Agra - Discovering India

Travelling to Agra

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Agra, a pretty good destination in India (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Agra and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Agra, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through India, here's everything to know about Agra for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Agra

Agra is a city located in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh in India. It is famous for being the home of the iconic Taj Mahal, a white marble mausoleum built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Agra has a rich cultural heritage and is also home to other notable landmarks such as the Agra Fort, the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, and the Jama Masjid mosque. Agra has a hot semi-arid climate and is best visited during the winter months from November to February. The city is well-connected to other major cities in India by road, rail, and air and has several accommodation options ranging from budget to luxury hotels.

What to visit in Agra

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions in Agra, India and some information about them: 1. Taj Mahal: This iconic mausoleum was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. It is situated on the banks of the Yamuna river and is made entirely of white marble. It is considered one of the seven wonders of the world.
2. Agra Fort: Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Agra Fort was built in the 16th century by the Mughal Emperor Akbar. It is made of red sandstone and is famous for its intricate designs and architecture. The fort has four gates and is surrounded by a moat.
3. Fatehpur Sikri: Located around 40 km from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri was once the capital city of the Mughal Empire. The city was built by Emperor Akbar and was abandoned due to water shortage. It is famous for its large palace complex, which includes the Buland Darwaza and the Jama Masjid.
4. Itmad-Ud-Daulah's Tomb: This is a magnificent mausoleum located on the banks of the Yamuna river. It was built by Empress Nur Jehan in memory of her father, Itmad-Ud-Daulah. This tomb is often called the "Baby Taj" due to its resemblance to the Taj Mahal in style and design.
5. Mehtab Bagh: This is a beautiful garden located on the opposite side of the Yamuna river from the Taj Mahal. It is a great place to watch the sunset and to enjoy the stunning view of the Taj Mahal.
6. Akbar's Tomb: This is the tomb of the Mughal Emperor Akbar and is situated in Sikandra, around 10 km from Agra. It is a large complex that includes a mausoleum, a mosque and a garden.
7. Mariam's Tomb: This is another beautiful tomb located in Agra. It was built in memory of Mariam Zamani, the wife of Emperor Akbar.
These are some of the main tourist attractions in Agra. Each of them has a unique story and significance in Indian history and architecture.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in India, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Agra.

When to go on holiday to Agra

The best time to visit Agra is during the winter months from October to March. During these months, the weather is pleasant with mild temperatures, low humidity, and clear skies, making it ideal for sightseeing and exploring the various attractions in Agra, including the iconic Taj Mahal. However, it is important to note that this is high holiday season in Agra, so expect large crowds and higher prices. If you prefer to avoid crowds, it's best to visit during the shoulder seasons of September and April or during the low season of May to August, although temperatures can be quite hot during these months.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Agra

There are a few different ways to get to Agra, India, depending on your starting point and preferences.
By Air: Agra has a domestic airport, Kheria Airport. However, the airport does not have many flight options, and most flights arrive from Delhi or Varanasi. So, if you are coming from outside India, the most convenient option is to fly to either Delhi or Jaipur airport and then travel to Agra via road or rail.
By Train: Agra is well-connected by rail to other major Indian cities, including Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, and Kolkata. The city has four railway stations, and the most convenient one is Agra Cantt Railway Station, which is connected to almost every major Indian city.
By Road: Agra is well-connected to Delhi by road, and there are several state-run and private buses that operate between the two cities. You can also hire a taxi/car from Delhi to Agra. There are also interstate buses that operate from other cities like Jaipur.
I hope this information helps you to plan your trip to Agra!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Agra, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Agra

Here are some typical foods of Agra with a short description for each of them: 1. Petha: Petha is a famous sweet dish of Agra made from pumpkin, sugar, and water. It has a unique texture and is available in various flavors such as plain, kesar, and pineapple.
2. Bedhai and Jalebi: Bedhai is a type of stuffed bread made from flour, urad dal, and spices, while Jalebi is a popular sweet dish made by deep-frying dough in coil shapes and soaking them in syrup. This combination makes for a delicious breakfast in Agra.
3. Dalmoth: Agra is known for its spicy and crispy savory snack called Dalmoth. It is made from fried lentil balls mixed with nuts, spices, and other savories.
4. Kachori: Kachori is another popular snack in Agra, made from maida flour and stuffed with peas or lentils. It is served with tamarind or mint chutney.
5. Mughlai cuisine: Agra, being the city of the Taj Mahal, is famous for its Mughlai cuisine, which includes rich and flavorful dishes like chicken tikka, mutton korma, and biryani.
6. Chaat: Chaat is a popular street food in Agra, made from a combination of spicy potato patties, crispy fried dough, and various chutneys.
You can find general info about typical foods in India here.

Is Agra an expensive destination for tourists?

Agra is not considered an expensive destination for tourists in India. However, the cost of a trip to Agra can vary depending on factors such as the time of the year, the type of accommodation, mode of transport, and the activities you choose to do while there. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay entry fees to popular attractions like the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Akbar's Tomb. Accommodations can range from budget hotels to luxury resorts. The cost of food and transportation is also relatively affordable. All in all, Agra is a budget-friendly destination that can offer an amazing travel experience.

Where to find accomodation in Agra

The best areas to find accommodation in Agra are: 1) Taj Ganj: This area is located near the Taj Mahal, and most of the hotels and guest houses here offer stunning views of the monument. 2) Fatehabad Road: This area is also close to the Taj Mahal and has several mid-range and high-end hotels. 3) Agra Cantt: This area is close to the railway station and offers a range of budget accommodations. 4) Sikandra: This area is a bit far from the Taj Mahal, but has a few budget hotels and guest houses. 5) Sadar Bazaar: This area is in the heart of the city and has several budget accommodations and guest houses.
You can check hotel prices at Agra here:
Booking.com

Is Agra a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Agra is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, like with any city or tourist attraction, it is important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. As a tourist, it is important to be cautious of pickpocketing and scams. It is also recommended to avoid traveling alone at night and to stay in well-lit, heavily populated areas. Overall, if you take necessary precautions, Agra can be a safe and enjoyable destination for tourists.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in India here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Agra.

What type of travelers will enjoy Agra the most?

Agra is a great destination for all types of travelers, but its main attraction is the world-famous Taj Mahal, which is widely regarded as one of the most romantic and beautiful man-made wonders of the world. So, couples looking for a romantic getaway will particularly enjoy Agra.
However, Agra also has a rich cultural heritage and is home to several other historical monuments and landmarks, such as the Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, and Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb. Therefore, young people and families who are interested in history, culture and architecture will also have an amazing time here exploring the city's rich offerings.
Moreover, the food scene in Agra is also excellent, offering a variety of types of cuisine and eating experiences. So, foodies and those who love trying new foods will enjoy the local cuisine. Ultimately, Agra is a destination that offers something for everyone and is worth a visit.

How to get around Agra

The most common ways to move around Agra are by rickshaw, taxi, or private car. Taxis and private cars are the most comfortable and convenient, but also the most expensive options. Rickshaws are a popular choice for short distances and are affordable, but they can be uncomfortable in extreme weather conditions. There are also buses available, but they can be crowded and slow. It is important to negotiate the fare beforehand with any transportation option you choose.

What to see around Agra

Here are some recommendations for day trips from Agra: 1. Fatehpur Sikri - This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a deserted city built in the 16th century by Mughal Emperor Akbar. It's an hour drive from Agra and a must-visit for history and architecture lovers.
2. Mathura and Vrindavan - These two cities are considered sacred in Hinduism and are located about an hour and a half drive from Agra. They are known for their temples, especially the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple in Mathura.
3. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary - Located about two hours from Agra, this national park is a haven for birdwatchers. It's home to over 350 species of birds, including migratory birds that visit during the winter months.
4. Keoladeo National Park - Also known as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, this park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well. It's located about two and a half hours from Agra and is home to over 375 species of birds, including many endangered species.
5. Aligarh - This city is less than two hours from Agra and is home to the Aligarh Muslim University, one of the oldest educational institutions in the country. It's also known for its ornate tombs and mosques.
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