Agra tours typically include visits to the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri, as well as other cultural and historical sites. These tours often include transportation, accommodation, and meals, making it easy for visitors to explore Agra without any hassle. There are many Agra tour packages availab...
Agra tours typically include visits to the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri, as well as other cultural and historical sites. These tours often include transportation, accommodation, and meals, making it easy for visitors to explore Agra without any hassle. There are many Agra tour packages available to help you make the most of your time in the city.
It is best known for being home to the iconic Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts millions of visitors every year. Agra is a popular destination for tourists interested in exploring India's rich history and culture.
Agra has a rich and diverse history, with its roots dating back to the ancient times of the Mahabharata. It was ruled by various dynasties including the Mughals, who made it their capital city in the 16th century. The Mughal emperors left behind an impressive legacy of architectural wonders, including the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri.
The Taj Mahal is undoubtedly the most famous attraction in Agra, and it is a must-visit for anyone coming to India. This breathtaking monument was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture and is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world.
In addition to the Taj Mahal, Agra is also home to several other impressive historical sites. Agra Fort is a massive red sandstone fort that was built by the Mughal emperor Akbar in the 16th century. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate details.
Fatehpur Sikri is another must-visit site in Agra. This abandoned city was built by the Mughal emperor Akbar in the 16th century and was once a thriving capital city. It is now a ghost town, but visitors can explore its magnificent architecture, including the stunning Jama Masjid and the Panch Mahal.
Agra is also known for its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. Visitors can enjoy traditional Indian dishes like biryani, kebabs, and chaat at local restaurants and street food stalls.
Agra tours are incomplete without visiting the iconic monuments and experiencing the rich cultural heritage of the city. These must-visit attractions must be included in Agra vacation tours.
The Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal, a white marble mausoleum, is a symbol of eternal love and is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Agra tour packages often include an expedition to this magnificent monument, built by the Mughal Emperor in memory of his beloved wife.
Agra Fort
Agra Fort is a red sandstone fortification built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in the 16th century. It houses many palaces, mosques, and halls and was the main residence of the Mughal emperors until 1638.
Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri, located around 40 km from Agra, was the capital of the Mughal Empire for 14 years. It is a perfect example of Mughal architecture and is famous for its magnificent buildings and courtyards.
Apart from these historical monuments, there are other places to visit on Agra tours. The Itmad-ud-Daula, also known as the Baby Taj, is a beautiful white marble mausoleum built by Nur Jahan, the wife of Jahangir, for her father. The Mehtab Bagh is a beautiful garden situated on the opposite bank of the Yamuna River, providing a perfect view of the Taj Mahal.
Chini Ka Rauza, a tomb built for Allama Afzal Khan Mullah, a Persian scholar, and poet, is famous for its beautiful blue and white ceramic tiles and intricate carvings. Agra vacation packages often include a visit to this beautiful monument.
How to Reach Agra
Here's how you can reach Agra:
By Air: To reach Agra, you can take a flight to the Kheria Airport, located approximately 7 km from the city center. However, only a few flights operate to and from this airport, mainly to and from Delhi. Alternatively, you can take a flight to Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport, which has better connectivity to other cities in India and international destinations. From there, you can take a taxi or hire a car to reach Agra and start your Agra vacation tour.
By Train: Agra is well-connected to major cities in India by rail, making it easy to explore the city. The city has two railway stations, Agra Cantonment, and Agra Fort. Agra Cantonment is the main station, and most trains, including Rajdhani and Shatabdi express, stop here. Agra Fort station is located in the city center and is mainly used for local trains. The city is connected to Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, Kolkata, and other major cities in India by rail.
By Road: You can also reach Agra by road, and there are several Agra vacation packages available that include transportation. The city is located on National Highway 19 (NH-19), also known as the Delhi-Kolkata highway. Agra is approximately 220 km from Delhi, and it takes about 4-5 hours to reach Agra by road. Several buses operate from Delhi and other major cities in North India to Agra. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or self-drive from Delhi to Agra.
By Car: For a comfortable and convenient travel experience, you can rent a car and drive to Agra. The roads are well-maintained, and several Agra vacation packages include transportation. However, it is advisable to hire a professional driver or use a reputable car rental service for a hassle-free experience.
Things to do on Agra Tour
Are you looking for an unforgettable travel experience? Look no further than Agra tours, where you can explore a city rich in history, culture, and iconic landmarks. With Agra tour packages, you can enjoy a hassle-free trip to this stunning destination, whether you're traveling solo or with friends and family.
One of the must-visit attractions in Agra is the Taj Mahal, and with Taj Mahal tour packages, you can experience this iconic landmark in all its glory. Built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, this white marble mausoleum is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture. The best time to visit the Taj Mahal is at sunrise or sunset when the light enhances the beauty of the monument.
Another popular tourist attraction in Agra is Agra Fort, also known as the Red Fort. Built by the Mughal emperor Akbar in the 16th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is an architectural marvel that showcases the grandeur of Mughal design. The fort has several buildings, palaces, and courtyards that are worth exploring, and it's included in many Agra holiday packages.
If you're looking to explore more of the Mughal era, consider visiting Fatehpur Sikri. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was once the capital of the Mughal Empire and is just a short drive from Agra. The abandoned city is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture and design, with well-preserved buildings that offer a glimpse into the grandeur of the era. Many Agra holiday packages include a trip to Fatehpur Sikri.
Agra is also famous for its Mughlai cuisine, which is rich and flavorful. From biryanis to kebabs, there are several dishes that you must try while in Agra. Some of the must-visit places for foodies include Peshawri, Joney's Place, and Shankara Vegis Restaurant, which you can experience with Agra vacation tours.
When you book Agra tour packages, you can also enjoy shopping for souvenirs. From traditional handicrafts to leather goods, there are several things that you can buy to remember your trip. Some of the best places to shop in Agra include Sadar Bazaar, Kinari Bazaar, and Taj Mahal Complex.
Finally, attending a cultural show is a great way to experience Agra's cultural heritage. Several hotels in Agra organize cultural shows that showcase the local dance and music forms, while the Kalakriti Cultural and Convention Centre is also a great place to watch cultural shows.
Food in Agra
Agra is a city known for its cultural heritage, and it is also known for its cuisine. The city offers a variety of mouth-watering delicacies that are a treat for food lovers. The food in Agra is a perfect blend of Mughlai, North Indian, and Awadhi cuisine, and it is a gastronomic delight for all foodies.
One of the must-try dishes in Agra is the famous Agra ka Petha, which is a sweet dish made from white pumpkin. It is available in different flavors like Kesar, chocolate, and coconut. The dish is a popular souvenir among tourists who visit Agra.
Another delicacy that one should try in Agra is the Mughlai cuisine. Mughlai dishes are rich in flavor and taste. Some of the popular Mughlai dishes in Agra are Tandoori Chicken, Seekh Kabab, and Mutton Biryani. These dishes are available in almost all the restaurants in Agra.
One of the best places to try Mughlai cuisine in Agra is the famous restaurant 'Pinch of Spice.' The restaurant is known for its delicious Mughlai dishes, and the ambiance of the restaurant is perfect for a romantic dinner or a family gathering.
Apart from Mughlai cuisine, Agra is also famous for its street food. The city has many street food stalls that offer delicious and affordable food. Some of the popular street food items in Agra are Bedhai and Kachori, Chole Bhature, and Gol Gappe. These street food items are a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
The Chaat in Agra is different from the Chaat in other parts of the country. The Agra Chaat is made using fried Aloo Tikki, and boiled chickpeas, and topped with yogurt, mint chutney, and tamarind chutney. The Chaat in Agra is a must-try for all food lovers.
For those who have a sweet tooth, Agra has a lot to offer. Apart from Agra ka Petha, the city also offers a variety of sweets like Gulab Jamun, Ras Malai, and Jalebi. These sweets are available in almost all the sweet shops in Agra.
Shopping in Agra
The city is famous for its handicrafts, including marble products, leather items, and brassware. The handicrafts made in Agra are of exceptional quality, and their intricate designs and beautiful patterns attract customers from all over the world. One of the most famous shopping destinations in Agra is the Sadar Bazaar. Located in the heart of the city, this market is famous for its leather goods, especially shoes and bags. You can also find a wide range of handicrafts, jewelry, textiles, and other souvenirs here.
Another popular shopping destination in Agra is the Kinari Bazaar. This market is famous for its beautiful silk sarees and dress materials, as well as for its jewelry and traditional Indian clothing. You can find a wide variety of items here, ranging from high-end designer wear to budget-friendly options. The Kinari Bazaar is also famous for its street food, and you can sample some delicious chaat and other snacks while you shop.
If you are looking for a more upscale shopping experience, head to the Taj Mahal Complex, where you will find the Taj Mahal Shopping Arcade. This air-conditioned shopping center has a range of stores selling designer clothing, jewelry, and other luxury items. You can also find high-quality souvenirs, such as miniature replicas of the Taj Mahal and other famous monuments.
Agra is also famous for its marble products, and the city is home to some of the finest marble artisans in India. The Taj Mahal Marble Emporium, located near the Taj Mahal, is a must-visit for anyone interested in marble products. Here, you can find a wide range of marble items, including statues, vases, and tabletops, all made with the finest quality marble.
If you are looking for traditional Indian sweets and snacks, head to the Baluganj market, where you will find shops selling delicious treats such as petha, a sweet made from white pumpkin, and dalmoth, a spicy snack made with lentils.
Best Selling Agra Tour Packages
With so much to offer, it's no surprise that Agra tour packages are in high demand. This is the best-selling package to explore! The Overnight Taj Mahal Tour by Car from Delhi covers Agra and the iconic Taj Mahal. The tour starts with an early morning departure from Delhi, and a comfortable air-conditioned car is provided to transport the tourists to Agra, which is approximately 220 km away and takes about 4 hours to reach. On the way to Agra, the tourists get the opportunity to see some of the local villages, farmlands, and the beautiful Yamuna river.
There are many options for accommodation in Agra, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Some of the best hotels in Agra include the Oberoi Amarvilas, the ITC Mughal, the Radisson Blu, and the Taj Hotel. If you are looking for a more affordable option, there are also many guesthouses and homestays in Agra that offer comfortable and clean rooms at a reasonable price.
Agra is known for its delicious street food, which includes everything from chaat and samosas to kebabs and biryani. Some of the best places to try street food in Agra include the Chaat Gali, Panchhi Petha, Mama Chicken Mama Franky, and Sardarji Ke Mashoor Chhole Bhature.
While Agra is not typically known as an adventure destination, there are still some activities that adrenaline junkies can enjoy. These include hot air balloon rides over the Taj Mahal, zip-lining in the nearby town of Kosi, and kayaking on the Yamuna River.
To fully explore all that Agra has to offer, we recommend spending at least 3-4 days in the city. This will give you enough time to visit all of the major monuments and attractions, try the local cuisine, and explore the city at a leisurely pace. However, if you are short on time, you can still get a good taste of Agra in 2 days.
Agra Fort is the most famous fort in the city and is a must-visit for all tourists. This massive red sandstone fort was built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other forts in Agra include the Fatehpur Sikri Fort and the Ramnagar Fort.
Agra is a popular destination for couples, thanks to its romantic history and the stunning beauty of the Taj Mahal. Some of the most romantic things to do in Agra include taking a sunset boat ride on the Yamuna River, watching the sunrise over the Taj Mahal, and having a romantic dinner at one of the city's many rooftop restaurants.
While Agra is not known for its nightlife, there are still some things to do in the city after dark. One popular activity is taking a night tour of the Taj Mahal, which is open for night viewing on five days of the month (full moon night, two days before, and two days after). Other options include watching a live performance of Indian dance and music at the Kalakriti Cultural and Convention Center or enjoying a drink at one of the city's rooftop bars.
Agra is known for its handicrafts and traditional arts, such as marble inlay work, leather goods, and textiles. Some of the best places for shopping in Agra include the Sadar Bazaar, Kinari Bazaar, and Shilpgram Crafts Village.
Agra is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes Mughlai, North Indian, and street food specialties. Some of the best restaurants in Agra that serve authentic and mouth-watering food are:
Pinch of Spice: This restaurant serves a variety of Indian and Mughlai cuisine, including biryanis, kebabs, and curries. The ambiance is pleasant, and the service is excellent.
Dasaprakash: This is a South Indian restaurant that serves vegetarian food. The dosas, idlis, and vadas are delicious, and the filter coffee is a must-try.
Shankara Vegis: This is another vegetarian restaurant that serves delicious North Indian and South Indian food. The thalis are a specialty here, and the service is fast and friendly.
Joney's Place: This restaurant is famous for its tandoori chicken and kebabs. It is a small and cozy restaurant with a homely ambiance.
Pind Balluchi: This restaurant serves North Indian and Punjabi cuisine, including butter chicken, tandoori rotis, and dal makhani. The ambiance is rustic and gives a village feel.
Some tips for planning an Agra tour include: