10 Of The Best Things To Do In Agra
Once you've ticked off the mighty Taj Mahal, finding enjoyable things to do in Agra can get tricky. The good news? Curious travellers have plenty of options.
From the moment you step off the plane, the vibrant chaos of India greets you with its kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and aromas. Bustling streets hum with the honks of rickshaws, street vendors call out their wares, and the air is infused with the aroma of spices, chai, and sizzling street food. For the uninitiated, it can feel overwhelming, but beneath the surface lies a rich tapestry of culture and history waiting to be discovered.
While modern skyscrapers rise beside centuries-old temples and bazaars, first-time visitors often seek out the “Old India” for a taste of its historic wonders. Located in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, the city of Agra offers all of this and more.
Why is Agra so famous?
India is a land of diverse cultures, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes, offering a treasure trove of tourist destinations. At the top of the list is the Taj Mahal in Agra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is a breathtaking masterpiece of white marble, adorned with intricate inlay work and set amidst sprawling Mughal gardens.
Today, its symmetrical design, reflecting pools, and serene ambience make it a symbol of eternal love that is thought to change colours depending on the time of the day. As one of the most iconic places to visit in Agra, the Taj Mahal attracts over 6 million visitors annually, making it one of the most visited landmarks in India.
How many days are enough for Agra?
The Golden Triangle is one of the most popular tourist circuits in India, encompassing three iconic cities: Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. This triangular route, named for the shape it forms on the map, offers a rich blend of history, culture, and architectural wonders.
Unfortunately, first-time visitors to India often undertake this route in somewhat of a rush. Without realising the distances between each destination, such as the 3.5-hour drive from Delhi to Agra, there’s little time to explore further afield than the big ticket sites.
So is one day enough for Agra? Sure, especially if you’re short on time and only want to see the Taj Mahal. However, there is no shortage of things to do in Agra for those who have more flexibility and the luxury of a slower pace. If you have two or three days to spend in this city, here are a few of our top recommendations.
What are the best things to do in Agra?
After standing in awe before the Taj Mahal, with its flawless white marble reflecting the first light of dawn and the grand symmetry that has captivated visitors for centuries, it’s easy to see why this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the star attraction of Agra.
But for the discerning traveller, the city’s appeal extends far beyond this iconic monument. If you’ve ticked off this bucket list icon and are looking for more, you can’t miss these attractions.
Explore the Agra Fort
One of the most iconic places to visit in Agra is yet another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Agra Fort. Built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century, it features palaces, gardens, and courtyards, including the Jahangir Mahal and Diwan-i-Khas. The red sandstone fortress once served as the seat of the Mughal emperors and offers spectacular views of the Taj Mahal.
Shop at Sadar Bazaar
On the hunt for a true taste of Agra’s local flavour and culture? Look no further than Sadar Bazaar. Located just a short distance from the Taj Mahal, this lively market is filled with colourful stalls selling everything from traditional handicrafts and jewellery, to textiles and leather goods. Be sure you sample Agra's famous petha, a sweet made from ash gourd (winter melon).
Visit the Tomb of Akbar
For architecture buffs, you can’t go past the stunning red sandstone construction of Akbar's Tomb. The tomb's design is robust and masculine, with geometric, floral, and calligraphic patterns thought to reflect the strength of Emperor Akbar. Blending Persian, Timurid, and Indian styles, the expansive gardens are considered just as beautiful as the tomb itself.
Grab a chai at Sheroe’s Hangout
One of the more unusual things to do in Agra is visiting a cafe with a cause. Sheroe’s Hangout in Agra doesn’t just serve delicious food, but a powerful message of resilience and strength. Located near the Taj Mahal, Sheroe’s Hangout is run by a group of acid attack survivors, who have turned their experiences into a symbol of courage and empowerment.
Meet the locals at Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary
Located just 20 kilometres from Agra, Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is a peaceful wetland this peaceful sanctuary is home to over 165 species of birds, including migratory birds that flock to the area during the winter months. Visitors can enjoy peaceful boat rides on the lake or walk along well-maintained trails while observing the birds in their natural habitat.
Cruise down the Yamuna River
Love a sunset cruise? A boat ride down the Yamuna River offers a unique and serene perspective of Agra’s iconic landmarks, particularly the majestic Taj Mahal. Despite being one of the more relaxing things to do in Agra, the view offers glimpses of local life along the riverbanks, where fishermen and villagers go about their daily routines.
Try local Mughlai cuisine
Mughlai cuisine is the trademark style of food in Agra, so make sure you try the local delicacies during your stay. Renowned for the richness and aromaticity of the meals due to the extensive use of spices like saffron and cardamom, curries in this part of India are particularly rich with lots of cream and butter. Once you’ve tried petha, other local staples include korma and biryani.
Stroll through Mehtab Bagh
Want the perfect mix of a relaxed atmosphere with incredible views? Don’t miss Mehtab Bagh, a serene garden located across the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal. The garden, whose name translates to "Moonlight Garden," is particularly popular at sunset, when the Taj Mahal reflects in the water. Complete with fountains, pathways, and pools, it’s a photographer’s dream.
Discover the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah
Even if you’ve had your fill of monuments in Agra, you can’t miss the “Baby Taj”. Located on the banks of the Yamuna River and built by Nur Jahan in memory of her father, the tomb is regarded as a precursor to the Taj Mahal due to its intricate marble work and beautiful design. Unlike the Taj Mahal’s grandeur, this icon is smaller but equally captivating - with fewer crowds.
Make a difference at Wildlife SOS
Wildlife SOS Agra is a unique sanctuary dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of injured, abandoned, or abused animals, particularly sloth bears. Located just outside the city, the organization provides a haven for these bears while also offering visitors the chance to witness the incredible work being done to protect wildlife while learning about conservation.
Explore Agra and beyond with India Unbound
Established in 2007, India Unbound is an award-winning travel company specialising in custom-made journeys and private tours to India. With more than two decades of experience exploring this fascinating nation, we create unique itineraries for discerning travellers looking for their next big adventure.
Ready to pack your bags and go? To find out more about how we can bring your bucket list odyssey to life, get in touch to discuss building your ideal tailor-made journey to India.