Exploring Agra: Unraveling the Majesty of the Taj Mahal

Agra, in northern India on the banks of the Yamuna River, is best known as home to the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Once the capital of the Mughal Empire, the city is full of impressive forts, beautiful mausoleums, lively markets, and delicious local food. Whether you love history, want to try amazing Indian cuisine, or just want a unique travel experience, Agra won’t disappoint. Many travelers visit Agra as part of the Golden Triangle itinerary, combining Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur for a great first taste of northern India.

How to get to Agra

Agra is well-connected by air, train, bus, and car, making it easy to reach from Delhi and other parts of northern India.

✈️ By Plane: Agra has a small domestic airport, Kheria Airport, with limited flights. Most travelers fly into Delhi and continue by train or car.

🚆 By Train: Trains from Delhi to Agra are frequent, comfortable, and convenient. The fastest option is the Gatimaan Express, which takes around 1 hour 40 minutes. Standard and sleeper trains are also available for budget travelers. Booking in advance through 12GO ensures you get a seat. Tickets cost between INR 500-1500 (~€6 – €8) depending on the booked class.

🚌 By Bus: Several state-run and private buses operate between Delhi and Agra. Journey times vary from 4 to 6 hours, depending on traffic. Some buses include air-conditioned options, while others are basic but budget-friendly.

🚗 By Car or Taxi: Driving from Delhi takes around 3 to 4 hours. You can hire a private taxi, use Uber Intercity, or rent a car. This option gives you flexibility to stop along the way in towns like Mathura or Vrindavan, visit local temples, or take photos of the countryside. Expect to pay INR 2500-4000 (~€30 – €50) for this trip. The final fare is determined by distance and time and can be paid using cash or card.

🛺 Local Transport in Agra: Once in the city, rickshaws, taxis, and app-based cabs like Uber and Ola make it easy to reach attractions like the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Mehtab Bagh. If you prefer, you can hire a driver for a full-day sightseeing tour, which usually costs around INR 1,500–2,000 (~€18–€24).

What to do in Agra

Agra, perched on the banks of the Yamuna River, is one of India’s most iconic destinations, drawing travelers from around the world to witness its Mughal architectural marvels. While the Taj Mahal is the undeniable highlight, the city offers much more for those willing to explore beyond the famous monument. From majestic forts and lesser-known mausoleums to bustling markets and local street life, Agra provides a vivid glimpse into India’s history, culture, and everyday charm. Spending a day or two here allows you to experience both the grandeur and the warmth of this historic city.

Taj Mahal

Mehtab Bagh Viewpoint

Across the river from the Taj Mahal, Mehtab Bagh offers one of the most breathtaking perspectives of the monument, especially at sunset. A small entrance fee grants access to the gardens, and it’s recommended to arrange transportation ahead, as rides back can be scarce after dark.

Agra Fort

Agra Fort is an impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see when in the city. This massive red sandstone fort was once the seat of the Mughal Empire, and walking through its courtyards and halls feels like stepping back in time. You can explore palaces, mosques, and gardens while enjoying great views of the Taj Mahal from the fort walls. When we visited, we loved wandering through the quieter corners and imagining life during the Mughal era. It is a perfect spot to combine history, architecture, and some amazing photo opportunities.

Baby Taj and Gardens

The Baby Taj, or the Tomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah, is like a little cousin of the Taj Mahal, smaller but just as beautiful. The marble inlays and delicate carvings are really impressive, and the surrounding Mughal-style gardens make for a peaceful stroll. When we visited, we enjoyed wandering through the gardens and taking in the details up close. It is a nice break from the crowds at the Taj Mahal and gives you a feel for the style that inspired the bigger monument.

Fatehpur Sikri

About 40 kilometers from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri was once the Mughal capital under Emperor Akbar. The city is an impressive blend of red sandstone architecture, grand palaces, and sprawling courtyards. Walking through its streets, we were struck by how well-preserved it is and how the site transports you back to the Mughal era. Don’t miss highlights like the Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid, and the palace of Anup Talao. Visiting in the early morning helps avoid the heat and crowds, making it a perfect day trip from Agra.

Exploring Local Streets

Agra has plenty to offer beyond the main tourist sites. One of our most memorable experiences was getting lost in the streets near the Taj Mahal. Staying nearby, we took a wrong turn and ended up in a quiet local neighborhood. It was a chance to see everyday life, play with local children, and enjoy a side of Agra far removed from the crowds. This unexpected detour gave us an authentic glimpse into the charm and warmth of the city 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.