The city of Agra is a popular tourist destination in India. It is home to the wonder of the world, the Taj Mahal. The ethereal beauty of this monument invites people from all over the world. Agra truly is a dreamland for the connoisseurs of fine arts, history, and heritage.
An Agra city tour takes you deep into the history of the region. It lets you explore the flavoursome Mughlai cuisine, and stroll across the age-old bazaars that once were commonly used during the Mughal Empire.
This blog is all about the Agra city tour where you’ll get every minute detail about the popular places in the city, the best time to visit, and what’s more in the city apart from monuments.
Agra City: The Capital of the Mughal Empire and its History
Though different claims diversify, the city of Agra was founded by Sultan Sikander Lodhi, an emperor of the Delhi Sultanate in 1504. After a war with Mughal Emperor Babur, the Delhi Sultanate fell and the Mughal Empire took over the city.
Agra remained the capital of the Mughals for many years and reached its heights during the reign of Akbar and Shah Jahan.
The Mughals developed Agra city comprehensively where forts, audience halls, tombs, and residential palaces were built in strategically important areas of the city. These monuments today depict the life of the mighty Mughal Kings and take us on a journey to the past.
Best Places to visit in Agra:
Taj Mahal –
A wonder of the world, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an architectural marvel, and the symbol of love; the Taj Mahal is indeed the most spectacular monument in the world. It is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations, and the story behind its construction allures our minds and soul.
Agra Fort
The second most popular monument in Agra is the Agra Fort. It was once home to the Mughal Emperors and their kingdom. The red sandstone fort looks spectacular in design and depicts the grandeur of the Mughal heritage. The iconic fort is huge with numerous complexes and houses. As you stroll more into it, it gets more intriguing and amazing.
Itimad-Ud-Daulah
Another iconic monument built during the Mughal era is the Itimad-Ud-Daulah. Along with the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, this monument is also a beautiful piece of architectural marvel. The intricate geometric motifs on the walls and ceiling of the monument speak volumes about how intricacy and detailing ruled in Mughal-era monuments.
Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri is a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Agra city. It is a magnificent monument with a wide complex of forts, prayer halls, audience halls, gardens, and more. This monument was once the capital of the Mughals but it didn’t last long and the capital was again shifted to Agra. Fatehpur Sikri is an iconic monument with grand architecture and scenic landscape views.
Things to do on the Agra City Tour
Sunrise Taj Mahal Sightseeing
As the first rays of the sun navigate through the sky and fall upon the magnificent Taj Mahal, the pristine white colour of the marble absorbs and turns into hues of Yellow and Gold. The sight is magical and is bound to stay in your mind for many years.
Sunrise Taj Mahal Sightseeing is the best experience you get of the Taj Mahal as early morning is the best time to visit the Taj Mahal and the complex is also less crowded.
Relish the Mughlai Cuisine
When in Agra, tasting the royal Mughlai cuisine is a must! The cuisine is all about extensive flavours, a range of spices, masalas, and veggies – Mughlai cuisine is indeed a feast for the senses and is highly recommended on your Agra Tour.
There are numerous Mughlai, and North Indian cuisine restaurants near the Taj Mahal where you can enjoy a fine dining experience. Chicken Korma, Butter Chicken, and Galouti Kebab are some of the best dishes you must try hands-on.
Meet Marble Inlay Artisans – Marble Inlay workshop
The marble inlay artists of Agra are truly a treasure from the history of the city. The later generations of the artisans who crafted the Taj Mahal’s intricate designs still live in the city and make handicrafts and souvenirs made of white marble.
In your Agra tour package, you will get a chance to meet the descendants of the artisans who made the Taj Mahal. You can opt for a live session where you will see the artisan turning a piece of marble into a fine artefact
Meet Mughal Carpet Weavers – Mughal Carpet Weaving Workshop
Did you know that Agra is one of India’s major centres of carpet weaving? Thanks to the Mughal Kings and the carpet weavers that were brought to Agra from Persia to weave carpets for the forts and residential palaces.
Similar to the Marble Inlay artefacts, hand-knotted Mughal carpets from Agra are admired throughout the world. These are exquisite pieces of art and on your Agra tour, join to experience the live hand-knotted carpet weaving session.
Nightlife experience
Visitors to Agra say that the city is becoming more happening with every passing year. There is a vibrant nightlife scene which you shouldn’t miss. The city has plenty of roof-top cafes, nightclubs and restaurants which are popular places for club hopping, drinks, and dinner. Unplugged by Courtyard, Salt Cafe, and Molecule are some of the top picks near the Taj Mahal.
Yoga at Taj Nature Walk (Taj Mahal View)
Breathe in the tranquil surroundings of the Taj Nature Walk and engage in yoga activities to reenergize your mind and soul. Taj Nature Walk is a lush green garden overlooking the Taj Mahal and is a suitable place for Yoga and nature retreats. Ask your Agra tour package advisor to add this experience to your tour.
Panchi Petha
Petha is a popular sweet snack with its domicile in Agra’s Nuri Gate. It is sweet and dry on the outside, and tender on the inside. It’s made from Ashgourd and is a relished sweet snack in Agra. Domestically, it has a great demand and tourists take Petha with them for their friends and family. Hence, don’t miss out on the opportunity to taste authentic Agra’s Panchi Petha on your Agra tour.
Night show at Kalakrati
Kalakriti is a cultural and convention centre near the Taj Mahal and hosts a flock of tourists for its ‘Mohabbat-E-Taj’ night show. The show is spectacular as it depicts the story of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, and the magnificent symbol of love – the Taj Mahal.
It is a beautiful show and takes us to the times of the Mughal era where you’ll get to experience India’s then heritage and cultures.
Explore the local market – Kinari Bazaar
Kinari Bazaar is an Old Agra Street Bazaar ( market) near the Jama Masjid in Agra. This market is said to be as old as the Mughal monuments in the area and was actively used by the kingdom. Today, this bazaar is a popular attraction as it still has quaint lanes with colourful shops of clothes, toys, and artefacts, all ranging from $1 – $5.
You can do a walking tour of the Kinari Bazaar and capture some amazing moments of the market. You can also shop for things as per your taste and preferences.
Planning Agra Tour
When to visit Agra:
Agra city has varied temperatures throughout the year. However, the calendar for tourism remains active for the full year. Tourists visit the city every month as the peak season lets visitors enjoy the best weather while the off-season is the time to capitalize on discounts and affordable options.
Consider different months while planning your Agra tour as there are different festivals, cultural events, shows, and fairs throughout the year.
Summer Time: May – July
The temperature from May till July ranges between 36° C (86° F) – 45° (113° F). These are the hottest months of the year. Less tourists visit the city during these months because of the scorching heat.
Tips:
- Wear light breathable clothes if you are traveling during the summer months.
- Carry caps/hats, and sunglasses to prevent direct sunlight.
- Wear sunscreen to prevent UV rays.
- Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Monsoon Time: July to September
During the monsoon months, there is relief from scorching heat. However, the weather is largely humid. Average rainfall ranges around 620mm. You can plan your Agra tour during this month as there are fewer travellers during this season and the accommodation rates are lower.
Tips:
- Wear light breathable clothes during these months.
Autumn Time: September to October
The months from September to October are the best months for a Taj Mahal Tour. The daytime is usually warm but the mornings and evenings are pleasant. You can surely plan your Agra tour during these months.
Festivals and activities
During October, the Hindu festival of Dussehra is celebrated with full enthusiasm and joy. You’ll see a range of activities during the days around this festival. 20 days later to Dusshera, the grand Deepawali (also called Diwali) festival is celebrated with full enthusiasm across the country.
Planning a tour around these festivals will add more charm to your vacation in India.
Winter: November to February
The winter season is the best time to plan and visit the city of Agra. The weather is pleasant in the day and cold in the morning and evenings. You’ll have the most comfortable travel experience during these months. This is also the peak season for visiting the Taj Mahal. Hence, you might feel the place is a little crowded.
Festivals and activities
These months of the year are usually happening in India. After a long streak of summer months, finally, the temperature starts dropping. The weather is awesome and cold and there is a queue of festivals coming up. From Diwali to Christmas and the New Year; the experience is impeccable. Certainly, the winter is the best time to visit this place (while expecting crowded spaces as well).
Travel tips when visiting Agra
Clothing
The weather in Agra is largely hot and humid except for the Winter months of November – February. Hence, you can follow these clothing guidelines on your Agra tour –
- Summer: Wear light breathable clothes that largely cover your body.
- Winters: Wear Jackets, hoodies, warm sweaters, gloves, and bennies.
Interaction and communication
Hindi is the primary language in Agra but people do understand and speak conversational English. Seek assistance from people but take advice and services from tourist officials, and tour guides.
Transportation and Accommodation
Transportation and Accommodation won’t be a hassle in Agra as there are numerous options available round the clock. There are different options available such as cabs, rickshaws, TukTuk, and Agra Metro (limited route as of now). For long distances, you can hire a cab. For short distances, go for Rickshaws or Tuk Tuks.
Photography and Videography
The city of Agra is picturesque and will offer you frames that can’t be matched with any other part of the world. Spend some time in Mehtab Bagh and capture the majestic views of the Taj Mahal during the sunset. Take in the frame the calm water of the Yamuna river and boats overshadowing the silhouette of the Taj Mahal.
Similarly take note of the Mughal monuments such as the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Itimad-Ud-Daulah. Capture the intricate Pietra Dura marble inlay work on the walls of these monuments.
Note: Drone photography/videography of the Taj Mahal is prohibited at all times.
Shopping and Bargaining
In the Indian subcontinent, bargaining while shopping is common and recommended. Research well at different shops before purchasing anything. Then try to bargain for a favourable price that’s convenient to both you and the seller. Purchase things from authorized shops and sellers only. Stay cautious of frauds and scams.
Best Agra Tour Packages
Same Day Agra Tour
This is a one-day trip starting from New Delhi. The driver picks you up and brings you to Agra via Yamuna Expressway. On arrival, meet the tour guide and begin the sightseeing. Explore the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Itimad-Ud-Daulah and by the evening, return to Delhi. You’ll get facility breaks in between.
Overnight Agra Tour
This is a one-night and two-day tour. On the first day, you’ll reach Agra city and will explore Agra Fort and Itimad-Ud-Daulah. Then will do the local market sightseeing and fine dining at night. On the next day, early in the morning will go for the Sunrise Taj Mahal sightseeing. This is the best time to visit the Taj Mahal because of the magnificent views of the Taj Mahal during the sunrise and also because the place is less crowded. This is a better and more comfortable tour option than the Same Day Agra Tour.
Golden Triangle Tour
This is a combined tour of the three tourist cities – Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. This is a multiday tour where you’ll first explore India’s capital Delhi then will be transferred to Agra and then Jaipur. This is a more comprehensive and detailed tour of Agra and the other two cities.
