Agra, India – an enchanting city that captivates the hearts of travelers from around the world. While experienced globetrotters may initially hesitate to declare a single destination as the highlight of their journey, after immersing themselves in the rich history of Agra, indulging in local delicacies, and experiencing the warmth of the city, visitors inevitably proclaim that this historic gem is the pinnacle of any Indian adventure.
Why Agra?
Undoubtedly, the crown jewel of Agra is the mesmerizing Taj Mahal. This architectural marvel, a testament to eternal love, lives up to its immense hype, leaving millions of visitors awestruck each year. However, Agra has more to offer than just the Taj Mahal.
Other prominent attractions in the area include Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, and Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb. These magnificent sites, alongside the Taj Mahal, narrate the tales of the Mughal emperors who once called Agra their home and capital. Their grandeur and legacy continue to draw tourists to the city, offering a journey through time to an era of regal emperors, resplendent marble palaces, and gleaming jewels. Exploring these sites is akin to stepping into the shoes of royalty.
When to Visit Agra
For the best experience, plan your visit to Agra between November and March, which is considered the ideal time to explore northern India. During these months, the weather is pleasant, allowing you to leisurely wander through the various attractions while dressed comfortably in light pants or skirts.
Although the allure of summer may tempt some travelers, the sweltering heat combined with the heavy influx of tourists can make it a challenging season to enjoy Agra’s sites. Towards the end of November, the temperature begins to cool, requiring only a light jacket to stay comfortably warm throughout the day. The favorable weather persists until early spring, before the rising temperatures herald the approach of summer. However, due to the peak tourism season, those seeking the best deals on airfare should consider visiting in early November or late March.
Where to Stay in Agra
Agra boasts a diverse range of accommodations to cater to every traveler’s needs, with the neighborhoods surrounding the Taj Mahal serving as an excellent starting point. These areas offer a convenient proximity to Agra’s most famous landmark, with some hotels located within walking distance. For those seeking an immersive cultural experience, backpacker hostels run by hospitable families provide cozy rooms suitable for a one-night stay.
If you are visiting during summer, it is advisable to research hostels that offer air conditioning, as the season can be challenging without it. Mid-range hotels catering to families provide amenities comparable to those found in Western countries, including Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, sanitary housekeeping, pools, and complimentary breakfast. Additionally, for those desiring a luxurious experience akin to residing in a palace, Agra offers prestigious hotels that epitomize opulence. At these extravagant establishments, guests may find it difficult to leave the premises, except for venturing out to the top attractions.
Where and What to Eat in Agra
One of the greatest joys of traveling to India lies in savoring its authentic cuisine, and Agra, in particular, boasts a rich tradition of Mughlai delicacies.
For an exceptional culinary experience, indulge in Mughlai dishes comprising an array of curries, rice, and flatbreads. The butter chicken, a mouthwatering delight, is an absolute must-try.
However, if you are unaccustomed to spicy food, exercise caution and avoid dishes marked as spicier than mild. Servers are well aware of foreigners’ sensitivity to heat and are helpful in identifying milder options. While a few international dining options and pubs can be found, they are relatively scarce compared to other parts of the world. Embracing the local cuisine during your stay is not only the most affordable option but also the most rewarding in terms of taste.
Getting Around Agra
As one of India’s premier tourist destinations, Agra offers an array of transportation options to navigate its bustling streets.
If your stay primarily revolves around the Taj Mahal, walking to and from the monument may suffice. However, Agra is not an ideal city for pedestrian exploration.
The most convenient and budget-friendly modes of transportation are rickshaws and tuk-tuks. Rickshaws, carts attached to bicycles and pedaled by a single person, accommodate up to two riders. While suitable for short rides between sites where cars are impractical, groups larger than two may require multiple rickshaws. Rickshaw fares should not exceed INR 70, and if the price exceeds that, consider opting for a tuk-tuk or an alternative means of transportation.
Tuk-tuks, motorized carriages attached to motorcycles, comfortably accommodate four to five people, making them an excellent choice for families. Fares for tuk-tuks can vary but typically start at INR 70. Remember to agree upon the fare with the driver before embarking on the journey, whether using a rickshaw or a tuk-tuk.
Taxis are another option, with fares starting around INR 200 and potentially reaching higher amounts, depending on the distance. However, if you anticipate requiring a car for extensive travel within the city, consider renting a car along with a driver for the duration of your trip.
Getting to and from Agra
By Train
If you plan to visit the historic city of Agra, most international travelers choose to fly into Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport and proceed either by car or train.
The train journey between Delhi and Agra typically takes a couple of hours and offers two departure points: the New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS), located near Paharganj, and the Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station (NZM) in southern Delhi. Trains from Delhi arrive at Agra’s primary railway station, Agra Cantonment (AGC).
Trains to Agra fall into three categories, each offering similar amenities but differing in terms of speed. The fastest train, the 12050 Gatimaan Express, completes the journey from Delhi to Agra in approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, with coach tickets priced around INR 755. The 12002 New Delhi Bhopal Shatabdi Express, the next fastest option, reaches Agra in just under two hours, albeit known for occasional delays. Coach seats for this train are priced at around INR 555. The third popular choice is the 12280 Taj Express Superfast, which takes over two and a half hours to reach Agra but offers the most economical ticket at INR 370. During winter months, train schedules may be affected by fog, resulting in delays.
By Car
For travelers seeking a more private mode of transportation, renting a car along with a driver is a viable option. Numerous travel companies in the area cater to tourists’ needs, offering assistance in visiting all desired sites. Since driving in India can be overwhelming for foreigners, it is advisable to hire a driver along with the car. You can arrange for the driver to pick you up in Delhi and accompany you to Agra, ensuring a stress-free journey. Furthermore, many companies offer packages for exploring the entire Golden Triangle, a highly recommended endeavor to immerse oneself fully in this beautiful and culturally rich country.
Is Agra a safe place to visit?
Is Agra Safe to VisitNavigating Agra requires some caution, as traveling to India is not without its challenges. It is essential to remain vigilant due to the presence of pickpockets in crowded areas. To safeguard your belongings, consider using anti-theft bags.
When it comes to food, exercise caution to avoid any health issues. Refrain from consuming uncooked or improperly washed food. Tap water should be avoided, and it is best to consume only sealed bottled water from reputable establishments.
While exploring the streets of Agra, exercise caution when crossing roads, as traffic can be chaotic. Stay alert and adhere to local traffic rules to ensure your safety.
By keeping these considerations in mind and planning ahead for a fulfilling and enjoyable experience, you are certain to savor the grandeur of Agra, the city of emperors.
