Agra, often referred to as the City of Love, is one of the most famous destinations in India and a cornerstone of the Golden Triangle Tour (Delhi-Agra-Jaipur). Known for its splendid Mughal architecture, Agra is home to the world-famous Taj Mahal, along with other UNESCO World Heritage Sites and historic monuments that reflect the grandeur of the Mughal era.
For foreigners visiting Agra for the first time, understanding entry fees, timings, and what to expect at each monument can be overwhelming. This guide provides detailed and practical information about the must-visit monuments in Agra, their entry fees, and tips for a seamless experience for visit Uttar Pradesh.
Agra Monuments Historical Legacy
Agra served as the capital of the Mughal Empire during the reigns of emperors Akbar, Jahangir, and Shah Jahan. The city is a treasure trove of Mughal art, architecture, and culture. From the ethereal Taj Mahal to the imposing Agra Fort, and the abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikri, Agra showcases the ingenuity and artistry of the Mughals.
Agra’s monuments, built from red sandstone and white marble, are unparalleled in their beauty and craftsmanship, making the city an essential stop for history buffs, architecture lovers, and photographers alike.
Top Agra Monuments: Entry Fees and Visitor Information
Below is a comprehensive list of Agra’s must-visit monuments, their entry fees for foreign tourists, and highlights to help you plan your visit.
1. Taj Mahal
- Entry Fee:
- ₹50 (Indians)
- ₹1,300 (Foreigners)
- ₹740 (SAARC Nationals)
- Children below 15: Free
- Timings: Sunrise to Sunset (Closed on Fridays)
- Highlights:
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal.
- The iconic white marble mausoleum is renowned for its intricate inlay work, symmetrical gardens, and reflections in the Yamuna River.
- It is especially magical at sunrise and sunset, when the light enhances the beauty of the marble.
Bonus Tips:
- Night Viewing: The Taj Mahal offers moonlight viewing on five nights each month (the night of the full moon and two nights before and after). Tickets for night viewing cost ₹750 for foreigners and need to be booked in advance.
- Avoid Fridays as the monument is closed for weekly prayers at the adjoining mosque.
Check out the Agra Package: 2 Nights 3 Days Delhi Agra Tour Package
2. Agra Fort
- Entry Fee:
- ₹50 (Indians)
- ₹650 (Foreigners)
- ₹300 (SAARC Nationals)
- Children below 15: Free
- Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
- Highlights:
- Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Agra Fort served as the main residence of Mughal emperors before the capital moved to Delhi.
- This massive red sandstone fortress is home to palaces, courtyards, and mosques, including Jahangiri Mahal, Diwan-i-Am, and Diwan-i-Khas.
- From the ramparts, you can catch a glimpse of the Taj Mahal in the distance.
Bonus Tips:
- Hire a local guide to learn about the history and architecture of the fort.
- Visit during early mornings or late afternoons to avoid crowds and heat.
Check out the Uttar Pradesh Packages:
- 3 Nights 4 Days Varanasi Tour Package
- 5 Days Ayodhya, Lucknow Tour Package
- 5 Days Ayodhya, Prayagraj, Varanasi Trip Package
3. Fatehpur Sikri- Agra Monuments
- Entry Fee:
- ₹50 (Indians)
- ₹610 (Foreigners)
- ₹310 (SAARC Nationals)
- Children below 15: Free
- Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
- Highlights:
- This UNESCO-listed abandoned city was the capital of the Mughal Empire during Akbar’s reign. It was deserted after just 15 years due to water scarcity.
- The city’s architectural gems include Buland Darwaza (the largest gateway in the world), Jama Masjid, and the Tomb of Salim Chishti.
Bonus Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the vast complex involves a lot of walking.
- Combine your visit to Fatehpur Sikri with Agra Fort for a day trip.
Suggested more Packages for Uttar Pradesh
- 8 Days Uttar Pradesh with Bihar Tour Package
- 11 Days Uttar Pradesh Tour Package
- 7 Days Uttar Pradesh Tour Package
4. Mehtab Bagh- Agra Monuments
- Entry Fee:
- ₹15 (Indians)
- ₹300 (Foreigners)
- ₹150 (SAARC Nationals)
- Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
- Highlights:
- A riverside garden located across the Yamuna River, Mehtab Bagh offers a perfect view of the Taj Mahal at sunset.
- This serene garden is part of the Charbagh (four gardens) style and was originally designed to align perfectly with the Taj Mahal.
Bonus Tips:
- Visit in the evening for breathtaking sunset views and photo opportunities.
- A tripod is recommended if you plan to take long-exposure shots of the Taj Mahal.
5. Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb (Baby Taj)
- Entry Fee:
- ₹25 (Indians)
- ₹310 (Foreigners)
- ₹150 (SAARC Nationals)
- Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
- Highlights:
- Often referred to as the Baby Taj, this exquisite tomb was commissioned by Nur Jahan, the wife of Emperor Jahangir, for her father.
- The tomb’s intricate marble lattice screens and inlay work are considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal’s design.
Bonus Tips:
- Visit this monument before seeing the Taj Mahal to appreciate its significance as an architectural inspiration.
6. Akbar’s Tomb (Sikandra)
- Entry Fee:
- ₹25 (Indians)
- ₹310 (Foreigners)
- ₹150 (SAARC Nationals)
- Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
- Highlights:
- Located in Sikandra, just outside Agra, this grand tomb is the final resting place of Emperor Akbar.
- The tomb features intricate carvings, a blend of Islamic and Hindu architectural styles, and tranquil gardens.
Bonus Tips:
- Visit during the early morning hours for a peaceful experience and fewer crowds.
7. Jama Masjid -Agra Monuments
- Entry Fee: Free for all
- Timings: Open throughout the day
- Highlights:
- Built by Shah Jahan in honor of his daughter Jahanara Begum, Jama Masjid is a beautiful mosque with red sandstone and marble architecture.
Bonus Tips:
- Respect the cultural and religious significance of the mosque by dressing modestly and removing your shoes before entering.
Popular Activities to Try in Agra
Beyond visiting its historic monuments, Agra offers several experiences that allow you to immerse yourself in its culture and traditions:
1. Moonlight Viewing of the Taj Mahal
- Cost: ₹750 per person (Foreigners)
- Timing: Available on five nights each month (full moon night and two nights before and after).
- Highlights: Witnessing the Taj Mahal under the moonlight is a surreal experience.
2. Street Food Tour
- Cost: ₹1,000–₹1,500 per person
- Highlights: Savor Agra’s famous petha (a sweet made of ash gourd), chaat, and Mughlai dishes like biryani and kebabs.
3. Shopping in Agra’s Bazaars
- Cost: Depends on purchases
- Highlights:
- Visit Sadar Bazaar for leather goods, marble souvenirs, and carpets.
- Explore Kinari Bazaar for jewelry and textiles.
4. Sunset View of the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh
- Cost: ₹300 per person (Foreigners)
- Highlights: Capture stunning photos of the Taj Mahal as the sun sets behind it.
5. Mughal Heritage Walk
- Cost: ₹1,000–₹2,000 per person
- Highlights: Take a guided tour of Kachhpura Village, located near the Taj Mahal, and interact with locals while learning about Mughal history and rural life.
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Travel Tips for Foreign Visitors
- Plan for Crowds: The Taj Mahal can get very crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. Arrive early in the morning for a quieter experience.
- Avoid Scams: Be wary of touts offering “fast-track entry” to the Taj Mahal or overpriced guides. Always use official ticket counters or online bookings.
- Carry Cash: Many small vendors and guides only accept cash. ATMs are available near major monuments.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear lightweight clothing and comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking a lot.
- Hire a Licensed Guide: For an enhanced experience, hire licensed guides at Agra Fort and the Taj Mahal.
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Estimated Costs for Visiting Agra Monuments and Activities
| Attraction/Activity | Foreigners (₹) |
|---|---|
| Taj Mahal | 1,300 |
| Agra Fort | 650 |
| Fatehpur Sikri | 610 |
| Mehtab Bagh | 300 |
| Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb (Baby Taj) | 310 |
| Akbar’s Tomb (Sikandra) | 310 |
| Moonlight Viewing (Taj Mahal) | 750 |
| Street Food Tour | 1,500 |
| Mughal Heritage Walk | 1,500 |
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Conclusion
Agra’s timeless beauty lies not only in its monuments but also in the stories they tell of love, power, and artistic brilliance. From the majestic Taj Mahal to the lesser-known yet equally stunning Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, every corner of Agra holds a piece of India’s rich history.
Plan your visit carefully, take your time exploring each site, and don’t forget to indulge in the city’s vibrant food and shopping scenes. Agra promises an experience that will stay with you long after your journey ends!
