Agra is known to be the home of the iconic monument – the Taj Mahal. But the city is so much more than just the home of a marvelous monument. You can always visit so many places in Agra whether gardens, parks, cafes, or other monumental places. Today, let’s dig into the other specialities of Agra that you can do or will enjoy visiting.
Here is the list of the top 10 places to visit in Agra.
- Taj Mahal
- Agra Fort
- Itmad-Ud-Daulah
- Akbar’s Tomb
- Fatehpur Sikri Fort
- Jama Masjid
- Mehtab Bagh
- Traditional Bazaars
- Taj Nature Walk
- Moti Masjid
Top Monuments to Visit in Agra
1. Taj Mahal – Most Visited Monument in Agra
The Taj Mahal is located on the Southern bank of the Yamuna River. It looks magically so beautiful that you’ll feel awestruck with its sight. The Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and was completed in 1653. This iconic monument is a testament to love, beauty, and brilliant architecture. Everything, including the exquisite Mughal architecture and the food served outside the complex, is influenced by the illustrious Mughal era. Visiting a beautiful mausoleum early in the morning when the golden sun’s rays enhance its beauty will be worth every effort.
Timings: Closed on Fridays; 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Tickets: Indians pay ₹45 and an additional ₹245 for mausoleum access.
Foreigners pay ₹1245 (with Mausoleum).
2. Agra Fort
The tour to Agra is incomplete without visiting the Agra Fort. This stunning fort has been modified several times. This red sandstone beauty offers long courtyards, beautiful gardens, a mirror palace, and more. There are even separate places for worshiping the Mughal emperor and common people. Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan modified the structure a bit by making some additions to his favorite material – white marble. You will witness the hidden gems inside the palace.
Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
Tickets: Indians pay ₹35 and foreigners pay ₹550
3. Itmad-Ud-Daulah
The Tomb of Itimād-ud-Daulah is known as Baby Taj. It resembles the Taj Mahal as it was said to be its true inspiration. However, it nonetheless exudes beauty and charm. The mausoleum of Mirza Ghiyas Beg is situated on the Yamuna River’s eastern bank. It features elaborately carved jalis, or window screens, and a magnificent architectural design. It is among the best locations in Agra to visit while you’re close to the Taj Mahal. This was the first building to employ the renowned pleasure gardens and be constructed completely of marble stones and pietra dura.
Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
Tickets: Indians pay ₹20 and foreigners pay ₹250
4. Akbar’s Tomb
Take some time to appreciate the legacy of one of the most significant Mughal rulers, Akbar, at this Sikandra location in the outskirts of Agra. According to legends, it was customary for emperors to build their graves during their lifetimes, therefore Akbar himself celebrated the tomb’s building. The full red sandstone building, with minarets and inscriptions on the walls, is worth seeing on your tour.
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
Tickets: Indians pay ₹20 and foreigners pay ₹250
5. Fatehpur Sikri Fort
One of the best locations to visit in Agra is around 40 kilometres away from the city and is well-known for being Emperor Akbar’s political capital. You may travel even further back in time to see the Akbar era at Fatehpur Sikri. Similar to Agra Fort, UNESCO has included Fatehpur Sikri Fort on its list of World Heritage Sites. The fort exhibits the same ethos as Akbar’s secular ideas and his notion to embrace the positive aspects of all civilizations and religions.
Explore each building inside the complex as it combines Mughal and Persian architectural styles with hints of Hindu, Christian, and Jain cultures. The complex features three palaces, one for each of his wives, and a stunning mosque. You shouldn’t miss the Panch Mahal, Hiran Minar, and Jodha Bai’s Palace, among other significant buildings.
Timings: Sunrise to sunset, Closed on Fridays
Tickets: ₹35 for Indians, ₹550 for Foreigners
6. Jama Masjid
The well-known mosque was constructed by Shah Jahan’s daughter, Jahanara. It is renowned for its exquisite architecture and is one of India’s largest mosques. You will be astounded by the tomb’s elaborate decorations and structure made of red sandstone. Without a doubt, it is among the greatest.
Timings: 7:00 am to 12:00 pm and 1:30 pm to 6:30 pm
Tickets: Entry is free.
7. Mehtab Bagh
The Charbagh, also known as Mehtab Bagh, was constructed by the strong monarch Babur long before the Taj Mahal came into being. This Agra must-see site, which is situated north of the Taj complex, is lush with vegetation and offers an ideal vantage point to see the Taj Mahal.
This location, also known as the “Moonlight Garden,” is the ideal spot to see a breathtaking sunset and take some visually appealing pictures. It’s among the top tourist destinations in Agra for couples because of its breathtaking scenery. Mehtab Bagh is a popular destination for tourists looking for a break from the city’s normal tourist population.
Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
Tickets: ₹20 for Indians and ₹250 for Foreigners
8. Moti Masjid
Moti Masjid, sometimes called the Pearl Mosque, was constructed in 1648 by Shah Jahan. It is among the most popular tourist destinations in Agra. The mosque features the best architecture and exquisite ornamentation made of white marble. The mosque’s most remarkable feature is its sloping layout, which has several side arcades and arched recessions.
Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
Tickets: Entry is Free
9. Traditional Bazaars
There are several markets that you will love to explore in Agra. From Sadar Bazaar to Kinari Bazaar, and many others. You can buy handicraft textiles, clothes, handmade marble art, and some beautiful souvenirs.
10. Taj Nature Walk
You can always explore the wild or find your tranquil peace by visiting the Taj Nature Walk. You can witness birds, and lots of flora, and your children can also enjoy kids’ rides.
Timings: From 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Wrap Up!
These top 10 places to visit in Agra are just the tip of the traveling iceberg. There is much more to this ‘City of Love.’ You will fall in love with these historical wonders, colorful bazaars, and a vibrant crowd. We hope you get the chance to savor the Mughlai cuisines, try different street foods, wear traditional dresses, click some beautiful snapshots, shop some souvenirs and more.