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The Taj Mahal is one of the world’s most famous landmarks and is the first thing that comes to mind when you think about Agra, and it is understandable why. The monument honouring love has the ability to draw in a large number of visitors throughout the year, regardless of the season.
The Taj Mahal is seen as a symbol of unending love by the people of northern India. However, Agra has a lot more to offer visitors than simply the iconic monument itself. One of the best tourist places, Agra and the surrounding areas have a lot to offer tourists. In the Mughal era before the Taj Mahal, you’ll find numerous interesting remnants, as well as the hectic, packed street markets of the Old City. It’s easy to immerse yourself in rural living while being able to enjoy the outdoors. You never know what you’ll find!
Agra Fort, one of the many tourist places in Agra, is the city’s second most popular attraction. This is the second most popular tourist destination in the city, behind the Taj Mahal.
The huge palace is a “UNESCO World Heritage Site”, and it served as the home of the Mughal Emperors for centuries, during which time they dominated vast swaths of India from Agra and constructed many of the iconic landmarks that can still be seen today in this city.
There has been fortification at this strategic location in Agra since the 16th century, but the majority of the fort can be traced all the way back to that time period. The red walls of the fort, which are made of sandstone, are well-known.
If you’re looking for a place to spend a few hours, this fort is a great place to start. At the fort, there are numerous entrances and the walls run next to a river, providing a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
Mehtab Bagh is among the city’s most tranquil and pleasant gardens and a favourite tourist place. Agra’s finest monument, the Taj Mahal, can be seen from this vantage point sans the congestion! The Taj Mahal’s nearly symmetrical positioning across the river would lead you to believe that this beautiful green garden was established long after the Taj Mahal was designed.
It was Emperor Babur who first established the gardens before the Taj Mahal was built years later. When Emperor Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal, legend has it that he planned a second one in the Mehtab Bagh grounds, where he planned to be buried after his death, in the same style.
Fatehpur Sikri, a mediaeval city close to Agra, can be visited in a single day. For Akbar, the Mughal Emperor of India, this was a monumental undertaking. His tomb is located in Agra, the capital of his empire.
He began work on Fatehpur Sikri to serve as a new imperial capital. However, the new capital was abandoned within a few decades.
After Akbar’s death, the massive palaces were left abandoned and the area became uninhabitable due to a shortage of water. Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was rehabilitated by the British after they realised its significance in the history of Agra.
The Khas Mahal, another magnificent palace within the massive Agra Fort, is located within its scarlet walls. For years, Shah Jahan, the emperor who ordered the Taj Mahal to be built in honour of his queen, was detained in this marble palace when he was ousted by his son.
Seeing the Taj Mahal’s minarets from the top of the tower would have been the crowning achievement of his power in India. The Khas Mahal stands as a testament to both the wealth and conflict of the Mughal dynasty.
Without discussing Jama Masjid, a comprehensive guide to Agra’s must-see tourist places would be incomplete. Although it is a religious monument, its incredible height and architectural complexity make it a popular tourist attraction. There are three entrances inside the four-minaret Masjid, which can hold up to 25,000 worshipers.
There’s something magical about Redstone with its soaring domed ceiling, massive arches, and beautiful tapestry. The golden lettering on a royal blue background makes this “World Heritage Site” a must-see destination.
One of Agra’s most popular attractions is the Moti Masjid. In terms of architectural standpoint alone, the Moti Masjid is a must-see for anybody visiting Agra. Moti Masjid, also known as the Pearl Masjid, was constructed by Mughal king Shah Jahan and has a dazzling white exterior that shimmers in the sunlight. Only members of the “Royal Court” were allowed to use it.
The Moti Masjid’s interior features a stunning white colour scheme. The courtyard’s focal point is a white marble tank. The marble pillar sundial is a testament to the previous era’s architectural brilliance. There are numerous arches leading to the mosque’s prayer hall, however the mosque’s primary entrance is situated on the East side.
Agra’s Sikandra Fort is among the city’s most significant landmarks and a must-see destination. In addition to its ageless architectural splendour, the red sandstone monument demonstrates the region’s illustrious past. The fort is located in the city of Sikandra, where Emperor Akbar is buried. In the middle of lush green gardens, this magnificent fort stands proudly amidst the high walls that surround it.
There are four distinct sections to the garden based on the landscaping practices of that period. The architecture is enhanced by the presence of several fountains. Intricate carvings decorate the walls of the five-story Sikandra Fort, which was personally overseen by Akbar the Great. This is unquestionably one of the city’s must-see attractions.
Itmad ud-Daulah’s Tomb is one of Agra’s architectural marvels. Observing its intricate carvings and exquisite inlays is a pleasure for the eyes. Known as the “Baccha Taj” (a miniature version of the Taj), it is regarded as the blueprint for Taj Mahal.
Located on the Yamuna River’s banks, this white marble mausoleum is a stunning example of Islamic architectural and design elements. The ornately sculpted arches, pristine minarets, elaborate inlay work, exquisite floral works, and artistic usage marbles to enhance the grandeur of the structure must be seen to be appreciated.
The residence of Emperor Akbar’s first Rajput consort, Jodha Bai, this is also known as Jodha Bai’s Palace. Jahangiri Mahal and Jodha Bai’s palace are just a few blocks apart. The structure is a striking example of Indo-Mughal architecture, and it incorporates many of the distinctive architectural features of Gujarat and Gwalior.
Distance from the Agra Fort to the Rauza, or Palace, is 6 kilometres. The Taj Mahal is visible via small apertures in the palace’s interior. This palace, located in the Fatehpur Sikri neighbourhood, serves as a reminder of Akbar’s religious tolerance. The abundance of mural designs featuring lotus, elephants, peacocks, and similar animals is a symbol of the harmony between the two religions.
Visitors to Agra definitely fall in love with marble inlay after seeing the beautiful sights around the city. Subhash Emporium is the place to go if you want to take back a piece of this exquisite artistry home with you. There is a longstanding reputation for this business in Agra, India, as the best place to buy stone handicrafts.
Here, you will find a wide variety of marble inlay mementos that are perfect for taking on the road. Larger products, such as lamps, carved-marble trays, and tabletops are also available for purchase from the store and can be delivered directly to your door.
Visit Subhash Emporium for its mesmerising presentations, even though you don’t want to shop. It’s one of the best things to do in Agra.
This was our list of the best tourist places to visit in Agra. Although this list is not exhaustive, we hope it gives you a fair idea of what tourism in Agra is like apart from The Taj Mahal. To make the best out of your Agra Trip and have a hassle-free travel experience, log on to Cleartrip right now. From the best flight fares to hotel fares, you will find it all only on Cleartrip.
Ans: The best time to visit Agra is from October to December.
Ans: There are a lot of tour guides that are available in Agra.
Ans: Yes, it is safe to roam around in Agra at night. During the evening, the city’s famous bazaars are overflowing with shoppers.
Ans: Typical Punjabi and North Indian cuisine is readily available in this area. Petha, a local delicacy, is very famous amongst the tourists.
Ans: Agra has a diverse selection of hotels, ranging in price from modest inns to luxurious 5-Star resorts.
