Agra is one of the most visited cities in India. Most travellers come here to see the Taj Mahal, but the city offers many more experiences. Agra has historical monuments, peaceful gardens, lively markets, street food, and a rich Mughal heritage. If you are visiting Agra for the first time, this guide will help you plan your trip easily. It covers the best time to visit, top attractions, ticket details, local markets, food suggestions, and useful travel tips. The aim is to help you explore Agra without confusion and enjoy the city at a comfortable pace.
Best Time to Visit Agra
Agra is a year-round destination, but some seasons feel more pleasant than others. The best months to visit are from October to March. During this time, the weather is cool and comfortable. The winter season also attracts many foreign travellers. Monsoon months like August and September are also fine because the temperature becomes moderate. The summer months between April and June are very hot, so early morning sightseeing is better. Late December and early January may have foggy mornings, so visiting the Taj Mahal slightly later in the morning helps.
Top Attractions in Agra
Agra has several important monuments and sightseeing spots. These places show the rich history of the Mughal era.
Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is the main attraction of Agra. Its white marble, symmetry, and peaceful atmosphere make it one of the finest monuments in the world. Early morning is the best time to visit because the light is soft and the crowd is less. The Taj Mahal remains closed every Friday.
Agra Fort
Agra Fort is a massive historical fort with huge gates, open courtyards, royal chambers, and shaded halls. It offers a beautiful view of the Taj Mahal from the inside. Late morning or afternoon is a good time to visit.
Mehtab Bagh
Located across the Yamuna River, Mehtab Bagh is a quiet garden with a perfect view of the Taj Mahal, especially during sunset. It is one of the best places for photography.
Itimad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj)
This monument is smaller than the Taj Mahal but has very detailed marble work. It is peaceful and great for slow walking.
Sikandra (Akbar’s Tomb)
Sikandra is surrounded by greenery and open space. The tomb of Akbar stands in the center with a grand gateway. Early evening is the ideal time to visit.
Fatehpur Sikri (Optional)
A UNESCO World Heritage site located near Agra. It has palaces, courtyards, and beautiful Mughal architecture. It is suitable if you have extra time or a second day.
How to Reach Agra
Agra is well connected by road, rail, and air.
By Car
Many travellers from Delhi use the Yamuna Expressway. The journey takes around three hours and the road quality is excellent.
By Train
Agra has multiple railway stations and receives trains from Delhi, Jaipur, Lucknow, Mumbai, Kolkata, and many other cities.
By Bus
Buses from Delhi and nearby cities are easily available.
By Air
Agra has an airport but flight options are limited. Most travellers fly to Delhi and take a car or train to Agra.
One Day in Agra: Simple Itinerary
Most travellers visit Agra for only one day. With a simple plan, you can see the main attractions without rushing.
Morning: Visit the Taj Mahal
Late Morning: Breakfast and a short break
Afternoon: Explore Agra Fort
Evening: Visit Mehtab Bagh or Sikandra
Night: Explore local markets and have dinner
This itinerary gives a balanced experience.
Entry Fees and Timings (Updated)
Different monuments in Agra have different entry fees and timings.
Taj Mahal
Indians: Around ₹50
Foreigners: Around ₹1100
Main mausoleum entry: Extra ₹200
Kids under 15: Free
Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
Closed: Friday
Agra Fort
Indians: Around ₹50
Foreigners: Around ₹650
Kids under 15: Free
Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
Mehtab Bagh
Entry: Around ₹30–₹100
Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
Sikandra
Entry: Around ₹30–₹200
Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
Where to Eat in Agra
Agra has many budget-friendly and family-friendly restaurants. You can find South Indian dishes like dosa and idli, simple Indian meals, thalis, and street snacks. For breakfast, many travellers prefer poori-sabzi, jalebi, or kachori. Most restaurants near central roads and market areas are safe and comfortable for families.
Where to Shop in Agra
Agra is well known for its markets and local handicrafts.
Sadar Bazaar
A lively evening market with street snacks, shops, and local crowd.
Kinari Bazaar
Famous for handicrafts, marble items, and souvenirs.
Marble Shops
Located on main roads and tourist areas, offering fine marble work and mini Taj models.
Old City Sweet Shops
Good for buying Petha and dalmoth.
Popular Foods to Try in Agra
Agra is famous for its simple yet tasty food items. Some local favourites include poori-sabzi, jalebi, kachori, Petha, and dalmoth. These items are easily available in most traditional sweet shops and street stalls.
Important Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
These tips help make your trip comfortable and safe.
- Visit Taj Mahal early morning
- Book tickets online to avoid queues
- Keep your phone charged
- Carry water and wear comfortable footwear
- Avoid quiet lanes late at night
- Use e-rickshaws, autos, or cabs for travel
- Avoid very pushy shopkeepers
- Keep your Taj Mahal ticket safe for QR scanning
- Keep some time for traffic near major roads
Estimated Budget for a One-Day Trip
A one-day trip to Agra is affordable for most travellers.
Approximate cost per person:
- Entry tickets: ₹130–₹350
- Food: ₹300–₹500
- Local transport: ₹200–₹600
- Shopping (optional): ₹1000+
This makes Agra a budget-friendly tourist destination.
Best Photo Spots in Agra
Many travellers visit Agra for photography. Some good spots include the Taj Mahal’s main platform, the Taj Mahal gardens, the terrace area in Agra Fort, the riverfront garden, and the large gate of Sikandra. The view of the Taj Mahal across the Yamuna River is also popular.
FAQs About Agra
Q1. Is Agra safe for tourists?
Yes. Main markets, hotel roads, and tourist areas are safe.
Q2. How many days are enough for Agra?
One day is enough for the main attractions. Two days are better if you want a relaxed trip.
Q3. Is the Taj Mahal open every day?
No. The Taj Mahal remains closed every Friday.
Q4. What should I avoid in Agra?
Avoid isolated areas at night, overcrowded shops, and peak afternoon heat.
Q5. Which place offers the best view of the Taj Mahal?
The riverside garden across the Yamuna provides a peaceful and beautiful view.
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