Agra is one of the best places to visit in India. It is located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, about 200 km southeast of the national capital, Delhi. Agra is well known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture.
Do you know why Agra is famous?
Agra is renowned worldwide for being home to the iconic Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The city also boasts other UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. Agra’s significance as a major tourist destination comes from its Mughal-era heritage and the exquisite monuments built during that period.
Agra Weather
Agra experiences a semi-arid climate that borders on a humid subtropical climate. The city has mild winters, hot and dry summers, and a monsoon season.
In summer, from April to August, the daytime temperature can soar to 46-50°C. Nights are relatively cooler around 30°C. Winters, from November to February, are mild with average temperatures ranging from 6-8°C, sometimes dipping to 3°C.
The monsoon season, from July to September, brings some respite from the heat, but the weather can get quite humid. The average rainfall during this period is around 628 mm.
Ideal Duration To Travel Agra
To fully appreciate Agra’s beauty and history, it is recommended to spend at least 2-3 days exploring the city. This allows sufficient time to visit the major attractions at a relaxed pace and soak in the local culture.
Short Itinerary For Agra Travel
A short itinerary for Agra could look like this:
- Day 1: Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise, explore Agra Fort, and shop in local markets
- Day 2: Take a day trip to the abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikri, visit Akbar’s Tomb and Jama Masjid
- Day 3: Explore Mehtab Bagh, Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb (Baby Taj), and enjoy a cultural show
You can also extend your stay to discover more of Agra’s hidden gems and its cuisine.
Best Time To Visit Agra
If you are planning to visit Agra, the best time is between November to March. During these winter months, the weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 9-20°C, ideal for sightseeing.
Another good period is from August to October, just after the monsoon, when the Taj Mahal looks stunning against a bright green backdrop. However, it can still be quite warm during the day.
Peak Season To Visit Agra
The peak tourist season in Agra is from November to February. The pleasant winter weather attracts visitors from all over. It’s the best time to explore outdoor attractions comfortably. However, this also means thicker crowds at monuments and higher hotel tariffs.
Shoulder Season
The shoulder season falls between August and October. With the monsoon receding, the weather becomes more tolerable. This is a good time to visit if you want to avoid peak crowds and get slightly better deals on accommodation, while still having good sightseeing weather.
Off Season
April to July is the off-season in Agra due to the scorching summer heat. Temperatures can rise above 40°C, making it extremely uncomfortable to step out during the day. However, if you can brave the heat, you’ll find thinner crowds and heavily discounted room rates. Early mornings and late evenings are relatively pleasant to venture out.
Major Attractions in Agra
Agra is home to some of India’s most spectacular monuments that showcase the grandeur of ancient Mughal architecture. Below are the top attractions not to be missed when you travel Agra:
Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is undoubtedly Agra’s biggest tourist attraction and one of India’s most iconic landmarks. This stunning white marble mausoleum was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Its exquisite craftsmanship, intricate inlay work, and perfect symmetry make it an architectural marvel.
What is the Taj Mahal Famous for?
Apart from being one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj is renowned for its incredible beauty that looks different at various times of the day as the sun’s rays reflect off its marble surface. It is a symbol of eternal love and a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, famous for its intricate marble inlay work and precious gemstones.
Agra Fort
The majestic Agra Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Emperor Akbar. This walled city served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors until the capital shifted to Delhi. Agra Fort houses numerous impressive structures like Diwan-e-Khas, Diwan-e-Aam, Musamman Burj, Khas Mahal, and Sheesh Mahal.
What is Agra Fort Famous for?
Agra Fort is known for its massive red sandstone walls that stretch for 2.5 km. It is a testament to the power and grandness of the Mughal empire. The fort also has immense historical significance as Emperor Shah Jahan was imprisoned here by his son Aurangzeb during the last years of his life.
Fatehpur Sikri
Located about 40 km from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is a fortified ancient city built by Emperor Akbar to serve as the Mughal capital from 1571-1585 AD. Today, it is a ghost city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to some of the finest examples of Mughal architecture.
What is Fatehpur Sikri Famous for?
Fatehpur Sikri is renowned for its stunning imperial complex with numerous palaces, halls, mosques, and tombs. The most famous structures are Buland Darwaza (the 55 m high entrance gate), Jama Masjid (one of India’s largest mosques), and the tomb of Sufi saint Salim Chishti.
Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb
Often called the ‘Baby Taj’, Itmad-ud-Daulah’s tomb was built by Empress Nur Jahan for her father Mirza Ghiyas Beg. Considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal, it is famous for its elaborate marble latticework and inlay of semi-precious stones.
What is Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb Famous for?
This exquisite marble mausoleum is known for its delicate jali work and intricate carvings that served as a draft for the Taj Mahal. It was the first Mughal structure to use white marble extensively, marking a shift from red sandstone.
Akbar’s Tomb, Sikandra
Akbar’s Tomb in Sikandra was built by Emperor Akbar’s son Jahangir in memory of his father. The beautiful mausoleum is a perfect blend of Islamic, Hindu, Buddhist, Jain and Christian motifs, reflecting Akbar’s secular views and the diversity of his empire.
What is Akbar’s Tomb Famous for?
Akbar’s tomb is renowned for its unique architectural style that fuses various religious elements. It is the only Mughal tomb where the actual burial chamber is located underground. The top floor houses a marble cenotaph, decorated with stunning inlay work.
Nearby Cities of Agra
Agra’s location in the heart of the North Indian plains makes it a great base to explore many nearby cities full of historical and cultural attractions. Some of the popular ones are:
Mathura
Mathura, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna, is an important Hindu pilgrimage site. It is known for its numerous temples, with the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple being the most famous. The city comes alive during festivals like Janmashtami and Holi.
Vrindavan
Vrindavan, just 10 km from Mathura, is another major Krishna pilgrimage site associated with his childhood. It is dotted with hundreds of temples dedicated to Krishna and Radha. The most revered ones are Banke Bihari Temple, ISKCON Temple, and Rangji Temple.
Gwalior
Gwalior is famous for its majestic hilltop fort that dominates the city’s skyline. Within the fort are several historic palaces, temples and museums. The Jai Vilas Palace, Sas-Bahu Temple, Man Mandir Palace and Gujari Mahal Archaeological Museum are the key attractions.
Bharatpur
Bharatpur is renowned for the Keoladeo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s richest bird sanctuaries. It is home to over 350 species of birds, including the rare Siberian crane. The park was once the hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Bharatpur.
Geographic Location of Agra
Agra is situated on the banks of River Yamuna in the state of Uttar Pradesh, about 200 km southeast of India’s capital Delhi.
The city lies in the center of the North Indian plains, with coordinates 27°10′N 78°02′E. It has an average elevation of 170 m above sea level.
Agra district borders Mathura and Firozabad districts to the north, Dhaulpur district to the east, Morena district to the south, and Bharatpur district to the west.
Popular Monuments in Agra
Apart from the major attractions, Agra is dotted with many other impressive monuments that provide a glimpse into its rich past. Some of the noteworthy ones are:
- Jama Masjid – Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India built by Shah Jahan
- Chini Ka Rauza – Tomb of Afzal Khan, a Persian poet who served as Shah Jahan’s chief minister
- Mehtab Bagh – A square garden complex across the Yamuna river that offers stunning views of the Taj Mahal
- Ram Bagh – The oldest Mughal garden in India, built by Emperor Babur
- Mariam’s Tomb – The tomb of Emperor Akbar’s wife, Mariam-uz-Zamani
- Guru ka Tal – A historical Sikh pilgrimage site with a holy tank and gurudwara
Religious Pilgrimage Sites In Agra
Agra has been a melting pot of various religions and cultures over centuries. The city is home to some important pilgrimage sites revered by people of different faiths:
- Mankameshwar Temple – One of the four ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva
- Soami Bagh – The headquarters of the Radhasoami spiritual movement
- Bijli Ghar – The Roman Catholic cemetery with beautiful European-style tombs
- Kailash Temple – A spectacular temple carved out of a single rock, part of Sikandar Bagh
- Prithvi Nath Temple – An important Jain temple dedicated to the 10th Tirthankara
- Mazar of Salabat Khan – The tomb of a Lodhi-era chief who controlled Agra in the early 16th century
Cuisine and Shopping Recommendations in Agra
Agra is a food lover’s paradise, known for its rich Mughlai cuisine and delectable street food. Some of the must-try dishes are:
- Petha – A soft, translucent sweet made from ash gourd, available in various flavors
- Paratha – Indian flatbread stuffed with various fillings, best enjoyed at Sadar Bazar
- Mughlai delicacies – Kebabs, kormas, biryanis and other meat preparations
- Chaat – Popular street food snacks like pani puri, aloo tikki, bhalla papdi
- Jalebi – A crispy, juicy sweet made from deep-fried batter soaked in sugar syrup
- Bidaai-Kachori – A breakfast staple of deep-fried puffed bread served with spicy potato curry
For shopping, Agra is most famous for its marble handicrafts, inlay work, leather goods, brass ware and jewelry. Some of the top places to shop are:
- Sadar Bazaar – The city’s biggest and busiest market known for clothes, snacks, jewelry
- Kinari Bazaar – A wholesale market specializing in wedding-related items and decorations
- Subhash Emporium – A government-approved store for quality marble, soft stone and wood artifacts
- Shoe Market – A one-stop destination for Agra’s famous leather footwear near Hing Ki Mandi
- Kohinoor Jewellers – Agra’s most trusted jewelry shop for gold, silver and precious stones
To-Do Activities in Agra
Apart from monument hopping, there are plenty of other activities to indulge in Agra:
- Witness the Taj Mahotsav – A 10 day arts, crafts and cultural festival held in February
- Try River Safari – You can enjoy a chambal river safari to spot gharials, dolphins and migratory birds
- Heritage Walk in Kachhpura – You can take a heritage walk in Kachhpura village near Mehtab Bagh
- Watch the spectacular Mohabbat The Taj show at Kalakriti Cultural Center
- Hot Air Balloon in Agra – You can get a bird’s eye view of the Taj Mahal from a hot air balloon
- You can even pamper yourself with a luxurious spa treatment inspired by Mughal wellness therapies
- Try to learn the art of marble inlay and zardozi embroidery at a local workshop
- Do not forget to feast on Mughlai delicacies at themed restaurants like Peshawri and Esphahan
When is the best time to visit Agra?
The best time to visit Agra is between November and March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing. Temperatures range from 10-15°C at night to 20-25°C during the day, making it comfortable to explore the outdoor attractions.
The monsoon season from July to September is another good time as the rain washes the city clean and the monuments look fresh. However, the weather can get quite humid and sticky.
Does Agra have an airport?
Yes, Agra has a military airport called Agra Airport or Kheria Airport that also serves civilian flights. It is located about 13 km from the city center.
Currently, the airport has limited connectivity with flights to Delhi, Jaipur, Varanasi and Khajuraho. The nearest major international airports are Delhi (233 km) and Lucknow (335 km).
What is Agra famous for?
Agra is most famous for the iconic Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It is a symbol of eternal love built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal.
Apart from the Taj, Agra is renowned for two other UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. The city is dotted with many spectacular Mughal-era monuments, making it a haven for history buffs and architecture lovers.
Agra is also known for its mouthwatering Mughlai cuisine, marble handicrafts, leather goods and Zardozi embroidery. The city is a gastronome’s delight and a shopper’s paradise.
Is Agra safe for women?
Yes, Agra is generally a safe city for women travelers, both local and foreign. However, it is advisable to take some basic precautions, especially when visiting crowded areas like markets and tourist spots.
It is recommended to dress modestly, avoid venturing out alone late at night, and be cautious of touts and fraudsters. If you are ever in doubt or feel uncomfortable, it is best to seek help from the tourist police or your hotel staff.
Is Agra safe for solo travelers?
Agra is a relatively safe destination for solo travelers. The city sees a large influx of both domestic and international tourists, so the authorities are quite used to handling their safety concerns.
However, solo travelers should exercise caution when dealing with strangers, especially touts and guides who might try to scam them. It is advisable to book accommodations and transport through reputed agencies and stay vigilant of your surroundings.
What should I eat when in Agra?
When in Agra, you must indulge in its legendary Mughlai cuisine known for its rich flavors and aromatic spices. Some of the must-try dishes are petha, paratha, Mughlai delicacies like kebabs, kormas and biryanis, popular street food snacks called chaat, jalebi, and bidaai-kachori.
Don’t miss out on the traditional Mughlai restaurants that serve up slow-cooked, flavorful meat dishes. For authentic local eats, head to the bustling Sadar Bazaar area and dig into some lip-smacking street food from the many stalls and eateries. Agra’s cuisine is a gastronomic delight that will leave you craving more.
Which is the best place in Agra?
While the iconic Taj Mahal is undoubtedly the crown jewel of Agra’s attractions, the city has many other architectural wonders and historical sites worth exploring. The Agra Fort offers a glimpse into the history of the Mughal era with its stunning palaces and detailed carvings.
For a dose of Mughal history and architecture, head to the abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikri, an imperial complex of red sandstone palaces, mosques and monuments.
Other must-visit places include Akbar’s Tomb, Mehtab Bagh, Jama Masjid and the exquisite Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, also known as Baby Taj. With its rich heritage and architectural splendor, Agra has something to offer for every kind of traveler.
Is Agra safe at night?
Agra is generally safe at night, especially in the main tourist areas which are usually well-lit and have security measures in place. However, it’s always advisable to take some basic precautions to ensure a hassle-free experience.
You should avoid roaming into isolated or poorly lit areas of Agra late in the night. It’s best to stick to the more populated parts of the city if you are out after dark. If you are traveling alone, exercise caution and remain alert to your surroundings.
Keep your valuables safe and consider taking a trusted taxi service to get around at night. As long as you follow general safety guidelines and stay aware, you can enjoy Agra’s vibrant nightlife without any concerns.
Does it snow in Agra?
No, it does not snow in Agra. The city experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers, mild winters and a monsoon season, but snowfall is not a weather phenomenon seen here.
During the winter months from November to February, temperatures can drop to around 3-5°C at night but it rarely gets cold enough for snow. The coldest that Agra gets is a chilly winter morning with fog and mist. So while you can enjoy pleasant weather during this time, playing in the snow is not an option in Agra.
Which language is spoken in Agra?
The official and most widely spoken language in Agra is Hindi. Hindi is also the primary language of the state of Uttar Pradesh, where Agra is located. Many locals also speak and understand English, especially those involved in the tourism industry.
In addition to Hindi, you will also hear Urdu being spoken by some communities in Agra. Urdu has a strong influence given the city’s Mughal heritage. Some residents also speak Braj Bhasha, a local dialect. While it helps to know a few basic Hindi phrases, you can get by with English at most tourist places and hotels in Agra.
Catch me exploring the country in and out on my YouTube Channel as well.
If you have any further questions or need assistance in planning your trip, feel free to reach out.
