Top Historic Monuments to visit in Agra is an old city, yet contemporary in nature. It is situated in the state of Uttar Pradesh and is full of life and chaos. It has a lot of historical significance and is very lively and full of splendor. It is a city that houses numerous historical monuments, palaces, ancient forts and hot and stunning historical tourist spots. The scenic spots and historical places of Agra are very spectacular, striking, impressive and charming. Agra travel in India is equally magical, pleasing and pleasurable to the human eyes.
Also, the city is well known for its inheritance, social practices and proud, gallant, polished, lustrous, divine and celebrated past. Agra is the past capital of the Mughal Empire and has also been mentioned in the great epic called Mahabharata. It is famous all over the globe for being home to one of the wonders of the world, which is the Taj Mahal, the symbol of true love between a Mughal King and Queen. It took around a time period of twenty years and about twenty two thousand workers to build it Agra Tour Packages.
Once the capital of the Mughal Empire, beyond the iconic Taj Mahal, you can visit five more places to discover Agra’s glorious history: Agra Fort, Mehtab Bagh, Itmad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb (the “Baby Taj“), Akbar’s Tomb, and Fatehpur Sikri. Apart from the Mughal monuments, don’t miss Wildlife SOS if you are an animal lover.
Among our suggested seven places, the first four places (The Taj, Agra Fort, Mehtab Bagh, Baby Taj) could be visited in one day. For a longer visit to Agra, Akbar’s Tomb, Fatehpur Sikri, and Wildlife SOS are great excursions, which are just 1 hour’s driving from the Taj Mahal.
Agra’s occupied and busy markets are good places to shop and eat. The food found there is simply marvellous, mouth-watering and astoundingly tasty. There are a variety of Agra tourism attractions and scenic spots in Agra that pull heavy crowds and draw tourists from all sides of the world including India. It is a perfect travel destination for the tourists, wherein they can unwind, loosen up a bit and spend a good time with their family members.
Taj Mahal
If you’re looking for places to visit in Agra, the Taj Mahal will certainly top the list. But it is certainly a place that lives up to its hype!
This stunning monument was commissioned by Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for and tribute to his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It is often celebrated as a symbol of enduring love, and its iconic domed silhouette has long drawn visitors to India.
While the Taj itself has plenty of wonders to explore, it’s also worth taking some time to explore the larger complex around it. The Taj Mahal Gardens are particularly notable not only for their beauty, but also for their symbolism.
With their intricately arranged plants and water features, they are designed to emulate the Islamic description of Paradise. And as you wander around the area and take in the full view of the towering marble dome, the comparison may seem very apt!
There are plenty of guided tours of the compound, which can often be combined with trips to the Agra Fort. Even if you’re staying in other areas, you can easily travel to this beloved site.
There are a variety of Taj Mahal tours departing from Delhi (four hours north) or Jaipur (four hours to the west), ranging from shorter day trips to multi-day adventures.
Some standout options include a private tour by car from Jaipur, with additional stops at the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah and Agra Fort, or an express train from Delhi, which allows you to take in the sights and experience the famous local railways.
- Highlights of the Tour: This is among the top places to see in Agra for all travellers. Just enjoy this beautiful white marble monument which is one of the world’s wonders.
- Things to Do: Enjoy the serene and beautiful architecture and relax in this peaceful environment.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March every year
- Peak Season: There is a heavy rush during weekends
- Nearest city: Agra
- How to Reach: One can take an auto or private taxi to reach this place from any area in Agra. Further, Agra can be reached in several ways. You can take a vehicle from Delhi or a train to reach here. Further Delhi is connected through air, road and rail network.
- Languages Spoken: Hindi, Urdu, and English
- Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
- Timings: Open on all days (except Friday and public holidays) from sunrise to sunset. Open at Night from 8:30 pm to 12:30 am on a Full moon night, two days before and after.
Agra Fort
There’s probably no better place to start your visit than at the Agra Fort, which, as the name suggests, got its start as a defensive structure for past rulers. But there is so much more to this UNESCO World Heritage Site than just its impressive red sandstone facade.
It’s jam-packed with important palaces and historical monuments, all of which can be enjoyed during a comprehensive tour. With so many amazing spots in and around the complex, you can easily spend the whole day exploring!
Stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens of Anguri Bagh, or visit the spectacular gold-accented halls of Diwan-I-Am, where Emperor Shah Jahan used to meet with his citizens Top Historic Monuments to visit in Agra.
Admire the striking architecture and impressive size of the Jahangir Palace, which once housed the women of the royal family; or check out the striking octagonal tower of Musamman Burj, which offers perfect views of the nearby Taj Mahal.
And be sure to stop by the Nagina Masjid, a magnificent mosque best known for its three beautiful white domes. Spend a few hours (or even a day) exploring the compound; it’s a great way to start exploring the city’s phenomenal history!
- Highlights of the Tour: Exploring the vast fort and red stone construction.
- Things to Do: Enjoy the architecture. Further shop for souvenirs in many stalls around the fort.
- Best Time to Visit: All around the year
- Peak Season: During months of summer
- Nearest City: Agra
- How to Reach: You can visit this place by taking a taxi or rickshaw or auto from any place in the city of Agra. Further, you can hire your own vehicle from Delhi too in case you want to reach the city and do sightseeing here.
- Languages Spoken: Hindi, Urdu, and English
- Ideal Trip Duration: Half a day is sufficient
- Timings: Open all days from 6:00 am to 5:30 pm.
Itmad-ud-Daula
Rough drafts are notorious for being less polished or attractive than their counterparts… unless, of course, it’s the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah.
Sometimes referred to as “Baby Taj,” this beautiful mausoleum was often considered a precursor to its more famous counterpart. But it also boasts some pretty impressive details of its own, including beautiful towers and a distinctive square top.
Like the Taj, the building is made out of white marble and garnished with semiprecious stones, an impressive testament to the changing architectural styles of the empire.
Check out the inside to see the crypts belonging to Mirza Ghiyas Beg – who served the royal family for many years – and his wife, housed in a soaring chamber whose designs pay tribute to the area’s Perisian influence.
And keep an eye out for all of the other remarkable artistic details scattered around the interior, including beautiful paintings of plants and animals and colorful, eye-catching mosaics.
This splendid building is a great piece of architecture in and of itself, and a perfect stop as you make your way through all of the remarkable buildings in town Top Historic Monuments to visit in Agra.
- Highlights of the Tour: One should visit here to enjoy the white marble monument.
- Things to Do: Sit back and relax and enjoy the architectural marvel here.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February every year
- Peak Season: May to July
- Nearest City: Agra
- How to Reach: You can take an auto or taxi to reach here from any area in Agra or hire a vehicle from Delhi to visit here. You can take a rickshaw from any spot in Agra to navigate here.
- Languages Spoken: Hindi, Urdu, and English
- Ideal Trip Duration: 2 hours
- Timings: Open on all days from sunrise to sunset.
Fatehpur Sikri
Just north of Agra, the town of Fatehpur Sikri is filled with remarkable buildings and interesting sites.
The town – whose name translates to “City of Victory” – was the capital of the Mughal Empire for a time during the late 1500s, and its design reflects the diverse influences on the area during that time.
The buildings are a unique blend of Hindu and Islamic styles, a result of the widespread religious tolerance and intellectual curiosity of the era.
Check out the striking ruins of various buildings that were once the center of the empire, including the Fatehpur Sikri Mosque, which was patterned after Mecca, and Buland Darwaza, an immense monument to military victory.
Buland Darwaza is particularly striking; it is one of the tallest gateways on the planet, and with its massive marble and sandstone structure towering above the surrounding buildings, it makes quite a vivid impression.
The structure was originally built by Emperor Akbar to commemorate his victory in Gujarat, and today, it serves as the entryway to the beloved Jama Masjid Mosque. You can also spend plenty of time simply wandering past the remains of various buildings around the site, ranging from administrative offices to temples.
Each and every one of them speaks to the deep and fascinating history of this remarkable city, and they’ll make you see the modern-day cities nearby in a whole new light Top Historic Monuments to visit in Agra.
- Highlights of the Tour: Admire the magnificent Mughal architecture.
- Things to Do: Enjoy the red stone construction and Mughal royalty here through this monument.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February every year
- Peak Season: Weekends
- Nearest City: Agra
- How to Reach: One can visit by taking a private taxi or auto from Agra city. Further, you can opt to take a cab or vehicle from Delhi, the national capital to reach this place.
- Languages Spoken: Hindi, Urdu, and English
- Ideal Trip Duration: 3 hours on average
- Timings: Open all days from sunrise to sunset.
Tomb of Akbar the Great
As the name suggests, the Tomb of Akbar the Great is the final resting place of one of the region’s most renowned emperors, and it’s a monument both to his work and the cultural norms of the time.
Located in the Sikandra suburb, this beautiful structure of marble and sandstone was commissioned by Emperor Akbar I, who oversaw significant civic and cultural advancements.
He is perhaps best known for helping to bolster the strength of the Mughal Empire, and the tomb pays tribute to his respected status, as well as his Muslim faith Top Historic Monuments to visit in Agra.
Its palatial exterior is only matched by the phenomenal designs on the inside. Jaw-dropping geometric designs in shades of blue and gold cover several walls, alongside beautiful floral patterns that wind over archways.
Through every door and around every corner, you’re treated to magnificent art that showcases the strong Islamic stylistic influence at the time. The surrounding grounds are also worth visiting, with a series of beautiful gardens to explore. Keep an eye out for the tame monkeys and deer!
- Highlights of the Tour: Take a guide for sure with you to understand the history and significance of this area.
- Things to Do: Understand the history and beliefs of this place and admire the architecture.
- Best Time to Visit: September to February of every year.
- Peak Season: Weekends
- Nearest City: Agra
- How to Reach: You can take an auto or taxi to reach here if you are in the city of Agra. It is not very easy to find public transport within the city of Agra. The other option would be to take a private vehicle from Delhi to reach here.
- Languages Spoken: Hindi, Urdu, and English
- Ideal Trip Duration: 2 hours
- Timings: Open on all days from sunrise to sunset.
Jama Masjid
Just across from the Agra Fort, Jana Masjid is a spectacular monument in its own right. As one of the largest mosques in India, it boasts a fascinating array of architectural gems, from massive domes to striking geometric designs.
Since its construction in the 17th century, it has been a focal point of the local Muslim community, and a renowned landmark all throughout the city.
Not only is it another wonderful example of Islamic architecture, but it also showcases the opulence and attention to detail that made so many of the area’s buildings famous. And because it is still an active mosque, you can learn all about the evolution of the religion during your visit Top Historic Monuments to visit in Agra.
Whether you’re drawn to the religious history, the design elements, or both, this iconic site is a must-see!
- Highlights of the Tour: The famous prayer hall is one of the largest in the country.
- Things to Do: Witness the prayers and make offerings.
- Best Time to Visit: Fridays
- Peak Season: Fridays are the best time to visit, it is also peak time too.
- Nearest City: Agra
- How to Reach: You can take a vehicle from Delhi to reach this place. Further Delhi can be easily accessed by rail, road or air network.
- Languages Spoken: Hindi, Urdu, and English
- Ideal trip Duration: 3 hours.
Moti Masjid
Even by the high standards of the other buildings in town, Moti Masjid is pretty spectacular. Known as “The Pearl Mosque,” its pure white marble exterior is matched only by the beauties within, including Sheesh Mahal.
This magnificent space – which roughly translates to “The Palace of Mirrors” -, is truly stunning, with its ceilings and walls adorned with an array of glistening mirrors Top Historic Monuments to visit in Agra.
As you walk through the middle of this remarkable room, you’ll be able to see the way that the light catches each piece, causing every corner to shine no matter the time of day.
It’s another great way to view the spectacular work of the Mughal Empire’s early builders, but be warned – you may want to stay in those opulent rooms all day!
- Highlights of the Tour: Check out the night view of the mosque which glitters.
- Things To Do: Witness the prayers and offerings at this mosque.
- Best Time To Visit: All around the year
- Peak Season: Festival times
- Nearest City: Agra
- How To Reach: You can visit this tourist place to visit in Agra easily by taking a private vehicle or auto to reach here.
- Languages spoke: Hindi, Urdu, and English
- Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 hours
Sikandra Fort
Just next door to Emperor Akbar’s final resting place, Sikandra Fort boasts phenomenal designs and spectacular history.
Like the tomb itself, it was commissioned by the emperor before his death, so you can see many of the same architectural features encompassed in its impressive red facade Top Historic Monuments to visit in Agra.
You could easily spend an entire day just wandering the grounds, taking a crash course in the history of the empire’s cultural and artistic tastes.
Be sure to check out the four magnificent gates around the property, each with a unique style and function; and don’t miss out on the spectacular fountains!
Mehtab Bagh
The Mehtab Bagh, or Moonlight Garden, is a beautifully-landscaped garden located alongside the Yamuna River opposite the Taj Mahal.
Perfectly aligned with the gardens of the Taj Mahal, it is the perfect place to snap sunset pictures of the Taj. Away from the crowds, you can enjoy the Taj (from a distance) in relative peace.
It is said that Emperor Shah Jahan intended to build himself “the Black Taj” there to mirror the Taj Mahal, his wife’s mausoleum, so that he could still look upon his wife’s monument across the river after death. However, he failed to do this as he was placed under house arrest by his so Top Historic Monuments to visit in Agran.
Chini Ka Rauza
Since it was constructed in 1635, Chini Ka Rauza has served as a fantastic example of the area’s multicultural influences. This mausoleum stands out from its contemporaries because of the materials used in its design: porcelain tiles Top Historic Monuments to visit in Agra.
These beautiful blue pieces are believed to have come from China, a symbol of Agra’s past as a thriving trade hub. And if you look closely at the designs in and around the building, you’ll see plenty of design details from Perisa, as well as Afghanistan.
Stop by to see these fantastic elements up close, then head over to nearby attractions such as the Taj Mahal and Itimad-ud-Daulah.
