Agra Travel Guide (Doab/Uttar Pradesh/Plains/India/South Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Agra

Located in the state of Uttar Pradesh in northern India, Agra is a city that attracts millions of tourists every year due to its rich historical and cultural significance. The city is best known for being the home of the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The city has a fascinating past, and there is no shortage of monuments, museums, and places to visit that highlight its history.

In this comprehensive travel guide to Agra, we will explore the best of this beautiful city, including its cultural and natural attractions, where to stay, what to eat and drink, and transportation options.

List of Places to Visit in Agra

Here is a list of the top places to visit in Agra.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Taj Mahal
Agra Fort
Itimad-ud-Daulah Tomb
Fatehpur Sikri
Akbar’s Tomb, Sikandra
Mughal Garden

Natural Attractions of Agra: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Mehtab Bagh
Keetham Lake
Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary
Chambal Safari

Hiking/Biking Routes of Agra

Agra has a few hiking and biking trails that offer picturesque views of the city and its surroundings.

Yamuna River Trail
Taj Nature Walk
Taj Mahal and Agra Fort Trail

Best Things to Do in Agra: Activities and Tours

In addition to visiting historical sites and taking in the natural beauty of Agra, here are some other fun things to do:

Take a hot air balloon ride over the city
Enjoy a spa day with traditional ayurvedic treatments
Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Indian dishes like biryani and dal makhani
Explore the city on a guided cycling tour
Attend a cultural dance performance showcasing regional folk dances

Week-Long Itinerary for Agra

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Agra, here is one possible itinerary to make the most of your time:

Day	Activities
Day 1	Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise and explore Agra Fort in the afternoon
Day 2	Visit Itimad-ud-Daulah Tomb and Mehtab Bagh
Day 3	Take a hot air balloon ride over the city
Day 4	Visit the Mughal Garden and enjoy a spa day with traditional treatments
Day 5	Explore Fatehpur Sikri and Akbar’s Tomb, Sikandra
Day 6	Go on a cycling tour of the city
Day 7	Attend a cultural dance performance showcasing regional folk dances

Food and Drink Scene of Agra

Agra has a rich culinary heritage that has been influenced by the Mughal era. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Petha
Aloo Tikki
Bedai with Jalebi
Daal Makhani

Local Beverages

Lassi
Masala Chai
Kulhad Thandai
Nimbu Pani

Where to Stay in Agra: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Agra has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Some popular options include:

The Oberoi Amarvilas
The Taj Gateway Hotel
The Coral Court Homestay
The Backpacker’s Homestay

What to Buy in Agra: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Agra is famous for its marble handicrafts, leather goods, and textiles. Here are some souvenirs and local products that you can bring home:

Marble Taj Mahal replicas
Leather shoes and bags
Silk and cotton textiles
Hand-carved woodwork

Local Culture and Customs of Agra

Here are some important things to keep in mind when visiting Agra:

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites
Remove your shoes before entering mosques and temples
Ask for permission before taking photographs of people
Remember to haggle when shopping in local markets

Best Time to Visit Agra

The best time to visit Agra is during the winter season, between October and March when the weather is pleasant and cool. Summers can be hot and humid, while the monsoon season can bring heavy rain and flooding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Agra

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Agra:

Do:

Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise
Try the local street food
Learn some basic Hindi phrases
Tip your tour guide and driver

Don’t:

Use tap water for drinking or brushing your teeth
Wear revealing clothing
Touch or damage any monuments or artifacts
Buy from unauthorized street vendors

Safety and Health

Safety in Agra

While Agra is a relatively safe city, tourists should still take precautions to avoid petty theft and pickpocketing. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings and never leave your belongings unattended.

Health in Agra

Travelers should be aware of the risk of food and waterborne illnesses like traveler’s diarrhea due to contaminated water and food. It’s important to drink only bottled or filtered water and avoid street food that may not be cooked properly.

Getting to Agra: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Agra

The nearest airport to Agra is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, about 200 kilometers away. There are also some smaller regional airports in the state of Uttar Pradesh.

Bus Stations Near Agra

Agra has several bus terminals, including Agra Fort Bus Station, Idgah Bus Station, and ISBT Agra.

Other Options

Travelers can also reach Agra by train, with several daily services running between Delhi and Agra. Taxis and private cars are also available for hire.

How to Get Around in Agra

The best way to get around Agra is by hiring a taxi or an autorickshaw. Bicycle rentals are also available for those who prefer to explore the city on their own.

Where to Go Next from Agra: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Agra is located in a region of India that offers a wealth of interesting destinations and excursions. Here are some nearby destinations that you may want to explore:

Mathura
Vrindavan
Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
Jaipur

Conclusion

Agra is an amazing destination that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its fascinating past and stunning architecture, Agra is a must-visit for anyone visiting India. By following this comprehensive guide, you can make the most of your time in Agra and create unforgettable memories.