Agra, the love capital of India, is home to one of the seven wonders of the world – the Taj Mahal. Reeking of the vibes of the Mughal Empire, Agra is all about enchanting forts, intriguing tombs, bustling markets, and li-smacking street delicacies. Straddling a massive bend along the Yamuna River, this destination is nothing less than the epitome of Mughal architecture. Be it the red sandstone walls of the Red Fort or the snow-white marble of the Taj, Agra never fails to impress travelers who are seeking to get an insight into every aspect of the golden era. With no dearth of things to do in Agra, this city is more than what one can ask for.
Top 20 Things To Do In Agra In 2021
Agra is a city that has something to do for everyone. Be it beholding the beauty of numerous marvels or strolling around the beautiful gardens, the city excites the travelers in a manner like no other destination can. Home to a number of attractions including the iconic Taj Mahal, you can find your self a number of excting activities and things to do in this historic city. Take a look at this list of all the fun things to do in Agra that would make the whole experience memorable!
- Hotel Amar Vilas – Devour Dinner With A Marvelous View
- Kalakriti Dance Drama Show – Witness The Tale Of Love
- Restaurants/Cafes – Indulge In The Authentic Delicacies
- Flea Markets – Spend Some Pennies Without Feeling Guilty
- Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary – Spectate The Birds In Their Natural Habitat
- Taj Mahal – Soak In The Beauty Of The Marvel
- Local Cooking Experience – Try Your Hands On Cooking!
- Agra Fort – Watch The Magic Of Lights & Sounds
- Bars And Clubs – Party All Night!
- Boating – Float On The Yamuna River
- Fatehpur Sikri – Take A Short Detour
- Jama Masjid – Seek Spirituality
- Anguri Bagh – Soak Up Some Sun
- Panchhi Petha – Savour Agre ka Petha
- Mama Chicken – Relish Meat Dishes
- Mehtab Bagh – Admire the Vistas
- Jahangir Mahal – Discover The Brilliant Architecture
- Akbar’s Tomb – Explore The Domes
- The Water Park – Enjoy A Day Of Fun And Adventure
- Taj Museum – Dig Up Some History
1. Devour Dinner With A Marvelous View – Hotel Amar Vilas
Agra is one destination that gives you an opportunity to take your significant other on a perfect dinner date with a view of an architectural marvel. Hotel Amar Vilas is that spot that offers one of the top things to do in Agra i.e. relish the delicacies with the Taj Mahal as your view. One of the most expensive hotels, Amar Vilas is home to two finest restaurants, Bellevue and Esphahan. These restaurants serve an extensive menu of the finest international cuisine along with true, authentic flavors of India. The whole experience might get a little too heavy on the pockets but it is surely is worth a try!
Location: Taj East Gate Rd, Paktola, Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001
Timings: 7 am to 10:30 am, 12 pm to 3 pm, 7 pm to 11 pm
Best Time To Visit: Winter season (October to March)
Must Read: A Boat Ride From Delhi To Taj Mahal Is On The Cards & We Can’t Keep Calm!
2. Witness The Tale Of Love – Kalakriti Dance Drama Show
If you enjoy various forms of performing arts and are a bit hopeless romantic deep down in the heart, then this is definitely one of the best things to do in Agra in the evening. Every evening, Kalakriti Dance Drama Show hosts a dance musical on the ancient love saga. The 80-minute drama narrates the story about how the Taj Mahal came into existence, about that one most romantic couple – Shahjahan and Mumtaz Mahal. With vibrant costumes, alluring stage art, an enchanting replica of the Taj Mahal, and the multicolored lights thrown on the artists makes the entire experience truly memorable.
Cost Of Tickets: INR 1200 approximately
Location: Kalakriti Cultural and Convention Center, 41/142, A/1 VIP Road-Taj Mahal Road, Fatehabad Rd, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001
Timings: 10 am to 8:15 pm
Best Time To Visit: All year long
Suggested Read: The Taj Mahal – Visit India’s Favourite Heritage Monument In 2021
3. Indulge In The Authentic Delicacies – Restaurants/Cafes
Completing the authenticity of a true Agra experience, trying out different delicacies is definitely one of the best things to do in Agra. The scrumptious and lip-smacking delicacies offered in this city would not only make you want to crave more but would also make even those people hungry who would already be full. Indulge in the local breakfast of Bedai or Kachori and Jalebi, followed by the famous Agra Petha to satisfy that sweet tooth. From high-end restaurants to street-side thelas, Agra is home to numerous spots that serve the most tongue-tingling Mughalai cuisine.
Experience: Agra Food Walk – Explore Agra By Mouth (for all those foodies out there)
Location: Pinch of Spice, Pind Baluchi, Hotel Amar, Time To Eat, Mama Franky, Indian Pasta
Best Time To Try: Autumn-Winter season (November to March)
Suggested Read: After Red Fort & Qutub Minar, Taj Mahal Is Up For Adoption Too!
4. Spend Some Pennies Without Feeling Guilty – Flea Markets
Now that we have seen that there is something for foodies, it is time to see what Agra has to offer to the shopaholic souls. With no dearth of products to spend some dimes on, shopping is one of the most amazing things to do in Agra. The bazaars or flea markets in Agra are always colorful and bustling. These markets never fail to impress a traveler with its antiquity and old-world charm. Spices, silk saris, shoes, handicrafts, leather products, jewelry, and souvenirs are a few things that one should definitely look for when planning to shop in this capital city of love in the country. The narrow lanes hide jewel-like items somewhere in its lap. Although, it is always better to practice some bargaining skills to avoid paying extra!
Location: Jama Masjid, Subhash Bazar, Subhash Bazar, Kinari Bazar, Shahganj Bazar
Timings: 11 am to 7 pm
Best Time To Visit: Winter season (November to March)
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5. Spectate The Birds In Their Natural Habitat – Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
Giving you a chance to get closer to the marvels of mother nature, bird watching is one of the unique things to do in Agra. Located within an hour from Agra, this bird sanctuary is nothing less than heaven on earth for bird watchers and nature admirers. Home to more than 230 exotic species of birds, this bird sanctuary is one of the best places to see in Agra. One can easily spectate cranes, rosy pelicans, open bill, painted stork, egret, and many more. Famed as one of the best bird-watching sites in Agra, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary surely deserves a visit!
Location: Keoladeo National Park, Keoladeo National Park, Road, Bharatpur, Rajasthan 302001
Timings: 7 am to 5 pm
Best Time To Visit: All year long
Suggested Read: Finally! There’s A Limit On The Number Of People Visiting Taj Mahal Per Day & We Are So Relieved
6. Soak In The Beauty Of The Marvel – Taj Mahal
How can miss out on the epitome of love when in the capital city of love? The white marble, Mughal architecture, giant dome, and the beholding the beauty of the Taj Mahal tends to leave travelers in awe. One of the initial seven wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal appeals to the eyes of the spectators and attracts travelers from every corner of the world. It is one of the most iconic tourist places in Agra. Paying a visit to this beauty is definitely one of the must-try things to do in Agra to fulfill your purpose of the visit to this destination that reeks of love and history.
Location: Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001
Timings: 6 am to 6:30 pm, 8:30 pm to 12:30 am (Closed on Fridays)
Best Time To Visit: All year long
Suggested Read: Burj Khalifa Vs Taj Mahal: Comparing Two Of World’s Most Iconic Landmarks
7. Try Your Hands On Cooking! – Local Cooking Experience
After indulging in the traditional delicacies in this city, one would definitely wish to be able to replicate the flavors once back home. These cooking classes that take place in Agra offers exactly that. One of the most amazing things to do in Agra, taking cooking classes would help you understand the flavors and culture a lot more. Be it the Mughalai cuisine or the North Indian dishes, one gets to learn the centuries-old recipes that have been in the family for longer than one can even remember. One should, however, keep in mind that these are not professional classes, per se, but a teaching session that one can indulge in the voluntary local household.
Cost Of Classes: INR 4500
Timings: 5:30 pm
Best Time To Visit: All year long
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8. Watch The Magic Of Lights & Sounds – Agra Fort
For those who appreciate any sort of art and performances or both should definitely consider visiting Agra Fort after the sunsets. One of the most famous things to do in Agra at night, the light and sound show is a great way to get an insight into the history of the Mughals. Depicting the journey of the entire Mughal era by making use of colorful lights that fall on various parts of the fort, this sound show is perfect for not only the adults but also the little ones accompanying. It is one of the best places to see in Agra.
Cost Of Tickets: INR 70 for Indians, INR 200 for Adults
Location: Agra Fort, Rakabganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282003
Timings: 8:30 am to 9:20 pm
Time Required: 1 hour
Best Time To Visit: Winter season (October to March)
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9. Party All Night! – Bars And Clubs
Just because Agra is a historic city that does not mean that locals in Agra don’t know how to party. Another one of the wild things to do in Agra during the nightfall is definitely putting on your dancing shoes and heading out to some of the glittering and fancy clubs in this destination. Ranging from scrumptious food and delicious cocktails to great beats and vibrant atmosphere, the nightlife in Agra is exactly what one hopes for and more. One can take their loved ones or go with friends and have the time of their lives in the nightclubs of Agra.
Average Cost: INR 2000
Location: Club Rush, Color Bar, Liquid Lounge Bar, Amarvilas Bar
Best Time To Visit: All year long
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10. Float On The Yamuna River – Boating
Another romantic experience awaiting in the city of Agra is floating along the serene holy Yamuna River while the sun sets, spreading hues of various shades of orange all around. To add, this boat ride exhibits a view of the Taj Mahal in the most beautiful way possible. Imagine sitting with your loved one, embracing the tranquility, witnessing the beautiful Taj Mahal as the sun bids adieu in the backdrop. Reeking of romance and love, this is a must-try experience when in the city of Agra.
Location: Yamuna River
Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
Best Time To Visit: All year long
Suggested Read: 8 Best Places To Visit In Mathura In 2021 For Enjoying A Peaceful Vacation!
11. Take A Short Detour – Fatehpur Sikri
Once the capital of Mughals, Fatehpur Sikri is one of the most enchanting places to see in Agra. The 16th Century Mughal Empire boats many architectural gems that makes it one of the best places to visit near Agra. Akbar rebuilt the barren land of Skiri to pay homage to the Sufi saint Salim Chishti. The fortifications are made of red sandstone that looks picturesque in the day. It is not far from Agra and can easily be reached via public transport or a shared taxi.
Location: west of Agra, Uttar Pradesh
Best time to visit: October to March
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12. Seek Spirituality – Jama Masjid
Jama Masjid is one of the popular tourist places in Agra that should be on your list when you visit next. While the Mughal architecture of the place is appealing, the transcendent ambiance is soul-stirring. The mosque is just opposite to the Agra Fort and cannot be missed. People come here in the morning and evening to give Namaz. One can hear the voice of azan which is so peaceful to the ears.
Location: Jama Masjid Rd, Subash Bazar, Kinari Bazar, Hing ki Mandi, Mantola, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282003
Timings: 7:00 AM to 12 Noon, 1.30 PM to 6.30 PM
Best time to visit: November-March
Suggested Read: 10 Mosques In India That Showcase The Best Of Islamic Architecture
13. Soak Up Some Sun – Anguri Bagh
When you visit Agra Fort, make sure you spend some time in the sprawling Anguri Badh. It is one of the most beautiful tourist places in Agra. Constructed in the form of charbagh style, the garden is manicured with plants an flowers.It is in front of Khas Mahal and was built by Shah jahan to take a stroll in the evening. The pink sky in the backdrop during the time of sunset is truly astounding and one of the unmissable things to see in Agra. If you are visiting in the winter season, then soaking up some sun is the best thing to do.
Location: Agra Fort, Rakabganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282003
Timings: 6 AM – 7:30 PM
Best time to visit: Evening is the best time to visit the garden.
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14. Savour Agre ka Petha – Panchhi Petha
Agra is famous for a lot of things and petha is one of them. The dessert is made from pumpkin soaked in sugar syrup. It comes in a variety of flavors and forms. When you are done sightseeing in Agra, make sure you stop by one of the shops by the name Panchhi sweets where you will get the most authentic petha. While you are at it., you should also taste Dal moth, another famous thing in Agra. Get boxes for your friends and family from your visit.
Location: Multiple locations
Suggested Read: Finally! There’s A Limit On The Number Of People Visiting Taj Mahal Per Day & We Are So Relieved
15. Relish Meat Dishes – Mama Chicken
Since Agra is a city of Mughals, you will get an opportunity to taste a variety of meat dishes. Mama Chicken is one such place where you will get to taste lip-smacking grilled and curry dishes cooked in Mughlai style. It is the best place to savour typical Agran food if you are not always after five-star dining. Tickle your taste buds with dishes like Keema Kaleji, Butter Chicken, and Reshmi Malai Tikka.
Location: A-17 Shopping Arcade, Sadar Bazar, Agra Cantt, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001
Timings: 12-11 PM
Best time to visit: It is usually busy during 7-10 PM
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16. Admire The Vistas – Mehtab Bagh
Mehtab Bagh, a beautiful Persian style garden built by the first Mughal Emperor Babar. This well groomed cresant shaped garden is known for its green cover, fountains, airy pavilions, pools and is a great place to spend some peaceful time away from the crowds. Built in the 16th century, the garden has a touch of Mughal design and still delights its visitors with its beauty. Earning a tag of ‘moonlit pleasure garden’, the garden offers the best spot to capture the most amazing pictures of the Taj Mahal.
Location: Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Nagla Devjit, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Best time to visit: Any time of the day
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17. Admire The Brilliance – Jahangir Mahal
Jahangir Mahal, a noteworthy monument built by Emperor Akbar has been the royal abode for his Rajput wife and later the official residence of Noor Jahan, the spouse of Jahangir. This islamic monument is one of the most popular attractions of the Agra Fort. Apart from its intricate carvings and exquisite mughal design, the major attraction of this palace is a large bowl which is carved out of single piece of stone and was used for storing aromatic rose water.
Location: Rakabganj, Agra Fort, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282003
Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Friday Closed)
Best time to visit: Any time of the day
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18. Explore The Domes – Akbar’s Tomb
The eternal resting place of Emperor Akbar, The Akbar’s Tomb is an important piece of architecture and was built in 1605- 1613 by this only son Jahangir. Streatching across 199 acres of land, the tomb is an epitome of the brilliant mughal architecture and one of the most popular things see in Agra. Built entirely of white marvble and sandstone, this mammothian structure is surrounded by the Mughal gardens which was designed by Emperor Akbar himself and adds to the charm of the place.
Location: Tomb of Akbar The Great Area, Sikandra, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282007
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Friday Closed)
Best time to visit: Any time of the day
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19. Enjoy A Day Fun And Adventure- The Water World
One of the offbeat things to do in Agra is to visit The Water World. Streatching across 4 acres, The Water World is one of the most popular and fun places to visit in Agra. Featuring thrilling rides, water slides, roller coasters, kids play area and an ultimate source of adventure and fun, it is one of the best places to visit with your family. A great way to escape the summer heat in the city of Agra.
Location: NH-2, Mathura Rd, Lohamandi, Runkata, Uttar Pradesh 282007
Timings: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Best time to visit: Any time of the day
Suggested Read: After Red Fort & Qutub Minar, Taj Mahal Is Up For Adoption Too!
20. Dig Up Some History – Taj Museum
Taj Museum was built in 1906 by the then Viceroy of India(1895-1905), Lord Curzon and later developed by Zafar Hussan, the Superintendent-Archeological Survey of India. The two hexagonal rooms of the museums hold a number of inetersting artifacts most of them related to Taj Mahal. You can find old photographs, colored drawings, old architectural plans of Taj Mahal, samples of stones used for inlay work as well as rolay orders(Farmans). Exploring the museum can be one of the fun things to do in Agra if you are interested in the history of Taj Mahal and the Mughal era.
Location: Taj Mahal, Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001
Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Friday Closed)
Best time to visit: Any time of the day
Further Read: 21 Places To Visit Near Delhi In December 2020
Agra is a destination that never fails to impress. Ranging from foodies heaven and shopaholics paradise to history buffs and culture enthusiasts, there is something to do for everyone. These things to do in Agra may not be the best, but they certainly are the authentic experiences that make an escape to this beautiful destination worth it! Plan a trip to Agra and get an itinerary customized according to your preferences.
Frequently Asked Question About Things To Do In Agra
What can we do in Agra in one day?
Almost all the famous tourist attractions in Agra are located in the vicinity of each other. Some of the major attractions that one can cover in the span of one day include the Taj Mahal, Taj Museum, Jama Masjid, Agra Fort, Diwan-i-Khas, Jodha Bai Palace, and Buland Darwaza.
What can I buy in Agra?
Some of the famous things that one can spend some money on and shop in Agra include silk saris, leather products, miniature Taj Mahal, shoes, local handicrafts, Agra petha, and many more local souvenirs. One can easily buy a few gifts for friends and family back home.
What should I eat in Agra?
When in Agra, one should definitely indulge in some authentic Mughalai delicacies such as pulao, biriyani, malai kofta, naan, and more. One should also indulge in the local street food that includes kachoris, jalebis, and such.
What are the romantic things to do in Agra?
Some of the most romantic things to do in Agra with the loved ones are taking a boat ride on the Yamuna, indulging in candlelight dinner with amazing views, strolling around the Taj Mahal, taking a cooking class together, and many more such experiences.
What is the best time to visit Agra?
The best time to pay a visit to Agra is during the winter season when it’s neither too hot nor too cold. The months between November to March are the best months to travel around the city at the utmost comfort.
What is the best time of the day to see the Taj Mahal?
The best time to visit Taj Mahal is right after 3 pm in the evening. This is the time when the sun is about to say goodbye and one can see the golden shades falling on the structure. This soothing view takes away the breath of spectators.
What can I do in Agra at night?
Agra at night is one of the most vibrant and colorful towns one has ever seen. Be it witnessing the light and sound show or partying around in various clubs, there are numerous things that one can indulge in Agra during the night time.
How many days are enough for Agra?
Since Agra is not that big of a city, around 3 days are more than enough to witness every nook and cranny.