Agra, located in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, is a city of history, culture, and architectural brilliance.
Most famous for the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Agra is a must-visit destination for travellers. The city is steeped in Mughal history and showcases monumental structures that tell stories of a glorious past.
Whether you’re a history lover, an architecture enthusiast, or someone seeking authentic flavours, Agra offers an unforgettable experience. Let’s explore the best things to do, popular foods to try, and how to reach this majestic city.
Things to Do in Agra
1. Visit the Taj Mahal
No trip to Agra is complete without visiting the Taj Mahal. This white marble mausoleum, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, is a symbol of eternal love.
It’s not just a UNESCO World Heritage site but also an architectural marvel. The Taj Mahal’s symmetrical gardens, intricate carvings, and reflective pools make it one of the most photographed landmarks in the world.
It’s best to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and witness the beauty of the monument in the soft morning light.
2. Explore Agra Fort
Agra Fort is another stunning example of Mughal architecture. Built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century, this red sandstone fort has served as a royal residence.
It’s home to several magnificent structures, including the Jahangir Palace, Khas Mahal, and Diwan-i-Khas. The fort offers a fascinating glimpse into the opulence of the Mughal empire.
Don’t miss the view of the Taj Mahal from the fort’s Musamman Burj, where Shah Jahan is believed to have been imprisoned in his later years.
3. Visit Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri, located about 40 km from Agra, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once the capital of the Mughal Empire. Built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century, the city was abandoned due to water scarcity.
Today, its ruins stand as a testament to the grandeur of Mughal architecture. Key attractions include the Jama Masjid, Buland Darwaza, and the Tomb of Salim Chishti. The intricate carvings and stunning red sandstone buildings will leave you mesmerized.
4. Explore the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daula
Often referred to as the “Baby Taj,” the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daula stands as a beautiful marble mausoleum that Empress Nur Jahan built for her father.
Located on the banks of the Yamuna River, this tomb showcases intricate inlay work and stunning architecture. Although smaller than the Taj Mahal, it impresses with its delicate marble carvings and an enchanting garden.
The design of this tomb is considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal.
5. Shop at the Local Markets
Agra’s local markets are perfect for picking up souvenirs and handicrafts. Sadar Bazaar and Kinari Bazaar are popular shopping spots where you can find leather goods, carpets, jewellery, and traditional Mughal-inspired crafts.
Agra is also famous for its marble inlay work, so make sure to pick up some souvenirs crafted using this technique. Don’t forget to bargain for the best prices!
Must-Try Dishes in Agra
1. Petha
Petha is a sweet made from ash gourd, and Agra is famous for it. This translucent, sugary treat comes in different flavours, including plain, saffron, and rose. You can find it in almost every sweet shop in Agra.
The soft, chewy texture and mild sweetness make it a favourite among locals and tourists alike.
2. Mughlai Cuisine
Agra offers some of the best Mughlai cuisine, thanks to its rich history of Mughal rulers. Dishes like kebabs, biryanis, and parathas are a must-try.
Head to local eateries like the Tandoor Hut or the Shankar Kebab to indulge in juicy seekh kebabs, succulent tandoori chicken, and flavorful mutton curry. These dishes are cooked with aromatic spices and served with soft naan or roti.
3. Bedai and Jalebi
It is a traditional breakfast dish in Agra. Bedai is a deep-fried, spicy stuffed bread, often served with a tangy potato curry. The crispy bread paired with the sweet, sticky Jalebi makes for an irresistible combination.
This dish is available in many local food joints and is perfect for a hearty start to the day.
How to Reach Agra
1. Reach Agra by Flight
Agra has a small domestic airport, the Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport, located about 12 km from the city centre. However, the airport has limited connectivity.
For most travellers, the best option is to fly to Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, which is about 230 km away. From Delhi, you can take a taxi, bus, or train to reach Agra in a few hours.
2. Reach Agra by Train
Agra is well-connected by train to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur. The Agra Cantt. railway station is the primary station serving the city. Several trains run daily from Delhi to Agra, with travel times ranging from 2 to 3 hours.
Trains are a convenient and affordable option to reach Agra, with both luxury and regular trains available.
3. Reach Agra by Bus
Agra is easily accessible by bus from nearby cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Lucknow.
State-run and private buses operate regular services to Agra, with travel times ranging from 4 to 5 hours from Delhi. Buses are an affordable mode of travel, and several luxury bus services are also available for a comfortable journey.
