Discovering Agra in a Day: Things to Do and See
Agra, home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal, is a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring India. While most people come to Agra to see the stunning white marble mausoleum, there are many other sights and experiences to be had in this historic city. Here’s a guide on how to spend a day in Agra.
Start your day with a visit to the Taj Mahal
No trip to Agra is complete without a visit to the Taj Mahal. It is recommended to arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and to witness the stunning sunrise over the monument. Be sure to take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of this masterpiece of Mughal architecture.
Explore Agra Fort
After visiting the Taj Mahal, head over to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built in the 16th century, this red sandstone fortress was once the residence of Mughal emperors. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the fort and the significant events that took place within its walls.
Sample local street food
Agra is famous for its street food, particularly the chaat, a savory snack made with chickpeas, potatoes, and tamarind chutney. Make a pit stop at the famous chaat stalls in Sadar Bazaar or try the mouth-watering petha, a sweet made from white pumpkin, at Panchhi Petha.
Visit Itimad-ud-Daulah
Also known as the “Baby Taj,” Itimad-ud-Daulah is a beautiful Mughal mausoleum made of white marble and inlaid with semi-precious stones. Built in the 17th century, this monument is located on the banks of the Yamuna River and is often considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal.
Watch the sunset at Mehtab Bagh
Mehtab Bagh is a garden complex located on the opposite side of the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal. It offers stunning views of the monument at sunset and is a peaceful spot to relax after a day of sightseeing.
Stay in a heritage hotel
Agra has many heritage hotels that offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history. From grand palaces to restored havelis, these hotels offer an unforgettable experience. Some of the most popular heritage hotels in Agra are The Oberoi Amarvilas, ITC Mughal, and The Gateway Hotel Fatehabad Road.
Enjoy a traditional Mughlai dinner
Agra is famous for its Mughlai cuisine, which is a blend of Indian and Persian flavors. Head to Karim’s, a popular restaurant in the heart of the city, for delicious kebabs and biryanis. For a fine dining experience, try the Peshawri restaurant at the ITC Mughal hotel.
Agra may be known for the Taj Mahal, but there are plenty of other sights and experiences to be had in this historic city. Follow this itinerary to make the most of your day in Agra.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A: The best time to visit the Taj Mahal is early in the morning to avoid crowds and witness the stunning sunrise. The monument is open from sunrise to sunset, except on Fridays.
A: Yes, hiring a guide is recommended to learn about the history, architecture, and significance of the Taj Mahal. Guides are available at the entrance or can be arranged in advance.
A: Apart from the Taj Mahal, other attractions in Agra include Agra Fort, Itimad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj), Mehtab Bagh, and Akbar’s Tomb. These sites offer a glimpse into Agra’s rich history and Mughal architecture.
A: Agra is known for its street food. Some popular street foods to try include chaat (savory snacks), petha (sweet made from white pumpkin), and samosas. Sadar Bazaar is a recommended place to explore street food stalls.
A: Mehtab Bagh is located on the opposite side of the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal. You can reach there by taking a short boat ride or crossing the bridge. Enjoy the sunset views of the Taj Mahal from the garden.
FAQs
A: Agra has many heritage hotels offering a luxurious and historical experience. Some popular options include The Oberoi Amarvilas, ITC Mughal, and The Gateway Hotel Fatehabad Road. These hotels provide a unique stay.
A: For delicious Mughlai cuisine, head to restaurants like Karim’s, known for its kebabs and biryanis. Peshawri at the ITC Mughal hotel offers a fine dining experience with authentic Mughlai dishes.
A: Agra has various transportation options including taxis, auto-rickshaws, and cycle rickshaws. Hiring a taxi or an auto-rickshaw for the day is a convenient way to visit multiple attractions.
A: Yes, Agra offers shopping opportunities for handicrafts, marble items, textiles, and jewelry. The markets near the Taj Mahal and Sadar Bazaar are popular shopping destinations.
A: Agra can be explored in a day, but if you want to thoroughly explore the attractions and experience the city, it is recommended to plan at least 2 to 3 days in Agra.
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