I am sure almost everyone must have ‘Agra’ on their bucket list of travel. The city has its own charm not only for its rich historical background but also for the mouthwatering local breakfast and cuisines.
So, even if you’ve traveled to Agra earlier the city will still continue to surprise you with its ever- growing developments and rich heritage. Especially post-pandemic, most people wanted to step out to a nearby getaway for leisure, relaxation, or visiting their loved ones. Here’s a list to plan your next weekend’s escape in a more organized way.
The best time to visit Agra is from Jan-Mar and Aug-Dec. If you still visit Agra between Apr-Jun then do visit historical places early in the morning to beat the heat and savor fresh, delicious local breakfast. Famous bedai, aloo sabzi, and jalebi with dahi.
A mix of modern and traditional
Agra has urbanized even more in 5 years and thanks to its authorities for its continued innovation and development. While you’ve historical places to explore, make sure to enjoy the #Cityvibes with some newly opened restaurants and clubs.
Historical Hub1. Taj Mahal: anyone visiting Agra as a tourist would like to witness the grand mausoleum architecture. The construction started in 1632 AD and was completed in 1648 AD. It took hundreds of laborers and years to build this wonder of the world!Timings & Entry ticket - Taj Mahal has 3 gates through which one can enter the mausoleum.
Timings: open one hour before Sunrise up to 45 Minutes before Sunset. Kindly check the opening timings from the concierge if you plan to visit early morning.Entrance - Taj Mahal Western/Eastern: Tickets are available at Western Gate near Saheli Burj. Taj Mahal Southern Gate:- Only exit is allowed, not allowed to enter.Important note : Always carry your photo ID proof as it is mandatory to book the tickets. (for security purposes).An online ticket can also be bought from these sites: asi.payumoney.com & www.asiagracircle.in which is easy and hassle-free in this digital age.Ticket fees: Indian citizen: Entry to Taj Mahal: Rs. 45 + Rs. 200 entry to Mausoleum.
Foreigner: Entry to Taj Mahal: Rs. 1050 + Rs. 200 entry to Mausoleum.2. Agra Fort: Barely 10-15 minutes (3.5 kms) distance from Taj Mahal is Agra Fort. Which is a must-visit if you’ve been to the Taj Mahal. You’ll be able to witness and relive the historical moment where Aurenzeb kidnapped his father and put him in Agra Fort from where Taj Mahal was visible. This place will let you unleash the artist and you’ll click and get snapped from different angels with the Taj Mahal in the backdrop. Isn’t sound great?3. Fatehpur Sikri: If you are in Agra then visiting Fatehpur Sikri is a must place to be visited. It is approx. 1-hour drive from Taj Mahal, Agra (44 km), and would take 3-4 hours to witness the grand architecture of this place.The famous Buland-darwaza is also here in Fatehpur Sikri.
Foodie Mind: If you have thrust for some good local food then Agra will fulfill your taste desires. Make time to visit these local food streets and restaurants:
1. Sadar Bazar: Chaat gaali. Famous not only for chaat, aloo Tikki but also for pizzas, kinds of pasta and, kulfi- faluda. Another famous shop in the street.2. Sheroes Hangout café: Just like Hero this café is called Sheroes to signify that females are the hero. Specially dedicated and run by acid-attack victims the simplicity, and generosity with which people serve is what you must visit this place. I loved being here and enjoyed speaking to one of the acid-attack victims, totally touching and reflecting on the preciousness of life.3. Molecule Club or Salt cafe: Gone are the days when Agra was considered totally traditionally. You’ll be happily surprised by the beautiful ambiance, cool breeze, and delectable cuisines. Both cafes are equally good and must visit.4. Petha: Don’t forget to grab a different variety of pethas from authentic shops. Panchi petha has store in Sadar Bazar, Hariparwat crossing.Best time to visitThe best time to visit is early in the morning in summers and mornings before 10:30 AM in winters. This will help you to avoid the rush and extreme hot/cold weather as well.Accommodation - Ease of StayAgra is a hub for grand hospitality. The hotel ranges are from thousands of rupees per day to even hundreds depending on your budget. Due to tourism, there are a bunch of hotels that have come up near to Taj Mahal making it feasible for everyone to stay nearby and explore many other places besides Taj Mahal.Recommendation - Plan to book a hotel at least one month prior to get a good deal at a lesser price, else as the time for vacation gets near mostly good properties are sold out or the prices shoot up!
Properties like: The Taj, ITC hotel (The Sheraton), Marriott group of hotels, and Hilton group will give you a memorable stay with modern amenities and great choices of food. This would range from 5000-15,000+ rupees depending on tourist season and how much prior you’ve booked.
Ofcourse being a city where hospitality flows, there are umpteen of mid range hotels that provide comfortable and affordable stays.
Zostel: the new place to stay. There are numerous zostels that have now opened in the vicinity. However, it’s more for a person who can accommodate and would like to mingle with travelers from other regions. Price ranges from 400-1500 Rupees.
How to reach AgraAirways There is an airport in Agra however, the flights are not operational.Railways One of the best ways to travel to Agra from Delhi is by railways. It would take 1 hour 30 mins to 3-hours to reach Agra depending on the train you’re you’ve booked.Below are recommendations of super-fast trains that will help you reach within 3 hours from Delhi: Train Number Train Name12050 Gaatiman Express12954 AK TEJAS RAJ EX 12002 Bhopal ShatabdiHope you plan your trip to Agra soon and in case you’ve already been there, then don’t forget to visit the places mentioned to explore a different kind of city.
