Places which You will Love to Visit in Agra

About Agra

Agra, a city located on the banks of the Yamuna River in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, holds a significant place in India’s history and tourism. Situated approximately 235 kilometers away from the national capital Delhi, Agra is easily accessible via the Yamuna Expressway. Renowned for its magnificent World Heritage sites, including the iconic Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri, the city attracts tourists from around the world.

Agra’s crown jewel, the Taj Mahal, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an architectural marvel that symbolizes eternal love. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal stands as a testament to exquisite craftsmanship and timeless beauty. Its pristine white marble facade, intricate carvings, and lush gardens make it one of the most visited landmarks in the world.

Aside from the Taj Mahal, Agra is home to several other noteworthy attractions. The Agra Fort, a red sandstone fortress, showcases the rich Mughal architectural style and offers breathtaking views of the Taj Mahal from its premises. Fatehpur Sikri, a deserted city located near Agra, is another UNESCO World Heritage site and an architectural masterpiece. The city was built by Emperor Akbar and served as the Mughal capital for a brief period.

Agra boasts numerous other captivating places that are worth exploring. Sikandra, the tomb of Emperor Akbar, exhibits a fusion of Islamic, Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain architectural elements. Itmad-ud-Daulah, also known as the Baby Taj, is a beautiful mausoleum showcasing intricate marble inlay work. Soor Sarovar, a scenic lake surrounded by temples and gardens, offers a tranquil retreat for visitors.

For history enthusiasts, Agra presents fascinating sites such as Chausath Khamba, a marble pavilion featuring 64 pillars, and the Roman Catholic Cemetery, a historic burial ground dating back to the British era. Chini ka Rauza, an ornate mausoleum showcasing Persian-inspired architecture, and Mariam’s Tomb, dedicated to Akbar’s wife Mariam-uz-Zamani, are also worth a visit.

Agra’s religious heritage is exemplified by the presence of temples and shrines. The Chhatri of Raja Jaswant Singh, a splendid marble cenotaph, and Dayal Bagh, a unique temple complex known for its intricate marble work, are among the religious landmarks in the city. Kailash Temple and Mankameshwar Temple are revered Hindu temples that attract devotees from far and wide. Guru ka Taal, a historic Sikh pilgrimage site, holds significance in Sikh history and is visited by followers of the faith.

Some of the most famous tourist spots in Agra are:

1. Taj Mahal:

A masterpiece which was constructed by  Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Taj mahal construction was completed in 17 years by the 20,000 workers (approx) employed on regular besis with the help of white marbles.

Taj Mahal is among one of the seven wonders of the world.  The Taj is the most beautiful monument built by the Mughals during Muslim rules in India. Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore Described it as “the tear-drop on the cheek of time”.

Timings:

Taj Mahal is open from sunrise to sunset during normal days and  is closed on Friday and opened on Friday afternoon only those who have to attend prayers at the Taj Mosque.

Entry Fees:

Foreign Tourist                                                                 1000/-

Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC Countries                  530/-

Domestic/Indian Rs.                                                           40/-

Online Ticket:  asi.payumoney.com

2. Agra Fort

Agra Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site situated in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. It is also known as Lal Qila, Fort Rouge and Red Fort of Agra. It is approx 2.5 km far from the the Taj Mahal. Agra fort built by Akbar With the help of Red Sandstone.

There are many diiferent you can see here:

1. Sheesh Mahal
2. The Diwan-i-Am
3. Diwan-i-Khas
4. The Anguri Bagh
5. Khas Mahal
6. Mina Masjid
7. Nagina Masjid
8. Musamman Burj

Timings:   Open everyday from sunrise to sunset

Entry Fees:

Foreigners: Rs 520/-
Indians:  Rs 20/-

3. Fatehpur Sikri:

Different Places which you can see here:

1. Diwan-i-Khas
2. Panch Mahal
3. Tomb of Salim Chisti
4. Buland Darwaza
5. Diwan-I-Am
6. Turkish Sultana & Rsquo’s House
7. The Treasury
8. Daulat khana-I-khas
9. Palace of Jodha Bai
10. Hawa Mahal And Nagina Masjid
11. Birbal & Rsquo’s Palace
12. Sunehra Makan and The Jama Masjid

Timings:   Open everyday from sunrise to sunset

Entry Fees:

Foreigners: Rs 485/-
Indians: Rs 50/-

4. Sikandara:

Sikandra a beautiful monument constructed by Akbar. This structure is the perfect combination of Hindu, Christian, Islamic, Buddhist, Jain themes. Sikandra is named after Sikandar lodi, the Delhi ruler who was in power from 1488 to 1517.

First attraction of this place is the splendid gateway with its four minarets that have been intricately carved. The striking inlay of white marble on the red sandstone is also grand. This is a must visit place for all those who want to feel an environment of best serenity and peace.

The outlaying garden which is laid out in the Char Bagh style is yet another attraction of this place which you will love to visit again and again. The tomb of Mariam, Jehangir’s mother, is also located close to the imposing red sandstone building.

Perfect Time to Visit:

Winter season is the perfect time to visit Sikandra, when days are warm and sunny, ideal for sight viewing environment.

Timings:   Open everyday from sunrise to sunset

Entry Fees:

Indian citizens, visitors of SAARC (Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Maldives and Afghanistan) and Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Myanmar) – Rs. 5 per head.
Rs. 10/- per head as Toll Tax (Agra Development Authority)

Others: US $ 2 or Indian Rs. 100/- per head (ASI)
Rs. 10/- per head as Toll Tax (Agra Development Authority) (Fridays free entry by ADA)
Rs. 500/- Ticket of ADA is valid for the monuments of Agra Fort, Itimadi-ud-daula, Akbar & Rsquo’s Tomb, Sikandara and Fatehpur Sikri

(Free entry to children up to 15 years)

5. Itmad Ud Daulah:

Itmad ud Daula is the first tomb in India that is fully made out of white Marble instead of red sandstone. This is actually a mausoleum that overlooks the River Yamuna and is a tomb of Mir Ghiyas Beg, a minister in the court of Shah Jahan.

Timings:   Open everyday from sunrise to sunset

Entry Fees:

Foreigners: Rs 110/-
Indians: INR Rs 10/-

(Free entry to children up to 15 years)

To further enhance the connectivity of these popular tourist spots, a Metro Rail project has been proposed in Agra. This initiative aims to provide convenient transportation options for visitors, making their travel experience even more enjoyable.

For travelers planning a visit to Agra, there are various transportation options available. Agra can be easily reached from Delhi by bus, train, plane, or private cars. The Yamuna Expressway provides a smooth and efficient road link between the two cities. Additionally, Agra has its own airport, the Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport, which offers domestic flight connections.

Conclusion,

Agra, with its awe-inspiring heritage sites, rich cultural history, and proposed development projects, continues to attract visitors from around the globe. Whether it’s exploring the architectural marvels like the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, or delving into the city’s diverse religious and cultural landmarks, Agra offers an enriching experience that leaves a lasting impression on every traveler.