Do you fantasize about viewing a monument representing endless love? Agra embraces history through its every nook and cranny, making each site narrate on its account. The city of love contains many amazing things to do in Agra, famous architectural marvels such as the Taj Mahal, and active local markets, which you would love if you’re a shopaholic. Experience the must-do activities in Agra which transformed this city into a mandatory travel destination. Whether you are a historian, a foodie or an adventure enthusiast, the city of Agra contains attractions that attract people from all different interest groups. With us, you can effortlessly plan your Agra trip to turn your dream travels into reality.
Best Things To Do In Agra
Visiting Agra means more than just exploring the best places or simply seeing monuments but also encountering various engaging activities throughout their journey. The following guide covers famous things to do in Agra while presenting various day and evening activities that you can do. Every visitor will discover something to cater to their interest in the wide range of activities that Agra has to offer.
1. See the eternal beauty of the Taj Mahal
Every tourist trip to Agra is incomplete without a visit to the Taj Mahal because this masterful monument stands both as a symbol of love and an architectural masterpiece, making it one of the most famous places to visit in Agra. People marvel at the Taj Mahal because Shah Jahan built this masterpiece out of white marble while honouring his deceased love Mumtaz Mahal. You can admire this breathtaking sight since it contains intricate carvings alongside Persian gardens and the Yamuna River, which shines with brilliance.
- Location: Tajganj, Agra
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM | Closed on Fridays.
- Entry Fees: ₹50 (Indians), ₹1100 (Foreigners)
2. Explore the Mighty Agra Fort
If the walls of Agra Fort possessed any voices, then it would share the remarkable Mughal stories of rulers and battlefield history along with its royal glamour. This UNESCO World Heritage site which Emperor Akbar constructed stands as a red sandstone fortress that contains various palaces and mosques together with hidden underground passageways, making it one of the most famous things to do in Agra. Enter through magnificent gates to visit the Diwan-i-Khas and observe the Musamman Burj from where Shah Jahan spent his prison days.
- Location: Rakabganj, Agra
- Timings: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily
- Entry Fees: ₹40 (Indians), ₹550 (Foreigners)
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3. Experience the Surreal Beauty of Fatehpur Sikri
Visitors can find the abandoned Fatehpur Sikri city within a 45-minute driving distance from Agra. During the 16th century, Emperor Akbar constructed this majestic city that disappeared after running out of water supply. Visitors can experience two main attractions at Fatehpur Sikri by passing through Buland Darwaza and then witnessing Jama Masjid and Panch Mahal Palace which was constructed for Akbar's queens. Stepping into this place creates a feeling of being in history due to its hushed atmosphere.
- Location: Fatehpur Sikri, Agra
- Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
- Entry Fees: ₹50 (Indians), ₹610 (Foreigners)
4. Observe the beautiful scenery at Mehtab Bagh
Mehtab Bagh provides an unmatched experience of relaxing in Mughal-style gardens while the Taj Mahal shows its beautiful sunset form, which makes it one of the finest things to do in Agra. Situated on the opposite side of the Yamuna River stands this garden which Emperor Babur established for supreme Taj Mahal observation. The site has fewer visitors which makes it an exceptional photo opportunity while you appreciate a gorgeous panorama.
- Location: Dharmapuri, Agra
- Timings: 6:00 AM- 6:00 PM
- Entry Fees: ₹15 (Indians), ₹200 (Foreigners)
5. Venture to see the “Baby Taj”- Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah
Before the Taj Mahal was built there existed the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah which earned its name as the Baby Taj. The Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah represents the first Mughal structure where the entire construction used white marble. The building stands out through its magnificent Persian-style gardens together with complex floral inlay work creating a serene getaway from the crowd, which makes it stand out among the various other things to do in Agra.
- Location: Moti Bagh, Agra
- Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
- Entry Fees: ₹20 (Indians), ₹210 (Foreigners)
6. Experience Serenity at Jama Masjid
Jama Masjid in Agra takes its place as one of the biggest mosques in India due to its magnificent Islamic architectural design, which makes visiting this place, one of the must-do things to do in Agra. When Shah Jahan built this mosque in 1648 he adorned it with exquisite calligraphy and red sandstone work while placing a large central dome on its summit. Thousands of people attend the Friday prayers at this location which creates an awe-inspiring peaceful ambiance.
- Location: Kinari Bazar, Agra
- Timings: 6:00 AM- 8:00 PM
- Entry Fees: Free
7. Experience Akbar’s Tomb at Sikandra
Akbar’s Tomb in Sikandra resides 10 kilometres from Agra as an architectural vision that unites Islamic, Hindu, and Buddhist design principles. Akbar created unity through his combination of an impressive entry gate with decorative gardens and a tomb made from marble. Visiting this place is one of the best things to do in Agra as the visitors find much more at this location than the tomb because it houses remarkable accounts of India's history through its great emperor. Take a walk through the paths that feature deer and peacocks along with intricate geometric features.
- Location: Sikandra, Agra
- Timings: 6:00 AM- 6:00 PM
- Entry Fees: ₹20 (Indians), ₹210 (Foreigners)
8. Shop at Sadar Bazaar
A visit to shop in Agra offers shoppers a special shopping experience. The most popular market in Agra called Sadar Bazaar offers a precious bounty for souvenir seekers which makes this activity one of the best things to do in Agra for shopaholics. Sadar Bazaar features a complete range of products including leather goods along with marble inlays and Petha sweets which is a special dish of Agra. If you are in this city, visit the colorful market streets while haggling with shopkeepers who will help you bring back the artisan crafts of Agra.
- Location: Sadar Bazaar, Agra Cantt
- Timings: 11:00 AM- 11:00 PM
- Entry Fees: Free
9. Cruise along the Yamuna River
Thinking about the unique things to do in Agra? A boat cruise on the Yamuna River provides breathtaking views that can only be experienced during sunrise or sunset. During your boat tour, the Taj Mahal reflects superbly in the water creating a memorable scene like a postcard. A quiet boat journey allows you to view the Taj Mahal without the people who gather around the site. Every couple must experience this attraction because of its supreme importance.
- Location: Near Mehtab Bagh
- Timings: 6:00 AM- 6:30 PM
- Entry fees: For boating at Yamuna River: ₹200 to ₹500 per person based on which operator you choose.
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10. Relish Agra’s Street Food Delights
Foodies, you’re not left behind! Apart from its famous monuments, Agra offers its visitors delicious street food options. The must-taste street food includes Petha along with Bedai Aloo Sabzi and Mughlai Kebabs as the main dishes. You should visit Chaat Gali for spicy snacks alongside Mama Chicken for traditional tandoori dishes. The trip to Agra remains unfinished unless you taste the authentic local food of the town, making it one of the best things to do in Agra for food lovers.
- Location: Sadar Bazaar, Gopal Bazar, and MG Road
- Timings: 5:00 PM- 10:00 PM
11. See the Taj Mahal through the night's moonlight
The views of the Taj Mahal under the full moon rank as a top romantic experience that counts as one of the best things to do in Agra at night. The white marble becomes luminous while the moonlight creates an unreal environment. The ASI restricts entry to 400 people to enjoy this extraordinary night experience and visitors should make their bookings ahead of time. Seeing the Taj Mahal under moonlight makes a permanent impression that anyone will remember forever.
- Location: Taj Mahal.
- Timings: The Taj Mahal is open for night viewing during full moon nights between 8:30 PM and 12:30 AM.
- Entry Fees: ₹510 (Indians), ₹750 (Foreigners)
12. Travel to the Enigmatic Chini Ka Rauza
The tomb of Persian poet Allama Afzal Khan stands in Agra as a hidden treasure known as Chini Ka Rauza in its honour. The uniqueness of this structure originates from its Persian blue-glazed tiled exterior which only stands out among few buildings in India. People find pleasure in exploring this unique tomb site because of its sophisticated floral decorations and serene ambience.
- Location: Near Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb
- Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
- Entry Fees: Free
13. Visit the Agra Bear Rescue Center
The place is perfect for animal lovers. At the Agra Bear Rescue Center, visitors can find rescued sloth bears who used to perform on the streets, and now they all reside in peace here. Visitors can experience the sight of bears playing while gaining conservation knowledge and supporting the wonderful initiative at the rescue centre. This is indeed one of the fascinating things to see in Agra.
- Location: Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, Agra
- Timings: 9:00 AM- 5:30 PM
- Entry Fees: ₹50 per person
14. Experience Kinari Bazaar by Night With a Stroll
If you search for distinct night activities in Agra you should go to Kinari Bazaar where you will find jewellery shops alongside fabric stores and Mughal-style souvenir stalls. Shoppers and bystanders explore this place as one of the famous things in Agra since it offers colourful shops with old-world charm beneath its glowing lanterns. After buying handcrafted items you can experience authentic Agra nightlife through its original locations.
- Location: Near Jama Masjid
- Timings: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
15. Marvel at the Tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani
The burial site of Akbar's wife Mariam-uz-Zamani rests peacefully in tranquil terrains with abundant gardens all around. Unlike the elaborate Mughal royal shrines these tombs exhibit a straightforward design that represents its important historical position. People who enjoy studying history will find relaxation at this location that lies away from busy tourist attractions.
- Location: Sikandra, Agra
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fees: ₹20 (Indians), ₹210 (Foreigners)
Conclusion
Agra offers its visitors much beyond the Taj Mahal because the city presents abundant history alongside dynamic markets appealing food and distinct attractions. The entire experience of the various things to do in Agra becomes a magical ride that includes Mughal architecture viewing, night shopping in Kinari Bazaar, and boat rides along the Yamuna River. Every visitor finds unique enjoyment between the Mehtab Bagh sunrise and the evening walk through Sadar Bazaar. So, the only thing left to be done is to plan your Agra Trip to try out all the things you have learned so far!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is the best time to visit Agra?
October through March represents the ideal period to visit Agra because the climate during this period provides suitable conditions for exploration.
2. How many days are enough to visit all the important places in Agra?
Tourists seeking to visit all main destinations should stay for at least 2 days although history enthusiasts often choose 3 days.
3. What are the renowned items visitors should purchase in Agra?
Tourists in Agra will want to purchase traditional Petha sweets as well as marble keepsakes leather products and Mughal-styled accessories.
4. Can we visit the Taj Mahal during nighttime?
People can visit the Taj Mahal at night during full moon periods while requiring ticket reservations upfront.
5. How can one experience the special things to do in Agra?
Agra visitors should experience the Yamuna River boat tour with Chini Ka Rauza and night-time trips through Kinari Bazaar.
