16 Best Things To Do in Agra

Agra is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India, where visitors can discover the city’s numerous cuisines, vast history, culture, and traditions.

The magnificent architectural wonders in Agra, the historical capital of the Mughal Empire, will stun you.

If you are planning an Agra tour In 2023, it is time to go beyond just visiting the Taj and experience all that this city has to offer.

Here are the 16 best things to do in Agra to help you plan an incredible trip full of adventure, cuisine, history and unforgettable memories.

The 16 Best Things to Do in Agra: Crafting Unforgettable Memories

1. Experience the Bewitching Taj Mahal at Sunrise and Sunset

Needless to say, the Taj Mahal is one of the top things to do in Agra. Your trip is incomplete without visiting India’s most famous attraction. The sublime marble Taj rises from perfectly manicured gardens, revealing its splendour at sunrise and sunset when the light casts different hues on the white facades.

Here are some insights into th Taj Mahal visit:

• Ticket Price: ?50 for Indians/? 1100 for foreign nationals/?200 for mausoleum entry for all. ( Also. entry is free for children below 15 years).
• Visit Timings: 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes before sunset.
• Closed on Fridays.

2. Explore Agra Fort

Constructed in the 16th century, the sprawling Agra Fort was the seat of the Mughal Empire under multiple emperors. The red sandstone fort contains exquisite mosques and palaces to explore. Make sure to tell your travel agent to add this to Agra day trips.

Here are some useful details of the Agra Fort:

• Entry Fees: ?50 per person for Indians/ ?650 per person for Foreign tourists/ ?40 per person for Indians on Fridays/ ?600 per person for Foreign tourists on Fridays.
• Visiting Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Open seven days).

3. Shop at the Bustling Kinari Bazaar

One of Agra’s must-visit places, Kinari Bazaar, is full of bright colours and lively energy. When planning a trip to Agra, do not miss this fancy market, here you can shop everything from jewellery to silks in a vibrant market atmosphere.

Here are the details of the market:

• Timings: 11:00 am to 9:00 pm
• Closed on Tuesdays

4. Relax at Mehtab Bagh

Mehtab Bagh is one of the popular places when it comes to Agra tours, make sure to add it to your Agra heritage walks. Perfectly aligned across the river from the Taj, these sweeping gardens provide unparalleled views of the mausoleum, especially at sunset. The ideal spot for shutterbugs to capture some of the most amazing shots of nature.

Here are the details of Mehtab Bagh’s timings and entry fees:

• Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
• Entry Fee: ? 15 for Indians/? 200 for foreign nationals

5. Tour Itmad-ud-Daulah

Those planning Agra tours, do not forget to add Itmad-ud-Dulah to your itinerary. Nicknamed “Baby Taj,” the white marble Itmad-ud-Daulah tomb is often overshadowed but just as intricately carved. Built in 1628, it’s considered a precursor to the Taj.

• Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
• Entry Fee: ? 30 for Indians; ? 310 for foreign nationals

6. Visit the Tomb of Akbar the Great

Add this place to your Agra heritage walks, the tomb of the greatest Mughal Emperor Akbar lies in Sikandra, with deer roaming the sprawling gardens surrounding the intricately carved sandstone.

• Entry Fees: 15 per person for Indians/ 110 per person for Foreign tourist
• Timings: Open all days till 6:00 M to 6:00 PM

7. Relish Mughlai Cuisine

Treat your tastebuds to rich Mughlai cuisine around the city. Indulge in silky kebabs, fresh naan and flavorful curries at restaurants like Esphahan and Dasaprakash. It should be of the top things to do in Agra. Especially if you are a foodie, the exquisite Mughlai cuisine is all you need to start and end your day!

8. Take a Heritage Walk

Gain insights into Agra’s storied past by strolling through the city with a guide. Agra is beyond Taj Mahal and such heritage walks offer a lively overview of culture and history.

By participating in Agra heritage walks, you’ll not just tour the city but explore better.

The duration of this heritage walk can be approximately three hours however the cost can vary from travel agency to agency.

9. Take in Views from Aram Bagh

Escape the crowds at these peaceful Mughal gardens, offering panoramic views of the Agra countryside dotted with monuments. This will help you see the city from a different perspective and give you a surreal experience.

10. See Wildlife at Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary

Located just outside Agra, Soor Sarovar is a beautiful wetland refuge for migratory birds like cranes, storks and kingfishers. Take a peaceful boat ride to spot wildlife. It is undoubtedly one of Agra’s must-visit places for nature enthusiasts.

11. Explore Chini ka Rauza

Next on our list is, the Persian-style riverside tomb which contains some of Agra’s finest glazed tilework and intricate design. An underrated gem. The entry in this tomb is free and you can visit here anytime between 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

12. Enjoy the Serene Boat Ride on the Yamuna River

Wouldn’t it be breathtaking to take your friends on a boat ride at dusk down the tranquil River Yamuna while seeing the magnificent Taj Mahal? This is what makes taking a Yamuna boat trip with friends one of the most incredible things to do in Agra.

• Duration: 30 minutes (approx.)
• Cost: Varies based on duration, type of boat, and tour operator

13. Savor Street Food at Tajganj Market

For those who are fond of street food, you cannot skip this ultimate experience when on Agra trip. For spicy chats and chaats, plus classic dishes like gol guppas, check out the night food bazaar at Tajganj – popular with visitors and locals alike!

14. Experience Mohabbat the Taj Show

This extravagant dance drama recreates the legendary love story of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal – an entertaining evening out. Visit the Kalakriti Cultural and Convention Centre to see this well-liked performance of the tale of the Taj Mahal. Learn how the love between Emperor Shah Jahan and his wife Mumtaz inspired the Taj while being enthralled by the dancing, music, and songs; afterwards, have a restaurant meal. Hotel transportation and multilingual show headsets are included.

15. Visit a Nearby Mughal Garden

Day trip to Nur Jahan’s Shalimar Garden or visit Mathura’s boating and bathing ghats on the Yamuna River for more tranquil Mughal landscapes.

16. Get Lost in the Old City Lanes

Wandering Agra’s winding old city streets reveals vibrant bazaars, hole-in-the-wall eateries, and striking stepwells waiting to be uncovered in ages-old side lanes.

Conclusion

Agra has so much to offer history and culture enthusiasts, from the must-see Taj Mahal to lesser-known monuments and boating on the Yamuna River.

Spend your days discovering exotic marketplaces, gorgeous gardens, Mughal cuisine, and more.

If you follow this list of the top 16 things to do while visiting Agra, you’ll have fun. Bring a camera so you can record the Taj Mahal’s breathtaking views!