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Flanked along the river banks of Yamuna is Agra. It is historically significant city situated in the Northern State of Uttar Pradesh, India. Agra is located at a distance of 206km from New Delhi and 240km from Jaipur. The majestic and charismatic beauty of Taj Mahal has lured many travelers towards Agra. Taj is not the only tourist attraction of Agra. Home of the magnificent forts, tombs, and mausoleum, there are many points of interest in Agra which till date holds the legacy of Mughal Empire.
Sited amidst the well manicured garden is Taj Mahal one of the most popular tourist destinations in Agra. Built under the commandment of Shah Jahan as a memorial for his beloved wife Arjumand Bano Begum, Taj Mahal was completed in 1653. Listed under the UNESCO world heritage site Taj Mahal has been the symbol of love from the time it has been built. The ivory white-marble of Taj Mahal were hand crafted by thousands of artist brought from all over India and Central Asia. The main highlight of Taj Mahal is the tomb of Shah Jahan’s beloved wife. The inner walls of this iconic monument are craved with intricate designs and holy words from Quran. Taj Mahal is one of the few places to visit in Agra at night.
Taj Mahal Timing: 8:00am-5:00pm
Entry fee of Taj Mahal for:
Indian: Rs 40
Foreign Nationals: Rs 1000
Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC Countries: Rs 530
(Entry for children below 15year is free)
Made out of red sandstones is Agra Fort, a historical fort in the city of Agra in India. Till 1638 Agra Fort was the main residence of the emperor of Mughal Dynasty. Agra Fort is located at a distance of 2.3km from Taj mahal. Also known as Lal-Qila or Red Fort due to its appearance, Agra Fort was the place where Shah Jahan was put under house arrest by his own son. According to legend the former Mughal Emperor took his last breath while gazing upon the white palace where his beloved laid in peace. Listed under the UNECO World Heritage site, Agra Fort is the symbol of power, strength, and resilience. Within the Agra Fort visitors can find many magnificent structures like Moti Masjid which is also known as Perl Mosque of Agra Fort.
Agra Fort Timings: Dusk to Dawn
Entry fee of Agra Fort for:-
Indian: Rs 40
Foreign Nationals: Rs 550
Overlooking the majestic Agra Fort is Jama Masjid of Agra, the largest mosque in India. Jama Masjid was built in 1648 by Shah Jahan and dedicated to his favorite daughter Jahanara Begum. Also known as Friday Mosque, Jama Masjid or Jami Masjid is a pilgrimage hub for many devotees. Tourist and devotees have been enthralled by the fine blend of Islamic architecturing style and Persian elements which reflects in the structure of Jama Masjid. The bulbous dome with inverted lotus and kalash finials are one of the highlighting features of Jama Masjid which shouldn’t be overlooked while exploring this ancient monuments.
Jama Masjid Timings: 6:00am-8:00pm
Entry Fee of Jama Masjid: Free of charge
Founded in 1569 by Emperor Akbar is a historic city in the district of Agra called Fatehpur Sikri. The former capital of Mughal Empire, Fatehpur Sikri is located at a distance of 37km from Agra. Sited on the rocky ridge, the city of Victory Fatehpur Sikri with its palace-city complex has become a must visit destination of Agra. According to contemporary historians, Akbar took a great interest in the building of Fatehpur Sikri and probably also dictated its architectural style. The garden, harems, and delicately designed mosque sprawled around an artificial lake have fascinated the minds of many travelers visiting Fatehpur Sikri.
Fatehpur Sikri Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
Entry fee of Fatehpur for:-
Indian: Rs 40
Foreign Nationals: Rs 510
Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb is a Mughal Mausoleum built in the city of Agra in India. It is the first tomb in India which was built of white marble. Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb was built c. 1625 by Noor Jahan (The light of the World) for her father Itmad-ud-Daulah also known as Ghiyas Beg. Situated amidst the well manicured garden the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah resembles a jewel box which has delicate jail screens of intricately carved white marbles. Visitors might see some resemblance between Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb and Taj Mahal.
Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb Timings: 6:00am-5:30pm
Entry fee of Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb for:-
Indian: Rs 10
Foreign Nationals: Rs 110
Sikandra Fort built in 1613 is the last resting place of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. It is located at a distance of 13km from Agra Fort. Sikandra Fort of Agra is an important Mughal architectural masterpiece which shows the completeness of Akbar's personality. Situated in the centre of vast garden Akbar himself designed Sikandra Fort which was later completed by his son Jahangir. The unique square design of Akbar’s Tomb in Sikandra Fort has intrigued the interest of many travelers and philosophers visiting Agra. Although the intricate design of tomb was ransacked by Raja Ram Jat in order to avenge his father Gokula’s death, Sikandra Fort still showcases the great vision and artistic mind of Akbar.
Sikandra Fort Timings: 6:00am-6:00pm
Entry fee of Sikandra Fort for:-
Indian: Rs 15
Foreign Nationals: Rs 110
How to Reach Agra: Being well connected with other major cities like Delhi, and Mumbai by well paved roads and railway routes, visitors can either board a train towards Agra or self drive towards it.
Best time to visit Agra: November to March is the best time to relish the beauty of this serene Mughal Empire.
