13 Best Places to visit in Agra: ✔Entry Fee, Timings, Location

If you have always wanted to visit the Taj Nagri but the idea seemed too daunting, we have curated an Agra itinerary that will help you explore the most famous places to visit in Agra. With an area of 4,027 km² and an elevation of 170 m, Agra has established itself as the tourist hotspot. 

When planning to visit Agra, the most common mistake people make is to visit just the Taj. Yes, it is a major highlight of the city but there are plenty of other monuments that make for a perfect pitstop. Spend the majority of your time soaking in the beauty of Taj Mahal, however, there are other places around this monument that you can easily cover on your 2-day sojourn to Agra.

Dreaming about standing in front of the Taj already? Read on our Agra trip planner to give you a glimpse of once-in-a-lifetime brilliance.

Agra Tour – Day 1:

1. Taj Mahal, Agra

Taj Mahal | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

Located on the southern bank of the Yamuna River, Taj Mahal rises like a dream from the hazy, and oftentimes chaotic city of Agra. Completed in the year 1653, the entire Taj complex is not only a testament to the beauty and genius of artisans of the bygone era, but is also known to carry a legacy with it.

The complex was a witness to 130 years of Mughal reign. If you want to step back in history and take a peek inside what that era looked like, go for a stroll inside the complex. From the magnificent Mughal architecture to cuisines sold outside the complex, everything has been inspired by the memorable era of the Mughals.

Needless to say, you should start your exploration of the city with the Taj Mahal. It is always recommended to visit this beautiful mausoleum early in the morning; the view of the sunrise is worth every effort. The complex opens even before the sun comes up, so you can start your tour at the earliest (to avoid the crowd later in the day). It is also one of the most beautiful places to visit in Agra at night.

  • Entry Fee: ₹50 for Indians (valid for 3 hours, not valid for mausoleum entry), ₹200 (for mausoleum entry) and ₹1250 for foreigners
  • Timing: 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes before sunset, Closed on Fridays
  • Accommodation: You can easily find budget hotels in Agra close to the monument.
  • Location: Forest Colony, Tajganj
  • Distance from Agra Railway Station: 6.2 km

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2. Mughal Gardens, Agra

After taking a tour of the minarets, tombs and the entire monument, you can sit at the Mughal Garden or just take a stroll along it. A reflection of the concept of ‘Paradise Garden’, the idea of Charbagh or a Mughal Garden around the Taj was inspired by the Persian gardens. It not only enhances the beauty of the entire complex but has a long avenue of trees laid out according to their scientific names. The fountain in the middle of the garden reflects Taj Mahal on full moon nights, making it an even surreal sight than it already is. Mughal Gardens is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Agra in evening.

  • Entry Fee: ₹15 for Indians and ₹200 for foreigners
  • Timing: 6 am to 6 pm everyday
  • Location: Ram Bagh (Find hotels near Rambagh)
  • Distance from Agra Railway Station: 6.8 km

3. Taj Museum, Agra

Museum | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

By the time you soak in the beauty of Taj and spend some time, pondering over life, in the Mughal Gardens, it will be afternoon. Replenish yourself with some local delicacy and get ready for an insightful tour of the Taj Museum and Gallery. Mughal Gardens is also one of the best places to visit in Agra in one day. 

Located on the west side of the gardens, the Taj museum is the place where you can find the authentic Mughal miniature paintings including, the original ivory portraits of emperor Shah Jahan and his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Apart from these paintings, take a tour of the museum and you will find gold and silver coins dating back to the Mughal era. {Fun Fact: Do take a look at the nifty celadon plates. These were said to have split in pieces or even change colour if the food served in them was poisonous. Such a cool thing, right?}

  • Entry Fee: Nil
  • Timing: 10 am – 5 pm, Closed on Fridays
  • Location: Forest Colony, Tajganj
  • Distance from Agra Railway Station: 6.1 km
  • Accommodation: Hotels near Taj Museum

4. I’timād-ud-Daulah or the ‘Baby Taj’ of Agra

Baby Taj | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

The reason why Tomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah is called Baby Taj is pretty self-evident. Yes, it looks like a miniature version of Taj Mahal, however, it has its own charm and elegance. Located on the eastern bank of Yamuna river, the tomb of Mirza Ghiyas Beg has a resplendent architecture and intricately carved jalis or window screens. It is one of the topmost places to visit in Agra near Taj Mahal. 

This was the first structure to be built entirely out of marble stones, with pietra dura, and make use of the famous pleasure gardens. Take a walk around the monument, after which you can leave for exploring the Mehtab Bagh. All these historical monuments also make for a great itinerary for places to visit in Agra in 1 day.

  • Entry Fee: ₹10 for Indians, ₹110 for Foreigners & ₹25 for Camera
  • Timing: 6 am – 6 pm
  • Location: Moti Bagh
  • Distance from Agra Railway Station: 9 km

5. Mehtab Bagh, Agra

Mehtab Bagh | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

Conceived long before Taj Mahal came in the picture, the powerful emperor Babur built the Charbagh or famously called Mehtab Bagh. Located north of the Taj complex, this must-visit attraction in Agra is full of greenery and provides a perfect spot to view the Taj Mahal.

Also called as the ‘Moonlight Garden’, this is just the place to get a stunning view of the sunset and capture some insta-worthy shots. The scenic beauty makes it one of the best places to visit in Agra for couples. Visitors often come to Mehtab Bagh to find respite from the usual touristy crowd of the city. The garden gives them that solitude and much more.

  • Entry Fee: ₹15 for Indians & ₹200 for Foreigners
  • Timing: 6 am – 6 pm
  • Accommodation: Hotels near Mehtab Bagh
  • Location: Nagla Devjit
  • Distance from Agra Railway Station: 10 km

Time for splurging on souvenirs

After spending the entire day exploring the top 10 places to visit in Agra, it is time for some shopping in the famous markets of Agra.

So, what is the USP of Agra’s bazaar? Handicrafts and art works! Agra may not be high on the list of fashionistas but it is surely a haven for people looking to add something unique and beautiful to their collection. Start your shopping haul from Sadar Bazaar, located right next to the Agra Cantonment railway station. Here, you can easily find leather goods, handicrafts and apparels as well.

Always, we repeat, always bargain when shopping in the markets of Agra. This bazaar is closed on Tuesdays so plan accordingly.

If you are looking for some silk sarees or anything related to silk, Subhash Bazaar is the place for you. It is located near Jama Masjid in the Hawai Gali.

Apart from these two famous places to visit in Agra, you should also stop at Raja ki Mandi and Kinari Bazaar for some exquisite handicrafts and textiles.

Tip: Find some restaurants that provide an exemplary view of the Taj because nothing beats the experience of dining with a view, especially if that view is of the Taj itself. Also, do buy some packed murabbas for your kin.

Agra Tour – Day 2:

6. Agra Fort (Red Fort of Agra)

Agra Fort | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

No Agra itinerary is complete without visiting the magnificently stunning Agra Fort. Touted as one of the finest Mughal forts in Agra, this one is often underrated by both tourists and tour guides.

Among the places to visit in Agra in 2 days, Agra Fort shares a close second spot next to the famous Taj Mahal. So, for your second day, we recommend taking in the red sandstone beauty of this fort along with exploring places close by. Start with the Agra Fort. Just keep walking through the long courtyards of this huge fort and you will realize what a magnanimous structure it indeed is.

The fort was the grand plan of Emperor Akbar, who wanted this to be the military base of the Mughal Empire. And the fort did serve its purposes. However, when Shah Jahan came in power, he modified the structure a bit by making some additions with his favorite material – white marble.

A palace and a fortress, this structure has hidden legacies, myths and many corridors that intrigue visitors. From Diwan-I-Am to Sheesh Mahal, you can spend an entire day just soaking up the beauty of this place; it won’t disappoint.

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The fort is just 2.5 km from Taj Mahal and some 5 km from the Agra Cantonment railway station. Make sure your Agra trip plan includes the Red Fort as well because you wouldn’t want to miss visiting a UNESCO World Heritage site now, would you?

Tip: The Jama Masjid of Agra is just opposite of Agra Fort. Do visit this mosque before you leave for Akbar’s Tomb, the next place on your list.

  • Entry Fee: 6 am – 6 pm
  • Timing: ₹20 for Indians, ₹300 for Foreigners
  • Accommodation: Hotels near Agra Fort
  • Distance from Agra Railway Station: 5.6 km

7. Akbar’s Tomb, Agra

Akbar’s Tomb | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

At a distance of just 15 km from Taj Mahal is the mighty Akbar’s tomb. Located in Sikandra, the suburbs of Agra, take some time to soak in the legacy of one of the most important Mughal Emperor – Akbar.

According to myths, Akbar himself commemorated the construction of the tomb because it was said to be an ongoing tradition where the rulers had to build their tombs in their lifetime. Complete with minarets and inscriptions on the walls, the entire structure is built in red sandstone and should definitely be a part of your trip.

  • Timing: Sunrise to sunset
  • Entry Fees: ₹15 for Indians, ₹210 for Foreigners
  • Location: Sikandra
  • Distance from Agra Railway Station: 15.4 km

8. Fatehpur Sikri Fort complex

Fatehpur Sikri Fort | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

No trip to Agra is complete without a visit to the ancient walled city of Fatehpur Sikri. Located at a distance of around 40 km from Agra, it is famed as the political capital of Emperor Akbar and is one of the top places to visit in Agra. 

By visiting Fatehpur Sikri, one goes further back in time to take a look at the reign of Akbar. Just like Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri Fort is also listed among the World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.

Akbar first went to Sikri to meet a Sufi saint by the name of Shaikh Salim Chishti. He prophesied about the heir to the Mughal throne and after the prophecy came true, Akbar decided to move his capital to Sikri.

Just like Akbar’s secular beliefs and his idea to take in the positivity from different cultures and religions, the fort also displays the same ethos. A blend of Persian and Mughal architecture with some glimpses of Hindu, Christian and Jain culture as well, take your time to explore each structure inside the complex.

The establishment has a beautiful mosque along with three palaces, one for each of his wife. Some of the important structures you should not miss are Jodha Bai’s Palace, Panch Mahal and Hiran Minar.

  • Timings: Sunrise to sunset, Closed on Fridays
  • Entry Fees: ₹40 for Indians, ₹550 for Foreigners
  • Accommodation: Hotels near Fatehpur Sikri Fort complex
  • Location: Buland Gate, Dadupura
  • Distance from Agra Railway Station: 36.5 km

On a concluding note, if you are planning to visit Agra, make sure you do it properly rather than a day’s trip from Delhi. Take your time to soak in the beauty, history and architecture of the world-renowned Taj Mahal. Do not miss out on the other underrated yet highly significant and glorious structures.

Check Other Places to Visit in Agra

9. Jama Masjid, Agra

Jama Masjid | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

This popular mosque was built by the daughter of Shah Jahan – Jahanara. It is one of the biggest mosques in India and is known for its splendid architecture. The red sandstone construction and intricate designs on the tomb will leave you amazed. It is indisputably one of the best

  • Location: Subash Bazar, Kinari Bazar
  • Timing: 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM to 6:30 PM
  • Distance from Agra Railway Station: 5.1 km

10. Moti Masjid, Agra

Moti Masjid | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

Also known as the Pearl Mosque, Moti Masjid was built by Shah Jahan in 1648. It is one of the most visited tourist places in Agra. The mosque boasts beautiful designs and the finest architecture on white marble. The most amazing thing about the mosque is the way it stands on a slope with many side arcades and arched recessions.

  • Location: State Highway 62 Agra Fort
  • Timing: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Accommodation: Hotels near Moti Masjid
  • Distance from Agra Railway Station: 5.8 km

11. Sikandra Fort, Agra

Sikandra Fort | Among The Best Places to Visit in Agra

This magnificent fort is among the most famous places in Agra. It houses the tomb of Akbar and has eye-catching gates and designs made of red sandstone. The fort’s architecture is an impeccable blend of Hindu and Islamic designs. What’s more, the intricate stone carvings and excellent craftsmanship of the fort will leave you amazed.

  • Location: Tomb of Akbar the Great, Sikandra
  • Timing: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Location: Sikandra
  • Distance from Agra Railway Station: 13.2 km

12. Dolphin Water Park, Agra

When visiting places in Agra, make sure you check out Dolphin Water Park. It is North India’s biggest water park and a favourite among tourists. It houses an amusement park, a water park, and a fast-food plaza that serves Indian and Chinese dishes. Dolphin Water Park is undeniably one of the best places to visit in Agra with family.

  • Location: NH-2, Mathura Road, Runkuta
  • Timing: 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM
  • Entry Fees:
    • Adults (Above 4 feet): INR 550
    • Children (Under 4 feet): INR 400
  • Activities: You can enjoy different rides here, such as multilane water slides, wave pool, clusters, carousel caterpillar, merry go round, dolphin express – the kiddy’s train, and many more.
  • Distance from Agra Railway Station: 27 km

13. Wildlife SOS Bear Sanctuary, Agra

This rescue and conservation organisation is among the most popular tourist attractions in Agra. It works to conserve wildlife, especially bears, elephants, leopards, reptiles and other animals. You must pre-book the personal two-hour guided experience that Wildlife SOS offers. This guided tour tells about the history of dancing bears, their conservation, and more.  

  • Location: Inde, NH2, Murada
  • Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Distance from Agra Railway Station: 36.2 km

Frequently Asked Questions About Agra:

Q: What is the best time to visit Agra?

A: October to March is the ideal time to plan a visit to Agra as the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing.

Q: Which tourist places in Agra are UNESCO-listed?

A: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri near the city are the three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Agra.

Q: Is there an airport in Agra?

A: Yes, Agra Airport primarily serves as an airbase. However, it currently operates direct flights to and from Jaipur.

Q: Which railway station in Agra is closest to Taj Mahal?

A: Agra Cantt railway station is only 20 minutes away from Taj Mahal. Autos and cycles rickshaws are easily available from here to reach the site.

Q: What modes of transport are available to travel within Agra?

A: Autos and cycle rickshaws are readily available in all parts of the city. Tongas, electric buses and electric tempos are preferred by those travelling to Taj Mahal.

Q: How can I find a tour guide in Agra?

A: You can book official tour guides (recognised and approved by the Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India) online or over call from the Office of Approved Guide Association Agra. Self-guided audio tour facility is also provided by the ASI at Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. You can even download one of the smartphone apps to tour the monuments.

Q: Are there any popular events held in Agra?

A: The 10-day long Taj Mahotsav held in February-March every year is one of the best events in Agra. The festival attracts art and culture enthusiasts from world over.

Q: Where can I go from Agra for a weekend?

A: Mathura and Vrindavan are among the most popular weekend getaways from Agra. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is another preferable option.

This post was last modified on 07-May-2024

Mrinal Rastogi: Meet Mrinal, a content writer extraordinaire who transforms ideas into captivating words. When not immersed in writing, you'll find Mrinal strumming the guitar, playing football, brewing intricate coffee blends, or exploring the world through urban sketching. With a penchant for storytelling in all aspects of life, Mrinal's hobbies seamlessly blend with their passion for crafting compelling content.

View Comments (1)

  • Wonderful post! Agra is a very beautiful city and it is also famous for the Taj Mahal. There are so many historical and architectural views in the city. Thanks for this great article.

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