Agra, on the banks of the Yamuna River, is one of India’s most visited heritage cities. The city is world-famous for the Taj Mahal, a symbol of eternal love and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Agra Fort, with its grand Mughal architecture, offers both history and panoramic views of the Taj. Other attractions include Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb (Baby Taj), Mehtab Bagh, and Akbar’s Tomb at Sikandra. Agra is also known for its handicrafts, marble inlay work, leather goods, and the sweet petha, which is a local delicacy.
FATEHPUR SIKRI
As far as Fatehpur Sikri is concerned, this city is located about 40 kms from Agra. Fatehpur Sikri was once the magnificent capital of Emperor Akbar. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its unique blend of Mughal and Persian architecture. The highlights include the Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid, Panch Mahal, and Diwan-i-Khas. The site tells stories of Mughal grandeur as well as Akbar’s experiments with religion and governance. Today, it stands as a “ghost city,” attracting tourists with its red sandstone beauty and historic charm.
Top Attractions to Visit in Agra
- Taj Mahal: This world-renowned white marble mausoleum is a testament to a love story and a global icon. It is counted as one of the seven wonders of the world, the only one from India.
- Agra Fort: A monumental fort made of red sandstone; this site served as the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty.
- Fatehpur Sikri: A captivating ancient city, this UNESCO site was the former capital of the Mughal Empire, featuring unique architecture.
- Akbar’s Tomb: Located in Sikandra, this tomb blends Islamic and Hindu architectural styles and is the resting place of Emperor Akbar.
- Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb: Also known as the “Baby Taj,” this mausoleum is the first Mughal structure built entirely of marble and extensively uses ‘pietra dura’ inlay work.
- Mehtab Bagh: A park across the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal, offering excellent sunset views.
2 NIIGHT/3 DAY ITINERARY TO AGRA
Day 1: Delhi → Agra (Travel + Evening Sightseeing)
- Morning Travel Options:
- By Train: Take the Gatimaan Express (8:10 AM from Hazrat Nizamuddin, reaches Agra at 9:50 AM). Fastest and comfortable.
- By Road: Drive or hire a cab via Yamuna Expressway (~3.5–4 hours).
- Check-in at your hotel in Agra.
Afternoon & Evening:
- Mehtab Bagh – a garden complex across the Yamuna with a gorgeous sunset view of the Taj Mahal.
- Stroll in Agra markets (Sadar Bazaar or Kinari Bazaar) for handicrafts, marble inlay work, and petha (Agra sweet).
Day 2: Agra Sightseeing
- Early Morning:
- Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise – the best time (less crowd, magical lighting).
- Breakfast at hotel.
Day Tour:
- Agra Fort – UNESCO site with Mughal architecture, palaces, and river views.
- Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb – known as the ‘Baby Taj’
- Optional: Visit Akbar’s Tomb in Sikandra (which is at a short drive distance away).
Evening:
- Explore local cafés with Taj views (At Oberoi Amarvilas, Taj Agra)
Day 3: Agra → Fatehpur Sikri → Delhi
- Morning Check-out:
- Drive (around 1 hour) to Fatehpur Sikri, Akbar’s abandoned capital. The key attractions here include: Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid, Panch Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas.
- Later, you can have lunch en route on Yamuna Expressway.
- Return to Delhi by late afternoon/evening (train or car).
Tips to Remember
- Tickets: Book Taj Mahal tickets. Entry is closed on Fridays (owing to Jumma Day)
- Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon for photography and pleasant weather.
- Clothing: Light cottons in summer, carry a shawl/jacket in winter mornings/evenings.
- Shoes: Wear comfortable walking shoes; many sites have large grounds.
- Guides: Hire only government-approved guides at monuments to avoid scams.
- Food to Try: Agra Petha, Mughlai curries & Jalebi for breakfast.
- Souvenirs: Marble inlay items, handicrafts, leather goods.
Agra, as a popular tourist destination and a city offering a discovery of the beautiful era. Agra has a rich history, reflected in its numerous monuments dotted in and around the city. It offers a trail of fascinating tombs and mausoleums to explore. Acclaimed for its lavish crafts like Pietra Dura (marble inlay) work, rugs and leather goods, and the luscious Petha, Agra equally caters well to shopaholics and foodies.
