Agra, home to the iconic Taj Mahal, is one of the most visited cities in India. As part of India’s famed Golden Triangle Tour circuit along with Delhi and Jaipur, Agra is a must-visit destination on every tourist’s India itinerary.

With its splendid Mughal-era monuments, colourful bazaars, mouthwatering delicacies, and vibrant culture, Agra has plenty to offer to travellers. Read on to discover why Agra tops the list of places to visit on your first trip to India.

What is the Best Time to Visit Agra on Your India Trip?

Agra can be visited throughout the year but the ideal time is from November to March.

• Winters (November to February) are pleasant with daytime temperatures between 12 to 22°C. You can explore the outdoor monuments comfortably.
• Summers (April to June) can get very hot with temperatures rising to 45°C. Avoid visiting during peak summers.
• Monsoon season (July to September) can have heavy rainfall. The mosques and mausoleums look lovely against rain-laden skies but rain can hamper travel plans.

Top Places to Visit in Agra on Your Delhi Agra Jaipur Tour

1). Taj Mahal – One of the Best Places to Visit in Agra

No trip to India is complete without visiting the majestic Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Emperor Shah Jahan built this stunning white marble mausoleum in memory of his beloved Queen Mumtaz Mahal. The intricate latticework, calligraphy, and precious gemstones showcase the finesse of Mughal architecture.

Visit early morning to admire its beauty at sunrise without the crowds. The shimmering reflection of the Taj in the long ornamental pools is ethereal. Don’t miss the ornate marble interiors with the queen’s cenotaphs and Shah Jahan’s tomb.

2). Agra Fort – A Regal Attraction You Shouldn’t Miss

Explore India’s rich history at the red sandstone Agra Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Emperor Akbar commissioned it in the 16th century on the banks of River Yamuna. The fort has many palaces, courtyards, and mosques showcasing a blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles.

Don’t miss:

• Jahangir Palace with its Hindu-style carvings
• The Anguri Bagh garden
• The ornate Musamman Burj Palace, and
• The Diwan-e-aam – Watch the sunset here for a breathtaking view.

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3). Fatehpur Sikri

40 km from Agra lies the eerily abandoned Mughal capital Fatehpur Sikri, built by Akbar in the 16th century. The highlights are:

• The Jama Masjid with its stunning gateway
• Buland Darwaza – Asia’s tallest gateway
• Panch Mahal – a 5-storey palace, Jodha Bai’s Palace, and
• The Tomb of Salim Chishti

4). Itmad-ud-Daulah

Nicknamed the Baby Taj, this exquisite marble tomb was built by Empress Nur Jahan for her father Mirza Ghiyas Beg.

Its intricate jali work, inlays, and carvings are a precursor to the Taj Mahal. The tranquil gardens and fountains surrounding the tomb provide a lovely ambience!

5). Jama Masjid

One of the country’s largest mosques built by Shah Jahan with striking patterns of black and white marble. Climb up the minarets for panoramic views of the bustling city. Don’t miss the interesting bazaar Chowk outside.

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India by Car and Driver CEO Ramesh Meena Shares Handy Tips for Your Agra Trip

• Hire the best tour operator India to get historical insights and skip long ticket queues at the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort.
• Wear cool cotton clothes, a cap, sunglasses and apply sunscreen during summer. Stay hydrated!
• Keep a day aside for Fatehpur Sikri as it’s quite far from the city center.
• Watch the Kalakriti cultural show at the auditorium near the Taj for classical dance performances.
• Try Agra’s street food like chaat, samosas, kachori and jalebi at places like Sadar Bazar and Vijay Nagar.

Best Markets for Shopping in Agra on Your India Trip

• Kinari Bazaar – colourful street market selling ethnic jewellery, clothing, shoes and souvenirs
• Subhash Bazaar – A wide range of marble products like tabletops, vases, and lamps. Good place to buy marble replicas of the Taj Mahal.
• Sadar Bazaar – A bustling area where you can buy leather goods, textiles, handicrafts and other knick-knacks.

Authentic Agra Dishes to Try on Your India Tour

• Mughlai dishes like rich curries and kebabs from the Mughal era.
• Petha – the iconic translucent candy made from pumpkin and saffron. Agra ka petha is a delicacy and makes a great edible souvenir.
• Agra ka Paratha – giant parathas stuffed with nuts, raisins and creamy milk solids. Have them with pickle and curd.
• Dalmoth – a spicy mix of fried lentils, nuts and spices perfect with chai.
• Jalebi – Crispy, sugary orange-coloured rings, best had hot with rabdi.

Why Include Agra in Your Golden Triangle Tour Package?

The Golden Triangle comprising Delhi, Agra and Jaipur lets you experience the cultural, historical and architectural heritage of north India. Here’s why Agra is a key part of this popular circuit:

• Home to India’s most famous monument – the Taj Mahal
• Conveniently located mid-way between Delhi and Jaipur
• Well connected via expressways and trains to both cities
• An overnight train journey from Agra allows you to maximize sightseeing in both Delhi and Jaipur
• Chance to shop for locally crafted goods like marble inlay work, leatherware, textiles and jewellery
• Immerse in the local culture with rides on elaborately decorated tongas

With its magnificent monuments, fascinating history and mouthwatering food – Agra offers an authentically Indian experience that makes it the highlight of the Golden Triangle Tour. Connect with the Best Tours and Travel Company India, India by Car and Driver to book your Agra Tour Packages today!