Curator’s statement
Agra is special to me because it’s where I experienced the Taj Mahal in its most magical light: at sunrise. Arriving at 5 am, I walked through the gates to find the monument bathed in soft golden hues, with almost no one else around. Standing in front of one of the world’s most iconic landmarks in such peace and quiet was surreal, as if the Taj Mahal had revealed itself just for me. That quiet morning made the experience unforgettable and showed me the true beauty of this wonder without the crowds.
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Things to do in Agra
Agra Fort
Taj Mahal at sunrise: The ultimate Agra experience. Arrive early (around 5 am) to see the marble glow in soft light and enjoy it before the crowds arrive.
Agra Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage site and former Mughal stronghold with palaces, gardens, and a view of the Taj Mahal from its walls.
Mehtab Bagh (Moonlight Garden): Located across the Yamuna River, this garden offers stunning views of the Taj: especially at sunset.
Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah (“Baby Taj”): Often called a draft of the Taj Mahal, this beautiful marble mausoleum is smaller, less crowded, and intricately detailed.
Fatehpur Sikri (day trip): About an hour from Agra, this abandoned Mughal city is incredibly well-preserved and full of history.
Try Agra’s famous petha: A sweet made from ash gourd, sold in many local shops: it’s the city’s signature treat.
Explore local bazaars: Wander Kinari Bazaar or Sadar Bazaar for handicrafts, marble inlay work, leather goods, and souvenirs.
Mughal Heritage Walk: A guided cultural walk through Kachhpura village that combines local life with unique Taj views.
Akbar’s Tomb (Sikandra): A massive red sandstone mausoleum surrounded by gardens and wildlife, dedicated to Emperor Akbar.
Sunset by the Yamuna River: End your day watching the Taj Mahal glow in the fading light from one of the riverside spots.
Places to eat & drink in Agra
Pinch of Spice: A beloved spot near the Taj Mahal known for its diverse menu: offering North Indian, continental, Chinese, and Italian dishes. Don’t miss their butter chicken, murgh boti, and Daal Bukhari. Warm ambiance, attentive service, and generous portions make it a top choice for travelers.
The Salt Cafe Kitchen & Bar: A stylish rooftop café with striking views of the Taj Mahal. The menu blends continental and Indian flavors: think butter chicken pasta and dim sum paired with lively bar vibes and great ambiance.
Peshawri (ITC Mughal): Luxury dining at its finest. Known for its clay‑oven specialty dishes like Dal Bukhara, kebabs, and the Raan, this is the perfect indulgence for a special evening in Agra.
Urban Deck: A chic rooftop restaurant offering Indian delicacies and drinks in a curated, rustic-chic setting. Features air-conditioned private dining rooms, poolside cabanas, and a relaxed bar—ideal for a scenic evening meal.
Mughal Room (Clarks Shiraz): Located inside Clarks Shiraz Hotel, this top-floor restaurant specializes in Mughlai and regional cuisine, with a refined ambiance and elegant service.
Deepee Restaurant (formerly Dasaprakash): A long-standing favorite for authentic South Indian cuisine. It’s vegetarian, serving thalis, dosas, and a lineup of flavorful options, plus delightful ice cream desserts.
Joney’s Place: A beloved, cozy local eatery in the Tajganj area: one of Agra’s oldest spots, known for its homestyle meals and welcoming vibe.
Sadar Bazaar Street Food: For an authentic local taste, head to Sadar Bazaar and explore Agra’s vibrant street food scene: chaat, bedai with jalebi, and dahi aloo tikki are must-tries. A true culinary dive into local life.
Need to know
To make the most of your time in Agra, I recommend arriving at the Taj Mahal at sunrise to enjoy the monument in golden light with fewer crowds, and purchasing tickets online in advance to skip long lines (large bags and tripods aren’t allowed inside).
Beyond the Taj, be sure to explore Agra Fort, the Baby Taj, and Mehtab Bagh for a fuller experience of the city’s history. Staying at a hotel close to the gates makes early morning visits easier, and tasting local specialties like petha or bedai with jalebi is a must.
Keep in mind that winters are cool and pleasant while summers can be very hot, so pack accordingly, and consider hiring a local guide to bring the rich Mughal history to life.
Booking with me ensures all of these details are taken care of: tickets, guides, timing, and more, so your trip runs seamlessly and you can simply enjoy the magic of Agra.
Travel Advisor
Samantha Aguirre
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Agra page.