Best Things to Do in Agra

Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal, a legendary masterpiece, beckons travelers from history books to reality. Dating back to the 17th century, it's Shah Jahan's poignant tribute to his late wife, Mumtaz Mahal. This architectural marvel took over two decades and 20,000 laborers to complete.

Anytime is a good time to visit, but sunrise illuminates the Taj's splendor. Enter through the west or east gates of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the serene gardens with reflecting water features that mirror the Taj's beauty. Inside, marvel at its symmetrical design, white marble adorned with intricate floral carvings, and semiprecious stone inlays.

Don't miss the Kau Ban Mosque and the Jawab, enhancing the Taj's symmetry. Keep your Taj Mahal ticket for discounts at nearby attractions, including Fatehpur Sikri and Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb.

Address: Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Tajganj, Agra.

Agra Fort

Agra Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Agra, offers a captivating experience. This ancient red sandstone fortress served as the imperial city for successive Mughal rulers.

Exploring Agra Fort is akin to wandering within a city itself. Jahangir Mahal, an astounding palace within the fort, harmoniously blends Hindu and Central Asian architectural elements. It boasts overhanging enclosed balconies and distinctive pointed arches. Inside, glimpse the opulent central court where royal women once resided.

The fort features other remarkable structures like Anguri Bagh, a courtyard with intricate garden outlines around water channels, Khas Mahal with its white marble and red sandstone pavilions, Musamman Burj, an octagonal tower adorned with marble inlay work, and Diwan-i-Khas, a hall housing black and white marble thrones.

A visit to Agra Fort demands several hours and serves as an excellent afternoon excursion following a morning at the Taj Mahal.

Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb

Nestled along the banks of the Yamuna River, Agra boasts another architectural gem: Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb. This mausoleum serves as the final resting place for Mirza Ghiyas Beg, a Persian official who served the Mughal Empire, and his wife.

Legend suggests that this jewel-like tomb served as the inspiration for the Taj Mahal, earning it the endearing moniker "Baby Taj." Composed of red sandstone and marble, the structure flaunts 13-meter-high hexagonal towers at each corner.

What truly sets this attraction apart is its pioneering use of pietra dura, an iconic Indian inlay technique employing semiprecious stones to craft intricate floral designs in marble. Visitors will marvel at the exquisite geometric patterns, depictions of vases and cups, and delicate floral arrangements adorning the entire structure – reminiscent of the Taj Mahal's opulence.

Despite its allure, Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb tends to draw fewer crowds than other Agra attractions, offering an ideal opportunity to savor its beauty in tranquility.

Address: Moti Bagh, Agra.

Mehtab Bagh

Mehtab Bagh, also known as the Moonlight Garden, offers an enchanting perspective of the Taj Mahal, seemingly extending its allure across the Yamuna River. Spanning 300 meters on each side, this square garden complex stands as the sole surviving park among a series of Mughal-built gardens in the vicinity.

With its vibrant flowering trees and shrubs, Mehtab Bagh has transformed from a mound of sand, reminiscent of its condition in the mid-1990s. The diligent efforts of the Archaeological Survey of India are evident in the ongoing restoration, including the reintroduction of Mughal-era plants, restoring the site to its former grandeur.

This landscape harmoniously complements the Taj Mahal's gardens, rendering it one of Agra's prime vantage points for witnessing the captivating structure, especially during sunset. Beyond the complex gates, you'll find local vendors offering Taj Mahal-themed souvenirs and keepsakes.

Address: Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Nagla Devjit, Agra.

Akbar's Mausoleum in Sikandra

Emperor Akbar the Great, renowned for his 50-year rule and the expansion of the Mughal kingdom across much of the northern Indian subcontinent, finds his eternal resting place in one of Agra's most esteemed tourist destinations, Akbar's Mausoleum.

This complex boasts a magnificent tomb constructed from sandstone and marble, adorned with intricate marble inlays in a spectrum of hues. Encircled by lush Mughal gardens, the grounds are inhabited by deer, antelope, monkeys, and the graceful presence of peacocks.

Notably, a visit to Akbar's Mausoleum reveals a divergence from the typical orientation of Mughal tombs, as this structure faces east, in contrast to the common alignment towards Mecca.

Address: Sikandra, Agra.

Fatehpur Sikri

A stone's throw from the Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri stands as a testament to Mughal grandeur. Founded by Emperor Akbar and influenced by the prophetic Sufi saint, Shaikh Salim Chishti, it once flourished but was eventually abandoned due to scarce water resources. Today, visitors can wander through this red sandstone city, discovering its well-preserved mosque, Jama Masjid, and the palaces representing Akbar's wives' diverse faiths. Notably, Hiran Minar, adorned with elephant tusks, is believed to be Akbar's favorite wildlife-watching spot. A visit to the nearby Archaeological Museum further unveils Mughal treasures, providing a deeper dive into the empire's rich legacy.

Address: Fatehpur Sikri, Agra.

Agra Bear Rescue Facility

In India, a complex relationship with animals unfolds, from sacred cows to creature-themed temples. However, some traditions have been far from compassionate, like the cruel practice of exploiting sloth bears for entertainment. For centuries, the Kalandar community poached bear cubs, subjected them to painful procedures, and forced them into agonizing "performances."

Despite India's ban on this cruelty in 1972, mistreatment persisted. Enter Wildlife SOS, a beacon of hope for these bears. At the Agra Bear Rescue Facility, approximately 130 rescued bears now roam freely, playing, foraging, and climbing trees. Guided tours provide insights into India's endangered wildlife and conservation efforts, contributing to the bears' rehabilitation.

Address: National Highway 2, Muranda, Agra, India.

Elephant Conservation and Care Center

Wildlife SOS doesn't limit its compassion to sloth bears; they also extend their care to abused elephants. Located just 30 kilometers from Agra, the Elephant Conservation and Care Center is a sanctuary where over 20 rescued elephants, formerly subjected to harsh conditions, find refuge.

Visitors on guided tours have the unique opportunity to observe these majestic creatures. Some fortunate tourists might even assist in preparing meals for these tusked giants. While India offers various chances to encounter elephants, a visit to this center stands out as one of the most ethical and rewarding ways to connect with these magnificent animals.

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

Agra's Old City

Agra's Old City offers an authentic glimpse into the lives of its present-day residents. Embark on a heritage walking tour through this neighborhood, a three-hour exploration that delves into Agra's architecture, history, culture, and street food. You'll witness the daily life of Agra locals, discover prime spots for Taj Mahal views, and visit the vibrant wholesale spice market, a sensory delight. Come with an appetite, as the tour guide will lead you to Agra's oldest sweet shop for delectable treats.

Gurudwara Guru ka Tal

Agra's surroundings are home to a devout Sikh community. Gurudwara Guru ka Tal, a spiritual center near Agra, attracts Sikh pilgrims. Dating back to the 17th century, this tranquil place boasts eight of its original dozen towers. Visitors can partake in free meals from the community kitchen, a perfect refueling stop before heading back to the city.

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

Kalakriti Cultural & Convention Center:

This center aims to deepen tourists' appreciation of Indian art and culture. Every evening at 6:30pm, it hosts "Mohabbat-the-Taj: The Saga of Love," a dramatic musical that brings the Taj Mahal's legendary love story to life through Bollywood-inspired dance and song. After the show, explore the center's handicrafts showroom, offering intricately designed marble inlay souvenirs and more.

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

Jama Masjid Agra

Agra's historic core houses one of India's largest mosques, the Jama Masjid, just across from Agra Fort. Built during the 17th century under Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan's rule, this striking red sandstone mosque stands on a platform. It features remarkable white marble inlay work, with blue-washed ceilings and walls. The interior showcases graceful inlaid panels similar to those at the Taj Mahal. While the Friday prayer service draws crowds, the mosque remains relatively empty outside of prayer times, and visitors are encouraged to observe silence.

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

Chini ka Rauza

After exploring Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb, take a short walk north to Chini ka Rauza, a funerary monument housing the tomb of Afzal Khan Shirazi, who served as the prime minister for Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. While not as well-preserved as other Agra attractions, this Indo-Persian structure is notable for being the first monument to feature chini, a distinctive decoration made from turquoise, yellow, green, and orange glazed tiles. Each tile was imported from China, a remarkable feat during the 17th century when this monument was constructed. Inside Chini ka Rauza, you'll find an array of detailed paintings and Islamic inscriptions.

Address: Katra Wazir Khan, Agra.