Agra needs no introduction. It is universally recognized as the home of the majestic Taj Mahal, and is a city that sits on every traveller’s bucket list when they finally make the journey to the Indian subcontinent. However, while the Taj is undeniably the star of the show, there are other things to do in Agra too.
The legacy of the Mughal Empire is showcased in Agra’s lesser-known tombs, vibrant bazaars, and massive forts as well. In fact, many of these sites are intricately linked to the story of the Taj Mahal itself, making them essential stops if you want to understand the full emotional and historical weight of the city.
If you are planning a visit, here is how to make the most of your time in this famous Indian city of love, featuring the best Other Things To Do in Agra beyond the Taj Mahal…
- Best Time To Visit
- Getting There
- Getting Around in Agra
- Things To Do in Agra
- Where To Stay in Agra
- More About India
Best Time to Visit Agra
Timing is everything when it comes to northern India.
- September to October & March to April: This is arguably the sweet spot for travel. Temperatures are manageable, and the crowds are thinner than in the peak winter months.
- November to February: This is the peak tourist season. The weather is delightfully cool (8°C to 20°C). But be warned: heavy morning fog is common in December and January, which can completely obscure the Taj Mahal at sunrise.
- May to June: It is incredibly hot, with temperatures often soaring above 40°C. However, if you can handle the heat, you’ll find fewer tourists and clearer skies for photography.
- July and August: Monsoon season. Expect humidity and occasional heavy downpours.
Getting to Agra
Agra is a key corner of India’s famous Golden Triangle (along with Delhi and Jaipur) and is very well connected.
By Train
The train is our favourite way to reach Agra.
- From Delhi: The fastest option is the Gatimaan Express, which departs from Hazrat Nizamuddin and reaches Agra Cantt in just 1 hour and 40 minutes. Note: This train does not run on Fridays.
- From Jaipur: Several daily trains connect the two cities, taking roughly 4 to 5 hours. The Agra Fort SF Express takes about 4.5 hours and drops you right at Agra Fort station.
It is a great part of the experience of travel in India to do a leg or two by train.
- Tip: Book your train tickets in advance via 12GoAsia or the IRCTC website, especially for the high-speed Gatimaan, as it sells out quickly!
By Road
A drive from Delhi to Agra takes about 3.5 to 4 hours via the Yamuna Expressway. Hiring a private driver is a popular and flexible option for families or groups.
Getting Around Agra
The easiest way to navigate the city is by auto-rickshaw or taxi.
We highly recommend booking a driver for a full day (or two).
Most homestays can organize a trusted local driver who will take you to the Taj at sunrise, wait for you, and then ferry you to the other historical sites throughout the afternoon.
- Tip: We always stay at Aman Homestay which is fun by a lovely family and they can organise rickshaw tours or a driver for the Taj Mahal and all the other things to do in Agra.
8 Things to Do in Agra (As Well as the Taj Mahal)
These are 8 Other Things To Do in Agra – including the Taj Mahal.
Because to truly experience Agra, you need to look past the main gates of the Taj. Here are eight sites that provide the cultural and historical context that makes this city so special.
1. The Taj Mahal
You can’t visit Agra without seeing it!
Described as the ‘jewel of Islamic art in India’, it was commissioned in 1632 by Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
- Tip: Arrive at the gates 30–45 minutes before sunrise. The light hitting the marble is spectacular, and you’ll beat the heaviest of the midday crowds.
- Security: Be aware that security is very strict. Leave large bags, chargers, (toys!) and snacks at your hotel.
Read Our Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Taj Mahal: Everything You Need To Know.
2. Agra Fort
Often overshadowed by its neighbour, Agra Fort is one of the finest Mughal forts in India and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was the main residence of the emperors until 1638.
As far as the connection with the Taj Mahal, Shah Jahan was eventually imprisoned here by his son, Aurangzeb.
He spent his final years in a room with a balcony overlooking the Yamuna River, staring out at the Taj Mahal—the tomb of his wife he was never allowed to visit again.
3. Shahi Jama Masjid: Other Things To Do in Agra
This 17th-century congregational mosque is one of the largest in India. Built by Jahanara Begum (Shah Jahan’s eldest daughter), it features striking red sandstone and intricate white marble.
It’s a peaceful, active place of worship that offers a glimpse into the spiritual life of the city.
4. Kinari Bazar: Other Things To Do in Agra
Located in the narrow streets behind the Jama Masjid, this is the oldest and most vibrant market in Agra.
It’s a sensory overload in the best way possible—think stacked spices, colourful jewellery, traditional fabrics – and the occasional live chicken.
We always love visiting any of the bustling bazaars in India. It’s the perfect place to experience the ‘real’ Agra.
5. I’timad-ud-Daulah (The ‘Baby Taj’)
The Baby Taj! This was the first tomb in India made entirely of marble, built between 1622 and 1628.
It serves as the inspiration for many of the architectural elements later seen in the Taj Mahal.
It is significantly quieter than the Taj and incredibly peaceful.
6. Chini Ka Rauza
This is the tomb of Afzal Khan Shirazi, a Persian scholar and poet who served as Shah Jahan’s Prime Minister.
It is unique in India for its distinct Persian architectural style and glazed tile work (known as ‘Chini’), reminiscent of the vibrant colours found along the Silk Road in Central Asia.
7. ADA Taj Yamuna View Point
For a different perspective of the Taj Mahal, and one of the most famous other things to do in Agra, head to the opposite bank of the Yamuna River.
This viewpoint is maintained by the Agra Development Authority and offers a series of benches where you can sit and watch the sunset light up the back of the monument.
It only costs 50 INR and is far more peaceful than the main site.
8. Mehtab Bagh (Moonlight Garden)
Located just behind the Yamuna View Point, this crescent-shaped garden was the eleventh and last of several Mughal gardens built along the river.
It is perfectly aligned with the Taj Mahal, providing a stunning symmetrical view across the water.
- Tip: It’s an ideal spot for photographers looking for that iconic reflection shot!
Where to Stay in Agra
Choosing where to stay can impact your experience, especially if you want to be close to the Taj for that early sunrise start.
- Budget-Mid: Aman Homestay This is a very friendly, family-run homestay. It features a rooftop with views of the Taj Mahal and serves incredible home-cooked meals. It’s our top recommendation for travellers looking for an authentic experience.
- Budget-Mid: The Coral House Homestay Located just 700 meters from the Taj Mahal, this spot has a relaxing garden atmosphere and comfortable common areas. It feels like a quiet retreat from the busy city streets.
- Mid-Luxury: Hotel Taj Resorts If you’re looking for a bit more luxury, this resort is only 600 meters from the Taj. It features an on-site restaurant and a swimming pool, which is a lifesaver after a hot day of sightseeing.
Final Thoughts
Agra is a city of layers. While the Taj Mahal is the hook that brings people here, there is more to see and other things to do in Agra: those bold red walls of the Fort, the iconic marble of the Baby Taj, and the chaotic energy of Kinari Bazar.
Give yourself at least two days in Agra. Dodge the touts, hop in a rickshaw, and explore the legacy of the Mughals beyond the white marble.
You’ll find that the city of the Taj has more than the postcards suggest! 🙂
Namaste and happy travels!
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Travel Planning for India & Beyond
These are the companies we use while traveling and that we would recommend to anyone planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation and it’s easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally.
- 12GoAsia – Book trains anywhere in Asia through 12Go.
- Skyscanner – Our favourite flight search engine. They can search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide – A huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world. Everything from walking tours to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
- SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Travel insurance tailored for short or longterm travel and nomads (including those who have already left home). Make sure you have travel insurance before visiting the Taj Mahal and other things to do in Agra!
Hi! I’m Sarah. I am the self-confessed dreamer, travel-schemer and the main editor behind this blog. I love to write, and it is a dream come true to share so many experiences together and inspire others in our stories.
