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Agra!

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Population

1.7 million

schedule

Best Time

October to March

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Time Needed

1-2 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (₹)

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location_on Uttar Pradesh map North India 🏛️ Heritage Heritage Travel Agra Taj Mahal Uttar Pradesh Mughal Architecture India Travel

Agra, situated in Uttar Pradesh, is globally renowned as the home of the Taj Mahal. This city showcases stunning Mughal architecture and intricate marble craftsmanship, drawing tourists from around the world. It's a popular stop on the Golden Triangle tourist circuit.

Agra's main draw is undoubtedly the Taj Mahal, a breathtaking monument to love. However, the city can be crowded and polluted, and persistent touts can be overwhelming. A quick visit allows you to see the highlights without overstaying its welcome. Despite the challenges, Agra offers a glimpse into India's rich history.

Agra is easily accessible by train and road from Delhi. A 1-2 day trip is sufficient to see the major attractions. Pre-booking accommodations and transportation is highly recommended, especially during peak season.

When To Visit

Best Time

October to March

22-32 degrees C

The weather is pleasant and dry, making it ideal for sightseeing. Clear skies offer the best views of the Taj Mahal.

Why Visit:

The cooler temperatures are perfect for exploring the city's historical sites without the discomfort of extreme heat. This is the peak tourist season, so expect vibrant cultural events and festivals. The Taj Mahal looks its best under the clear, sunny skies. It's the most comfortable time to explore the outdoors.

Tip: Expect higher prices for accommodations and transportation. Booking well in advance is essential to secure your preferred choices and avoid inflated costs.

Shoulder Season

July to September

30-35 degrees C

Monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and high humidity. The weather can be unpredictable, with occasional flooding.

Why Visit:

Fewer crowds and lower prices are the main draws. The monsoon rains can add a unique perspective to the monuments, with lush greenery surrounding them. However, outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather.

Tip: Check weather forecasts regularly and be prepared for potential disruptions to travel plans. Some attractions may have reduced hours or be temporarily closed.

Avoid

April to June

35-45 degrees C

Extreme heat makes it difficult to explore the city comfortably. Heatwaves are common, and outdoor activities can be dangerous.

Why Avoid:

The scorching heat makes sightseeing unpleasant and potentially risky. The Taj Mahal can be unbearably hot to the touch during the day. Tourist numbers are significantly lower, but the discomfort outweighs the benefits.

Note: If you must visit during this time, stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day. Opt for indoor activities and visit monuments early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Taj Mahal

⏱ 3-4 hours ₹50 (Indians), ₹1300 (foreigners)

The Taj Mahal is an ivory-white marble mausoleum commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. It houses the tomb of his favorite wife, Mumta...

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Agra Fort

⏱ 2-3 hours ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners)

Agra Fort is a historical fort in the city of Agra. It was the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty until 1638. The fort showcases a b...

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Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb (Baby Taj)

⏱ 1-2 hours ₹30 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb is a Mughal mausoleum often referred to as the "Baby Taj". It was commissioned by Nur Jahan, the wife of Jahangir, for her fath...

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Mehtab Bagh

⏱ 1-2 hours ₹20 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners)

Mehtab Bagh is a Mughal-era garden complex located directly across the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal. It was originally designed as a moonlit pleasu...

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Sikandra Fort

⏱ 1-2 hours ₹30 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

Sikandra Fort is the tomb of the Mughal emperor Akbar. The tomb is a blend of Hindu and Muslim architectural styles....

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Mariam's Tomb

⏱ 1 hour ₹20 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners)

Mariam's Tomb is the final resting place of Mariam-uz-Zamani, one of Akbar's wives and the mother of Jahangir. It showcases a blend of Hindu and Islam...

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Things To Do

attractions

Taj Mahal Sunrise Viewing Tour

⏱ 3-4 hours 💰 ₹1500-2500 per person

This tour takes you to the Taj Mahal before sunrise to witness the monument bathed in the golden light of dawn. It inclu...

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attractions

Mughal Heritage Walk

⏱ 2-3 hours 💰 ₹800-1200 per person

This walking tour takes you through the old city of Agra, exploring its Mughal heritage. It includes visits to historica...

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attractions

Cooking Class

⏱ 3-4 hours 💰 ₹1000-2000 per person

Learn to cook traditional Mughlai dishes in a hands-on cooking class. It includes instruction from a local chef, all ing...

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attractions

Hot Air Balloon Ride over Agra

⏱ 1 hour 💰 ₹12000-15000 per person

Take a hot air balloon ride over Agra and enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the Taj Mahal and other historical sites. T...

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Kalakriti Cultural & Convention Center - Mohabbat The Taj Show

2 hours | ₹1200-4000

This live theatrical performance tells the love story of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, the story behi...

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celebration

Visit a Marble Inlay Workshop

1-2 hours | Free (but expect to buy something)

Agra is famous for its marble inlay work, a craft that dates back to the Mughal era. Visit a local w...

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celebration

Attend a Qawwali Performance at Fatehpur Sikri (nearby)

2-3 hours | Free (donations appreciated)

Qawwali is a form of Sufi devotional music that is popular in India and Pakistan. Attend a Qawwali p...

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celebration

Explore Kinari Bazaar

2-3 hours | Free (shopping costs vary)

Kinari Bazaar is a vibrant and bustling market known for its wedding-related items, including fabric...

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celebration

Participate in a Religious Ceremony at a Temple

1-2 hours | Free (donations appreciated)

Visit a local temple and participate in a religious ceremony for a glimpse into Hindu traditions and...

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celebration

Attend a Classical Indian Dance Performance

1.5-2 hours | ₹500-1500

Experience the beauty and grace of classical Indian dance, such as Kathak. These performances often ...

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View all cultural experiences

Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Agra Petha
Agra Petha

A sweet made from white pumpkin, available at Panchhi Petha.

Mughlai Cuisine
Mughlai Cuisine

Rich and flavorful dishes like biryani and kebabs, best enjoyed at local restaurants.

Bedai and Jalebi
Bedai and Jalebi

A popular breakfast combination, try it at Devi Ram Sweets.

Paratha
Paratha

Stuffed flatbread, available at street food stalls throughout the city.

Where to Eat

Pinch of Spice

Pinch of Spice

₹₹₹

North Indian, Mughlai

📍 Fatehabad Road

A popular restaurant with a cozy ambiance and delicious food. Known for its excellent service and flavorful dishes. A great place for a special occasion.

Butter ChickenMutton Rogan Josh

₹1200-1500 for two

Esphahan (at The Oberoi Amarvilas)

Esphahan (at The Oberoi Amarvilas)

₹₹₹₹

Mughlai

📍 Taj Ganj

An elegant restaurant with a romantic ambiance and stunning views of the Taj Mahal. Offers a fine dining experience with impeccable service. Perfect for a special celebration.

Dal EsphahanBiryani

₹4000-5000 for two

Street Food Spots

Sadar Bazaar

Sadar Bazaar

💰 Budget: ₹50-150 per person

⚠️ Tips: Be cautious of hygiene and drink bottled water only. Visit during the day when it's more crowded.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Agra

More restaurants & dishes from Agra

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Taj Ganj

The area closest to the Taj Mahal, offering a variety of hotels and restaurants. It can be crowded and touristy but convenient. Best for first-time visitors.

Best For: First-time visitors, proximity to Taj Mahal

Fatehabad Road

A wider area with a mix of hotels, shops, and restaurants. It's less crowded than Taj Ganj but still easily accessible to the main attractions. Good for families.

Best For: Families, quieter atmosphere

Accommodation Options

Budget

💰

₹400-800/night

Joey's Hostel Agra

📍 Taj Ganj

A popular hostel with a social atmosphere and clean dorms. Offers rooftop views of the Taj Mahal.

₹400-800/night

Zostel Agra

📍 Taj Ganj

Well-maintained hostel with private rooms and dorms. Features a common area and travel assistance.

₹500-900/night

Mid-Range

🏨

₹2500-4000/night

Hotel Taj Resorts

📍 Taj Ganj

Comfortable rooms with modern amenities, close to the Taj Mahal. Offers a restaurant and rooftop terrace.

₹2500-4000/night

The Retreat

📍 Fatehabad Road

A boutique hotel with well-appointed rooms and a relaxing atmosphere. Features a swimming pool and spa.

₹3000-5000/night

Luxury

₹30000+/night

The Oberoi Amarvilas Agra

📍 Taj Ganj

A luxurious hotel with stunning views of the Taj Mahal from every room. Offers world-class service and amenities.

₹30000+/night

ITC Mughal, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Agra

📍 Fatehabad Road

A palatial hotel inspired by Mughal architecture. Features lush gardens, multiple restaurants, and a spa.

₹15000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Agra Airport (AGR), 7km from city

train

By Train

Stations:

Agra Cantt (AGC)

Main railway station, well-connected to major cities.

Agra Fort (AF)

Another station, convenient for those staying near the fort.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 2-3 hours (₹400-1500)
  • From Mumbai: 16-20 hours (₹800-3000)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Idgah Bus Stand
  • ISBT Agra
Routes:
  • From Delhi: 4-5 hours (₹300-700)

Note: Trains more comfortable

Getting Around

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

💰 ₹50-200 depending on distance

Best for: Short distances, negotiating prices

Bargain hard before getting in. Agree on the price beforehand.

directions

Taxi/Uber/Ola

💰 ₹150-500 depending on distance

Best for: Comfort, fixed prices, longer distances

Uber/Ola often cheaper and more reliable than taxis.

directions

E-rickshaw

💰 ₹30-100 depending on distance

Best for: Environmentally friendly option, short distances in Taj Ganj

Good for getting around the Taj Mahal area, but can be slow.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Wear light, breathable clothing, especially during the summer months. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1500, Mid: ₹3000, Luxury: ₹5000+

ATMs: Widely available

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for smaller transactions, cards accepted at larger establishments

Bargaining: Expected in markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water only. Avoid ice from unknown sources.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from questionable vendors.

Common Issues: Delhi belly is common, bring Immodium. Carry sunscreen and insect repellent.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio offer good coverage, purchase at the airport or local stores. Requires passport and visa.

WiFi: Available at most hotels and restaurants

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few Hindi phrases is helpful.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹50-100

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