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14 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Agra

Written by Joni Sweet Updated Mar 22, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The Taj Mahal is an icon of India and one of the top tourist attractions in the world , drawing millions of visitors to the city of Agra every year. This breathtaking landmark is every bit as incredible as you've imagined. But while most travelers might be eager to escape Agra's pushy touts and exhausting crowds as soon as they've left the Taj Mahal, you should consider sticking around a bit longer.

The Taj Mahal is just one of many amazing places to visit in Agra. While here, you can explore the historically significant Agra Fort ; experience the impressively beautiful Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah ; see one of the largest mosques in India at Fatehpur Sikri; and find respite in Mehtab Bagh , a serene park in the shadows of the Taj.

Animal lovers, take note: Agra boasts two compassionate wildlife projects (the Agra Bear Rescue Facility and the Elephant Conservation and Care Center ) that welcome tourists to learn about some of India's most beloved creatures.

Don't let other tourists convince you there's nothing to see in Agra besides the Taj Mahal. Plan your trip to this heritage hot spot with our list of the top attractions in Agra.

1. Taj Mahal

2. agra fort, 3. itimad-ud-daulah's tomb, 4. mehtab bagh, 5. subhash emporium, 6. akbar's mausoleum, 7. fatehpur sikri, 8. agra bear rescue facility, 9. elephant conservation and care center, 10. agra's old city, 11. gurudwara guru ka tal, 12. kalakriti cultural & convention center, 13. jama masjid, 14. chini ka rauza, map of attractions & places to visit in agra.

You've seen it in history books, on postcards, and in social media posts. But now, you've made your way to India, and you finally have the chance to see this bucket list destination in real life.

The magnificent structure dates back to the 17th century. Mughal emperor Shah Jahan was heartbroken after his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, passed away during childbirth, and decided to pay tribute to her with a white mausoleum. Construction took more than 20 years to complete and required the manpower of around 20,000 laborers.

There's never a bad time to see the Taj Mahal, but it's worth getting here early–the building seems to radiate at sunrise. Tourists can enter the UNESCO World Heritage Site via the west and east gates. Once inside, explore the ornamental gardens, which feature calming water features that reflect the Taj. Then, head inside the Taj itself and admire its perfect symmetry and white marble with elaborate floral cavings and semiprecious stone inlays.

Sightseeing around the Taj Mahal complex continues at the Kau Ban Mosque , west of the Taj, and the Jawab , a building intended to mirror the mosque and preserve symmetry on the main structure's eastern side.

Hot tip: Hang on to your Taj Mahal ticket–it gives you same-day discounts on entry to other nearby attractions around India , including Fatehpur Sikri and Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb .

Address: Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Tajganj, Agra

Official site: https://www.tajmahal.gov.in/

The Taj Mahal isn't the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Agra–the city is also home to Agra Fort, a centuries-old red sandstone fortress that was once the imperial city for a succession of Mughal rulers.

Sightseeing here is like wandering around a city within a city. The most extraordinary building at Agra Fort is Jahangir Mahal , a massive palace that blends stunning Hindu-inspired features (like overhanging enclosed balconies) with Central Asian architectural elements (such as the signature pointed arches). Inside, tourists can see the gilded central court where royal women once passed their days.

Tourists can also check out a range of other noteworthy structures, including Anguri Bagh (a courtyard with puzzle piece-like outlines of gardens around water channels), Khas Mahal (a palace with pavilions made of white marble and red sandstone), Musamman Burj (an octagonal tower with intricate marble inlay work), and Diwan-i-Khas (a gathering hall featuring a pair of black and white marble thrones).

With so much to see, Agra Fort will require at least a few hours on your itinerary. It makes for a great afternoon stop after a morning at the Taj Mahal.

On the banks of the Yamuna River sits another one of Agra's exquisite structures: Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb. The mausoleum contains the remains of Mirza Ghiyas Beg, a Persian official who served the Mughal empire, as well as his wife.

Legend has it that this jewelry box-like tomb was actually the inspiration for the Taj Mahal , earning it the nickname "Baby Taj." The red sandstone and marble structure features 13-meter-high hexagonal towers on each corner.

The most noteworthy thing about this attraction, though, is that it was the first structure to use pietra dura , the iconic Indian inlay technique that uses semiprecious stones to create decorative floral designs in marble. You'll see exquisite geometric patterns, depictions of vases and cups, and delicate flower bouquets from floor to ceiling of the graceful structure–reminiscent of those on the Taj Mahal.

Despite its beauty, Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb gets far fewer visitors than other attractions around Agra, making it an ideal place to appreciate the lovely features without the crowds.

Address: Moti Bagh, Agra

The Taj Mahal almost seems to extend across the Yamuna River at Mehtab Bagh (Moonlight Garden), a square garden complex measuring 300 meters on each side. It's the only remaining park in a series of nearly a dozen Mughal-built gardens in the area.

The park has some pretty flowering trees and bushes–a stark improvement from its state in the mid-1990s, when the site was just a mound of sand. The Archeological Survey of India is hard at work restoring Mehtab Bagh and has already planted Mughal-era plants to help bring the site back to its original glory.

The landscape aligns perfectly with the gardens of the Taj, making it one of the best places in Agra to get a view (or a photo) of the stunning structure–especially at sunset. Outside of the gates to the complex, you can shop for Taj Mahal trinkets and other souvenirs from sellers in the area.

Address: Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Nagla Devjit, Agra

The graceful attractions around Agra will make any tourist fall in love with marble inlay. If you find yourself eager to take a piece of this craftsmanship home with you, head to Subhash Emporium. The boutique has a decades-strong reputation as the go-to place to shop for stone handicrafts in Agra.

Inside, you'll find tons of travel-friendly marble inlay souvenirs, like floral coaster sets, animal statuettes, small boxes, and candle holders. The store also sells larger items, like lamps, tabletops, and carved-marble trays, that it can ship directly to your home.

Even if you don't want to shop, it's worth swinging by Subhash Emporium for its captivating demonstrations –one of the top things to do in Agra. The experienced craftspeople here will show you the precise art of inlaying small pieces of polished stone into hard marble–which might make the high prices of these items seem slightly more reasonable.

Address: 18/1, Gwalior Road, Opp BSNL office, Shahzadi Mandi, Agra

Official site: http://www.marbleemporium.com

For nearly 50 years, emperor Akbar the Great ruled the Mughal kingdom, tripling its empire to include most of the northern half of the Indian subcontinent. His remains (along with those of two of his daughters) can be found at what is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in Agra, Akbar's Mausoleum.

The complex features a marvelous sandstone and marble tomb with striking marble inlay in a variety of colors. The structure is surrounded by Mughal gardens that are home to deer, antelope, monkeys, and even a few peacocks.

If you happen to travel with a compass, whip it out at this site. You'll notice that the tomb faces east–a contrast to nearly all other Mughal tombs, which point toward Mecca.

Address: Sikandra, Agra

Just an hour's drive from the Taj Mahal , Fatehpur Sikri makes for a worthwhile day trip from Agra. The city, once the capital of the Mughal Empire some 500 years ago, was built by Akbar as a salute to the famous Sufi saint, Shaikh Salim Chishti, who accurately predicted the birth of an heir. Residents abandoned the city not long after it was built, when water supplies ran too low.

Tourists can now explore the well-preserved remains of this red sandstone ghost town, still surrounded by a fortification wall. Check out the Jama Masjid , a mosque and one of the first buildings finished in the city. Then, explore the three palaces , built for each one of Akbar's wives. They combine a variety of religious-inspired architectural styles that honor the women's individual spiritualities.

Finally, get off the beaten path and stroll to Hiran Minar , a circular spiked tower covered with stone elephant tusks, atop which Akbar himself supposedly gazed at wildlife.

Dig in deeper to this incredible site with a visit to the Archaeological Museum , near the Diwan-i-Am main gate. It contains four galleries filled with treasures from the Mughal era and beyond, including grey ware pot shreds, terra-cotta lamps, mini human heads in stone, jewelry molds, and much more.

Between its reverence for cows and its temples dedicated to specific creatures, India has a fascinating relationship with animals. But not every tradition has been kind to four-legged creatures. Case in point: Dancing sloth bears.

For thousands of years, India's Kalandar community has poached sloth bear cubs, driven a red hot poker and coarse rope through their muzzles and yanked on the string to force them to put on painful "performances" for a paying audience. India prohibited the cruel practice in 1972. However, the mistreatment continued–leaving animal rights activists, such as Wildlife SOS , to save the victimized bears.

You can see around 130 of these rescued dancing bears playing, foraging, and climbing trees at Agra Bear Rescue Facility. Visits to the center include a tour guided by an expert who can shed light on India's vanishing wildlife and conservation efforts. It's an insightful experience, and all proceeds go toward rehabilitation efforts.

Address: Inde, National Highway 2, Muranda, Agra

Official site: https://wildlifesos.org/locations/agra-bear-rescue-facility/

Sloth bears aren't the only focus for Wildlife SOS –the animal protection organization also takes care of abused elephants at a sanctuary just 30 kilometers outside of Agra. On tours of the facility, you can see more than 20 rescued elephants that were forced to work in harsh conditions. Lucky tourists may even be invited to help prepare lunch for the tusked mammals.

While you will definitely have other opportunities to interact with elephants on your trip to India, visiting the Elephant Conservation and Care Center is by far one of the most ethical (and fulfilling) ways to get up close to these special creatures.

Address: Near Sachdeva Institute of Technology Thurmura Ghari, NH2, Mathura

Official site: https://wildlifesos.org/locations/elephant-conservation-and-care-centre/

For an authentic look at the life of Agra's present-day residents, take a heritage walking tour around the Old City . The three-hour excursion teaches tourists about Agra's architecture, history, culture, and street food as they wander around the neighborhood.

You'll get the chance to see what everyday life is like for Agra locals, learn where to go for the best views of the Taj Mahal, and stop by the bustling wholesale spice market for an explosion of color and aroma. Come hungry–the tour guide will also take you to Agra's oldest sweet shop for some treats.

Mughals may have spread Islam throughout this part of India, but the region around Agra is also home to a devout Sikh community. Many of them make pilgrimages to Gurudwara Guru ka Tal, a spiritual center near Agra.

This peaceful place was built in the 17th century, and modern-day tourists can see the eight towers that remain of the structure's original dozen. Tourists can also enjoy free meals from the community kitchen–perfect for refueling before a trip back to the city.

Address: Chennai-Delhi Highway, Maharishi Puram Colony, Agra

Official site: http://www.gurdwaragurukataal.com/

The Kalakriti Cultural & Convention Center is on a mission to deepen tourists' appreciation of Indian art and culture. Every evening at 6:30pm, it puts on a performance of "Mohabbat-the-Taj: The Saga of Love," a dramatic musical that brings the legendary love story of the Taj Mahal to life. Expect Bollywood-inspired dance and song throughout the hour-long show. Afterward, head to the center's handicrafts showroom to shop for intricately designed marble inlay souvenirs and other treasures.

Address: 41/142, A/1 VIP Road-Taj Mahal Road, Fatehabad Road., Agra

One of India's largest mosques can be found in the historic core of Agra, just across from the Agra Fort . Still the city's principal mosque, the Jama Masjid was built during the 17th century under the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. The striking red sandstone structure stands atop a platform, and features remarkable white marble inlay with blue-washed ceilings and walls. Throughout the interior, tourists can see graceful inlaid panels similar to those at the Taj Mahal.

The Friday prayer service draws massive crowds to the Jama Masjid, but outside of that time, it's relatively empty. The mosque encourages tourists to observe silence when visiting this sacred place.

Address: Jama Masjid Road, Kinari Bazar, Hing ki Mandi, Mantola, Agra

After visiting Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb , head one kilometer north to see Chini ka Rauza, a funerary monument that houses the tomb of Afzal Khan Shirazi, who served as the prime minister for Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.

While not nearly as well preserved as other attractions in Agra, the Indo-Persian structure is noteworthy for being the first monument to feature chini, a distinctive decoration made from turquoise, yellow, green, and orange glazed tiles. As the name of the building suggests, each of its tiles were imported from China–an impressive feat during the 17th century, when this monument was constructed. Step inside Chini ka Rauza to see an array of detailed paintings and Islamic inscriptions.

After visiting the Chini ka Rauza, you can take a 10-minute walk south to see the ruins of the Tomb of Sultan Parwiz , who was the brother of Shah Jahan.

Address: Katra Wazir Khan, Agra

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Places to Visit in India: India is filled with incredible sights and cities and planning a trip here can be a bit daunting. If you are just getting started on your itinerary, have a look at our guide to the Top Attractions in India . Most visitors will transit through either Mumbai or Delhi , both of which are home to a long list of things to see and do.

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1. Taj Mahal

3 km from city center 1 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

One of the seven wonders of the world, Taj Mahal is located on the banks of River Yamuna in Agra . It was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial for his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It also houses the tomb of Shah Jahan himself. Constructed entirely out of white marble in the 17th century, Taj Mahal is one of the most beautiful monuments in the world. Every year visitors numbering more than the entire population of Agra pass through the magnificent gates to catch a glimpse of this breathtaking monument!

2. Agra Fort

1 km from city center 2 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Also known as Lal Qila, Fort Rouge or Red Fort of Agra, the Agra Fort is a UNESCO world heritage site. It is situated at a distance of about 2.5km northwest of the famous Taj Mahal. The construction of the massive fort of red sandstone by the banks of Yamuna river was started by emperor Akbar.

3. Taj Mahotsav

3 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Taj Mahotsav is an annual ten-day festival that takes place in Agra. The festival showcases an outstanding variety of art and craft, dance and cuisines of artisans from different regions of India. It is a paradise for food aficionados, children and the appreciators of folk culture.

4. Fatehpur Sikri

36 km from city center 4 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Located at a distance of 40km from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is a town in the Agra district and a famous tourist attraction. A city predominantly made of red sandstone, Fatehpur Sikri was founded in 1571 century by Mughal Emperor Akbar. It is essentially a fortified city built by the king and had been the capital of his Empire for fifteen years. Now a UNESCO world heritage site, it is home to Jodha Bai's Palace, Jama Mosque, Buland Darwaza, and Tomb of Salim Chisti among many other famous monuments. Derived from Arab and central Asian tent encampments, the Imperial Complex is a work of pavilions arranged in formal geometry on a piece of land. 

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5. itimad-ud-daulah's tomb.

3 km from city center 5 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

This tomb nestled on the bank of the river Yamuna was built by Queen Noor Jahan for her parents in the middle of the Persian Garden. It was constructed using yellow marble, with black and white marble inlay, and was hence called the Baby Taj.

6. Mehtab Bagh

3 km from city center 6 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Located just north to the glorious wonder called the Taj Mahal and overlooking the Agra Fort and Yamuna river on the opposite side, Mehtab Bagh is a rare retreat of natural bliss and one of the most scenic spots in Agra.

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7. Shopping in Agra

2 km from city center 7 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Various small shops in Agra sell handicrafts and stone products such as jewelry boxes, and plaques. Leather goods of good quality are also available in the markets. Most products have some dedication to the Taj Mahal.

8. Akbar's Tomb

7 km from city center 8 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

The Tomb of Akbar is an important and iconic Mughal architectural masterpiece, built in 1605 and 1613. It is located at Sikandra, in the suburbs of Agra, on the Mathura road (NH2), 8 km west of the city core. About a km away from the tomb, lies Mariam's Tomb, the tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani, wife of the Mughal Emperor Akbar and the mother of Jahangir.

9. Jama Masjid

1 km from city center 9 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

This relatively simple mosque built almost entirely in red sandstone was built by Jahanara, the daughter of Shah Jahan. Seen in itself, this is still an imposing piece of architecture and one of the largest mosques in the country. This is still used as the main mosque in the city.

10. Chini ka Rauza

4 km from city center 10 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Dedicated to the memory of the Prime Minister of the court, during the reign of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, Chini ka Rauza is a funerary monument situated on the eastern bank of the Yamuna river in Agra.

11. Jhangir Mahal

1 km from city center 11 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

The residential palace of Jahangir Mahal, stands tall in the Agra Fort complex. Built by Akbar, in the 17th Century, this Red Sandstone marvel is a multi-storeyed palace with a series of courtyards running from north to south, along the eastern fort wall. The palace is located north of Akbari Mahal, another important Mughal marvel that now breathes in its ruins and faces the river Jamuna. One of the most popular tourist places in Agra, the Jahangir Mahal served as a private residence to Akbar’s son and successor, Jahangir. The Jahangir Mahal is one of the first buildings you would come across when you enter Agra through the Amar Singh Gate.

12. Dolphin Water Park

15 km from city center 12 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Inaugurated in 2002, Dolphin World Water Park is spread over an area of 14 acres and is replete with thrilling slides, roller coasters, water and regular rides etc. Besides, it has an amusement park, a play area for kids, locker room and other facilities.

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13. Anguri Bagh

1 km from city center 13 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Centrally situated in the premises of Khas Mahal, Anguri Bagh was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1637. As the name suggests, Khas Mahal (or Aramgah- i - Muqaddasa) was constructed for the emperor as his exalted place of leisure and rest.

14. Taj Museum

3 km from city center 14 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Located inside the Taj Mahal complex, the museum was established in 1982 on the western ends of the Taj Gardens. The tiny but terrific depository is a double-storeyed building with a quadrangle projection outside.

15. Kalakriti Dance Drama Show

5 km from city center 15 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Staging the popular play of Mohobbat-e-Taj, Kalkriti Culture and Convention Centre is a must-visit in Agra. This theatrical performance narrates the tale of the Taj Mahal's origin and is located close to the wonder of India.

16. Wildlife SOS

17 km from city center 16 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Wildlife SOS is a non-profit organisation in India that rescues and rehabilitates wild animals and forests. Its Agra Bear Rescue Facility is the largest sloth bear rescue facility in the world housing 130 sloth bears. The Elephant Care and Conservation Centre rescues and rehabilitates abused and captive elephants.

17. Mother Teresa's Missionaries Of Charity

0 km from city center 17 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Located on Ajmer Road in Agra, Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity works for the upbringing, well- being and education of the orphaned kids in addition to caring for the elderly and the homeless.

18. Friends Gokulam Fun City Water Park

15 km from city center 18 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

Friends Gokulam Fun City Water Park is the second largest water park in Agra. Spread over vast acres of land, the water park boasts of a number of slides, roller coasters and fun rides both for adults and kids.

19. Ram Barat

19 out of 19 Places To Visit in Agra

The Ram Barat is a joyous and one of the most important festivals in Northern India held in September every year. It celebrates the divine marriage ceremony of Lord Rama by taking out his marriage procession and carrying out all the ceremonies related to marriage.

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11 Places to Visit Around Agra Beyond the Taj Mahal

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Tourists usually prefer not to stay very long in Agra, as it's renowned for being a rather unappealing city with a lot of touts. However, there are quite a few worthwhile places to visit in Agra and around, apart from India's most famous monument -- the Taj Mahal. The many interesting remnants of the Mughal era (predating the Taj Mahal) will intrigue you and the crazy, congested bazaars of the Old City will captivate you. It's possible to experience village life and get close to nature as well. You may be surprised by what's on offer!

Plan your trip to Agra with this useful Taj Mahal and Agra travel guide.

This UNESCO Word Heritage site is one of the most robust and important Mughal forts in India. After arriving in Agra in 1558, Emperor Akbar extensively rebuilt the fort using red sandstone. The process took eight years and was completed in 1573. The fort retained its stature until Shah Jahan shifted the Mughal capital from Agra to Delhi in 1638. It lost much of its grandeur after his death in 1666, and during the 18th century was repetitively invaded and captured. Finally, it fell into the hands of the British in 1803. Although many of the buildings inside the fort have been destroyed, some mosques , public and private audience halls, fairy-tale palaces, towers, and courtyards still remain. Another attraction is the evening sound and light show that recreates the fort's history. If budget is a concern, it's advisable to skip the less-impressive Red Fort in Delhi in favor of Agra Fort. Read more about Agra fort and how to visit it.

Agra's Other Tombs

Agra has two significant tombs, with impressive Islamic-style architecture, that existed before the Taj Mahal but have subsequently been overshadowed by it. One of them contains the body of Emperor Akbar, widely considered to be the most influential Mughal emperor. It was completed in 1614 and is situated in Sikandra, on the northwest outskirts of Agra on the road to Mathura. (Tickets cost 300 rupees for foreigners and 25 rupees for Indians). His wife's body is housed in another tomb nearby, with a similar entrance fee.

The tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah was the first to be made out of white marble (instead of the red sandstone typical of Mughal architecture) and is often referred to as the "Baby Taj". It's located amid a small garden alongside the Yamuna River, and contains the body of Mirza Ghiyas Beg who served under Akbar. His daughter married Akbar's son, Jehangir, and he was later appointed chief minister. (Tickets cost 300 rupees for foreigners and 25 rupees for Indians).

Agra Magic conducts a half-day tour of the monuments.

Mehtab Bagh

Don’t want to pay the hefty admission fee or battle the crowds to visit the Taj Mahal? Or, simply want an alternative perspective of it? You can clearly see the Taj from across the river bank. One such place with a view to remember is Mehtab Bagh, the "Moonlight Garden". This 25 acre Mughal garden complex is situated directly opposite the monument and was actually built before the Taj, by Emperor Babur (the founder of the Mughal Empire). It fell into ruin but has been beautifully reconstructed. The entry cost is 300 rupees for foreigners and 25 rupees for Indians, and it's open until sunset.

Mughal Heritage Walk Through Kachhpura Village

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The Mughal Heritage Walk is a community-based tourism initiative that was started by CURE (Center for Urban and Regional Excellence) to help villagers make an income from tourism and improve their living conditions. This 1 kilometer (0.6 mile) walk is conducted by villagers who have been trained as tour guides. It takes place on the riverside opposite the Taj Mahal, goes through Kachhpura village, and ends at Mehtab Bagh. You'll get to visit a number of lesser-known monuments of the Mughal Era in a rural setting, interact with the village communities, and enjoy a fabulous view of the Taj Mahal as well. For more information and bookings, contact Radhey Mohan on 92594-82266 (cell).

Taj Nature Walk

Get away from the crowds and enjoy the Taj Mahal surrounded by nature. Less than 500 meters (0.3 miles) from the East Gate, on Fatehabad Road, there's a 70 hectare reserve forest that provides a unique opportunity to admire the monument in different hues and settings. You can wander through its paths to various viewpoints, watch towers, and rest areas. The reserve is open daily from sunrise until sunset. The entry fee is 100 rupees for foreigners and 20 rupees for Indians.

Sheroes Hangout

Tucked away between trinket shops opposite The Gateway Hotel on Fatehabad Road is groovy graffiti-filled cafe that's a must-visit in Agra.   The remarkable and inspiring Sheroes (She+Heroes) Hangout is completely staffed by women who are survivors of horrific acid attacks in India. It opened in December 2014 and was founded by a Delhi-based NGO called Stop Acid Attacks.  The idea is to raise awareness of this dreadful issue and give the women confidence to show their faces in public after being disfigured. As well as serving tasty food and beverages, the cafe has an ever-expanding library (so you can relax and read while you eat) and an exhibition space.

The Bazaars of the Old City

To experience the heart of Agra, head to the fascinating and congested Old City behind 17th century Jama Masjid mosque. There, you'll encounter a tangle of narrow lanes housing a startling variety of wares including spices, clothes, saris, jewelry, shoes, crafts and snack stalls. This area can be quite overwhelming if you don't know your way around. Hence, taking a guided walking tour is a good idea. It will also enable you to discover offbeat attractions such as the concealed Mankameshwar temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Options include this tour offered by Agra Magic and this tour offered by Wandertrails.

Agra Vegetable Market

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For a vibrant spectacle, get up early and head over to the wholesale vegetable market on Fatehabad Road. This energetic market, which takes place in a vacant lot, is a distribution hub for produce from all over India. Colorfully painted trucks bring in the produce and deposit it in piles, all arranged by type. Vendors sit surrounded by the tempting, edible displays. The market winds up by 9 a.m., so don't be late. You can also take this guided tour to visit vegetable markets in Agra.

Agra Bear Rescue Center

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Wildlife SOS operates the Agra Bear Rescue Center, which houses sloth bears that used to be held captive and forced to dance. The center is open every day from sunrise to sunset and is located on National Highway 19, inside Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary. It's about 50 minutes northwest of Agra on the way to Mathura. The entry cost, charged by the forest department, is 50 rupees for Indians and 500 rupees for foreigners. This enables visitors to access an enclosed viewing area and watch a short educational movie. However, if you want to get closer to the bears, you'll need to pay 1,500 rupees per person for a private guided tour. This must be booked in advance and is recommended. Otherwise, you may be disappointed with the lack of interaction. There are three tour slots per day: 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Wildlife SOS also has an Elephant Conservation and Care Center , about 15 minutes further along the highway towards Mathura, where you can spend time with rescued elephants.

Korai Village

On the way to Fatehpur Sikhri, drop into Korai Village rural tourism initiative. Korai is a tribal village, whose inhabitants were the keepers of dancing sloth bears. They've been struggling to earn an income and survive since the bears were taken away, as they were not provided with compensation. You'll be able to learn about and experience daily village life, and even meet the village magician, Mohammad. The cost to enter the village is $10 per person.

Fatehpur Sikri

Tuul & Bruno Morandi/Getty Images

Fatehpur Sikri is situated about an hour west of Agra and is a popular side trip, although touts and beggars have become a huge menace. This abandoned city was founded by Emperor Akbar in 1571, when he decided to move his capital there from Agra Fort, and is one of India's top historical destinations . Unfortunately, the capital was short-lived and relocated back to Agra. What remains is among the finest examples of Mughal architecture in India. Plan your trip with this Fatehpur Sikri travel guide.

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11 Must-See Places to Visit in Agra Beyond the Taj Mahal

There are so many stunning places to visit in Agra, India! From the iconic Taj Mahal to the majestic Agra Fort, the city is full of historical, incredible and fun things to do.

Agra is one of the most popular destinations for travelers in India. Most of all, because it is home to the Taj Mahal! It’s also near Delhi and Jaipur. Many people visit all 3 cities as part of the “Golden Triangle.”

Many of the iconic places to visit in Agra were built during the Mughal empire. There are many architectural marvels and absolutely beautiful sights to see. There’s so much history here!

This post covers the must-see places to visit in Agra for tourists. It features the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, famous gardens, popular shopping places, historical monuments and more!

I traveled to Agra for the first time in 2017 and was absolutely blown away. At the time, I had only ever heard of it because of the Taj Mahal. I traveled back since then and realized there are actually so many other amazing places to visit in Agra too!

This post is all about the best places to visit in Agra.

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Places to Visit in Agra

Since EVERYONE knows about the Taj Mahal, I wanted to share a list of the many other places to visit in Agra that are sometimes missed!

#1 Agra Fort

If you look for places to visit in Agra, the two absolute must-see spots are the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Agra Fort is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was similarly built during the Mughal Dynasty.

It’s a massive fort built out of sandstone which gives it a unique look with a red color. Before the capital was changed to Delhi, Agra was the capital and the fort was the main home for the Mughals. Agra Fort is really massive and you can spend a long time exploring inside.

Within the fort, there are a lot of different structures and areas that were used by the Mughals. It’s really fascinating to imagine what life was like for them when you see the different palaces and halls inside!

#2 Mehtab Bagh

The Mehtab Bagh is a restored garden complex situated directly across the river from the Taj Mahal. It’s really popular especially for photographers because it’s the perfect place to take incredible pictures of the Taj Mahal. The view is just absolutely amazing and it’s beautiful to see at sunset!

The Mehtab Bagh is also known as Moonlight Garden because of the views it offers and it’s a great way to enjoy the beauty of the Taj Mahal without all the crowd. Albeit, at a distance but it is also along the Yamuna River which is one of the most revered rivers in India!

Overall, the Mehtab Bagh is a great place to relax and enjoy the greenery. It’s full of various plants and flowers that were typical of Mughal gardens. You can enjoy relaxing or strolling around the gardens while taking in the views!

#3 Itmad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb

Itmad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb is another one of the most iconic places to visit in Agra. It’s known as the Baby Taj! It looks very similar with the architectural style and white marble, but it’s much smaller than the actual Taj Mahal.

The tomb is famous for its intricate carvings and details. It’s also from the 1600’s and is a tomb for Mirza Ghiyas Beg who was actually a Persian noble that migrated to India and became highly important in the Mughal court.

It’s a beautiful site to explore and doesn’t have the same crowds as the Taj Mahal. The architecture and murals are really beautiful and it’s really quite unbelievable that they could make these structures so long ago!

#4 Chini Ka Rauza

Chini Ka Rauza is another famous tomb in Agra. It’s the tomb of the old prime minister of the Mughal Emperor who was also a scholar and poet, Allama Afzal Khan Mullah. This isn’t one of the most well-known places to visit in Agra, but it’s a beautiful structure to visit if you’re there!

The tomb is most recognized for the glazed tile work that covers the outside. A lot of the tile work has faded or been lost over time, but there are still some sections which are there and it’s really beautiful! Back in the 1600’s when it was built, it would’ve been colorful with blue, green and yellow.

This architecture is a bit different from what you see at the Taj Mahal because it has Persian influence. So, it’s quite a unique spot to see! It could use some restoration but I’d still recommend it if you’re looking for things to see during your trip to Agra.

#5 Aram Bagh

The Aram Bagh is known as the oldest Mughal garden in India! It was built in the 1500’s and is a Persian-style garden. It’s a beautiful area along the Yamuna River and is the perfect place to relax or go for a stroll.

There are paths, fountains and areas to rest alongside the lush greenery and flowers in the garden. You can also see some old abandoned structures like the Battish Khamba and Battees Minar. They aren’t really well-kept but they are still interesting to see,

If you’re looking for some places to visit in Agra away from the tourist crowds, Aram Bagh doesn’t take much time and is a nice spot to check out!

#6 Kalakriti Cultural & Convention Center

This is a hidden GEM! It’s not popularly known as one of the best places to visit in Agra, but it is! My friend and I stumbled upon it when we were looking for things to do in Agra and they have an incredible show called “Mohabbat the Taj.”

I highly recommend people to check out this performance at the center! It’s a beautiful story about the history of the Taj Mahal and why it was built. The performers do an incredible job and it’s a fun way to spend the evening.

I didn’t know much about the Taj Mahal history when I went to Agra and this show was honestly how I learned so much! The theater itself is beautiful and you can wear headphones to hear the performance in English. Aside from the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, this is my top recommendation for things to do in Agra!

#7 Tomb of Akbar

The Tomb of Akbar is about 20-30 minutes drive from the main tourist attractions in Agra but is an interesting place to experience! Akbar the Great was one of the most renowned emperors of the Mughal Dynasty. There are many famous stories about him and his minister which are especially popular for children, known as Akbar and Birbal.

Akbar actually started constructing the tomb himself in the 1600’s, although his son would go on to complete it. It’s interesting because of the blend of religious and cultural traditions that are featured at the tomb, including Islamic, Hindu and Buddhist motifs.

The tomb is surrounded by beautiful gardens and it’s overall a really breathtaking place to see! While visiting the Tomb of Akbar, you can also check out the nearby tomb for his wife, Mariam-uz-Zamani.

#8 Tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani

Near Akbar’s tomb, you’ll find the Tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani. She was Akbar’s wife and the mother of Jahangir who is well-known and became the emperor after his father. She was also a princess from Rajasthan and overall, had a lot of influence during Akbar’s rule. Girl power!

Her tomb is also a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles. It’s relatively simple compared to many of the other Mughal tombs and could use some restoration, but it’s still very beautiful and I loved learning about her history!

The tomb is also surrounded by gardens. It’s a quick stop but worth it if you are going to visit Akbar’s tomb or be near that area in Sikandra!

#9 Sadar Bazaar

Who doesn’t love a little shopping! Sadar Bazaar is one of the most popular markets in Agra. It’s an area near Agra Cantt Railway Station and Mall Road, which is close to the main attractions of the city. It’s super lively and bustling which can be a little overwhelming, but that’s also how famous markets will be!

Sadar Bazaar is known for having all sorts of items including local handicrafts, marble textiles and garments. You can find a lot of marble designs which are similar to the Taj Mahal, so makes for a great souvenir! Agra is also famous for its leather industry and you can find some amazing leather goods for reasonable prices.

You will definitely need to be prepared to bargain! No matter where you travel in India, bargaining is the norm. Especially if you look like a foreigner, you’re likely going to get ripped off. It can be hard knowing what would be a good price, but as a general rule I try to bargain for 50% the price of whatever they ask and go from there. Kinari Bazaar and Subhash Bazaar are also popular markets to check out.

There’s also delicious cafes around Sadar Bazaar and the street food is amazing. You have to try the chaats! My favorite snacks are papdi chaat and dahi bhalla.

#10 The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception

The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is a lesser known spot to visit in Agra. If you’re interested in seeing and learning more about the Christian influence in Agra, it’s a nice and quick place to visit.

The cathedral is beautiful with a European style that’s different from the Mughal architecture you find in other parts of the city. It was built when the Portuguese and British were present in India. It has a serene atmosphere because it’s used regularly as a place of worship, but it’s also open for tourists to see inside and is very colorful!

This cathedral is one of the major points for Christians around the Agra region. They host a lot of events for the community throughout the year and it’s an especially popular place for people to come during Christmas and Easter.

#11 Wildlife SOS: Elephant Conservation and Care Center

Wildlife SOS is located about 45 minutes-1 hour from Agra by car. It’s a rescue center for elephants and they help rehabilitate elephants that were previously abused. This is a totally different place to visit than the usual sight-seeing spots in Agra, but it’s perfect for animal lovers or families!

The staff at Wildlife SOS really care deeply about the elephants and are super knowledgeable. They offer guided tours and will tell you different stories about the elephants there. It can be a bit disheartening to hear their stories, but also very inspiring to learn how they treat the elephants and the progress they make.

If you visit Wildlife SOS, you are bound to fall in love with the elephants there! They are super majestic animals and you feel really connected to them once you see them and learn about them. National Chambal Sanctuary is another spot in the opposite direction outside Agra that offers safaris and is great for wildlife and nature enthusiasts, families too.

The Taj Mahal

Apart from this list, I still want to say that obviously you HAVE to see the Taj Mahal in Agra. Not only is it the most popular of places to visit in Agra, it’s one of the most iconic spots in India. The Taj Mahal is absolutely stunning and breathtaking. It’s surrounded by beautiful gardens and there’s plenty of space to explore.

If you go during peak season like I did, expect long lines and a lot of people. Honestly if you can avoid the crowd then it’s better to go at a less busy time because it did impact the experience. They make Indians wait in line for hours to enter but expats can skip the line and go right to the front (I was literally so uncomfortable with this!)

Nonetheless, the Taj Mahal is famous worldwide and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built in the 1600’s during the Mughal empire for the emperor’s wife. The architecture, marble, and details make it truly remarkable!

This post was all about must-see places to visit in Agra.

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#1 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 6 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station, Taj Mahal, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, is located on the southern bank of the Yamuna River in Agra of Uttar Pradesh State. Taj Mahal was declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983 and it is also counted among the seven wonders of the modern world. It attracts around four million visitors annually. Taj Mahal is the face of Agra Tourism and among the must include place in your Golden Triangle tour packages . Taj Mahal was commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan (reigned 1628-1658), in the memory of his favorite wife Mumtaz Mahal. The construction of the monument was completed in 1653. The Taj Mahal was constructed under the supervision of architects Abdul-Karim Ma'mur Khan, Makramat Khan and Ustad Ahmad Lahauri. It took 21 years for the Taj Mahal to be constructed .....

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Agra Fort / Agra Red Fort

#2 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 4.5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 2.5 Km from Taj Mahal, The Agra Fort, also known as the Lal Qila or Red Fort, is situated on the banks of Yamuna River in Agra , It is among the prime places to visit in Agra City . Uttar Pradesh. The Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage and one of the best forts in India. Agra Fort was originally a brick fort known as Badalgarh, held by Raja Badal Singh, a Hindu Rajput king (1475 AD). Sikandar Lodi was the first Sultan of Delhi to shift his capital from Delhi to Agra. After Sikandar Lodi died in 1517, his son Ibrahim Lodi held the fort for 9 years until he was defeated and killed in the battle of Panipat in 1526. Several palaces, wells and a mosque were built in the fort during the Lodi period. After the First Battle of Panipat in 1526, the victorious Babur stayed in the fort, in the palace .....

Tomb Of Itimad-ud-Daulah / Baby Taj

#3 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 8 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 3 km from Agra Fort, Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah is a Mughal mausoleum located on the western bank of the Yamuna River near the Yamuna Bridge Railway Station in Agra. The tomb is also known as the Jewel Box or Baby Taj as it looks like a smaller version of the Taj Mahal. It is one of the popular Agra tourist places and also one of the top attractions you must include in Agra packages . It is believed that this tomb was the inspiration behind the construction of the Taj Mahal. Itimad-ud-Daulah is the first monument in India built entirely with marble. The tomb was built between 1622 and 1628 by the Queen of Jahangir, Nur Jahan as a memorial to her father, Mirza Ghiyas. Mirza Ghiyas was an imperial officer and bestowed with the title of Itmad-ud-Daulah (Pillar of State) by Emperor Jahangir. The .....

Akbar's Tomb - Sikandra

#4 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 9.5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station, Akbar's Tomb is located at Sikandra in the suburbs of Agra, on the Mathura road. It is among the top places to visit in Agra . The Tomb of Akbar is an important Mughal architectural masterpiece built in 1605-1613 in Sikandra. It houses the mortal remains of the greatest Mughal Emperor Akbar. The construction of this tomb was started in 1600 by Emperor Akbar himself. After the death of Akbar in 1605, the tomb was completed by his son Jahangir in 1613. However, during the reign of Aurangzeb Alamgir, Rebellious Jats under Raja Ram Jat, ransacked the intricate tomb, plundered and looted all the beautiful gold, jewels, silver and carpets. Extensive repairs were carried out by the British under Lord Curzon. The tomb of Akbar can be entered through an elegant southern gateway similar to Buland .....

Fatehpur Sikri

#5 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 37 km from Agra, 223 km from Delhi and 209 km from Jaipur, Fatehpur Sikri is a deserted fort city in the Agra District of Uttar Pradesh, India. UNESCO declared this complex as a World Heritage Site in 1986. It is one of the popular place to visit along with Golden Triangle tour and also among ideal weekend getaways from Delhi & Noida cities. Akbar, the greatest Mughal Emperor, was commissioned Fatehpur Sikri in 1569. The city was constructed to honour Sufi saint, Sheikh Salim Chisti, who used to live in a cavern on the ridge at Sikri. Akbar revered him very much as the Saint had blessed him with a son who was named Salim in 1569. Akbar shifted his capital from Agra to Sikri in 1571 and named the city as Fatehabad meaning victorious. This city served as the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1571 ..... Distance (From Agra Cantonment): 37 Kms Trip Duration (From Agra Cantonment - Including Travel): Half Day to Full Day .....

Jahangiri Mahal - Agra Fort

#6 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 4.5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 2.5 km from Taj Mahal, Jahangiri Mahal is the most noteworthy building inside the Agra Fort. Jahangiri Mahal is the first monument that comes in the view once visitors enter the fort from the Amar Singh Gate. Jahangiri Mahal was built by Akbar during 1565-69. This was the principal zenana, and was used mainly by the Rajput wives of Akbar. It is one of the earliest surviving buildings of Akbar's reign. Jahangir in his memories has clearly mentioned that the buildings were erected by his father Akbar. Mughal empress Nur Jahan used this as her residence. The palace is made of red sand stone and displays a generous blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles. Its outer walls rise with the massive ramparts of the fortress on the river. A gateway leads to an inner courtyard surrounded by large halls which are extensively adorned with Persian style stone carvings. .....

Khas Mahal - Agra Fort

#7 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 4.5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 2.5 km from Taj Mahal, Khas Mahal, also called Aramgah-i-Mualla (rest house of the noble) or Aramgah-i-Muqaddas, is situated inside the Agra Fort. Khas Mahal is the most beautiful building in the fort and was built by Shah Jahan during 1631-1640 AD. The building comprises open Terraces and a hall, flanked by a pavilion on either side serving as partitions. The structure is erected on a sufficiently elevated platform paved with marble. It is the royal palace of the Emperor. The palace includes curtain walls, elegant tanks, fountains and a waterfall surrounded by living apartments with courts and verandahs. The interiors of the palace are adorned with gold work, mural paintings, ornamental designs and floral designs. The pavilions of the Khas Mahal were constructed using red sandstone and coated with white shell plaster. They contained beautiful golden work and fresco .....

Diwan-i-Am - Agra Fort

#8 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 4.5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 2.5 km from Taj Mahal, the Diwan-i-Am or Hall of Audience is situated close to Machchhi Bhawan inside the Agra Fort. Diwan-i-Am was built by Shah Jahan during the years 1628-35 AD. It was the place where the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan (1628-1658) and his successors met general public and heard their complaints. The massive hall has a flat roof and is divided into three sections. Two arched red sandstone gateways on the north and south lead to the hall. The building, originally built in red sandstone, is plastered over with white shell paste resembling white marble. Its ceiling and columns were painted with gold. In the center of the eastern wall stands a marble canopy under which stood the emperor's throne. The emperor received the general public here and heard their complaints. This chamber was connected to the royal apartments and the royal ladies could watch the ceremonials of the Diwan-i-Am through the marble .....

Diwan-i-Khas - Agra Fort

#9 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 4.5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 2.5 km from Taj Mahal, the Diwan-i-Khas or Hall of Private Audience is situated backside of the Machchhi Bhawan inside the Agra Fort. Diwan-i-Khas or Hall of Private Audience was built by Shah Jahan in the year 1635 AD. It was used by the emperor for holding cultural events and meetings important guests such as kings, ambassadors and nobles in private and to deal with important affairs of the state. It consists of two large halls, an outer columned hall and inner closed hall, both connected by three archways. The outer hall is covered by a flat roof supported on multifoil arches springing from exquisitely fine marble pillars. The marble pillars are inlaid with semi-precious stones and coloured flower patterns. The hall is exquisitely decorated with carvings and flat wooden ceiling which used to be covered with gold and silver leaves to imitate the rays of the sun. The hall represents the royal accesses and thus .....

Moti Masjid / Pearl Mosque - Agra Fort

#10 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 4.5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 2.5 km from Taj Mahal, the Moti Masjid or the Pearl Mosque is situated to the north of Diwan-i-Am complex inside the Agra Fort. Moti Masjid was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan during 1648-54 AD. It was built as a place of worship for the royal members of the court. A mosque that shines like a pearl in a moonlit night, hence the name Pearl Mosque, Moti Masjid is one of the oldest mosques in the city. The glorious mosque took nearly four years to complete and is built in a style that is typical to Shah Jahan's era of reign. The masjid stands on the ground that slopes from east to west to the north of Diwan-i-Am complex. The structure contains three huge domes of high architecture value. These three Hindu style domed kiosks have been constructed using white marble and the rest of the exterior building made out of red sandstone. The mosque has twenty-one .....

Akbari Mahal - Agra Fort

#11 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 4.5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 2.5 km from Taj Mahal, Akbari Mahal or Akbar Palace is situated between Jahangiri Mahal and Bengali Burj inside the Agra Fort. Currently in partial ruined state, the Akbari Mahal is a testimony presenting the gigantic imperial courts that have the spacious chambers. Akbari Palace was once a huge palace complex which was used for residential purposes. Built between 1565-69, it had a large stone paved courtyard enclosed on all sides by suites and chambers. Only the river-side apartments have now survived. The Palace was designed and constructed in such a manner that whichever entrance the women used to enter the palace they were protected by purdah. The security and Purdah system was well designed in the palace. There was a great Assembly hall with a high ceiling on the lower storey, which can still be seen but the upper storey is completely in ruins. It also had a hall with triple opening on the riverside. Akbar's .....

Nagina Masjid - Agra Fort

#12 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 4.5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 2.5 km from Taj Mahal, Nagina Masjid is located beside the Diwan-i-Am inside the Agra Fort. It is also known as the Gem Mosque or Jewel Mosque. The Nagina Masjid was built during1631-40 by Shah Jahan for the ladies of the Royal family. This private mosque is constructed with pure white marble. The Masjid bears a very simple architecture and a descent decoration. This private mosque has special features of three majestic domes and wonderful arches. Nagina Masjid is enclosed by walls of three sides with a special a prayer chamber at the west. The mihrab pointing the direction of Holy Kabah is situated on the western wall of the prayer chamber. The prayer chamber is also made up of marble and has three domes on its top. The mosque has a three-arched facade with the cusps and supported on slender piers as its entrance. The arch in the middle is larger and has nine cusps and ones on the either sides have seven cusps .....

Macchi Bhawan - Agra Fort

#13 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 4.5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 2.5 km from Taj Mahal, the Macchi Bhawan or the Fish Mahal is located opposite to the Diwan-i-Khas in the Agra Fort. Macchi Bhawan is an official complex of double storied structure around a courtyard with arched galleries. Originally the court was adorned with marble tanks and fountains in which gold and silver fish were kept which provided amusement for Emperor. On the upper storey of the southern side, a small marble pavilion with a sun medallion on its ceiling projects outward. It is believed to be the place where the Golden Throne of the emperor was placed to allow him to have the entire view of the court below. The rooms of the lower floor served as the treasury. There was a raised white marble platform on the eastern side and a luxurious multi-chambered royal bath in the north. The southern pavilion served as a small reception room and has an open terrace with a white and a black marble throne. The black .....

Jama Masjid

#14 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 4.5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station, Jama Masjid is situated just opposite to the Agra Fort. It is also popularly known as the Jami Masjid or Friday Mosque and is one of the well known Agra tourist places . Jama Masjid was built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his favorite daughter Jahanara Begum's wish, at the cost of Rs 5 lakhs and took a period of 5 years in construction and was completed in 1649 AD. It is one of the largest mosques in India. The red sandstone structure was built in a typical Mughal style. It rests on a high plinth and is approached by staircase. It consists of a spacious elevated courtyard bordered by arched porticoes to the north and south, with a fountain at its centre. The eastern end was once also bordered by an arched portico and a grand entrance, but those were demolished by the British in 1857 while building the railway line to Agra. The prayer hall .....

#15 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 56 km from Agra, 159 km from Delhi, 419 km from Lucknow and 224 km from Jaipur, Mathura is an ancient city and also the district headquarters of Mathura in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Mathura is one of the popular tourist places near Agra and also one of the best places to visit near Delhi . Mathura is one of the seven cities (Sapta Puri) considered holy by Hindus, the other six are Ayodhya, Haridwar, Varanasi, Kanchipuram, Ujjain and Dwarka. Mathura has been chosen as one of the heritage cities for HRIDAY - Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana scheme of Government of India. Mathura is also one of the popular Delhi weekend getaways for 2 day trip. Mathura is located at the banks of river Yamuna and is popularly known as the Brajbhoomi, the sacred land of Lord Krishna. The Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi ..... Distance (From Agra): 56 Kms Trip Duration (From Agra - Including Travel): 1-2 Days .....

#16 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 13 km from Mathura, 70 km from Agra, 155 km from Delhi, 400 km from Lucknow and 235 km from Jaipur, Vrindavan is a holy town situated on the banks of Yamuna River in Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh. It is also among the sacred places to visit near Delhi for a 2 day weekend trip and also one of the popular places to visit near Agra . Vrindavan is a major pilgrimage center for the Hindus and one of the oldest cities in the country. The holy town of Vrindavan has a very rich history associated with the Hindu god Lord Krishna. It is said to be the place where Lord Krishna spent his childhood. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, a great devotee of Lord Krishna is credited with rediscovering of Vrindavan. The place was later developed by various kings of the region. The name Vrindavan is derived from the words vrinda ..... Distance (From Agra): 70 Kms Trip Duration (From Agra - Including Travel): 1-2 Days .....

Mariam-uz-Zamani Tomb

#17 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 11 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 1.5 km from Akbar's Tomb, The Tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani is the mausoleum of Jodha Bai, the Hindu consort of the Mughal Emperor Akbar, located on the left side of Agra-Mathura road, to the west of Akbar's tomb in Sikandra. The tomb was built by Jahangir in memory of his mother Mariam-uz-Zamani and was located near Akbar's Tomb as per the last wish expressed by her. The structure was originally a baradari under Sikander Lodi who built it in AD 1495. It was later modified into Mughals tomb by reconstructing the 4 facades of the building in Mughal style. The ground floor consists of around forty chambers built by Sikander Lodi, which bear faint traces of paintings on plastered walls. The centre of the ground floor houses the original cenotaph of Jodha. One can visit the crypt using red sandstone stairs. It was constructed with three tomb stones, the original one is in the ground floor, the middle and terrace stones .....

Chini Ka Rauza

#18 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 9 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 1 km from Itimad-ud-Daulah Tomb, Chini ka Rauza is a funerary monument located on the banks of the Yamuna River in Agra. Chini ka Rauza is the tomb of Afzal Khan who was a Persian poet during the reign of Jahangir. Later he became the wazir during Shah Jahan's reign. The tomb was built by him in 1635 AD. Khan died in Lahore in 1639 AD and was buried here at Agra. The name is derived from two Persian words Chini and Rauza that means glazed tiles tomb. Also known as Chinese Tomb, Chini-ka-Rauza is considered a milestone in Indo-Persian architecture, as it is the very first building in India that has been exclusively decorated by the glazed tile works. The decoration is prominent on facade and exteriors. Each side of this square tomb building is about 79 feet in length. The central chamber is octagonal in shape with eight arched recesses including four pentagonal arches and four square openings in all four directions. .....

Soami Bagh Temple / Radha Soami Samadhi

#19 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 9 km from Agra Cantonment railway Station, Soami Bagh Temple is situated in Dayalbagh in the outskirts of Agra. The Soami Bagh Samadhi is mainly the mausoleum of Huzur Swamiji Maharaj. The Soami Bagh is also called as Radha Swami Samadhi. He established the Radhaswami Faith. The Radha Soami Satsang Movement was started in 1861 as an effort to amalgamate all the world religions like Hinduism, Christianity, Sikhism and Buddhism and so this building reflects the styles seen in temples, mosques, gurudwaras and viharas. The building is 110 feet in height made of white marbles and features numerous pillars and fine pietradura inlay work on the inner walls. Construction began in February 1904 and has been continuously under construction for the past 100 years. Located adjacent to the mausoleum, there is Bhajan Ghar the place where, Soamiji Maharaj carried out the spiritual practices during his lifetime; the Bhajan Ghar also houses satsang once per day. Bhandara .....

Mehtab Bagh

#20 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 9.5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station, Mehtab Bagh is a charbagh complex situated north of the Taj Mahal complex and the Agra Fort on the other side of Yamuna River. The Mehtab Bagh garden was the last of eleven Mughal-built gardens along the Yamuna River; the first being Ram Bagh. The emperor Shah Jahan noted this crescent-shaped flood plain covered with grass around the Yamuna River and found it a great location to view the Taj Mahal from some distance. He then conceptualized it as a pleasure garden filled with moonlight and name it Mehtab Bagh during 1631 to 1635. Mehtab Bagh is a 25 acre garden, square in shape, measures about 300 x 300 m and is perfectly aligned with the Taj Mahal on the opposite bank. During the rainy season, the ground becomes partially flooded. The garden has fountains and pools along with several pavilions. Few of the gardens proportions were similar to that of the Taj Mahal. Mehtab Bagh came later in the possession of King of .....

Ram Bagh Garden

#21 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 9 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 3.5 km from Itimad-ud -Daulah, The Ram Bagh Garden is located near Chini ka Rauza in Agra. It is one of the famous places of sightseeing in Agra city. The Ram Bagh is the oldest Mughal Garden in India, originally built by the Mughal Emperor Babur in 1528. Babur was temporarily buried there before being shifted to Kabul. The original name of the bagh was Aram Bagh, which was changed to Ram Bagh under the Marathas, when they occupied Agra from 1775 to 1803 AD. The first historical mention of this garden as the Bagh-Nur-Afshan led some historians to believe that this name had been derived from a garden in Kabul. This garden was renovated by Jahangir between 1615 and 1619. The layout of this garden is based on the Persian style gardens. In the garden three levels have been maintained, one for flowers and vegetables, second for flower beds, with fine stone paved terraces and kiosk and the third one has structures, terraces .....

#22 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 6 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station, Taj Museum is one of the most popular museums in Agra and is located in the ground floor of western Naubat Khana, also known as Jal Mahal, with in the Taj Mahal complex. The museum was established in 1982. It is a double storied building having a quadrangle projection outside and is built on a raised platform. It is a big museum comprising of two floors and has three galleries along with a chief hall. The museum displays various exhibits relating mostly to the construction of the Taj Mahal and to the period of its builders. Totally 121 antiquities are on display, which are broadly categorized as Mughal miniature paintings, manuscripts, government decrees, specimen of calligraphy, arms, utensils, plans and drawings of Taj Complex, paintings, specimen inlay work, marble pillars, etc. In main hall the paintings of Shah Jahan and his favourite wife Mumtaz Mahal both on ivory, encased in ornamental wooden frame, replicas .....

Jaswant Singh Ki Chhatri

#23 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 9.5 km from Agra cantonment Railway Station and 4 km from Itimad-ud-Daulah, Jaswant Singh ki Chhatri is situated in Rajwara, Balkeshwar along the banks of river Yamuna in Agra. This is now maintained by Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Jaswant ki Chhatri is a domed pillared pavilion shaped cenotaph, which reflects Rajasthani architecture. It was built during 1644-58 AD and is said to be the only monument to have been built by a Hindu king in Agra during the Mughal era. The monument is dedicated to Rani Hada, who was the princess of Bundi in Rajasthan. She married Amar Singh Rathore, who was killed on 25th July, 1644 at Agra Fort. His body was given to widow Hada Rani who committed sati at the spot. Raja Jaswant Singh, younger brother of Amar Singh Rathore built this commemorative Chhatri. The Chhatri is a unique blend of Mughal & Hindu architecture. The surrounding wall is now in a dilapidated condition. However the monumental screen on the eastern side .....

Mankameshwar Temple

#24 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 5 km from Agra Cantonment Railway Station and 1 km from Agra Fort, Sri Mankameshwar Temple is an ancient temple located at Rawatpara near the Jama Masjid in Agra. Mankameshwar Temple is one among the ancient temples devoted to Lord Shiva. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that the Shiva Linga inside the Mankameshwar Temple was created by lord Shiva himself when lord Krishna was born in Mathura . Lord Shiva appeared in Mankameshwar Temple from Mount Kailash in order to visit the child form of Lord Krishna. Lord Shiva thought of creating a Linga here if Lord Krishna played in his lap. However, by watching lord Shiv's unique form, Yashoda asked him to stay away from her child as he would get scared of him. Observing this, lord Krishna played a drama and begun crying by pointing towards lord Shiva, who was residing under a Banyan tree. By seeing this act, Yashoda called lord Shiva and requested him to bless .....

#25 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 72 km from Agra, Bateshwar is very ancient temple town situated on the bank of River Yamuna in Uttar Pradesh. Bateshwar is an important spiritual and cultural centre for Hindus and Jains. The name Bateshwar is derived from the main Bateshwarnath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to mythology, here under a Banyan tree (Bat in Sanskrit), lord Shiva took rest for some time, hence the place came to be known as Bateshwar (banyan lord). It is known for the 101 Shiva temples situated on the banks of Yamuna and Shaouripur. In the epic Mahabharata Bateshwar is supposed to be referred as Shouripur, a city of king Suresaine. These temples were built by King Badan Singh Bhadoriya who said to have changed the flow of Yamuna River from east to west towards Bateshwar. The king also built a dam to protect these temples from the heavy water coming from river Yamuna. Bateshwar Nath temple finds its mention in the holy scripts of Ramayana, Mahabharata and Matsya Purana. .....

Keoladeo National Park / Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Near Fatehpur Sikri

#26 of 26 Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of 27 km from Fatehpur Sikri Railway Station and 58 km from Agra, the Keoladeo National Park formerly known as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is situated in Bharatpur, Rajasthan. It is among the top places to visit from Delhi and Agra cities. Keoladeo National Park is located around a man-made wetland and was created in18th century by Maharaja Suraj Mal of Bharatpur. Formerly the private duck shooting reserve of the Maharajas of Bharatpur and the British Officials, this site was established as a bird sanctuary on 13th March 1976 under the name of Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. Later on 10th March 1982, the site was designated as a national park and was named Keoladeo Ghana National Park. In 1985, the Park was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the finest bird parks in the world, Keoladeo, the name derives from an ancient Hindu temple, devoted to Lord Shiva, which stands at the center of the park. Ghana means ..... Distance (From Agra): 58 Kms Trip Duration (From Agra - Including Travel): 4 Hours/Half Day .....

Most Asked Questions on Agra

Agra can be vistited through the year, however, winter from September to February is the best season to visit Agra . It is also the busiest season and hotels are usually very expensive in this season.

Agra usually requires around 2 days to visit the most important attractions. There are several wonderful destintions around Agra like Jaipur, Delhi, Fatepur Sikri, Mathura, Vrindavan which can be visited by adding few additional days to the trip.

Budget of Agra trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Agra tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 5000 per person for a 2D/1N trip and from INR 7000 per person for 3D/2N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in Agra like Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Baby Taj, Fatepur Sikri, etc. Bharatpur Sanctuary can be visited by adding an additional day to the trip

Early morning or evening is the best time to visit Taj Mahal to experience the true beauty of the historical monument.

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Top 17 Places to Visit in Agra | Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri

Unveil the allure of Agra, where history and grandeur converge. Beyond the iconic Taj Mahal, our curated itinerary reveals captivating places to visit in Agra. Explore the UNESCO-listed Agra Fort, with its intricate designs and sprawling courtyards. 

Experience the serenity of Mehtab Bagh, offering panoramic views of the Taj Mahal. Marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship of Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, known as the “Baby Taj.” Immerse yourself in the vibrant bazaars, where local artisans showcase their skills. Indulge in the flavors of Mughlai cuisine, from aromatic biryanis to succulent kebabs.

Table of Contents

Top 17 Places to Visit in Agra 2023

Agra is a treasure trove of history, culture, and culinary delights. Let our expertly crafted itinerary guide you to the hidden gems beyond the Taj Mahal, creating memories to last a lifetime. Immerse yourself in the wonders of this incredible city, where every corner reveals a story waiting to be discovered.

1. Taj Mahal Agra

The Taj Mahal , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an architectural masterpiece located in Agra, India. Standing as a symbol of eternal love, this ivory-white marble mausoleum was built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

Its intricate carvings, stunning dome, and beautiful gardens mesmerize visitors from all over the world. The Taj Mahal showcases the brilliance of Mughal architecture and offers a glimpse into India’s rich history. Travelers are captivated by its ethereal beauty, making it a must-visit destination for romantics, history enthusiasts, and architecture lovers.

• Entry Fee: ₹50 for Indians (valid for 3 hours, not valid for mausoleum entry), ₹200 (for mausoleum entry) and ₹1250 for foreigners
• Timing: 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes before sunset, Closed on Fridays
• Accommodation: You can easily find budget hotels in Agra close to the monument.
• Location: Forest Colony, Tajganj
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 6.2 km

2. Agra Fort (Red Fort of Agra)

Agra Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Agra, is a magnificent red sandstone fortress that served as the residence of Mughal emperors. This grand structure showcases a blend of Islamic and Hindu architectural styles, with its elaborate palaces, courtyards, and intricate details. Exploring the fort’s impressive halls, such as the Diwan-i-Am and Diwan-i-Khas, transports visitors back in time to the era of Mughal opulence. Agra Fort’s historical significance, architectural splendor, and panoramic views of the Taj Mahal make it a must-see attraction for history buffs and culture seekers.

Tip: The Jama Masjid of Agra is just opposite of Agra Fort . Do visit this mosque before you leave for Akbar’s Tomb, the next place on your list.

• Entry Fee: 6 am – 6 pm
• Timing: ₹20 for Indians, ₹300 for Foreigners
• Accommodation: Hotels near Agra Fort
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 5.6 km

3. Fatehpur Sikri Agra

Fatehpur Sikri , a historic city near Agra, is a captivating UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once the capital of the Mughal Empire. Built by Emperor Akbar, this architectural marvel boasts stunning palaces, grand mosques, and intricately designed courtyards. The Buland Darwaza, the highest gateway in the world, is a testament to the city’s grandeur. Exploring Fatehpur Sikri allows travelers to immerse themselves in the Mughal era, marvel at its architectural brilliance, and experience the rich cultural heritage of India.

• Timings: Sunrise to sunset, Closed on Fridays
• Entry Fees: ₹40 for Indians, ₹550 for Foreigners  
• Accommodation: Hotels near Fatehpur Sikri Fort complex
• Location: Buland Gate, Dadupura
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 36.5 km

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4. Jama Masjid Agra

Jama Masjid, situated in the heart of Agra, is one of the largest and most magnificent mosques in India. Built in the 17th century by Emperor Shah Jahan, it showcases exquisite Mughal architecture with its intricate marble work, stunning domes, and beautiful calligraphy. Jama Masjid offers a serene atmosphere for prayer and reflection, attracting both devotees and architecture enthusiasts. Its historical significance, architectural grandeur, and peaceful ambiance make it a must-visit destination for those seeking spiritual solace and a deeper understanding of Islamic art and culture.

• Location: Subash Bazar, Kinari Bazar 
• Timing: 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM to 6:30 PM
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 5.1 km

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5. Mehtab Bagh Agra

Mehtab Bagh, also known as the Moonlight Garden, is a charming Mughal-era garden located across the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal. This picturesque site offers an enchanting view of the Taj Mahal during sunrise and sunset, providing an awe-inspiring backdrop for photographers and nature lovers. Mehtab Bagh’s serene ambiance, well-manicured lawns, and fragrant flowers create a peaceful oasis away from the bustling city. Visitors can stroll along the pathways, unwind amidst nature, and appreciate the sublime beauty of the Taj Mahal from a different perspective.

• Entry Fee: ₹15 for Indians & ₹200 for Foreigners
• Timing: 6 am – 6 pm
• Accommodation: Hotels near Mehtab Bagh
• Location: Nagla Devjit 
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 10 km

6. I’timād-ud-Daulah’s Tomb Agra

I’timād-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, also known as the Jewel Box or the Baby Taj, is a captivating Mughal mausoleum located on the eastern bank of the Yamuna River. Constructed in the 17th century, it is adorned with intricate marble lattice screens, delicately carved stone pillars, and beautiful Persian-inspired gardens. This architectural marvel is dedicated to Mirza Ghiyas Beg, the grandfather of Mumtaz Mahal. The tomb’s intimate setting, exquisite craftsmanship, and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a deeper appreciation of Mughal art and culture.

• Entry Fee: ₹10 for Indians, ₹110 for Foreigners & ₹25 for Camera
• Location: Moti Bagh
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 9 km

7. Chini Mahal Agra

Chini Mahal, also known as the Chinese Palace, is a captivating structure within the Agra Fort complex. This unique palace showcases the influence of Chinese art and ceramics on Mughal architecture.

The walls are adorned with stunning blue and white ceramic tiles, intricately depicting floral motifs, landscapes, and mythological scenes. Chini Mahal provides a fascinating insight into the cultural exchanges that occurred during the Mughal era. Visitors can marvel at the delicate craftsmanship, explore the various rooms, and appreciate the harmonious fusion of Chinese and Mughal aesthetics.

8. Ram Bagh Agra

Ram Bagh, also known as the Garden of Ram, is one of the oldest Mughal gardens in India. This lush green paradise, built by Emperor Babur, offers a serene retreat from the bustling city. The symmetrical layout, flowing water channels, and fragrant flowerbeds create a tranquil atmosphere.

Ram Bagh is famous for its ancient trees, including a 450-year-old banyan tree. Nature enthusiasts, history lovers, and those seeking a moment of tranquility will find solace in the beauty and historical significance of Ram Bagh.

• Entry Fee: ₹15 for Indians and ₹200 for foreigners
• Timing: 6 am to 6 pm everyday
• Location: Ram Bagh (Find hotels near Rambagh )
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 6.8 km

9. Moti Masjid Agra

Moti Masjid, also known as the Pearl Mosque, is a pristine white marble mosque located within the Agra Fort complex. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan, it is renowned for its elegant architecture and intricate marble work. The mosque’s serene atmosphere and beautiful prayer hall create a sense of peace and devotion. Moti Masjid’s exquisite craftsmanship, combined with its historical significance as a place of worship, make it a captivating destination for architecture enthusiasts and those seeking spiritual solace.

• Location: State Highway 62 Agra Fort
• Timing: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Accommodation: Hotels near Moti Masjid
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 5.8 km

10. Sheesh Mahal Agra

Sheesh Mahal, meaning the Palace of Mirrors, is a dazzling attraction within the Agra Fort complex. This opulent palace is adorned with intricate mirror work, reflecting and refracting light to create a mesmerizing effect. The Sheesh Mahal showcases the craftsmanship and artistic skills of the Mughal era.

Visitors are captivated by the play of light and the shimmering beauty of the mirrored walls and ceilings. Exploring this majestic palace offers a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the Mughal emperors and is a treat for those seeking awe-inspiring beauty.

11. Akbar’s Tomb Agra

Akbar’s Tomb, located in Sikandra, is a magnificent mausoleum dedicated to Emperor Akbar. This grand red sandstone structure is a blend of Islamic, Hindu, and Persian architectural styles. The tomb’s intricate carvings, impressive gateways, and spacious gardens make it an architectural marvel.

Exploring Akbar’s Tomb allows visitors to appreciate the grandeur of the Mughal era and pay homage to one of the greatest emperors in Indian history. The serene surroundings and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and admirers of Mughal architecture.

12. Mariam’s Tomb Agra

Mariam’s Tomb, situated in Sikandra, is a lesser-known architectural gem in Agra. Built in memory of Mariam Zamani, Emperor Akbar’s wife, this beautiful red sandstone mausoleum showcases a fusion of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles. The tomb’s intricate carvings, marble inlay work, and serene surroundings make it a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. Mariam’s Tomb offers a peaceful retreat where visitors can admire the craftsmanship, learn about the stories of the Mughal dynasty, and appreciate the cultural heritage of the region.

13. Sur Sarovar Agra

Sur Sarovar, also known as Keetham Lake, is a serene water body located on the outskirts of Agra. This vast lake is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, as it serves as a home to a wide variety of migratory and resident birds. Sur Sarovar’s tranquil atmosphere, lush green surroundings, and picturesque views make it an ideal spot for relaxation and bird-watching.

Visitors can enjoy boating, picnicking, and immersing themselves in the natural beauty of the lake, creating lasting memories amidst the serene ambiance.

14. Akbar’s Palace Agra

Akbar’s Palace, also known as the Red Fort, is a magnificent palace complex located in Agra. Built during the reign of Emperor Akbar, this sprawling structure showcases the grandeur and architectural brilliance of the Mughal Empire.

The palace’s impressive halls, intricate carvings, and ornate decorations transport visitors to a bygone era of opulence and power. Exploring Akbar’s Palace offers a glimpse into the lifestyle and cultural legacy of the Mughal emperors, making it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and those interested in experiencing the magnificence of Mughal architecture.

15. Taj Museum Agra

The Taj Museum is a small but fascinating museum located in the Taj Mahal complex in Agra, India. The museum houses a collection of artifacts related to the history and construction of the Taj Mahal, including architectural drawings, paintings, and Mughal weapons. One of the most interesting exhibits in the museum is a model of the Taj Mahal made entirely of marble.

The model is a scale replica of the real Taj Mahal, and it is incredibly detailed. Visitors can see the intricate carvings and the beautiful symmetry of the building. The Taj Museum is a great place to learn more about the history and construction of the Taj Mahal. It is also a beautiful place to visit, and the museum is located in a stunning setting.

• Entry Fee: Nil  
• Timing: 10 am – 5 pm, Closed on Fridays
• Location: Forest Colony, Tajganj 
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 6.1 km

17. Sikandra Fort Agra

Sikandra Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Sikandra, a suburb of Agra, India. It was the final resting place of the Mughal emperor Akbar, who ruled from 1556 to 1605. The fort is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture, and it is considered to be one of the finest examples of its kind in the world.

The fort is made of red sandstone and white marble, and it is surrounded by a large garden. The garden is divided into four quadrants, and each quadrant is filled with flowers, trees, and fountains. The fort itself is a square building with four minarets at each corner. The interior of the fort is decorated with intricate carvings and paintings. Sikandra Fort is a popular tourist destination, and it is one of the most visited sites in Agra. It is a must-see for anyone interested in Mughal history and architecture.

• Location: Tomb of Akbar the Great, Sikandra
• Location: Sikandra
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 13.2 km
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A complete agra travel guide: all you need to know before visiting in 2023.

• Post published: January 15, 2022
• Post category: India
• Post author: Charu Goyal

Agra is one of the most visited cities in India for a reason. Home to the iconic Taj Mahal , a magnificent wonder of the world, it is a former capital of India that welcomes millions of tourists every year, eager to visit the country’s most famous monument. Though there is plenty more to experience for those willing to stick around for more than a day.

Boasting a plethora of Mughal tombs and gardens, the historically rich city of Agra is an integral part of India’s Golden Triangle. With three UNESCO World Heritage Sites and dozens of lesser known landmarks under its belt, there is plenty to captivate visiting photographers, travellers and historians to this part of Uttar Pradesh.

So, if you are planning to visit Agra and are wondering what else is there to see beyond the Taj Mahal, then worry not. I spent four days there in October 2021, and am happy to share up-to-date information to help you plan your dream Agra trip. In this guide, you’ll find everything from where to stay to what to see in Agra and much more.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using any of those links, I may get a small commission. Thank you for your continued support!

Table of Contents

Where is Agra?

Located on the banks of Yamuna river, Agra is a city in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is approximately 210 km south of India’s capital city, New Delhi, and 240 km east of Jaipur in Rajasthan. If grouped together, these three cities make North India’s Golden triangle, the most popular tourist route in the country. 

If you only have a limited number of days to explore this region, then doing the Golden triangle circuit is a great way to get an insight into the world of maharajas and Mughal emperors. Travelling through these three neighbouring states, you will see some of India’s most beautiful architecture, and taste delectable cuisines. 

But should you have more time on hand, the heritage arc of Uttar Pradesh, including Agra, Lucknow, and Varanasi is also worth checking out. Lucknow is situated at a distance of around 335 km from Agra and has been on my bucket list since so long!

How to get to Agra?

Being one of the top bucket list destinations in India, Agra is well-connected to other Indian cities by an extensive rail and road network. There is also a domestic airport in Agra, but it is usually more convenient to fly to New Delhi or Jaipur due to more frequent flight options.

From those cities, you can take a taxi to Agra or hop on a train. Agra has several train stations, out of which Agra Cantonment (Agra Cantt) and Agra Fort are closer to the city centre. The Gatimaan Express from Hazrat Nizamuddin railway station in New Delhi only takes 1 hour and 40 minutes to reach Agra Cantonment. You can find more information about trains to Agra here .

Alternatively, you can also take your own car or book a private taxi and reach Agra at your convenience. The roads connecting Agra with both New Delhi and Jaipur are in good condition and the drive is pretty smooth and easy. Depending on how early you leave and the route taken, you can get from Jaipur to Agra in approximately four to six hours.

My friend and I booked a taxi from Savaari car rentals for this trip. They are an online cab aggregator in India that provides affordable chauffeur driven taxis in various cities across the country. Their expertise regarding road trips in India is really valuable, especially when going to off-beat places. I used their service to go from Kolkata to Odisha as well and loved that their quoted price includes tolls, state tax and GST so there are no surprises in the end. Check prices for their Jaipur to Agra cab here.

Although trains to Agra take less time to reach, it may make sense for you economically to book a taxi when travelling in a group. But if on a tighter budget, there are also frequent buses that go to Agra daily. You can check the timing and prices for buses to Agra on redBus .

CG’s tip: Almost all train and bus stations have taxi stands nearby. You can hail a ride to your accommodation from there or book a taxi online.

Best time to go?

Although the Taj Mahal looks marvelous throughout the year, the best time to visit Agra is during the winter months from October to February . Summer in North India is uncomfortably hot, followed by months of downpours that make it difficult to freely roam around and explore as desired.

Also keep in mind that during the winter season, the weather changes fast and can affect visibility to only a few meters at dawn. If you want clearer mornings and dreamy sunrises, then head to Agra either between October to mid-November or mid-February to early March. But, if you are looking to create moody pictures, then peak wintertime would be good as well.

I visited in the last week of October and had beautiful sunrises and sunsets throughout. There was a little fog by the Yamuna river during one sunrise towards the end of my trip, but it cleared quickly as I took hundreds of pictures of one of the seven wonders of the world sitting in front of me.

CG’s tip: Regardless of which month you plan to travel to Agra, just note that the Taj Mahal remains closed to the general public every Friday for religious reasons. However, all the other landmarks can still be accessed. 

How many days are enough?

Most travellers visiting Agra mainly come to see the Taj Mahal on a day trip from New Delhi. But, in my opinion, that is equivalent to barely scratching the surface. Not only does the Taj Mahal have a distinctive charm at different times of the day, there are also several viewpoints nearby that shouldn’t be missed to admire it from other perspectives.

Being a historically significant city during the Mughal era, there are also SO many other landmarks worth checking out in Agra that a few hours in the city can never be enough. If you are planning to see most of these sights, then spending 2-3 full days is highly recommended.

However, if you only have time for a day trip, then I recommend doing a guided tour from New Delhi to make the most of your time in Agra. This private one leaving at 2:30 am allows you to still catch the sunrise at Taj Mahal, followed by a delicious breakfast and a visit to Agra Fort. Alternatively, this one leaves a bit later and covers Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Baby Taj and a buffet lunch in Agra.

How to get around Agra?

I usually love walking and getting around a new city by foot, but if I am being completely honest, then Agra isn’t ideal for that. The roads are chaotic and if you are not staying super close to the Taj Mahal, then using a transport to go from one place to another is more feasible.

Depending on your budget, there are auto-rickshaws (tuk-tuks), taxis, and public transport available throughout Agra. Online cab aggregators like Uber and Ola work seamlessly too and cost almost the same as hailing an auto-rickshaw from the street for one-way rides. You can also hire the latter for approximately INR 800 for a day of exploring. Just remember to haggle if getting a rickshaw from the street.

CG’s tip: Between both the cab companies, I found Ola to be working more efficiently in Agra. I went out for sunrise every morning and Ola cabs would come in a couple of minutes even at 4 am. Uber sometimes took longer.

Where to stay in Agra?

From affordable guesthouses and hostels, to some of the most luxurious hotels in all of India, Agra has no dearth of places to stay. Irrespective of what your preferences, budget, and purpose of the trip may be, you can undoubtedly find an appropriate property to base yourself in, without a hassle.

I stayed at the ITC Mughal for the first three nights of the trip and then moved to The Oberoi Amarvilas for the last one to celebrate my birthday. ITC Mughal is for you if you are looking for a reasonably-priced luxury property that is on the top of their game when it comes to safety protocols for the pandemic. Their sanitization protocols impressed me exceedingly throughout the stay!

But, if you are in Agra for a special occasion, or just want to experience the best, then look no further than The Oberoi Amarvilas. Situated only 600 metres from the Taj Mahal, all rooms there provide an unobstructed view of the Taj (!) while the interiors pay homage to Mughal architectural elements. Pair this with delectable food, outstanding amenities and extremely warm staff and you will know why the property is so highly rated and loved. You can check hotel prices and availability in Agra here.

For those of you interested in low and mid-range accommodations, there are many options in Taj Ganj, Rakabganj and Fatehabad Road areas. Taj Ganj is super close to the Taj Mahal, but this neighbourhood can feel a bit unpleasant and congested. On the flip side, places like Hotel Kamal and Hotel Saniya Palace located there come with rooftop restaurants overlooking the Taj that make it better. 

Alternatively, Hostels like Moustache are always a popular and safe choice among backpackers.

Best places to see in Agra?

Agra has a wealth of incredible places to offer. From the world-famous Taj Mahal, to lesser known spots like Akbar’s Tomb at Sikandra, there are plenty of incredible monuments to entice both domestic and international travellers. Here are some sites that you should unquestionably add to your Agra itinerary:

Where do I even begin with this one? Built to immortalise the undying affection of a man for his wife, the Taj Mahal is an iconic symbol of love and India’s most recognisable monument. It was built in 1630 by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his third (and favourite) wife, Mumtaz Mahal who died giving birth to their 14 th child. 

Containing tombs of both Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan himself, Taj Mahal is an architectural masterpiece and a World Heritage Site. If you could only visit one place in India, then by all means, don’t even think twice before heading here. The monument’s perfect symmetry is so compelling that you have to see it in person to understand why it is often regarded as the most beautiful building in the world. 

Apart from the white marble mausoleum, the Taj Mahal complex also houses Taj Museum, Charbagh , a mosque, a reflective pool and a guesthouse. Most travellers visiting Taj Mahal stop at the reflecting pool at the front, trying to jolt each other for the iconic shot with the mausoleum. While it is a really picturesque spot, I would advise you to head to the mosque on the west and spend more time there instead. You’ll be surprised to see how less crowded it is!

Re ad More: Best Taj Mahal Viewpoints in Agra

There are three gates that visitors can usually use to enter the premises when visiting, but at present, the South gate is not functional . Between the other two, the West gate is the busiest as most tourists and tour guides tend to avoid the East gate due to the longer walking distance between the vehicle drop-off point and the main entrance. However, in my opinion, it is the best one to use as it is the least crowded.

CG’s tip: Sunrise is the most beautiful time to visit the Taj Mahal. The crowds are relatively smaller and you will get to admire the monument as it ethereally reveals itself through the morning mist. Try to reach 30 minutes before opening hour to ensure you are at the front of the queue in time for opening. If visiting on a day trip from Delhi, you can accordingly book a sunrise tour for the same.

Opening hours: 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes before sunset, every day except Friday. Taj Mahal is closed every Friday for religious reasons. There are also night viewings two days prior to the night of and the two days after the Full Moon, except during the month of Ramadan and on a Friday. Entrance fee: INR 45 for Indians and INR 1050 for Foreigners. Entrance to the mausoleum is an additional INR 200 for both.

Restored by Mughal Emperor Akbar, Agra Fort is the city’s second most impressive landmark and another World Heritage Site. It was primarily constructed as a military fortress in 1565, but was later transformed into a palace by Shah Jahan, who embellished it with white marble and precious stones during his reign. 

When visiting Agra Fort, make sure to take a moment to appreciate its impressive red sandstone wall that is nearly 22 m high in several parts. The interiors are equally stunning as well and there are also a few vantage points that provide an unobstructed view of the Taj. When Shah Jahan was overthrown and imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb, he spent eight years here gazing out at the river and admiring the Taj Mahal from a distance until his death.

Some of the places to not miss in Agra Fort are Jahangiri Mahal (Jahangir’s Palace), Khas Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of private audience), Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of public audience), Sheesh Mahal (Mirror palace), Musamman Burj, Moti Masjid (Pearl mosque) and Nagina Masjid (Gem mosque). The area is enormous and you’ll need a few hours to see it all. There is also a light and sound show here every evening.

CG’s tip: Agra Fort can get really crowded on Fridays due to Taj Mahal being closed. If you are in Agra for more days, then plan to visit here the same day as the Taj. Alternatively, you can go early morning and enjoy it while it is still quiet. Just avoid going near closing time as the guards tend to rush people out from beforehand.

Opening hours: Sunrise to sunset, every day. Entrance fee: INR 35 for Indians and INR 550 for Foreigners. Plus, a separate ticket for ADA Toll Tax upon arrival, which is INR 10 for Indians and INR 50 for foreigners.

Mehtab Bagh

Located directly across the Yamuna river from the Taj Mahal, Mehtab Bagh is a Mughal botanical garden that has one of the best viewpoints in Agra. If you are looking to get epic sunrise and sunset photos of the Taj Mahal without the crowd, then make sure to not skip this spot. The garden is perfectly aligned with the Taj and there are several photo points facing the monument.

Mehtab Bagh is also known as The Moonlight Garden and there is even a popular myth associated with this place. Legend says that Shah Jahan wanted to make an exact copy of the Taj Mahal for his own burial here, only with black marble instead of white. But the construction of Black Taj never took place as he was imprisoned by his son, who buried him next to Mumtaz Mahal inside the Taj Mahal itself. Whether this is true or just a myth remains unverified.

CG’s tip: Although Mehtab Bagh is just opposite the Taj Mahal on the other side of Yamuna river, getting there takes time. The garden is approximately 8 km from the Taj Mahal and you will need to hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi to get there. Nevertheless, the picture-perfect view of the Taj Mahal is worth it, especially at sunrise or sunset. 

Opening hours: Sunrise to sunset, every day. Entrance fee: INR 20 for Indians and INR 250 for Foreigners. No ADA Toll Tax is charged here.

Tomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah

Often known as the Baby Taj or the Bachcha Taj, the tomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah is another Mughal mausoleum in Agra. It was built by Empress Nur Jahan for her father Mirzā Ghiyās Beg, who was known by his title I’timād-ud-Daulah, meaning pillar of the state. Completed in 1628, this mausoleum was one of the first Mughal structures to have ever been built entirely in white marble.

This tomb is situated in the centre of a Charbagh, with four usual enclosing walls and side buildings made of red sandstone. Out of these, the pavilion on the western side beautifully overlooks the Yamuna river. But what sets I’timād-ud-Daulah’s tomb apart from other monuments is the beautiful floral patterns depicted by stone inlays and mosaic work. It even served as an inspiration for the Taj Mahal, which was built for Mirzā Ghiyās Beg’s granddaughter Mumtaz.

CG’s tip: Being a lesser known monument in Agra, the tomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah doesn’t see that many visitors throughout the day. I would suggest you to visit popular places in the morning and then visit here afterwards. Since it is located near Mehtab Bagh, you can easily club the two together too.

Opening hours: Sunrise to sunset, every day. Entrance fee: INR 20 for Indians and INR 250 for Foreigners. Plus, ADA Toll Tax of INR 5 for Indians and INR 10 for Foreigners upon arrival.

Chini ka Rauza

Situated just 1 km north of I’timād-ud-Daulah’s tomb, Chini ka Rauza is another funerary monument in Agra. It contains the tomb of Shukrullah Shirazi Afzal Khan ‘Allami’, a Persian scholar and poet, who later became the Prime Minister of Emperor Shah Jahan. It also has a large garden and nice riverside views.

If you like exploring lesser known places and are in the area anyway, then definitely make a pit stop here. The exterior of this monument is covered in glazed tile work, which is one of the reasons to admire it. The interiors, on the other hand, feature paintwork and inscriptions from the Quran, both of which seems to be depleting to an extent.

However, seeing the dome from inside is still pretty impressive. Just don’t head here with high expectations as the structure isn’t maintained like other popular places in Agra. Some of the tile work on the outside is either falling off or has lost its colour due to the weather. Hopefully it can be restored to its former glory someday!

Opening hours: Sunrise to sunset, every day. Entrance fee: Free.

Tomb of Akbar

Akbar’s tomb is another beautiful example of impressive Mughal architecture. It is a hidden gem that is the final resting place of Mughal Emperor Akbar. It is located in the town of Sikandra, about 40 minutes outside of the main city. Emperor Akbar planned and constructed most of the monument himself while he was still alive. But, it was completed by his son Jahangir, after his death.

The mausoleum itself is five stories tall and is made with red sandstone and white marble. It is surrounded by vast gardens, housing deer, monkeys, peacocks and other wildlife. If you love architecture and photography, then make sure to not give this picturesque sight a miss. The chhatri-topped minarets, painted interiors and detailed inlay work are really remarkable to see up close.

CG’s tip: Sikandra is en-route to Fatehpur Sikri from Agra. If you are planning to visit there, then you can make a stop at Akbar’s tomb on the way to save time. The tomb of Mariam Zamani, Akbar’s wife, is also situated close by in Sikandra itself. 

Tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani

Not too far from Akbar’s tomb lies another Mughal mausoleum in Sikandra. This is the final resting place of Emperor Akbar’s favourite wife, Mariam-uz-Zamani. It was built by their son Jahangir and is about a 5 minute driving distance from the tomb of Akbar. If you are travelling to Sikandra to see Akbar’s tomb, then you can make a stop here as well.

Mariam’s tomb was formerly an open baradari (pleasure pavilion) built by Sikander Lodhi in 1495 AD. The Mughals acquired it in the 17 th century and reconstructed the exterior walls by introducing red sandstone to the edifice. Similar to other Mughal sites in Agra, this mausoleum is also surrounded by lush gardens. However, there isn’t much else to see at the site.

Opening hours: Sunrise to sunset, every day. Entrance fee: INR 10 for Indians and INR 250 for Foreigners. ADA Toll Tax is not levied here.

Note: All the above-mentioned entrance fees are as per the online ticketing charges. The prices will be slightly higher if you purchase them via cash, when or if the ticket counters open up (more on this below). You can book online tickets to any of these on the official website here .

Taj Nature Walk

Located a few metres away from the East Gate entrance of Taj Mahal, it is a peaceful park providing walking trails and beautiful viewpoints. If you are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of Agra, then take a stroll through this 70 hectare green belt and enjoy glimpses of Taj Mahal every now and then.

Taj Nature Walk is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Including an array of birds, you can expect to come across peacocks, peahens, hyena, and more here. Some people also like to go here for a picnic, but in general, it is not a busy attraction. For the best experience, visit here in the morning or evening hours when the weather is pleasant.

CG’s tip: The entrance to Taj Nature Walk is on the Taj East Gate Road. You may be asked for an ID when visiting, so make sure to carry one with you. Taking a reusable water bottle is also recommended as there is no place to buy it once there.

Opening hours: Sunrise to sunset, every day. Entrance fee: INR 20 for Indians and INR 100 for Foreigners.

If you are in Agra for longer, then there are also some other landmarks that you can check out. Taj Mahal itself has plenty of viewpoints, especially for those willing to walk around the nearby areas in pursuit of different perspectives. My personal favourite is the chhatri situated close to Dussehra Ghat, and from the boat ride on Yamuna river. 

Agra also enjoys local markets which are an experience in themselves. If you don’t mind the constant honks, large crowds, haggling, etc., then visit the narrow lanes of Kinari Bazaar near the Taj Mahal. The enormous Jama Masjid is also located there. Sadar Bazaar is another famous market in Agra.

Day trips from Agra?

Even though there is a lot to see in Agra itself, there are also remarkable destinations outside it that you can explore when there. The roads are in good condition and you can easily do a day trip to see other gems of Uttar Pradesh. Here are some places that I would recommend checking out:

Fatehpur Sikri

Situated less than 40 km from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is a 16 th century city that was built predominantly in red sandstone by Emperor Akbar. It was founded as the capital of the Mughal Empire and later abandoned after just 15 years due to multiple reasons. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a must visit for every architecture lover.

Combining Hindu and Muslim elements, Fatehpur Sikri is one of the finest examples of Mughal architectural splendour. The city is surrounded by a large fortification wall and there are several entryways to access the premises. Known as the Gate of Magnificence, the Bhuland Darwaza at Fatehpur Sikri is the highest gateway in the world at a height of 54 metres.

Other must-see attractions at Fatehpur Sikri include The Jama Masjid, which is one of the most beautiful mosques in India. The Palace of Jodha Bai, Panch Mahal, Anup Talao, Diwan-I-Khaas, Diwan-I-Aam, and the Treasury are wonderful too. Just try to visit early in the day so you have enough time to go around and see everything at a relaxed pace. You will easily need a couple of hours here.

CG’s tip: Fatehpur Sikri is divided into two parts: the mosque, and the palace complex. Most taxi drivers will try to drop you close to Bhuland Darwaza, which is the entrance to the Jama Masjid. But, I suggest visiting the palace area first.

Bhuland Darwaza is surrounded by many hawkers, beggars and young children that roam around freely pretending to be guides harassing tourists in the name of charity. Just head to Diwan-I-Aam or Jodha Bai entry gates and visit there later to have a quick visit of the mosque. 

Opening hours: Sunrise to sunset, every day. Entrance fee: INR 35 for Indians and INR 550 for Foreigners. An additional ADA Toll Tax of INR 10 for Indians and INR 50 for Foreigners is also charged upon arrival. The Jama Masjid complex at Fatehpur Sikri can be visited free of cost.

Located about 25 km from Fatehpur Sikri lies Bharatpur. It is an Indian city in the state of Rajasthan that has an array of beautiful palaces, forts and temples to offer. I would typically suggest to stay here overnight to be able to explore it properly, but if you are short on time, then it can be a great addition to your Fatehpur Sikri day trip from Agra too. There are many tours that cover both places.

The most popular site to not miss in Bharatpur is the Keoladeo National Park, formerly known as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. It is a World Heritage Site where you can spot over 350 species of birds, especially during the winter season. The landscape is really beautiful and you can choose between covering the trails on foot, bikes or a cycle rickshaw. Boating is also available there.

CG’s tip: Bharatpur and Fatehpur Sikri both fall on the way on the Jaipur-Agra route. If you are travelling between Jaipur and Agra by road, then you can visit either of them or both, depending on how much time you have. For Keoladeo National Park, I would recommend having a few hours in hand.

Opening hours: Keoladeo National Park is open from 6:30 am to 5:00 pm in Winter and 6:00 am to 6:00 pm in Summer.  Entrance fee: INR 75 for Indians and INR 500 for Foreigners. Prices for vehicle hire at the Keoladeo National park are separate.

For those interested in spirituality and Hindu culture, the city of Mathura is another option for a day trip from Agra. It is located approximately 57 km from Agra and is popular for being the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Offering landmarks like sacred temples and serene ghats, Mathura is unlike most other cities in India.

Known as the holiest place in the city, the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple is one of the must visit sites in Mathura. There are large celebrations here during the festivals of Holi and Janmashtami. Other notable landmarks in Mathura are Vishram Ghat, Kusum Sarovar, Kans Qila, Jama Masjid, Krishna Balaram Mandir, Goverdhan Hill and more.

Your trip to Mathura can also be combined with a visit to its twin city of Vrindavan. The town of Deeg is also an easy drive from both Mathura and Bharatpur.

Located around 15 km from Mathura, Vrindavan is another holy city situated on the banks of the Yamuna river. It is a Hindu pilgrimage site that is known for being the city where Lord Krishna spent a considerable amount of his childhood. There are numerous temples dedicated to Lord Krishna in Vrindavan.

Shri Banke Bihari Mandir is one of the most popular temples to visit in Vrindavan. It is also the main centre of celebration of the Holi festival in Vrindavan, where events take place for a whole week. The shrine at Banke Bihari Mandir is one of the most admired in all of India.

Other places to see in Vrindavan include Prem Mandir, Govind Devji Temple, ISKCON Vrindavan, Radha Raman Temple, Nidhi Van, Keshi Ghat, and more. You can drive to Vrindavan yourself, use public transport or book a private guided tour. This one from Agra takes you to both Mathura and Vrindavan.

Where to eat in Agra?

Indian food is one of my all-time favourites, so I love travelling within India and tasting local delicacies of different regions. Here are some places that I would recommend for good vegetarian food in Agra:

Bellevue: Bellevue is an all-day dining restaurant at The Oberoi Amarvilas, serving Indian and International cuisines. It has both indoor and outdoor seating, where the latter overlooks the hotel’s beautiful, lush gardens and the pool area. From hand rolled pastas to chaat boxes containing mouth-watering street food, you can expect to find great quality no matter what you order. Their Thai Stir Fried Tofu and Vegetable Krapow were my personal favourite!

Esphahan: Esphahan is a speciality tandoor dining restaurant serving Mughal cuisine at The Oberoi Amarvilas. You can order Thalis or multiple course set menus here and enjoy a delicious dinner while listening to live music. My friend and I went with the traditional Indian Thali option and loved everything. The Dal Esphahani and Pistachio Kulfi were a delight!

Peshawri: Peshawri is another North Indian fine dining restaurant in Agra. It is located inside the ITC Mughal and serves dishes that are cooked in traditional clay pots or tandoors. Some of the dishes were not available during our visit as the restaurant had just re-opened that night itself, but we had Dal Bukhara, Kebabs and lots of butter Naan. Their bread was so good that I could eat just that on its own!

Sheroes Hangout: Sheroes Hangout in Agra is a café with a cause. It is a colourful place that is run by acid attack survivors who welcome customers with utmost love and big smiles. Their mission is to raise awareness about these attacks and empower other victims to continue living life in public. The menu at Sheroes Hangout doesn’t have any prices and customers are requested to pay what they deem right. Please remember to pay fair and support them in whatever way possible.

Other than these, we mostly ate our weight in breakfast buffets and decent looking all-day dining places close to where we were. If you happen to be in the Taj Ganj area, then you can also check out rooftop restaurants like Hotel Saniya Palace that are known for their view of the Taj Mahal. The food is mostly simple, but worth a visit for the viewpoint.

What to buy in Agra?

Agra is known for many things, out of which Petha is the most popular. It is an Indian soft candy made from white pumpkin. Most sweet shops in Agra sell Petha and there are often numerous flavours available. If you like sweets, then make sure to try this local delicacy or bring back some for your loved ones. You can get Petha near the Taj Mahal, at bus and train stations, and in local markets and speciality stores. 

Another souvenir that you can buy from Agra are marble replicas. From a Taj Mahal miniature to products like trays, vases, or boxes, you can find many items inlaid with semi-precious stones in ornate floral designs that are commonly found in Mughal architecture throughout Agra. There are many stores on Fatehabad Road that sell these.

Other products that Agra is known for are leather goods, silk sarees and textiles, rugs and carpets, handicrafts, and more. Have a stroll around Kinari Bazaar or Sadar Bazaar and you’ll probably find something interesting for yourself. Just note that Kinari Bazaar is closed every Tuesday. 

What to pack for Agra?

• A camera! Taj Mahal is one of the most photogenic sites in the world, so you would be crazy to travel to Agra and not capture it. Whether you are comfortable using a smartphone or a professional DSLR or mirrorless camera, make sure to take one with you and snap some pictures. I recently upgraded to a Sony mirrorless !
•  A wide angle lens . The monuments in Agra are designed in such a way that you’ll sometimes wish you had a wider lens to shoot the entire setting. Landmarks like Akbar’s Tomb are enormous in size, and if you want the iconic arch shot of the Taj Mahal then definitely carry this with you.
• A zoom lens may also be useful if you are looking to get some detailed shots while in Agra. It would particularly come handy in places like Mehtaab Bagh where Taj Mahal would be a little further.
• A hard drive because all those photos need to be stored somewhere now, don’t they? This may not apply to everyone, but I like to take a backup of my files every day and thus carry a hard drive on all my trips. Not only does it help to empty SD cards, but I honestly sleep better knowing my photos are safely backed up. This is the one I use.
• Weather appropriate clothing. The temperatures in Agra vary vastly between the different seasons, so make sure to bring suitable clothing for your trip. However, for women, I suggest leaving tanks behind and bringing light maxis or similar if travelling in summer. Agra is still a conservative city.
• If you are a female, then carrying a scarf to cover your bare shoulders when visiting masjids, temples and other religious sites is also a must. I personally take one or a light jacket with me on most trips around India as they can also be useful in crowded areas to avoid unnecessary attention.
• A travel plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, and M. If your devices are bought from outside India, then make sure to check this to have a seamless experience at your accommodation or check with your hotel for a spare. This one works in most places around the world.
• A portable charger. Since you are going to be out and about all the time and using your phone for photos, directions, restaurant reviews, you may run out of battery quickly. A portable charge ensures you always have a working device with you!
• Last but not the least, make sure to carry hand sanitizers and face masks . You can never have too much of these while travelling during these uncertain times.

Some things to know before visiting Agra

• Entrance tickets for all the monuments in and nearby Agra must now be purchased online. There used to be functioning ticket counters at all the touristic sites before the pandemic, but that isn’t the case anymore.
• You can now either buy your tickets for Agra monuments here before visiting or scan one of the QR codes displayed on the entrances and get an electronic ticket on the spot. However, sometimes the portal does not work efficiently due to poor connectivity so it is better to purchase from before with hotel WIFI.
• Should the ticket booths open again soon, remember that in person tickets are more expensive. If you purchase tickets to monuments in Agra online (either before visiting or paying by card on arrival), then automatic discounts are applied to the final price. The deductions are not huge, but do make a difference when visiting many places.
• On top of the entrance fee, the Agra Development Authority (ADA) also imposes a charge commonly known as ADA’s Pathkar or Toll Tax. It will already be included in the price of your Taj Mahal ticket, but you will be asked to pay it on top of your tickets at other landmarks. 
• All foreign citizens visiting other monuments in Agra on the same day as the Taj Mahal do not have to pay the ADA Toll Tax again (make sure to show your ticket for the same if asked). However, you will not be exempted from it the next day. The ADA doesn’t levy any Toll Tax on Fridays so you can visit then to save money.
• Some landmarks in Agra have a huge list of prohibited items that are strictly not allowed inside the premises. Before visiting any of these locations, make sure to check the list from beforehand to avoid wasting time in cloak rooms and security checks. For instance, visitors cannot carry any food, tobacco products, tripods, portable charges, pens, etc. inside the Taj Mahal.
• Know the best time to visit popular places. Being regarded as the most beautiful building in the world, it is safe to say that the Taj Mahal gets REALLY crowded even at sunrise. I, fortunately, got lucky as India was still closed to international tourists at the time of my visit, but try going as early as possible.
• Trust that the fog is real. If you are planning to visit Agra during the winter season in India, then expect that you may not be able to see the Taj Mahal clearly early in the morning. The visibility can get so low that you can stand just beneath it and still not be able to get a detailed glance!
• You may come across articles online that claim there is nothing else to see in Agra apart from the majestic Taj Mahal. But in reality, this couldn’t be further away from the truth. Give the city more than a few hours and explore some other incredible structures from the Mughal era to see what else it has to offer.
• There is also a lot of talk about Agra being a dirty and smelly place. Since this was only my first time properly seeing the city, I cannot argue if that is always incorrect, but I personally didn’t think the same was true from what I saw and experienced. Maybe it is due to the ongoing pandemic, or less number of daily visitors at the moment, but all the sights and areas I saw were clean.

Final Thoughts

That’s a wrap on a comprehensive Agra travel guide from me! I hope you found information in this blog post helpful in planning your trip to Agra, the home of the Taj Mahal. 

I tried to include everything I could think of, but if there is anything else I can help you out with, then please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. You can also DM me on Instagram or send an email. I love hearing from you and helping you plan your trips!

Happy Exploring, Charu xx

Want to keep reading? You may like “ Best Instagrammable Places in Jaipur ” and “ 11 Best Instagram Spots in Bikaner ” too.

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This Post Has 20 Comments

Charu, I love how beautiful your pictures are and how detailed the guides. I started following you on Instagram after coming across your Agra posts and have been waiting for this guide. Thank you for covering every topic that was needed so thoroughly!

Thank you so much for joining me here and on Instagram, Suman. I am glad that you came across my pictures from Agra, thanks for all your kind words 💖

Agra is incredible. I’m so glad I went before COVID. I hope to return one day. Thanks so much for the info. Your pictures are beautiful.

Thank you, Sharon. And yes, so good that you could visit India before the borders shut down. I hope that we can reopen properly soon and people can start returning!

I am blown away by your photos of these historic buildings.

The architecture in India is incredible, thank you Terri.

Beautiful photographs! I love the way the sun appears to set the marble on fire, Although when we visited at sunrise I looked half asleep. The nearby forts are equally magnificent. A really comprehensive post – so useful and visually appealing.

Me too! We were there for quite a few hours, so it was interesting to see how the marble changed colours under different lighting conditions. Our guide also made us observe some precious stones that illuminated due to the sun’s position, which was fascinating to say the least. Thank you for your kind words, Hels!

Your photos are so beautiful! Agra looks amazing to explore, thank you for this great detailed guide!

It really is, Lyne! Have you thought about visiting someday?

Your pictures are incredible!!! Lovely post, thanks for sharing all the details with us 🙂

Thank you for reading, Karla! I am glad you liked it 🙂

Your photos are absolutely stunning! And that architecture!! Thanks so much for sharing such an incredible destination!

Thank you, Kathryn! Agra is truly special.

Beautiful pictures! I visited the Taj Mahal a few years ago but I didn’t get a chance to go there at sunrise. I’d love to go back again some day!

You must. Although the Taj Mahal is beautiful at any time of the day, seeing it at sunrise is truly incomparable. I hope you get to experience that one day!

Wow loved the pictures..so amazing .i remember Visitng long back during childhood..need to visit again

Thank you, Madhu. And yes, you must!

I don’t even know where to start on saving all this info in my planner lol So helpful! Thank you 🙂

Just a side question, but your amazing dresses… do you wearing them out all day when traveling or change at the location before/after? Also, where do you buy your dress, they look so beautiful and flowy.

Hi Channy, I am so pleased to hear that you found this post helpful. I usually wear the dresses all day, but sometimes also change at the location or before/after if it involves a hike. Typically, I take most of my photos in the morning or during sunset so I may also change into something more comfortable for just roaming around the city when not shooting. Most of my outfits from this article are linked in my ‘Outfits’ Instagram Highlight but feel free to DM me for any links if you need.

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9 Best Tourist Places To Visit In Agra In One Day

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: August 3, 2023

Categories INDIA

Agra is home to the Majestic Taj Mahal but there is so much more to offer, so even if you are tight for time in Agra this is a great itinerary for the best places to visit in Agra in one day .

Table of Contents

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN AGRA IN ONE DAY

I’ve put together a list of the 9 best places to visit in Agra in one day. Obviously, you don’t need to do all of them but you can pick and choose which items on the list you want to add to your 1-day itinerary. Agra is pretty small so you should be able to see a lot. How much can you fit into one day in Agra?

TOP 3 HOTELS IN AGRA

• Ultimate Luxury: Oberoi Villa – 5-star & every single room has a view of the Taj Mahal
• My Favorite: Zostel Agra – Modern hostel with great vibes, near Taj Mahal
• Value Hotel : ITC Mughal Agra – Good value & gorgeous gardens with a beautiful pool

Visit the Taj Mahal for sunrise

Witnessing the Taj Mahal at sunrise is an experience of a lifetime, offering a mesmerizing view that truly encapsulates the monument’s ethereal beauty. As the first rays of the sun gently illuminate the ivory-white marble mausoleum, the entire complex appears to glow, changing hues from soft pink to a warm golden, giving a whole new dimension to its elegance.

The tranquility of the early morning, complemented by fewer crowds, allows visitors to soak in the magnificence of this architectural masterpiece at a leisurely pace. The reflections of the monument in the Yamuna river further enhance the surreal ambience. This iconic symbol of love, commissioned by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, truly comes alive in the golden light of dawn, making a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal an unforgettable experience.

If you don’t want to line up in the ridiculous lines you can buy a fast track ticket , which will give you express access into the Taj Mahal for just a few extra dollars on a guided tour. On hot days it would definitely be worth it!

Book your ticket now: Taj Mahal ‘Skip The Line’ Guided Tour

Luxury breakfast at the most expensive hotel in India: The Oberoi

After you have finished marveling at the Taj Mahal you will probably be hungry. It’s time to get well fed. Only two minutes walking from the Taj Mahal is the Oberoi Hotel .

The most expensive hotel in India has rooms starting at $541. However, the breakfast isn’t going to break the bank, in fact, it is probably cheaper than most you would have at home in Australia or the U.S.A.

A continental breakfast will set you back only $12 USD or the full gourmet buffet will be $35 USD. Expect them to break out the fancy cutlery, this joint doesn’t hold back with pools and fountains left, right and center.

Click Here to check availability a the Oberoi Hotel (Best hotel in Agra)

Oberoi Hotel

• Most expensive in India
• Incredible Gardens
• Great buffet breakfast

Visit the Agra Fort / Red Fort

The Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the city of Agra, is a monumental testament to the grandeur of the Mughal Empire. Built by Emperor Akbar in 1565, this sprawling red sandstone fortress stands as a symbol of power, resilience, and architectural brilliance. Its imposing double-wall fortifications, which rise over 20 meters in height, enclose a complex of exquisite buildings, including the Jahangiri Mahal, Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas, and Sheesh Mahal, among others. Each of these structures displays a blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles, featuring intricate carvings, domes, and sprawling courtyards.

The fort also offers a stunning view of its more famous neighbor, the Taj Mahal, across the Yamuna River. A visit to the Agra Fort takes you on a journey through the pages of history, offering insights into the lives of the Mughal emperors who once walked its halls.

Book a tour: Taj Mahal & Agra Fort Guided Tour (Extra vantage point)

Visit the Baby Taj Mahal / Tomb of Itimad Ud Daulah

The Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, affectionately referred to as the ‘Baby Taj’, is a charming mausoleum located on the eastern bank of the Yamuna river in Agra. Built between 1622 and 1628 by Nur Jahan, the wife of Emperor Jahangir, for her father Mirza Ghiyas Beg, the monument is considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal due to its intricate carvings and extensive use of white marble.

Unlike the more massive mausoleums of the Mughals, this smaller, jewel-box-like tomb is noted for its detailed craftsmanship and delicate inlay work, featuring semi-precious stones and a latticework of marble screens. Its symmetrical layout, with the central tomb surrounded by lush gardens, a reflection pool, and corner minarets, set the trend for future Mughal architecture. Visiting the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the subtler aspects of Mughal architecture and the evolution that led to the creation of the world-renowned Taj Mahal. This is one of the key places to visit in Agra in one day.

T ake a tuk-tuk to Akbar’s Tomb in Sikandra

I decided to grab a tuk-tuk and continue on my tour of the temples in Agra. Situated in the suburb of Sikandra, on the outskirts of Agra, lies the majestic Akbar’s Tomb, the final resting place of the Mughal Emperor Akbar the Great. Built between 1605 and 1613, this mausoleum showcases a harmonious blend of architectural styles from Hindu, Islamic, Buddhist, Jain, and Christian traditions, reflecting Akbar’s philosophy of religious tolerance.

The sprawling complex is marked by a beautiful gateway, adorned with intricate carvings and floral patterns. Inside, the monument consists of five levels, with the cenotaph on the top floor open to the sky. This tomb, unlike other Mughal tombs, is oriented towards the rising sun instead of Mecca. The vast surrounding gardens, laid out in the Charbagh style, house various wildlife species, making it a serene and tranquil spot. A visit to Akbar’s Tomb in Sikandra offers a rich historical experience and a deep appreciation for its architectural elegance and the progressive vision of the emperor it honors.

Support acid attack survivors by eating at Sheroes Hangout Cafe

Sheroes cafe is run by acid attack survivors as part of the #StopAcidAttacks movement. The food is awesome and you will be supporting an amazing cause and a courageous group of women. They serve western style food and local dishes. I had a vege-burger, fries, and a mango smoothie.

The best part about the whole experience was finding out there are no prices on the menu. You are encouraged to pay as you wish!

Check out the action along the Yamuna River

The Yamuna River, often referred to as Jamuna in various Indian languages, holds significant geographical and cultural importance in India. As the largest tributary of the sacred Ganges River, it originates from the Yamunotri Glacier in the Uttarakhand Himalayas. Flowing southwards for about 1,376 kilometers, the river traverses several states including Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Delhi before merging with the Ganges at the Triveni Sangam in Allahabad (Prayagraj).

The Yamuna River is a central feature in Agra. Many families are using the river for washing, playing and fishing. I found myself having to walk across the bridge during the day on a couple of occasions and stopped for a while to watch all of the action going on along the banks of the Yamuna.

Watch the sunset at Mehtab Bagh / Taj Mahal Viewpoint

The Mehtab Bagh is probably one of my favorite places to visit in Agra in one day. The entrance fee was only a couple of dollars but you look straight across the Yamuna River at the Taj Mahal. In fact, I thought this was a better view than from in the Taj Mahal.

Experiencing the sunset at Mehtab Bagh, also known as the Taj Mahal Viewpoint, is a breathtaking spectacle that captures the ethereal beauty of one of the world’s most iconic monuments. Mehtab Bagh is a centuries-old garden complex situated directly across the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal. The carefully aligned symmetry between the garden and the Taj offers a spectacular and unobstructed view of the mausoleum, making it a perfect spot for photography, particularly at sunset.

As the sun descends, the fading light paints the Taj Mahal in an array of hues, from soft golden to mesmerizing pink, enhancing its marble architecture and providing a visual treat that’s nothing short of magical. The lush gardens of Mehtab Bagh, away from the usual crowd, offer a tranquil space to sit, relax and soak in the awe-inspiring view. This experience is a must for any visitor to Agra, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Have a local delicacy ‘Petha’ for dessert at the Bazaar

I couldn’t believe it when the vendor told me it was made from pumpkin. It looks like a normal gelatin-type sweet and even tastes like Turkish delight. Petha comes in so many different flavors and they were all actually really tasty.

I tried chocolate, pineapple, and strawberry and I just wouldn’t have been able to pick the origin as a pumpkin. Petha is definitely a local delicacy to check out and maybe take home as a souvenir. You will find a Petha store on most market streets.

COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT VISITING AGRA

While exploring the best places to visit in Agra in one day, take note of these important tips!

• When is the best time to visit Agra? The ideal time to visit Agra is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and conducive for sightseeing. The city can be extremely hot during the summer months (April-June).
• What are the main attractions in Agra? The most popular attraction in Agra is the Taj Mahal. Other significant attractions include Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Akbar’s Tomb in Sikandra, the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj), and Mehtab Bagh.
• What are the visiting hours for the Taj Mahal? The Taj Mahal is open from sunrise to sunset every day, except for Fridays when it is closed for prayer. There are also night viewings available on the day of the full moon and the two days before and after.
• Are there any guidelines or rules for visiting the Taj Mahal? Yes, there are certain restrictions in place for the preservation of the monument. These include restrictions on large bags, food, smoking materials, and certain types of photography. It is advisable to check the latest guidelines before visiting.
• What are the best places to shop in Agra? Sadar Bazaar, Kinari Bazaar, and Munro Road are popular for local handicrafts, leather goods, marble inlay work, and traditional sweets.
• What local dishes should I try in Agra? Agra is famous for its Mughlai cuisine. Try dishes like biryani, kebabs, and Agra’s petha, a sweet made from ash gourd.
• How can I travel around Agra? Agra offers various modes of local transport including auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, prepaid taxis, and local buses. For a more convenient and comfortable experience, hiring a private taxi for the day could be a good option.
• How many days should I plan for an Agra trip? Agra can be covered comprehensively in 2-3 days, depending on your pace and interest in local culture and history.
• Are there any good hotels to stay in Agra? Agra offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets. These include luxury hotels, mid-range hotels, guest houses, and budget hostels.
• Is Agra safe for tourists? Agra is generally considered safe for tourists. However, like any popular tourist destination, it’s advisable to be cautious of your belongings and avoid isolated areas late at night.

COMMON SCAMS TO BE AWARE OF IN AGRA

While Agra is a beautiful city with welcoming locals, it’s essential to be aware of common scams that tourists may encounter while exploring the best places to visit in Agra in one day Here are a few to watch out for:

• Ticket Scams : Beware of unauthorized ticket sellers outside monuments or attractions. Purchase tickets from official counters to avoid paying inflated prices or acquiring fake tickets.
• Tour Guide Scams : Some unauthorized individuals may pose as tour guides and offer their services. It’s advisable to hire licensed guides from authorized tourism offices to ensure accurate information and a trustworthy experience.
• Gem and Jewelry Scams : Exercise caution when purchasing gemstones or jewelry from street vendors or unestablished shops. Counterfeit or low-quality items may be sold at inflated prices. Opt for reputable stores with proper certifications.
• Rickshaw and Taxi Overcharging : Negotiate the fare before getting into a rickshaw or taxi. Some drivers may attempt to overcharge or take longer routes to inflate the fare. Use registered taxis or agree upon a fair price in advance.
• Fake Charity or Begging Scams : Be wary of individuals asking for donations or claiming to support charitable causes. Verify the legitimacy of charitable organizations before making any contributions.
• Unsolicited Help : Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited assistance or guidance. They may expect payment for their services, even if you didn’t request their help.
• Hotel Booking Scams : Avoid booking accommodations through unauthorized or unknown sources. Stick to reputable booking platforms or book directly with established hotels to avoid potential fraud or overbooking issues.

Remember to stay vigilant, use common sense, and rely on trusted sources of information to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to Agra.

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Wednesday 16th of November 2022

Peta is made of Ash gourd not pumpkin

Thursday 10th of November 2022

Bhai very luxury restaurant mai nashta krne ke paise tu dega kya

Manan Daftary

Sunday 30th of October 2022

Always worth getting a travellers viewpoint. Will be visiting in December. Thanks for the info and wish you well in your globe trotting.

Friday 11th of September 2020

Oh wow, Never Knew that Agra has so much to offer rather than the Taj Mahal. I haven’t been to AGRA yet. Will definitely bookmark your article and keep for future reference.

differentgates

Monday 28th of October 2019

Very nice blog, your information is very precious for us, Thanks for sharing.

Is it worth visiting Agra? 🛕15 Best Tourist Places In Agra, India: A Tapestry of Heritage and Culture

Is it worth visiting Agra? Yes, visiting Agra is worthwhile, especially to witness the breathtaking Taj Mahal and delve into the city’s rich historical and cultural tapestry.

Agra, located on the banks of the Yamuna River, holds a significant place in India’s history. Once the capital of the Mughal Empire, this city seamlessly blends tradition and modernity.

The allure of Agra lies not only in its historical prominence but also in the vibrant tapestry of its culture. Exploring the city’s tourist spots unveils a captivating story of love, power, and architectural brilliance.

Agra, a city steeped in history and adorned with architectural marvels, stands as a testament to India’s rich cultural heritage.

From the iconic Taj Mahal to the vibrant markets and delectable cuisine, Agra offers a mesmerizing experience for every traveler. Let’s embark on a journey through the best tourist places in Agra .

Important Information of Agra

• Continent:  Asia
• Country:  India
• State:  ‎Uttar Pradesh
• City:  Agra 
• Population:  2,368,000
• Currency:  India Rupee (INR)
• Dialling Code:  0562
• Language:  Hindi, English 
• Area:  87 km²
• Mayor:  Hemalata Diwakar (BJP)

Emergency Contact No of Agra

• Police:  112 | 094544 01008
• Ambulance:  108 | 102
• Tourist Enquiry:  0562-2226431 (10 am to 5 pm ) and 0562-2421204 (6.30 am to 9.30 pm )
• Women Helpline:  1090
• Transport Corporation of Rajasthan State Road ( Jaipur):  24×7 Helpline 1-800-180-2877
• Railway Station:  Agra Cantonment railway station(AGC) | Raja Ki Mandi(RKM) | Agra Fort(AF) | Agra City(AGA) | Idgah railway station(IDH) | Yamuna Bridge Railway Station(JAB)
• Airport:  Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport(AGR)

1. Red Fort Agra

2. fatehpur sikri, 3. jama’s masjid, 4. moti’s masjid, 5. fort sikandra, 6. itmad-ud-daulah’s tomb, 7. jodha bai rauza, 8. bagh mehtab, 9. urban agra bazaars, 10. taj mahal, 11. chini rauza, 12. akbar’s tomb , 13. bagh anguri, 14. bhawan machhi, 15. diwan – i – aam, 🛒 shopping delights in agra, 👩‍🍳 delectable agra cuisine, 🕵 exploring agra beyond the tourist spots, 🏩 accommodation options in agra, 💡 travel tips for agra, q. what is the best time to visit agra, q. is the taj mahal open every day.

• Q. Are there any entry fees for Agra's monuments?

Q. Can I explore Agra on foot?

Q. what is the significance of mehtab bagh, q. which is most famous in agra, q. what are the special places in agra, q. how can i spend 1 day in agra, q. how to do sightseeing in agra, q. how many days should i spend in agra, q. is it safe to go to agra now, q. what are the disadvantages of tourism in agra, q. is the taj mahal worth visiting, 😇 conclusion, ✉ tell us in the comments which one is your favourite tourist place in agra.

📃 List of the 15 Best Tourist Places In Agra, India

There’s no shortage of places to explore in Agra. Emperor Shah Jahan produced so many city gems during his rule that draw tourists in large numbers to this day.

Admire the Mughal architecture and learn to rivet historical details about Agra and Fatehpur Sikri. Here’s a list of tourist places in Agra to explore during your trip to this beautiful city.

List Of Tourist Places in Agra with Address

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Agra Red Fort is a magnificent monument to the glory days of the former Mughal Empire. Spread over 3,80,000 sq giant territory. This fort was built by Emperor Akbar in 1556 and renovated in 1573 with red sandstone.

The fort, 2.2 km from Agra, is an actual fortress, protected on all sides with 70 feet high compound walls. Visiting the Agra Fort is one of Agra’s main activities. Called the Fenced City, Agra Fort has four gates on the four sides, the most prominent being the Delhi Gate and Lahore Gate.

This fort houses several palaces, including Shish Mahal and Khaas Mahal. Diwan-i-Khas, as well as Diwan-i-Aam welcoming rooms to many historic Masjids like Moti Masjid and Nagina Masjid, are worth seeing in this fort.

Visit Timings:  6:00-6:00 p.m.

Fatehpur Sikri is a must-visit tourist place in Agra. It is a historic town in Agra District and was the former home of several Mughal Emperors, including Akbar.

Before the capital, Sikri was a decrepit village. Its name was in celebration of emperor Akbar’s victory over Gujarat in 1573.

Fatehpur Sikri town is located on a 3 km long, 1 km wide rocky ridge, designed in Persia, India, and Islamic heritage architecture. Red sandstone, quarried locally, was used in town buildings.

The town has seven gates with a 6-km boundary wall. UNESCO designated it a World Heritage Site.  It ranks among the top  tourist places in Agra  that every traveler must add to their itinerary.

Distance From Agra:  38 km 

The list of  places to visit in Agra  is incomplete without listing Jama Masjid. While a religious landmark, it is also renowned for its impressive loftiness as well as its architectural beauty, which attracts everyone.

This four minaret Masjid, which can comfortably host up to 25,000 people for prayer, has three gateways. Agra Red Fort on Jama Masjid’s eastern side. These monuments look magnificent.

The towering dome, majestic archways, and beautiful Redstone tapestry give this place an aura. This World Heritage site features golden carvings in a royal blue backdrop and is a must-see attraction.

This mosque is generally recognized as the “Friday Mosque.”

Timings:  8 AM-6 PM

Speaking about masjids, there’s another one called Moti Masjid, one of the best  tourist places in Agra . The iconic Moti Masjid is one such landmark, known for its architecture and also not to be missed.

It is founded by Mughal King Shah Jahan, Moti Masjid is also known as the Pearl Masjid due to its spotless white façade sparkling like a pearl in sunlight. The emperor designed it specifically for Royal Court members.

Moti Masjid’s interiors are in a clear white color scheme. A white marble tank is the center of attraction in the courtyard. The marble pillar sundial testifies to the architectural glory of the past century.

Several arches lead to the mosque’s wide prayer hall, whereas the eastern side of the mosque’s main entrance. Viewing the Yamuna River from Moti Masjid’s boundaries is a treat.

  Timings:  8 AM – 6 PM 

Sikandra Fort is one of the most historic spots and also one of the most important  tourist places in Agra . This deep red sandstone building is remarkable for its timeless architectural elegance, highlighting the region’s rich history.

Located in Sikandra, the fort is Emperor Akbar’s tomb. A magnificent fort stands tall amidst lush green gardens on all sides, protected by high walls.

However, the garden is separated into four smaller parts by the times’ landscaping practices. Many fountains also give the edifice charm.

Popular to being personally supervised by emperor Akbar, Sikandra Fort has five stages, with difficult carvings adorning the walls. This well-preserved shrine is certainly one of  the best places to visit in Agra  and a visitor mustn’t miss it.

Timings:  8:00-6:00 pm. 

Itmad-ud-Daulah’s tomb mausoleum is Agra’s architectural real surprise after the famous Taj Mahal. The tomb has detailed carvings, as well as decorative inlays, which are a surprise.

It is considered the “Baccha Taj “— a smaller Taj version — and also considered the Taj Mahal’s draft. However, this red sandstone tomb is one of the best  tourist places in Agra  near the Taj Mahal that the itinerary shouldn’t miss.

This pure white tomb on the Yamuna riverbanks is a perfect example of Islamic architecture design as well as layouts.

It is believed that the artfully carved arches, absolutely stunning minarets, detailed inlay work, stunning floral works, and the imaginative use of marble emphasize the edifice’s elegance.

Timings:  8:00-12:00. Jodha Bai-Ka-Rauza.

Known as Jodha Bai’s Palace, it was Emperor Akbar’s first Rajput consort’s house. Simple but elegant, Jodha Bai’s palace is near the Jahangiri Mahal.

This building is a strong example of Indo-Mughal architecture style, highlighting to a very large extent Gujarat as well as Gwalior architectural nuances.

Rauza or Palace is 6 kilometers from Agra Castle. Palace interiors also have fine slits from which to glimpse the Taj Mahal. Located in Fatehpur Sikri, this palace is a standing reminder of Mughal emperor Akbar’s religious tolerance.

The abundance of Mughal designs portraying lotus, lions, and peacocks as well as the symbols of both religions’ unity. Also, it is among the most popular  tourist places in Agra .

Timing:  10 am – 7 pm

It is situated north of the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort complex. Mehtab Bagh is a square-shaped garden complex on the Yamuna River banks. Also, it’s in good harmony with the Taj Mahal on the Yamuna river’s opposite side.

Mehtab Bagh is a famous photographer’s spot for a fascinating sunset view. Also, it’s one of the best  places to visit in Agra  at night, and visitors flock throughout the year.

However, this magnificent garden features four towers right at an octagonal tank corner. Taj Mahal’s reflection in the tank, particularly on full-moon nights, is a sight to behold. Fruit-bearing trees, flowering plants, as well as medicinal herbs, abound in the garden.

Moreover, it’s a perfect symbol of Mughal architecture with 4 gardens. The large water tank east of the structure ensures the entire area is properly harvested. One of the famous  tourist places in Agra .

Timings:  6 AM – 9 PM 

No Agra tour is complete without stopping in the city’s several shopping areas. However, traditional bazaars house a wide range of rare items, extinct crafts as well as souvenirs. Particular interest is the Taj Mahal’s hot-selling replication in marble — Bric-a-Brac.

The city’s major bazaars include Subhash Bazaar, Kinari Bazaar, Raja ki Mandi, as well as Sadar Bazaar. Sadar Bazaar is a standout. Also, it’s one of the  best places to visit in Agra  at night.

The dazzling varieties of leather goods, handicrafts as well and garments are rare tourist attractions. You could also taste Agra’s popular street food.

Also Read:   Places To Visit In Goa

Okay, we’re there! Finally, come to the most popular  place to visit in Agra  — the Taj Mahal. However, most tours are planned with the Taj Mahal as the main attraction.

It is one of the Seven  Wonders of the World  as well as a fine showpiece of Mughal architecture. However, it was designed under Shah Jahan’s orders to remember his love for his beloved spouse, Arjun and Bano Begum.

Taj Mahal’s interior, as well as exterior, is beautifully built in white marble. Like an octagon, the inner chamber is inlaid with precious gems. The outdoor gardens, with greenery as well as fresh air, complement their richness.

Also, it’s one of the most popular  tourist places in Agra  to visit on the same day. The Taj Mahal also attracts tourists’ attention from all corners of the globe.

  Visit Timings:  6:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. 

Also Read :  Famous Temples in India

Chini ka Rauza is another spot to see while visiting the Itimad-ud-Daulah tomb in Agra. This tomb is devoted to Allama Afzal Khan Mullah, a prominent Persian scholar and poet during Jahangir’s reign.

He was appointed to Wazir later. Built in 1635 A.D., the tomb exemplifies Indo-Persian architecture.

The central chamber is octagonal, and tile works to glaze the structure. Also, the tomb overlooks the Yamuna River in a picturesque environment.

Timings:  6:00-6:00 p.m.

Established in 1605-1613, Akbar’s tomb replaces Emperor Akbar’s everlasting remains. Located in Sikandra, Akbar himself requested the tomb during his lifetime. When Aurangzeb came to power, his army stole all the gold, silver as well and diamonds.

But still, it remains one of the most beautiful  tourist places in Agra . Also, people can enter via the southern gateway that leads to a huge Charbagh-style garden.

  Timings:  6 am – 6 pm.

Also Read :  List of Festivals in India

Anguri Bagh is also one of the  tourist places on Agra  fort grounds. In 1637, the spacious gardens were designed to encourage Shah Jahan to take relaxing evening walks.

The garden design is in Charbagh style, with four compartments and intricate geometric designs. Moreover, the garden used to grow the juiciest grapes used to make wine for the emperor. He had great taste.

Visit Timings:   3 AM – 7:30 PM

Also Read :  List of National Parks in India

Macchi Bhawan is a double-storeyed building enclosed by a lush garden with arched balconies.  It’s named Machi Bhavan because it was decorated with marble tanks as well as fountains that contained gold and silverfish.

Moreover, this position used to be Shah Jahan’s Golden Throne, allowing him to have the whole court view. Also, one of the  best places to visit in Agra  Fort is situated opposite Diwan-i-Aam.

Timings:  6:00-6:00

Also Read :  Forts In India

As the title implies, Diwan-i-Aam was the location where common meetings, as well as public gatherings, were held.

Also, Shah Jahan used to hear the common crowd’s complaints here. However, originally constructed in red sandstone, the large hall is divided into three parts.

The emperor’s throne was divided from the courtiers by golden railing on the front also silver on the other three sides.

Moreover, the ceremony where the emperor addressed the public was called Jharokha Darshan. Also, it is one of the best  tourist places in Agra .

  Timings:  6:00-6:00.

Also Read :  Best places to visit in Kolkata

• Agra’s Vibrant Markets No visit to Agra is complete without exploring its bustling markets. From traditional handicrafts to modern souvenirs, Agra offers a diverse shopping experience.
• Must-Buy Souvenirs Take home a piece of Agra with locally crafted items like marble artifacts, leather goods, and traditional textiles. Each item narrates a story of craftsmanship passed down through generations.
• Local Handicrafts and Specialties Immerse yourself in Agra’s rich artistic heritage by exploring local markets that showcase intricate marble inlay work, carpets, and handmade jewelry. Support local artisans and bring home unique treasures.
• Introduction to Agra’s Culinary Scene Agra’s culinary offerings are as diverse as its cultural tapestry. From Mughlai delicacies to street food, the city tantalizes taste buds with a variety of flavors.
• Must-Try Dishes Indulge in iconic dishes like Petha, a sweet made from ash gourd, and Bedai with Aloo Sabzi, a savory delight. Agra’s cuisine reflects the culinary heritage of the Mughal era.
• Popular Food Joints Discover hidden gems in the form of local eateries that serve mouth-watering chaat, kebabs, and biryanis. Agra’s food culture invites you to savor authentic flavors amid its historic ambiance.
• Hidden Gems in Agra Venture off the beaten path to discover hidden gems like Shilpgram, a rural arts and crafts complex, and the Soami Bagh Temple known for its unique blend of architectural styles.
• Offbeat Experiences Engage in activities like a boat ride on the Yamuna River or participate in a heritage walk to uncover the untold stories of Agra’s neighborhoods. Offbeat experiences add a touch of spontaneity to your journey.
• Connecting with the Local Culture Immerse yourself in Agra’s local culture by attending traditional performances, interacting with locals, and participating in cultural events. These experiences provide a deeper understanding of the city’s soul.
• Overview of Hotels and Resorts Agra offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels with a view of the Taj Mahal to budget-friendly guesthouses. Choose a stay that complements your travel preferences.
• Budget-Friendly Stays For travelers on a budget, Agra provides numerous guesthouses and budget hotels that offer comfort without compromising on quality. Plan your stay based on your exploration itinerary.
• Luxurious Accommodations Indulge in the opulence of Agra by choosing a luxury hotel that provides a regal experience. Some hotels offer panoramic views of the Taj Mahal, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your stay.
• Best Time to Visit The months of October to March are ideal for visiting Agra when the weather is pleasant. Avoid the scorching summer months to make the most of your exploration.
• Transportation Options Agra is well-connected by road, rail, and air. Plan your transportation, and consider hiring local guides for a hassle-free experience.
• Safety Precautions While Agra is generally safe for tourists, it’s advisable to be cautious with personal belongings in crowded areas. Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and follow COVID-19 guidelines for a safe and enjoyable trip.

🙋🏻‍♀️ FAQ About Tourist Places In Agra

When making travel plans to Agra, many questions cross our minds. Some of the most often asked questions are addressed below.

A. The best time to visit Agra is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant, and the monuments are at their picturesque best.

A. Yes, the Taj Mahal is open every day except Fridays. It is advisable to check for any special closures or events before planning your visit.

Q. Are there any entry fees for Agra’s monuments?

A. Yes, most monuments in Agra have entry fees. The fees vary for domestic and international tourists, with additional charges for photography.

A. While some attractions are within walking distance, it’s advisable to use local transportation or hire a guide for a comprehensive and comfortable experience.

A. Mehtab Bagh is historically significant as it is believed to be the site where Emperor Shah Jahan planned to build a Black Taj Mahal, mirroring the white marvel across the river.

A. The Taj Mahal stands as Agra’s most famous landmark, renowned for its architectural splendor and symbol of eternal love.

A. Agra boasts special places like the Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, and Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, each holding unique historical and architectural significance.

A. For a day in Agra, prioritize visiting the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and exploring local markets for a blend of history, culture, and vibrant experiences.

A. Efficient sightseeing in Agra involves planning visits to iconic sites like the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Mehtab Bagh, optimizing your time and capturing the city’s essence.

A. Optimal Agra exploration usually takes 2-3 days, allowing ample time to appreciate key attractions like the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and local gems.

A. Agra is generally safe for tourists, but it’s advisable to stay vigilant, follow local guidelines, and take necessary precautions.

A. While tourism enriches Agra, some disadvantages include potential overcrowding at popular sites, environmental impact, and strain on local infrastructure.

A. Yeah, The Taj Mahal’s timeless beauty and rich history make it a must-visit marvel, leaving visitors awe-inspired .

As you embark on your journey through Agra, may the echoes of history, the architectural marvels, and the cultural vibrancy leave an indelible mark on your heart. Discover the Best Tourist Places In Agra, and let the city unfold its stories in every step you take.

Don’t forget to book your personalized holiday package with  Fiery Trippers . Let us make your vacation a romantic as well as a dreamy getaway.

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Rahul Siddharth

He is a dedicated travel writer with a wealth of 10 Years + experience that enriches his narratives. He holds a degree in Hospitality and Hotel Administration from IHM Dehradun, which he couples with hands-on expertise in the field. Drawing from his diverse experiences, Rahul's writings offer readers a captivating glimpse into the world of travel. Embark on a journey of exploration and inspiration with Rahul as your guide. Read More

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Tourist Places to Visit in Agra

The regal city of Agra is dotted with the wondrous remains of the Mughal period, inviting people to delve into India’s medieval past. Its claim to fame is the marvellous Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world, which attracts travellers from all around the globe. Due to the city’s inclusion in the Golden Triangle circuit owing to its proximity to Delhi and Jaipur, the places to visit in Agra observe a large influx of tourists all year round. Most people visit the city for the huge marble mausoleum but end up indulging in the evergreen ancient charm of the city highlighted by the many places to visit in Agra. It is undeniably a unique destination in the country where a huge chunk of Indian history is based. It is not surprising, therefore, that the annual number of visitors coming to the city is more than double of its own population! Excessive tourism, however, also contributes to the heightened activity in the city. It can get exasperating to avoid throngs of taxi or auto rickshaw drivers, street hawkers and unofficial tour guides competing for you to choose their services. But the Indian experience is characteristically defined by the order in its disorder, hence the places to visit in Agra manage to encapsulate such spirit rather well. Whether you love or hate it, it has become an unspoken rule for travellers to visit Agra at least once in their lives to check off the wondrous monument from their bucket list. Read on to find out which are the important places to visit in Agra.

The pre-eminent monument of India, the Taj Mahal is at the very top of all places to visit in Agra. It is a UNESCO world heritage site and among the seven wonders of the world. Renowned internationally as an eternal symbol of love, the mausoleum was constructed in the 17th century by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It is completely made of white marble and is arguably the most beautiful edifice in the word. At each entrance of the complex, you will find large gates made of red sandstone. Walking inside, you will see the beautifully maintained Mughal gardens ornate with watercourses. While strolling by the marvellous layout, it is inevitable for you to not be dazzled by the magnificent structure as you approach it. It is settled on an elevated platform, so when you look up at it, the white building stands out against a backdrop of a lovely blue sky. The Taj Mahal exhibits the classic characteristics of Mughal architecture with a dome and four minarets at each corner. The Yamuna River flows behind the building, granting a picturesque view from the complex. Right under the dome are the cenotaphs of Mumtaz Mahal as well as Shah Jahan. You are not allowed to click pictures inside the mausoleum. 

Next to the Taj Mahal is a red sandstone mosque that is one of the most important places to visit in Agra for Muslims. Every Friday prayers are held here and the monument is closed to tourists. This monument’s unimaginable beauty exceeds tourists’ wildest expectations and you must plan a trip to the Taj Mahal before all other places to visit in Agra and India. Many tourists prefer going to this tourist destination in Agra early in the morning to avoid crowds.

Another UNESCO world heritage site, the Agra Fort is one of the most important places to visit in Agra, owing not only to its incredible architecture but also its historical significance. Before the capital of the Mughal Empire moved to Delhi, this fort was the residence of the rulers. In fact, the Red Fort in Delhi was made by Shah Jahan almost replicating the Agra Fort. It sits on the banks of the Yamuna River and is at a distance of about two and a half kilometres from the wonderful Taj Mahal. The construction was started by Akbar, but the fort was enhanced from a military building into a palace by Shah Jahan. He was, sadly, imprisoned here by his son Aurangzeb within a part of the fort from where he could only see his grand creation for his beloved wife – the Taj Mahal. The complex is more like a fortified city, consisting of a number of buildings within it. Many of them have been destroyed over the years by different rulers, last taken over by the British for its troops. After India’s independence, the Indian army has occupied a large part of the fort, which is not open to tourists. Travellers can explore various other parts of the fort, such as Jahangir’s Palace, Khas Mahal, Anguri Bagh, Shish Mahal, Muthamman Burj, Jharokha Diwan-i-Khas, Diwan-i-Aam, Takhti-i-Jehangir and Nagina Masjid. Going to these places to visit in Agra within the fort can take up to three to four hours. These places can be visited as early as 30 minutes before sunrise and latest by 30 minutes before sunset.  

Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb

This is one of the places to visit in Agra that is essential for you to acquaint yourself with the evolution of architecture in the country. It is popularly called Baby Taj Mahal. Nur Jahan, Jahangir’s wife, got it made in memory of her father (who was also Mumtaz Mahal’s grandfather). Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb was the first in India to be constructed entirely out of marble and denoted a shift in Mughal architecture. Initially, the monuments constructed by them mostly utilized red sandstone whereas the use of white marble was limited to some designs. But in this new phase, white marble was used to create whole buildings. The mausoleum is the first monument in India to be set beside the Yamuna River and incorporate the pietra dura style of designing. It is believed that this tomb is one of the major inspirations for the Taj Mahal’s construction. You will notice a few similarities between this monument and other places to visit in Agra too.

Akbar’s Tomb

Built by Jahangir in honour of his father Akbar, this tomb is one of the most popular places to visit in Agra. It is made of red sandstone and white sandstone and is located in the Sikandra region. Its site was chosen by Akbar and early construction was supervised by him as well. He also designed the beautiful gardens that surround the monument. Most tombs of Islamic rulers would face the Mosque of Mecca, but Akbar’s tomb faces the east, where the sun rises. During Aurangzeb’s rule – Akbar’s great-grandson – offended Jats charged at the Agra Fort and raided Akbar’s tomb. It was later restored by the Viceroy of India to preserve this architectural marvel where lay the remains of one of the greatest rulers in the subcontinent. The restoration process was successful to a great extent, and this tomb continues to be one of the most popular places to visit in Agra.

Fatehpur Sikri

Fatehpur Sikri is among the significant places to visit near Agra. Its foundation was laid by Akbar and this fortified city served as his capital for years. It is a UNESCO world heritage site and home to many landmarks important in the list of places to visit in Agra. For example, a few of the places to see in Agra located in Fatehpur Sikri are Jodha’s palace, Jama Mosque, Buland Darwaza, and Salim Chisti’s tomb. Fatehpur Sikri shows a genuine union of varying cultural and religious beliefs as Akbar constructed individual palaces here for each of his wives who followed different religions. The walled city was constructed after his son was born in the village settled there. A paragon of Indo-Mughal architecture, this is one of the best places to visit in Agra where you can have a better understanding of India’s history. 

Buland Darwaza

Buland Darwaza is an impressive example of Mughal architecture, and was constructed by Akbar as a symbol of his victory over Gujarat. It is one of the most wonderful places to visit in Agra because it holds the record for being the highest gateway in the world! An entrance to Jama Masjid in Fatehpur Sikri, Buland Darwaza is also made of red sandstone and decorated with white and black marble. There are Persian inscriptions in the centre that narrate Akbar’s victory, tolerant nature and openness to different religions. 

Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid, also known as Friday Mosque, is one of the largest in India and among the stand-out places to visit in Agra. It was created by Shah Jahan, dedicated to his eldest daughter, Jahan Ara Begum. It is situated opposite Agra Fort; the two structures are separated by the Agra Fort Railway Station. True to the primary Mughal architectural style, this mosque is made of red sandstone, ornate with white marble. As you enter, you will see a fountain in the middle of the courtyard. Going inside, you will observe Persian inscriptions on the inner walls of the building in appreciation of Shah Jahan and his daughter Jahan Ara. The mosque is adorned with paintings, carvings, tiles and precious stones. For centuries, it has remained a landmark of the city and is one of the most iconic places to visit in Agra. Every Friday, prayers are held here that invite thousands of people. Within the premises, the Tomb of Salim Chisti is also present.

Jodha Bai ka Rauza

This is one of the many places to visit in Agra made by the Mughal Emperor Akbar. It is located in Fatehpur Sikri and was made by the king for his beloved Rajput wife Jodha. Their union was an important event, which led to Akbar being more tolerant of other faiths. His acceptance of different religions is tangibly manifested in this palace as it incorporates both Hindu and Islamic styles of architecture and decoration. Since this place was occupied by women, the architecture displays simple elegance and femininity. Although this is one of the few places to visit in Agra that is often skipped by tourists, if you are going to Fatehpur Sikri, you should make a stop to admire its distinct beauty.

Places to Visit in Agra: Markets

Sadar Bazaar

Situated near Agra Cantt. Railway Station, Sadar Bazaar is arguably the most visited of all the places to visit in Agra for shopping. There is hardly anything that you will not find here. Whether you are looking for traditional handcrafted items, ethnic clothes, bags, sweets or typical souvenirs, you will find them all here. You can stop by at one of the food joints in the vicinity when you wish to take a break from shopping. The momos and soya chaap here are pretty popular. Keep in mind that the market is closed every Tuesday. 

Subhash Bazaar

Subhash Bazaar is another one of the popular places to visit in Agra, and is located near Jama Masjid and Agra Fort. It is especially known for its silk sarees. Being a street market, it is imperative that you try to negotiate the prices so that you do not end up paying extra. This market is shut on Tuesdays. 

Kinari Bazaar

Another famous market from the places to visit in Agra is Kinari Bazaar. It is an old market near Jama Masjid. It is especially known for the wholesale goods you can find here. From handicrafts, traditional textiles to glass and marble products, there is a variety of items for you to buy at a bargain. This is also among the go-to places to visit in Agra if you want to shop for a wedding. You can easily find a good collection of sherwanis , lehengas , jewellery, dupattas , and turbans. Chimmanlal Puri Wale is one of the popular street food vendors in Agra who puts up his stall near the market, giving you another reason to stop here while you explore the places to visit in Agra. 

Raja ki Mandi

One of the busiest marketplaces to visit in Agra, Raja ki Mandi is famous for jewellery, accessories, clothes, decorative good, items used for worship, books and sweets among many other things. It is right next to Raja ki Mandi Railway Station. This is one of the oldest places to visit in Agra, as this market has been functioning since the Mughal era. You can find an assortment of items on sale here and is good for a visit if you are looking to shop in Agra. 

Places to Visit in Agra: Lesser Known Spots

Mehtab Bagh

Across the Yamuna River to the north of the Taj Mahal lies Mehtab Bagh. For a distant yet gripping view of places to visit in Agra such as the Taj Mahal and the Agra Fort, this is an ideal spot to spend your evening. It is the last remaining Mughal garden out of the 11 set on the banks of the Yamuna River. A perfectly symmetrical square garden, it has four towers made of red sandstone at each corner. There is also a huge tank smack in the middle. Not only is the garden a beautiful site to stroll around amidst a variety of trees, flowers and shrubs, it is also the best spot to enjoy a postcard-perfect view of the Taj Mahal. It is said that Shah Jahan renovated the degraded park to marvel at his architectural wonder just as millions of tourists do today. This is one of the most picturesque places to visit in Agra and is often frequented by photographers. During monsoon, the park sometimes gets flooded, hence it is advised to plan a visit to this tourist destination in Agra in winter.

Wildlife SOS Agra Bear Rescue Facility

Wildlife SOS has a commendable initiative to protect wildlife and preserve the environment in Agra. They are mainly known for protecting the sloth bears used as dancing bears by the tribal community of Korai Village, near Fatehpur Sikri. The rescues are cared for in artificially created natural habitats. The organisation also attempts to educate locals and provide them with alternatives for a sustainable way of earning a livelihood. Besides bears, Wildlife SOS focuses on helping leopards, elephants, tigers and other reptiles. You can add this to your itinerary along with the historical places to visit in Agra for a change. There are tours organised where you can learn about the recuperation process of the rescued animals. This is one of the places to visit in Agra where you can attend informative workshops. 

Situated within the premises of the Taj Mahal, this museum is home to all the information you could possibly want on the monument. It consists of original layout plans, samples of stones, royal orders, records, old photographs and drawings of the Taj Mahal. Even the planning of the graves and their records are kept here. Hence, this is one of the most interesting places to visit in Agra as it showcases the entire brainstorming process behind this grand monument. The major exhibits here are the ivory portraits of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal. As you walk around, you will observe a number of antiquities, weapons, manuscripts, calligraphy works, semi-precious stones and utensils.

Mother Teresa's Missionaries Of Charity

Mother Teresa was a Nobel Peace Prize laureate who started the Missionaries of Charity, a Roman Catholic religious congregation, in over a hundred countries. Its aim was the welfare of the underprivileged afflicted by HIV AIDS, tuberculosis or leprosy. One of those centres is in Agra and is among the few places to visit in Agra where you can spend a day in service of the society. As you enter this place, you will be greeted with warmth and smiles. This is unlike any of the other places to visit in Agra, but the time you spend with the people here will leave you with memories that’ll last for a lifetime. You can go on a tour, observe the kindness prevalent in the centre and learn about how the nuns extend a helping hand to the needy. If you wish to, you can make small donations here as well.

Written by Shruti Mishra, an in-house Tripoto writer. Frequent searches leading to this page:- best places to visit in agra, agra tourist places, places to see in agra, places to visit near agra, tourist destination in agra, agra tourist spots, agra sightseeing, places to visit near agra, attractions in agra, agra famous places

Agra   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Peter Zelei Images | Getty Images

5 Best Things To Do in Agra

Updated Feb. 11, 2021

The Taj Mahal will no doubt be No. 1 on your list, and it should be the very first thing you do in Agra (i.e. go early in the morning). Crowds here can quickly reach legendary levels (the attraction sees thousands of visitors per day), so be

• All Things To Do

Taj Mahal Taj Mahal

Plain and simple: This is the reason you come to Agra. The Taj Mahal is a majestic tomb built in the Mughal style, which combines Indian, Islamic and Persian architectural principles. Visitors marvel at the intricate Quran inscriptions, the structure's perfect symmetry, the ornate accents, and the surrounding manicured gardens. But this monument's enchantment goes beyond its arresting visual appeal: The story behind its creation has drawn romantics for centuries.

According to legend, Emperor Shah Jahan (part of the Mughal dynasty, which ruled the majority of northern India between the 16th and 18th centuries) fell deeply in love with Arjumand Banu Begum, who became his favorite of his three wives. They shared such an intense passion for each another that he renamed her "Mumtaz Mahal," or "Chosen One of the Palace." After many years of happy marriage, Mumtaz passed away during the birth of her 14th child. To commemorate their undying love for one another, the Shah built the Taj Mahal as an elaborate tomb. The tomb is made up entirely of white marble and features jade, crystal, lapis, turquoise and amethyst stones inlaid throughout. Over 20,000 workers labored over the site for more than 20 years.

Agra Fort Agra Fort

Just northwest of the Taj Mahal , this formidable fortress rests on the west bank of the Yamuna River on the edge of central Agra. About a century older than its more recognized neighbor, Agra Fort boasts impressive red sandstone architectural details throughout and is considered to be one of the best Mughal forts in India. Several rulers made their mark on this site while they lived behind its towering walls, including Shah Jahan, the same emperor who is responsible for the construction of the Taj Mahal. You can credit Jahan with the white marble features you'll find within the fort. It was he who was also responsible for eventually converting the structure into a palace. (Jahan's grandfather, Emperor Akbar originally built it as a fort some hundred years earlier). Travelers could easily spend hours touring and admiring the fort's many offerings, including mosques, verdant courtyards and towers, one of which acted as a prison for Jahan until his death. Today, the site still holds onto its defense roots, as some areas of the fort are used by the Indian military, and as such closed to the public. 

Recent visitors were impressed by the fort and suggested travelers visit here before heading to the Taj Mahal to learn about how the imperial family lived. Many called the fort an architectural must-see with great historical significance and said it even offers great views of the Taj Mahal, too. Travelers did point out that there isn't a whole lot of shade when walking around the attraction, so don't visit in the middle of the day when the sun is beating down on the fort. Visitors also recommended using a guide during your stay to better understand the vast history behind the fort (guides can be arranged on-site). 

Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb

Located on the east bank of the Yamuna River (just a few miles from central Agra), Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb boasts a pretty picturesque setting. This tomb is the first mausoleum in India to be constructed entirely of marble. You'll recognize that the same stone was used for the Taj Mahal ; in fact, this monument often goes by the nicknames, "Mini Taj" or "Baby Taj." But just because it's smaller in size doesn't mean you should neglect it.

This monument houses a former royal representative. Not only did Itmad-ud-Daulah serve under Emperor Akbar, Shah Jahan's grandfather (Shah Jahan is the man responsible for the Taj Mahal) but also Emperor Jehangir, who ended up marrying Daulah's daughter. Itmad-ud-Daulah was actually not the government representative's given name. Rather, Mizra Ghiyas was given the name Itmad-ud-Daulah as an honor title from the emperors, which translates to "pillar of the state."

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Fatehpur Sikri Fatehpur Sikri

Believe it or not, this gorgeous city was built all thanks to one man's blessing. Emperor Akbar, the one also responsible for the Agra Fort , visited the Sikri village to seek guidance from a saint sometime in the 16th century. At the time, there was no heir to his throne, but conveniently after the consultation, Akbar was blessed with the sons he needed to carry on his legacy. To celebrate, Akbar built Fatehpur Sikri, which translates to "City of Victory." Fatehpur Sikri was intended to be the capital of Agra and seat of the Mughal dynasty. Knowing this, you may ask: Why have I never heard of Fatehpur Sikri before? Due to a lack of water, the city was abandoned just a few years after its construction. Just about 23 miles west of Agra, Fatehput Sikri lay empty for hundreds of years. Now, the bewitching ghost town sees an influx of annual visitors, thanks to its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While here, make sure to stop in the Diwan-i-Khas, Akbar's royal chambers, the tomb of the saint that granted Akbar's destiny (the Tomb of Salim Chisti) as well as Jami' Masjid, the on-site mosque said to be modeled after the Great Mosque of Mecca. 

With fewer crowds than the Taj Mahal or Agra Fort , Fatehpur Sikri is a favorite among travelers for its ornate and detailed Mughal architecture (Fatehpur Sikri is considered to be one of the best examples in the world). Visitors also enjoy being able to tour the magnificent grounds at a leisurely pace. The biggest downside for travelers was surprisingly not the distance to this attraction (it's an hour's drive by car), but rather the hawkers and unofficial guides that pervade the area.

Mehtab Bagh Mehtab Bagh

Interested in seeing the Taj Mahal from more than one angle? Then head over to Mehtab Bagh, or the Moonlight Gardens. Mehtab Bagh is situated opposite of the Taj Mahal on the northern side of the Yamuna River. These gardens are the last of Emperor Babur's 11 gardens that once lined the river. Babur is the founder of the Mughal dynasty, which includes the likes of Shah Jahan (responsible for the Taj Mahal) and Emperor Akbar (responsible for the Agra Fort ). The gardens are modest in comparison to other royal gardens (such as the landscape at Versailles Palace ), but Mehtab Bagh's purpose today is a practical one. After the empire fell, the gardens were neglected and eventually became unrecognizable. Winds would pick up sand that was left in the plot and travel to the Taj Mahal, causing officials to worry about erosion. The garden was rehabilitated specifically to protect the Taj Mahal from these natural occurrences.

Some visitors offered mixed reviews of the gardens, describing the grounds as unimpressive and neglected, while others found the site to be a verdant oasis. Regardless of travelers' feelings about aesthetics, many agreed it was peaceful thanks to its distance from the Taj tourists. Plus, the stunning views of the Taj were more than worth the trip, according to reviewers. Some say the best time to visit is at sunset, when the sky lights up with the Taj in the background.

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15 best tourist places to visit in agra.

Agra is one of the best tourist attractions to explore in India if you are fond of city tourism and historical places. The Delightful chaos of the city will surely delight your heart too. It is also one of the most visited tourist destinations of India because of the iconic heritage attraction of Taj Mahal. But the city has a lot to offer other than the Taj Mahal attraction as there are many more attractive historical monuments to explore in Agra which will reveal its true beauty.

Let’s know about some of the best tourist attractions to see in Agra to enjoy the best of Agra Tourism as it has much more to offer than the Iconic Taj Mahal.

List of Top Must Visit Attractions in & around Agra –

Fatehpur Sikri

• Itimad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb

Mariyam’s Tomb

Akbar’s tomb, mehtab bagh, chini ka rauza, radhasoami samadhi, keetham lake, motilal nehru park, jama masjid, anguri bagh, gurudwara guru ka taal.

Popular Agra Sightseeing Tour Packages

• 2 Nights 3 Days Delhi Agra Tour Package
• 3 Nights 4 Days Agra, Fatehpur Sikri & Jaipur Tour
• 4 Nights 5 Days Golden Triangle Tour
• 8 Nights 9 Days Golden Triangle Tour with Ranthambore

The charm of Taj Mahal attracts people from all over the world. It is one of the most beautiful heritage destinations of India. Being one of the seven wonders of the world, this white marble structure resembles paradise on earth. People call it a symbol of love as it was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.

The most interesting fact about this monument is that it took 20 years to build this white marvelous structure. No doubt why it is beautiful. The artisans from Persia and Italy built this wonderful monument with so much persistence and skill that no other structure can compete with its beauty. It is one of the landmark destinations and the best places to visit in Agra. Moreover, couples love this place as it is the symbol of love. So they find it the best place to cherish some romantic moments and click awesome romantic pictures. Hence it is the best place to visit for couples in Agra.

Also Read: Heritage Tourism in Uttar Pradesh

Agra Fort is one of the most popular Tourist attractions to Visit in Agra. If you love historical monuments and are a great history buff then you must visit this magnificent fort. It will take you back in Mughal times. The beauty of this Red sandstone Agra Fort will blow your heart away. There are several exquisite monuments in Agra Fort which you must see. There are vast underground sections. The Diwan-I-Aam is a place where Mughal emperor Shah Jahan used to listen to the problems of his people. Left to the Diwan-I- Aam is a large and beautiful courtyard. The beautiful Nagina Masjid is also one of the most popular attractions to see in Agra Fort. The other attractions to see here are Shesh Mahal, Khas Mahal and Jahangir’s Palace.

Also Read: Interesting Facts About Taj Mahal

In your Agra sightseeing Tour if you haven’t seen Fatehpur Sikri then your Agra trip will be incomplete. It comes in the list of top 10 best places to visit in Agra. Fatehpur Sikri was built by Mughal emperor Akbar between 1572 and 1585AD. Today it is one of the best places to explore in Agra. There is an interesting story behind the creation of Fatehpur Sikri. Akbar did not have a child as an heir so he wished for a son and went to a Sufi saint named Salim Chishti to get blessings to fulfill his wish of having a son. He blessed him and after some time Akbar was blessed with a son. In gratitude he named his son Salim and built Fatehpur Sikri his capital. It is also said that before Akbar Babur named this place ‘Shukri’ as a token of gratitude for the locals who helped him to win the battle of Khanwa in 1527 against Rana Sanga.

Also Read: Must Visit Museums in Uttar Pradesh

Itimad – Ud – Daulah’s Tomb

Dedicated to Mirza Ghiaz Beg, father of Nur Jahan Itimad- Ud- Daulah is one of the top places to visit in Agra. He got the title of Itmad- Ud- Daulah during his time at Mughal court. Nur Jahan herself commissioned this tomb in 1622 and 1628 AD. He was the most trusted minister and a treasurer in the Mughal court of Akbar. Jehangir also married his daughter Nur Jahan. The Persian style architecture of this attractive marble resembles Taj Mahal hence it is also known as Baby Taj. There is too much historical information but you will definitely love this place.

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Built in the memory of Akbar’s wife Mariam Uz Zamani Begum who was the mother of Mughal emperor Jehangir, also known as Hira Kunwari, Mariyam’s Tomb is one of the popular sightseeing places in Agra. It is located a few km away from Akbar’s Tomb in Sikandra. The tomb was built by Jehangir in 1623 AD. It is a must visit tourist destination if you are interested in knowing the history. The Mughal Gardens, Mughal style domes with a lotus on the top and the fascinating Chhatris will overpower your senses. It is a beautiful tourist attraction to explore in Agra.  

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You cannot miss this amazing and important tourist attraction in Agra named as Sikandra as it houses the tomb of the most favorite rulers of Mughal empire- Akbar. Moreover, it is a beautiful place to behold.  The amalgamation of beautiful Hindu and Muslim architecture looks so amazing. It also represents the secular outlook of Mughal emperor Akbar. The most interesting fact about this place is that the tomb was built by Akbar but he couldn’t complete it. It was later finished by his son Jehangir.

• Top 48 Monuments in India that Reflect Rich Culture and Heritage

Located in the western banks of River Yamuna and spreaded over 300 acres, Mehtab Bagh is a popular heritage tourist attraction to explore in Agra. It is said that the Mughal emperor Babur built 11 pleasure gardens and this Bagh is the last of them. You can also view the Taj Mahal from this beautiful garden. It is a wonderful place for leisure strolls. Beautiful walkways, fountains and pavilions increased the charm of this place. There is an interesting story about this place. It is said that Shah Jahan decided to build black Taj Mahal in exact alignment to white Taj but his dreams of building it remained a dream as his son Aurengajeb imprisoned him till death.

• 7 More Sites Added to The World Heritage List by UNESCO

Don’t miss this Indo- Persian architecture style marvelous monument known as Chini Ka Rauza. It is dedicated to Shah Jahan’s prime minister Afzal Khan Aalami built in 1635 AD in Etmadpur. Decked with mesmerizing gardens and the blue glazed tiles which is known as Chini Mitti (Porcelain) at that time will take your breath away. The floral designs on the monument are of Persian style and the most striking feature here is the beautiful tomb which resembles the style of Afghan Tombs. It is an interesting tourist place to explore in Agra for history lovers.

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Built by Babur and renovated by Jehangir’s wife Nur Jahan, Ram Bagh is the oldest and the most beautiful Mughal gardens to explore in India. It is also one of the must visit destinations in Agra. It used to be known as Aaram Bagh and was built for the purpose of seeking pleasure amidst nature. It is one of the best masterpieces of Islamic architecture which you must behold if you are an architecture and history lover. Pillared Pavilions, beautiful waterways and decorated footpaths make it a wonderful place for nature walks.

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Radhasoami Samadhi is a must visit serene tourist attraction to explore in Agra. This beautiful headquarters is a tribute to Radhasoami faith. It is believed that a dedicated service to this community purifies one’s soul and removes all the karmic backlogs from life. It houses the tomb of ‘Swamiji Maharaj’ who is a founder of Radha Soami Sect. It is actually not a religion to follow but a sect which has been led by various Sadgurus for many years.

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Located inside the Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, Keetham Lake is one of the must visit places to visit with family and friends in Agra.  It is home to various cheerful migratory birds. It houses around 105 species of migratory birds. Purple Heron and Pintail are some of the most prominent bird species found here. The lake is of Pentagonal shape and you can enjoy mesmerizing views of nature. You can also enjoy boating here. There are beautiful man-made islands in this Sanctuary which offers scenic views of nature for photography and bird watching. It is a wonderful getaway in Agra to enjoy some leisure time with family.

• Best Time to Visit- November to March
• Time – 6:00am to 6:00pm
• Where to Go on Holidays in India with Elderly Parents?

To enjoy the best of Uttar Pradesh Tourism you must visit Motilal Nehru Park. It stretches from Agra Fort to Taj Mahal which makes it one of the best tourist attractions for leisure walks. You can also enjoy a picnic with your friends and family here. It is a fun place to visit for couples also. Holding each other’s hands and walking and talking to each other makes every moment blissful. Hence it is also one of the best tourist attractions to visit for couples in Agra.

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Built in the 17th century, Jama Masjid is a must visit heritage tourist attraction to visit in Agra. It is also known as Friday Mosque. Jama Masjid is dedicated to Jahanara the daughter Shah Jahan. This red sandstone and white marble structure look visually very appealing. The intricately carved inner walls depict the praise of Shah Jahan and Jahanara and also the lovely relationship between them. Every Friday a special prayer is held and tourists from all across the globe come here to get divine blessings. The twelve inner domes at the lower level makes it quite gorgeous to behold.

• Top Religious Places to Visit in India

Known as the Garden of Grapes, Anguri Bagh is the top traveling places to visit in Agra. decked with red sandstone in south, north and west and attractive Khas Mahal on the east side makes it an enchanting tourist destination to visit. It used to be a place for the leisure strolls of the royal ladies of the Mughal empire. There are around 85 symmetrical gardens, a beautiful fountain and a charming pool which makes this place beautiful. There is a courtyard with blissful tanks, hamams and gardens which makes it a pleasurable sight for nature sightseeing in Agra. It was built by Shah Jahan in 1637 AD.

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It is one of the most popular spiritual attractions to explore in Agra. It is a prominent Sikh pilgrimage attraction. It is dedicated to Guru Teg Bahadur Ji who was the ninth of the 10 Sikh Gurus. He sacrificed himself and willingly offered himself for arrest by Aurangzeb. According to him everyone has a right to practice his or her faith. There used to be a water reservoir for the conservation of water in the reign of Jahangir but later a Gurdwara was built here. Today it is one of the most popular spiritual attractions to explore in Agra.

• Everything You Need to Know About Kashi Vishwanath Corridor Dham Temple

Agra Tourism has a lot to offer to tourists looking to revel in the charm of history. There are so many historical heritage attractions to explore in Agra, the beauty of which will definitely elevate your Agra Travel experience to another level. Indeed, Visiting Agra would be one of the best choices for a traveler looking for a wonderful getaway for a 2-3-day trip. Do share your memorable experiences of Agra Tourism in the comment section of this blog.

Other Important Uttar Pradesh Tourism Links

• Uttar Pradesh Complete Travel Guide
• Pilgrimage Tourism in Uttar Pradesh
• Best Time to Visit Uttar Pradesh

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Frequently Asked Questions

What agra is famous for.

Agra is a popular tourist destination for Taj Mahal as it is one of the most iconic heritage structures of India. It is also one of the seven wonders of the world which makes it worldwide popular destination. Tourist from all over the world come to see Taj Mahal in Agra. Agra is also one of the most popular attractions for historical monuments belonging to Mughal Period.

What is the best time to Visit Agra?

October to March is the best time to visit Agra as the weather will remain pleasant for sightseeing as summer makes it quite unbearable for the tourists to explore tourist attractions but winter makes the sightseeing in Agra blissful.

What are the top things to do in Agra?

Some of the best things to do in Agra to make your Agra sightseeing tour interesting are –

• Sightseeing of Historical Monuments
• Savor lip smacking cuisines of Agra
• Shopping at Kinari Bazaar
• Explore Restaurants and Cafes
• Visit Taj Museum
• Bird Watching

What is the opening & closing times of Taj mahal for tourist?

• Opening Time of Taj Mahal – 6:00am Before Sunrise
• Closing Time of Taj Mahal – 6:00pm 30 minutes before sunset
• Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays

How many days are required to explore best of Agra tourism?

Which are the nearest airports & railway station to agra.

• Nearest Airport to Agra – Indira Gandhi International Airport Delhi
• Nearest Railway station to Agra – Agra Cantt Railway Station

Published: 12 May, 2022

About the author

Pallavi Roy

She is a candle who burns and melts in the chaos of infinity, from where her visceral whistles and leaves an imprint of desire in her heart to know the map of an Island where there are different sunrises and sunsets. Her curiosity brightens to conquer the hearts unrelieved and sometimes mysterious. Her name is - Pallavi Roy - A traveller by soul and a writer by Profession.

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13 Best Places to visit in Agra: ✔Entry Fee, Timings, Location

Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Destinations > Agra > 13 Best Places to visit in Agra: ✔Entry Fee, Timings, Location

If you have always wanted to visit the Taj Nagri but the idea seemed too daunting, we have curated an Agra itinerary that will help you explore the most famous places to visit in Agra. With an area of 4,027 km² and an elevation of 170 m, Agra has established itself as the tourist hotspot. 

When planning to visit Agra, the most common mistake people make is to visit just the Taj. Yes, it is a major highlight of the city but there are plenty of other monuments that make for a perfect pitstop. Spend the majority of your time soaking in the beauty of Taj Mahal, however, there are other places around this monument that you can easily cover on your 2-day sojourn to Agra.

Dreaming about standing in front of the Taj already? Read on our Agra trip planner to give you a glimpse of once-in-a-lifetime brilliance.

Best Places to Visit in Agra in 2024:

Agra tour – day 1: , 1. taj mahal, agra.

Taj Mahal | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

Located on the southern bank of the Yamuna River, Taj Mahal rises like a dream from the hazy, and oftentimes chaotic city of Agra. Completed in the year 1653, the entire Taj complex is not only a testament to the beauty and genius of artisans of the bygone era, but is also known to carry a legacy with it.

The complex was a witness to 130 years of Mughal reign. If you want to step back in history and take a peek inside what that era looked like, go for a stroll inside the complex. From the magnificent Mughal architecture to cuisines sold outside the complex, everything has been inspired by the memorable era of the Mughals.

Needless to say, you should start your exploration of the city with the Taj Mahal. It is always recommended to visit this beautiful mausoleum early in the morning; the view of the sunrise is worth every effort. The complex opens even before the sun comes up, so you can start your tour at the earliest (to avoid the crowd later in the day). It is also one of the most beautiful places to visit in Agra at night.

• Entry Fee: ₹50 for Indians (valid for 3 hours, not valid for mausoleum entry), ₹200 (for mausoleum entry) and ₹1250 for foreigners
• Timing: 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes before sunset, Closed on Fridays
• Accommodation: You can easily find budget hotels in Agra close to the monument.
• Location: Forest Colony, Tajganj
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 6.2 km

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2. Mughal Gardens, Agra

After taking a tour of the minarets, tombs and the entire monument, you can sit at the Mughal Garden or just take a stroll along it. A reflection of the concept of ‘Paradise Garden’, the idea of Charbagh or a Mughal Garden around the Taj was inspired by the Persian gardens. It not only enhances the beauty of the entire complex but has a long avenue of trees laid out according to their scientific names. The fountain in the middle of the garden reflects Taj Mahal on full moon nights, making it an even surreal sight than it already is. Mughal Gardens is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Agra in evening.

• Entry Fee: ₹15 for Indians and ₹200 for foreigners
• Timing: 6 am to 6 pm everyday
• Location: Ram Bagh (Find hotels near Rambagh )
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 6.8 km

3. Taj Museum, Agra

Museum | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

By the time you soak in the beauty of Taj and spend some time, pondering over life, in the Mughal Gardens , it will be afternoon. Replenish yourself with some local delicacy and get ready for an insightful tour of the Taj Museum and Gallery. Mughal Gardens is also one of the best places to visit in Agra in one day. 

Located on the west side of the gardens, the Taj museum is the place where you can find the authentic Mughal miniature paintings including, the original ivory portraits of emperor Shah Jahan and his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Apart from these paintings, take a tour of the museum and you will find gold and silver coins dating back to the Mughal era. {Fun Fact: Do take a look at the nifty celadon plates. These were said to have split in pieces or even change colour if the food served in them was poisonous. Such a cool thing, right?}

• Entry Fee: Nil  
• Timing: 10 am – 5 pm, Closed on Fridays
• Location: Forest Colony, Tajganj 
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 6.1 km
• Accommodation: Hotels near Taj Museum  

4. I’timād-ud-Daulah or the ‘Baby Taj’ of Agra

Baby Taj | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

The reason why Tomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah is called Baby Taj is pretty self-evident. Yes, it looks like a miniature version of Taj Mahal, however, it has its own charm and elegance. Located on the eastern bank of Yamuna river, the tomb of Mirza Ghiyas Beg has a resplendent architecture and intricately carved jalis or window screens. It is one of the topmost places to visit in Agra near Taj Mahal. 

This was the first structure to be built entirely out of marble stones, with pietra dura, and make use of the famous pleasure gardens. Take a walk around the monument, after which you can leave for exploring the Mehtab Bagh. All these historical monuments also make for a great itinerary for places to visit in Agra in 1 day.

• Entry Fee: ₹10 for Indians, ₹110 for Foreigners & ₹25 for Camera
• Timing: 6 am – 6 pm
• Location: Moti Bagh
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 9 km

5. Mehtab Bagh, Agra

Mehtab Bagh | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

Conceived long before Taj Mahal came in the picture, the powerful emperor Babur built the Charbagh or famously called Mehtab Bagh. Located north of the Taj complex, this must-visit attraction in Agra is full of greenery and provides a perfect spot to view the Taj Mahal.

Also called as the ‘Moonlight Garden’, this is just the place to get a stunning view of the sunset and capture some insta-worthy shots. The scenic beauty makes it one of the best places to visit in Agra for couples. Visitors often come to Mehtab Bagh to find respite from the usual touristy crowd of the city. The garden gives them that solitude and much more.

• Entry Fee: ₹15 for Indians & ₹200 for Foreigners
• Accommodation: Hotels near Mehtab Bagh
• Location: Nagla Devjit 
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 10 km

Time for splurging on souvenirs

After spending the entire day exploring the top 10 places to visit in Agra, it is time for some shopping in the famous markets of Agra.

So, what is the USP of Agra’s bazaar? Handicrafts and art works! Agra may not be high on the list of fashionistas but it is surely a haven for people looking to add something unique and beautiful to their collection. Start your shopping haul from Sadar Bazaar, located right next to the Agra Cantonment railway station. Here, you can easily find leather goods, handicrafts and apparels as well.

Always, we repeat, always bargain when shopping in the markets of Agra. This bazaar is closed on Tuesdays so plan accordingly.

If you are looking for some silk sarees or anything related to silk, Subhash Bazaar is the place for you. It is located near Jama Masjid in the Hawai Gali.

Apart from these two famous places to visit in Agra, you should also stop at Raja ki Mandi and Kinari Bazaar for some exquisite handicrafts and textiles.

Tip: Find some restaurants that provide an exemplary view of the Taj because nothing beats the experience of dining with a view, especially if that view is of the Taj itself. Also, do buy some packed murabbas for your kin.

Agra Tour – Day 2: 

6. agra fort (red fort of agra).

Agra Fort | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

No Agra itinerary is complete without visiting the magnificently stunning Agra Fort . Touted as one of the finest Mughal forts in Agra, this one is often underrated by both tourists and tour guides.

Among the places to visit in Agra in 2 days, Agra Fort shares a close second spot next to the famous Taj Mahal. So, for your second day, we recommend taking in the red sandstone beauty of this fort along with exploring places close by. Start with the Agra Fort. Just keep walking through the long courtyards of this huge fort and you will realize what a magnanimous structure it indeed is.

The fort was the grand plan of Emperor Akbar, who wanted this to be the military base of the Mughal Empire. And the fort did serve its purposes. However, when Shah Jahan came in power, he modified the structure a bit by making some additions with his favorite material – white marble.

A palace and a fortress, this structure has hidden legacies, myths and many corridors that intrigue visitors. From Diwan-I-Am to Sheesh Mahal , you can spend an entire day just soaking up the beauty of this place; it won’t disappoint.

Read also – 5 days golden triangle Tours

The fort is just 2.5 km from Taj Mahal and some 5 km from the Agra Cantonment railway station. Make sure your Agra trip plan includes the Red Fort as well because you wouldn’t want to miss visiting a UNESCO World Heritage site now, would you?

Tip: The Jama Masjid of Agra is just opposite of Agra Fort . Do visit this mosque before you leave for Akbar’s Tomb, the next place on your list.

• Entry Fee: 6 am – 6 pm
• Timing: ₹20 for Indians, ₹300 for Foreigners
• Accommodation: Hotels near Agra Fort
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 5.6 km

7. Akbar’s Tomb, Agra

Akbar’s Tomb | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of just 15 km from Taj Mahal is the mighty Akbar’s tomb. Located in Sikandra, the suburbs of Agra, take some time to soak in the legacy of one of the most important Mughal Emperor – Akbar.

According to myths, Akbar himself commemorated the construction of the tomb because it was said to be an ongoing tradition where the rulers had to build their tombs in their lifetime. Complete with minarets and inscriptions on the walls, the entire structure is built in red sandstone and should definitely be a part of your trip.

• Timing: Sunrise to sunset
• Entry Fees: ₹15 for Indians, ₹210 for Foreigners
• Location: Sikandra
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 15.4 km

8. Fatehpur Sikri Fort complex

Fatehpur Sikri Fort | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

No trip to Agra is complete without a visit to the ancient walled city of Fatehpur Sikri . Located at a distance of around 40 km from Agra, it is famed as the political capital of Emperor Akbar and is one of the top places to visit in Agra. 

By visiting Fatehpur Sikri, one goes further back in time to take a look at the reign of Akbar. Just like Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri Fort is also listed among the World Heritage Sites by UNESCO .

Akbar first went to Sikri to meet a Sufi saint by the name of Shaikh Salim Chishti. He prophesied about the heir to the Mughal throne and after the prophecy came true, Akbar decided to move his capital to Sikri.

Just like Akbar’s secular beliefs and his idea to take in the positivity from different cultures and religions, the fort also displays the same ethos. A blend of Persian and Mughal architecture with some glimpses of Hindu, Christian and Jain culture as well, take your time to explore each structure inside the complex.

The establishment has a beautiful mosque along with three palaces, one for each of his wife. Some of the important structures you should not miss are Jodha Bai’s Palace , Panch Mahal and Hiran Minar .

• Timings: Sunrise to sunset, Closed on Fridays
• Entry Fees: ₹40 for Indians, ₹550 for Foreigners  
• Accommodation: Hotels near Fatehpur Sikri Fort complex
• Location: Buland Gate, Dadupura
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 36.5 km

On a concluding note, if you are planning to visit Agra, make sure you do it properly rather than a day’s trip from Delhi . Take your time to soak in the beauty, history and architecture of the world-renowned Taj Mahal. Do not miss out on the other underrated yet highly significant and glorious structures.

Check Other Places to Visit in Agra

9. jama masjid, agra.

Jama Masjid | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

This popular mosque was built by the daughter of Shah Jahan – Jahanara. It is one of the biggest mosques in India and is known for its splendid architecture. The red sandstone construction and intricate designs on the tomb will leave you amazed. It is indisputably one of the best

• Location: Subash Bazar, Kinari Bazar 
• Timing: 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM to 6:30 PM
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 5.1 km

10. Moti Masjid, Agra

Moti Masjid | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

Also known as the Pearl Mosque, Moti Masjid was built by Shah Jahan in 1648. It is one of the most visited tourist places in Agra . The mosque boasts beautiful designs and the finest architecture on white marble. The most amazing thing about the mosque is the way it stands on a slope with many side arcades and arched recessions.

• Location: State Highway 62 Agra Fort
• Timing: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Accommodation: Hotels near Moti Masjid
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 5.8 km

11. Sikandra Fort, Agra

Sikandra Fort | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

This magnificent fort is among the most famous places in Agra . It houses the tomb of Akbar and has eye-catching gates and designs made of red sandstone. The fort’s architecture is an impeccable blend of Hindu and Islamic designs. What’s more, the intricate stone carvings and excellent craftsmanship of the fort will leave you amazed.

• Location: Tomb of Akbar the Great, Sikandra
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 13.2 km

12. Dolphin Water Park, Agra

When visiting places in Agra , make sure you check out Dolphin Water Park. It is North India’s biggest water park and a favourite among tourists. It houses an amusement park, a water park, and a fast-food plaza that serves Indian and Chinese dishes. Dolphin Water Park is undeniably one of the best places to visit in Agra with family.

• Location: NH-2, Mathura Road, Runkuta
• Timing: 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM
• Adults (Above 4 feet): INR 550
• Children (Under 4 feet): INR 400
• Activities: You can enjoy different rides here, such as multilane water slides, wave pool, clusters, carousel caterpillar, merry go round, dolphin express – the kiddy’s train, and many more. 
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 27 km

13. Wildlife SOS Bear Sanctuary, Agra

This rescue and conservation organisation is among the most popular tourist attractions in Agra . It works to conserve wildlife, especially bears, elephants, leopards, reptiles and other animals. You must pre-book the personal two-hour guided experience that Wildlife SOS offers. This guided tour tells about the history of dancing bears, their conservation, and more.  

• Location: Inde, NH2, Murada
• Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Distance from Agra Railway Station: 36.2 km

Frequently Asked Questions About Agra:

Q: What is the best time to visit Agra?

A: October to March is the ideal time to plan a visit to Agra as the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing.

Q: Which tourist places in Agra are UNESCO-listed?

A: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri near the city are the three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Agra.

Q: Is there an airport in Agra?

A: Yes, Agra Airport primarily serves as an airbase. However, it currently operates direct flights to and from Jaipur.

Q: Which railway station in Agra is closest to Taj Mahal?

A: Agra Cantt railway station is only 20 minutes away from Taj Mahal. Autos and cycles rickshaws are easily available from here to reach the site.

Q: What modes of transport are available to travel within Agra?

A: Autos and cycle rickshaws are readily available in all parts of the city. Tongas, electric buses and electric tempos are preferred by those travelling to Taj Mahal.

Q: How can I find a tour guide in Agra?

A: You can book official tour guides (recognised and approved by the Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India) online or over call from the Office of Approved Guide Association Agra. Self-guided audio tour facility is also provided by the ASI at Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. You can even download one of the smartphone apps to tour the monuments.

Q: Are there any popular events held in Agra?

A: The 10-day long Taj Mahotsav held in February-March every year is one of the best events in Agra. The festival attracts art and culture enthusiasts from world over.

Q: Where can I go from Agra for a weekend?

A: Mathura and Vrindavan are among the most popular weekend getaways from Agra. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is another preferable option.

[showhotelbycity hotelcity=’Agra’]

Wonderful post! Agra is a very beautiful city and it is also famous for the Taj Mahal. There are so many historical and architectural views in the city. Thanks for this great article.

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7 Places to Visit in Agra + Things To Do

Agra is an ancient city in the state of Uttar Pradesh in India, which is almost equivalent to the Taj Mahal, its main attraction. It is your gateway to a beautiful era signified by several landmarks scattered throughout the city.

The Taj Mahal is undoubtedly beautiful. Its “embodiment of all things pure” etched an immortal mark in history. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 17th Century is well-preserved, rightfully making it a commanding sight in Agra. But the city is more than just about the Taj Mahal. Agra Fort, a massive sandstone 16th Century building along the banks of the Yamuna River, is another fantastic sight to behold. Other masterpiece attractions in Agra include Mariam’s Tomb, Itmad-Ud-Daula, and Ram Bagh.

New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, a primary gateway to some of the world’s best cities, is the nearest flight hub to Agra, about 220 kilometers away. From there, you can reach the city by train or bus.

1. Taj Mahal

Location : Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, India . Save on Google Maps .

Agra Travel Essentials:

Where to stay in Agra (click below to see rates and book online) Cheapest Rates | Best Reviews  | Home Rentals/Airbnb

Agra Tours & Discounts

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See also :   Places to visit in India |  Kolkata Attractions  |  Spots to See in Jaisalmer  |  Where to go in Jaipur  |  Things to do in Udaipur .

More travel tips coming up! In the meantine, enjoy this  quick list  of attractions and tourist spots in Agra. To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. I’ve also shared photos from my  Instagram feed . Use Instagram’s save feature for quick access to your travel/feed goals.

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2. Agra Fort (Red Fort)

3. Shahi Jama Masjid (Jama Mosque), Fatehpur Sikri

Location : Subash Bazar, Kinari Bazar, Hing ki Mandi, Mantola, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282003, India . Save on Google Maps .

4. Fatehpur Sikri Fort

Location : Buland Gate, Dadupura, Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh 283110, India . Save on Google Maps .

5. Agra Rooftop Views

6. Mehtab Bagh (Taj Mahal Viewpoint)

Location : near Taj Mahal, Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Nagla Devjit, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, India . Save on Google Maps .

7. Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daula (Baby Taj Mahal)

Location : Moti Bagh, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282006, India . Save on Google Maps .

Where to go beyond Agra

Location : Delhi, India . Save on Google Maps .

New Delhi Travel Essentials

Location : Rajasthan, India . Save on Google Maps .

Jaipur Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

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What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Agra that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Agra

Agra tourist spots, things to do in Agra, where to go in Agra & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Agra

Click below & search recommended Agra hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

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Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

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8 Most Famous Tourist Places to Visit in Agra

Prerna Gautam

As soon as we hear the name Agra, we are reminded of the Taj Mahal . However, the city is so much more than just this one beauty. Agra lies on the bank of the Yamuna river and it is 210 km from New Delhi . The place has an area of 121 km² and it is at an elevation of 170 m from sea level. Apart from the Taj Mahal, there are numerous monuments, mausoleums, parks, and bazaars to explore in the city. Agra can be visited for any kind of vacation with a family vacation, honeymoon trip with friends, or a solo trip.

There are many places to visit in Agra , most of the monuments, mausoleums, and structures are inspired by the Mughal, Persian, and local architectural styles.

A list of the most popular tourist places in Agra are:

• Fatehpur Sikri
• Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tom
• Akbar’s Tomb
• Moti Masjid
• Traditional Bazaars
• Mehtab Bagh

So let’s check out these most beautiful and interesting places to visit in Agra while you are in the city.

Must visit places in Agra

1. taj mahal.

Taj Mahal is the most famous monumental structure and tourist places in Agra. Along with this, it is one of the seven wonders of the world. The structure was built by Shahjahan for his wife Mumtaz and is considered to be a symbol of love . It is said that the bodies of Mumtaz Mahal and Shahjahan are buried under it.

It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and recognized all over the world. People from all over India and the world visit the place with friends, family, or alone. The structure is said to have been completed in 1653 and it is the finest and the most beautiful representation of Mughal architecture which makes it the best places to visit in Agra.

Timing: – 6:00 am to 6:30 pm every day except Fridays

Entry Fee: – Rs 50 per person for Indians, – Rs 1300 per person for Foreigners.

2. Agra Fort

The fort is not only beautiful and magnificent but also one of the most important forts built during the Mughal period. It was so important for Akbar that he called this fort his home which is one of the best tourist places in Agra . This fort is also a designated UNESCO World Heritage site and it is also known as Lal Qila. It is located 2.5 km from the Taj Mahal and has been constructed using red sandstone. The fort lies on the banks of the Yamuna river and it is believed that it was started by Emperor Akbar.

If you visit Agra Fort, then do visit Jehangir Mahal which is a beautiful palace. One can also visit other structures such as Angoori Bagh, Khas Mahal, Diwan-I-Khas, etc. One can also visit other structures such as Angoori Bagh, Khas Mahal, Diwan-I-Khas, etc.

Timing: 6 am to 6 pm every day

Entry Fee: -Rs 40 per person for Indians, -Rs 550 per person for foreigners

3. Fatehpur Sikri

This used to be the capital of the Mughal Empire at one point in time. The place was established by Akbar but later he abandoned it in 1610. It is built completely using red sandstones and is known for a huge structure called Buland Darwaza that goes up to the height of 54 m.

Fatehpur Sikri is located 40 km from Agra and this city is fortified from many directions. This is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and notable attractions here include Jodha Bai’s palace, Jama Masjid, Buland Darwaza, the tomb of Salim Chishti, etc.

This place reminds me of the beautiful and splendid art and architecture that medieval India is known for and one just cannot resist appreciating the beauty of the place it is one of the must visited tourist places in Agra.

Timing: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm every day except Fridays.

Entry Fee: -Rs 10 per person for Indians, -Rs 250 per person for Foreigners.

4. Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb

This tomb also lies on the banks of the Yamuna river and it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Agra. The interior designs have been built using white marbles from Rajasthan but red sandstone has been also used. The architecture and style seem to have been inspired by that of the Taj Mahal and therefore it is also known as Baby Taj. Noor Jehan 1628 built this tomb.

Entry Fee:  ₹10 for Indians, ₹110 for Foreigners

Timing:  6 am – 6 pm

5 . Akbar’s Tomb

This is structure was built by Jehangir in 1613. It has been built using red sandstone and also contains some marble designs. The ceilings and the calligraphy is very pleasing to the eyes.

It is located on Mathura Road, National Highway number 2, in a place called Sikandra . According to the legends, it is said that Akbar himself commemorated the construction of this tombce. The walls of the tombs have many inscriptions and it lies at a distance of 15 km from Taj Mahal is one of the beautiful tourist places in Agra.

Timing:  10 am to 6 pm every day except Fridays

Entry Fee: -Rs 15 per person for Indians. -Rs 110 per person for Foreigners

6 . Moti Masjid

One of the best tourist places in Agra is Moti Masjid, which is also known as the pearl mosque and it was built by Shahjahan in 1648. This mosque also lies on the bank of the Yamuna river and it is one of the best places to visit in Agra. The mosque looks very pleasing to the eyes with its shining white marbles that stand magically on a slope of the structure.

This mosque is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and its elevation is almost 72 m. There is also another Moti Masjid that is located in Delhi and it lies in the Red Fort complex.

Timing: 6 am to 6 pm

Entry Fee: -Rs 20 per person for Indians, -Rs 750 per person for Foreigners.

7. Traditional Bazaars

The local bazaars at Agra are unique for their handicrafts, food, glassware, leather, and textile. These markets are perfect for people who want to buy bags, silk products, silk saris, etc. One of the most famous bazaars is Kinari Bazaar .

Another famous market here is Sadar Bazar which is located near Agra Cantt. Railway station. Subhash Bazar is situated in Halwai Gali near Agra Fort and one should know how to negotiate to get great products at a very reasonable price. There is also Raja Ki Mandi which is the busiest shopping market in Agra. These are famous tourist places in Agra for sweets, jewelry, ladies’ items, household items, religious items, etc.

8. Mehtab Bagh, Agra

This was constructed long before the Taj Mahal by the Mughal king, Babur. This garden has a Charbagh style of construction. The bagh is situated on the north of the Taj Mahal complex and the Agra Fort and its area is said to be almost 300 x 300 m. It adds to the beauty of the Taj Mahal and the view of the sunset is magnificent which makes it one of the best places to visit in Agra.

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Planning an economical and comfortable trip to Agra

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For amazing discounts, purchase a book ticket online or  download the zingbus app . Don’t put it off any longer. Get your bookings done now!

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Didn't see the Northern Lights last night? There's a chance they'll be back tonight.

Sky watchers will get another chance to see the Northern Lights in Wisconsin later tonight after a large cloud plasma erupted into space, according to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center .

Particles from a coronal mass ejection arrived at Earth this weekend, causing this geomagnetic storm. As of Saturday afternoon, the sunspot still remains quite active and produced two or more flares in the past 12 hours, according to NOAA.

Here's what you need to know if you're trying to see the lights this weekend:

Can I see the Northern Lights in Wisconsin on Saturday night?

Northern lights may become visible over much of the northern half of the country again on Saturday night, according to NOAA.

For those in the Milwaukee area, afternoon clouds will thin out as the sun goes down and the evening skies will be mostly clear with some scattered clouds in the overnight hours, said Tim Halbach, local meteoroglist with the National Weather Service.

RELATED: Check out these photos from Wisconsinites who saw the Northern Lights last night

To monitor the aurora forecast, you can use the  NOAA aurora forecast tool , which has a 30-minute forecast window. There's also a tool on the Milwaukee Astronomical Society website at  www.milwaukeeastro.org .

On the tool, you'll see the Northern Lights prediction for 35 minutes ahead. You'll have good odds of seeing the Northern Lights if the color over Wisconsin is yellow, orange or even red.

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Wisconsin?

When northern lights are active, the best time to see them is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.

Where else will the Northern Lights be visible?

This aurora may become visible over most of the northern half of the country, like it did on Friday night, according to NOAA.

Here are some tips on how to see the Northern Lights:

Here are some viewing tips from Gene Hanson, observatory director for the  Milwaukee Astronomical Society :

• Head North:  The Northern Lights get their name for a reason. Hanson says that the aurora is bigger and more vibrant the farther north you go. “Even 60 miles north can make a tremendous difference,” Hanson says.
• Look for the horizon:  The northern horizon, that is. Hanson says that you want the most unobstructed view to the north that you can find. Again, they’re called the northern lights for a reason. The more north you can see, the more of the lights you could see.
• Move away from the light:  Light pollution is often the reason you can’t see stars when you’re in the city. So, get out and away from the city. Rural areas are best, and Hanson says that anywhere you can see the stars well will work, but the darker the better.

Where to view the night sky in Wisconsin:

Here's a list of places in Wisconsin that could offer some of the best views of the night sky:

• Newport State Park , Ellison Bay
• Driftless Wisconsin
• Harrington Beach State Park
• Kettle Moraine State Forest
• Kohler-Andrae State Park
• Parnell Tower

RELATED: Biggest astronomical events in 2024: Eclipses to meteor showers and full moon schedule

RELATED: For the best Northern Lights viewing in Wisconsin, try these places

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The Picture Show

Photos: see the northern lights from rare solar storm.

Geoff Brumfiel

Christchurch, New Zealand: People look at the Aurora Australis, also known as the Southern Lights, in Rolleston on May 11, 2024. Sanka Vidanagama/AFP/Getty Images hide caption

The largest geomagnetic storm in nearly two decades is hitting Earth's atmosphere . It's producing a beautiful glow in the sky all over the world.

A sunspot has sent a stream of charged particles towards Earth.

As those particles hit the Earth's atmosphere they will be heated and start glowing producing beautiful aurora.

South looks north, as solar storm brings auroras

Lisa Upton is with the Southwest Research Institute. Social media is already filling with photos from places like Finland, Russia, Germany and New Zealand, which catches the same effect in the southern hemisphere. It's not clear how far down in the U.S. the aurora will spread, but Upton is keeping an eye out in Colorado.

Space weather forecasters expect the solar storm to peak overnight, but it will last throughout the weekend.

Brunswick, Maine: The northern lights flare in the sky over a farmhouse, late Friday, May 10, 2024. Robert F. Bukaty/AP hide caption

Brunswick, Maine: The northern lights flare in the sky over a farmhouse, late Friday, May 10, 2024.

Estacada, Ore.: In this image taken with a long exposure, cars pass by as people look at the night sky towards the northern lights, or Aurora Borealis, on Friday, May 10, 2024, in Estacada, Ore. Jenny Kane/AP hide caption

Lake Berryessa, Calif.: The blinking lights of a plane streak through the aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, which is visible on May 11, 2024. Carlos Avila Gonzalez/San Francisco Chronicle/Getty Images hide caption

London, Ontario: People stop along a country road near London, Ontario to watch the Northern lights or aurora borealis during a geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. Geoff Robins/AFP/Getty Images hide caption

Brandenburg, Germany: Light green and slightly reddish auroras glow in the night sky. Patrick Pleul/dpa/picture alliance/Getty Images hide caption

Brandenburg, Germany: Light green and slightly reddish auroras glow in the night sky.

Whitley Bay, England: People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis, commonly known as the northern lights. Ian Forsyth/Getty Images hide caption

Crosby Beach, Liverpool, England: The aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, glow on the horizon at Another Place by Anthony Gormley. Peter Byrne/PA Images/Getty Images hide caption

Crosby Beach, Liverpool, England: The aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, glow on the horizon at Another Place by Anthony Gormley.

Saxony-Anhalt, Schierke, Germany: Northern lights can be seen from the Brocken. The natural spectacle is particularly intense on Saturday night. Matthias Bein/dpa/picture alliance/Getty Images hide caption

Rochester, N.Y: Northern Lights light up the sky on May 11, 2024. Lokman Vural Elibol/Anadolu/Getty Images hide caption

Hesse, Germany: Northern lights appear in the night sky over the Pferdskopf near Treisberg in the Hochtaunus district of Hesse. Lando Hass/dpa/picture alliance/Getty Images hide caption

Mount Mitchell, N.C.: Unusual sun activity created a G5 Geostorm on Earth sparks northern lights on May 10, 2024. Peter Zay/Anadolu/Getty Images hide caption

London, Ontario: Northern lights or aurora borealis illuminate the night sky near London, Ontario, during a geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. Geoff Robins/AFP/Getty Images hide caption

Debrad, Slovakia: Northern lights illuminate the sky May 11, 2024. Robert Nemeti/Anadolu/Getty Images hide caption

Eindhoven, Ukraine: Northern lights illuminate the sky in Eindhoven, Ukraine, May 10, 2024. Nikos Oikonomou/Anadolu/Getty Images hide caption

Liseleje, Denmark: Northern lights illuminate the sky in Liseleje, Denmark on May 11, 2024. Mohamed El-Shemy/Anadolu/Getty Images hide caption

Markville, Minnesota: The northern lights glow in the sky over St. Croix State Forest late Friday, May 10, 2024. Mark Vancleave/AP hide caption

Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine: Northern lights light up the sky May 11, 2024. Diego Herrera Carcedo/Anadolu/Getty Images hide caption

Skidmore, Missouri: Old tombstones stand against the northern lights at a cemetery early Saturday, May 11, 2024. Charlie Riedel/AP hide caption

Middletown, California: Northern lights illuminate the night sky over a camper's tent north of San Francisco on May 11, 2024. Josh Edelson/AFP/Getty Images hide caption

Middletown, California: Northern lights illuminate the night sky over a camper's tent north of San Francisco on May 11, 2024.

Estacada, Oregon: In this image taken with a long exposure, people look at the night sky towards the northern lights, or Aurora Borealis, on Friday, May 10, 2024. Jenny Kane/AP hide caption

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Northern lights in New England: What to expect Saturday night

The aurora borealis is visible in massachusetts and elsewhere across the u.s. amid an intense g5 geomagnetic storm, by sydney welch • published may 11, 2024 • updated on may 11, 2024 at 7:14 pm.

Friday night's aurora borealis light show resulted from the strongest solar storm since October 2003, with the northern lights spanning as far south as Miami!

The auroras are not expected to be as intense as Friday night in the coming days. But the sunspot that released the severe G5 geomagnetic storm , as well as a significant solar flare, is still active with more solar activity heading toward Earth.

Watch NBC10 Boston news for free, 24/7, wherever you are

Friday night's show reached a 9 on the K index scale. Saturday night's will be closer to a 7.

Get Boston local news, weather forecasts, lifestyle and entertainment stories to your inbox. Sign up for NBC Boston’s newsletters.

If you missed the light show last night, New England will have an opportunity Saturday night for viewing.

Clouds will coat the sky by dawn, so the best viewing time will be around 11 p.m.

Look toward the north as far away from light noise as possible. To the naked eye, you may see a green and pink glow.

More on the northern lights

Stunning photos of the aurora borealis over Mass., NH

Northern lights shine in Boston area, across New England

Powerful geomagnetic storm brings northern lights as solar flare sends X-ray energy

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Where to see northern lights Saturday night, what times they will be visible

A severe geomagnetic storm powered by five coronal ejections from the sun will result in a vivid aurora borealis. Here are some tips for seeing it this weekend.

This article has been updated to include a recap of Friday’s aurora activity and Saturday’s forecast.

One of the strongest geomagnetic storms in two decades hit Earth on Friday afternoon, with more activity continuing through the weekend.

Friday’s storm already brought beautiful northern lights displays as far south as Mexico. It also disrupted some power grids and radio and GPS communications, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Geomagnetic storms occur when the sun sends a punch of charged particles and parts of its magnetic field to Earth, often through eruptions from its surface called coronal mass ejections. This severe geomagnetic storm — rated a Level 5 out of 5 — resulted from numerous coronal mass ejections this week, some of which are catching up with one another as they hurtle through space.

Forecasters said the sun has launched additional coronal mass ejections , which could extend geomagnetic activity and displays of the northern lights through this weekend and into early next week.

Both Saturday and Sunday nights could offer more celestial viewing, though early Sunday morning and Sunday evening could be more promising, with displays as far south as Friday night if forecasts hold.

Here’s what you need to know about your chances to see the aurora and threats to satellite systems.

Where are the best places to see the northern lights this weekend?

The northern lights appeared unusually far south in the Northern Hemisphere on Friday night. People snapped photos in Italy, southern Switzerland and India. In North America, people reported sightings in Florida, Southern California and even Mexico.

In the Southern Hemisphere, aurora were photographed in Chile , Argentina and New Zealand , where they are known as aurora australis or the southern lights. Activity was exceptionally strong Friday night to Saturday morning Eastern time, hitting a Level of 5 out of 5.

Current NOAA models show geomagnetic storm activity will initially be less intense Saturday night. By the pre-dawn hours Sunday, however, storm activity may increase markedly, offering early risers a memorable display of the northern lights, especially after around 4 a.m. Eastern. The exact timing of the increase in storminess is very uncertain, though.

If the storm activity reaches a Level 4 or 5 early Sunday, which NOAA indicates is possible, the northern lights may become visible again in most of the United States.

A secondary peak in the current solar storms appears likely... pic.twitter.com/WMlbGKNfaB — NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (@NWSSWPC) May 12, 2024

When the storm activity increases, the aurora will tend to be most vibrant in northern areas and will become more faint to the south — in some places only visible through cameras.

“Cellphones are much better than our eyes at capturing light,” Brent Gordon, chief of NOAA’s Space Weather Services Branch, said in a news conference Friday. “Just go out your back door and take a picture with a newer cellphone, and you’d be amazed at what you see in that picture versus what you see with your eyes.”

If severe to extreme geomagnetic storm activity (Levels 4 and 5) lasts into the evening Sunday, the northern lights may continue to be visible unusually far south for yet another night.

Will the aurora be blocked by clouds?

Even if geomagnetic activity is high, clouds can block out the light show. Unfortunately, considerable cloud cover will blanket the Northeast and south-central United States, although some gaps in the cloud canopy are probable. Clear skies are most likely over the Midwest, Southeast and Western United States.

If you are in a cloud-free area, make sure you find a dark sky location away from city lights.

What will the aurora look like near me?

Not all auroras look the same. Some are undulating bright green and purple curtains, and others are a diffuse red and orange glow. The colors and structure of the aurora appear differently depending on the latitude and altitude.

Auroras are created when solar particles and plasma temporarily disturb Earth’s magnetosphere. Some solar particles get trapped along Earth’s magnetic field lines into the upper atmosphere. Here, they excite nitrogen and oxygen molecules and release photons of light in different colors. Excited oxygen atoms shine red when they are more than 120 miles above the surface and glow green from 60 to 120 miles. Excited nitrogen atoms give off pink or purple hues below 120 miles.

Dancing green or purple auroras are typically seen at higher latitudes. Lower latitudes usually see more red auroras because red occurs at higher altitudes and can be seen further away from the poles. If you’re in the mid-latitudes (in Virginia or Arizona, for example), your aurora may appear more red than those in Canada or Finland.

Will this affect communications systems or the power grid?

A severe geomagnetic storm can cause issues with power systems, spacecraft operations, radio communications and even pipeline systems, if not appropriately prepared for.

“Our role is to alert the operators of these different systems so that they’re aware and can take actions to mitigate these kinds of impacts,” Rob Steenburgh, a space scientist at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, said at a news conference Friday.

Steenburgh and his colleagues work with grid operators across North America to ensure high-voltage transmission lines can withstand the incoming surge of energy from the sun. Over past decades, engineers have built systems that can protect power lines rapidly and keep them online during geomagnetic storms.

Geomagnetic storms can also affect satellite and radio communications, sometimes interfering with signals transmitted in our ionosphere. Anyone using high-frequency radio in the aurora viewing zone may experience some disruptions, said Shawn Dahl, service coordinator for the Space Weather Prediction Center. Under some circumstances, the influx of solar particles can cause low-Earth orbiting satellites to drag lower into the atmosphere.

For the most part, individuals should not be affected or take extra precautions beyond what they might for a typical severe weather storm. If a power outage does occur, people should make sure they have batteries, weather radio and a generator, if necessary.

“They don’t need to do anything out of the extraordinary, if they’ve already got these measures taken care of, because these events are very rare,” Dahl said.

Jason Samenow contributed to this report.

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How to Observe the Northern Lights This Weekend

The Space Weather Prediction Center said solar activity would be high again on Saturday.

Northern Lights Glow in the Sky Amid Solar Storm

Powerful solar flare activity made the aurora borealis visible unusually far south..

[Laughing] Holy moly. I know. This — I thought it would just be over on the horizon a little — Behind us, too. Yeah. A little green on the horizon. Nothing like this. This is — This is like, ‘Oh, my god.’ Everywhere.

By Claire Moses

Keep an eye on the skies on Saturday night for what could be another dazzling display of nature — or not, depending on your location and weather conditions.

An unusual amount of solar flare activity means that the aurora borealis, or the northern lights, could continue to appear over the weekend.

The solar storm was a level 5 on Friday, which gave some star gazers a clear view of streaks of green, purple and red that arced across the skies. Those conditions are expected to continue, Mike Bettwy, the operations chief of the Space Weather Prediction Center, said on Saturday.

“It should be fairly similar to what we saw last night, maybe not as widespread but fairly close,” Mr. Bettwy said.

“Depending on how everything evolves,” he added, “tomorrow night might actually be better than tonight” for views of the aurora.

In areas with clear skies, the display on Sunday could be similar to what people witnessed on Friday.

If you’re in a place with a lot of bright lights — like a city — it’s going to be hard to see anything. And then there are other complications, like the weather.

Two weather systems on Saturday night could impair viewing of the solar display, said Bryan Jackson, a forecaster at the Weather Prediction Center.

The Northeast is likely to be overcast because of a cloud system that could stretch from the Midwest and center over Pennsylvania. Cloud coverage might also extend as far as Maine, with the potential to clear around New Hampshire.

“This event is strong enough that the Northeast United States pretty much universally has a good shot at seeing it,” Mr. Bettwy said. “It’s just a matter of making sure that the cloud cover is absent.”

A second storm system, which was predicted to produce a fair amount of rain and cloud coverage, is possible over the Southwest.

Mr. Jackson said Michigan was likely to have clear skies between waves of rain. Other regions of the country could have clear views, too.

“In Seattle, it was pretty clear last night and it looks to be pretty clear again,” Mr. Jackson said on Saturday. “Portions of the southern Rockies, portions of the southern Plains are not overcast, but not completely clear either.”

The lights were particularly brilliant over England on Friday, and images of the solar show awed onlookers in parts of Maine and Massachusetts.

A tip: If you are in a clear area, even south of where the aurora is forecast, snap a picture or record a video with your cellphone.

The sensor on the camera is more sensitive to the wavelengths produced by the aurora and may produce an image you can’t see with the naked eye.

Why is this happening?

A severe solar storm is brewing.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center on Friday issued a rare warning after a solar outburst reached Earth.

As nuclear reactions occur on the sun, it routinely expels material from its surface.

Officials said that the solar activity could potentially cause electrical outages or interfere with navigation and communication systems.

When is this happening?

The expelled material from the sun could reach Earth’s atmosphere by Friday afternoon or evening, officials said.

“What we’re expecting over the next couple of days should be more significant than what we’ve seen, certainly so far,” Mike Bettwy, the operations chief at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, said at a news conference on Friday.

What’s flaring up?

The Space Weather Prediction Center said on Friday night that we were experiencing an extreme solar storm, a level 5 , up from a level 4 earlier in the day .

The last extreme event happened in October 2003 and resulted in power failures in Sweden and damaged transformers in South Africa, the center said.

The current storm is caused by a cluster of sunspots — dark, cool regions on the solar surface. The cluster is flaring and ejecting material every six to 12 hours.

“We anticipate that we’re going to get one shock after another through the weekend,” said Brent Gordon, chief of the space weather services branch at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center.

Katrina Miller , Emmett Lindner and Judson Jones contributed reporting.

Claire Moses is a Times reporter in London, focused on coverage of breaking and trending news. More about Claire Moses

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