Known for housing the Taj Mahal, Agra boasts a far more extensive architectural and historical heritage.... Beyond this emblematic monument, the city is home to several must-see sites from the Mughal era, through which history unfolds like a tale... Mausoleums, gardens, palaces: discover the 10 finest sites of Agra and its surroundings!

What to do in Agra?

1. The Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is located in Agra, on the right bank of the Yamuna River. This mausoleum was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died in childbirth in 1631 (giving birth to their fourteenth child). This symbolic building represents the epitome of eternal love.

Its construction, which began the same year, was completed in 1648. This masterpiece blends Muslim, Persian, Ottoman, and Indian architectural styles and comprises minarets, a mosque, and symmetrical gardens.

The materials, imported from across Asia, were transported on the backs of elephants at the time. This is why the Taj Mahal is composed of lapis lazuli from Sri Lanka, coral from the Red Sea, crystal from the Himalayas, and marble from Rajasthan! At sunset, the building subtly shifts in hue, offering a unique atmosphere...

2. Mehtab Bagh

Located on the opposite bank of the Taj Mahal, Mehtab Bagh is a collection of 11 gardens laid out in the 16th century. Nicknamed the "Garden of Moonlight", the site was abandoned and overgrown with sand and vegetation. However, following a restoration campaign in the 1990s, where pathways were redesigned and replanted, Mehtab Bagh regained all its former splendor!

Today, Mehtab Bagh is appreciated for its beautiful views of the Taj Mahal and its idyllic setting, enhanced by the sunset. It is also a relatively undiscovered site that offers a calm atmosphere, away from the ultra-popular areas.

3. Agra Fort

Built around 1565 under the reign of emperor Akbar, Agra's Red Fort served as the imperial residence and administrative center for Mughal sovereigns. Over the decades, the fort changed structure with parts destroyed and others added, giving it a very rich architecture from multiple eras.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the fort also offers panoramic views of the Yamuna and the Taj Mahal. Located a few kilometers from the famous structure, this vast red sandstone complex includes several courtyards, pavilions, mosques, and magnificent palaces, including:

• The Khas Mahal: a palace built in 1640 by emperor Shah Jahan for his daughters Roshanara and Jahanara. The interior of the palace is adorned with gold, murals, and floral decorations. Gold and blue, the two royal colors of the era, were extensively used to decorate the palace interior. Some details can still be glimpsed today.
• The Jahangir Mahal: this palace represents the largest part of Agra Fort. It is a complex blend of architecture, showcasing the alliance of Islamic and Hindu arts. Only 30 of the 500 structures on the site remain today, as most were destroyed by British invaders.

4. Kinari Bazaar market

Kinari Bazaar is a traditional market located just behind the Jama Masjid mosque, in the old town of Agra. Explore its charming narrow and lively alleys, lined with small shops and artisan galleries (textiles, jewelry, spices, fabric, etc.). Popular with foreign visitors, this market is also an authentic place where locals do their shopping.

5. The mausoleum of Itmad-ud-Daula

Often nicknamed Baby Taj, the tomb of Itimad-ud-Daula is one of Agra's most refined monuments. Built between 1622 and 1628 by Nur Jahan (to honor her father Mirza Ghiyas Beg), this construction marks an important step in the evolution of Mughal architecture.

It is indeed the first Indian mausoleum built entirely in white marble and set with semi-precious stones—which would inspire the design of the Taj Mahal more than 30 years later. The Baby Taj is thus recognized as an architectural precursor!

Its symmetrical plan, its square grid gardens (charbagh), and its red sandstone pavilions draw inspiration from both Persian art and imperial funeral practices. Located on the banks of the Yamuna River, the building is also renowned for its tranquility, away from the tourist hustle and bustle of the Taj Mahal.

6. The mausoleum of Chini ka Rauza

Located on the banks of the Yamuna River, the mausoleum of Chini Ka Rauza was erected in honor of Allama Afzal Khan Mullah—the Prime Minister during Shah Jahan's reign. Built in 1635, it is one of the first examples of Indo-Persian architecture in India. Like other Mughal tombs, it is oriented toward Mecca (due to its Islamic influences).

This monument is known for its glazed tiles imported from Central Asia and China (called Chini Mitti or Chinese clay). These rare ceramic ornaments, unusual for the era, originally covered all of the facades.

Left abandoned for too long (in favor of other sites such as the Taj Mahal or Agra Fort), the building suffered from the erosion of time and weather conditions. Fortunately, it is now undergoing a restoration program led by the Archaeological Survey of India, aimed at restoring its beauty and visibility...

7. The mausoleum of Akbar the Great

Located in Sikandra, about ten kilometers northwest of Agra city center, the mausoleum of Akbar the Great is a place of remembrance dedicated to one of the most influential emperors of the Mughal Empire.

Construction of the mausoleum began in 1605, at Akbar's initiative, and was completed in 1613 by his son Jahangir. The monument stands out for its monumental red sandstone gate, adorned with minarets and geometric and floral motifs.

Its architecture blends Islamic, Hindu, and Christian influences, reflecting Akbar the Great's pluralistic vision. Around the mausoleum, you will find a vast garden known for its abundant wildlife. Indeed, peacocks, monkeys, and deer roam freely!

8. The tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani

The tomb of Mariam-Uz-Zamani houses the body of Jodha Bai, the favorite wife of Mughal emperor Akbar—who gave birth to his successor Jahangir. Of Hindu faith but married to a Muslim Mughal emperor, she was buried according to Islamic customs, yet her body was also cremated according to the Hindu faith.

Originally from the Rajput kingdom of Amer (today Jaipur), Mariam-Uz-Zamani played an important role in consolidating the Mughal Empire by promoting unity between Hindus and Muslims.

Built in the early 17th century by her son Jahangir, her mausoleum is a subtle blend of Hindu and Islamic styles. Its structure, made of red sandstone and white marble, is adorned with sculptures and calligraphy.

The monument is distinguished by the absence of a true central dome, replaced by a flat roof supported by columns typical of Rajput architecture. The interior is quite sober, contrasting with other Mughal mausoleums, which are far more ornate.

The building is also surrounded by gardens, offering a serene setting away from tourist hustle and bustle. This monument reflects both the cultural heritage and the essential place of Mariam-Uz-Zamani in India's history.

9. Fatehpur Sikri (in the surroundings of Agra)

Fatehpur Sikri is an abandoned city, located approximately 50 minutes from Agra, in the state of Uttar Pradesh. It was built during the second half of the 16th century not far from the Vindhya mountains—the mountain range that geographically separates northern and southern India.

Designed by emperor Akbar, Fatehpur Sikri was nicknamed "the city of victory" after a military success and acquired the status of Capital of the Mughal Empire at the same time... Yet, the city was completely deserted in just a couple of decades, due to drought and enemy attacks (facilitated by proximity to the borders)!

This "ghost city", listed by UNESCO, now features very well-preserved architecture and includes numerous monuments, including:

• The Panch Mahal: a five-story structure, inspired by Buddhist temples, which once served as a place of entertainment.
• The Jama Masjid: built in 1648 by emperor Shah Jahan, this mosque was dedicated to his favorite daughter Jahanara Begum. It is among the largest mosques in India and was once connected to Agra Fort.

10. The city of Dholpur

1 hour 20 minutes by car south of Agra, discover Dholpur. This charming picturesque city is also home to many heritage treasures, including:

• Shergarh Fort: standing on the banks of the Chambal River since 1532, this fortress once served to protect against the kingdom of Mewar.
• The Machkund temple: considered an important place of worship, this building attracts both travelers seeking authenticity and Hindu devotees. One tip? Beware of wild monkeys!

What are the must-see cultural events in Agra?

1. Taj Mahotsav

Taj Mahotsav is a cultural festival held annually in February. Over about ten days, the event highlights traditional Indian arts, such as music, dance, and craftsmanship. On this occasion, artists from different regions perform in Agra with the beauty of the Taj Mahal in the background!

This festival is an opportunity to discover live performances, immerse yourself in local culture, and share moments with locals, while discovering culinary specialties (highlighted). Admission costs less than one euro per person and is free for children under 3 years old.

2. Independence Day

On August 15, Agra celebrates India's independence—just like the rest of the country. For this special date, the city organizes flag-raising ceremonies, parades, and cultural performances. On this occasion, the streets are adorned with national colors (saffron, white, and green).

3. Ram Barat

Ram Barat is a grand procession organized annually in Agra between September and October (according to the lunar calendar), a few days before Dussehra—a very popular Hindu festival in northern India. This parade depicts the marriage of Rama and Sita, two emblematic figures of the Hindu religion.

The procession features decorated floats, musicians, dancers, and scenes inspired by the Ramayana, a sacred text of Hinduism. Each edition takes place in a different neighborhood of the city.

How long does it take to visit Agra? (2 or 3 days)

To enjoy the city and its many monuments, two days on site are essential. If you want to take your time or venture beyond Agra to visit the ghost town of Fatehpur Sikri, plan for three days instead.

Here is an example itinerary, achievable in 2 days (if you stay in Agra) and 3 days if you want to venture out a bit.

Day 1 - Agra's hyper-center

• Watch the sunrise at the Taj Mahal (6:00 AM-8:00 AM),
• Jama Masjid mosque located near Agra train station (9:30 AM, quick to visit)
• Red Fort (10:30 AM-12:30 PM),
• Lunch break (1:00 PM-2:00 PM),
• Itimad-ud-Daula (2:30 PM-3:30 PM)—the visit lasts between 30 minutes and 1 hour depending on your pace.
• Enjoy the sunset at Mehtab Bagh garden, early evening

Day 2 - Venture beyond the city center

• The mausoleum of Akbar the Great, located 30 minutes drive north of the city (10:00 AM-12:00 PM)
• Lunch
• Tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani
• Return to Agra to stroll through Kinari Bazaar market

Day 3 - Discover Fatehpur Sikri

• Travel to the ghost town (approximately 1 hour drive and 40 km from Agra)
• Visit the former city of Fatehpur Sikri (which lasts between 3 and 4 hours).
• Return to Agra

Frequently asked questions

What attire should I wear to visit temples and religious buildings in India?

In India, most religious sites require respectful and modest clothing. Before entering a temple, women must cover their head, shoulders, and legs. Men should avoid wearing shorts. The ideal for everyone: lightweight pants, suited to the heat and visits to religious buildings. Also note that you must remove your shoes before entering a mosque.

What is the best time to visit Agra?

The best time to visit Agra is between October and March, due to favorable weather conditions and pleasant temperatures. While this is also the most touristy period, it allows you to avoid the intense heat of summer (April to June) as well as the rain and monsoon season (July to September).

Is Agra an expensive city?

Agra is an affordable city for travelers. You will find accommodations at various price levels, while food and transportation are also accessible. Visits to monuments and cultural sites remain reasonable—though entrance fees are often higher for tourists than for locals...

What is the entrance fee to the Taj Mahal?

Entrance to the Taj Mahal costs approximately €12 for foreign visitors. If you also wish to see the mausoleum, you will need to pay €2 additional per person.