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If someone asked an Indian what Agra is famous for, the answer would instantly be the Taj Mahal. A pristine white monument brimming with intricate Mughal architecture, the Taj Mahal is undoubtedly a spectacle to witness. But Agra, one of India’s oldest cities, is more than just a home to one of the world’s seven wonders. Straddled along the Yamuna River, there are plenty of things to do in Agra if you have the time.
From the city’s bustling local markets to enjoying lip-smacking delicacies, here are 7 things to do in Agra:
1. Behold the beauty of the Taj Mahal
One of the most famous things in Agra is the Taj Mahal, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A symbol of undying love, the Taj Mahal was commissioned by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Made using ivory white marble, the mausoleum houses tombs of the emperor and his wife. It is one of the best things to see in Agra.
Location: Dharmapuri Forest Colony, Tajganj, Agra
Timing: Open from sunrise to sunset, except on Friday. Night viewing from 8:30 pm to 12:30 am.
Entry Fee: INR 50 for the day, INR 510 for the night
Duration: 30 minutes for night viewing
2. Light and sound show at Agra Fort
One of the most beautiful things to see in Agra, after the Taj Mahal, would be the light and sound show at the Agra Fort after sunset. It offers a peek into the culturally rich history of the Mughal era in India. Lights focus on parts of the Fort to narrate a historic story of the Mughal rule, while sounds of horses will take you 350 years back in time. An experience to live with children, the show is a must-watch when in Agra.
Location: Agra Fort, Rakabganj, Agra
Timing: 8:30 am to 9:20 pm
Entry Fee: INR 70 for Indians, INR 200 for foreigners
Duration: 30 minutes for night viewing
3. Stroll in Mehtab Bagh
Strolling in a 25-acre Persian-style garden amidst Mughal vistas just hits different. Built by the first Mughal emperor Babar in the 16th century, Mehtab Bagh is a crescent-shaped lush garden with velvet-like grass, fountains, and well-kept pools. The garden offers a spectacular view of the Taj Mahal ahead.
Location: Dharmapuri Forest Colony, Nagla Devjit, Agra
Timing: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: INR 15 for Indians tourists, INR 200 for foreigners
4. Explore Fatehpur Sikri
There are plenty of things to do in Agra, but with a slight detour, you can explore the old capital city of the Mughals—Fatehpur Sikri. Founded by Emperor Akbar, the city is built using red sandstone with a mix of Hindu, Jain, and Islamic architecture. The city was built on barren land to pay homage to the Sufi saint Salim Chisti.
Location: 39 kms from Agra
Timing: Sunrise to sunset
Entry Fee: INR 50 for Indians, INR 485 for foreigners
5. Shopping at local markets
Wondering what to do in Agra after all the sightseeing? Housing an array of local bazaars, Agra is a shopaholic's paradise. From Kinari Bazaar to Shahganj Bazaar—the area is swamped with shops selling everything under the sun. Wedding lehengas, embroidered dupattas, kurtas and sherwanis, handicrafts, spices, and jewellery are some of the many things to scout for in the narrow lanes. Colourful and bustling with contagious energy, you will need to brush up your bargaining skills to crack a deal with the local shopkeepers here.
Location: Subhash Bazar, Kinari Bazar, Shahganj Bazar
Timing: 11 am to 9 pm
Entry Fee: Free
6. Admire Jahangir Mahal
Among the many things to see in Agra, Jahangir Mahal is a remarkable monument to check out. An Islamic-style palace built by the emperor Akbar for his son Jahangir, the royal abode showcases exquisite craftsmanship and medieval Mughal architecture. The highlight of the Mahal is the “Hauz-i-Jahangiri”, a bowl carved from a single piece of stone to store aromatic rose water.
Location: Rakabganj-Agra Fort, Agra
Timing: 7 am to 6 pm ( Closed on Friday)
Entry Fee: INR 5 for Indians, INR 30 for foreigners
7. A spiritual quest at Jama Masjid
A spiritually enriching thing to do in Agra is to visit the Jama Masjid. The largest mosque in India, Jama Masjid is also known as the Friday Mosque by locals. Built by emperor Shah Jahan for his daughter Jahanara Begum, the masjid’s stunning architecture and the calming vibe is a soul-stirring experience.
Location: Jama Masjid Road, Agra
Timing: 7 am to 12 Noon | 1.30 pm to 6.30 pm
Entry Fee: Free
If you still ask us what is famous in Agra, we might answer differently. The warm and hospitable locals, mesmerising architecture, verdant gardens, and mosques are all a speciality of Agra. The city is what it is because of its food, culture, and vibrant history.
Photo: Shutterstock