Agra

The 10 best things to do in Agra

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  1. Taj Mahal

  Deemed one of the world's most beautiful buildings, Shah Jahan had the mausoleum built as a memorial to his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died during childbirth.

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  2. Metab Bagh

  Known as the Moonlight Garden, this park was initially one of a series of 11 built by Emperor Babur. Reconstructed after a fall from grace, the park offers great views of the Taj.

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  3. Agra Fort

  Built by Mughal emperor Akbar, Shah Jahan transformed this red sandstone structure, also known as the Red Fort, into a palace. It later became his prison once his son took power.

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  4. Moti Masjid

  Known as the "Pearl Mosque" for the use of white marble, Shah Jahan built this mosque in Agra Fort for the royal members of the court in 1654.

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  5. Jahangir Palace

  Emperor Akbar built this residence for his favorite son, Jahangir, within the Agra Fort. The Mughal architecture of the palace also integrates Hindu and Central Asian influences.

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  6. Itimad-ud-Daulah

  Noted as the "Baby Taj Mahal," the white marble mausoleaum on the Yamuna River contains the remains of Persian nobleman Mizra Ghiyas Beg, who was Mumtaz Mahal's grandfather.

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  7. Chini Ka Rauza

  The tomb of Afzal Khan, who was a poet and Shah Jahan's chief minister, reflects Persian-style architecture and is famous for its glazed tiles, or chini, in various hues.

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  8. Guru ka Tal

  Dedicated to Guru Tegh Bahadur, the holy site for Sikhs was first a repository for rainwater. The 17th-century structure has eight of the original twelve towers.

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  9. Jama Masjid

  Commissioned by Shah Jahan's daughter, Jahanara Begum, the 17th-century "Friday Mosque" is one of the largest in India. The red sandstone design reflects Mughal influences.

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  10. Tomb of Akbar the Great

  According to tradition, the emperor began the construction of this red sandstone mausoleum during his lifetime. Yet, it was his son who completed the top portion in white marble.

Frequently asked questions about Agra

Planning Your Visit

• How many days to spend in Agra?

  Although many visitors arrive from Delhi on a day-trip, Agra offers two to three days worth of sightseeing. A stay here also makes it easier to reach the imperial complex of Fatehpur Sikri, which is 22 miles from Agra.

• Getting around

  Apart from taxis and buses, tuk-tuks and autorickshaws are the norm, and its best to choose one that appears to be in relatively suitable condition. Bicycle rickshaws are another option, as they can make it convenient for the area around the Taj Mahal, which is free from cars and taxis.

• Where to stay in Agra

  The areas of Tajganj and Basai make it easy to see the main sights of the city. Buses on Fatehabad and Taj Roads connect the district to the city center.