Places to Visit in Agra is an icon of India, drawing millions of tourists 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 Center 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.
Taj Mahal
It took 21 years, 32 million rupees and 20000 artisans to build the ivory white mausoleum. Plan to stay near the Taj, buy the ticket online and queue up at sunrise to be among the first few to enter the complex. Best time to visit: Sunrise. The monument is closed to public on Fridays. Reasonable time to be spent: 120 minutes Tips: You can view the Taj Mahal at night five times in a month i.e. on full moon night, on the two nights before and on the two nights after the full moon. Tickets have to be purchased the day before at Archaeological Survey of India office on Mall Road, Agra.
Agra Fort
This fort served as the primary residence of the Mughal royals before the capital was moved from Agra to Delhi in 1638. Top sights include the room where Shah Jahan spent his last days as a prisoner, – and – the Sheesh Mahal – with breathtaking glass-mosaic work on its walls and ceiling. Best time to visit: The fort is open from sunrise to sunset. Reasonable time to be spent: 120 to 180 minutes Tips: Hire a local guide to regale you with facts and anecdotes from the lives of the Mughal emperors and queens.
Fatehpur Sikri
The city with fine Indo – Islamic architecture was established by Emperor Akbar between 1572 and 1585. It contains a mosque still in use, palaces for the queens and many courtyards. Do spend time at Anup Talao, an ornamental pool with a central platform. This was the spot where the legendary singer of Akbar’s court ,Tansen sat and performed different ragas through the day. Best time to visit: Early morning Reasonable time to be spent: 180 minutes Tips: Do not forget to carry a bag to keep your shoes as you will need to take them off to enter the mosque.
Mehtab Bagh
This park offers best view on the Taj from across the Yamuna river. An ideal spot for photographers who want a panoramic shot of the Taj devoid of crowds. Best time to visit: Sunset Reasonable time to be spent: 30 to 45 minutes
Tomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah
It is a Mughal mausoleum in the historical city of Agra. It is often referred to as the “jewel box” or the “Baby Taj” as it might have served as the first draft for the glorious and beautiful Taj Mahal. Thus one can imagine that this tomb will also be no less magnificent and beautiful and it surely lives up it. Best Agra trips are surely incomplete without a visit to this tomb that spurs the Islamic architecture.
Moti Masjid
The masjid was built by the Mighty Mughal rules Shah Jahan which took four years to be built. North of Diwan-i-Aam complex, the Moti Masjid is one of the many architectural wonder that Shah Jahan had built during his reign. The name of the masjid “Moti” means “pearl” which comes from the color of the masjid as it is completely build with pearl like or sparkling white marble which gives the extra ordinary glow and makes it stand out from all other architecture, it is surely a treat to the eye.
Sikandra Forts
Built in red sandstone the beauty of this place is beyond the measure of time. One of the best things to do at Agra is to visit this fort to understand and witness the amalgamation of Hindu and Islamic architecture which fantastic creation.
The fort is well preserved and has high walls with pillars and complicated designs throughout the fort and a large well maintained and well planned garden which displays the grandeur of the fort and the rich artistry.
The tomb of Akbar is located inside this Fort. Thus Best Agra packages without a doubt has this location as a must visit tourist spot.
