Traveling Through Agra: The City of Everlasting Monuments👇
Best places to visit in Agra, situated on the banks of the Yamuna River in Uttar Pradesh, is one of India’s most famous tourist destinations. Agra, renowned for its rich Mughal history, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and magnificent architecture, attracts millions of travelers every year from across the globe. The Taj Mahal in Agra is the crown jewel of Indian tourism, but this iconic city offers more than just a single monument. From the Agra Fort to Mehtab Bagh and Fatehpur Sikri, there are countless top-rated attractions in Agra to explore. Whether you’re on a heritage tour of North India or a quick weekend getaway from Delhi, this guide will take you through the must-see places in Agra for an unforgettable experience.
1. Taj Mahal(Best places to visit in Agra)👇
Location:
Located in Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Agra, and the Tajganj area, the Taj Mahal visiting hours are from 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM (closed on Fridays). Foreign visitors must pay ₹1100, while Indian nationals pay ₹50 as the Taj Mahal entry fee.
The Taj Mahal in Agra, more than just a monument, is a timeless symbol of love. Commissioned by Shah Jahan in memory of Mumtaz Mahal, this white marble masterpiece was completed in 1653. A blend of Persian, Islamic, and Indian architecture, its intricate inlay work, calligraphy, and symmetrical Mughal gardens make it one of India’s top historical places and a highlight of heritage tourism.
Visit at dawn for the most magical experience. Over the white marble, the first rays of light shine.
2. Agra Fort(Best places to visit in Agra)👇
Location:
Rakabganj, in Agra
Open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Indians pay ₹50 for admission, whereas foreigners pay ₹650.
The Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the main residence of Mughal emperors before the capital moved to Delhi. Built in 1565 by Akbar using red sandstone, it was later beautified by Shah Jahan with white marble. The fort houses key Mughal-era monuments like Diwan-i-Am, Diwan-i-Khas, Moti Masjid, and Musamman Burj, where Shah Jahan was imprisoned by Aurangzeb. A top tourist attraction in Agra, the fort showcases the grandeur of Mughal architecture and India’s rich political history.
A tour is recommended if you want to fully appreciate the historical context and architectural beauty.
3. Mehtab Bagh(Best places to visit in Agra)👇
Where: On the other side of the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal
Operating hours are from 6:00 AM until 6:00 PM.
Indians must pay ₹25 to enter, but foreigners must pay ₹300.
Mehtab Bagh, or the Moonlight Garden, is a charbagh-style Mughal garden across the Yamuna River, offering stunning sunset views of the Taj Mahal. Designed for symmetry and beauty, it’s a favorite spot for photographers, couples, and history lovers seeking peaceful surroundings and perfect Taj Mahal backdrops away from Agra’s crowds.
4. Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah(Best places to visit in Agra)👇
The Moti Bagh in Agra
Operating hours are from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Indians must pay ₹30 to enter, but foreigners must pay ₹310.
Known as the “Baby Taj,” this tomb was constructed before to the Taj Mahal and is considered to be an early model or duplicate of it. Built by Nur Jahan for her father, Mirza Ghiyas Beg, the tomb is famous for its intricate inlay and lattice screens. Besides, it is the first Mughal structure made entirely of white marble instead of red sandstone.
Usually less crowded, this beautiful tomb provides a calm and captivating experience.
5. Akbar’s Tomb (Sikandra Fort)👇
Place: Sikandra in Agra
Operating hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Foreign visitors must pay ₹310, while Indians must pay ₹30.
You can visit Akbar’s Tomb in Sikandra, just 10 km from the center of Agra, to witness a remarkable blend of Indo-Islamic architecture. The tomb combines Christian, Buddhist, Hindu, and Islamic design elements, showcasing Emperor Akbar’s secular vision. Lush Mughal gardens surround the tomb, and visitors often spot peacocks, deer, and monkeys roaming freely, adding to the charm. As one of the top historical sites near Agra, this family-friendly destination offers a perfect mix of cultural significance and natural beauty, making it an excellent choice for anyone exploring offbeat attractions in Agra.
A glimpse of the lesser-known facets of Mughal splendor can be seen in the tranquil, majestic tomb complex.
6. Fatehpur Sikri(Best places to visit in Agra)👇
Forty kilometers from Agra
Opening times: 6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Foreigners pay ₹550 to enter, while Indians pay ₹35.
The temporary capital of the Mughal Empire under Akbar was Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This spectacular ghost city, built of red sandstone, combines religious and imperial themes.
The tomb of the well-known Sufi saint Salim Chishti, Jama Masjid, Diwan-i-Khas, and the Buland Darwaza, one of the tallest gates in the world, are some of the primary attractions.
Suggestion: Take a day trip from Agra in addition to this for a more thorough historic experience.
7. Jama Masjid, Agra(Best places to visit in Agra)👇
Location: Across the street at Agra Fort Railway Station
Hours: 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 1:30 PM to 6:30 PM
No charge to enter
Shah Jahan built the Jama Masjid in Agra in 1648 as a tribute to his daughter, Jahanara Begum. As one of the largest mosques in India, this majestic structure showcases classic Mughal religious architecture with striking red sandstone and white marble patterns. Today, the Jama Masjid remains an active place of worship, drawing large crowds, especially on Fridays in Agra. Visitors admire its grand façade and spiritual ambiance, making it one of the top religious attractions in Agra and a must-see spot for those exploring historic Mughal monuments.
8. Chini Ka Rauza👇
Place: Etmadpur Road in Agra.
Hours: Free entrance from dawn to sunset
In 1635, artisans built this Persian-style mausoleum for the poet and Shah Jahan’s prime minister, Afzal Khan. Its unique glazed tile (chini) craftsmanship gives the monument both its name and fame. Although partially damaged, the mausoleum still preserves a distinctive Persian appearance. With few visitors around, it offers a peaceful and quiet atmosphere, making it a hidden gem worth exploring.
In the vicinity of Fatehpur Sikri
It is from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Admission fees vary; it is recommended to have a guided tour.
For anyone seeking a deep cultural immersion, a visit to Korai Village offers a window into rural Indian life. Learn about the Kalandar (monkey training) community, which has recently transitioned to ecotourism, and interact with the residents to learn about their traditions. It is an excellent way to experience the warmth and simplicity of country living.
10. Shopping in Agra(Best places to visit in Agra)👇
Along with its rich history, Agra is a popular place to buy, especially for leather goods, marble inlay work, and handicrafts. Here are a few places that you can go shopping:
- Sadar Bazaar👇 –
- For souvenirs, sweets (like petha), and leather goods.
- Kinari Bazaar👇 is a bustling marketplace including antiques, apparel, jewelry, and spices.
- For genuine marble items and contemporary retail therapy, visit TDI Mall and Subhash Emporium👇.
Food to Try in Agra(Best places to visit in Agra)
An excursion to Agra would not be complete without trying the local cuisine. Remember:
- Petha👇 –Both dry and syrupy varieties of this dessert are made from ash gourds..
- Bedai & Jalebi👇 – hot lentil-stuffed puris and jalebis dripping with syrup for a typical breakfast.
- Mughlai Dishes👇 –Try biryani, mutton korma, and creamy kebabs at eateries like Jahanpanah or Pinch of Spice.
Final Thoughts👇
Agra showcases timeless architecture, a rich Mughal legacy, and vibrant local culture, making it a must-visit destination in North India. Travelers can spend several days exploring the city’s top tourist attractions, but even a single glimpse of the Taj Mahal justifies the trip. Whether you’re passionate about historical monuments, fascinated by Mughal architecture, eager to taste authentic Agra street food, or simply curious about offbeat travel experiences, Agra offers something for everyone. This cultural hotspot in Uttar Pradesh continues to enchant both domestic and international visitors with its diverse appeal.
So pack your bags and charge your camera, and get ready to be transported back to the amazing Mughal era!
Photo gallery👇
