Agra, in the Indian province of Uttar Pradesh, is a top tourist attraction. The Taj Mahal is the sole thing that makes Agra famous, is a common fallacy. However, this place will leave you awestruck with its splendour and is perfect for aficionados. It is possible to come across a wide range of Persian-influenced architectural masterpieces in the region. Undoubtedly, the Taj Mahal is the most famous building that tourists visit in India. The world has never seen anything like it. You may also visit other temples, tombs, and the Yamuna River, as well as participate in a variety of water-related activities while you’re in the area.
Agra has seen history across ages. The city of Agra was referred to as ‘Agraban’ and ‘Arya Griha’ in the Mahabharata, which means the abode of Aryans. It was then the capital under Mughal Dynasty for fifteen years. It saw Lodi’s downfall, Akbar’s reign, Jehangir’s generosity, Shah Jahan’s love and much more.
How to reach Agra?
By Air
The closest major airport to Agra, domestically and internationally, is Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. There are frequent flights to and from this airport across India and the world. Taxis, private taxis, and public buses are all readily available from here for visitors to reach Agra.
By Road
A variety of cities and towns, including Delhi, Gwalior, Kanpur, Lucknow, and Jaipur, are easily accessible by road from Agra, and both state and commercial buses make the trip often. You can get a bus to somewhere of note in Agra from either the Idgah Bus Stand or the Indian Station Bus Terminal (ISBT). Jaipur-bound travellers may utilize National Highway 11, while Delhi-bound travellers can use National Highway 2. Thanks to the brand-new Delhi-Agra Taj Expressway, getting there is now a joyful experience in and of itself rather than a tedious one.
By Train
Agra’s central position makes it convenient to go there by train from anywhere in India. The city is immediately on the main railway lines linking Delhi to Mumbai and Chennai. Rail service connects Agra with many large Indian cities, including Delhi, Jaipur, Gwalior, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai. The Bhopal Express, Punjab Mail, Malwa Express, and UP Sampark Kranti are just a few of the trains that leave Delhi daily to service the region. At the station, tourists may easily access various cabs, auto-rickshaws, and cycle rickshaws to take them to their final destination.
Visiting The Taj
Taj isn’t just a UNESCO World Heritage site, the seventh wonder of the world, or a tourist attraction – it is a piece of history and craftsmanship that Indians have treasured through centuries. It is an experience to cherish for the rest of your life.If you’re planning to visit the Taj, here are some tips and tricks that will come in handy.
Dress up in a rainbow of colours
Take a picture in front of the Taj Mahal wearing something vivid; it will pop against the white marble. If you’re looking for some lighthearted guidance, keep reading. Women worldwide, not just in India, will be sporting saris of dazzling hues. Taj Mahal has also seen a hundred pre-wedding photoshoots; so, NO! don’t shy away from going all out.
The Right Profile
Early in the morning, the east side of the Taj’s structure almost seems to be glowing. When you stop to think about it, you’ll see that the sun rises towards the east. Therefore, the light will come from that way. It’s essential to keep this in mind if you’re trying to identify lens flares and shadows.
The Serene West
To the west of the Taj Mahal is a mosque or mihrab that is oriented with its prayer area facing the direction of Mecca in the east. Ground-level prayer mats are tiled into the floor of this mosque. If you’re willing to wait for other tourists to get out of the way, you can take some interesting pictures of the inside of the Taj Mahal.
The Moonlight Garden
Mehtab Bagh or the Moonlight Garden, across the river, is a fantastic place to visit if you want to kill some time. The admission price is INR 200, but if you want to take pictures of the Taj Mahal when it’s not crowded, it will be worth it.
Things to do around Agra
Now if you’re in Agra to visit the seventh wonder of the world and it has satiated your vision enough, there are other things to do too near the Taj Mahal. In fact, there are many wonderful places around Agra too that you can visit.
Agra has several options for tourists since it aims to keep them entertained throughout their stay. The city’s various architectural marvels and magnificent gardens provide a unique source of stimulation unavailable in any other destination. Check out this comprehensive guide to what Agra offers regarding memorable experiences.
Kalakriti Dance Drama
Seeing a live performance is one of the best things to do in Agra at night if you appreciate the arts and are a hopeless romantic at heart. Every night at 8 o’clock, you may see the Kalakriti Dance Drama Show, a dance musical that retells an ancient love epic via dance and drama. The story of the Taj Mahal’s construction and the lives of its most famous owners, Shahjahan and Mumtaz Mahal, are told in this 80-minute drama.
Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
Bird watching is a unique pastime you can enjoy in Agra that will bring you closer to the miraculous works of nature. The location of this bird sanctuary, only an hour’s drive from Agra, makes it a veritable heaven for bird watchers and environment lovers. Since it is home to over 230 species of unique and exotic birds, this bird sanctuary is one of the fascinating places in Agra.
Agra Fort
Nighttime at the Agra Fort is a must for everyone who considers themselves an art or performance aficionado. The light and sound show is one of the most popular evening activities in Agra and a great way to learn about the Mughal Empire. The more minor children and their accompanying adults will find this sound performance quite enjoyable. The utilisation of colourful lights projected onto various parts of the fort creates a visual representation of the whole Mughal era.
Water Sports
Floating quietly along the holy Yamuna River as the sun sets and creating a kaleidoscope of orange hues all around you is another romantic experience awaiting you in the city of Agra. And the boat ride offers one of the most incredible, magnificent views of the Taj Mahal. Just picture yourself and your loved one relaxing in the presence of the Taj Mahal as the sun begins to set in the backdrop.
Water World Series
The Water World is an exciting destination for tourists in Agra. Covering an area of almost 4 acres, Water World is one of Agra’s most popular and entertaining tourist attractions. With thrilling attractions like water slides, roller coasters, and a children’s play area, it’s a top destination for families searching for adventure and fun. A fantastic way to beat the heat during Agra’s sweltering summers.
Best Places to Eat in Agra
Agra is famous not just for the stunning Taj Mahal but also for its delectable cuisine. Despite its massive population, the city is a magnet for foodies from all over the world. The restaurants on this list provide some of the best food in Agra.
Peshawri – https://goo.gl/maps/ZWWAxb3EH3ZxyGSr6
Agra’s Peshawri is the city’s version of the regal eateries in other major metropolises. Tajganj is home to some of Agra’s finest restaurants, including one of our favourites. Take hundreds of pictures to share on your travel blog or social media while you’re there. Dining at Peshawri is an experience unlike any other.
Shankara Vegis – https://goo.gl/maps/61JePu5Y9cEJvrXS7
There is a restaurant on the roof called Shankara Vegis, and its menu will make any foodie go crazy. A variety of quick meals are available at this restaurant, and customers may enjoy them while gazing over the Taj Mahal. So, if you’re looking for a nice place to dine in Agra near the Taj Mahal, you should check out Shankara Vegis.
Pinch of Spice – https://goo.gl/maps/mhqYjBi2GSYYbiYz7
So you just arrived in Agra and are ready for your first major feast. If you’re looking for recommendations, Pinch of Spice will show up, and it’s as excellent a location as any to begin your culinary adventure. With Indian, Chinese and some Italian food, Pinch of Spice is one of those one-restaurant-serves-all fine dining venues that elicit nostalgia and hunger in equal parts. It also has a fully stocked bar.
Commuting in Agra/Delhi
Transportation throughout India may seem overwhelming, but a good train service with a reserved booking system makes it straightforward. You may visit Agra for a day and be back in New Delhi by sunset. The railway is the most common mode of transportation between Delhi and Agra. When departing from Delhi, the quickest trains will bring you to Agra in a little over two hours, making it feasible to spend a day seeing the Taj Mahal.
Buses are cheaper but take longer, and the price difference is negligible. When you visit the website, you may see schedules from many bus operators and buy tickets with a single click.
Best time to visit
Travellers agree that winter is the best season to view most of Agra’s sights. If you visit around these times, you won’t have to worry about sweating while taking in all the sights. It is possible to anticipate temperatures as low as 2 degrees Celsius and as high as 32 degrees Celsius during this season. During this time of year, a high of about 32 degrees is typical.
Accommodation
Planning accommodation in Agra is quite simple. Depending on your budget and need, you can explore a range of options. From luxury boutique suites to affordable backpacking hostels, you can find suitable accommodations.
If you’re planning a backpacking trip around Agra, something affordable yet comforting can come in extra handy. Let me take all of that legwork out of planning this beautiful trip.
*drumrolls*
Presenting to you, the goSTOPS Agra…
goSTOPS Agra
goSTOPS Agra is the perfect place to enjoy the luxury of ‘the view’ without it costing an arm and a leg. goSTOPS Agra has the beautiful Taj view from the rooftop while giving you easy access to all important locations in the town. All the famed monuments are close to the hostel; you can also access the array of bazaars and lip-smacking street food in Agra.
The vibrant and comfortable stay starts at only INR 350 for dorms. You can even book your own private room starting at INR 1999. You can book your stay here: https://gostops.com/book-rooms-in-agra-hostel/
Parting Thoughts
Agra is a city of culture and heritage. There’s always something interesting to see and then some. Honestly, one can never grow tired of visiting Agra – at least, I haven’t. The first time I saw the Taj, I was six. I am older now but Taj still stands timeless as ever. This article is a detailed guide for you to explore the beautiful city of Agra in all its glory.
Hope it does that:)
