Explore the rich history and cultural heritage of Agra with our Agra local sightseeing tour packages. It is a vibrant city that offers a comprehensive and enriching tourism experience to travelers from different parts of the world.
Be it the age-old monuments that take you back in time or the mesmerizing architecture that inspires architect lovers to head to this place time and again or the natural beauty that allows you to relax and unwind amidst the peaceful surroundings or the excellent culinary delights that cater to all taste buds, Agra offers a wholesome experience in all senses.
In Agra, you’ll find numerous sightseeing places that keep domestic as well as international travelers occupied all day long. While it’s not feasible to visit all in one go, there are a few that certainly deserve your attention, whether you’re here for a short or long duration. These are as follows:
1. Taj Mahal
Admired as one of the most beautiful and iconic buildings in the world, the Taj Mahal is a stunning mausoleum that stands as a testament to the beauty and sophistication of Mughal architecture.
It was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died giving birth to their 14th child in 1631. Construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1632 and was completed in 1653. It is said to have taken more than 20,000 workers and artisans to complete the project.
One of the most striking features of the Taj Mahal is the intricate inlaid work on the marble surface. The designs are made up of precious stones such as lapis lazuli, jasper, and jade, which are set into the marble using a technique called pietra dura.
It is also known for its beautiful gardens, which surround the main building on three sides. The gardens are divided into four sections by water channels and are designed to symbolize the paradise described in the Quran.
2. Agra Fort
Visit the Agra Fort to learn about the history of the Mughal dynasty and its impact on Indian culture and society. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as the main residence of the Mughal dynasty until the capital was shifted to Delhi.
Sprawling over 94 acres of area, the Agra Fort or the Red Fort of Agra is constructed from red sandstone. It is surrounded by a moat and features several impressive gates including the Delhi Gate and the Amar Singh Gate.
The interior of the fort is divided into several buildings, courtyards, and gardens, each with its own unique features and historical significance. Some of the most notable structures within the fort include the Jahangir Mahal which was built by Akbar's son Jahangir as a palace for his wives and concubines, and the Diwan-i-Am or the Hall of Public Audience where the emperor would receive visitors and listen to their grievances.
Another important feature of the Agra Fort is the Musamman Burj, a tower located within the fort that was used as a private residence by Shah Jahan. It is said that Shah Jahan was imprisoned in the tower by his own son Aurangzeb, and it was from here that he would gaze out at the Taj Mahal from a distance.
3. Mehtab Bagh
Situated on the banks of the Yamuna River in Agra is the Mehtab Bagh which serves as a popular tourist attraction in Agra and a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It is a great place to visit for nature admirers and can also be explored by photographers looking to capture some mesmerizing pictures.
The garden was originally built by Emperor Babur, the founder of the Mughal dynasty, in the early 16th century. It was later restored by Emperor Shah Jahan, who was known for his love of gardens and landscaping.
The Mehtab Bagh was designed to complement the beauty of the Taj Mahal and provide a serene and peaceful space for the emperor and his family to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Here you can spot a variety of plants, trees, and flowers along with enjoying the several pavilions and fountains, which add to the beauty and tranquility of the space. In addition to all this, visitors get a chance to look over the mesmerizing sunset over the Taj Mahal and witness the monument's reflection in the Yamuna River.
4. Mughal Gardens
Ideal for strolls, picnics, and moments of reflection, the Mughal Gardens is a testament to the rich architectural and horticultural heritage of the Mughal Empire in India. These gardens are known for their meticulous planning, symmetrical layout, and exquisite detailing, and have been divided into several sections, each with its distinct features and purpose.
As you enter the gardens, you are greeted by well-manicured lawns and pathways that lead to a central water channel, known as the 'Nahr-i-Bihisht' or 'Stream of Paradise.' This water channel runs through the length of the gardens. Lined with fountains and water features, the channel provides a soothing atmosphere and adds to the overall beauty of the gardens.
The Mughal Gardens in Agra are adorned with a wide variety of plants, flowers, and trees. You can find vibrant roses, fragrant jasmine, colorful marigolds, and other blooming flowers that fill the air with their sweet scents. The gardens also house several fruit trees, such as mango, guava, and citrus, which were not only ornamental but also provided fresh produce for the royal family.
Taking some time out for the Mughal Gardens allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity that once captivated the Mughal emperors. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking tranquility, the Mughal Gardens is a must-visit destination on your Agra local sightseeing tour package.
Shopping
Shopping in Agra is a delightful experience that combines rich cultural heritage with a diverse range of handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry. It offers an array of shopping options for visitors to explore and indulge in.
One of the most famous shopping areas in Agra is the bustling market near the Taj Mahal known as Sadar Bazaar. This vibrant marketplace is a treasure trove of local handicrafts, marble artifacts, leather goods, jewelry, textiles, and souvenirs. Here, you can find beautifully crafted marble replicas of the Taj Mahal, intricately designed inlaid marble work known as Pietra Dura, and a variety of handcrafted items that showcase the city's artistic heritage.
Another popular shopping destination in Agra is Kinari Bazaar. Located in the heart of the city, this market is renowned for its colorful textiles, embroidered fabrics, saris, and traditional garments. It's an ideal place to immerse yourself in the world of Indian textiles, with a wide range of fabrics such as silk, cotton, and chiffon, adorned with intricate embroidery, mirror work, and zari (metallic thread) embellishments.
Agra is also famous for its leather goods, particularly leather shoes, and accessories. You can find high-quality leather products, including shoes, bags, belts, and wallets, at various shops in the city. The leather goods are often crafted with precision and finesse, reflecting the traditional craftsmanship of the region.
When shopping in Agra, it's important to remember that bargaining is a common practice in most markets. Engage in friendly negotiations with the shopkeepers to get the best prices, but also be respectful of the artisans and their craft.
To enjoy your Agra tour to the fullest, we recommend you book a Agra local sightseeing tour package with us. We at Agra Tourism, a division of Holidays DNA, are here to make traveling easy and hassle-free for you. Our agenda is to deliver you the best holiday experience and we leave no stone unturned to accomplish this.
Personalization is our key. Based on your prerequisites, we come up with an Agra tour package that suits your budget the most. In case you're interested in learning more about us, please fill out the Contact Us form.
How to Reach Agra?
To be there in Agra, you can choose from the following modes of transportation to reach your desired destination in your utmost comfort. These are as follows:
By Air: Indira Gandhi International Airport is the nearest airport that receives frequent flights from major cities within India as well as outside countries. Outside the airport, you’ll find several options to enjoy traveling within the city.
By Train: Another convenient way is via train. You can catch a direct train from Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Gwalior, Jaipur, Kolkata, etc., to Agra to enjoy a smooth railway journey at reasonable prices. For your ease, the facility of trains like the Punjab Mail, Bhopal Express, UP Sampark Kranti, and Malwa Express is available on an everyday basis.
By Road: Lastly, Agra is also well-connected through many state and roadways buses to the other urban regions of the country. Depending on your base location, you can board a bus that takes you directly to Agra Bus Stand. Alternatively, self-drive your vehicle to Kanpur. After reaching Agra, one can also hire a taxi from top car rental companies in Agra to travel to your desired location.
