Agra Travel Guide 2025: Beyond the Taj Mahal - Forts, Tombs & Food

The Must-Visit Monuments

1. The Taj Mahal

Okay, we can't ignore the elephant in the room. The Taj Mahal is breathtaking. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his favorite wife Mumtaz Mahal, it took 22 years to complete.

• Pro Tip: Visit at sunrise. The crowds are thinner, and the soft light turns the white marble into a pearly pink. It's magical.
• Closed: Fridays.

2. Agra Fort (Red Fort of Agra)

Often overshadowed by the Taj, the Agra Fort is arguably more impressive in scale. This UNESCO World Heritage site was the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty until 1638.

• Must See:
  • Jahangir Mahal: A blend of Hindu and Central Asian architecture.
  • Khas Mahal: The white marble palace.
  • Musamman Burj: The octagonal tower where Shah Jahan was imprisoned, gazing at the Taj Mahal for the last 8 years of his life.

3. Itmad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj)

This exquisite tomb is often called the "Draft of the Taj Mahal". Built by Empress Nur Jahan for her father, it is the first Mughal structure made entirely of marble.

• Why Visit: It's peaceful, less crowded, and the intricate marble inlay work (Pietra Dura) is even more delicate than the Taj Mahal's.

4. Mehtab Bagh (Moonlight Garden)

Located across the Yamuna River, perfectly aligned with the Taj Mahal. It was the last of eleven Mughal-built gardens along the Yamuna.

• Best View: This is the best spot for a sunset photo of the Taj Mahal. You get a perfect reflection in the river if the water level is high enough.

5. Fatehpur Sikri

Located 40km from Agra, this "City of Victory" was the capital of the Mughal Empire for just 10 years before being abandoned due to water scarcity.

• Highlights:
  • Buland Darwaza: The highest gateway in the world (54 meters).
  • Jama Masjid: One of the largest mosques in India.
  • Tomb of Salim Chishti: Devotees tie threads on the marble screens asking for blessings.

Agra for Foodies: What to Eat?

Mughlai cuisine dominates Agra. It's rich, creamy, and meaty.

• Petha: Agra is famous for this sweet made from ash gourd. Try the Panchi Petha brand. Flavors range from plain (Angoori) to chocolate and paan.
• Bedai & Jalebi: The classic Agra breakfast. Bedai is a fried, puffy bread served with spicy potato curry, followed by hot, sweet jalebis.
• Parathas: Head to Rambabu Paratha Bhandar for massive, deep-fried stuffed parathas.
• Mughlai Curry: Try Chicken Korma or Mutton Rogan Josh at Pinch of Spice or Mama Chicken.

Shopping in Agra

• Marble Inlay Work: Agra is the best place to buy marble coasters, table tops, and replicas of the Taj Mahal. Ensure you buy from government-emporiums to get real marble, not soapstone.
• Leather Goods: Agra is a major hub for leather. Sadar Bazaar is great for shoes, belts, and bags.
• Rugs & Carpets: Traditional Mughal designs are still woven here.

One Day in Agra: The Perfect Plan

06:00 AM: Sunrise at Taj Mahal.
09:00 AM: Breakfast (Bedai Jalebi).
10:30 AM: Agra Fort.
01:00 PM: Lunch (Mughlai Feast).
02:30 PM: Itmad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj).
04:30 PM: Mehtab Bagh for Sunset.
07:00 PM: Kalakriti Cultural Centre for "Mohabbat-the-Taj" show (Optional).

Best Time to Visit

October to March. Winters are pleasant. Avoid summer afternoons. Taj Mahotsav (Feb) is a 10-day cultural festival which is a great time to be there.

Getting Around

Agra has a lot of "touts" and aggressive rickshaw drivers. The most stress-free way to explore is to hire a pre-booked private cab. This ensures you go exactly where you want without being forced into expensive commission-based shops.