Agra is mostly popular for it’s main attraction, the Taj Mahal. However, there are so many other great things to do here that many people often skip over. Do yourself a favor and spend a few days exploring all of the other great things that Agra has to offer. These are all of the best things to do, where to eat, and where to stay on your next trip to Agra.
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Things to Do in Agra
Agra Fort
Agra Fort was one of my favorite spots in Agra. The grounds were beautiful, you’ll see cute monkeys playing everywhere, and on a clear day you’ll get great views of the Taj! Be prepared to have tons of people following you outside the entrance asking to be your guide. A guide is not required and, in my opinion, not at all necessary. However, it’s up to you if you choose to go with one.
Admission to Agra Fort was 550 Indian Rupees for foreigners (about 8 US Dollars). We spent about an hour exploring here but you could easily spend two hours or more. I would suggest coming early in the day before it gets too hot.
Tomb of I-timād-ud-Daulah
Located right on the banks of the Yamuna River is the Tomb of I-timād-ud-Daulah (also known as the Baby Taj). It’s nowhere near as large as the Taj Mahal but the design is similar. There are mosques on each side of the Mausoleum and beautiful grounds surrounding the area. There were not nearly as many tourists here so it was definitely a much more relaxed experience.
Akbar’s Tomb
Akbar’s Tomb takes up 119 acres on the outskirts of Agra and is surrounded by beautiful gardens designed by Emperor Akbar himself. It’s very common to see monkeys, peacocks, and even antelope roaming the gardens here. The tomb itself is constructed purely of red sandstones and glossy white marble and many members of Akbar’s family have tombs nearby as well. Admission to Akbar’s Tomb is 200 Indian Rupees for foreigners (about 3 US Dollars). You could easily spend a few hours here if you take time to explore the gardens as well.
The Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is easily the most popular tourist attraction in all of India and for good reason. We were left speechless when we caught our first glimpse of this palace. It’s so much more beautiful and detailed in person than you could ever imagine. The Taj is definitely bucket list worthy and one you should check out for yourself!
For more info on what it’s like to visit this Wonder of the World, check out my other post: A Sunrise Visit to the Taj Mahal.
Click here to purchase your Taj Mahal tickets ahead of time and skip the ticket lines when you arrive!
Sheroes Hangout
I only have one recommendation for where to eat in Agra and it’s an important one. Sheroes Hangout is not only a great vegetarian restaurant but it is also an amazing project and safe haven for acid attack survivors. It’s very unfortunate and extremely heart-breaking how common acid attacks are for women in India. Sometimes by strangers, sometimes by their own family members. This cafe is run by the survivors and serves as a place that gives them a sense of community and allows them to feel empowered.
When you arrive at the cafe you will be asked if you’d like to watch a short video which tells the stories of many of the women. I highly recommend doing so, though it likely will bring you to tears. I learned so much just from watching that video and it definitely inspired me to try and help in any way I could.
There are no prices on the menu, you simply donate a “pay as you wish” contribution. 100% of the contributions go directly towards the rehabilitation of survivors. I highly encourage you to check out their website for more info. You can also check out my Sheroes Hangout post. If you only have time for one meal in Agra, please make it here.
Other Places to See in Agra
- Mehtab Bagh
- Rug Making Experience
- Fatehpur Sikri
- Yamuna River Boat Ride
- Sadar Bazar
- Dayal Bagh
Where to Stay in Agra
Luxury: The Oberoi Amervilas Agra
Definitely one of the most expensive options in Agra but the views may be worth it! The rooms at this hotel are gorgeous and many rooms have amazing views of the Taj Mahal right out your window!
Price: $709 per night. For more info or to book a room, click here.
Mid-Range: Radisson Hotel Agra
The Radisson is located only 2km from the Taj and has an outdoor pool and on-site rooftop restaurant. Many rooms have amazing views of the Taj Mahal!
Price: $112 per night. For more info or to book a room, click here.
Budget: Howard Plaza the Fern
This is where we stayed during our trip. It’s only about a 20-minute walk from the Taj Mahal (yes, we chose to walk). Our room was incredible, the staff members were very friendly, and the free breakfast every morning was great!
Price: $56 per night. For more info or to book a room, click here.
Budget: FabHotel Queen Palace
Featuring free WiFi and an on-site restaurant, you really can’t beat the price for this hotel. It’s definitely not walking distance from most attractions in Agra but tuk tuks are always easy to find!
Price: $15 per night. For more info or to book a room, click here.
Agra, India Travel Tips
- Show your Taj Mahal ticket at other attractions to save money on admission. It’s not a huge discount but you will at least save on the taxes and fees.
- Hire a tuk tuk driver for the day. It’s much cheaper (and more convenient!) than finding a new driver every time you head somewhere new.
- Don’t do Agra as a day trip. Many people take day trips from Delhi to see the Taj Mahal. I would suggest staying for at least a couple nights so you’re able to see and experience more than just the Taj.
What are some of your favorite spots in Agra? Share in a comment below!
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Don’t forget to check out these other India posts:
- A Sunrise Visit to the Taj Mahal
- Sheroes Hangout: The One Place You Have to Visit in Agra
- The Best Places to Visit in Jaipur
- A Travel Guide for the Golden Triangle in India
- The Best Places to Visit in Delhi
Incredible photos and love your inclusion of useful tips. Will hopefully make it to India this coming decade, awesome!
I enjoyed reading your post and your photos are beautiful. India has been my least favorite place I have ever visited. I suppose I could give it another chance, but not sure if I’m ready for that yet. Maybe I can just read your posts instead!
Author
Thank you! Unfortunately, India is very tough on some people. We had a few very bad experiences in New Delhi for many reasons, but ultimately we’re still glad we went. It’ll definitely be a while before we go back!
Your photos are so beautiful! you were able to capture the detail and architecture of Agra Fort and the tombs.
Author
Thank you so much! I’m so glad you like them 😁