Agra

Written by Finn Weber, Karen Price, Rahul Sharma
11/08/2025
Stunning daytime view of the iconic Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Agra, India.
Arto Suraj, Pexels

Agra is a historic city in India, world-renowned for its Mughal architectural marvels, most notably the Taj Mahal. It is a key destination for those interested in India's rich imperial past and architectural heritage.

Specific areas for socializing with other tourists or backpackers are not widely highlighted in recent information; the focus tends to be on guided tours and monument visits.

Top 8 Things to do in Agra

Agra offers a captivating journey through Mughal architectural masterpieces, providing deep insights into India's rich imperial past and cultural heritage.

1. Visit the Taj Mahal at Sunrise

Witnessing the Taj Mahal as the sun rises is a truly breathtaking experience, casting a soft glow on the white marble. This iconic mausoleum, a symbol of eternal love, was built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Arriving early allows for better photo opportunities and fewer crowds. Spend a couple of hours walking around the beautifully maintained gardens and admiring the intricate artistry. The complex also houses a mosque and a museum.

Cost: Foreign tourists: INR 1100-1300 for general entry; an additional INR 200 is required to enter the main mausoleum. Children under 15 years old have free entry. Online booking may offer a discount of INR 50. Night view tickets cost INR 750 for foreigners.

Transport: Polluting vehicles are prohibited near the Taj Mahal. From the city center, electric buses or golf carts are available to take visitors to the entrance gates. Alternatively, a taxi or auto-rickshaw can drop you off at a designated parking area, from where you can walk or take an electric shuttle. The upcoming Agra Metro aims to provide seamless connectivity by 2025.

2. Explore Agra Fort

Step into the majestic Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a former imperial city of the Mughal emperors. This red sandstone fortress offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Mughal era, with its impressive palaces, audience halls (Diwan-i-Am and Diwan-i-Khas), and serene mosques. Take time to wander through its expansive grounds and admire the intricate Mughal architecture.

Cost: Foreign tourists: INR 650 (INR 600 on Fridays). Children below 15 years old have free entry. Tickets can be purchased online or at the entry gate.

Transport: Agra Fort is located about 2 kilometers from the Taj Mahal and can be reached by a short taxi or auto-rickshaw ride. Many visitors combine this with a Taj Mahal visit due to its proximity. Local buses also serve the area, with the main bus terminal located nearby.

3. Visit Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb (Baby Taj)

Discover the exquisite Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb, often referred to as the 'Baby Taj' due to its delicate marble lattice work and intricate pietra dura inlay, which served as a precursor to the Taj Mahal's design. This serene mausoleum was commissioned by Nur Jahan for her father and offers a peaceful alternative to the larger monuments, perfect for quiet contemplation and photography.

Cost: Foreign tourists: INR 310 (INR 300 on Fridays). Children under 15 years old have free entry. Online booking is an option.

Transport: The tomb is approximately a 10-15 minute drive from Agra Fort and the Taj Mahal. Taxis or auto-rickshaws are readily available, with a tuk-tuk ride from Agra Fort costing around INR 100-150.

4. Experience Sunset at Mehtab Bagh

Witness a captivating sunset view of the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh, the 'Moonlight Garden', situated directly across the Yamuna River. This Charbagh-style Mughal garden was strategically designed to align perfectly with the Taj Mahal, offering an ideal vantage point, especially during dusk. It provides a tranquil setting away from the monument's crowds.

Cost: Foreign tourists: INR 200-300. Children under 15 years old have free entry. Alternatively, it is possible to find free viewpoints of the Taj Mahal by walking further down the river to the right of the Mehtab Bagh entrance.

Transport: Mehtab Bagh is located on the opposite bank of the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal. A taxi or auto-rickshaw ride is necessary to reach this location.

5. Day Trip to Fatehpur Sikri

Embark on a day trip to Fatehpur Sikri, an abandoned 16th-century Mughal city that was once Emperor Akbar's capital. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a testament to Mughal architectural brilliance, featuring impressive red sandstone structures like the massive Buland Darwaza gate, Jama Masjid, and Jodha Bai's Palace. Its desertion due to water scarcity adds a unique historical narrative to the site.

Cost: Foreign tourists: INR 610 (INR 600 on Fridays). Children below 15 years old have free entry.

Transport: Fatehpur Sikri is located approximately 36 km from Agra city center. Hiring a taxi for a full day (around INR 1200-1500 for a non-AC/AC car) or joining an organized tour are common ways to visit. Be prepared for extensive walking within the complex.

6. Discover Akbar's Tomb (Sikandra)

Explore Akbar's Tomb in Sikandra, the grand mausoleum of Emperor Akbar. This peaceful and less crowded site showcases a unique blend of architectural styles, incorporating Hindu, Christian, Islamic, Buddhist, and Jain elements. It's a significant historical site that provides insight into the diverse cultural influences during Akbar's reign.

Cost: Foreign tourists: INR 310 (INR 300 on Fridays). Children under 15 years old have free entry.

Transport: Akbar's Tomb is located outside Agra city, in Sikandra. A taxi or auto-rickshaw ride is required, with an estimated cost of INR 250-350 for a one-way trip from the Tajganj area.

7. Savor Mughlai Cuisine and Local Sweets

Indulge in Agra's rich culinary heritage by sampling authentic Mughlai cuisine. This includes flavorful tandoori dishes and other meat preparations, reflecting the city's imperial past. A must-try local specialty is 'Petha,' a delicious pumpkin sweet, widely available across the city. Engaging in a street food tour can offer a deeper dive into local flavors and culture.

Cost: Costs vary significantly based on the restaurant or street food vendor. Food tours are an additional expense.

Transport: Local eateries and markets are generally accessible via auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, or on foot within the city center.

8. Shop for Handicrafts in Local Markets

Immerse yourself in the bustling local markets of Agra, such as Kinari Bazaar. Here, you can find a variety of handicrafts, marble inlay products (inspired by the Taj Mahal), leather goods, and traditional Indian textiles. Shopping in these vibrant markets offers a chance to take home a piece of Agra's artisanal heritage.

Cost: Varies based on purchases. Bargaining is common and expected in local markets.

Transport: Local markets are primarily located in the city center and are best explored on foot or by cycle-rickshaw for shorter distances. Auto-rickshaws are also widely available.

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