Things to do in Agra: the Taj Mahal, must-sees and where to stay
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In short: Agra is first and foremost the Taj Mahal, a white marble mausoleum best seen at sunrise. Add Agra Fort, the tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, nicknamed the “Baby Taj”, the sunset view from Mehtab Bagh garden, and the former Mughal capital of Fatehpur Sikri. Note: the Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays.
The Taj Mahal
Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, the Taj Mahal is one of the world’s most famous monuments. Arrive at opening time for the morning light and smaller crowds. Tickets are sold online on the official website or on site; the list of items allowed inside is short, so travel light.
Agra Fort
Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, red sandstone Agra Fort houses palaces and audience halls. From its terraces you can see the Taj Mahal in the distance.
The “Baby Taj”
The tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, in marble inlaid with stones, is more intimate and often quieter than the Taj. Many see it as a draft of its famous neighbour.
Mehtab Bagh
Opposite the Taj, across the Yamuna, Mehtab Bagh garden offers a superb view of the mausoleum at sunset, away from the crowds.
Inlaid marble
Agra keeps alive the art of marble inlay (pietra dura), seen at the Taj. Be wary of shops that touts and drivers take you to.
Day trips from Agra
- Fatehpur Sikri, the former Mughal capital, a UNESCO site.
- Jaipur, the Pink City, to continue the Golden Triangle.
- Delhi, by fast train or expressway.
Getting around
- From Delhi, several fast trains a day or the expressway.
- In town, rickshaws and ride-hailing apps; a driver for the day is handy for Fatehpur Sikri.
- Around the Taj, vehicle traffic is restricted: expect a short walk.
All our tips for the country: Travel in India.
Where to stay in Agra?
- Taj Ganj. Just south of the Taj Mahal: ideal for arriving at opening time, with rooftop views. Ideal for: budget, sunrise.
- Around the Taj Mahal’s east gate. Large, quiet hotels a few minutes from the monument. Ideal for: couples, comfort.
- Cantonment (Sadar Bazaar). A more spacious area with restaurants and a market, a few kilometres from the Taj. Ideal for: families, quiet.
The areas and useful services are on our Agra page.
Frequently asked questions
Which day is the Taj Mahal closed?
Friday. Plan your time in Agra accordingly.
Should I stay overnight in Agra?
It's a good idea to see the Taj Mahal at sunrise, without hours on the road from Delhi in the early morning.
How long should I allow at the Taj Mahal?
Two to three hours, for the mausoleum, the gardens and the viewpoints.
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