildings were erected by his father Akbar. Mughal empress Nur Jahan used this as her residence. The palace is made of red sand stone and displays a generous blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles. Its outer walls rise with the massive ramparts of the fortress on the river. A gateway leads to an inner courtyard surrounded by large halls which are extensively adorned with Persian style stone carvings. .....

Khas Mahal - Agra Fort

#7 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 4.5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 2.5 km from Taj Mahal, Khas Mahal, also called Aramgah-i-Mualla (rest house of the noble) or Aramgah-i-Muqaddas, is situated inside the Agra Fort. Khas Mahal is the most beautiful building in the fort and was built by Shah Jahan during 1631-1640 AD. The building comprises open Terraces and a hall, flanked by a pavilion on either side serving as partitions. The structure is erected on a sufficiently elevated platform paved with marble. It is the royal palace of the Emperor. The palace includes curtain walls, elegant tanks, fountains and a waterfall surrounded by living apartments with courts and verandahs. The interiors of the palace are adorned with gold work, mural paintings, ornamental designs and floral designs. The pavilions of the Khas Mahal were constructed using red sandstone and coated with white shell plaster. They contained beautiful golden work and fresco .....

Diwan-i-Am - Agra Fort

#8 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 4.5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 2.5 km from Taj Mahal, the Diwan-i-Am or Hall of Audience is situated close to Machchhi Bhawan inside the Agra Fort. Diwan-i-Am was built by Shah Jahan during the years 1628-35 AD. It was the place where the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan (1628-1658) and his successors met general public and heard their complaints. The massive hall has a flat roof and is divided into three sections. Two arched red sandstone gateways on the north and south lead to the hall. The building, originally built in red sandstone, is plastered over with white shell paste resembling white marble. Its ceiling and columns were painted with gold. In the center of the eastern wall stands a marble canopy under which stood the emperor's throne. The emperor received the general public here and heard their complaints. This chamber was connected to the royal apartments and the royal ladies could watch the ceremonials of the Diwan-i-Am through the marble .....

Diwan-i-Khas - Agra Fort

#9 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 4.5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 2.5 km from Taj Mahal, the Diwan-i-Khas or Hall of Private Audience is situated backside of the Machchhi Bhawan inside the Agra Fort. Diwan-i-Khas or Hall of Private Audience was built by Shah Jahan in the year 1635 AD. It was used by the emperor for holding cultural events and meetings important guests such as kings, ambassadors and nobles in private and to deal with important affairs of the state. It consists of two large halls, an outer columned hall and inner closed hall, both connected by three archways. The outer hall is covered by a flat roof supported on multifoil arches springing from exquisitely fine marble pillars. The marble pillars are inlaid with semi-precious stones and coloured flower patterns. The hall is exquisitely decorated with carvings and flat wooden ceiling which used to be covered with gold and silver leaves to imitate the rays of the sun. The hall represents the royal accesses and thus .....

Moti Masjid / Pearl Mosque - Agra Fort

#10 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 4.5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 2.5 km from Taj Mahal, the Moti Masjid or the Pearl Mosque is situated to the north of Diwan-i-Am complex inside the Agra Fort. Moti Masjid was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan during 1648-54 AD. It was built as a place of worship for the royal members of the court. A mosque that shines like a pearl in a moonlit night, hence the name Pearl Mosque, Moti Masjid is one of the oldest mosques in the city. The glorious mosque took nearly four years to complete and is built in a style that is typical to Shah Jahan's era of reign. The masjid stands on the ground that slopes from east to west to the north of Diwan-i-Am complex. The structure contains three huge domes of high architecture value. These three Hindu style domed kiosks have been constructed using white marble and the rest of the exterior building made out of red sandstone. The mosque has twenty-one .....

Akbari Mahal - Agra Fort

#11 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 4.5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 2.5 km from Taj Mahal, Akbari Mahal or Akbar Palace is situated between Jahangiri Mahal and Bengali Burj inside the Agra Fort. Currently in partial ruined state, the Akbari Mahal is a testimony presenting the gigantic imperial courts that have the spacious chambers. Akbari Palace was once a huge palace complex which was used for residential purposes. Built between 1565-69, it had a large stone paved courtyard enclosed on all sides by suites and chambers. Only the river-side apartments have now survived. The Palace was designed and constructed in such a manner that whichever entrance the women used to enter the palace they were protected by purdah. The security and Purdah system was well designed in the palace. There was a great Assembly hall with a high ceiling on the lower storey, which can still be seen but the upper storey is completely in ruins. It also had a hall with triple opening on the riverside. Akbar's .....

Nagina Masjid - Agra Fort

#12 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 4.5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 2.5 km from Taj Mahal, Nagina Masjid is located beside the Diwan-i-Am inside the Agra Fort. It is also known as the Gem Mosque or Jewel Mosque. The Nagina Masjid was built during1631-40 by Shah Jahan for the ladies of the Royal family. This private mosque is constructed with pure white marble. The Masjid bears a very simple architecture and a descent decoration. This private mosque has special features of three majestic domes and wonderful arches. Nagina Masjid is enclosed by walls of three sides with a special a prayer chamber at the west. The mihrab pointing the direction of Holy Kabah is situated on the western wall of the prayer chamber. The prayer chamber is also made up of marble and has three domes on its top. The mosque has a three-arched facade with the cusps and supported on slender piers as its entrance. The arch in the middle is larger and has nine cusps and ones on the either sides have seven cusps .....

Macchi Bhawan - Agra Fort

#13 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 4.5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 2.5 km from Taj Mahal, the Macchi Bhawan or the Fish Mahal is located opposite to the Diwan-i-Khas in the Agra Fort. Macchi Bhawan is an official complex of double storied structure around a courtyard with arched galleries. Originally the court was adorned with marble tanks and fountains in which gold and silver fish were kept which provided amusement for Emperor. On the upper storey of the southern side, a small marble pavilion with a sun medallion on its ceiling projects outward. It is believed to be the place where the Golden Throne of the emperor was placed to allow him to have the entire view of the court below. The rooms of the lower floor served as the treasury. There was a raised white marble platform on the eastern side and a luxurious multi-chambered royal bath in the north. The southern pavilion served as a small reception room and has an open terrace with a white and a black marble throne. The black .....

Jama Masjid

#14 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 4.5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station, Jama Masjid is situated just opposite to the Agra Fort. It is also popularly known as the Jami Masjid or Friday Mosque and is one of the well known Agra tourist places . Jama Masjid was built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his favorite daughter Jahanara Begum's wish, at the cost of Rs 5 lakhs and took a period of 5 years in construction and was completed in 1649 AD. It is one of the largest mosques in India. The red sandstone structure was built in a typical Mughal style. It rests on a high plinth and is approached by staircase. It consists of a spacious elevated courtyard bordered by arched porticoes to the north and south, with a fountain at its centre. The eastern end was once also bordered by an arched portico and a grand entrance, but those were demolished by the British in 1857 while building the railway line to Agra. The prayer hall .....

#15 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 56 km from Agra, 159 km from Delhi, 419 km from Lucknow and 224 km from Jaipur, Mathura is an ancient city and also the district headquarters of Mathura in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Mathura is one of the popular tourist places near Agra and also one of the best places to visit near Delhi . Mathura is one of the seven cities (Sapta Puri) considered holy by Hindus, the other six are Ayodhya, Haridwar, Varanasi, Kanchipuram, Ujjain and Dwarka. Mathura has been chosen as one of the heritage cities for HRIDAY - Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana scheme of Government of India. Mathura is also one of the popular Delhi weekend getaways for 2 day trip. Mathura is located at the banks of river Yamuna and is popularly known as the Brajbhoomi, the sacred land of Lord Krishna. The Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi ..... Distance (From Agra): 56 Kms Trip Duration (From Agra - Including Travel): 1-2 Days .....

#16 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 13 km from Mathura, 70 km from Agra, 155 km from Delhi, 400 km from Lucknow and 235 km from Jaipur, Vrindavan is a holy town situated on the banks of Yamuna River in Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh. It is also among the sacred places to visit near Delhi for a 2 day weekend trip and also one of the popular places to visit near Agra . Vrindavan is a major pilgrimage center for the Hindus and one of the oldest cities in the country. The holy town of Vrindavan has a very rich history associated with the Hindu god Lord Krishna. It is said to be the place where Lord Krishna spent his childhood. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, a great devotee of Lord Krishna is credited with rediscovering of Vrindavan. The place was later developed by various kings of the region. The name Vrindavan is derived from the words vrinda ..... Distance (From Agra): 70 Kms Trip Duration (From Agra - Including Travel): 1-2 Days .....

Mariam-uz-Zamani Tomb

#17 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 11 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 1.5 km from Akbar's Tomb, The Tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani is the mausoleum of Jodha Bai, the Hindu consort of the Mughal Emperor Akbar, located on the left side of Agra-Mathura road, to the west of Akbar's tomb in Sikandra. The tomb was built by Jahangir in memory of his mother Mariam-uz-Zamani and was located near Akbar's Tomb as per the last wish expressed by her. The structure was originally a baradari under Sikander Lodi who built it in AD 1495. It was later modified into Mughals tomb by reconstructing the 4 facades of the building in Mughal style. The ground floor consists of around forty chambers built by Sikander Lodi, which bear faint traces of paintings on plastered walls. The centre of the ground floor houses the original cenotaph of Jodha. One can visit the crypt using red sandstone stairs. It was constructed with three tomb stones, the original one is in the ground floor, the middle and terrace stones .....

Chini Ka Rauza

#18 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 9 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 1 km from Itimad-ud-Daulah Tomb, Chini ka Rauza is a funerary monument located on the banks of the Yamuna River in Agra. Chini ka Rauza is the tomb of Afzal Khan who was a Persian poet during the reign of Jahangir. Later he became the wazir during Shah Jahan's reign. The tomb was built by him in 1635 AD. Khan died in Lahore in 1639 AD and was buried here at Agra. The name is derived from two Persian words Chini and Rauza that means glazed tiles tomb. Also known as Chinese Tomb, Chini-ka-Rauza is considered a milestone in Indo-Persian architecture, as it is the very first building in India that has been exclusively decorated by the glazed tile works. The decoration is prominent on facade and exteriors. Each side of this square tomb building is about 79 feet in length. The central chamber is octagonal in shape with eight arched recesses including four pentagonal arches and four square openings in all four directions. .....

Soami Bagh Temple / Radha Soami Samadhi

#19 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 9 km from Agra Cantonment railway Station, Soami Bagh Temple is situated in Dayalbagh in the outskirts of Agra. The Soami Bagh Samadhi is mainly the mausoleum of Huzur Swamiji Maharaj. The Soami Bagh is also called as Radha Swami Samadhi. He established the Radhaswami Faith. The Radha Soami Satsang Movement was started in 1861 as an effort to amalgamate all the world religions like Hinduism, Christianity, Sikhism and Buddhism and so this building reflects the styles seen in temples, mosques, gurudwaras and viharas. The building is 110 feet in height made of white marbles and features numerous pillars and fine pietradura inlay work on the inner walls. Construction began in February 1904 and has been continuously under construction for the past 100 years. Located adjacent to the mausoleum, there is Bhajan Ghar the place where, Soamiji Maharaj carried out the spiritual practices during his lifetime; the Bhajan Ghar also houses satsang once per day. Bhandara .....

Mehtab Bagh

#20 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 9.5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station, Mehtab Bagh is a charbagh complex situated north of the Taj Mahal complex and the Agra Fort on the other side of Yamuna River. The Mehtab Bagh garden was the last of eleven Mughal-built gardens along the Yamuna River; the first being Ram Bagh. The emperor Shah Jahan noted this crescent-shaped flood plain covered with grass around the Yamuna River and found it a great location to view the Taj Mahal from some distance. He then conceptualized it as a pleasure garden filled with moonlight and name it Mehtab Bagh during 1631 to 1635. Mehtab Bagh is a 25 acre garden, square in shape, measures about 300 x 300 m and is perfectly aligned with the Taj Mahal on the opposite bank. During the rainy season, the ground becomes partially flooded. The garden has fountains and pools along with several pavilions. Few of the gardens proportions were similar to that of the Taj Mahal. Mehtab Bagh came later in the possession of King of .....

Ram Bagh Garden

#21 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 9 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 3.5 km from Itimad-ud -Daulah, The Ram Bagh Garden is located near Chini ka Rauza in Agra. It is one of the famous places of sightseeing in Agra city. The Ram Bagh is the oldest Mughal Garden in India, originally built by the Mughal Emperor Babur in 1528. Babur was temporarily buried there before being shifted to Kabul. The original name of the bagh was Aram Bagh, which was changed to Ram Bagh under the Marathas, when they occupied Agra from 1775 to 1803 AD. The first historical mention of this garden as the Bagh-Nur-Afshan led some historians to believe that this name had been derived from a garden in Kabul. This garden was renovated by Jahangir between 1615 and 1619. The layout of this garden is based on the Persian style gardens. In the garden three levels have been maintained, one for flowers and vegetables, second for flower beds, with fine stone paved terraces and kiosk and the third one has structures, terraces .....

#22 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 6 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station, Taj Museum is one of the most popular museums in Agra and is located in the ground floor of western Naubat Khana, also known as Jal Mahal, with in the Taj Mahal complex. The museum was established in 1982. It is a double storied building having a quadrangle projection outside and is built on a raised platform. It is a big museum comprising of two floors and has three galleries along with a chief hall. The museum displays various exhibits relating mostly to the construction of the Taj Mahal and to the period of its builders. Totally 121 antiquities are on display, which are broadly categorized as Mughal miniature paintings, manuscripts, government decrees, specimen of calligraphy, arms, utensils, plans and drawings of Taj Complex, paintings, specimen inlay work, marble pillars, etc. In main hall the paintings of Shah Jahan and his favourite wife Mumtaz Mahal both on ivory, encased in ornamental wooden frame, replicas .....

Jaswant Singh Ki Chhatri

#23 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 9.5 km from Agra cantonment Railway Station and 4 km from Itimad-ud-Daulah, Jaswant Singh ki Chhatri is situated in Rajwara, Balkeshwar along the banks of river Yamuna in Agra. This is now maintained by Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Jaswant ki Chhatri is a domed pillared pavilion shaped cenotaph, which reflects Rajasthani architecture. It was built during 1644-58 AD and is said to be the only monument to have been built by a Hindu king in Agra during the Mughal era. The monument is dedicated to Rani Hada, who was the princess of Bundi in Rajasthan. She married Amar Singh Rathore, who was killed on 25th July, 1644 at Agra Fort. His body was given to widow Hada Rani who committed sati at the spot. Raja Jaswant Singh, younger brother of Amar Singh Rathore built this commemorative Chhatri. The Chhatri is a unique blend of Mughal & Hindu architecture. The surrounding wall is now in a dilapidated condition. However the monumental screen on the eastern side .....

Mankameshwar Temple

#24 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 1 km from Agra Fort, Sri Mankameshwar Temple is an ancient temple located at Rawatpara near the Jama Masjid in Agra. Mankameshwar Temple is one among the ancient temples devoted to Lord Shiva. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that the Shiva Linga inside the Mankameshwar Temple was created by lord Shiva himself when lord Krishna was born in Mathura . Lord Shiva appeared in Mankameshwar Temple from Mount Kailash in order to visit the child form of Lord Krishna. Lord Shiva thought of creating a Linga here if Lord Krishna played in his lap. However, by watching lord Shiv's unique form, Yashoda asked him to stay away from her child as he would get scared of him. Observing this, lord Krishna played a drama and begun crying by pointing towards lord Shiva, who was residing under a Banyan tree. By seeing this act, Yashoda called lord Shiva and requested him to bless .....

#25 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 72 km from Agra, Bateshwar is very ancient temple town situated on the bank of River Yamuna in Uttar Pradesh. Bateshwar is an important spiritual and cultural centre for Hindus and Jains. The name Bateshwar is derived from the main Bateshwarnath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to mythology, here under a Banyan tree (Bat in Sanskrit), lord Shiva took rest for some time, hence the place came to be known as Bateshwar (banyan lord). It is known for the 101 Shiva temples situated on the banks of Yamuna and Shaouripur. In the epic Mahabharata Bateshwar is supposed to be referred as Shouripur, a city of king Suresaine. These temples were built by King Badan Singh Bhadoriya who said to have changed the flow of Yamuna River from east to west towards Bateshwar. The king also built a dam to protect these temples from the heavy water coming from river Yamuna. Bateshwar Nath temple finds its mention in the holy scripts of Ramayana, Mahabharata and Matsya Purana. .....

Keoladeo National Park / Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Near Fatehpur Sikri

#26 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 27 km from Fatehpur Sikri Railway Station and 58 km from Agra, the Keoladeo National Park formerly known as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is situated in Bharatpur, Rajasthan. It is among the top places to visit from Delhi and Agra cities. Keoladeo National Park is located around a man-made wetland and was created in18th century by Maharaja Suraj Mal of Bharatpur. Formerly the private duck shooting reserve of the Maharajas of Bharatpur and the British Officials, this site was established as a bird sanctuary on 13th March 1976 under the name of Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. Later on 10th March 1982, the site was designated as a national park and was named Keoladeo Ghana National Park. In 1985, the Park was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the finest bird parks in the world, Keoladeo, the name derives from an ancient Hindu temple, devoted to Lord Shiva, which stands at the center of the park. Ghana means ..... Distance (From Agra): 58 Kms Trip Duration (From Agra - Including Travel): 4 Hours/Half Day .....

Most Asked Questions on Agra

Agra can be vistited through the year, however, winter from September to February is the best season to visit Agra . It is also the busiest season and hotels are usually very expensive in this season.

Agra usually requires around 2 days to visit the most important attractions. There are several wonderful destintions around Agra like Jaipur, Delhi, Fatepur Sikri, Mathura, Vrindavan which can be visited by adding few additional days to the trip.

Budget of Agra trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Agra tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 5000 per person for a 2D/1N trip and from INR 7000 per person for 3D/2N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in Agra like Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Baby Taj, Fatepur Sikri, etc. Bharatpur Sanctuary can be visited by adding an additional day to the trip

Early morning or evening is the best time to visit Taj Mahal to experience the true beauty of the historical monument.

Top 5 Agra Packages

Agra Related Pages

Similar Pages:

Places to Visit in Mysore | Places to Visit in Jaipur | Places to Visit in Hampi | Places to Visit in Thanjavur | Places to Visit in Bhubaneswar | Places to Visit in Chandigarh | Places to Visit in Hyderabad | Places to Visit in Mumbai | Places to Visit in Ahmedabad | Places to Visit in Gwalior | Places to Visit in Lucknow | Places to Visit in Bhopal | Places to Visit in Madurai

Near By Places

Similar Places

100% SECURE PAYMENTS

Domestic & international cards accepted.

Our WhatsApp Numbers

International tours, +91-8217845740, south india tours, +91-7995649483, goa, maharashtra, gujarat tours, +91-7032828835, north india tours, +91-9535139583, rest of india, +91-7799591230, request quote, travellers #.

Explore Tour Packages

Planning a Trip?

Discover affordable tour packages, need customized tour request quote, login / sign-up, your sign in was successful itinerary will be downloaded shortly., sign up with trawell.in.

Already Created Account? Login Here

Sign in with Trawell.in Account

Forgot Password?

New User? Sign Up Here

Activate Your Trawell.in Account

Your account is activated successfully. Login Here

Reset Your Trawell.in Password

Your password has been reset successfully. Login Here

Booking Policy

Top Things to Do in Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Places to visit in agra.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Bandra East
• Santacruz East
• Western Suburbs
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Taj Mahal

2. Agra Fort

3. Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah

4. Wildlife SOS

5. Agra Art Gallery

6. Sheesh Mahal

7. Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity

8. Anguri Bagh

9. Jama Masjid

10. Mehtab Bagh

11. Kalakriti Cultural & Convention Center

12. Shah Burj

13. Gurudwara Guru ka Tal

14. Ganeshi Lall Emporium

15. Mughal Heritage Walk

16. Jahangir Mahal

17. Jama Masjid

18. Marble Handicrafts Agra

19. Dayal Bagh Temple

20. Diwan-i-Am Agra Fort

21. Shri Mankameshwar Mandir

22. Sadar Bazaar

23. Subhash Emporium

24. Soami Bagh

25. Taj Museum

26. Taj Gallery

27. Tomb of Mariam Zamani

28. Play Safari

29. Ram Bagh

30. New Nice Marble Art & Handicrafts

What travellers are saying.

Tourist Places to Visit in Agra

The regal city of Agra is dotted with the wondrous remains of the Mughal period, inviting people to delve into India’s medieval past. Its claim to fame is the marvellous Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world, which attracts travellers from all around the globe. Due to the city’s inclusion in the Golden Triangle circuit owing to its proximity to Delhi and Jaipur, the places to visit in Agra observe a large influx of tourists all year round. Most people visit the city for the huge marble mausoleum but end up indulging in the evergreen ancient charm of the city highlighted by the many places to visit in Agra. It is undeniably a unique destination in the country where a huge chunk of Indian history is based. It is not surprising, therefore, that the annual number of visitors coming to the city is more than double of its own population! Excessive tourism, however, also contributes to the heightened activity in the city. It can get exasperating to avoid throngs of taxi or auto rickshaw drivers, street hawkers and unofficial tour guides competing for you to choose their services. But the Indian experience is characteristically defined by the order in its disorder, hence the places to visit in Agra manage to encapsulate such spirit rather well. Whether you love or hate it, it has become an unspoken rule for travellers to visit Agra at least once in their lives to check off the wondrous monument from their bucket list. Read on to find out which are the important places to visit in Agra.

The pre-eminent monument of India, the Taj Mahal is at the very top of all places to visit in Agra. It is a UNESCO world heritage site and among the seven wonders of the world. Renowned internationally as an eternal symbol of love, the mausoleum was constructed in the 17th century by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It is completely made of white marble and is arguably the most beautiful edifice in the word. At each entrance of the complex, you will find large gates made of red sandstone. Walking inside, you will see the beautifully maintained Mughal gardens ornate with watercourses. While strolling by the marvellous layout, it is inevitable for you to not be dazzled by the magnificent structure as you approach it. It is settled on an elevated platform, so when you look up at it, the white building stands out against a backdrop of a lovely blue sky. The Taj Mahal exhibits the classic characteristics of Mughal architecture with a dome and four minarets at each corner. The Yamuna River flows behind the building, granting a picturesque view from the complex. Right under the dome are the cenotaphs of Mumtaz Mahal as well as Shah Jahan. You are not allowed to click pictures inside the mausoleum. 

Next to the Taj Mahal is a red sandstone mosque that is one of the most important places to visit in Agra for Muslims. Every Friday prayers are held here and the monument is closed to tourists. This monument’s unimaginable beauty exceeds tourists’ wildest expectations and you must plan a trip to the Taj Mahal before all other places to visit in Agra and India. Many tourists prefer going to this tourist destination in Agra early in the morning to avoid crowds.

Another UNESCO world heritage site, the Agra Fort is one of the most important places to visit in Agra, owing not only to its incredible architecture but also its historical significance. Before the capital of the Mughal Empire moved to Delhi, this fort was the residence of the rulers. In fact, the Red Fort in Delhi was made by Shah Jahan almost replicating the Agra Fort. It sits on the banks of the Yamuna River and is at a distance of about two and a half kilometres from the wonderful Taj Mahal. The construction was started by Akbar, but the fort was enhanced from a military building into a palace by Shah Jahan. He was, sadly, imprisoned here by his son Aurangzeb within a part of the fort from where he could only see his grand creation for his beloved wife – the Taj Mahal. The complex is more like a fortified city, consisting of a number of buildings within it. Many of them have been destroyed over the years by different rulers, last taken over by the British for its troops. After India’s independence, the Indian army has occupied a large part of the fort, which is not open to tourists. Travellers can explore various other parts of the fort, such as Jahangir’s Palace, Khas Mahal, Anguri Bagh, Shish Mahal, Muthamman Burj, Jharokha Diwan-i-Khas, Diwan-i-Aam, Takhti-i-Jehangir and Nagina Masjid. Going to these places to visit in Agra within the fort can take up to three to four hours. These places can be visited as early as 30 minutes before sunrise and latest by 30 minutes before sunset.  

Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb

This is one of the places to visit in Agra that is essential for you to acquaint yourself with the evolution of architecture in the country. It is popularly called Baby Taj Mahal. Nur Jahan, Jahangir’s wife, got it made in memory of her father (who was also Mumtaz Mahal’s grandfather). Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb was the first in India to be constructed entirely out of marble and denoted a shift in Mughal architecture. Initially, the monuments constructed by them mostly utilized red sandstone whereas the use of white marble was limited to some designs. But in this new phase, white marble was used to create whole buildings. The mausoleum is the first monument in India to be set beside the Yamuna River and incorporate the pietra dura style of designing. It is believed that this tomb is one of the major inspirations for the Taj Mahal’s construction. You will notice a few similarities between this monument and other places to visit in Agra too.

Akbar’s Tomb

Built by Jahangir in honour of his father Akbar, this tomb is one of the most popular places to visit in Agra. It is made of red sandstone and white sandstone and is located in the Sikandra region. Its site was chosen by Akbar and early construction was supervised by him as well. He also designed the beautiful gardens that surround the monument. Most tombs of Islamic rulers would face the Mosque of Mecca, but Akbar’s tomb faces the east, where the sun rises. During Aurangzeb’s rule – Akbar’s great-grandson – offended Jats charged at the Agra Fort and raided Akbar’s tomb. It was later restored by the Viceroy of India to preserve this architectural marvel where lay the remains of one of the greatest rulers in the subcontinent. The restoration process was successful to a great extent, and this tomb continues to be one of the most popular places to visit in Agra.

Fatehpur Sikri

Fatehpur Sikri is among the significant places to visit near Agra. Its foundation was laid by Akbar and this fortified city served as his capital for years. It is a UNESCO world heritage site and home to many landmarks important in the list of places to visit in Agra. For example, a few of the places to see in Agra located in Fatehpur Sikri are Jodha’s palace, Jama Mosque, Buland Darwaza, and Salim Chisti’s tomb. Fatehpur Sikri shows a genuine union of varying cultural and religious beliefs as Akbar constructed individual palaces here for each of his wives who followed different religions. The walled city was constructed after his son was born in the village settled there. A paragon of Indo-Mughal architecture, this is one of the best places to visit in Agra where you can have a better understanding of India’s history. 

Buland Darwaza

Buland Darwaza is an impressive example of Mughal architecture, and was constructed by Akbar as a symbol of his victory over Gujarat. It is one of the most wonderful places to visit in Agra because it holds the record for being the highest gateway in the world! An entrance to Jama Masjid in Fatehpur Sikri, Buland Darwaza is also made of red sandstone and decorated with white and black marble. There are Persian inscriptions in the centre that narrate Akbar’s victory, tolerant nature and openness to different religions. 

Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid, also known as Friday Mosque, is one of the largest in India and among the stand-out places to visit in Agra. It was created by Shah Jahan, dedicated to his eldest daughter, Jahan Ara Begum. It is situated opposite Agra Fort; the two structures are separated by the Agra Fort Railway Station. True to the primary Mughal architectural style, this mosque is made of red sandstone, ornate with white marble. As you enter, you will see a fountain in the middle of the courtyard. Going inside, you will observe Persian inscriptions on the inner walls of the building in appreciation of Shah Jahan and his daughter Jahan Ara. The mosque is adorned with paintings, carvings, tiles and precious stones. For centuries, it has remained a landmark of the city and is one of the most iconic places to visit in Agra. Every Friday, prayers are held here that invite thousands of people. Within the premises, the Tomb of Salim Chisti is also present.

Jodha Bai ka Rauza

This is one of the many places to visit in Agra made by the Mughal Emperor Akbar. It is located in Fatehpur Sikri and was made by the king for his beloved Rajput wife Jodha. Their union was an important event, which led to Akbar being more tolerant of other faiths. His acceptance of different religions is tangibly manifested in this palace as it incorporates both Hindu and Islamic styles of architecture and decoration. Since this place was occupied by women, the architecture displays simple elegance and femininity. Although this is one of the few places to visit in Agra that is often skipped by tourists, if you are going to Fatehpur Sikri, you should make a stop to admire its distinct beauty.

Places to Visit in Agra: Markets

Sadar Bazaar

Situated near Agra Cantt. Railway Station, Sadar Bazaar is arguably the most visited of all the places to visit in Agra for shopping. There is hardly anything that you will not find here. Whether you are looking for traditional handcrafted items, ethnic clothes, bags, sweets or typical souvenirs, you will find them all here. You can stop by at one of the food joints in the vicinity when you wish to take a break from shopping. The momos and soya chaap here are pretty popular. Keep in mind that the market is closed every Tuesday. 

Subhash Bazaar

Subhash Bazaar is another one of the popular places to visit in Agra, and is located near Jama Masjid and Agra Fort. It is especially known for its silk sarees. Being a street market, it is imperative that you try to negotiate the prices so that you do not end up paying extra. This market is shut on Tuesdays. 

Kinari Bazaar

Another famous market from the places to visit in Agra is Kinari Bazaar. It is an old market near Jama Masjid. It is especially known for the wholesale goods you can find here. From handicrafts, traditional textiles to glass and marble products, there is a variety of items for you to buy at a bargain. This is also among the go-to places to visit in Agra if you want to shop for a wedding. You can easily find a good collection of sherwanis , lehengas , jewellery, dupattas , and turbans. Chimmanlal Puri Wale is one of the popular street food vendors in Agra who puts up his stall near the market, giving you another reason to stop here while you explore the places to visit in Agra. 

Raja ki Mandi

One of the busiest marketplaces to visit in Agra, Raja ki Mandi is famous for jewellery, accessories, clothes, decorative good, items used for worship, books and sweets among many other things. It is right next to Raja ki Mandi Railway Station. This is one of the oldest places to visit in Agra, as this market has been functioning since the Mughal era. You can find an assortment of items on sale here and is good for a visit if you are looking to shop in Agra. 

Places to Visit in Agra: Lesser Known Spots

Mehtab Bagh

Across the Yamuna River to the north of the Taj Mahal lies Mehtab Bagh. For a distant yet gripping view of places to visit in Agra such as the Taj Mahal and the Agra Fort, this is an ideal spot to spend your evening. It is the last remaining Mughal garden out of the 11 set on the banks of the Yamuna River. A perfectly symmetrical square garden, it has four towers made of red sandstone at each corner. There is also a huge tank smack in the middle. Not only is the garden a beautiful site to stroll around amidst a variety of trees, flowers and shrubs, it is also the best spot to enjoy a postcard-perfect view of the Taj Mahal. It is said that Shah Jahan renovated the degraded park to marvel at his architectural wonder just as millions of tourists do today. This is one of the most picturesque places to visit in Agra and is often frequented by photographers. During monsoon, the park sometimes gets flooded, hence it is advised to plan a visit to this tourist destination in Agra in winter.

Wildlife SOS Agra Bear Rescue Facility

Wildlife SOS has a commendable initiative to protect wildlife and preserve the environment in Agra. They are mainly known for protecting the sloth bears used as dancing bears by the tribal community of Korai Village, near Fatehpur Sikri. The rescues are cared for in artificially created natural habitats. The organisation also attempts to educate locals and provide them with alternatives for a sustainable way of earning a livelihood. Besides bears, Wildlife SOS focuses on helping leopards, elephants, tigers and other reptiles. You can add this to your itinerary along with the historical places to visit in Agra for a change. There are tours organised where you can learn about the recuperation process of the rescued animals. This is one of the places to visit in Agra where you can attend informative workshops. 

Situated within the premises of the Taj Mahal, this museum is home to all the information you could possibly want on the monument. It consists of original layout plans, samples of stones, royal orders, records, old photographs and drawings of the Taj Mahal. Even the planning of the graves and their records are kept here. Hence, this is one of the most interesting places to visit in Agra as it showcases the entire brainstorming process behind this grand monument. The major exhibits here are the ivory portraits of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal. As you walk around, you will observe a number of antiquities, weapons, manuscripts, calligraphy works, semi-precious stones and utensils.

Mother Teresa's Missionaries Of Charity

Mother Teresa was a Nobel Peace Prize laureate who started the Missionaries of Charity, a Roman Catholic religious congregation, in over a hundred countries. Its aim was the welfare of the underprivileged afflicted by HIV AIDS, tuberculosis or leprosy. One of those centres is in Agra and is among the few places to visit in Agra where you can spend a day in service of the society. As you enter this place, you will be greeted with warmth and smiles. This is unlike any of the other places to visit in Agra, but the time you spend with the people here will leave you with memories that’ll last for a lifetime. You can go on a tour, observe the kindness prevalent in the centre and learn about how the nuns extend a helping hand to the needy. If you wish to, you can make small donations here as well.

Written by Shruti Mishra, an in-house Tripoto writer. Frequent searches leading to this page:- best places to visit in agra, agra tourist places, places to see in agra, places to visit near agra, tourist destination in agra, agra tourist spots, agra sightseeing, places to visit near agra, attractions in agra, agra famous places

Must-see attractions in Agra

Poet Rabindranath Tagore described it as 'a teardrop on the cheek of eternity'; Rudyard Kipling as 'the embodiment of all things pure'; while its creator,…

With the Taj Mahal overshadowing it, one can easily forget that Agra has one of the finest Mughal forts in India. Walking through courtyard after…

Mehtab Bagh

This park, originally built by Emperor Babur as the last in a series of 11 parks on the Yamuna’s east bank (long before the Taj was conceived), fell into…

Itimad-ud-Daulah

Nicknamed the Baby Taj, the exquisite tomb of Mizra Ghiyas Beg should not be missed. This Persian nobleman was Mumtaz Mahal’s grandfather and Emperor…

Akbar’s Mausoleum

This outstanding sandstone and marble tomb commemorates the greatest of the Mughal emperors. The huge courtyard is entered through a stunning gateway…

Jehangir's Palace

This huge red-sandstone palace inside Agra Fort, a combination of Indian and Central Asian architectural styles, was most likely built by the Mughal ruler…

This beautiful marble pavillion and pool formed the living quarters of Shah Jahan, while the large attached courtyard housed the court harem.

Elephant Conservation Centre

Wildlife SOS runs this conservation centre, which offers rehabilitation and medical care to rescued elephants. You'll get to see the elephants while…

Kinari Bazaar

The narrow streets behind Jama Masjid are a crazy maze of overcrowded lanes bursting with colourful markets. There are a number of different bazaars here,…

Within the Taj complex, on the western side of the gardens, is the small but excellent Taj Museum, housing a number of original Mughal miniature paintings…

Samadhi Swamiji Maharaj Bagh

Known simply as Swami Bagh, this huge white marble mausoleum houses the tomb of Sri Shiv Dayal Singh Seth, the founder of the intriguing Radhasoami Faith…

Agra Bear Rescue Facility

A sanctuary for over 200 rescued 'dancing' sloth bears, located in a bird sanctuary 25km outside Agra on the road to Delhi. Visitors can tour the park…

Chini-ka-Rauza

This Persian-style riverside tomb of Afzal Khan, a poet who served as Shah Jahan’s chief minister, was built between 1628 and 1639. Rarely visited, it is…

Jama Masjid

This fine mosque, built in the Kinari Bazaar by Shah Jahan’s daughter in 1648 and once connected to Agra Fort, features striking zigzag marble patterning…

The jawab, to the east of the Taj Mahal itself, was built for symmetry purposes, matching up identically with the red-sandstone mosque to the west.

The Taj Mahal's red-sandstone mosque to the west of the main monument is an important gathering place for Agra's Muslims.

In Agra Fort, the Hall of Public Audiences was where emperor Shah Jahan listened to petitions from ordinary citizens.

Amar Singh Gate

The sole entry point to Agra Fort, and where you buy your entrance ticket.

More destinations you need to see

• Travel Blog
• Top Attractions
• Hill Stations
• Places to Visit in India
• Things To Do
• Weekend Getaways
• Historical Places
• Tours & Itineraries
• Festival & Events
• Food & Restaurants
• Delhi Travel Blog
• Jaipur Travel Blog
• Goa Travel Blog
• Mumbai Travel Blog
• Bangalore Travel Blog
• Chennai Travel Blog
• Pune Travel Blog
• Hyderabad Travel Blog
• Kolkata Travel Blog
• Indian Holidays Calendar 2024
• Long Weekends 2024
• Travel Tips & Hacks
• Top 10 in India
• India Tourism Guide
• Indian Railways (IRCTC)
• Indian Railways News
• Metro Rail Networks
• Web Check-in
• Hotels in Delhi
• Hotels in Mumbai
• Hotels in Gurgaon
• Hotels in Bangalore
• Hotels in Jaipur
• Hotels in Chennai
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Pune
• Hotels in Hyderabad
• Hotels in Kolkata

13 Best Places to visit in Agra: ✔ Entry Fee, Timings, Location

Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Destinations > Agra > 13 Best Places to visit in Agra: ✔ Entry Fee, Timings, Location

If you have always wanted to visit the Taj Nagri but the idea seemed too daunting, we have curated an Agra itinerary that will help you explore the most famous places to visit in Agra. With an area of 4,027 km² and an elevation of 170 m, Agra has established itself as the tourist hotspot. 

When planning to visit Agra, the most common mistake people make is to visit just the Taj. Yes, it is a major highlight of the city but there are plenty of other monuments that make for a perfect pitstop. Spend the majority of your time soaking in the beauty of Taj Mahal, however, there are other places around this monument that you can easily cover on your 2-day sojourn to Agra.

Dreaming about standing in front of the Taj already? Read on our Agra trip planner to give you a glimpse of once-in-a-lifetime brilliance.

Place to Visit in Agra:

Agra tour – day 1: , 1. taj mahal, agra.

Taj Mahal | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

Located on the southern bank of the Yamuna River, Taj Mahal rises like a dream from the hazy, and oftentimes chaotic city of Agra. Completed in the year 1653, the entire Taj complex is not only a testament to the beauty and genius of artisans of the bygone era, but is also known to carry a legacy with it.

The complex was a witness to 130 years of Mughal reign. If you want to step back in history and take a peek inside what that era looked like, go for a stroll inside the complex. From the magnificent Mughal architecture to cuisines sold outside the complex, everything has been inspired by the memorable era of the Mughals.

Needless to say, you should start your exploration of the city with the Taj Mahal. It is always recommended to visit this beautiful mausoleum early in the morning; the view of the sunrise is worth every effort. The complex opens even before the sun comes up, so you can start your tour at the earliest (to avoid the crowd later in the day). It is also one of the most beautiful places to visit in Agra at night.

• Entry Fee: ₹50 for Indians (valid for 3 hours, not valid for mausoleum entry), ₹200 (for mausoleum entry) and ₹1250 for foreigners
• Timing: 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes before sunset, Closed on Fridays
• Accommodation: You can easily find budget hotels in Agra close to the monument.
• Location: Forest Colony, Tajganj
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 6.2 km

YOU MAKE LIKE: Places to stay in Agra at best price

2. Mughal Gardens, Agra

After taking a tour of the minarets, tombs and the entire monument, you can sit at the Mughal Garden or just take a stroll along it. A reflection of the concept of ‘Paradise Garden’, the idea of Charbagh or a Mughal Garden around the Taj was inspired by the Persian gardens. It not only enhances the beauty of the entire complex but has a long avenue of trees laid out according to their scientific names. The fountain in the middle of the garden reflects Taj Mahal on full moon nights, making it an even surreal sight than it already is. Mughal Gardens is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Agra in evening.

• Entry Fee: ₹15 for Indians and ₹200 for foreigners
• Timing: 6 am to 6 pm everyday
• Location: Ram Bagh (Find hotels near Rambagh )
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 6.8 km

3. Taj Museum, Agra

Museum | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

By the time you soak in the beauty of Taj and spend some time, pondering over life, in the Mughal Gardens , it will be afternoon. Replenish yourself with some local delicacy and get ready for an insightful tour of the Taj Museum and Gallery. Mughal Gardens is also one of the best places to visit in Agra in one day. 

Located on the west side of the gardens, the Taj museum is the place where you can find the authentic Mughal miniature paintings including, the original ivory portraits of emperor Shah Jahan and his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Apart from these paintings, take a tour of the museum and you will find gold and silver coins dating back to the Mughal era. {Fun Fact: Do take a look at the nifty celadon plates. These were said to have split in pieces or even change colour if the food served in them was poisonous. Such a cool thing, right?}

• Entry Fee: Nil  
• Timing: 10 am – 5 pm, Closed on Fridays
• Location: Forest Colony, Tajganj 
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 6.1 km
• Accommodation: Hotels near Taj Museum  

4. I’timād-ud-Daulah or the ‘Baby Taj’ of Agra

Baby Taj | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

The reason why Tomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah is called Baby Taj is pretty self-evident. Yes, it looks like a miniature version of Taj Mahal, however, it has its own charm and elegance. Located on the eastern bank of Yamuna river, the tomb of Mirza Ghiyas Beg has a resplendent architecture and intricately carved jalis or window screens. It is one of the topmost places to visit in Agra near Taj Mahal. 

This was the first structure to be built entirely out of marble stones, with pietra dura, and make use of the famous pleasure gardens. Take a walk around the monument, after which you can leave for exploring the Mehtab Bagh. All these historical monuments also make for a great itinerary for places to visit in Agra in 1 day.

• Entry Fee: ₹10 for Indians, ₹110 for Foreigners & ₹25 for Camera
• Timing: 6 am – 6 pm
• Location: Moti Bagh
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 9 km

5. Mehtab Bagh, Agra

Mehtab Bagh | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

Conceived long before Taj Mahal came in the picture, the powerful emperor Babur built the Charbagh or famously called Mehtab Bagh. Located north of the Taj complex, this must-visit attraction in Agra is full of greenery and provides a perfect spot to view the Taj Mahal.

Also called as the ‘Moonlight Garden’, this is just the place to get a stunning view of the sunset and capture some insta-worthy shots. The scenic beauty makes it one of the best places to visit in Agra for couples. Visitors often come to Mehtab Bagh to find respite from the usual touristy crowd of the city. The garden gives them that solitude and much more.

• Entry Fee: ₹15 for Indians & ₹200 for Foreigners
• Accommodation: Hotels near Mehtab Bagh
• Location: Nagla Devjit 
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 10 km

Time for splurging on souvenirs

After spending the entire day exploring the top 10 places to visit in Agra, it is time for some shopping in the famous markets of Agra.

So, what is the USP of Agra’s bazaar? Handicrafts and art works! Agra may not be high on the list of fashionistas but it is surely a haven for people looking to add something unique and beautiful to their collection. Start your shopping haul from Sadar Bazaar, located right next to the Agra Cantonment railway station. Here, you can easily find leather goods, handicrafts and apparels as well.

Always, we repeat, always bargain when shopping in the markets of Agra. This bazaar is closed on Tuesdays so plan accordingly.

If you are looking for some silk sarees or anything related to silk, Subhash Bazaar is the place for you. It is located near Jama Masjid in the Hawai Gali.

Apart from these two famous places to visit in Agra, you should also stop at Raja ki Mandi and Kinari Bazaar for some exquisite handicrafts and textiles.

Tip: Find some restaurants that provide an exemplary view of the Taj because nothing beats the experience of dining with a view, especially if that view is of the Taj itself. Also, do buy some packed murabbas for your kin.

Agra Tour – Day 2: 

6. agra fort (red fort of agra).

Agra Fort | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

No Agra itinerary is complete without visiting the magnificently stunning Agra Fort . Touted as one of the finest Mughal forts in Agra, this one is often underrated by both tourists and tour guides.

Among the places to visit in Agra in 2 days, Agra Fort shares a close second spot next to the famous Taj Mahal. So, for your second day, we recommend taking in the red sandstone beauty of this fort along with exploring places close by. Start with the Agra Fort. Just keep walking through the long courtyards of this huge fort and you will realize what a magnanimous structure it indeed is.

The fort was the grand plan of Emperor Akbar, who wanted this to be the military base of the Mughal Empire. And the fort did serve its purposes. However, when Shah Jahan came in power, he modified the structure a bit by making some additions with his favorite material – white marble.

A palace and a fortress, this structure has hidden legacies, myths and many corridors that intrigue visitors. From Diwan-I-Am to Sheesh Mahal , you can spend an entire day just soaking up the beauty of this place; it won’t disappoint.

Read also – 5 days golden triangle Tours

The fort is just 2.5 km from Taj Mahal and some 5 km from the Agra Cantonment railway station. Make sure your Agra trip plan includes the Red Fort as well because you wouldn’t want to miss visiting a UNESCO World Heritage site now, would you?

Tip: The Jama Masjid of Agra is just opposite of Agra Fort . Do visit this mosque before you leave for Akbar’s Tomb, the next place on your list.

• Entry Fee: 6 am – 6 pm
• Timing: ₹20 for Indians, ₹300 for Foreigners
• Accommodation: Hotels near Agra Fort
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 5.6 km

7. Akbar’s Tomb, Agra

Akbar’s Tomb | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of just 15 km from Taj Mahal is the mighty Akbar’s tomb. Located in Sikandra, the suburbs of Agra, take some time to soak in the legacy of one of the most important Mughal Emperor – Akbar.

According to myths, Akbar himself commemorated the construction of the tomb because it was said to be an ongoing tradition where the rulers had to build their tombs in their lifetime. Complete with minarets and inscriptions on the walls, the entire structure is built in red sandstone and should definitely be a part of your trip.

• Timing: Sunrise to sunset
• Entry Fees: ₹15 for Indians, ₹210 for Foreigners
• Location: Sikandra
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 15.4 km

8. Fatehpur Sikri Fort complex

Fatehpur Sikri Fort | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

No trip to Agra is complete without a visit to the ancient walled city of Fatehpur Sikri . Located at a distance of around 40 km from Agra, it is famed as the political capital of Emperor Akbar and is one of the top places to visit in Agra. 

By visiting Fatehpur Sikri, one goes further back in time to take a look at the reign of Akbar. Just like Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri Fort is also listed among the World Heritage Sites by UNESCO .

Akbar first went to Sikri to meet a Sufi saint by the name of Shaikh Salim Chishti. He prophesied about the heir to the Mughal throne and after the prophecy came true, Akbar decided to move his capital to Sikri.

Just like Akbar’s secular beliefs and his idea to take in the positivity from different cultures and religions, the fort also displays the same ethos. A blend of Persian and Mughal architecture with some glimpses of Hindu, Christian and Jain culture as well, take your time to explore each structure inside the complex.

The establishment has a beautiful mosque along with three palaces, one for each of his wife. Some of the important structures you should not miss are Jodha Bai’s Palace , Panch Mahal and Hiran Minar .

• Timings: Sunrise to sunset, Closed on Fridays
• Entry Fees: ₹40 for Indians, ₹550 for Foreigners  
• Accommodation: Hotels near Fatehpur Sikri Fort complex
• Location: Buland Gate, Dadupura
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 36.5 km

On a concluding note, if you are planning to visit Agra, make sure you do it properly rather than a day’s trip from Delhi . Take your time to soak in the beauty, history and architecture of the world-renowned Taj Mahal. Do not miss out on the other underrated yet highly significant and glorious structures.

Check Other Places to Visit in Agra

9. jama masjid, agra.

Jama Masjid | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

This popular mosque was built by the daughter of Shah Jahan – Jahanara. It is one of the biggest mosques in India and is known for its splendid architecture. The red sandstone construction and intricate designs on the tomb will leave you amazed. It is indisputably one of the best

• Location: Subash Bazar, Kinari Bazar 
• Timing: 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM to 6:30 PM
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 5.1 km

10. Moti Masjid, Agra

Moti Masjid | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

Also known as the Pearl Mosque, Moti Masjid was built by Shah Jahan in 1648. It is one of the most visited tourist places in Agra . The mosque boasts beautiful designs and the finest architecture on white marble. The most amazing thing about the mosque is the way it stands on a slope with many side arcades and arched recessions.

• Location: State Highway 62 Agra Fort
• Timing: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Accommodation: Hotels near Moti Masjid
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 5.8 km

11. Sikandra Fort, Agra

Sikandra Fort | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

This magnificent fort is among the most famous places in Agra . It houses the tomb of Akbar and has eye-catching gates and designs made of red sandstone. The fort’s architecture is an impeccable blend of Hindu and Islamic designs. What’s more, the intricate stone carvings and excellent craftsmanship of the fort will leave you amazed.

• Location: Tomb of Akbar the Great, Sikandra
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 13.2 km

12. Dolphin Water Park, Agra

When visiting places in Agra , make sure you check out Dolphin Water Park. It is North India’s biggest water park and a favourite among tourists. It houses an amusement park, a water park, and a fast-food plaza that serves Indian and Chinese dishes. Dolphin Water Park is undeniably one of the best places to visit in Agra with family.

• Location: NH-2, Mathura Road, Runkuta
• Timing: 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM
• Adults (Above 4 feet): INR 550
• Children (Under 4 feet): INR 400
• Activities: You can enjoy different rides here, such as multilane water slides, wave pool, clusters, carousel caterpillar, merry go round, dolphin express – the kiddy’s train, and many more. 
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 27 km

13. Wildlife SOS Bear Sanctuary, Agra

This rescue and conservation organisation is among the most popular tourist attractions in Agra . It works to conserve wildlife, especially bears, elephants, leopards, reptiles and other animals. You must pre-book the personal two-hour guided experience that Wildlife SOS offers. This guided tour tells about the history of dancing bears, their conservation, and more.  

• Location: Inde, NH2, Murada
• Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 36.2 km

Frequently Asked Questions About Agra:

Q: What is the best time to visit Agra?

A: October to March is the ideal time to plan a visit to Agra as the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing.

Q: Which tourist places in Agra are UNESCO-listed?

A: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri near the city are the three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Agra.

Q: Is there an airport in Agra?

A: Yes, Agra Airport primarily serves as an airbase. However, it currently operates direct flights to and from Jaipur.

Q: Which railway station in Agra is closest to Taj Mahal?

A: Agra Cantt railway station is only 20 minutes away from Taj Mahal. Autos and cycles rickshaws are easily available from here to reach the site.

Q: What modes of transport are available to travel within Agra?

A: Autos and cycle rickshaws are readily available in all parts of the city. Tongas, electric buses and electric tempos are preferred by those travelling to Taj Mahal.

Q: How can I find a tour guide in Agra?

A: You can book official tour guides (recognised and approved by the Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India) online or over call from the Office of Approved Guide Association Agra. Self-guided audio tour facility is also provided by the ASI at Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. You can even download one of the smartphone apps to tour the monuments.

Q: Are there any popular events held in Agra?

A: The 10-day long Taj Mahotsav held in February-March every year is one of the best events in Agra. The festival attracts art and culture enthusiasts from world over.

Q: Where can I go from Agra for a weekend?

A: Mathura and Vrindavan are among the most popular weekend getaways from Agra. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is another preferable option.

[showhotelbycity hotelcity=’Agra’]

Wonderful post! Agra is a very beautiful city and it is also famous for the Taj Mahal. There are so many historical and architectural views in the city. Thanks for this great article.

Related Blogs

Latest Travel Blogs

GET FAB BLOGS IN YOUR INBOX!

Book a hotel.

• Social Share

Discover Hotels and Places Nearby

Top places to visit in india, hotels in india, hotels near airport, hotels near railway station, budget hotels, couple friendly hotels.

• Places to Visit in Agra
• Places to Visit in Ahmedabad
• Places to Visit in Amritsar
• Places to Visit in Bangalore
• Places to Visit in Bhopal
• Places to Visit in Chandigarh
• Places to Visit in Chennai
• Places to Visit in Coorg
• Places to Visit in Dehradun
• Places to Visit in Delhi
• Places to Visit in Dharamshala
• Places to Visit in Goa
• Places to Visit in Gurgaon
• Places to Visit in Guwahati
• Places to Visit in Haridwar
• Places to Visit in Indore
• Places to Visit in Jaipur
• Places to Visit in Kolkata
• Places to Visit in Lonavala
• Places to Visit in Lucknow
• Places to Visit in Mahabaleshwar
• Places to Visit in Manali
• Places to Visit in Mumbai
• Places to Visit in Mussoorie
• Places to Visit in Nainital
• Places to Visit in Nashik
• Places to Visit in Noida
• Places to Visit in Ooty
• Places to Visit in Rishikesh
• Places to Visit in Surat
• Places to Visit in Thiruvananthapuram
• Places to Visit in Udaipur
• Places to Visit in Varanasi
• Places to Visit in Pondicherry
• Places to Visit in Coimbatore
• Places to Visit in Kochi
• Places to Visit in Kodaikanal
• Places to Visit in Pune
• FabHotels: Hotel Booking App
• Hotels in Agra
• Hotels in Ahmedabad
• Hotels in Amritsar
• Hotels in Chandigarh
• Hotels in Coimbatore
• Hotels in Coorg
• Hotels in Dehradun
• Hotels in Dharamshala
• Hotels in Gangtok
• Hotels in Haridwar
• Hotels in Indore
• Hotels in Kochi
• Hotels in Kodaikanal
• Hotels in Lonavala
• Hotels in Lucknow
• Hotels in Mahabaleshwar
• Hotels in Manali
• Hotels in Mohali
• Hotels in Mussoorie
• Hotels in Nainital
• Hotels in New Delhi
• Hotels in Noida
• Hotels in Ooty
• Hotels in Pondicherry
• Hotels in Puri
• Hotels in Rishikesh
• Hotels in Thiruvananthapuram
• Hotels in Tirupati
• Hotels in Udaipur
• Hotels in Ujjain
• Hotels in Varanasi
• Hotels Near Ahmedabad Airport
• Hotels Near Amritsar Airport
• Hotels Near Bangalore Airport
• Hotels Near Bhopal Airport
• Hotels Near Bhubaneswar Airport
• Hotels Near Chandigarh Airport
• Hotels Near Chennai Airport
• Hotels Near Coimbatore Airport
• Hotels Near Goa Airport
• Hotels Near Gwalior Airport
• Hotels Near Hyderabad Airport
• Hotels Near Indore Airport
• Hotels Near Jaipur Airport
• Hotels Near Kolkata Airport
• Hotels Near Lucknow Airport
• Hotels Near Mumbai Airport
• Hotels Near Nagpur Airport
• Hotels Near New Delhi Airport
• Hotels Near Pune Airport
• Hotels Near Vadodara Airport
• Hotels Near Agra Railway Station
• Hotels Near Ahmedabad Railway Station
• Hotels Near Amritsar Railway Station
• Hotels Near Bangalore Railway Station
• Hotels Near Bhopal Railway Station
• Hotels Near Bhubaneswar Railway Station
• Hotels Near Chandigarh Railway Station
• Hotels Near Chennai Railway Station
• Hotels Near Coimbatore Railway Station
• Hotels Near Dehradun Railway Station
• Hotels Near Ernakulam Railway Station
• Hotels Near Ghaziabad Railway Station
• Hotels Near Gorakhpur Railway Station
• Hotels Near Guwahati Railway Station
• Hotels Near Gwalior Railway Station
• Hotels Near Haridwar Railway Station
• Hotels Near Indore Railway Station
• Hotels Near Kanpur Railway Station
• Hotels Near Kolkata Railway Station
• Hotels Near Lucknow Railway Station
• Hotels Near Ludhiana Railway Station
• Hotels Near Madurai Railway Station
• Hotels Near New Delhi Railway Station
• Hotels Near Pune Railway Station
• Hotels Near Ranchi Railway Station
• Hotels Near Surat Railway Station
• Hotels Near Tirupati Railway Station
• Hotels Near Udaipur Railway Station
• Hotels Near Ujjain Railway Station
• Hotels Near Vadodara Railway Station
• Hotels Near Varanasi Railway Station
• Hotels Near Vijayawada Railway Station
• Hotels Near Visakhapatnam Railway Station
• Budget hotels in Agra
• Budget hotels in Ahmedabad
• Budget hotels in Amritsar
• Budget hotels in Bangalore
• Budget hotels in Bhubaneswar
• Budget hotels in Chandigarh
• Budget hotels in Chennai
• Budget hotels in Coimbatore
• Budget hotels in Coorg
• Budget hotels in Dehradun
• Budget hotels in Ernakulam
• Budget hotels in Gangtok
• Budget hotels in Goa
• Budget hotels in Gurgaon
• Budget hotels in Haridwar
• Budget hotels in Hyderabad
• Budget hotels in Indore
• Budget hotels in Jaipur
• Budget hotels in Kodaikanal
• Budget hotels in Kolkata
• Budget hotels in Lonavala
• Budget hotels in Madurai
• Budget hotels in Mahabaleshwar
• Budget hotels in Manali
• Budget hotels in Mumbai
• Budget hotels in Mussoorie
• Budget hotels in Nashik
• Budget hotels in Ooty
• Budget hotels in Pondicherry
• Budget hotels in Pune
• Budget hotels in Rishikesh
• Budget hotels in Shirdi
• Budget hotels in Thiruvananthapuram
• Budget hotels in Tirupati
• Budget hotels in Udaipur
• Budget hotels in Varanasi
• Couple friendly hotels in Agra
• Couple friendly hotels in Ahmedabad
• Couple friendly hotels in Bangalore
• Couple friendly hotels in Bhopal
• Couple friendly hotels in Chandigarh
• Couple friendly hotels in Chennai
• Couple friendly hotels in Coimbatore
• Couple friendly hotels in Coorg
• Couple friendly hotels in Dehradun
• Couple friendly hotels in Dharamshala
• Couple friendly hotels in Goa
• Couple friendly hotels in Greater Noida
• Couple friendly hotels in Gurgaon
• Couple friendly hotels in Guwahati
• Couple friendly hotels in Hyderabad
• Couple friendly hotels in Indore
• Couple friendly hotels in Jaipur
• Couple friendly hotels in Kanpur
• Couple friendly hotels in Kochi
• Couple friendly hotels in Kolkata
• Couple friendly hotels in Lonavala
• Couple friendly hotels in Lucknow
• Couple friendly hotels in Mahabaleshwar
• Couple friendly hotels in Manali
• Couple friendly hotels in Mohali
• Couple friendly hotels in Mumbai
• Couple friendly hotels in Mussoorie
• Couple friendly hotels in Nashik
• Couple friendly hotels in New Delhi
• Couple friendly hotels in Noida
• Couple friendly hotels in Ooty
• Couple friendly hotels in Pondicherry
• Couple friendly hotels in Pune
• Couple friendly hotels in Rishikesh
• Couple friendly hotels in Siliguri
• Couple friendly hotels in Surat
• Couple friendly hotels in Udaipur
• Couple friendly hotels in Vadodara
• Couple friendly hotels in Varanasi

• Be our Franchisee
• Travel Agent
• Corporate Enquiries
• Quarantine Hotels
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cancellation Policy

• 2 Weeks for Couple
• 2 Weeks for Family
• Thailand Lantern Festival
• Indonesia(Bali)
• South Korea
• China (HK, Taiwan)
• Itinerary Ideas
• Asia Highlights Travel Reviews
• Thailand Travel Reviews
• Vietnam Travel Reviews
• Cambodia Travel Reviews
• Japan Travel Reviews
• Myanmar Travel Reviews
• China Travel Reviews

7 Places to Visit in Agra + 1-Day and 2-Day Trip Plans

Being home to the famous Taj Mahal and a stop on India's Golden Triangle of tourist cities, Agra is not missed off any classic India trip. No one should leave India without visiting this lovely city.

Once the capital of the Mughal Empire , beyond the iconic Taj Mahal, you can visit five more places to discover Agra's glorious history: Agra Fort, Mehtab Bagh, Itmad-Ud-Daulah's Tomb (the "Baby Taj"), Akbar's Tomb, and Fatehpur Sikri. Apart from the Mughal monuments, don't miss Wildlife SOS if you are an animal lover.

Among our suggested seven places, the first four places (The Taj, Agra Fort, Mehtab Bagh, Baby Taj) could be visited in one day. For a longer visit to Agra, Akbar's Tomb, Fatehpur Sikri, and Wildlife SOS are great excursions, which are just 1 hour's driving from the Taj Mahal.

• The Taj Mahal
• Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb
• Mehtab Bagh
• Akbar's Tomb
• Fatehpur Sikri
• Wildlife SOS
• Sample Itinerary for 1 Day in Agra
• Sample Itinerary for 2 Days in Agra

1. The Taj Mahal: a Majestic Monument to Love

The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays.

Undoubtedly, the Taj Mahal is the icon of Agra, even India. Its alluring reflection in the long pool is shown in most photo albums and travel brochures. As a symbol of love, it's the best place to visit for couples . You will see newly-weds taking wedding photos there.

With its fame, you might meet crowds there. So, an early morning visit is helpful to avoid the crowds and heat. The Taj usually opens 45 minutes before sunrise. When the Taj is lit up by the early morning light, you'll capture incredible pictures of the glow!

You might hear of popular moonlight tours before. As per most reviews, they're not as enjoyable or worth the money. Paying 1.5 times the daytime price, you just get 30 minutes to see the Taj from the gateway on a platform (quite a long distance from the Taj). Without the help of floodlights , you can't see it clearly. If you would like a night view (that is just as good), booking a hotel with Taj Mahal views or going to the Mehtab Bagh is much better value. Read more details about how to explore the Taj Mahal from different perspectives .

See more travel guides about Visiting the Taj Mahal >>> and seek the best places for night views of the Taj >>>

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

2. Agra Fort: Home to Mughal Emperors

Your Agra itinerary is not complete without the marvelous Agra Fort. Once the palace of royal families of the Mughal Empire, Agra Fort is the epitome of Mughal buildings. Mighty fortifications, ornate decorations, and a glorious history make Agra Fort impressive.

Like the Red Fort in Delhi , Agra Fort (also called the Red Fort of Agra) shares some similarities in architecture. Both are red sandstone walled cities with gardens, palaces, audience halls, etc. inside. But Agra Fort is more recommended as it is larger, better preserved, and more accessible. It is "wheelchair friendly".

You can see the Taj Mahal at a distance from a pavilion in Agra Fort. When the emperor Shah Jahan was imprisoned in Agra Fort for his final 8 years, gazing at the Taj Mahal was his only way to relieve his loneliness and depression until his death.

Recommended Private India Tours to explore Taj Mahal and its love story:

• 7-Day Golden Triangle India Tour
• 10-Day India Highlights and North-West Frontier Tour

3. Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb (Baby Taj): Inspiration for the Taj Mahal

If the Taj Mahal shows the love of a husband, Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb is the proof of a daughter's love of her father .

Although Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb was built earlier than the Taj Mahal , it is always called the Baby Taj Mahal due to its smaller size. As a model for the Taj Mahal , it was the first marble monument in India.

Despite the similarities, Itmad's Tomb has more details in its hand-carved marble covering exterior walls.

Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb is a perfect oasis to immerse yourself in artwork and exquisite decorations without The Taj's crowds . Step back into Mughal history, walk around the gardens, and enjoy the river views behind the tomb.

Different from other attractions, local guides are not available on the spot . If you want to get a deep insight into the Tomb, book a guide before ( we can help you book one of the best English-speaking guides in Agra ).

4. Mehtab Bagh: Sunset and Moonlight Views of The Taj Mahal

The Mehtab Bagh, or Moonlight Garden, is a beautifully-landscaped garden located alongside the Yamuna River opposite the Taj Mahal.

Perfectly aligned with the gardens of the Taj Mahal, it is the perfect place to snap sunset pictures of the Taj . Away from the crowds, you can enjoy the Taj (from a distance) in relative peace.

It is said that Emperor Shah Jahan intended to build himself "the Black Taj" there to mirror the Taj Mahal, his wife's mausoleum, so that he could still look upon his wife's monument across the river after death. However, he failed to do this as he was placed under house arrest by his son.

5. Fatehpur Sikri: the Abandoned Capital of the Mughal Empire

Fatehpur Sikri is closed on Fridays.

For a history buff , Fatehpur Sikri is a must-see in Agra. You can visit it on your way to Jaipur as it is located on the Jaipur–Agra highway.

As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the red sandstone ruins are still viewed by many as the finest showpiece of Mughal architecture .

The highest gateway in Asia (about 15 floors high) stands majestically under the clear sky and welcomes you in. The domes , winding corridors , and intricate carvings put you in a time tunnel. The diverse styles of buildings tell you of the love of Akbar the Great, the third Mughal emperor, for his three wives of different religions (Islam, Hinduism, and Christianity).

Fatehpur Sikri was abandoned 14 years after being built due to a shortage of water . Then it was a ghost city for hundreds of years. It witnessed the Mughal Empire's rise and fall.

Explore Fatehpur Sikri during your 14-Day Classic Rajasthan Tour: Explore the Land of King s>>>

6. Akbar's Tomb: The Resting Place of the Greatest Mughal Emperor

Akbar (r. 1556–1605) was one of the most famous Mughal emperors and innovative builders . Designed by himself, his tomb presents his ideas of cultural fusion. You can find Arabic, Persian, and Hindu features in his tomb.

Different from other monuments built in red sandstone only, he used a deep red sandstone mixed with marble . Unlike other Mughal tombs, Akbar's Tomb faces towards the east instead of west, towards Mecca .

You're suggested to enter from the south gate , the largest one. Walk through the garden, meet the lovely monkeys, peacocks, and deer, and then enter the tomb. Despite the passing of the centuries, the impressive geometrical patterns and floral designs are still shining on walls inside.

7. Wildlife SOS: Close Contact with Sanctuary Animals

If you are an animal lover, don't miss Wildlife SOS. It houses two wildlife projects : the Agra Bear Rescue Facility and the Elephant Conservation and Care Center. The elephant sanctuary is just 15 minutes' drive from t he bear sanctuary .

You'll get to know the stories behind every rescue, and see how staff take care of the animals. Visiting the sanctuary is a way to support the work and can be life-transforming. The volunteer project was suspended due to COVID-19. Check its availability with us if you'd like to experience it.

To protect the animals from being disturbed, every visit has to be assessed and approved beforehand .

What to Visit with 1 Day in Agra

A full day in Agra is enough to explore the main city highlights, including the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Most travelers arrive in the early afternoon from Delhi or Jaipur. So, they will go to Mehtab Bagh and admire the mesmerizing sunset view of the Taj Mahal on the arrival day .

Next day, you are recommended to visit the Taj Mahal early in the morning (at around 5 a.m.) to avoid crowds and heat. Then, return to your hotel for breakfast. Then, continue by exploring Agra Fort and Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb.

• In the evening, you might like to enjoy the night show Mohabbat the Taj at the Kalakriti Culture and Convention Center.
• A guided tour (usually US$ 100 - 200 per person per day) is recommended for a deep insight into the monuments and worry-free ticketing and navigation. Your guide will not only share history and stories, but also help to enrich your contact with local culture.

What to Visit in Agra with 2 Days

Based on our experiences, Agra is most popular as a stop between Delhi and Jaipur . To make use of another day in Agra, you could go on the following popular itinerary for 2 full days in Agra.

Day 1: Departing from Delhi by road, you could stop at Akbar's Tomb or Wildlife SOS on the way to Agra, then take in the sunset views from Mehtab Bagh on arrival.

Day 2: Do the classic day tour of the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb.

Day 3: Have a half-day visit of Fatehpur Sikri , then head to Jaipur.

Find out the transport guide about Delhi to Agra . For more planning guides of India tours, you can see How to Plan a Trip to India >>>

Visit India with Asia Highlights

Asia Highlights welcomes the chance to help you design your perfect trip to India. Check out the following links to learn more about our tours and get a head start on planning your hassle-free vacation today!

Recommended Private India Tours:

• 15-Day India and Sri Lanka Tour
• 12-Day India and Bhutan Tour
• 11-Day India and Nepal Tour
• 14-Day India, Nepal, and Bhutan Tour

Why Asia Highlights (10,000+ reviews & 98.8% 5-star rating)

• Save Your Time:
• Less research, more enjoyment!
• Real-time 1V1 expert planning
• Maximize Your Flexibility:
• Personal local guide and ride
• Explore at your own pace
• Celebrate Your Journeys:
• Specially-crafted family adventures
• Celebrate milestones with style!

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.

More Travel Ideas and Inspiration

Sign up to our newsletter.

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

Why Asia Highlights

Where can we take you today.

• Middle East
• African Safari
• Travel Agents
• Loyalty Program
• Our Differences
• Privacy Policy

Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China

Sorry, we couldn't find anything that matches your search.

Destination

Famous Places to Explore in Hyderabad

A vibrant city with the imposing...

Raipur Tourist Places | Best Place to Visit

The stronghold of several erstwhile...

Declared as India's first UNESCO World...

Ananthagiri

The verdant Ananthagiri Hills is...

Located on the banks of River Godavari,...

Situated around 40 km from Raipur,...

Boasting the famous Chand Baori...

Albert Hall Museum

A magnificent building built in...

2023. The year of India’s G20...

City of the Taj Mahal

• Destinations

Explore Agra city and its best places to visit

The city of the Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world, Agra in Uttar Pradesh is India's most popular tourist destination. Steeped in history, this ancient city is dotted with monuments, architectural wonders and beautifully landscaped gardens, which are remnants of the Mughal reign's majestic legacy.  The city also enjoys a vibrant culinary scene while preserving its exquisite arts and crafts.

Situated on the banks of River Yamuna, the city, once the capital of the mighty Mughals, stands proudly today with a royal heritage that beckons to one and all. While visitors admire the grand structures here and weave through bustling chowks and bazaars, they can also check into luxurious hotels, shop at malls and plazas, and indulge in contemporary delicacies at upscale restaurants. 

Agra finds a mention in the epic Mahabharata, where it is referred to as ‘Agraban’ or an integral part of the Braj Bhumi or the land of Lord Krishna. A lot of significant historical events in the city are said to have unfolded during the reign of Raja Badal Singh, a Sikarwar Rajput king, who is believed to have founded the city in 1475. However, it gained political prominence during the rule of Sikander Lodhi (1498-1517) of the Lodhi dynasty. It was given a new lease of life in 1526 AD, under the reign of Mughal emperor Babur. He was a patron of arts and wanted the inhabitants of the city to adopt the finer things in life. This resulted in the city being filled with skilled craftsmen, artists, statesmen, warriors and nobility. Thus began Agra’s golden age.

Babur’s legacy was carried forward by his progeny, emperors Akbar, Jahangir and Shah Jahan, all of whom added to the city’s grandeur in terms of wealth, patronage and incredible architectural marvels. Agra transformed into a hub of art, culture, learning and commerce. The city’s lip-smacking food, awe-inspiring monuments, and arts and crafts stand as relics of this illustrious antiquity. Its rich repertoire of arts and crafts has seeped into its modern personality too: Agra is a haven for crafts like marble and soft stone inlay work. It is said that Mughal empress, Nur Jahan, personally looked into the development of arts and handicrafts here. It is said that she was an expert in zari embroidery herself. 

Attractions in Agra

The legacy of agra through its historic attractions.

Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, the creator of the Taj Mahal, said that the beauty of the monument made “the sun and the moon shed tears from their eyes”. It has also been described as a “teardrop on the cheek of eternity” by Nobel laureate Rabindranath...

Built by Mughal emperor Akbar in 1565 AD, Agra Fort is a majestic...

Fatehpur Sikri

Mughal emperor Akbar built his capital at Fatehpur Sikri between 1572...

Itimad-ud-Daulah's tomb

This beautiful marble tomb is dedicated to Mirza Ghias Beg, the...

Mariyam's Tomb

This unique red sandstone tomb was built in the memory of Mughal...

Immersive Experience

The best experiences from Agra tailored for you

The essence of the profound history of Agra has been captured in the...

Arts and Crafts

The city of Agra is known for its rich traditional handicrafts and...

Food and Cuisine

Agra is a foodie's delight and its Mughal heritage has left a deep...

Also Explore

Explore more in the city of taj.

Unmissable activities in Agra

Agra beyond Taj Mahal

One day Agra Itinerary

Unmissable spots for nature and wildlife lovers

Explore in depth Agra

• Experiences

Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, the creator of the Taj Mahal, said that...

Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary

Located near Agra in Etawah, along the banks of River Chambal, the...

The mausoleum of Mughal emperor Akbar, Sikandra is a red sandstone...

Soor Sarovar (Keetham Lake) Bird Sanctuary

Situated on the Delhi-Agra highway, Keetham Lake is about 20 km by...

A Mughal garden believed to have been designed by emperor Babur and...

The city of palaces and forts, interspersed with historical monuments...

With old monuments and busy neighbourhoods subtly merging with a...

Divided by the picturesque and pristine Upper Lake and Lower Lake,...

With spiritual and historic roots that go deep, Kanpur located on the...

Mathura-Vrindavan

Poised on the banks of the holy River Yamuna, the old city of...

How to get there

Agra’s Kheria Airport is a seasonal airport which is mostly only connected to New Delhi. Flights do not always ply on this route. Other ways to reach Agra include flying into New Delhi which is about 210 km away from Agra. The other cities one can fly into include Gwalior, Jaipur, and Lucknow.

Agra is connected via regular bus services to New Delhi (about 210 km away), Jaipur (about 238 km away), Gwalior (about 120 km away), Lucknow (about 336 km away), and Kanpur (about 276 km away). These could be operated by private companies, the UPSRTC or other state road transport corporations.

Agra is connected via regular railway services to many big cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Allahabad, and Jaipur. The train stations here include Agra Fort, Agra Cantt., Agra City, Raja ki Mandi, Idgah, and Yamuna Bridge.

We use cookies to ensure that you have the best experience on our website. Continued use of the website would be assumed to be an acceptance of these conditions.

Sign up to our newsletter to receive exciting content about the tourism destinations in India.

Thank you for subscribing! Explore India with us.

Exploring the world, one place at a time.

A complete agra travel guide: all you need to know before visiting in 2023.

• Post published: January 15, 2022
• Post category: India
• Post author: Charu Goyal

Agra is one of the most visited cities in India for a reason. Home to the iconic Taj Mahal , a magnificent wonder of the world, it is a former capital of India that welcomes millions of tourists every year, eager to visit the country’s most famous monument. Though there is plenty more to experience for those willing to stick around for more than a day.

Boasting a plethora of Mughal tombs and gardens, the historically rich city of Agra is an integral part of India’s Golden Triangle. With three UNESCO World Heritage Sites and dozens of lesser known landmarks under its belt, there is plenty to captivate visiting photographers, travellers and historians to this part of Uttar Pradesh.

So, if you are planning to visit Agra and are wondering what else is there to see beyond the Taj Mahal, then worry not. I spent four days there in October 2021, and am happy to share up-to-date information to help you plan your dream Agra trip. In this guide, you’ll find everything from where to stay to what to see in Agra and much more.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using any of those links, I may get a small commission. Thank you for your continued support!

Table of Contents

Where is Agra?

Located on the banks of Yamuna river, Agra is a city in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is approximately 210 km south of India’s capital city, New Delhi, and 240 km east of Jaipur in Rajasthan. If grouped together, these three cities make North India’s Golden triangle, the most popular tourist route in the country. 

If you only have a limited number of days to explore this region, then doing the Golden triangle circuit is a great way to get an insight into the world of maharajas and Mughal emperors. Travelling through these three neighbouring states, you will see some of India’s most beautiful architecture, and taste delectable cuisines. 

But should you have more time on hand, the heritage arc of Uttar Pradesh, including Agra, Lucknow, and Varanasi is also worth checking out. Lucknow is situated at a distance of around 335 km from Agra and has been on my bucket list since so long!

How to get to Agra?

Being one of the top bucket list destinations in India, Agra is well-connected to other Indian cities by an extensive rail and road network. There is also a domestic airport in Agra, but it is usually more convenient to fly to New Delhi or Jaipur due to more frequent flight options.

From those cities, you can take a taxi to Agra or hop on a train. Agra has several train stations, out of which Agra Cantonment (Agra Cantt) and Agra Fort are closer to the city centre. The Gatimaan Express from Hazrat Nizamuddin railway station in New Delhi only takes 1 hour and 40 minutes to reach Agra Cantonment. You can find more information about trains to Agra here .

Alternatively, you can also take your own car or book a private taxi and reach Agra at your convenience. The roads connecting Agra with both New Delhi and Jaipur are in good condition and the drive is pretty smooth and easy. Depending on how early you leave and the route taken, you can get from Jaipur to Agra in approximately four to six hours.

My friend and I booked a taxi from Savaari car rentals for this trip. They are an online cab aggregator in India that provides affordable chauffeur driven taxis in various cities across the country. Their expertise regarding road trips in India is really valuable, especially when going to off-beat places. I used their service to go from Kolkata to Odisha as well and loved that their quoted price includes tolls, state tax and GST so there are no surprises in the end. Check prices for their Jaipur to Agra cab here.

Although trains to Agra take less time to reach, it may make sense for you economically to book a taxi when travelling in a group. But if on a tighter budget, there are also frequent buses that go to Agra daily. You can check the timing and prices for buses to Agra on redBus .

CG’s tip: Almost all train and bus stations have taxi stands nearby. You can hail a ride to your accommodation from there or book a taxi online.

Best time to go?

Although the Taj Mahal looks marvelous throughout the year, the best time to visit Agra is during the winter months from October to February . Summer in North India is uncomfortably hot, followed by months of downpours that make it difficult to freely roam around and explore as desired.

Also keep in mind that during the winter season, the weather changes fast and can affect visibility to only a few meters at dawn. If you want clearer mornings and dreamy sunrises, then head to Agra either between October to mid-November or mid-February to early March. But, if you are looking to create moody pictures, then peak wintertime would be good as well.

I visited in the last week of October and had beautiful sunrises and sunsets throughout. There was a little fog by the Yamuna river during one sunrise towards the end of my trip, but it cleared quickly as I took hundreds of pictures of one of the seven wonders of the world sitting in front of me.

CG’s tip: Regardless of which month you plan to travel to Agra, just note that the Taj Mahal remains closed to the general public every Friday for religious reasons. However, all the other landmarks can still be accessed. 

How many days are enough?

Most travellers visiting Agra mainly come to see the Taj Mahal on a day trip from New Delhi. But, in my opinion, that is equivalent to barely scratching the surface. Not only does the Taj Mahal have a distinctive charm at different times of the day, there are also several viewpoints nearby that shouldn’t be missed to admire it from other perspectives.

Being a historically significant city during the Mughal era, there are also SO many other landmarks worth checking out in Agra that a few hours in the city can never be enough. If you are planning to see most of these sights, then spending 2-3 full days is highly recommended.

However, if you only have time for a day trip, then I recommend doing a guided tour from New Delhi to make the most of your time in Agra. This private one leaving at 2:30 am allows you to still catch the sunrise at Taj Mahal, followed by a delicious breakfast and a visit to Agra Fort. Alternatively, this one leaves a bit later and covers Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Baby Taj and a buffet lunch in Agra.

How to get around Agra?

I usually love walking and getting around a new city by foot, but if I am being completely honest, then Agra isn’t ideal for that. The roads are chaotic and if you are not staying super close to the Taj Mahal, then using a transport to go from one place to another is more feasible.

Depending on your budget, there are auto-rickshaws (tuk-tuks), taxis, and public transport available throughout Agra. Online cab aggregators like Uber and Ola work seamlessly too and cost almost the same as hailing an auto-rickshaw from the street for one-way rides. You can also hire the latter for approximately INR 800 for a day of exploring. Just remember to haggle if getting a rickshaw from the street.

CG’s tip: Between both the cab companies, I found Ola to be working more efficiently in Agra. I went out for sunrise every morning and Ola cabs would come in a couple of minutes even at 4 am. Uber sometimes took longer.

Where to stay in Agra?

From affordable guesthouses and hostels, to some of the most luxurious hotels in all of India, Agra has no dearth of places to stay. Irrespective of what your preferences, budget, and purpose of the trip may be, you can undoubtedly find an appropriate property to base yourself in, without a hassle.

I stayed at the ITC Mughal for the first three nights of the trip and then moved to The Oberoi Amarvilas for the last one to celebrate my birthday. ITC Mughal is for you if you are looking for a reasonably-priced luxury property that is on the top of their game when it comes to safety protocols for the pandemic. Their sanitization protocols impressed me exceedingly throughout the stay!

But, if you are in Agra for a special occasion, or just want to experience the best, then look no further than The Oberoi Amarvilas. Situated only 600 metres from the Taj Mahal, all rooms there provide an unobstructed view of the Taj (!) while the interiors pay homage to Mughal architectural elements. Pair this with delectable food, outstanding amenities and extremely warm staff and you will know why the property is so highly rated and loved. You can check hotel prices and availability in Agra here.

For those of you interested in low and mid-range accommodations, there are many options in Taj Ganj, Rakabganj and Fatehabad Road areas. Taj Ganj is super close to the Taj Mahal, but this neighbourhood can feel a bit unpleasant and congested. On the flip side, places like Hotel Kamal and Hotel Saniya Palace located there come with rooftop restaurants overlooking the Taj that make it better. 

Alternatively, Hostels like Moustache are always a popular and safe choice among backpackers.

Best places to see in Agra?

Agra has a wealth of incredible places to offer. From the world-famous Taj Mahal, to lesser known spots like Akbar’s Tomb at Sikandra, there are plenty of incredible monuments to entice both domestic and international travellers. Here are some sites that you should unquestionably add to your Agra itinerary:

Where do I even begin with this one? Built to immortalise the undying affection of a man for his wife, the Taj Mahal is an iconic symbol of love and India’s most recognisable monument. It was built in 1630 by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his third (and favourite) wife, Mumtaz Mahal who died giving birth to their 14 th child. 

Containing tombs of both Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan himself, Taj Mahal is an architectural masterpiece and a World Heritage Site. If you could only visit one place in India, then by all means, don’t even think twice before heading here. The monument’s perfect symmetry is so compelling that you have to see it in person to understand why it is often regarded as the most beautiful building in the world. 

Apart from the white marble mausoleum, the Taj Mahal complex also houses Taj Museum, Charbagh , a mosque, a reflective pool and a guesthouse. Most travellers visiting Taj Mahal stop at the reflecting pool at the front, trying to jolt each other for the iconic shot with the mausoleum. While it is a really picturesque spot, I would advise you to head to the mosque on the west and spend more time there instead. You’ll be surprised to see how less crowded it is!

Re ad More: Best Taj Mahal Viewpoints in Agra

There are three gates that visitors can usually use to enter the premises when visiting, but at present, the South gate is not functional . Between the other two, the West gate is the busiest as most tourists and tour guides tend to avoid the East gate due to the longer walking distance between the vehicle drop-off point and the main entrance. However, in my opinion, it is the best one to use as it is the least crowded.

CG’s tip: Sunrise is the most beautiful time to visit the Taj Mahal. The crowds are relatively smaller and you will get to admire the monument as it ethereally reveals itself through the morning mist. Try to reach 30 minutes before opening hour to ensure you are at the front of the queue in time for opening. If visiting on a day trip from Delhi, you can accordingly book a sunrise tour for the same.

Opening hours: 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes before sunset, every day except Friday. Taj Mahal is closed every Friday for religious reasons. There are also night viewings two days prior to the night of and the two days after the Full Moon, except during the month of Ramadan and on a Friday. Entrance fee: INR 45 for Indians and INR 1050 for Foreigners. Entrance to the mausoleum is an additional INR 200 for both.

Restored by Mughal Emperor Akbar, Agra Fort is the city’s second most impressive landmark and another World Heritage Site. It was primarily constructed as a military fortress in 1565, but was later transformed into a palace by Shah Jahan, who embellished it with white marble and precious stones during his reign. 

When visiting Agra Fort, make sure to take a moment to appreciate its impressive red sandstone wall that is nearly 22 m high in several parts. The interiors are equally stunning as well and there are also a few vantage points that provide an unobstructed view of the Taj. When Shah Jahan was overthrown and imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb, he spent eight years here gazing out at the river and admiring the Taj Mahal from a distance until his death.

Some of the places to not miss in Agra Fort are Jahangiri Mahal (Jahangir’s Palace), Khas Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of private audience), Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of public audience), Sheesh Mahal (Mirror palace), Musamman Burj, Moti Masjid (Pearl mosque) and Nagina Masjid (Gem mosque). The area is enormous and you’ll need a few hours to see it all. There is also a light and sound show here every evening.

CG’s tip: Agra Fort can get really crowded on Fridays due to Taj Mahal being closed. If you are in Agra for more days, then plan to visit here the same day as the Taj. Alternatively, you can go early morning and enjoy it while it is still quiet. Just avoid going near closing time as the guards tend to rush people out from beforehand.

Opening hours: Sunrise to sunset, every day. Entrance fee: INR 35 for Indians and INR 550 for Foreigners. Plus, a separate ticket for ADA Toll Tax upon arrival, which is INR 10 for Indians and INR 50 for foreigners.

Mehtab Bagh

Located directly across the Yamuna river from the Taj Mahal, Mehtab Bagh is a Mughal botanical garden that has one of the best viewpoints in Agra. If you are looking to get epic sunrise and sunset photos of the Taj Mahal without the crowd, then make sure to not skip this spot. The garden is perfectly aligned with the Taj and there are several photo points facing the monument.

Mehtab Bagh is also known as The Moonlight Garden and there is even a popular myth associated with this place. Legend says that Shah Jahan wanted to make an exact copy of the Taj Mahal for his own burial here, only with black marble instead of white. But the construction of Black Taj never took place as he was imprisoned by his son, who buried him next to Mumtaz Mahal inside the Taj Mahal itself. Whether this is true or just a myth remains unverified.

CG’s tip: Although Mehtab Bagh is just opposite the Taj Mahal on the other side of Yamuna river, getting there takes time. The garden is approximately 8 km from the Taj Mahal and you will need to hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi to get there. Nevertheless, the picture-perfect view of the Taj Mahal is worth it, especially at sunrise or sunset. 

Opening hours: Sunrise to sunset, every day. Entrance fee: INR 20 for Indians and INR 250 for Foreigners. No ADA Toll Tax is charged here.

Tomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah

Often known as the Baby Taj or the Bachcha Taj, the tomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah is another Mughal mausoleum in Agra. It was built by Empress Nur Jahan for her father Mirzā Ghiyās Beg, who was known by his title I’timād-ud-Daulah, meaning pillar of the state. Completed in 1628, this mausoleum was one of the first Mughal structures to have ever been built entirely in white marble.

This tomb is situated in the centre of a Charbagh, with four usual enclosing walls and side buildings made of red sandstone. Out of these, the pavilion on the western side beautifully overlooks the Yamuna river. But what sets I’timād-ud-Daulah’s tomb apart from other monuments is the beautiful floral patterns depicted by stone inlays and mosaic work. It even served as an inspiration for the Taj Mahal, which was built for Mirzā Ghiyās Beg’s granddaughter Mumtaz.

CG’s tip: Being a lesser known monument in Agra, the tomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah doesn’t see that many visitors throughout the day. I would suggest you to visit popular places in the morning and then visit here afterwards. Since it is located near Mehtab Bagh, you can easily club the two together too.

Opening hours: Sunrise to sunset, every day. Entrance fee: INR 20 for Indians and INR 250 for Foreigners. Plus, ADA Toll Tax of INR 5 for Indians and INR 10 for Foreigners upon arrival.

Chini ka Rauza

Situated just 1 km north of I’timād-ud-Daulah’s tomb, Chini ka Rauza is another funerary monument in Agra. It contains the tomb of Shukrullah Shirazi Afzal Khan ‘Allami’, a Persian scholar and poet, who later became the Prime Minister of Emperor Shah Jahan. It also has a large garden and nice riverside views.

If you like exploring lesser known places and are in the area anyway, then definitely make a pit stop here. The exterior of this monument is covered in glazed tile work, which is one of the reasons to admire it. The interiors, on the other hand, feature paintwork and inscriptions from the Quran, both of which seems to be depleting to an extent.

However, seeing the dome from inside is still pretty impressive. Just don’t head here with high expectations as the structure isn’t maintained like other popular places in Agra. Some of the tile work on the outside is either falling off or has lost its colour due to the weather. Hopefully it can be restored to its former glory someday!

Opening hours: Sunrise to sunset, every day. Entrance fee: Free.

Tomb of Akbar

Akbar’s tomb is another beautiful example of impressive Mughal architecture. It is a hidden gem that is the final resting place of Mughal Emperor Akbar. It is located in the town of Sikandra, about 40 minutes outside of the main city. Emperor Akbar planned and constructed most of the monument himself while he was still alive. But, it was completed by his son Jahangir, after his death.

The mausoleum itself is five stories tall and is made with red sandstone and white marble. It is surrounded by vast gardens, housing deer, monkeys, peacocks and other wildlife. If you love architecture and photography, then make sure to not give this picturesque sight a miss. The chhatri-topped minarets, painted interiors and detailed inlay work are really remarkable to see up close.

CG’s tip: Sikandra is en-route to Fatehpur Sikri from Agra. If you are planning to visit there, then you can make a stop at Akbar’s tomb on the way to save time. The tomb of Mariam Zamani, Akbar’s wife, is also situated close by in Sikandra itself. 

Tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani

Not too far from Akbar’s tomb lies another Mughal mausoleum in Sikandra. This is the final resting place of Emperor Akbar’s favourite wife, Mariam-uz-Zamani. It was built by their son Jahangir and is about a 5 minute driving distance from the tomb of Akbar. If you are travelling to Sikandra to see Akbar’s tomb, then you can make a stop here as well.

Mariam’s tomb was formerly an open baradari (pleasure pavilion) built by Sikander Lodhi in 1495 AD. The Mughals acquired it in the 17 th century and reconstructed the exterior walls by introducing red sandstone to the edifice. Similar to other Mughal sites in Agra, this mausoleum is also surrounded by lush gardens. However, there isn’t much else to see at the site.

Opening hours: Sunrise to sunset, every day. Entrance fee: INR 10 for Indians and INR 250 for Foreigners. ADA Toll Tax is not levied here.

Note: All the above-mentioned entrance fees are as per the online ticketing charges. The prices will be slightly higher if you purchase them via cash, when or if the ticket counters open up (more on this below). You can book online tickets to any of these on the official website here .

Taj Nature Walk

Located a few metres away from the East Gate entrance of Taj Mahal, it is a peaceful park providing walking trails and beautiful viewpoints. If you are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of Agra, then take a stroll through this 70 hectare green belt and enjoy glimpses of Taj Mahal every now and then.

Taj Nature Walk is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Including an array of birds, you can expect to come across peacocks, peahens, hyena, and more here. Some people also like to go here for a picnic, but in general, it is not a busy attraction. For the best experience, visit here in the morning or evening hours when the weather is pleasant.

CG’s tip: The entrance to Taj Nature Walk is on the Taj East Gate Road. You may be asked for an ID when visiting, so make sure to carry one with you. Taking a reusable water bottle is also recommended as there is no place to buy it once there.

Opening hours: Sunrise to sunset, every day. Entrance fee: INR 20 for Indians and INR 100 for Foreigners.

If you are in Agra for longer, then there are also some other landmarks that you can check out. Taj Mahal itself has plenty of viewpoints, especially for those willing to walk around the nearby areas in pursuit of different perspectives. My personal favourite is the chhatri situated close to Dussehra Ghat, and from the boat ride on Yamuna river. 

Agra also enjoys local markets which are an experience in themselves. If you don’t mind the constant honks, large crowds, haggling, etc., then visit the narrow lanes of Kinari Bazaar near the Taj Mahal. The enormous Jama Masjid is also located there. Sadar Bazaar is another famous market in Agra.

Day trips from Agra?

Even though there is a lot to see in Agra itself, there are also remarkable destinations outside it that you can explore when there. The roads are in good condition and you can easily do a day trip to see other gems of Uttar Pradesh. Here are some places that I would recommend checking out:

Fatehpur Sikri

Situated less than 40 km from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is a 16 th century city that was built predominantly in red sandstone by Emperor Akbar. It was founded as the capital of the Mughal Empire and later abandoned after just 15 years due to multiple reasons. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a must visit for every architecture lover.

Combining Hindu and Muslim elements, Fatehpur Sikri is one of the finest examples of Mughal architectural splendour. The city is surrounded by a large fortification wall and there are several entryways to access the premises. Known as the Gate of Magnificence, the Bhuland Darwaza at Fatehpur Sikri is the highest gateway in the world at a height of 54 metres.

Other must-see attractions at Fatehpur Sikri include The Jama Masjid, which is one of the most beautiful mosques in India. The Palace of Jodha Bai, Panch Mahal, Anup Talao, Diwan-I-Khaas, Diwan-I-Aam, and the Treasury are wonderful too. Just try to visit early in the day so you have enough time to go around and see everything at a relaxed pace. You will easily need a couple of hours here.

CG’s tip: Fatehpur Sikri is divided into two parts: the mosque, and the palace complex. Most taxi drivers will try to drop you close to Bhuland Darwaza, which is the entrance to the Jama Masjid. But, I suggest visiting the palace area first.

Bhuland Darwaza is surrounded by many hawkers, beggars and young children that roam around freely pretending to be guides harassing tourists in the name of charity. Just head to Diwan-I-Aam or Jodha Bai entry gates and visit there later to have a quick visit of the mosque. 

Opening hours: Sunrise to sunset, every day. Entrance fee: INR 35 for Indians and INR 550 for Foreigners. An additional ADA Toll Tax of INR 10 for Indians and INR 50 for Foreigners is also charged upon arrival. The Jama Masjid complex at Fatehpur Sikri can be visited free of cost.

Located about 25 km from Fatehpur Sikri lies Bharatpur. It is an Indian city in the state of Rajasthan that has an array of beautiful palaces, forts and temples to offer. I would typically suggest to stay here overnight to be able to explore it properly, but if you are short on time, then it can be a great addition to your Fatehpur Sikri day trip from Agra too. There are many tours that cover both places.

The most popular site to not miss in Bharatpur is the Keoladeo National Park, formerly known as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. It is a World Heritage Site where you can spot over 350 species of birds, especially during the winter season. The landscape is really beautiful and you can choose between covering the trails on foot, bikes or a cycle rickshaw. Boating is also available there.

CG’s tip: Bharatpur and Fatehpur Sikri both fall on the way on the Jaipur-Agra route. If you are travelling between Jaipur and Agra by road, then you can visit either of them or both, depending on how much time you have. For Keoladeo National Park, I would recommend having a few hours in hand.

Opening hours: Keoladeo National Park is open from 6:30 am to 5:00 pm in Winter and 6:00 am to 6:00 pm in Summer.  Entrance fee: INR 75 for Indians and INR 500 for Foreigners. Prices for vehicle hire at the Keoladeo National park are separate.

For those interested in spirituality and Hindu culture, the city of Mathura is another option for a day trip from Agra. It is located approximately 57 km from Agra and is popular for being the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Offering landmarks like sacred temples and serene ghats, Mathura is unlike most other cities in India.

Known as the holiest place in the city, the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple is one of the must visit sites in Mathura. There are large celebrations here during the festivals of Holi and Janmashtami. Other notable landmarks in Mathura are Vishram Ghat, Kusum Sarovar, Kans Qila, Jama Masjid, Krishna Balaram Mandir, Goverdhan Hill and more.

Your trip to Mathura can also be combined with a visit to its twin city of Vrindavan. The town of Deeg is also an easy drive from both Mathura and Bharatpur.

Located around 15 km from Mathura, Vrindavan is another holy city situated on the banks of the Yamuna river. It is a Hindu pilgrimage site that is known for being the city where Lord Krishna spent a considerable amount of his childhood. There are numerous temples dedicated to Lord Krishna in Vrindavan.

Shri Banke Bihari Mandir is one of the most popular temples to visit in Vrindavan. It is also the main centre of celebration of the Holi festival in Vrindavan, where events take place for a whole week. The shrine at Banke Bihari Mandir is one of the most admired in all of India.

Other places to see in Vrindavan include Prem Mandir, Govind Devji Temple, ISKCON Vrindavan, Radha Raman Temple, Nidhi Van, Keshi Ghat, and more. You can drive to Vrindavan yourself, use public transport or book a private guided tour. This one from Agra takes you to both Mathura and Vrindavan.

Where to eat in Agra?

Indian food is one of my all-time favourites, so I love travelling within India and tasting local delicacies of different regions. Here are some places that I would recommend for good vegetarian food in Agra:

Bellevue: Bellevue is an all-day dining restaurant at The Oberoi Amarvilas, serving Indian and International cuisines. It has both indoor and outdoor seating, where the latter overlooks the hotel’s beautiful, lush gardens and the pool area. From hand rolled pastas to chaat boxes containing mouth-watering street food, you can expect to find great quality no matter what you order. Their Thai Stir Fried Tofu and Vegetable Krapow were my personal favourite!

Esphahan: Esphahan is a speciality tandoor dining restaurant serving Mughal cuisine at The Oberoi Amarvilas. You can order Thalis or multiple course set menus here and enjoy a delicious dinner while listening to live music. My friend and I went with the traditional Indian Thali option and loved everything. The Dal Esphahani and Pistachio Kulfi were a delight!

Peshawri: Peshawri is another North Indian fine dining restaurant in Agra. It is located inside the ITC Mughal and serves dishes that are cooked in traditional clay pots or tandoors. Some of the dishes were not available during our visit as the restaurant had just re-opened that night itself, but we had Dal Bukhara, Kebabs and lots of butter Naan. Their bread was so good that I could eat just that on its own!

Sheroes Hangout: Sheroes Hangout in Agra is a café with a cause. It is a colourful place that is run by acid attack survivors who welcome customers with utmost love and big smiles. Their mission is to raise awareness about these attacks and empower other victims to continue living life in public. The menu at Sheroes Hangout doesn’t have any prices and customers are requested to pay what they deem right. Please remember to pay fair and support them in whatever way possible.

Other than these, we mostly ate our weight in breakfast buffets and decent looking all-day dining places close to where we were. If you happen to be in the Taj Ganj area, then you can also check out rooftop restaurants like Hotel Saniya Palace that are known for their view of the Taj Mahal. The food is mostly simple, but worth a visit for the viewpoint.

What to buy in Agra?

Agra is known for many things, out of which Petha is the most popular. It is an Indian soft candy made from white pumpkin. Most sweet shops in Agra sell Petha and there are often numerous flavours available. If you like sweets, then make sure to try this local delicacy or bring back some for your loved ones. You can get Petha near the Taj Mahal, at bus and train stations, and in local markets and speciality stores. 

Another souvenir that you can buy from Agra are marble replicas. From a Taj Mahal miniature to products like trays, vases, or boxes, you can find many items inlaid with semi-precious stones in ornate floral designs that are commonly found in Mughal architecture throughout Agra. There are many stores on Fatehabad Road that sell these.

Other products that Agra is known for are leather goods, silk sarees and textiles, rugs and carpets, handicrafts, and more. Have a stroll around Kinari Bazaar or Sadar Bazaar and you’ll probably find something interesting for yourself. Just note that Kinari Bazaar is closed every Tuesday. 

What to pack for Agra?

• A camera! Taj Mahal is one of the most photogenic sites in the world, so you would be crazy to travel to Agra and not capture it. Whether you are comfortable using a smartphone or a professional DSLR or mirrorless camera, make sure to take one with you and snap some pictures. I recently upgraded to a Sony mirrorless !
•  A wide angle lens . The monuments in Agra are designed in such a way that you’ll sometimes wish you had a wider lens to shoot the entire setting. Landmarks like Akbar’s Tomb are enormous in size, and if you want the iconic arch shot of the Taj Mahal then definitely carry this with you.
• A zoom lens may also be useful if you are looking to get some detailed shots while in Agra. It would particularly come handy in places like Mehtaab Bagh where Taj Mahal would be a little further.
• A hard drive because all those photos need to be stored somewhere now, don’t they? This may not apply to everyone, but I like to take a backup of my files every day and thus carry a hard drive on all my trips. Not only does it help to empty SD cards, but I honestly sleep better knowing my photos are safely backed up. This is the one I use.
• Weather appropriate clothing. The temperatures in Agra vary vastly between the different seasons, so make sure to bring suitable clothing for your trip. However, for women, I suggest leaving tanks behind and bringing light maxis or similar if travelling in summer. Agra is still a conservative city.
• If you are a female, then carrying a scarf to cover your bare shoulders when visiting masjids, temples and other religious sites is also a must. I personally take one or a light jacket with me on most trips around India as they can also be useful in crowded areas to avoid unnecessary attention.
• A travel plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, and M. If your devices are bought from outside India, then make sure to check this to have a seamless experience at your accommodation or check with your hotel for a spare. This one works in most places around the world.
• A portable charger. Since you are going to be out and about all the time and using your phone for photos, directions, restaurant reviews, you may run out of battery quickly. A portable charge ensures you always have a working device with you!
• Last but not the least, make sure to carry hand sanitizers and face masks . You can never have too much of these while travelling during these uncertain times.

Some things to know before visiting Agra

• Entrance tickets for all the monuments in and nearby Agra must now be purchased online. There used to be functioning ticket counters at all the touristic sites before the pandemic, but that isn’t the case anymore.
• You can now either buy your tickets for Agra monuments here before visiting or scan one of the QR codes displayed on the entrances and get an electronic ticket on the spot. However, sometimes the portal does not work efficiently due to poor connectivity so it is better to purchase from before with hotel WIFI.
• Should the ticket booths open again soon, remember that in person tickets are more expensive. If you purchase tickets to monuments in Agra online (either before visiting or paying by card on arrival), then automatic discounts are applied to the final price. The deductions are not huge, but do make a difference when visiting many places.
• On top of the entrance fee, the Agra Development Authority (ADA) also imposes a charge commonly known as ADA’s Pathkar or Toll Tax. It will already be included in the price of your Taj Mahal ticket, but you will be asked to pay it on top of your tickets at other landmarks. 
• All foreign citizens visiting other monuments in Agra on the same day as the Taj Mahal do not have to pay the ADA Toll Tax again (make sure to show your ticket for the same if asked). However, you will not be exempted from it the next day. The ADA doesn’t levy any Toll Tax on Fridays so you can visit then to save money.
• Some landmarks in Agra have a huge list of prohibited items that are strictly not allowed inside the premises. Before visiting any of these locations, make sure to check the list from beforehand to avoid wasting time in cloak rooms and security checks. For instance, visitors cannot carry any food, tobacco products, tripods, portable charges, pens, etc. inside the Taj Mahal.
• Know the best time to visit popular places. Being regarded as the most beautiful building in the world, it is safe to say that the Taj Mahal gets REALLY crowded even at sunrise. I, fortunately, got lucky as India was still closed to international tourists at the time of my visit, but try going as early as possible.
• Trust that the fog is real. If you are planning to visit Agra during the winter season in India, then expect that you may not be able to see the Taj Mahal clearly early in the morning. The visibility can get so low that you can stand just beneath it and still not be able to get a detailed glance!
• You may come across articles online that claim there is nothing else to see in Agra apart from the majestic Taj Mahal. But in reality, this couldn’t be further away from the truth. Give the city more than a few hours and explore some other incredible structures from the Mughal era to see what else it has to offer.
• There is also a lot of talk about Agra being a dirty and smelly place. Since this was only my first time properly seeing the city, I cannot argue if that is always incorrect, but I personally didn’t think the same was true from what I saw and experienced. Maybe it is due to the ongoing pandemic, or less number of daily visitors at the moment, but all the sights and areas I saw were clean.

Final Thoughts

That’s a wrap on a comprehensive Agra travel guide from me! I hope you found information in this blog post helpful in planning your trip to Agra, the home of the Taj Mahal. 

I tried to include everything I could think of, but if there is anything else I can help you out with, then please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. You can also DM me on Instagram or send an email. I love hearing from you and helping you plan your trips!

Happy Exploring, Charu xx

Want to keep reading? You may like “ Best Instagrammable Places in Jaipur ” and “ 11 Best Instagram Spots in Bikaner ” too.

LIKE THIS POST? PIN IT FOR LATER ⤸

This Post Has 20 Comments

Charu, I love how beautiful your pictures are and how detailed the guides. I started following you on Instagram after coming across your Agra posts and have been waiting for this guide. Thank you for covering every topic that was needed so thoroughly!

Thank you so much for joining me here and on Instagram, Suman. I am glad that you came across my pictures from Agra, thanks for all your kind words 💖

Agra is incredible. I’m so glad I went before COVID. I hope to return one day. Thanks so much for the info. Your pictures are beautiful.

Thank you, Sharon. And yes, so good that you could visit India before the borders shut down. I hope that we can reopen properly soon and people can start returning!

I am blown away by your photos of these historic buildings.

The architecture in India is incredible, thank you Terri.

Beautiful photographs! I love the way the sun appears to set the marble on fire, Although when we visited at sunrise I looked half asleep. The nearby forts are equally magnificent. A really comprehensive post – so useful and visually appealing.

Me too! We were there for quite a few hours, so it was interesting to see how the marble changed colours under different lighting conditions. Our guide also made us observe some precious stones that illuminated due to the sun’s position, which was fascinating to say the least. Thank you for your kind words, Hels!

Your photos are so beautiful! Agra looks amazing to explore, thank you for this great detailed guide!

It really is, Lyne! Have you thought about visiting someday?

Your pictures are incredible!!! Lovely post, thanks for sharing all the details with us 🙂

Thank you for reading, Karla! I am glad you liked it 🙂

Your photos are absolutely stunning! And that architecture!! Thanks so much for sharing such an incredible destination!

Thank you, Kathryn! Agra is truly special.

Beautiful pictures! I visited the Taj Mahal a few years ago but I didn’t get a chance to go there at sunrise. I’d love to go back again some day!

You must. Although the Taj Mahal is beautiful at any time of the day, seeing it at sunrise is truly incomparable. I hope you get to experience that one day!

Wow loved the pictures..so amazing .i remember Visitng long back during childhood..need to visit again

Thank you, Madhu. And yes, you must!

I don’t even know where to start on saving all this info in my planner lol So helpful! Thank you 🙂

Just a side question, but your amazing dresses… do you wearing them out all day when traveling or change at the location before/after? Also, where do you buy your dress, they look so beautiful and flowy.

Hi Channy, I am so pleased to hear that you found this post helpful. I usually wear the dresses all day, but sometimes also change at the location or before/after if it involves a hike. Typically, I take most of my photos in the morning or during sunset so I may also change into something more comfortable for just roaming around the city when not shooting. Most of my outfits from this article are linked in my ‘Outfits’ Instagram Highlight but feel free to DM me for any links if you need.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Please enter an answer in digits: 7 + seventeen =

Sign me up for the newsletter!

Agra   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Peter Zelei Images | Getty Images

5 Best Things To Do in Agra

Updated February 11, 2021

The Taj Mahal will no doubt be No. 1 on your list, and it should be the very first thing you do in Agra (i.e. go early in the morning). Crowds here can quickly reach legendary levels (the attraction sees thousands of visitors per day), so be

• All Things To Do

Taj Mahal Taj Mahal

Plain and simple: This is the reason you come to Agra. The Taj Mahal is a majestic tomb built in the Mughal style, which combines Indian, Islamic and Persian architectural principles. Visitors marvel at the intricate Quran inscriptions, the structure's perfect symmetry, the ornate accents, and the surrounding manicured gardens. But this monument's enchantment goes beyond its arresting visual appeal: The story behind its creation has drawn romantics for centuries.

According to legend, Emperor Shah Jahan (part of the Mughal dynasty, which ruled the majority of northern India between the 16th and 18th centuries) fell deeply in love with Arjumand Banu Begum, who became his favorite of his three wives. They shared such an intense passion for each another that he renamed her "Mumtaz Mahal," or "Chosen One of the Palace." After many years of happy marriage, Mumtaz passed away during the birth of her 14th child. To commemorate their undying love for one another, the Shah built the Taj Mahal as an elaborate tomb. The tomb is made up entirely of white marble and features jade, crystal, lapis, turquoise and amethyst stones inlaid throughout. Over 20,000 workers labored over the site for more than 20 years.

Agra Fort Agra Fort

Just northwest of the Taj Mahal , this formidable fortress rests on the west bank of the Yamuna River on the edge of central Agra. About a century older than its more recognized neighbor, Agra Fort boasts impressive red sandstone architectural details throughout and is considered to be one of the best Mughal forts in India. Several rulers made their mark on this site while they lived behind its towering walls, including Shah Jahan, the same emperor who is responsible for the construction of the Taj Mahal. You can credit Jahan with the white marble features you'll find within the fort. It was he who was also responsible for eventually converting the structure into a palace. (Jahan's grandfather, Emperor Akbar originally built it as a fort some hundred years earlier). Travelers could easily spend hours touring and admiring the fort's many offerings, including mosques, verdant courtyards and towers, one of which acted as a prison for Jahan until his death. Today, the site still holds onto its defense roots, as some areas of the fort are used by the Indian military, and as such closed to the public. 

Recent visitors were impressed by the fort and suggested travelers visit here before heading to the Taj Mahal to learn about how the imperial family lived. Many called the fort an architectural must-see with great historical significance and said it even offers great views of the Taj Mahal, too. Travelers did point out that there isn't a whole lot of shade when walking around the attraction, so don't visit in the middle of the day when the sun is beating down on the fort. Visitors also recommended using a guide during your stay to better understand the vast history behind the fort (guides can be arranged on-site). 

Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb

Located on the east bank of the Yamuna River (just a few miles from central Agra), Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb boasts a pretty picturesque setting. This tomb is the first mausoleum in India to be constructed entirely of marble. You'll recognize that the same stone was used for the Taj Mahal ; in fact, this monument often goes by the nicknames, "Mini Taj" or "Baby Taj." But just because it's smaller in size doesn't mean you should neglect it.

This monument houses a former royal representative. Not only did Itmad-ud-Daulah serve under Emperor Akbar, Shah Jahan's grandfather (Shah Jahan is the man responsible for the Taj Mahal) but also Emperor Jehangir, who ended up marrying Daulah's daughter. Itmad-ud-Daulah was actually not the government representative's given name. Rather, Mizra Ghiyas was given the name Itmad-ud-Daulah as an honor title from the emperors, which translates to "pillar of the state."

Popular Tours

Four-Day Private Luxury Golden Triangle Tour to Agra and Jaipur From New Delhi

(579 reviews)

from $ 196.08

All Inclusive Day Trip to Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Baby Taj from Delhi by Car

(592 reviews)

from $ 23.34

3-Day Private Luxury Golden Triangle Tour to Agra and Jaipur From New Delhi

(233 reviews)

from $ 159.71

Fatehpur Sikri Fatehpur Sikri

Believe it or not, this gorgeous city was built all thanks to one man's blessing. Emperor Akbar, the one also responsible for the Agra Fort , visited the Sikri village to seek guidance from a saint sometime in the 16th century. At the time, there was no heir to his throne, but conveniently after the consultation, Akbar was blessed with the sons he needed to carry on his legacy. To celebrate, Akbar built Fatehpur Sikri, which translates to "City of Victory." Fatehpur Sikri was intended to be the capital of Agra and seat of the Mughal dynasty. Knowing this, you may ask: Why have I never heard of Fatehpur Sikri before? Due to a lack of water, the city was abandoned just a few years after its construction. Just about 23 miles west of Agra, Fatehput Sikri lay empty for hundreds of years. Now, the bewitching ghost town sees an influx of annual visitors, thanks to its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While here, make sure to stop in the Diwan-i-Khas, Akbar's royal chambers, the tomb of the saint that granted Akbar's destiny (the Tomb of Salim Chisti) as well as Jami' Masjid, the on-site mosque said to be modeled after the Great Mosque of Mecca. 

With fewer crowds than the Taj Mahal or Agra Fort , Fatehpur Sikri is a favorite among travelers for its ornate and detailed Mughal architecture (Fatehpur Sikri is considered to be one of the best examples in the world). Visitors also enjoy being able to tour the magnificent grounds at a leisurely pace. The biggest downside for travelers was surprisingly not the distance to this attraction (it's an hour's drive by car), but rather the hawkers and unofficial guides that pervade the area.

Mehtab Bagh Mehtab Bagh

Interested in seeing the Taj Mahal from more than one angle? Then head over to Mehtab Bagh, or the Moonlight Gardens. Mehtab Bagh is situated opposite of the Taj Mahal on the northern side of the Yamuna River. These gardens are the last of Emperor Babur's 11 gardens that once lined the river. Babur is the founder of the Mughal dynasty, which includes the likes of Shah Jahan (responsible for the Taj Mahal) and Emperor Akbar (responsible for the Agra Fort ). The gardens are modest in comparison to other royal gardens (such as the landscape at Versailles Palace ), but Mehtab Bagh's purpose today is a practical one. After the empire fell, the gardens were neglected and eventually became unrecognizable. Winds would pick up sand that was left in the plot and travel to the Taj Mahal, causing officials to worry about erosion. The garden was rehabilitated specifically to protect the Taj Mahal from these natural occurrences.

Some visitors offered mixed reviews of the gardens, describing the grounds as unimpressive and neglected, while others found the site to be a verdant oasis. Regardless of travelers' feelings about aesthetics, many agreed it was peaceful thanks to its distance from the Taj tourists. Plus, the stunning views of the Taj were more than worth the trip, according to reviewers. Some say the best time to visit is at sunset, when the sky lights up with the Taj in the background.

Explore More of Agra

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

• Group Enquiry? NEW

Places to Visit in Agra

• Uttar Pradesh
• Places To Visit

Tourist Places to Visit in Agra

Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb, Gurudwara Guru Ka Taal, Mehtab Bagh, Akbar's Tomb, Jama Masjid, Anguri Bagh, Sikandra Fort and many more.

Home to one of the world’s seven wonders, the Taj Mahal, Agra is a city full of magnificent Mughal architecture. Although, there are so many more places to visit in Agra beyond Taj Mahal. Be it a family vacation, honeymoon, a solo trip or a group vacation with friends. Agra has something for every trip- romantic strolling at Mehtab Bagh with your partner glaring at Taj Mahal in its full glory or hopping from one fort to another at Fatehpur Sikri and learning all about the Mughal architecture. With the diverse  tourist places in Agra, the city never ceases to be interesting. And the diverse tourist places like Wildlife SOS and Taj Nature Walk make this city all the more unique. Read on to know about these and a lot many places that you can visit in the magnificent city of Agra.

Here is a list of the best places to visit in Agra:

One of the seven wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal stands tall at the south bank of the river Yamuna in Agra. Taj Mahal or the “icon of love” is one of the best places to visit in Agra and the most popular tourist destinations in India.

Top Experiences To Do in Taj Mahal

Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Agra, India, stands as a formidable symbol of Mughal architecture and history. Built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century, it served as the imperial residence for successive emperors. Its majestic red sandstone walls encase splendid palaces, gardens, and a glimpse of India's rich past.

Top Experiences To Do in Agra Fort

Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb

Another Mughal mausoleum on the bank of the river Yamuna, Itmad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb is one of the best places to visit in Agra. The architecture and interior are known to be inspired by that of Taj Mahal’s as it also has traces of white marble from Rajasthan amidst the red sandstone. And for the same reason, it is also known as the “Baby Taj”.

Gurudwara Guru Ka Taal

Gurudwara Guru Ka Taal is not as well known as the other places to see in Agra but is worth visiting. The gurdwara is dedicated to the ninth guru of Sikhs who is Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. The place where it is built is where Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji voluntarily offered his arrest to Aurangzeb.

Best of Jaipur

Mehtab Bagh

Mehtab Bagh in Agra stands at the North of the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort along the bank of river Yamuna. This is one of the many hidden places to visit in Agra. The garden is a char bagh which is a quadrilateral garden layout inspired by the four gardens of paradise mentioned in the Quran. The garden stands perfectly in symmetry with the view of the Taj Mahal.

Best of Manali

Akbar's Tomb

Akbar’s Tomb was built by Jahangir in 1613. If you’re a history buff, this is one of the best places to visit in Agra for you. The tomb is built in red sandstone and holds some of the most stunning marble designs.

Top Experiences To Do in Akbar's Tomb

Best of Delhi

Jama Masjid

The Jama Masjid is one of the most beautiful mosques in India. Built on lines similar to the one in Delhi, this mosque too is an architectural splendour. The construction of this mosque was started in 1839 by Nawab Mohammad Ali Shah Bahadur. The mosque is rich in history and is one of the favourite haunts of history enthusiasts. The mosque has a central prayer hall with eleven massive arches. The pillars  in the mosque are covered with beautiful and intricate carvings that are reminiscent of Indo-Islamic art. Address: Located in Tahseen Ganj, Husainabad, Lucknow. Timing: The mosque remains open to visitors for all days of the week from 5:00 am to 9:00 pm. However, you should try to visit the mosque during the early hours of the day, so that you can admire the architectural splendour of the mosque with ease.

Top Experiences To Do in Jama Masjid

Best of Rishikesh

Anguri Bagh

A landscape of verdant greenery awaits you in the sprawling gardens of Anguri Bagh that is located in Khas Mahal in Agra Fort.

Best of Dehradun

Sikandra Fort

The Sikandra Fort homes the great emperor Akbar’s Tomb. The fort is known for its magnificent gates, tombs, and red sandstone designs which makes it one of the most visited tourist places in Agra. The fort is also known for its architecture which is a blend of Islamic and Hindu designs.

Best of Kullu

Taj Nature Walk

Taj Nature Walk has been developed by the Social Forestry Division of Agra. The trail serves as a great place to enjoy amazing views of the Taj Mahal. It also has many watchtowers along the trail from where you can view the Taj Mahal from different angles. The trail homes some very unique varieties of flowers, shrubs and trees.

Best of Jodhpur

Chini Ka Rauza

Made out of myriad hued tiles of chini, this is one of the most unique historical places to visit in Agra which was built in 1635. The mausoleum is perched on the banks of River Yamuna and charms the visitors with stunning Indo-Persian architecture. The unique building extensively uses glazed glass windows.

Best of Jaisalmer

Dolphin Water Park

If you get tired and saturated with all the Mughal architecture and monuments, this is one of the best places to see in Agra and wind off. Dolphin Water World is north India’s biggest water park.

Wildlife SOS

Wildlife SOS is a rescue and conservation organization in Agra. Their campus is located in the Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary. The organization also works on rescue operations and conservation of bears and have recently opened the bear rescue facility for visitors.

Diwan-I-Aam

Hailed as one of the UNESCO world heritage sites, Diwan-i-Aam is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Agra. It is famous as the place where Shah Jehan used to have his meetings with the public and heard their problems. It is a stunning specimen of architecture and fascinates everyone.

Fatehpur Sikri

Fatehpur Sikri, situated near Agra, India, stands as a magnificent testament to Mughal architectural grandeur. Commissioned by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century, Fatehpur Sikri served as the capital of the Mughal Empire for a brief period. Its red sandstone structures, including the Jama Masjid, Buland Darwaza, and the intricately carved Panch Mahal, exhibit exquisite craftsmanship and cultural fusion. The city's layout reflects Akbar's vision of unity among diverse religious communities. However, Fatehpur Sikri's abandonment due to water scarcity underscores the precarious balance between ambition and environmental constraints. Today, it remains a UNESCO World Heritage Site, captivating visitors with its historical charm and architectural marvels.

People Also Ask About Agra

What are the romantic places to visit in agra, how can i spend 2 days in agra.

You can spend 2 days in Agra by indulging in the sightseeing of many popular places. You can talk to the guides and get to know about the stunning history of these architectural marvels. The best places to see in 2 days in Agra are Taj Mahal: No one leaves Agra without seeing the beauty of Taj Mahal. Perched on the banks of River Yamuna, Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal ruler Shah Jehan to commemorate his wife Mumtaz Mahal. It is hailed as one of the seven wonders of the world and continues to astound everyone with its brilliant architecture Agra Fort: An exemplar of brilliant craftsmanship, Agra Fort dates back to the 16th century. This is a building made out of red sandstone and well-known as one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites It is also called Lal Qila and home to some excellent structures like Pearl Mosque, Diwan-i I Khas, Diwan-i I Aam, Kinari Bazar: A delight for all shopping lovers, Kinari Bazaar will dazzle you with a plethora of colorful shops. Don't forget to utilise your bargaining skills here as you can get many amazing items here like jewelry, fabric, clothing, shoes, marble work etc. Mehtab Bagh: A scenic respite for nature lovers, this is an expanse of sprawling gardens which offer a picture-perfect view of the Taj Mahal. It is a superb spot to capture some sunset clicks and take out some time to contemplate among the colorful flowers. Fatehpur Sikri: With its foundation laid by the Mughal emperor Akbar, Fatehpur Sikri is an important tourist site to be visited from Agra to admire some brilliant architecture. It is a famed UNESCO world heritage site and has many popular attractions like Jodha Bai's Palace, Jama Mosque, Buland Darwaza, and Tomb of Salim Chisti etc. Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah: This stunning piece of architecture in Agra is also known as Baby Taj Mahal. It was built by Noor Jehan and made out of marble which keeps mesmerising the visitors. The design closely depicts Indo-Islamic architecture and presents a sight to behold with its arched entrance and octagonal towers.

Which are the best places to visit in Agra at night?

Light And Sound Show At Agra Fort: This spectacular event showcases an excellent looking fort through a whole new lens. The show is combined with wonderful sound effects and visuals that narrates the history of Agra. Shopping in Agra: Agra is well-known for selling many unique items which can be shopped from its traditional bazaars. Here, you can take home a number of souvenirs ranging from jewellery, embroidered fabrics, carpets, etc. The best places to show your bargaining skills in Agra are Sadar Bazaar, Kinari Bazaar and Munro Road. Street food of Agra: All the foodies can brace themselves to indulge in a number of Mughal delicacies when they are touring in Agra. The best items that are sure to fill up your tummies with love in Agra include tasty chaats, spicy dalmoth, cheela, tikki, kachori, and delicious petha Enjoy at Special Events in Agra: Agra is well-known for hosting a number of cultural events which invite a lot of tourists throughout the year. These events add glitter to the amazing evenings in Agra and allow you to look at it with a different lens. Some of the prominent events not to miss when you are in Agra are Ram Baraat, Baloon ride, Taj literature festival, Kailash fair, and Gangaur Fair.

Which are the best places to visit in Agra for kids?

Taj Mahal: Don’t leave Agra without showing your kids one of the seven wonders of the world. This historical structure is a brilliant specimen of Mughal architecture and incites curiosity for everyone who has an interest in history. Wildlife SOS: A brilliant initiative to protect animals and conserve the natural heritage of India, this animal rescue organization is much loved by all the kids. The most striking feature of this place is the Agra Bear and Elephant Rescue facility. Sadar Market: One of the loved places to visit in Agra for the kids, Sadar Market is a wonderful retreat to buy many souvenirs, shops, leather goods, marble products etc. When you are here, you can also gorge on traditional delicacies like Chaat which are served on the food stalls here.  Dolphin Water Park: Head to Dolphin World Water Park to enjoy a spectacular day with kids. It is well known for having an amusement park, a play area, a locker room and many other facilities like swimming and games which are well suited to have a recreational day with kids.

What are the places to visit in Agra with family?

Agra Travel Guides

Agra Reviews

Popular Nearby Places Around Agra

More things to do in agra, more on agra tourism, popular related destinations.

Best Domestic Packages

Best international packages, domestic honeymoon packages, international honeymoon packages, places to visit in india, international places to visit, things to do in india, international things to do, popular on thrillophilia.

• We assure the privacy of your contact data.
• This data will only be used by our team to contact you and no other purposes.

Your enquiry has been received successfully. Our destination expert will reach out to you soon!

• Login or Create Account
• Places To Visit In Agra

Places to Visit in Agra

Nestled on the banks of Yamuna River, Agra welcomes tourists with its Mughal-era structures, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, magnificent forts, tombs and pulsating markets.

Things To See & Do

An Immortal Symbol of Love

2 to 3 hours

Suggested Time

Ancient Mughal Residence

Akbar's Tomb

Mughal architecture masterpiece.

1 to 2 hours

Moti Masjid

Pearl mosque of agra.

Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb

Mini taj mahal.

Mehtab Bagh

Picturesque mughal-style garden.

Fatehpur Sikri

Mughal-era imperial city, best time to visit agra, ideal winter destination, peak season, moderate season.

• What To Expect : Pleasant weather throughout the day. The evenings are reasonably cold.
• Things You'll Love : Shopping and sightseeing.

Festivals and Events

Taj Mahotsav February 18-27

Ram Barat Just before Dussehra

Book Your Trip to Agra

Travel options to reach agra.

Our Recommendations

Train to Agra Cantt

2h 15m . one way.

Booking Price

Bus to Agra

3h 55m . one way, stay in agra.

Recommended Options

3 STAR HOTELS

Recommended for you.

Average Price

4 STAR HOTELS

5 star hotels, discover by interest.

Idyllic Romantic Destinations

Serene Hill Stations

Honeymoon destinations

Affordable International Destinations

Perfect Weekend Spots

Best Beach Destinations

Best places to visit in agra.

On the Yamuna River's banks, Agra is home to beautiful forts, tombs, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, bustling markets, and buildings from the Mughal Empire. Here is a guide to some of the top places to visit in Agra.

Top Places to Visit in Agra

Akbar's tomb.

The white marble and red sandstone architectural blend makes Akbar Tomb one of the best places to visit in Agra.

One of the top places in Agra, Moti Masjid was built by Shah Jahan. This structure is like a shining diamond when sunshine strikes its surface.

Mehtab Bagh , a garden in the Charbagh style is one of the top places to visit in Agra near Taj Mahal and the Agra Fort. It has a distinctive shape and was developed by Babur.

Mariam-UZ-Zamani

For Mariam, a Lodi Dynasty pavilion was transformed into a Mughal tomb. It is also another one of the great places to visit in Agra.

This Persian-style garden, which dates to the 16th century, has several walks and ponds. It is one of the best places in Agra.

Best Time to Visit Agra

This is the time from April to June. There aren't many visitors during this season. Agra's summertime extreme heat and dryness are intimidating. But, because there aren't many people about it, you may easily see all of the city's notable historical sites .

There is something to be said about monuments that are wet from the rain. In the rain, the Taj Mahal is very stunning. Travelling around is also simpler at this time of year. You can still travel about the city and take in the sights because the rain is not too intense. July to September is a romantic time.

The temperature is cool and pleasant. Like other seasons, rain or shine doesn't affect you negatively. Instead, you get to leisurely see every inch of Agra. October to March is the peak season.

Places to Visit in Agra with Family & Friends

Wildlife sos.

Around 200 sloth bears were rescued from the cruel bear dance practice. They now reside at the Wildlife SOS Agra Bear Rescue Center. It is one the best places to visit in Agra in 1 day.

Jama Masjid

The Jama Masjid was commissioned by Jahanara Begum. It was made after receiving permission from Shah Jahan. Its construction was between 1643 and 1648.

Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary

If you love nature and birds then you are going to love this beautiful scenic sanctuary. It is one of the best places to visit in Agra for family and friends.

Best Places in Agra for Couples

Itmad-ud-daulah’s tomb.

One of the best places to visit in Agra, this Mughal mausoleum was built by Nur Jahan in memory of her late father Mirza Ghiyas Beg. It is often described as a jewel box.

It was a place of residence for the Mughal emperors till 1638. This 16th-century fort was built by Akbar. It is now a World Heritage Site. It is one of the famous places to visit in Agra.

The Taj Mahal perfectly captures the city's reputation as a destination for romance and love. It tops the list of places to visit in Agra for couples.

Good Places to Visit at Night in Agra

Light & sound show at taj mahal and agra fort.

One of the top places to visit in Agra in evening, visitors to the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort have grown to love the light and sound extravaganza.

Kinari Bazaar

The tiny, congested alleyways create a distinctive atmosphere that draws tourists from around the globe.

Thor the Party World

When you step inside, the vibrant colours, powerful sound systems, and psychedelic designs on the walls make it feel more exciting and alive. It is another of the top places to visit in Agra.

Best Places to Visit Near Agra

Akbar established this site as the Mughal capital in a tiny fort city which is one of the top places to visit in Agra near Taj Mahal. This once-ghost town is now home to distinctive structures that combine elements of Islamic, Hindu, and Christian architecture.

You may visit the Machkund Temple, go to the top of the Shergarh Fort, and go on a safari in the Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary.

Mathura is an ancient Indian city in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is the birthplace of Lord Krishna. It is one of the best places to celebrate Holi in India .

These were the top places in Agra. Make sure you take a trip to this wonderful city and enjoy the exciting places.

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Agra

What are the activities you can explore during the peak season and moderate season in agra.

In the peak season months October, November, December, January, February and March you will experience pleasant weather throughout the day. The evenings are reasonably cold wherein around moderate season i.e. July, August and September you will enjoy humid weather along with moderate rainfalls. Whatever that suits your calendar, Agra awaits you for a good time.

What is the best time to visit Agra?

Ideally the best time to visit any place is considered when the weather conditions are delightful. For Agra, you can choose to go in October, November, December, January, February and March which is the peak season and July, August and September which is the moderate season. Both will serve you well to unwind from your tedious routine.

What are the best places to visit in Agra?

Agra has loads of places that you can visit on your vacation. Our recommendation of the best places to visit in Agra include - Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Akbar's Tomb. Apart from these, there are multiple other places to visit that you can explore if you are on a longer trip!

Similar Places to Visit in Other Destinations

More places & things to explore in agra, explore more, top states in india, best places to visit in months, places to visit in countries from india, places to visit in states in india, best international places to visit in 2024.

© 2024 MAKEMYTRIP PVT. LTD.

Country India US UAE

23 Incredible Tourist Places to Visit in Agra

Agra is a city etched in everyone’s memory for sheltering the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal. But it has a lot more history and culture unexplored in its alleys. This erstwhile capital of the Mughal Empire is the epitome of the country’s grand past.

You have an array of beautiful places to visit in Agra . The city has been a vibrant hub of culture, art and architectural magnificence for centuries.

From the robust Agra Fort to the intricately detailed palaces of Fatehpur Sikri, several historical treasures are nestled around the banks of River Yamuna. They echo the voices of the past. Each monument tells its own unique tale.

But the story of Agra isn’t just in stone. It’s in the aroma of the bustling bazaars, in the colourful crafts, and in the warmth of its culture.

This vibrant city in northern India invites you on a remarkable expedition through time. Here’s a list of places to visit in Agra and venture into an unforgettable journey.

This list is your guide to experiencing the heart and soul of Agra.

1 . Taj Mahal

Constructed entirely out of white marble, the Taj Mahal is one of the most beautiful monuments in the world. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site from the Mughal era.

Taj Mahal is an architectural beauty built by Shah Jahan. It’s an enchanting monument and a symbol of eternal love. It’s the mausoleum for Mumtaz Mahal, Shah Jahan’s beloved wife. The grave of Shah Jahan, too, is inside.

The monument is the centrepiece of a complex, which includes a mosque and an assembly hall. And its breathtaking beauty, intricate design and impeccable craftsmanship make it one of the must places to visit in Agra. It takes you on a journey through time and culture.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a lover of art and architecture, Taj Mahal will leave you spellbound. The gardens and water channels around make it even more spectacular.

• Entry Fee : ₹50 per person
• Timings : Sunrise – Sunset
• Distance from Agra : Close to city centre

2 . Agra Fort

Agra Fort is a magnificent fortress located close to River Yamuna. It’s another architectural marvel from the Mughal era that offers a captivating glimpse into the royal lifestyle and artistic brilliance of the rulers.

This vast fort takes you on a journey through the prime of the Mughal Empire. It’s one of the best places to visit in Agra other than the Taj Mahal. Here, history comes alive.

It’s a large complex surrounded by a red sandstone wall, giving it the name Red Fort of Agra. Among the places to go in Agra Fort are halls like Diwan-e-Aam and Diwan-e-Khaas, and the palaces like Jahangir Palace and Khaas Mahal.

It’s one of the most popular historical places to visit in Agra. The fort served as the residence of the Mughal emperors until the capital was shifted to Delhi. You’ll feel the royal aura as soon as you step in. You can even get a view of the Taj Mahal from the fort.

No tour to Agra is ever complete without visiting the Agra Fort.

3 . Fatehpur Sikri

Fatehpur Sikri is another tourist place with historical monuments from the Mughal era. It’s an entire complex of buildings near Agra, sitting majestically on a rocky ridge. This heritage site is a spectacular showcase of the grandeur of Mughal architecture.

It was built by Emperor Akbar as his imperial capital. And much of this forgotten kingdom is still preserved, as if untouched by time. The varied artistry will leave you spellbound.

Here, you can explore many places like Jodha Bai’s Palace, Panch Mahal and the tomb of Salim Chishti. You’ll witness the awe-inspiring magnificence of Fatehpur Sikri from Buland Darwaza itself. It’s a 54-metre-high gateway that forms the main entrance of the palace.

• Distance from Agra : 36 km

4 . Akbar’s Tomb

In the suburbs of Agra, in the Sikandra region, lies the tomb of Akbar. It’s the final resting place of Emperor Akbar and an important architectural masterpiece of the Mughal era.

A majestic gateway welcomes you to explore the impressive tomb and its surrounding garden. This grand mausoleum stands as a symbol of Akbar’s sophisticated taste in architecture. It’s constructed with red sandstone and marble, and it stands elegantly against the skyline.

Akbar selected this site for his tomb and oversaw the construction himself. After his death, his son Salim (popularly known as Jahangir) added another storey to the top.

This serene location offers a tranquil space for reflection. And one of its unique features is that it faces toward the rising sun, unlike the tombs of other Muslim kings, which face Mecca.

• Entry Fee : ₹15 per person
• Distance from Agra : 9 km from city centre

5 . Mariam’s Tomb

Mariam’s Tomb is another of Agra’s special places. It’s the mausoleum of Mariam-uz-Zamani, commonly known as Jodha Bai. She was the favourite wife of Akbar. And she is the only wife of Akbar, buried close to him. The tomb is about 1 km away from Akbar’s tomb.

Erected by Jahangir, Mariam-uz-Zamani’s tomb boasts an impressive fusion of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles. A visit to this ornately designed tomb will transport you back to the era of Mughal grandeur. It’s built of red sandstone, in the middle of a garden.

It’s a calm tourist destination that’s an integral part of Agra’s historical legacy, making it an unmissable part of your journey. It’s a sight to behold.

• Entry Fee : ₹5 per person
• Distance from Agra : 10 km from city centre

6 . Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid is another monument that stands as a testimony of the grandeur of Mughal architecture. It’s a 17th-century structure that’s one of the largest mosques in India.

Jama Masjid dominates the heart of the city. It’s a significant landmark in Agra, and it’s one of the most prominent places to visit near Agra Fort. You can see its soaring domes and towering minarets from the fort.

The mosque was constructed under the reign of Shah Jahan, and it’s dedicated to his daughter Jahan Ara Begum. It’s a captivating monument constructed entirely of red sandstone and white marble. Intricate calligraphy praising Shah Jahan and Jahan Ara Begum adorns its walls.

It isn’t just a religious site but a vibrant part of Agra’s cultural heritage. Thousands of devotees attend the special prayers conducted every Friday.

• Entry Fee : Free
• Timings : 7 AM – 12 PM and 1.30 PM – 6.30 PM

7 . Tomb of I'timad-ud-Daulah

Also referred to as “Baby Taj,” I’timad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb is a mausoleum built by Nur Jahan, the wife of Jahangir. It was for her father, Mir Gheyas Beg (later known as I’timad-ud-Daulah). He was a minister in the court of Shah Jahan.

I’timad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb is the first tomb in India made entirely of marble. It stands as a large jewel box along the banks of the Yamuna River, looking like a smaller replica of the Taj Mahal.

It’s an embodiment of the lavish artistic sensibilities of the Mughal era that followed in the later constructions. And it’s one of the top places to visit in Agra near the Taj Mahal.

The beautifully landscaped garden and intricate inlay work on marble is a timeless testament to Mughal’s architectural legacy. It’s considered the first structure to use such inlay work, and it was the first to be built on the banks of River Yamuna.

• Entry Fee : ₹10 per person

8 . Chini Ka Rauza

Another popular tomb of a minister is Chini Ka Rauza. It’s the tomb of Afzal Khan Shirazi, a scholar and poet who was the Prime Minister of Shah Jahan. The monument is known for its intricate glazed tile work (also called ‘chini’ work, from which it derives its name).

Chini Ka Rauza distinguishes itself from other Mughal monuments through its distinct Persian architectural style. It’s believed to be the only building in India in Persian architecture.

The interiors of the shrine are adorned with intricate paintings and design unique to the Persian art style. They’re well-preserved compared to the exterior.

Its colourful tiles were once a vivid mosaic of turquoise, yellow and green. They created an enchanting monument that captured everyone’s attention. But much of them has now worn off. Still, a visit to the monument adds a splash of colour to your exploration of Agra.

9 . Mehtab Bagh

Mehtab Bagh is a Mughal garden in the traditional Charbagh style of the Mughal era. It’s just opposite the Taj Mahal on the other bank of River Yamuna.

It’s one of the last Mughal gardens in Agra. It’s believed that Shah Jahan had it designed for his personal interests. He came up here to admire the beauty of the Taj Mahal. On clear nights, the water of the park offered a clear reflection of the monument.

It perfectly aligns with the Taj and provides an unmatched vantage point to savour its beauty. Because of that, it’s a popular sunset spot among photography fanatics.

The garden is a tranquil haven away from the city’s bustle. Its lawns and walkways mirror that of the Taj Mahal. You’ll find several vibrant flowering plants and bushes here. And from the backdrop, the marble mausoleum rises majestically, reflecting the soft glow of the setting sun.

• Entry Fee : ₹30 per person

10 . Ram Bagh

Ram Bagh is another garden nestled on the banks of River Yamuna. It's one of the oldest Mughal gardens in India. It was built by Emperor Babur and re-shaped by Nur Jahan, the wife of Jahangir.

The garden has been mentioned as Aaram Bagh (Garden of Rest) and Bagh-e-Gul Afshan in the historical texts. But with time, it has come to be referred to as Ram Bagh.

Whatever you want to call it, it’s among the good places to visit in Agra for couples. Its serenity offers a respite from the bustling crowd of Agra. Whether you’re a nature lover or a history enthusiast, a visit to Ram Bagh is a refreshing journey.

Ram Bagh follows the style of the Charbagh concept, with geometrically arranged flower beds, water channels and pathways. It’s a showcase of the love of the Mughals for nature. You can even see a distant silhouette of the Taj Mahal from the garden.

11 . Humayun Mosque

Humayun Mosque is a lesser-known monument of the Mughal era that you should visit during sightseeing in Agra. It’s built on the banks of River Yamuna, close to Mehtab Bagh.

The mosque hasn’t found mentions in texts associated with Mughal history, but it’s among the earliest constructions by the Mughals. According to an inscription on the facade, it was constructed in 1530, during the reign of Humayun.

The mosque is made of brick and plastered with lime. And it’s probably the only monument in Agra from Humayun’s time. Apart from the mosque, you’ll also find Humayun’s astronomical observatory, Gyarah Sidhi, in the vicinity.

12 . Soami Bagh Samadh

Soami Bagh Samadh is a spiritual retreat and architectural wonder in Agra. This temple is one of a kind as it promotes the unity of mankind, regardless of one’s religion. And it’s among the most beautiful and intriguing structures around.

Situated in the Dayal Bagh area, Soami Bagh Samadh is mainly the magnificent mausoleum of Huzur Swamiji Maharaj. He’s the founder of the Radhasoami faith. The construction of this spiritual centre began in the 1900s and went on for a century. But it was left unfinished.

Soami Bagh attracts both devotees and tourists with its tranquillity. It’s a spiritual destination for people of different faiths who come here to be a part of satsang activities and spiritual talks.

Constructed primarily from white marble, the samadhi is adorned with beautiful abstract and floral motifs. You’ll sense an aura of peace as you explore the temple and gardens.

• Timings : 6 AM – 6 PM

13 . Mankameshwar Temple

Shri Mankameshwar Mandir is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s believed to be the oldest sacred site in Agra. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva himself established the Shivalinga here.

The sanctum sanctorum of the temple has the idol of the presiding deity. The Shivalinga is entirely covered with silver.

The temple is thronged with devotees throughout the year. It’s believed that Shiva fulfills the beliefs of anyone who prays here. The complex also includes small temples of Lord Hanuman, Lord Krishna, Goddess Ganga and others.

• Timings : 5 AM – 12 PM and 4 PM – 10 PM

14 . Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception

The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is a remarkable architectural gem tucked away in the bustling Agra city. The bright church building was designed by an Italian architect, and it’s one of the oldest cathedrals in Agra. It was constructed in 1848.

The church is the seat of Agra’s Roman Catholic Archdiocese. And it stands as an example of the religious diversity of the city. Its architectural beauty and tranquil ambiance also captivate tourists, and they’re pulled in to explore the complex.

The church building was extensively damaged during the freedom struggle in 1857. But it has been restored to its former glory gradually.

• Timings : 9 AM – 6 PM

15 . Gurudwara Guru Ka Tal

Gurudwara Guru Ka Tal is one of the important places to visit in Agra for the Sikh community. It’s a Sikh pilgrimage site built in memory of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.

This religious monument was built in the 1970s. It’s said to be the same place where the guru surrendered to Aurangzeb voluntarily. He was martyred for practicing his faith. Before, the place had a reservoir (taal) for conserving rainwater.

Devotees visit this gurudwara every year and gather to pay homage to this great Sikh guru. Tourists also come here because of its tranquillity and architecture. It’s one of the free places to visit in Agra that anyone can explore.

• Timings : 6 AM – 7 PM
• Distance from Agra : 8 km from city centre

16 . Paliwal Park

Paliwal Park (or K. D. Paliwal Park) is a small but verdant park in the heart of Agra. The park has jogging pathways, yoga spots and a small lake with boating facilities. It’s popular among the local people who go there to unwind and spend time in a peaceful environment.

It’s home to a variety of plants and trees that create a lush green environment for meditation and relaxation. Being in the centre of Agra, it attracts a lot of tourists who want to relax after exploring the city.

The park was originally known as Hewitt Park during British rule. Later, it was renamed to the current K. D. Paliwal Park in memory of Shri Krishna Datta Paliwal, the first finance minister of the state.

• Timings : 6 AM – 8 PM

17 . Dolphin Water Park

Dolphin Water Park is among the places to visit in Agra for fun. This vibrant water world offers an exhilarating break from sightseeing with splashes of fun and thrills.

Dolphin Water Park is a fun-filled retreat for visitors of all ages. With its array of thrilling water slides, It’s a haven for thrill-seekers. And those seeking a more laid-back experience can enjoy the wave pool.

Kids aren’t left out of the fun, either. With a dedicated kids pool and a variety of family rides, it ensures that the little ones have as much fun as the adults.

After a day of soaking in history and culture, Dolphin Water Park is the place to let yourself loose. It offers a refreshing change of pace along with a buffet of comfort food. It’s one of the best places to visit in Agra with friends.

• Entry Fee : ₹650 per person
• Timings : 11.30 AM – 6 PM
• Distance from Agra : 18 km

18 . Wildlife SOS

Wildlife SOS is one of the unique places to visit in Agra. The organization is dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of India’s diverse wildlife. Compassion meets conservation here, offering an insightful and heart-warming experience to tourists.

Established in 1995, Wildlife SOS is known worldwide for its rescue efforts. Its Agra Bear Rescue Facility is the largest sloth bear rescue facility in the world. And the Elephant Care and Conservation Centre, near Mathura, rehabilitates captive elephants.

The place offers a guided tour of the area with fascinating stories of animal rescues. They also have documentaries that showcase how they conserve and protect wild habitats.

Amidst exploring Agra’s rich history, Wildlife SOS offers an unforgettable detour into wildlife conservation. It gives you a deep understanding of the efforts toward animal protection. And it also brings you up close to India’s incredible wildlife.

• Entry Fee : ₹1500 as donation
• Timings : 8 AM – 6 PM
• Distance from Agra : 30 km

19 . Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary

Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is a lesser-known but captivating tourist destination full of avian wonders Near Agra. It offers a delightful escape into a colourful world of birds and enchanting natural beauty.

Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is an immersive nature retreat. It offers plenty of opportunities to connect with nature.

The sanctuary is centred around the beautiful Keetham Lake. It offers a tranquil refuge to dozens of migratory and resident birds, thus forming the heart of this biodiversity hotspot. It’s a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.

The verdant forest surrounding the lake and the man-made islands also add to its beauty. Whether you’re thinking of bird photography or simply seeking tranquillity, a visit to Soor Sarovar is a refreshing experience.

• Distance from Agra : 19 km

20 . Keoladeo National Park

Keoladeo National Park (or Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary) is another vibrant avian paradise near Agra. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it has been recognised as one of the important breeding and feeding grounds for birds in the world.

As you traverse its wetlands and grasslands, you’re likely to witness a kaleidoscope of wild species. The national park is home to over 370 species of birds and animals.

A bicycle or rickshaw ride through the park offers a deep dive into its rich biodiversity. It’s a journey into the heart of nature. Whether you’re an avid birder, a wildlife enthusiast, or a nature lover, Keoladeo National Park will leave you spellbound.

• Entry Fee : ₹75 per person
• Distance from Agra : 56 km

21 . Mathura

Just a short trip from Agra is the divine journey into the birthplace of Lord Krishna – Mathura. This ancient but vibrant town is among the best places to visit near Agra. The visit is as much about spiritual exploration as it is about cultural immersion.

Temples dot the landscape of Mathura. All these temples, big or small, are dedicated to Lord Krishna in some way.

Shri Krishna Janmabhumi is the most famous tourist attraction in the town. It’s believed to be the exact place where Krishna was born. The two other important temples in Mathura are Dwarkadheesh Temple and Gita Mandir.

The colours and festivities of Mathura also offer a fascinating glimpse into the local culture and traditions. The aura of the town draws pilgrims and tourists alike. It enchants everyone, inviting them to connect with India’s spiritual heritage.

• Distance from Agra : 58 km

22 . Vrindavan

Another of the holiest places is Vrindavan (also pronounced as Brindaban), about 10 km from Mathura. It’s famed as the childhood abode and playground of Lord Krishna. It’s steeped in devotion, mysticism and tales of love (of Krishna and Radha).

Temples are the main attractions in Vrindavan, too. It hosts hundreds of temples dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha scattered throughout the town. The Banke Bihari temple and ISKCON temple are the most popular among them.

These temples not only offer a unique spiritual experience but also depict the playful nature of Lord Krishna. The aroma of incense and the melody of bhajans will envelop you throughout.

• Distance from Agra : 70 km

23 . Bateshwar

Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Agra, Bateshwar is a small village. It’s an important spiritual and cultural centre for Hindus.

Bateshwar is best known for its Shiva temple complex. It’s a cluster of ancient shrines on the banks of River Yamuna.

Here, spirituality, history and natural beauty coexist harmoniously. The riverside setting of the complex infuses it with a serene ambiance. This serenity is also heightened by the melodious chirping of birds. The trip offers a tranquil retreat from the modern world.

• Distance from Agra : 80 km

Other Places to Visit in Agra

Apart from the above reasons to visit Agra, you have many more famous places to visit in Agra city and nearby. You can explore some of them with the Taj Nature Walk or Mughal Heritage Walk .

If you want to immerse yourself in the culture of Agra, visit Shilpgram arts and crafts village or watch the dance-drama show depicting the history of the Taj Mahal at Kalakriti Cultural Centre. Festivals like Taj Mahotsav also offer an opportunity to understand the culture of the region.

And if you’re looking for something famous in Agra for shopping, check out Kinari Bazaar, Sadar Bazaar or Subhash Bazaar. Raja Ki Mandi and Chaat Gali are also popular for shopping and local cuisine. Those are among the best places to visit in Agra in the evening.

Agra also has a few other spiritual sites like Kailash Temple, ISKCON Temple and St. Mary’s Church. Do explore them when you have time to spare.

Agra has a lot more than the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri to explore. It promises a diverse and enriching holiday.

As you traverse through the city, it unfolds a unique facet of its complex mosaic of culture. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a spiritual seeker, a nature lover or an adventure junkie, Agra caters to all interests and age groups.

Lastly, don’t forget to soak in the city’s ambiance, visit the local tea stalls, and savour the street food. Interacting with the locals is the best way to get a complete Agra experience.

So, pack your bags and head over to all the fun places to visit in Agra. Plan your visit between November and February when the weather in Agra is the best.

Excited About Agra?

Request A Call Back!

Top Tourism Places to Visit in Agra

• Taj Mahal Agra
• Tomb of I'timād-ud-Daulah
• Anguri Bagh Agra
• Diwan-i-Aam Agra
• Ram Bagh Agra
• Sheesh Mahal Agra
• Taj Nature Walk Agra
• Nagina Masjid Agra
• Khas Mahal Agra
• Mina Masjid Agra
• Wildlife SOS Agra
• Paliwal Park Agra
• Dolphin Water Park Agra
• Jahangir Palace Agra
• Keetham Lake Agra
• Fatehpur Sikri Fort Agra
• Jama Masjid Agra
• Akbar's Tomb Agra
• Taj Museum Agra
• Chini Ka Rauza Agra
• Dayal Bagh Agra
• Gurudwara Guru ka Tal Agra
• Mehtab Bagh Agra
• Moti Masjid Agra
• Mughal Heritage Walk Agra
• Gyarah Sidi Agra
• Soami Bagh Samadh Agra
• Humayun Mosque Agra
• Mariam's Tomb Agra
• Shri Mankameshwar Mandir Agra
• Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary Agra
• Kalakriti Culture and Convention Centre Agra
• Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity Agra
• The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception Agra
• Buland Darwaza Fatehpur Sikri Agra
• Jodha Bai’s Palace Fatehpur Sikri Agra
• Panch Mahal Fatehpur Sikri Agra
• Diwan-E-Khas Fatehpur Sikri Agra
• Tomb of Hazrat Salim Chishti Fatehpur Sikri Agra
• Keoladeo National Park Agra
• Bateshwar Agra
• Birbal’s Palace Fatehpur Sikri Agra
• Anoop Talab Fatehpur Sikri Agra
• Hiran Minar Fatehpur Sikri Agra
• Rang Mahal Fatehpur Sikri Agra
• Naubat Khana Fatehpur Sikri Agra
• Samosa Mahal Fatehpur Sikri Agra
• Diwan-E-Aam Fatehpur Sikri Agra
• Lotus Throne Fatehpur Sikri Agra
• Tansen Baradari Fatehpur Sikri Agra
• Lower Haramsara Fatehpur Sikri Agra
• Todarmal Baradari Fatehpur Sikri Agra
• Khwabgah/ Daulat Khana Fatehpur Sikri Agra
• Caravan Sarai Fatehpur Sikri Agra

The Best Places to Visit in Agra in One Day

This post is a travel guide about the best places to visit in Agra in one day. Agra is a city that I still have a love hate relationship with. It’s home to some of the most beautiful historical sights in India, but it is also one of the most hectic and dirty cities on India’s Golden triangle. Luckily it is possible to see all the places to visit in Agra in one day. 

I have seen the Taj Mahal three times now and every time it took my breath away. The Taj mahal alone is worth the effort to conquer the chaos of Agra. But there is more to Agra than just the Taj Mahal. The other places to visit in Agra are equally interesting and neatly fit in a one day itinerary. 

Agra in one day

On my first visit to India in 2007 I almost didn’t make it to Agra. I fell ill in the nearby village of Fatehpur Sikri. The accumulation of 3 weeks of Indian bacteria in my stomach finally took its toll. I stayed in a lovely guesthouse where I stayed in bed for two days while the concerned staff brought me roti’s and herbal teas.

I was supposed to stay only one night, but eventually stayed almost a week. The neighbour children took me to their local madrassa and invited me for tea to their homes. The hospitality was heartwarming and it was hard to leave.

But if I still wanted to continue to Varanasi and Nepal I had to go. But I still didn’t go to Agra to see the Taj Mahal. Everything inside of me didn’t want to go to this hectic city, but I made a decision. The next day would be my birthday and nothing is more special than seeing the Taj Mahal on your 25th birthday, isn’t it?

I would take the bus and then hire a tuk tuk to see all the places to visit in Agra in one day. It was the best decision ever. While its tourist attractions are stunning, the rest of the city is nothing to write home about. 

Later in my life I visited Agra two more times. The Taj Mahal never gets boring. Even though I never spent more than one day in Agra itself, I did discover some of the interesting places to visit nearby Agra such as Fatehpur Sikri and Mathura. 

In this post I will share with you the most important places to visit in Agra in one day and some suggestions of places to visit nearby Agra in case you have more time. 

Places to visit in Agra in one day

The Taj Mahal is the most beautiful mausoleum in the world and a symbol of love. It was built by the Mughal ruler Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Although it was an arranged marriage when they were both very young they eventually fell in love. She died in 1631 giving birth to their 14th child. 

Her last wish was for a large mausoleum in Agra. It almost emptied the royal treasury and led to famines in the region as grain was diverted to Agra to feed the 20.000 man workforce.  

The mausoleum is made of white marble and famous for its pietra dura. An inlay technique in which colored stones are used to create beautiful images. Obviously it is a must see, but it is also one of the most busy and crowded attractions in India with over 7 million visitors annually. 

The gardens are large enough for people to spread out, but expect to stand in line to get inside the tomb chamber. The cenotaphs you see here are actually empty and the real tombs are at a lower level.

Insider tip : The only reason to stay in Agra is to see the Taj Mahal at sunrise when it is almost pink. It opens at 6 AM and in my opinion it is worth the early wake up call. Not only is the Taj Mahal at its most beautiful in the early hours of the day, but it is also still relatively quiet. Sunset is another great time to see the Taj Mahal, but this time it is better from a boat on the Yamuna from where you have some of the best views minus the crowds. 

The Agra Fort was the residence of the very first Mughal emperors before the capital changed to Delhi. If you have been in the red fort in Delhi , where the Mughals moved next, you might see some similarities. Both are in fact more like a walled city within a city.

Akbar began construction of the fort in 1565 on the site of an ancient fort built by the Lodi dynasty. The fort was built mainly as a military structure to protect the Mughal capital of Agra from invading forces. It features a number of impressive structures, including the Jahangiri Mahal, the Khas Mahal, the Diwan-i-Khas, and the Diwan-i-Am.

Shah Jahan, who is perhaps best known for building the Taj Mahal, made significant additions to the fort during his reign in the mid-17th century. He built the beautiful Moti Masjid, or Pearl Mosque, within the fort and also constructed a number of other structures, including the Sheesh Mahal and the Musamman Burj.

The fort was the site of a number of significant historical events, including the imprisonment of Shah Jahan by his son Aurangzeb, who overthrew him in a bloody coup in 1658. The British also used the fort as a military barracks and administrative center during their rule in India.

Personally I liked the Agra fort even more than the one in Delhi and it is definitely among the top places to visit in Agra in one day.

The tomb of Itimad Ud Daulah is often called the Baby Taj, but it is in fact slightly older than the Taj Mahal and might even have been used as an inspiration. It’s one of the first examples of the pietra dura inlay technique using precious stones. 

It was built in the early 17th century by Nur Jahan, the wife of the Mughal Emperor Jahangir, in memory of her father, Mirza Ghiyas Beg. Mirza Ghiyas Beg was a Persian nobleman who had served in the court of the Mughal Emperor Akbar and his son Jahangir. He had been given the title of Itimad-ud-Daulah, which means “pillar of the state,” and had amassed a considerable fortune during his lifetime.

After Mirza Ghiyas Beg’s death in 1622, Nur Jahan decided to build a tomb for her father in Agra. She chose a site on the banks of the Yamuna River and commissioned the construction of a beautiful marble mausoleum. The design of the tomb was influenced by Persian architecture and features delicate marble inlay work, intricate carvings, and elaborate floral designs.

Even though the Baby Taj is much smaller, I might have liked it even more. For one, it lacks the crowds and the pietra dura floral patterns are very pretty. Inside you will also find images of trees and vases. Where the Taj Mahal impresses you by its size, the beauty of the Baby taj are in its details.  

Jame Masjid

The Jame Masjid (large mosque or friday mosque) in Agra was another master piece by Shah Jahan. Like the Friday mosques in Delhi and Fatehpur Sikri it is made from red sandstone with white marble decorations.

The Jama Masjid of Agra is one of the largest mosques in India and is capable of accommodating thousands of worshippers. It has a large courtyard, which is surrounded by a cloistered arcade with a series of domes and minarets. The mosque has three large entrance gates, which are decorated with intricate designs and calligraphy.

The Jama Masjid of Agra was built at a time when the Mughal Empire was at its height and the city of Agra was one of the most important cultural and political centers in India. The mosque was built to serve as a place of worship for the people of Agra and also to demonstrate the power and wealth of the Mughal Empire.

Sadar bazaar

If you still have some time left I can recommend a visit to Sadar bazaar. This is one of the less touristy parts of Agra and a great place to do some shopping. It is not as big or colorful as the bazaars in Jaipur or Delhi, but you can definitely find some nice souvenirs here. For Dinner head to Mamma Franky house that has the best chicken kebabs with naan in Agra.  

Places to visit near Agra

While it is possible to see all the places to visit in Agra in one day, there are some interesting places nearby that are a good reason to stay a bit longer in this region. If you have more than one day in Agra consider some of the lesser known places below. All of them are an easy day trip from Agra or offer a good alternative for a place to base yourself.  

Fatehpur Sikri

Most people visit Fatehpur Sikri as a daytrip from Agra, but I did it the other way around. I am not a city person and I loved the village atmosphere in this small rural town where I enjoyed the sunset views from the rooftop of my guesthouse while I recovered from my stomach bug. 

On my next visits to Agra I always came back to Fatehpur Sikri. Nowadays it is a typical poor village in Uttar Pradesh, but it was once the capital of the Mughal empire. It was founded by Akbar and the choice for Fatehpur Sikri as the new capital was not a coincidence. The place was much loved by Akbar’s predecessors and first Mughal emperors Babur and Humayun. 

It was also in Fatehpur Sikri that saint Salim Chisti predicted the birth of Akbar’s son Jahangir who was born there. The glory days of Fatehpur Sikri were short though. The city became the capital of the Mughal empire in 1571, but Akbar abandoned it already in 1585. 

Highlights include Akbar’s red sandstone palace, the Jame Masjid with the Buland Darwaza gate (highest gateway in the world) and the tomb of Saint Salim Chisti that is still a popular pilgrimage site for local muslims. 

Sikandra 

Only 10 kilometers away from Agra lies Sikandra where you will find the impressive tomb of Akbar the Great. It’s a great example of Mughal architecture and although it is not as big as some of the other Mughal structures it is very beautiful and rich in elaborate and colorful decorations. 

Mathura & Vrindavan

Being the birthplace of Krishna, Mathura is one of the seven holy cities in India that attracts hundreds of pilgrims every day. It’s a city of temples and scenic ghats along the Yamuna river that reminded me a bit of Varanasi. 

Nearby Vrindavan is equally important as lots of events in Krishna’s life played out in this area. Nowadays it is a shelter city for widows that come here to seek refuge after the death of their husbands.  

Like everywhere in India the business around religion and the amount of annoying wannabe guides can be a bit overwhelming at first. There will be more temples than you can visit, apparently over 5000 of them. The best way to enjoy the towns is walking through the scenic alleyways and the picturesque ghats. 

For nature head to Bharatpur for the Bharatpur bird sanctuary and the Keoladeo National Park. This area is an important breeding site and wintering area for a number of aquatic birds. You will spot lots of them here including my favourite kingfisher. Besides birds you might also spot deers or wild boars. 

Bear rescue center

The Agra bear rescue facility is one of the largest sloth bear rescue facilities in this world. It is run by Wildlife SOS that works throughout India for the conservation of sloth bears, elephants, leopards and other animals. 

Places to visit in Agra in one day travel tips. 

How to get to agra.

Agra has good connections by rail to major cities in India. The city has four railway stations – Agra Cantt, Agra Fort, Agra City, and Raja ki Mandi. Many express trains and superfast trains connect Agra to Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and other major cities in India.

There are also several bus services that operate between Agra and nearby cities like Fatehpur Sikri, Sikandra, Mathura and Bharatpur.

How to get around in Agra

If you wish to see all the places to visit in Agra in one day it is best to use taxi’s or tuk tuks. To avoid having to negotiate everytime I can recommend the use of a taxi hailing app. 

Uber is a good way to get around in Agra, but India has its own similar business called Ola cabs that is even more popular. The good thing about both Ola and Uber is that it is cheaper than a tuk tuk and you do not need to negotiate the price. Both offer a pool option in which you share your ride with others that makes it even more affordable.

Ola also has a tuk tuk option that is one of the best and most affordable ways to travel for shorter distances. 

Places to eat in Agra

One of my favourite restaurants in Agra was the roadside stall “Time 2 Eat Mama Chicken” or “Franky’s chicken house”. There is no place to sit, but the chicken is the best you will ever taste.

Places to sleep in Agra

The first question is whether you should sleep in Agra. Personally I prefer to visit Agra as a day trip while staying in Fatehpur Sikri. However, there is one good reason to stay at least one night in Agra. That is to visit the Taj Mahal early (it opens at 6 AM) to see the sunrise and escape the crowds. 

Agra : Good hostels in Agra are Max guesthouse , Anukampa Paying guesthouse and Coral House Homestay

Fatehpur Sikri : The Sunset View Guesthouse is behind the mosque in Fatehpur Sikri. It is not as clean as it could be and staff are of mixed quality, but the owner is friendly. The best about this guesthouse is the peaceful and quiet location and the view from the rooftop terrace. As the name implies, a great place to watch the sunset. I stayed here 3 times now and during my last visit we saw parrots, peacocks and squirrels who came to join us on the rooftop for breakfast.

When to visit Agra

The best time to visit Agra is between November and February, during the winter season. The weather during these months is pleasant and comfortable, with daytime temperatures ranging between 15°C to 25°C and cool nights. This makes it a perfect time to explore the city’s outdoor attractions, such as the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and other historical monuments.

The summer months from March to June can be very hot, with temperatures soaring up to 45°C, which can make outdoor sightseeing very difficult and uncomfortable. However, if you do visit during this time, it is best to visit the monuments early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the heat.

The monsoon season in Agra starts in July and lasts till September. During this time, the city experiences heavy rainfall.

Sustainable Travel in Agra

Agra is a large city and pollution is a very big problem. Traveling sustainably in Agra, involves conscious choices that minimize your environmental impact and support the local community.

Support the local community:  You can support the community by purchasing goods and services from local vendors, artisans, markets and restaurants. It is better to try Northern Indian cuisine that uses local ingredients rather than imported foreign foods. Northern Indian food is very vegetarian friendly and it is easy to follow a vegan diet.

Stay in small scale sustainable hotels : It is also better to stay in locally-owned guesthouses or homestays to support the local economy directly. These accommodations often have a more positive impact on the environment compared to large hotels.

Where possible, I can recommend staying in a homestay for an authentic cultural experience. You might want to bring a small book with pictures of your family to break the ice.

You can also try to look for guesthouses or homestays that prioritizes sustainable practices. That said, environmental awareness is still low. It’s up to you to use water sparsely, turn off lights, air conditioning, and heating when leaving your accommodation.

Use public transport : Agra has a well-developed public transportation system. Opt for public transport, whenever possible, instead of private cars to reduce carbon emissions.

Respect the culture : Besides environmental concerns it is also important to respect the culture. Agra has a Hindu majority. Therefore, learn about the local customs and traditions beforehand and be mindful of your behavior.

People will appreciate it, if you dress modestly, especially at religious sites. Learning a few basic phrases in Hindi, can go a long way in building meaningful connections and to learn more about the local culture. Not everybody is happy to have their picture taken. When in doubt, ask permission.

Disclaimer : This post about the best places to visit in Agra in one day contains affiliate links. If you buy any service through any of my links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. These earnings help me to keep Backpack Adventures alive! Thanks for your support!

8 thoughts on “The Best Places to Visit in Agra in One Day”

• Pingback: Top 10 things to do in Rajasthan | Backpack Adventures

I can’t believe I still haven’t been in India! But it’s definitely on my list, and I really want to see Taj Mahal!

So great to know that there is more to do in Agra than see the Taj Mahal, we can’t wait to go there. The people seem so warm and welcoming, how sweet of them to look after you when you were sick. We will be sure to watch out for those monkeys, ha ha 🙂

Great post and great photos! Very useful to us as we fly to India for the first time next week. So excited and of course cant wait to see the Taj Mahal. Weve been wanting to see it well forever 🙂 … We are teachers and the school thing sounds really interesting. Is this common in India to volunteer at places like this or just give donations? Thanks for sharing 🙂

Lovely post… Taj is very special but I liked the way you are helping local schools offering free education that’s really great

Agra is just an amazing travel destination, I have been there twice. I would love to go back again and again. I love the Taj a lot.

Thanks for your amazing travel guide and your photos are mind-blowing.

An impressive article you have created.

I have been to Agra thrice and have explored most of the iconic sites.

I visited Agra two days back, and your blog was of so much help. Thank you so much 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Kale by LyraThemes.com.