Tourist Attractions in Agra

Agra

City of Uttar Pradesh, 222 km from Delhi

must-see attraction

Visit duration: People typically spend 1 to 1.5 days here

Places to visit in Agra

About Agra City

Travel back to the era of Mughals as you walk down the streets of Agra filled with royal pavilions. Agra with its neighbouring cities of Delhi and Jaipur form the Golden Triangle of India, a famous tourist circuit of the north.

Agra was the capital of the Mughal empire at the outset of their ruling era. The city is located on the banks of the river Yamuna. It sustains the rich and ancient heritage of India and it is reflected in the nooks and corners of the city.

Agra is a treasure trove of regal architecture, rich culture, history and art. The city is the home to one of the seven wonders of the world, the majestic Taj Mahal.

History of Agra

Agra, the very name of the city, starts a slideshow of Mughal architecture in front of your eyes. However, even before the advent of the Mughals, Agra was there in all its glory.

The story of the city can be divided into two parts.

Before the Mughal empire was established in Agra, it was discovered by Sikandar Lodhi of the Sultanate dynasty. Sultan Ibrahīm Lodi, son of Sikandar Lodi, continued to rule until he lost the battle with Babur, the first Mughal ruler in India. It was then that Agra came under the authority of the Mughal empire.

Under the reign of the Mughal empire, the culture of the city flourished and reached its zenith. It is often referred to as the Golden Age where the city saw the construction of marvellous architectural wonders and the flourishing of trade. During the reign of Aurangzeb, the last Mughal ruler, the empire began to lose its grasp over the city. Soon the city came under the influence of the Marathas until the beginning of the Imperial Rule when the British were in charge of the city.

After Independence, Agra became an independent city of the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.

Facts and tips about Agra

• Agra was once known as Akbarabad during the reign of the Mughal empire. The Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan named the city to honour his grandfather, Akbar.


• The Sanskrit meaning of the Agra translates to the term Agravana which means grove forest.


• The Jats, the ruler of Gwalior, and the East India Company gained temporary authority over the city between the Mughal empire and the Imperial rule.


• At the victory of the battle of Panipat, the clan of Gwalior was not slaughtered, so to show their gratitude the clan gifted Humayun with jewels among which one of the jewels was the ‘koh-i-noor’ diamond.


• The celebration of art and culture continues to prevail in Agra, and one of the annual events is the Taj Mahotsav which celebrates the craftsmanship of the natives of the city. It takes place near the Taj Mahal for ten days in February.


• Agra is the birthplace of the religion of Dīn-i Ilāhī. Shauripur of Jainism and Runukta of Hinduism, of 1000 BC, the Radhaswami Faith also has historical linkage to the city.


• A trip to Agra must include these necessities in your bag: umbrella, wide-brim hat, comfy shoes and sun protection cream.

Sleeping in Agra

Accommodations in Agra range from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious ones. Here’s a list of hotels that you can consider staying in while visiting Agra.

The Coral Court Homestay

The lodging is just a 15 minutes walk away from the Taj Mahal. The owner is a travel enthusiast who wants her fellow travellers to enjoy their trip blended with relaxation while enjoying the experience of a homestay. With a lush green natural forest situated beside the lodging, you can enjoy walking among nature, bird watching and the view of the Taj Mahal is also available from the lodging. The Coral Court Homestay is safe for single lady travellers.

Hotel Trident Agra

Enjoy your stay at Agra by lodging at one of the closest hotels to the Taj Mahal. Spend your days at leisure among beautifully landscaped gardens and water fountains. Hotel Trident is built with local red bricks to let you experience the royal atmosphere of the Mughal era while enjoying an internet connection at high speed. A fun zone available for the kids to enjoy that comprises the play area, games and tents to enjoy their childhood trips.

Hotel DoubleTree by Hilton

Within 3 km of reach of the Taj Mahal, the monument can be perceived from the infinity pool of the hotel. Enjoy the literal concept of lazing around by getting yourself of spa treatment or stay focussed on your workout plan with the 24-hour availability of a fitness centre. Enjoys your meals with a courtyard view. Be it a business trip or a vacation of leisure, Hotel DoubleTree By Hilton provides amenities that facilitate all purposes.

Taj Hotel

The reputation proceeds by its name. Taj Hotel is a 5-star hotel that lives up to its standard, offers the experience of modern Agra mixed with the character of the ancient royal era of the city. The location of the hotel gives you the advantage to celebrate the city and commemorate your journey. Savour the experience of the rooftop infinity pool, swimming not only under the open sky but also at great heights. Be it an event gathering in Agra or just time off from daily life, feel the luxury of the royals at the Taj Hotel.

Hotel Courtyard by Marriott

Internationally renowned for its services, the iconic Hotel Courtyard by Marriott is situated on the famous Fatehabad Road. All the major tourist attractions of Agra are just minutes away from the hotel. Get sunk in the pool, or lose your stress at their spas after a hectic trip throughout the city. Versatile indoor and outdoor events, an entertainment zone for the little ones, marble bathrooms and plush beddings, and innovative and divine cuisine to treat yourself and your closed ones. The perfect place to enjoy your vacation in a sophisticated style.

See more hotels in Agra 

Eating in Agra

A royal city like Agra houses several restaurants where you can enjoy a royal feast. Enjoy the delicacies of the Mughal cuisine, along with international dishes from around the world as you take a tour around the city.

Restaurant The Salt Cafe Kitchen & Bar

This multicuisine restaurant is located in Tajganj, Agra. The collection of the menu ranges from north Indian dishes to continental, Chinese to Italian and finger food. The restaurant opens at noon. The must try items are paneer Lahori masala, Dahi ke sholey, along with international serves of Dragon Bowl, Szechuan Chicken and Mezze Platter. You can also choose to have your meal under the sky.

Restaurant Chokho Jeeman

The cuisine theme of the restaurants is Rajasthani. It is situated in Civil Lines, Agra. The opening time of the restaurant opens from 8.45 am to 3.50 pm and in the evening it is from 6.30 pm to 10.25 pm. The dishes are authentic and vegetarian. The food tastes light and prevents any sort of indigestion for travellers. The Maharaja Thali indeed lives up to its name and is a must-try.

Tea’se Me Rooftop Cafe

Lounge among the aesthetic decoration of nature under the sky. This rooftop restaurant opens at noon and closes at midnight. It is located in Tajganj, Agra. Book a table if you plan to dine at the restaurant. The popular dishes of the restaurant are Chilli Potatoes, Pomodoro Pasta, Mozzarella Sticks, Ice Tea and Chocolate Dessert. The other cuisines on the menu are Continental and North Indian along with Chinese and Italian.

Cafe Sheroes Hangout

This cafe demands a call out for art lovers, surround yourself with books and sketches as you enjoy the taste of simplicity. The menu of the cafe is vegetarian that includes Fast Food, Chinese and North Indian. The place is open from 10.00 am to 9.00 pm and is situated at Tajganj, Agra. The place is known for its ‘pay-what-you-want service’ that is run by acid attack survivors.

The Chapter Kitchen Restaurant

The restaurant can be located in Khandari, Agra. The place opens at 3.00 pm and service is available till midnight. The menu is a combination of diverse cuisine from Italian to Mexican, the place also serves North Indian, Continental and Dessert, Bakes and Beverages. Their must-try dishes are Tandoori Pizza, Paneer Tikka, Mocktails, Pasta and Fries. The place provides indoor seating, live sports screening and a rooftop view. The restaurant also serves sushi.

Other cities near Agra

• Fatehpur Sikri - 39 km
• Keoladeo National Park - 59 km
• Chand Baori (Abhaneri) - 161 km
• Delhi - 222 km
• Jaipur - 239 km

FAQs about Agra

1. Will one day suffice for touring the entire city?

The city has several historical places that you can visit, so it is better to take your time to enjoy the place. However, if you plan well, one to one and a half days is good enough to cover the must-see tourist attractions like Taj Maha and Agra Fort.

2. When was the capital of the Mughal empire shifted from Agra?

In 1648, Mughal emperor Shah Jahan shifted the empire’s capital from Agra to Delhi. Although the capital was again shifted to Agra temporarily during Aurangzeb's rule.

3. Which is the best time to visit Agra?

It is very hot in summer which makes it more difficult to enjoy walking at the historical sites. The winter months of November to March are the time to visit Agra. However, the city is more crowded in the winter months, so book everything beforehand to avoid last-minute hassles.

4. Is Agra safe for solo travellers?

Yes, Agra is a safe city. However, keep in mind that you should be cautious about your belongings all the time to avoid losing them.