Agra, located on the bank of river Yamuna in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, is perhaps the most well-known area of India. The fame started long ago – with the first mention of this city being in the epic Mahabharata where it is referred to as “Agrevana” or “border of the forest”.
As home to the infamous Taj Mahal, tourism in Agra is teeming every day – leading to a harried and often overwhelming experience for many tourists. Here are the top tips from TripAdvisor travelers on how to travel in this popular city:
1. Getting to Agra
Reaching Agra is no big deal. You can reach the city from Delhi(206 KM), Lucknow(378 KM) or Gwalior(125 KM) by road.You can also choose trains to Agra, which is more memorable as the railway stations are ancient.
2. Monuments to Visit
The top monument is, of course, white marbled Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world. Agra Fort, another famous landmark of Agra is the massive red sandstone fort was built by the Mughals. King Akbar ruled the entire India by sitting in this fort.
3. Other Places to Visit
Itmad-Ud-Daulah is a beautiful tomb of Jahangir’s father in law, Itmad-Ud-Daulah. Fatehpur Sikri, Sikandra, St.Johns College are other attractions to visit while in Agra.
4. Places to worship
Soami Bagh Temple, Mankameshwar Temple, Jama Masjid and Guru ka Taal Gurudwara are other beautiful places.
5. Need to stay? Hotels.
Oberoi Amarvilas is the best hotel in Agra; moreover, it’s only 8 minute walk from the eastern gate of the Taj. Trident, Taj Gateway, Jaypee Palace, Radisson Blu, Mughal Sheraton, Crystal Sarovar are some of the fantastic choices of hotels to have a memorable stay in Agra. Some budget hotels are- Howard Plaza, Hotel Amar, Hotel Retreat.
6. Time to eat, Restaurants!
Here are some of the best places you get amazing Mughlai dishes in Agra:
7. Local Eating
Madhu Icecream gets you the best ice cream in the area since 1955. The coffee bar is the famous Ice cream of Madhu. Get local morning daily breakfast at Deviram Sweets and Rambabu Paranthas.
8. It’s February? It’s Taj Mahotsav.
The month of February(18th-27th) brings you the famous Taj Mahotsav, where people from various states come and sell their handicrafts and much more.
9. Kalakriti
Do visit the Mohabbat The Taj Show in Kalakriti Cultural and Convention Center in the evening which depicts the love story of Mumtaz and Shahjahan.
10. Light and Sound show at Agra Fort
It is a show which teaches you more about the history of Mughal era.
11. It’s Shopping time.
Sadar Bazar is a busy hub for shopping in Agra. Do not forget to enjoy the Chaat there. Sanjay Place, M.G Road, you can get anything and everything here. If you want to shop some amazing and unique marble pieces, Subhash Emporium is your place. Moreover, Agra is famous for White Marble. It is also known for leather shoes, which you get in fantastic quality at Valentino. Definitely, visit Kinari Bazaar which is known for Handicrafts and Dry Fruits.
12. Panchi Petha
Agra is a very famous spot for Pethas and Dalmot in Agra. However, beware of the fake ones. (Petha is a translucent softcandy from North India. Usually rectangular or cylindrical, it is made from the ash gourd vegetable). Check out the Panchi Petha Store in Agra Cantt, Agra.
13. Nearby places in Agra
Places near Agra include Sur Sarovar Birds Sanctuary and National Chambal Sanctuary worth your time.
