Places to Visit in Taj Nagari – Agra

Agra, nestled in the state of Uttar Pradesh, happens to be one of the most coveted holiday destinations in India. Millions of tourists, not just from other parts of the country, but from different regions of the world, throng this city every year to marvel at its intriguing heritage. What first thing that draws these large crowds from near and far is, of course, the white marble mausoleum sitting pretty on the south bank of the Yamuna River – Taj Mahal.

However, the stunning Taj isn’t the only attraction keeping tourists hooked during their Agra tour. This erstwhile capital of the Mughals is speckled with numerous other monuments that narrate the tale of its royal past. Moreover, it also boasts a rich culture, which can be witnessed in the local shopping and dining scene. Keep reading to know why you should be checking out flight booking deals to the city and learn about other things that will help you plan your vacay!

What to See

There is a long list of points of interest that one can explore in the Taj Nagari. Here are some of the most sought-after local points of interest.

Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal is and has for centuries been, the prime attraction of Agra. This splendid monument, commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the year 1632, is a mausoleum housing the tomb of the ruler’s wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The construction of the structure took over 20 years to complete with 20,000 artisans working day and night to bring it to life. A glimpse of the white wonder is sure to evoke an “awe” from you.

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Agra Fort

Adjacent to Taj Mahal is another magnificent monument which finds a place on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This 16th-century fortress is one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture. Originally built as a military structure, it was later transformed into the royal residence with several opulent palaces worthy of a king built within.

Fatehpur Sikri

Touted as the ‘City of Victory,’ Fatehpur Sikri is a fortified city located at a distance of around 37 km from the centre of Agra. It traces its origin to the latter half of the 16th century, when Akbar, the third Mughal Emperor, began its construction. Although the city is home to a host of incredible structures, it was abandoned shortly after Akbar’s death due to the shortage of water.

Itmad-ud-daula’s Tomb

Before there was Taj, there was Itmad-ud-daula’s Tomb, another gorgeous white marble monument gracing the landscape of Agra. It’s resemblance to Taj has also earned it the moniker ‘Baby Taj’. While the interiors of the monument are adorned with intricate design, the exteriors are also sure to bind you in their spell.

Where to Stay

There are abundant accommodation options in Agra. From luxurious hotels and resorts to budget motels, there is a gamut of options for you to enjoy a delightful stay at. Tourists looking for a lavish stay can pick ITC Mughal, The Oberoi Amarvilas, Courtyard by Marriott, Jaypee Palace Hotel & Convention Centre or Ramada Plaza. The map of Agra is also marked with budget properties that are perfect for people travelling on a budget. Make your hotel bookings online in advance to save money on accommodation.

Best Time to Visit

Summers in Agra can be hot and humid, making it a bit uncomfortable to explore the city. Thus, the months between October and March, when the weather is pleasant to explore the myriad local points of interest.

How to Reach

While Agra is well connected to almost all major regional cities such as New Delhi, Jaipur, Kanpur and Lucknow by road, you can also book cheap air tickets to Agra Civil Enclave which serves the city. You can easily find a non-stop or connecting flight to the airport no matter where you are in the country.