If you’ve always wanted to visit the Taj Mahal but were put off by the prospect, we’ve put together an Agra itinerary that will take you to the most iconic attractions to visit in Agra. Agra, with an area of 4,027 km2 and an elevation of 170 m, has established itself as a tourist destination, here is the Best Places to Visit in Agra.
The most common error visitors make when arranging a trip to Agra is to only visit the Taj. Yes, it is a huge landmark of the city, but there are plenty more monuments that would make an excellent pitstop. Spend the majority of your time admiring the Taj Mahal, but there are other sights nearby that you may easily visit during your two-day visit.
Taj Mahal, Agra
The Taj Mahal, located on the southern bank of the Yamuna River, rises like a dream from the foggy and frequently turbulent city of Agra. Completed in 1653, the Taj complex is not only a tribute to the beauty and ingenuity of bygone artists, but it also carries a heritage.
The complex witnessed 130 years of Mughal dominion. Take a walk through the complex if you wish to journey back in time and see what that era was like. Everything has been influenced by the Mughals’ unforgettable era, from the spectacular Mughal architecture to the cuisines sold outside the complex.
Naturally, you should begin your exploration of the city with the Taj Mahal. It is always best to visit this gorgeous mauseoleum early in the morning; the sunrise vista is well worth the effort. The complex opens even before the sun rises, allowing you to begin your tour early (and escape the crowds later in the day). It’s also one of the most gorgeous spots to see at night in Agra.
The entry fee is: 50 for Indians (usable for 3 hours, but not for mauseoleum access), 200 for foreigners (for mauseoleum entry), and 1250 for Indians.
Timing: 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes before sundown, Fridays closed
Accommodation: Budget hotels in Agra near the Taj Mahal are easily accessible.
Location: Tajganj Forest Colony
Distance: 6.2 km from Agra Railway Station
Mughal Gardens, Agra
After touring the minarets, tombs, and entire monument, you can sit in the Mughal Garden or simply wander around it. The idea of a Charbagh or a Mughal Garden encircling the Taj was inspired by Persian gardens and reflects the concept of a “Paradise Garden.” It not only adds to the overall attractiveness of the complex, but it also features a long avenue of trees put out according to their scientific names. On full moon evenings, the fountain in the centre of the garden mirrors the Taj Mahal, making it an even more surreal sight than it already is. One of the most gorgeous sites to visit is Mughal Gardens.
Fee for entry: 15 rupees for Indians and 200 rupees for visitors
Timing: Every day from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Location: Ram Bagh (Search for hotels around Rambagh)
Distance: 6.8 km from Agra Railway Station
Taj Museum, Agra
It will be afternoon by the time you soak in the beauty of the Taj and spend some time pondering life in the Mughal Gardens. Prepare for an informative tour of the Taj Museum and Gallery by eating some local cuisine. Mughal Gardens is also one of the top things to do in Agra in a single day.
The Taj Museum, located on the west side of the gardens, houses authentic Mughal miniature artworks, including original ivory portraits of Emperor Shah Jahan and his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Aside from these artworks, a visit to the museum will see gold and silver coins dating back to the Mughal dynasty. Take a look at the beautiful celadon plates. If the meal served in them was dangerous, these were reported to split in pieces or even change colour. Isn’t that a cool thing?
Fee for entry: Nil
Timing: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Fridays closed
Location: Tajganj Forest Colony
Distance : 6.1 km from Agra Railway Station
I’timd-ud-Daulah, or the ‘Baby Taj’ of Agra
The reason why the Tomb of Itimd-ud-Daulah is known as the Baby Taj is self-evident. Yes, it appears like a small Taj Mahal, but it has its own charm and beauty. The tomb of Mirza Ghiyas Beg, located on the eastern side of the Yamuna River, boasts magnificent architecture and beautifully carved jalis or window screens. It is one of the best sites in Agra near the Taj Mahal.
This was the first structure to be constructed entirely of marble stones, using pietra dura, and to make use of the famed pleasure gardens. After walking around the monument, you can go to explore Mehtab Bagh. All of these ancient landmarks offer an excellent itinerary for places to visit in Agra in one day.
Fee for entry: 10 for Indians, 100 for foreigners, and 25 for cameras
Timing: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Location: Moti Bagh is the location.
Distance: 9 km from Agra Railway Station
Mehtab Bagh, Agra
The Charbagh, also known as Mehtab Bagh, was erected by the strong ruler Babur centuries before the Taj Mahal. This must-see Agra attraction, located north of the Taj complex, is lush with greenery and affords an excellent perspective of the Taj Mahal.
This location, also known as the ‘Moonlight Garden,’ is ideal for catching a magnificent sunset and taking some Instagram-worthy photos. It is one of the top spots to visit in Agra for couples because of its picturesque splendour. Visitors frequently come to Mehtab Bagh to escape the city’s normal tourist congestion. The garden provides them with such solitude as well as much more.
Entry fee: The entry fee is $15 for Indians and $200 for foreigners.
Timings: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Location: Devjit Nagla Nagla
Distance :10 km from Agra Railway Station
It’s time to splurge on souvenirs.
After spending the entire day touring Agra’s top ten locations to visit, it’s time to go shopping in the city’s famous markets.
So, what makes Agra’s market unique? Handmade items and artwork! Agra may not be on the radar of fashionistas, but it is a haven for anyone wishing to add something unique and lovely to their wardrobe. Begin your shopping expedition at Sadar Bazaar, which is located immediately opposite to the Agra Cantonment railway station. You can readily find leather goods, handicrafts, and clothing here.
So, what makes Agra’s market unique? Handmade items and artwork! Agra may not be on the radar of fashionistas, but it is a haven for anyone wishing to add something unique and lovely to their wardrobe. Begin your shopping expedition at Sadar Bazaar, which is located immediately opposite to the Agra Cantonment railway station. You can readily find leather goods, handicrafts, and clothing here.
Always, and we repeat, always negotiate when shopping in Agra’s markets. Tuesdays are closed in this bazaar, so plan accordingly.
Day 2 of the Agra Tour:
Agra Fort (Agra’s Red Fort)
No trip to Agra is complete without a visit to the wonderfully beautiful Agra Fort. This fort, hailed as one of the best Mughal forts in Agra, is frequently overlooked by both tourists and tour guides.
Agra Fort is a close second to the iconic Taj Mahal on the list of attractions to visit in Agra in two days. So, for your second day, we recommend enjoying the red sandstone splendour of this fort as well as exploring nearby areas. Begin at the Agra Fort. Simply walking around the vast courtyards of this massive fort will reveal what a magnificent edifice it is.
Emperor Akbar’s grand aim was for the fort to serve as the Mughal Empire’s military base. And the fort certainly served its purpose. When Shah Jahan came to power, he altered the structure slightly by adding certain additions made of his favourite material – white marble.
This palace and fortification has hidden legacies, tales, and countless corridors that attract tourists. You may spend an entire day just absorbing in the splendour of this place, from Diwan-I-Am to Sheesh Mahal; it will not disappoint.
The fort is only 2.5 kilometres from the Taj Mahal and 5 km from the Agra Cantonment railway station. Make sure your Agra itinerary includes a visit to the Red Fort, because you wouldn’t want to miss out on seeing a UNESCO World Heritage site, would you?
Agra’s Jama Masjid is located just across from the Agra Fort. Visit this mosque before continuing on to Akbar’s Tomb, the following stop on your itinerary.
Entry Fee: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Timing: 20 minutes for Indians, 300 minutes for foreigners
Distance: 5.6 km from Agra Railway Station
Agra’s Akbar’s Tomb
The majestic Akbar’s tomb is around 15 kilometres from the Taj Mahal. Take some time to absorb in the legacy of one of the most prominent Mughal Emperors – Akbar – in Sikandra, the outskirts of Agra.
According to legend, Akbar himself commemorated the tomb’s construction because it was thought to be a continuing practise in which monarchs had to build their tombs during their lives. The entire edifice is built in red sandstone and should undoubtedly be a part of your tour, complete with minarets and inscriptions on the walls.
Timings: From sunrise to sunset
Fees for entry: 15 for Indians, 210 for foreigners
Location: Sikandra is the location.
Distance: 15.4 km from Agra Railway Station
Fort Complex of Fatehpur Sikri
A visit to the old walled city of Fatehpur Sikri is not complete without a stop in Agra. It is famous as Emperor Akbar’s political capital and is one of the best locations to visit in Agra, located about 40 kilometres from Agra.
By visiting Fatehpur Sikri, one can travel back in time to the reign of Akbar. Fatehpur Sikri Fort, like Agra Fort, is classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
Akbar first traveled to Sikri to meet Shaikh Salim Chishti, a Sufi mystic. He prophesied about the Mughal heir, and when the prophecy came true, Akbar decided to relocate his capital to Sikri.
The fort, like Akbar’s secular ideas and his notion to draw positives from many cultures and religions, reflects the same spirit. Take your time exploring each structure within the complex, which is a blend of Persian and Mughal architecture with hints of Hindu, Christian, and Jain culture.
The complex includes a stunning mosque as well as three palaces, one for each of his wives. You should not miss Jodha Bai’s Palace, Panch Mahal, and other noteworthy structures.
Timings: Sunrise to sunset; closed on Fridays.
Fees for entry: 40 for Indians, 550 for foreigners
Location: Buland Gate, Dadupura is the location.
Distance: 36.5 km from Agra Railway Station
Finally, if you plan to visit Agra, make it a day journey from Delhi rather than a weekend excursion. Take your time admiring the world-renowned Taj Mahal’s beauty, history, and architecture. Don’t overlook the other underappreciated but incredibly significant and gorgeous structures.
Jama Masjid, Agra
Jahanara, Shah Jahan’s daughter, erected this popular mosque. It is one of India’s largest mosques and is noted for its magnificent architecture. The tomb’s red sandstone architecture and elaborate embellishments will astound you. It is without a doubt one of the best.
Location: Subash Bazar and Kinari Bazar
Timings: 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Distance: 5.1 km from Agra Railway Station
Moti Masjid, Agra
Moti Masjid, also known as the Pearl Mosque, was erected in 1648 by Shah Jahan. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Agra. On white marble, the mosque has stunning decorations and the finest architecture. The mosque’s most spectacular feature is its location on a slope with numerous side arcades and arched recessions.
Location: Agra Fort is located on State Highway 62.
Timings: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Distance: 5.8 km from Agra Railway Station
Sikandra Fort
This beautiful fort is one of Agra’s most well-known attractions. It houses Akbar’s tomb and features eye-catching red sandstone gates and embellishments. The building of the fort is a flawless combination of Hindu and Islamic elements. Furthermore, the fort’s intricate stone carvings and exceptional craftsmanship will wow you.
Location: Sikandra, Tomb of Akbar the Great
Timings: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Distance: 13.2 km from Agra Railway Station
Agra Dolphin Water Park
Dolphin Water Park should be on your list of sites to see in Agra. It is the largest water park in North India and a popular tourist destination. It is home to an amusement park, a water park, and a fast-food outlet serving Indian and Chinese cuisine. Dolphin Water Park is without a doubt one of the nicest places to visit in Agra with children.
Location: Runkuta is located on NH-2, Mathura Road.
Timings: 11:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Fees for entry:
Adults (over 4 feet tall): INR 550
INR 400 for children (under 4 ft)
Activities include multilane water slides, wave pool, clusters, carousel caterpillar, merry go round, dolphin express – the kiddy’s train, and many more.
Distance: 27 km from Agra Railway Station
Agra Wildlife SOS Bear Sanctuary
This rescue and conservation institution is one of Agra’s most renowned tourist attractions. It strives to protect wildlife, including bears, elephants, leopards, reptiles, and other species. The Wildlife SOS personal two-hour guided excursion must be reserved in advance. This guided tour discusses the history of dancing bears, their conservation, and other topics.
Location: Inde, NH2, Murada are the locations.
Timings: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Distance: 36.2 km from Agra Railway Station
