The Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Agra, is a white marble mausoleum built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Renowned as a symbol of love, it's an architectural marvel and one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
How to Reach: Easily accessible by rickshaw or taxi from Agra Cantt railway station.
Timings: Open sunrise to sunset, except Fridays. Special night viewings on full moon days (with exceptions).
Entry Fees:
Indians: INR 50 (+ INR 200 for main mausoleum)
SAARC/BIMSTEC: INR 540
Other foreigners: INR 1300
Children under 15: Free.
Fatehpur Sikri, near Agra, was the short-lived capital of the Mughal Empire under Emperor Akbar. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a beautiful blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles, celebrating Akbar's vision of syncretism and religious tolerance.
How to Reach: Fatehpur Sikri is about 40 km from Agra. Regular buses and taxis are available from Agra to reach the site.
Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
Entry Fees:Indians: INR 40
SAARC/BIMSTEC: INR 40
Other foreigners: INR 550
Children below 15: Free.
Agra Fort is a monumental fortification located in Agra and stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Mughal Empire. Built predominantly of red sandstone, the fort contains several palaces, audience halls, and two mosques. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers not just a deep dive into history, but also panoramic views of its more famous neighbor, the Taj Mahal.
How to Reach: Agra Fort is located in the heart of Agra city, just about 2.5 km from the Taj Mahal. It's easily accessible by auto-rickshaw, cycle-rickshaw, or taxis from any part of Agra.
Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. Closed on Mondays.
Entry Fees: Indians: INR 40
SAARC/BIMSTEC: INR 40
Other foreigners: INR 550
Children below 15: Free.
Jama Masjid in Agra, also known as the "Friday Mosque," stands as one of the city's most significant architectural marvels. Commissioned by Shah Jahan's daughter, Jahanara Begum, in 1648, this majestic mosque is built of red sandstone with intricate white marble designs, symbolizing the splendor and brilliance of Mughal architecture.
How to Reach: About 1 km from Agra Fort; use local transport like auto-rickshaws.
Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily (may close during prayer times).
Akbar's Tomb is a mausoleum which house the mortal remains of the great emperor Akbar. It is an important Mughal architectural masterpiece, built in 1605-1613. It is situated in Sikandra, the outskirts of the city and is spread over 119 acres. According to Tartary tradition, which stated to start the construction of one's tomb during one's lifetime only, Akbar himself commenced the construction of this historical place in Agra.
How to Reach: Approximately 13 km from the main Agra city; easily accessible by taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses.
Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
Entry Fees: INR 30 for Indians; INR 310 for foreigners.
Also referred to as the 'Baby Taj', Itimad-ud-daula's Tomb is a stunning example of Mughal architecture. Made of white marble with intricate lattice work and semi-precious stone inlays, the mausoleum is often considered as a precursor to the Taj Mahal.
How to Reach: Located about 4 km from Agra city center, it's easily reachable by taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses.
Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
Entry Fees: INR 30 for Indians; INR 310 for foreigners.
Historical places in Agra are plenty in number steeped in the past of India. Relive India's rich heritage through visiting the monuments of Agra.