Agra, located in northern India, is a treasure trove of history, art, and culture that has captivated travellers for centuries. Step into a world of wonder as I take you through places to visit in Agra, the city home to one of the most iconic landmarks in the world – the Taj Mahal!
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With its majestic monuments, intricate craftsmanship, and tales of love and valour, Agra is a destination that will leave you awe-inspired! Let’s dive in!
Getting to Agra
Getting to Agra is easy and convenient, with several convenient transportation options available.
By Air
The nearest airport to Agra is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, which is well-connected to major cities in India and worldwide.
By Train
Agra is very well connected to the Indian railway network and there are regular trains from major cities in India to Agra.
The Agra Cantonment Railway Station is the main railway station in Agra and is connected to various cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai, among others, through a vast network of trains.
By Road
Agra is well-connected by road to major cities in North India through an extensive network of highways.
If you plan to travel by train, you can book your bus tickets at RedBus here.
The Yamuna Expressway, a modern six-lane expressway, connects Agra to Delhi and makes for a smooth and fast road trip.
Accommodation options in Agra
Luxury Hotels
Agra has several luxury hotels for you that offer top-notch amenities, impeccable service, and a royal experience! Here are some of them I’d like to recommend!
The Oberoi Amarvilas
This property has the best ambience and super helpful staff!
You have beautiful rooms with stylish modern interiors and large windows here. All the well-appointed units are equipped with a sofa, personal safe and private bathroom.
Know more about the availability and prices here.
Taj Hotel & Conventional Centre
I have been here and recommend this Taj Hotel because it has an overlooking view of the great Taj Mahal! This place is 4.5 acres of pure bliss and is one the most iconic landmark in Agra!
You can explore the hotel’s amenities, have a rejuvenating spa, or you can go to the gym and fitness centres too! The rooms here are stylish and well kept and each is outfitted with free wifi.
You can also enjoy the sample traditional Indian cuisine at Daawat-e-Nawab, global-inspired dishes at the all-day dining restaurant, Palato, and trendy food and beverage selections at their poolside sky lounge, Infini, overlooking the Taj Mahal! Know more about booking here.
Budget Hotels
Hotel Amar
Hotel Amar is located in Agra City, 1 km from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Taj Mahal and 2 km from Agra Fort.
You have 2 dining options, an outdoor swimming pool and rooms with a TV and free parking is provided.
It’s a beautiful place with hardwood furnishings and a seating area feature throughout the air-conditioned guestrooms. You can book your stay here.
Hotel Crystal-Inn
If you are a traveller that loves to explore the richness of Indian history and culture during your stay then Crystal Inn is a perfect place for you.
The best and the most preferred advantage for the tourists here is that Crystal Inn is located beside the lofty Taj Mahal, and this ultra-modern centrally established hotel is effectively reachable from all places of interest in and around Agra!
You can expect stylish rooms and great rooftop restaurants around! It’s the best choice for visitors and business voyagers!
Top Attractions In Agra
Taj Mahal
The Great Taj Mahal is an iconic marble mausoleum built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century for his wife Mumtaz Mahal.
You can find one of the most renowned architectural monuments with intricate patterns, stunning white marble, and a romantic aura!
It’s considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and you cannot miss this if you are in Agra!
Agra Fort
Agra Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a historic fort made of red sandstone that served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors!
You have a variety of impressive palaces, halls, and courtyards, with a blend of Islamic and Hindu architectural styles, and offers panoramic views of the Taj Mahal from the Agra Fort!
Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri is a historic city that is located near Agra, built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century.
If you are a history geek then this place is full of stories for you! It’s a well-preserved Mughal architectural site, including Buland Darwaza, Panch Mahal, and Jama Masjid, and is a testament to Akbar’s vision of religious tolerance and cultural synthesis.
Mehtab Bagh
Bagh means garden in English and Mehtab Bagh is a picturesque garden complex located across the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal.
It is known as “Moonlight Garden” and offers tourists stunning views of the Taj Mahal at sunset.
If you are looking for a popular spot for photography and relaxation, with well-manicured lawns, fountains, and flowerbeds then you have to visit this touristy spot!
Activities To Do In Agra
Sunrise and Sunset tours in the Taj Mahal
For all the tourists here, witnessing the sunrise and sunset at the Taj Mahal is a magical experience, with the changing hues of the sky casting a mesmerizing glow on the marble mausoleum.
Food tours
When you are in Agra, you have a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options to choose from! You can go on food tours and taste the delicacies of Agra!
They include – Mughlai kebabs, biryanis, petha (a sweet delicacy), and more while exploring bustling markets and street food stalls and learning about the city’s food culture and traditions.
Shopping for souvenirs
Agra is known for its souvenirs and exquisite handicrafts that make for the perfect mementoes for your visit.
From marble inlay work, leather goods, carpets, jewellery, and textiles, to miniature replicas of the Taj Mahal, Agra offers a plethora of shopping options!
Cultural performances
Agra is steeped in rich cultural traditions, and cultural performances are a highlight of the city’s entertainment scene.
You can witness amazing performances of classical dance forms like Kathak, Hindustani classical music, and folk music that give you a glimpse of Agra’s rich heritage and culture.
Heritage Walks
You can explore the historic streets of Agra on a heritage walk and immerse yourself in the city’s rich heritage, as you uncover hidden gems, ancient architecture, and fascinating stories that transport you to a bygone era!
You can book your tours here.
Visit the marble shops
Agra is well known for different types of marble and granite sheets!
This art and the skilled artisans who make different marble sheets with intricate patterns can definitely add a touch of Agra’s artistic legacy to your home or as a cherished gift!
Day trips from Agra
Mathura and Vrindavan
You can have a short drive from Agra, Mathura and Vrindavan which are sacred towns associated with Lord Krishna, one of the most revered deities in Hindu mythology.
When you are here, you have a chance to explore the birthplace of Lord Krishna in Mathura, visit ancient temples, and soak in the spiritual vibes of Vrindavan, known for its colourful celebrations and devotional music!
Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
You can always opt for this road trip to the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary which is just a few hours away from Agra!
It is also known as Keoladeo National Park which is a paradise for bird lovers!
You can explore the park on a cycle rickshaw or on foot, and witness the stunning avian diversity in their natural habitat, making for a memorable day trip from Agra for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike.
Conclusion
Agra is a city steeped in history, culture, traditions, art and nature which makes it the perfect location for tourists and travellers around the globe!
You can visit the flower gardens, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural festivals, food tours, dance performances and Agra’s heritage here!
This city is a perfect blend of nature’s beauty, history, spirituality and fun that promises travellers like you an unforgettable journey that will leave you with cherished memories for a lifetime!
