WHAT TO DO IN AGRA, INDIA.

Agra is one of the most visited cities in India. You will find Agra in northern India, Uttar Pradesh state. People come from all over the world to Agra for one reason; this town is famous because it is home to the iconic Taj Mahal.

(1) Taj Mahal is a must visit.

The Mughal king Shah Jahan built this magnificent monument for this wife who died in childbirth in 1631. The beauty of the Taj Mahal cannot be described in words; it can only be seen and felt. The maculate ivory white marble, the open gardens, the water fountains are just magical. It has been my childhood dream to visit Taj Mahal. All I can say, everything I imagined as a child about my visit to Taj Mahal came true. Been an old-school romantic I was in awe of the story of why Taj Mahal was built, after my visit, I now am mesmerized by everything Taj represents and the elegance of the architecture explains why this is one of the seven wonders of the world.

Allow yourself 3 hours at least to enjoy your visit. Expect for big crowds when you are at Taj Mahal, patience is essential.

(2) Tomb of I’timād-Ud-Daulah

Tomb of I’timad-Ud-Daulah is a Mughal style white marble building; it is also referred as Baby Taj or Jewel Box.

(3) Jama Mosque, Agra

Built from 1648 in the Mughal style, opposite the Agra Fort and overlooking the Agra Fort Railway Station. It is one of the largest mosques in India.

(4) The Markets

Shopping for local art and craft is one of the most enjoyable parts of traveling. Remember to make an offer on the price, as there is always a room for negotiating.

(6) Agra Fort

Agra Fort was the primary residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty till 1638, and then the capital was moved from Agra. UNESCO World Heritage site. Allow yourself at least 3 hours to enjoy your visit.

Tips and Advice

A little note to make your visit even more enjoyable is do not pay for a guide outside the Taj Mahal (you do not need a tour guide), people are trying to sell everything and anything be prepared for that, avoid visiting in the weekend and public holidays. Pickpocketing is a big problem so keep an eye on all your belonging.

First-time travelers should be careful about eating and drinking. Bottled water, such as Bisleri or Aquafina is readily available in all hotels and shops and is the safest form of drinkable water. The food can be too spicy, especially for foreigners, so the best bet is to try eating where they can change food for your taste, such as in hotel restaurants. Alcohol is readily available all over the city, but be advised to purchase it from licensed shops rather than individual bootleggers. The best months to travel to Agra are winter (November–March), and Monsoon (August–November). Do not travel to India without Travel Insurance.