14 Things To Do In Agra: Explore The City Of Taj Mahal

An image of the Taj Mahal in Agra is huge with rounded and scenic pointed roofs.

Agra, a historical and religious centre in Uttar Pradesh attracts thousands of tourists every day. Along with the breathtaking Taj Mahal, one can enjoy many things to do in Agar with many picturesque locations that showcase India’s historical and architectural brilliance. Whether you are looking for things to do in Agra or just wish to find calm and peaceful places, the beauty and history of Agra have plenty of things to offer. Stick till the end if you don’t know what to do in Agra to explore the top things you can do in the city.

Top 14 Things To Do In Agra

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or simply an explorer, our curated list of the best things to do in Agra will help you make the most of your trip.

1. Witness The Beauty Of The Taj Mahal

An image of the Taj Mahal in Agra which has the basic white large building style.

Photo: Yann / Wikipedia

The breathtaking Taj Mahal situated in the city is an essential stop and it attracts with its stunning white marble structures accompanied by a very interesting story. It is one of the best things to see in Agra, and also a highlight when exploring things to do in Agra at night, especially during the full moon viewings. Made by 20,000 artisans and architects, the red fountain adorning the Taj Mahal depicts the love that Shah Jahan had for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, making the monument even more breathtaking.

Location: Dharmapuri, Forest Colony near Tajganj in Agra
Timings: 6 AM – 6:30 PM (Closed on Fridays)

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2. Agra Fort Light And Sound Show

An image of Agra Fort, that offers some of the best things to do in Agra, Uttar Pradesh.

Photo: Whistleraja / Wikimedia Commons

Agra Fort represents the excellence of Mughal architecture. Tourists can indulge in activities from discovering the night light and sound show of the Agra Fort and the events that it entails, to appreciating the structures post the laser show. When looking for things to do in Agra at night and exploring the Nightlife in Agra, this monument stands out as a must-visit. Among the select sites in the World Heritage Sites, the Agra Fort has a deep association with the Mughal period and should be very high on everyone’s agenda of things to see in Agra.

Location: Agra Fort, Rakabganj in Agra
Timings: 7:30 PM (English), 8:30 PM (Hindi)

3. Soak In The Beauty Of Mehtab Bagh

An image of Mehtab Bagh, that offers some of the things to do in Agra, Uttar Pradesh.

Photo: g.kaustav / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Mehtab Bagh, located across from the Taj Mahal, on the bank of Yamuna, offers the best experience of splendour during the sunset. It is a Persian-style garden made by emperor Babar that will make you experience Mughal period excellence. Fountains, flowers, trees and beautiful pools enhance Mehtab Bagh’s beauty. One of the best things to see in Agra is to stroll in this beautiful garden, which offers visitors wonderful views of the Taj over the Yamuna River.

Location: Dharmapuri, Tajganj in Agra
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Gorakhpur For A Cultural Experience

4. Explore Fatehpur Sikri

An image of a small wall encircled above the ground with flowers in Fatehpur Sikri.

Photo: Alexandre Ultré / Wikimedia Commons

Standing upon red Sandstone, Fatehpur Sikri is the erstwhile capital city of the Mughal empire filled with its rich history and culture. It is also known as ‘the City of Victory” founded by Akbar who was a great warrior and emperor of the Mughal period. Graves, palaces, and other royal buildings with magnificent gates and buildings including the grave of Salim Chishti make exploring this historical site one of the top things to explore in Agra, enhancing the beauty of the region with its history.

Location: Fatehpur Sikri, Agra District
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM

5. Experience The Royalty Of Jahangir Mahal

 An image of Jahangir Mahal, that offers some of the best things to do in Agra.

Photo: Shantanu dutt / Wikimedia Commons

Standing inside the Agra fort, Jahangir Mahal is unique as an Indo-Islamic building. This ladies’ palace was used by Mughal queens and is thus among the best places to go in Agra for its beautiful carvings and palace history. This mahal is a true example of Mughal architectural brilliance. Jahangir Mahal is a true example of architectural beauty and elegance. One can get to experience how Mughal queens used to live their royal lives as well.

Location: Agra Fort, Rakabganj, Agra
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM

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6. Spend Some Time At Jama Masjid

A picture of Jama Masjid with a huge dark brown circular structure with big towers and spires.

Photo: Muhammad Mahdi Karim / Wikimedia Commons

India’s biggest Mosque in history, the Jama mosque, Agra was built by Shah Jahan who was also one of the Mughal emperors and made this place for his daughter Jahanara Begum. Being one of the oldest mosques & its beautiful domes are enough to make anyone fall for it. A visit here is worth finding an escape from a busy life and is perhaps one of the top things to do as the environment is calm, temples are present, and beautiful dome structures.

Location: Opposite Agra Fort, Agra
Timings: 5:30 AM – 7 PM

7. Taste The Mughlai Cuisine

An image of Mughlai cooked white rice and curry with cucumbers served on the side on a plate.

Photo: Raman / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

For food enthusiasts, the best things to explore in Agra include trying Mughlai cuisine such as rich kebabs and delicious biryanis. This city will enable you to taste the different delicious foods from biryani to Mughalai Kabab that will make your day. No one leaves the city without tasting delicious Mughlai food and drinks as this food type is part of the royal Indian cuisine in the Mughal period making it worth experiencing in Agra.

Location: Multiple eateries around Tajganj and Sadar Bazaar

Suggested Read: Exploring Places To Visit Near Gorakhpur

8. Enjoy At The Dolphin Water Park

An image of the Water World, that offers 
some of the best things to do in Agra.

Photo: Maxim75 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

For families wondering what to do in Agra, exploring the Water World Show can be an exciting activity. There is a Dolphin show which proves to be a hit and perfect option for children and indeed for all people. Tourists can explore different water activities whether you want to enjoy water rides or want to watch dolphins dancing in the pool, this fun place has something for all.

Location: Runkuta on Mathura Road
Timings: 12 PM – 6 PM

9. Explore Taj Museum

An interior image of the Taj Museum in Agra with numerous aged copper, and brass pottery tools.

Photo: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Taj Museum is an appropriate location for those malevolent with a tinge of history within them as it is situated in persons surrounding the Taj Mahal. Tourists can also get to see celadon plates that change their colour or crack if the served food is poisonous. Other Mughal attractions such as miniatures, ancient gold and silver coins, paintings, beautiful sketches and imperial articles are kept in stock and thus they become one of the most appreciated things to see in Agra.

Location: Inside Taj Mahal Complex, Agra
Timings: 10 AM – 7 PM (Closed for Fridays)

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10. Take A Boat Ride On The Bank Of Yamuna

Take rides on colourful boats with flags as one of the things to do in Agra, Uttar Pradesh.

Photo: Mehmet Turgut Kirkgoz / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Going around in a boat on the Yamuna River, one can get a different but plush view of the Taj Mahal while playing with the water and breathing in the peaceful breeze. Tourists can get to see colourful boats fully decorated to make your ride worth every penny. This experience is one of the best things for photography enthusiasts, capturing the famed Lingam reflecting on the tranquil waters.

Location: Near Mehtab Bagh
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM

11. Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb (Baby Taj)

Explore the unique Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb - one of the best things to do in Agra.

Photo: Muhammad Mahdi Karim / Wikimedia Commons

Among the top things to do in Agra with friends is exploring the most beautiful building, Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, which is sometimes called the “Baby Taj.” It was built by Nur Jahan, who was married to Emperor Jahangir, and it is where her father, Mirza Ghiyas Beg, is buried. People think it was the first Mughal building made totally of white marble, and the Taj Mahal was influenced by its intricate inlay work. The tomb is a beautiful example of Persian and Mughal architecture.

Location: Etmadpur, Agra (around 4 km from Taj Mahal, on the eastern bank of Yamuna)
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM

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12. Akbar’s Tomb

The tomb of Akbar in Sikandra is known for its grandeur and is truly monumental.

Photo: Darshanavenugopal / Wikimedia Commons

On the outskirts of Agra, Akbar’s Tomb at Sikandra is a beautiful Mughal-era building. The tomb is spread out over a huge garden complex and is a unique mix of Islamic, Hindu, Buddhist, and Christian building styles. The building is made of red sandstone and has beautiful carvings, calligraphy, and marble inlays that make it a work of art. The calm environment is made even better by the fact that deer and peacocks live in the peaceful gardens.

Location: Sikandra, about 10 km from Agra city centre on NH-2 (Mathura Road)
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM

13. Shopping At Sadar Bazaar

Shop at the vibrant Sadar Bazaar, one of the best things to do in Agra, Uttar Pradesh.

Photo: CC0 Public Domain / PxHere / Image For Representation Only

When you go to Agra, you have to check out Sadar Bazaar, which is the city’s busy market. The best place to buy Agra’s famous marble inlay work, leather goods, handicrafts, textiles, and jewellery is in this market, which is known for its busy streets and bright shops. It is also a food lover’s dream, with snacks, street food in Agra, and the famous Agra petha. Shopping here is a unique experience because of the lively atmosphere, full of voices negotiating prices and cultural charm.

Location: Near Agra Cantt Railway Station (central Agra)
Timings: 11 AM – 11 PM

Suggested Read: Best Places For Shopping In Uttar Pradesh

14. Chini Ka Rauza

Explore the unique architecture of Chini Ka Rauza, one of the offbeat tourist places in Agra.

Photo: Rangan Datta Wiki / Wikimedia Commons

One of the unique things to do in Agra, witness the Chini Ka Rauza monument, which is not very well known. It is for Afzal Khan Shirazi, who was a Persian poet and teacher who lived in the court of Emperor Shah Jahan. The Persian style of architecture and the use of painted tiles, which are called chini mitti in the area, give it its name. The walls of the house used to be covered in bright blue, green and yellow tiles, and many of them are still there.

Location: 1 km north of Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, on the banks of the Yamuna
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM

Agra enchants with more than just the Taj Mahal, as it provides tranquil getaways and is filled with cultural and historical wealth. The ancient sights and local activities are some of the best things to do in Agra, regardless of whether one is a history buff, foodie, or just a person looking for some relaxation. So, plan a trip with TripXL today and get the customized trip experience as per your desire.

Cover Photo: Sylwia Bartyzel / Unsplash

Frequently Asked Questions

Agra is popular for its historical and religious places such as the Taj Mahal and its beautiful gardens, and its architectural buildings that reflect the Mughal Empire period which all make it a cultural and historical site.
2-3 days is enough to visit the key sites of Agra including the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and others such as Fatehpur Sikri.
November to March is the recommended time for tourists to go to Agra as it has cold weather which is perfect for tours.
Yes, places such as Mehtab Bagh, viewing the Taj from the banks of the Yamuna or walking around Jama Masjid are free for tourists.
One can explore Sadar Bazaar, Subhash Bazaar, Kinari Bazaar and TDI Mall in Agra to fulfil their shopping desires.
Akbar’s Tomb combines Hindu, Christian, Islamic, and Buddhist building types, which shows Akbar's desire for a secular world.
Baby Taj is thought to be an inspiration for the Taj Mahal because of its marble lattice work and inset designs.
For brand-name shops, you'd have to go to Agra's shopping malls. This market is more of a local traditional market.
Rupali Kushwaha

Rupali Kushwaha

Rupali is an avid traveller and writer who enjoys discovering new places and sharing her experiences. Her travel stories are fascinating, and she has a good eye for detail as well as a zest for adventure and cultural experiences. She brings a personal perspective to travel writing, focusing on the emotions, stories, and small wonders.
Rupali's Top Travel Highlights:
Rupali prefers the deep and personal side of travel, focusing on times of joy, peace, and experiencing life in new surroundings.
1. Memorable Mountain Escape in Jammu:
Explored the foggy hills and winding roads of Jammu, soaking in the calm, scenic beauty and the peaceful rhythm of mountain life.
2. Capturing the Subtle Charms of Travel:
Loves capturing the little things, like the way the mist covers the hills in the morning or the quiet calm of a hidden trail.

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