Famous Places to Visit in Agra in India

Agra is a city in northern India’s Uttar Pradesh state. It's home to the iconic Taj Mahal, a mausoleum built for the Mughal ruler Shah Jahan’s wife, Mumtaz Mahal (who died in childbirth in 1631). The imposing main building features a massive dome and intricately carved white marble inlaid with precious stones. This is set behind a reflecting pool inside a courtyard defined by 4 minarets.

Taj Mahal

People from all around the world may not have heard of Agra, but everyone knows the beautiful ivory white-marble mausoleum, Taj Mahal, as the icon of love. This wonder of the world is the perfect example of the intricacy and brilliance of Persian and Mughal architecture. It was constructed by Emperor Shah Jahan, in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. 

Agra Fort

As you enter and start to cross courtyard after courtyard, you realize that Agra has one of the finest Mughal forts in India. This red sandstone and marble architecture exudes power and grandiosity. Agra fort was primarily begun by Emperor Akber in 1565 as a military structure and was later transformed into a palace by his grandson Emperor Shah Jahan. 

Mehtab Bagh

Constructed just opposite the Taj Mahal, Mehtab bagh is a char-bagh (four garden) complex that is considered the ultimate viewing point of the magnificent marble mausoleum. The garden is open from sunrise to sunset and is considered a photographer’s haven because it is the point from where you can take some unique photographs of the Taj with a gorgeous backdrop.

Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah

This tomb is the first to be built in white marble instead of red sandstone, which officially marked the cessation of red sandstone from Mughal architecture. Itimad-ud-Daula is sometimes referred to as the “baby Taj” or a draft of the Taj Mahal, as it has been constructed with the same elaborate carvings and pietra dura (cut-out stone work) inlay techniques.

Taj Nature Walk

Offering a different, more relaxing side to Agra, Taj Nature walk is located just 500 meters away from the eastern gate of Taj Mahal. This is a place where you can walk around and enjoy some quiet time, especially during the winters. It is also quite famous for offering a view of the Taj from various angles, especially four main points from where you can see the Taj Mahal in the background. As you stroll around the park, beautiful birds, such as peacocks and hoopoes, can also be seen.