Agra Travel Guide – Introduction
If there is one place in India that every traveler ends up going to, it has to be Agra.

Agra Travel Guide

For some, it is the highlight of a long-awaited trip to India. For others, it’s with more reluctance or the version that I really can’t leave India without seeing that kind of Taj sentiment.

My own story with Agra was fairly simple. Having seen the main tourist attractions of Agra on my early trips to India – and witnessed a fair amount of over-tourism and hassle, I wasn’t really in any rush to return. It is not for nothing that Agra has a bad reputation among tourists in India due to the amount of swearing and scams that prevail here. Agra Travel Guide

That was until I came across Ekaa Villa in Agra and their work to show visitors a different side of Agra – one that is less crowded, less focused on the Taj Mahal, and more focused on culture and community-based tourism. It’s reason enough to see how Agra has changed over the years due to the pandemic and see if my opinion of Agra will improve in a few years (spoiler – yes)!

In this Agra travel blog, I will be covering places to visit, my top travel tips for visiting Agra, tips for female travelers, and much more – read on for what you need to know when planning your trip to Agra!

Agra Tour: Exploring the Best of India’s Historic City

Introduction:- A. Overview of Agra B. Why visit Agra

Must-See Monuments:- A. Taj Mahal B. Agra Fort C. Fatehpur Sikri D. Itmad-ud-Daula

Unique Experiences:- A. Mughal Heritage Walk B. Overnight Taj Mahal Viewing C. Hot Air Balloon Rides D. Mehtab Bagh

Delicious Street Food:- A. Popular Dishes B. Best places to try

Shopping in Agra:- A. Local Bazaars B. Handicrafts and Textiles C. Leather Goods and Spices

Overview of Agra

Agra is a city located in northern India and is one of the most important tourist destinations in the country. It is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical monuments, with the Taj Mahal being the most famous of them all. The city has a rich history, with its roots dating back to the 16th century during the Mughal era.

Why visit Agra

Agra offers a unique blend of history, culture, and architecture that makes it a must-visit destination for any traveler. From the stunning Taj Mahal to the well-preserved Mughal monuments, the city has a lot to offer. Visitors can experience the rich culture of India through its street food, local bazaars, and traditional handicrafts. The city also offers unique experiences such as hot air balloon rides, overnight Taj Mahal viewing, and guided tours of the city’s monuments. With so much to see and do, Agra is a perfect destination for those seeking a mix of history and culture.

Must-See Monuments

• Taj Mahal – a world-famous mausoleum built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife.
• Agra Fort – historic fort built by Mughal Emperor Akbar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Fatehpur Sikri – well-preserved 16th-century Mughal city and former capital of the Mughal Empire.
• Itmad-ud-Daula – stunning mausoleum known as the “Baby Taj” for its intricate carvings and marble work.

Unique Experiences

• Mughal Heritage Walk – a guided tour through the city to learn about Mughal heritage and history.
• Overnight Taj Mahal Viewing – exclusive opportunity to witness the Taj Mahal at night, lit up by moonlight.
• Hot Air Balloon Rides – experience a bird’s-eye view of Agra and its monuments from a hot air balloon.
• Mehtab Bagh – peaceful garden with views of the Taj Mahal, perfect for picnics and sunset views.