Exploring Agra – Unraveling the Majesty of the Taj Mahal

Agra is a city in northern India, located on the banks of the Yamuna River. It is best known as the home of the iconic Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Agra was once the capital of the Mughal Empire, and its rich history and cultural heritage continue to attract visitors from all over the world. In addition to the Taj Mahal, Agra is also home to many other fascinating historical sites and landmarks, as well as vibrant markets and delicious cuisine. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, Agra is sure to leave a lasting impression.

How to get to Agra

Indira Gandhi International Airport is the main gateway to New Delhi, connecting to major cities around the world. From the airport, you have several options to reach Agra:

🚅 Train: The most convenient way to travel to Agra is by train. Agra Cantt and Agra Fort are the two major railway stations, well-connected to Delhi. Trains like the Gatimaan Express and Shatabdi Express offer quick and comfortable journeys, taking about 2-3 hours. Tickets cost between INR 500-1500 (€6 – €18) depending on the class. You can book your train tickets through 12GO, our go-to platform for tickets in India.

🚖 Taxi: Taxis are readily available at the airport. The drive from Delhi to Agra takes approximately 3-4 hours, depending on traffic. The fare ranges from INR 3000-5000 (€35 – €60). It is advisable to book a taxi through reputable companies or ride-sharing apps to ensure a fair price.

🚗 Uber/Ola: These ride-sharing apps offer convenient rides to Agra for around INR 2500-4000 (€30 – €50). The fare is determined by distance and time, and can be paid using cash or card.

What to do in Agra

Agra, located on the banks of the Yamuna River, is a city steeped in India’s rich history and architectural grandeur. Known for the iconic Taj Mahal, Agra is a living testament to the artistic brilliance of the Mughal dynasty. This city offers visitors a journey back in time with its stunning marble masterpieces and captivating historical sites.

As you explore this captivating city, you’ll uncover the intricate fusion of Persian, Islamic, and Indian architectural styles that define its monuments. From the pristine beauty of the Taj Mahal to the imposing fortresses that guarded empires, Agra’s sights paint a vivid picture of its regal past.

Taj Mahal

Mehtab Bagh Viewpoint

Mehtab Bagh viewpoint offers one of the most spectacular views of the Taj Mahal from across the river, and is a popular spot for watching the sunset. To enter, visitors pay a small fee and can enjoy an unobstructed view of the magnificent monument. If you plan to visit, make sure to arrange for your transportation to wait for you, as finding an affordable ride back can be difficult after sunset. Don’t miss out on this breathtaking view of the Taj Mahal and make sure to include it in your itinerary when visiting Agra.

Agra Fort

A visit to Agra Fort is a must. Constructed during the Mughal era, this historic fort is a striking example of red-brick architecture. You’ll be mesmerized as you stroll through the fort’s courtyards and take in the magnificent views of the Taj Mahal and the rest of Agra. History buffs will love reading about the fort’s past, while those seeking relaxation can simply soak in the beauty of the surroundings.

Agra has much more to offer beyond the Taj Mahal. With limited time, we missed out on visiting the Baby Taj and other mausoleums in the area. However, one of our most memorable experiences was getting lost in the streets around the monument. Staying nearby, we took a wrong turn and found ourselves in a local neighborhood. This unexpected detour led us to discover a side of Agra far removed from the typical tourist experience. We played with local children and witnessed the daily life of the locals. It was an unforgettable and authentic experience that highlighted the charm and warmth of Agra beyond its famous landmarks.

Where to eat in Agra

We had a lot of great dinners in our homestay, but we did eat out a few times too. These were our favorites.

• Chef Signature: Located on on Taj East Gate Road, this restaurant serves some delicious curries and kebabs. Despite its modest exterior, the food quality attracts many returning customers.
• Indian Curry Palace: A bit of a walk from the Taj Mahal district, this restaurant offers delicious Indian cuisine.

Where to stay in Agra

Agra offers a range of accommodation options catering to every budget and preference. While luxury seekers may find solace in five-star hotels like the Taj Hotel & Convention Center and Doubletree by Hilton Agra, with rooms starting from 7,000 INR (~€80), we highly recommend experiencing the charm of Agra through a homestay.

For an authentic immersion into the local culture, consider staying at ZigZag Homestay. Situated a bit further from the Taj Mahal, this homestay provides a welcoming family environment, hearty meals, and convenient bike services. Dormitories start from 500 INR (€6) per person per night, while double rooms begin at 1,500 INR (~€17) per night.

Alternatively, if you prefer the camaraderie of fellow travelers, Joey’s Hostel is an excellent choice. Located just 650 meters from the Taj Mahal, it offers both dormitories and private rooms at comparable prices to ZigZag Homestay.