Agra is a city in northern India that’s famous for the Taj Mahal, a beautiful marble mausoleum built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife. But there’s more to see in Agra, including historical sites, gardens, and tombs.
Agra Fort is a massive fortress made of red sandstone that served as the Mughal Empire’s seat for generations. Fatehpur Sikri is a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning buildings and Mughal-era architecture just outside Agra. Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, also called the Baby Taj, is a beautiful mausoleum built by Empress Nur Jahan in memory of her father. Mehtab Bagh is a garden complex across the river from the Taj Mahal that offers a unique view of the iconic monument.
Akbar’s Tomb is a grand mausoleum built by Mughal Emperor Akbar for himself in the suburbs of Agra. Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India and a beautiful example of Mughal-era architecture. Chini Ka Rauza is a lesser-known but stunning tomb built in the Persian style. Ram Bagh is one of the oldest Mughal-era gardens in India and a lovely place to relax. Finally, Guru Ka Taal is a Sikh pilgrimage site in Agra with a beautiful gurudwara (Sikh temple) that has significant historical and religious significance.
List of Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Agra
1. Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is undoubtedly one of the most iconic landmarks and a must-visit destination in Agra, India. The beautiful Mughal complex is an epitome of love, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The stunning marble mausoleum attracts millions of tourists every year from all over the world.
Highlights:
1. To enter the Taj Mahal, foreign visitors purchase a ticket for Rs1,100, while cashless payments are charged Rs1,050.
2. The monument is open to visitors from 6:00 to 19:30 every day, except Fridays.
3. It is recommended to allocate 2-3 hours to explore the complex thoroughly.
4. Tourists can reach the Taj Mahal by taking a tutu or a chartered car from the city center. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the crowds are smaller, and the light is perfect for photography.
Overall, visiting the Taj Mahal is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that shouldn’t be missed, and it will leave a lasting impression on every traveler.
2. Agra Fort
Agra Fort, also known as the Red Fort, is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Agra, India. It is a massive fortress built of red sandstone and is one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture in India.
- The fort was built by Emperor Akbar in the mid-16th century and was later expanded by his grandson, Shah Jahan. Agra Fort served as the seat of the Mughal Empire for several generations, and it played a significant role in Indian history.
- Agra Fort is a historical fortress that is famous for its red sandstone walls and intricate carvings. It was built in the 16th century during the Mughal era and served as the main residence for the Mughal emperors until the capital was shifted to Delhi. The fort complex contains several impressive buildings, including the Jahangir Mahal, the Khas Mahal, and the Sheesh Mahal.
Highlights:
- The ticket price to enter Agra Fort is Rs300 for foreigners, and visitors can get an Rs50 discount if they show tickets to the Taj Mahal.
- The fort is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset and can be reached by tutu or charted car.
- Visitors can expect to spend around 3 hours exploring the fort and its various buildings and gardens.
3. Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri is a historical city situated just outside of Agra, India. The city was founded by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in the 16th century and served as the capital of the Mughal Empire for a short period. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its beautiful buildings and Mughal-era architecture.
- The city was named after the Sufi saint, Sheikh Salim Chishti, who blessed Emperor Akbar with a son. The city was constructed as a tribute to the saint and was built using the best materials of the time. Fatehpur Sikri is home to several stunning buildings, including the Buland Darwaza, which is the highest gateway globally, and the Diwan-i-Khas, a magnificent palace renowned for its intricate carvings and decorations.
- Fatehpur Sikri is famous for its blend of Hindu, Islamic, and Persian architectural styles. The city is a testament to the cultural and architectural diversity of India, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Indian history and culture. The city is divided into two parts, the mosque, and the royal palace buildings. Visitors can appreciate many excellent temples and palace complexes, creating it a meaningful top place to visit in Agra.
Highlights:
- The ticket price for foreigners is Rs510, while children under 15 years can enter for free.
- The opening time is from sunrise until sunset, and tourists can reach Fatehpur Sikri by bus or taxi.
- It takes around 2-3 hours to explore the city fully.
A visit to Fatehpur Sikri is a journey back in time to the glorious days of the Mughal Empire, and it is an experience that should not be missed.
4. Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb
Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, also known as the Baby Taj, is a beautiful mausoleum located in Agra, India. The tomb was built in 1648 by Empress Nur Jahan in memory of her father, Mirza Ghiyas Beg.
- It is a stunning example of Mughal architecture, featuring intricate carvings and inlay work of precious stones such as jasper and onyx. The tomb’s white marble structure is adorned with floral designs and intricate patterns, and it is set in a beautiful garden complex that further adds to its charm.
- The Baby Taj is considered one of the most beautiful Mughal-era tombs in India, and its historical and architectural significance makes it a popular destination for tourists visiting Agra. It is a small tomb but its exquisite design makes it a must-visit place in Agra.
Highlights:
- Ticket Price: Rs310 for foreigners; Rs30 for Indians
- Opening Time: From sunrise to sunset except during prayer times Transportation: By tuk-tuk or bus
- Time Reference: 1-3 hours
5. Mehtab Bagh
Mehtab Bagh is a garden complex located in Agra, India, across the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal. Originally built by the Mughal Emperor Babur in the 16th century, it was later expanded and restored by Emperor Shah Jahan.
- The garden complex spans an area of around 25 acres and features pavilions, fountains, and water channels. Mehtab Bagh is a popular tourist spot as it offers breathtaking views of the Taj Mahal. Visitors can take a stroll through the gardens, relax by the water, and admire the beauty of the Taj Mahal from a unique perspective. The garden is also an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts who wish to capture stunning images of the Taj Mahal, especially during sunrise and sunset.
- As Mehtab Bagh is located on the north bank of the Yamuna River, it provides an excellent view of the Taj Mahal. It is an ideal spot to witness the beauty of the Taj Mahal during sunset and take a leisurely walk along the Yamuna River.
Highlights:
- The entry fee for Mehtab Bagh is Rs. 100 for foreigners and an additional Rs. 25 for photography.
- It is open from sunrise to sunset, and tourists can easily reach the garden complex by taking a tutu or an auto-rickshaw.
- Allocate 1-2 hours to explore the garden and enjoy the magnificent views of the Taj Mahal.
6. Akbar's Tomb
Akbar’s Tomb, also known as Sikandra Fort, was indeed built by Akbar himself and not by Jahangir. Here is the corrected response:
- Akbar’s Tomb, also known as Sikandra Fort, is a grand mausoleum located in the suburbs of Agra, India. It was built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar himself and combines Mughal and Hindu architectural styles.
- The tomb is situated in the center of a large garden and is made of red sandstone and white marble. The impressive structure stands 119 feet high and has four minarets. The tomb houses Akbar’s mortal remains and is a popular tourist destination in Agra. It is a fine example of Mughal architecture and showcases the unique blend of different architectural styles that were typical of the Mughal era.
- Akbar’s Tomb is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, or the Mughal era. The monument is an impressive feat of engineering and features intricate carvings and beautiful designs. Visitors can explore the tomb and its surrounding gardens and take in the beauty of the structure and its surroundings. The tomb is also a popular spot for photography and offers great views of the surrounding landscape.
Highlights:
- Ticket Price: Rs310 for foreigners; Rs15 for children under 15 years old.
- Opening Time: from sunrise to sunset
- Transportation: By bus or taxi
- Time Reference: 1-2 hours.
7. Jama Masjid
The Jama Masjid in Agra is one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in India. It was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1648 and is an excellent example of Mughal architecture.
- The mosque is made of red sandstone and features beautiful domes, minarets, and arches. The mosque’s courtyard can accommodate thousands of worshippers at a time.
- Visitors of all religions are welcome, but they are expected to dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the mosque. It is a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims and provides a unique glimpse into the rich religious and cultural heritage of India.
Highlights:
- Ticket Price: Free
- Opening Time: from sunrise to sunset except for worship time
- Transportation: By tutu or bus Time Reference: 1-3 hours
8. Chini Ka Rauza
Chini Ka Rauza is a mausoleum located on the banks of the Yamuna River in Agra. It was built in the late 16th century by Afzal Khan, a Persian scholar, and poet who served as the Prime Minister in the court of Mughal Emperor Jahangir.
- The tomb is known for its beautiful glazed tile work, which gives it the name “Chini Ka Rauza” (meaning “Tomb of China”). The intricate tile work features floral and geometric designs in a range of colors, including blue, green, and yellow.
- The tomb is also decorated with verses from the Quran and features a small mosque adjacent to it. Though it is not as well-known as some of the other historical sites in Agra, Chini Ka Rauza is a unique and impressive monument that is worth a visit.
Highlights:
- Ticket Price: Free Opening Time: from sunrise to sunset
- Transportation: By tutu or bus
- Time Reference: 1-2 hours
9. Ram Bagh
Ram Bagh is an important historical landmark in Agra and a must-visit destination for those interested in Mughal architecture and history. The garden’s layout and design are based on the traditional Charbagh style of Mughal gardens, with four quadrants divided by walkways and water channels.
- The garden is home to a variety of trees, plants, and flowers, including mango trees, guava trees, and rose bushes. Visitors can also enjoy the garden’s fountains, which were added during the reign of Emperor Akbar.
- Ram Bagh is also home to several tombs and pavilions that date back to the Mughal era. The most notable among them is the tomb of Gulbadan Begum, the daughter of Emperor Babur. The white marble tomb is a masterpiece of art, featuring intricate carvings and paintings that add to its timeless beauty.
- Visitors can also see the Chahar Bagh pavilion, which is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture and features intricate stone carvings and latticework.
Highlights:
- Ram Bagh is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset, except during worship time.
- Visitors can reach the garden by hiring a tutu or taking a bus.
- At least 1-3 hours in the garden to fully appreciate its natural beauty, historic significance, and peaceful ambiance.
Overall, Ram Bagh is a peaceful and serene top 10 place to visit in Agra and a perfect destination for those looking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty. It is also a great place to learn about the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Mughal era.
10. Guru ka Tal
Guru ka Tal is a serene and peaceful site located on the outskirts of Agra, in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is a holy site for Sikhs and is known for its peaceful environment and religious significance.
- The Gurudwara, which means a place of worship for Sikhs, is built around a large pond and is surrounded by lush green gardens. It is said that the pond was dug by the sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, during his visit to Agra in the 17th century.
- The Gurudwara is a place of pilgrimage for Sikhs, and devotees from all over India come to visit it. The peaceful environment and the beautiful surroundings make it an ideal place for meditation and introspection.
- The Gurudwara also serves langar, a free meal that is offered to all visitors, regardless of their religion or caste.
Guru Ka Tal is a holy site for Sikhs and a place of pilgrimage that offers a peaceful and serene environment for meditation and introspection.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Agra is rich in history, culture, and architecture. From the iconic Taj Mahal and Agra Fort to the lesser-known but equally beautiful sites like Chini Ka Rauza and Ram Bagh, Agra has to offer visitors. Whether you’re interested in Mughal-era architecture, religious pilgrimage sites, or want to relax in a beautiful garden, Agra has something for everyone.
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