A crowning gem of the Mughal golden era, Agra's importance in Indian history is unparalleled. Home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World and magnificent architecture, this vibrant city enthralls with its past and present. Agra is also popular for it's leather goods, colorful assortment of handicrafts, Mughal cuisine and local sweets. Remember to take home a box of “Petha” as a sweet remembrance of your trip!
Indian history
How to get to Agra
A prominent member of the Golden Triangle, Agra can be accessed from Jaipur and Delhi fairly easily. Delhi has an international and national airport that welcomes travellers from all over the world and within the country. From Delhi, a further flight only 30 minutes long or a 3-hour train ride (by the Shatabdi Express, or the slower Inter-City Express and Taj Express) should take you to Agra. The most efficient and convenient way though, is to hire a car; this way the restaurants along the highway can also be enjoyed as well! In fact, Agra is very well connected to many of India's major cities through the National and Express Highways. Apart from taxi services, good bus services are available to the city from Jhansi, Gwalior, Lucknow, Jaipur and Delhi.
plan your Agra trip
If visiting the city for the first time, plan your Agra trip with a licensed travel guide who will introduce you to some of the best attractions in the city, some of which are listed below:
When to go
Summers can be quite intense and uncomfortable in Agra. The best time to visit the city is from October to March when the climate is cooler.
Where to go in Agra
If visiting the city for the first time, plan your Agra trip with a licensed travel guide who will introduce you to some of the best attractions in the city, some of which are listed below:
Taj Mahal
Taj Mahal is the shining crown of the city, a poem of love and a white marble wonder. The monument was built for Mumtaz Mahal by Shahjahan to fulfill his promise of giving her the most beautiful and magnificent monument as a mausoleum. Do make sure you engage a knowledgeable Agra tour guide well in advance, who will acquaint you with the nuances and detail that went into the making of one of the world's most symmetrical structures, from the precious and semi precious stones that were used in its making to the way the 4 minarets wee built slightly outwards to protect the main structure.
Taj Mahal
Taj Mahal is the shining crown of the city, a poem of love and a white marble wonder
Agra Fort
The Agra Fort was built first in the year 1565 by Akbar. The large double walls, four large gateways encircle the collection of beautiful pavilions, fountains, gardens, baths, mosques, courts and palaces that provided utmost security and a luxurious lifestyle to its inhabitants.
Agra Fort
The Agra Fort was built first in the year 1565 by Akbar.
Itmad-ud-Daulah
Known as the Pillar of State, Itmad-ud-Daulah is the tomb of Mirza Ghiyas Beg, the father-in-law of Jehangir. The garden mausoleum is located in the center of the luxurious and beautiful Persian Garden. Built between the years of 1622-1628, this architectural gem set in white marble with beautiful intricate engravings is definitely worth a visit.
Sikandra
Located 10 kilometers from the city centre, Sikandra is the mausoleum of Akbar, the greatest Mughal ruler of India. The monument showcases a unique mix of Jain, Buddhist, Islamic, Christian and Hindu architectural styles in keeping with his secular policies during his reign. The tomb has three storied minarets in red sand stones standing at each corner.
In case you have the time to make day trips, two great options available nearby are Fatehpur Sikri and Firozabad. Fatehpur Sikri is home to one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in India and is a World Heritage Site worth visiting because of its excellent architecture. Firozabad is famous for its colorful bangles and glass works, which find their way to markets all over the world.
Sikandra is the mausoleum of Akbar
Located 10 kilometers from the city centre, Sikandra is the mausoleum of Akbar, the greatest Mughal ruler of India.