Did you know Agra is the city of the Taj Mahal and was once the capital of the Mughal Empire? Located on the banks of the Yamuna River, Agra has three UNESCO World Heritage Sites and gets millions of tourists every year. Taj Mahal alone gets over 7-8 million visitors every year and is one of the most visited monuments in the world as well as the best places to visit in Agra. But is Agra only about the Taj Mahal? No not at all. The city has a mix of history, art and culture that can mesmerize anyone, from architecture lovers to history enthusiasts to casual tourists.

How did this city of Mughal emperors become a tourist destination of the world? From forts to gardens to mausoleums Agra is a treasure trove of experiences. Let’s see the top attractions in Agra and what’s the story behind them.

Popular Places to Visit in Agra

Ever wondered what it feels like to stand in front of a 400 year old structure that has stories of emperors and poets? Whether you walk through Mughal gardens or marvel at marble carvings Agra has more to offer than just views. To explore all the places together with your group in full comfort you can hire a Delhi to Agra tempo traveller which comes with budget friendly options without compromising on luxury. Check these best places to visit in Agra on your one day trip. 

Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal, a wonder of the world, is one of the most visited monuments on the planet. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century as a tribute to his wife Mumtaz Mahal, it’s a Mughal masterpiece. The intricate white marble work with semi precious stones changes colour with the sun, so every visit is different. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it still takes your breath away.

Visiting the Taj Mahal in the morning is an experience you will never forget. The calm, the soft light, the small crowds and you can really connect with its beauty. As you walk through the gardens to the mausoleum you can almost hear the echoes of history. For foreign tourists it’s not just a monument; it’s a very emotional experience.

Tips to Visit the Taj Mahal

• Get here early in the morning for a less crowded and cooler visit. Sunrise tours are highly recommended for the best views and light.
• Don’t forget to hire an official guide or audio guide to understand the monument’s history.
• Wear light and comfortable clothes, especially in summer and carry sunscreen for outdoor.
• Don’t carry big bags or sharp objects as they are not allowed inside the monument. Only essentials are permitted.
• Don’t visit on Friday as it is closed on this day
• Go on a Taj nature walk to see a peacock or hyena.
• Visit the Taj Mahal again at night during the full moon (separate ticket required).

Ticket Price

• Foreigners: ₹1,100 + ₹200 (Main monument only)
• Indian National: ₹50 + ₹200
• Children below 15: Free

Agra Fort

Agra Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of the Mughal Empire’s power. Built mostly in red sandstone by Akbar in the 16th century and later in white marble by Shah Jahan. Spread over 94 acres it was the residence and stronghold of Mughal emperors for generations.

Inside the fort are many beautiful structures, Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) and Musamman Burj where Shah Jahan spent his last days gazing at the Taj Mahal. A visit to Agra Fort is not just about history but also about the views of the Yamuna River and the Taj Mahal in the distance. This is a must visit place in one day guided Agra tour to experience the grandeur of India’s Mughal era.

Tips to Visit the Agra Fort

• Get a guide as they will give you insights into the history and importance of different parts of the fort.
• Wear comfortable shoes as the fort is huge and you will have to walk a lot to see all the courtyards and buildings.
• Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy the cool weather and see the sunset over the Yamuna River.
• Allocate at least 2 to 3 hours to see the fort properly as there are many structures and hidden spots to see. Don’t hurry.
• Photography is allowed so keep your camera or smartphone ready to capture the intricate details of the architecture and the panoramic views.

Entry Fee

• Foreign nationals: ₹650
• Indian National: ₹50 
• Children below 15 years: Free

Baby Taj (Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb)

Also known as the “Baby Taj”, Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb is a beautiful precursor to the Taj Mahal. Built by Nur Jahan, wife of Emperor Jahangir, for her father Mirza Ghiyas Beg, this tomb was constructed between 1622 and 1628 and is considered the first Mughal monument made entirely of white marble. This is among the top places to visit in Agra.

On the eastern bank of the Yamuna River, the Baby Taj is a smaller, more peaceful place to appreciate Mughal architecture without the crowds. The geometric patterns, intricate carvings and semi-precious stones make it a beauty in itself. This is a quieter, less touristy spot to get into Mughal-ness.

Tips to Visit the Baby Taj

• Visit in the morning or late afternoon for nice weather and good light for photography.
• Combine your visit to Baby Taj with Mehtab Bagh or Taj Mahal as they are nearby.
• Look out for the latticework and floral designs on the marble, it’s Mughal craftsmanship at its best.
• Don’t touch the historical monument and keep it clean.
• The tomb offers a peaceful atmosphere, making it an excellent spot for those seeking a less crowded alternative to major monuments.

Entry Fee

• Foreign nationals: ₹310
• Indian National: ₹30
• Children below 15 years: Free

Akbar’s Mausoleum

Located in Sikandra, just 10 minutes drive from Agra city, Akbar’s Mausoleum is the final resting place of Emperor Akbar, one of India’s greatest emperors. This monument is a mix of Mughal and Rajput styles as per Akbar’s vision of unity and inclusivity. The massive structure is surrounded by beautiful gardens where you can see deer and other wildlife roaming around.

The entrance of the mausoleum is marked by a beautiful red sandstone gate with white marble inlays. Inside the cenotaph is a simple yet majestic room. The peaceful atmosphere and the mix of styles make it a great place for foreign tourists to explore Mughal history and one of the popular places to visit in Agra.

Tips to Visit the Akbar’s Mausoleum

• Morning visits are best for the peaceful surroundings, cool weather and less crowd.
• Visit Akbar’s Mausoleum along with Fatehpur Sikri as both are in the same direction from Agra.
• Take time to see the calligraphy, floral patterns and symmetry in the architectural details of the mausoleum.
• The gardens are big so wear comfortable shoes and take a leisurely walk to see the wildlife and nature.
• Carry water with you to stay hydrated during your visit especially if you plan to spend time in the complex.

Entry Fee

• Foreign nationals: ₹310
• Indian National: ₹30
• Children below 15 years: Free

Mehtab Bagh

Mehtab Bagh, or the Moonlight Garden, is a peaceful charbagh garden situated on the other side of the Yamuna River, opposite the Taj Mahal. Babur had designed this as part of a larger garden complex and the Mughals used to come here to relax by the river. This garden offers a special view of the Taj Mahal, especially during sunset when the monument is bathed in warm golden light. Visitors say the Taj Mahal looks even more beautiful from here, reflected in the calm waters of the Yamuna.

Mehtab Bagh has been restored to its original glory over the years. Today it’s a peaceful oasis from the city chaos and is a favourite among photographers, nature lovers and history buffs. Foreigners love to walk through the well laid out paths and soak in the serenity which makes it one of the most famous places to visit in Agra.

Tips to Visit the Mehtab Bagh

• Go in the late afternoon or evening to see the sunset over the Taj Mahal. The light is great for photography and the atmosphere is peaceful.
• Bring binoculars or a good zoom lens if you want to get up close and personal with the Taj Mahal from the gardens.
• Wear comfy shoes as the paths are long and uneven in some areas.
• Don’t go in the middle of the day in summer, it’s too hot and will ruin the experience.
• Mehtab Bagh is relatively less crowded compared to other attractions in Agra, making it perfect for a relaxing visit.

Entry Fee

• Foreign nationals: ₹300
• Indian National: ₹25-35
• Children below 15 years: Free

Conclusion

With 3 UNESCO world heritage sites there are so many places to visit in Agra that will leave you breathless. From the Taj Mahal to the Agra Fort, Baby Taj and Mehtab Bagh, each monument tells a story of love, power and art. For foreign tourists Agra is one of the best places to visit on 2 day trip from Delhi and gives you an experience that will stay with you forever. 

Whether you’re admiring the intricate craftsmanship of Mughal monuments, watching the sunset over the Yamuna River or exploring gardens steeped in history, Agra has beauty, serenity and cultural immersion in spades. With its timeless charm and warm hospitality this city is more than a destination, it’s a journey into the heart of India’s past. So pack your bags, plan your itinerary and let Agra mesmerize you with its grandeur.