Agra, Northern India
Must-Visit Places in Agra
Taj Mahal
- Entrance Fee: ₹50 (Indians), ₹1100 (Foreigners), ₹200 for entry to the main mausoleum
- Highlights: Iconic white marble mausoleum, sunrise views, intricate inlay work
- How to Get There: Auto-rickshaw or cab from Agra Cantt Station; Taj East Gate parking area
- Opening Hours: Sunrise to Sunset; Closed on Fridays
- Places to Eat: Esphahan (luxury dining at The Oberoi Amarvilas), Joney’s Place (budget-friendly).
Agra Fort
- Entrance Fee: ₹50 (Indians), ₹650 (Foreigners)
- Highlights: UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mughal architecture, Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas
- How to Get There: Easily accessible by auto-rickshaw or cab
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Places to Eat: Pinch of Spice and Pind Balluchi (North Indian cuisine).
Fatehpur Sikri
- Entrance Fee: ₹50 (Indians), ₹610 (Foreigners)
- Highlights: Red sandstone Mughal city, Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid
- How to Get There: 40 km from Agra; take a bus, taxi, or private vehicle
- Opening Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
- Places to Eat: Sheroes Hangout Cafe (unique social initiative by acid attack survivors).
Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb (Baby Taj)
- Entrance Fee: ₹25 (Indians), ₹310 (Foreigners)
- Highlights: Marble mausoleum, delicate carvings, precursor to the Taj Mahal
- How to Get There: Located near the Yamuna River; accessible by rickshaw or taxi
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Places to Eat: Deviram Sweets (known for snacks and desserts).
Mehtab Bagh
- Entrance Fee: ₹15 (Indians), ₹200 (Foreigners)
- Highlights: Perfect sunset views of the Taj Mahal, lush Mughal gardens
- How to Get There: Opposite the Taj Mahal across the Yamuna River; taxi or rickshaw
- Opening Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
- Places to Eat: Tea’se Me (a rooftop cafe with great views).
Akbar’s Tomb
- Entrance Fee: ₹25 (Indians), ₹310 (Foreigners)
- Highlights: Mughal architecture, serene gardens, wildlife sightings
- How to Get There: Located in Sikandra, about 10 km from the city center; accessible by taxi
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Places to Eat: Bhagat Halwai (for traditional sweets).
Best Time to Visit
- October to March: The weather is cool and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing.
- Avoid: Summers (April–June) as temperatures exceed 40°C, and monsoon season (July–September) due to humidity.
Festivals Celebrated in Agra
- Taj Mahotsav (February): 10-day cultural festival celebrating arts, crafts, and Mughlai cuisine.
- Ram Barat (October/November): A grand procession celebrating Lord Rama’s wedding.
- Diwali (October/November): The festival of lights with vibrant decorations across the city.
- Eid-ul-Fitr: Special feasts and celebrations at Jama Masjid and nearby areas.
Transportation Options
- Cycle Rickshaws and Auto-Rickshaws: Ideal for short distances; negotiate fares.
- Cabs and Taxis: Available via apps like Ola and Uber or local operators.
- Buses: Local buses for budget-friendly travel; not always tourist-friendly.
- Rental Bikes or Scooters: Apps like Rapido or local rentals.
- Tonga Rides: Traditional horse-drawn carriages near the Taj Mahal.
Yoga Classes
- Divine Yoga Classes: Offers beginner and advanced courses, located in Fatehabad Road area.
- Brahma Kumaris Agra Center: Meditation and yoga classes.
- Taj Yoga Retreat: Located near the Taj Mahal, great for tourists.
Cooking Classes
- Agra Cooking and Exotic Dining: Specializes in Indian vegetarian dishes; conducted at local homes.
- Cook with Meena: Learn traditional North Indian cuisine.
- Master Chef Cooking Classes: Offers short and intensive cooking workshops.
Gyms
- Gold’s Gym: Modern facilities and personal training sessions.
- Muscle Factory Gym: Affordable gym with standard equipment.
- Taj Fitness Club: Popular for tourists staying nearby.
Agra is a city that combines rich history with cultural vibrance, offering a range of experiences for all types of travelers. From the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal to local culinary delights, Agra guarantees an unforgettable journey.