Agra city - impressions and sights. Agra is a tourist city of India Geographical position of the city
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder! So I want to answer everyone who says that Agra is a real dump, with sights bloated out of nothing. After a while, I no longer remember all the dirt and garbage that this Indian town was strewn with. But the great creations of human hands, which proudly rise in the expanses of Agra, have forever settled in the memory, as something absolutely incredible. Wonder of the world, and nothing else.
How to get there
To get to Agra, in any case, you will first have to get to the capital of India. And from there you can already choose different transport: plane, train or taxi.
By plane
There are no direct flights to Agra from Moscow or St. Petersburg, but you can take a compound flight via New Delhi. On a flight from New Delhi - Agra, you will have to make a transfer at. Please note that there are only a few flights a week from the capital. Therefore, if you choose this method, be guided by the current schedule.
Flight types
- The fastest and most convenient the way to get to New Delhi from Moscow is to use the services of Aeroflot. Direct flight in 6 hours you will find yourself in the capital of India. But this is not the cheapest option, tickets will cost 620-800 USD (35,000-45,000 rubles). Keep track of promotions and earn miles with the help of airline partners, this is a good way to save money.
- The most budget the flight is offered by Gulf Air with a transfer in Bahrain from 480 USD (28,000 rubles). Emirates, Air Astana, Qatar Airways, Uzbekistan Airways also have many options with various combinations of transfers and are very slightly more expensive. You can compare ticket prices and look for great deals, for example.
- Air India flies from New Delhi to Agra. The net flight time is 2.5 hours, but the docking time can be either 30 minutes or more than a day. Tickets will cost about 100-140 USD (6,000-8,000 rubles). To India, you must apply for a tourist visa in advance at the embassy, or obtain an electronic permit, more details about this are described.
How to get from the airport
From the capital, planes arrive at Kheria Airport, which is located just 6 km from the city.
There are prepaid taxi stands at the airport. A trip to the city center will cost 5 USD (320 USD). There are public transport stops near the airport, but it is not known what schedule and route they run on. And with luggage, squeezing into a stuffy bus crowded with locals is not the best idea.
By train
The most convenient and fastest way to get to Agra from New Delhi or other Indian cities is by train. I took the 2280 Taj Express Superfast train from the station New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) at 07.00 and went to the main station in Agra Cantt (AGC). The distance between cities is 200 km, the train passes in about 2-3 hours, every day. I took a first class ticket for 4 USD (263 INR), the second class is less comfortable (no air conditioning) and costs 1.15 USD (75 INR).
Train 12002 Bhopal Shatabdi leaves New Delhi at 6:00. A first class ticket will cost 10 USD (700 INR). This train is considered the fastest, at 10:00 it already arrives in Agra, every day except Friday.
I bought a ticket online. Please print your voucher in advance to present before boarding the train.
It is better to buy tickets in advance, as there may be no seats on the day of departure. Travel agencies, which are located on the main streets of any city, take a percentage for the provision of ticket sales services. But they don't have big lines. You can buy a ticket at the station, but there are always a lot of people there.
Lunch is served on the train, however, I could not determine the taste of what it consists of.
Many come to Agra for one day. Train 2279 Taj Express departs from the main station at 18.55. Train 12001 NDLS Shatabdi- at 20:30, every day except Friday.
How to get from the station
From the train station it is easy to get a taxi or an auto rickshaw at the pre-paid counter, the prices there are fixed depending on the area you are going to. It will cost 200 INR (3 USD) to the center - a taxi, auto rickshaw is half the price. You can take a private trader, but be prepared to bargain desperately, as the initial cost is at least twice as high.
By bus
Buses in India do not have a fixed timetable and are often very congested with people standing up with large bales. To avoid this, take a ticket for an air-conditioned luxury bus for 12 USD (800 INR).
Buses depart from Sarai Kale Bus Stand as they fill up. Travel time is about 4 hours, but you can get into a serious traffic jam. Arrive - at the Idgah Bus Station.
By car
Many rent a car to see other cities on the way to New Delhi-Agra. But you need to calculate your strength, since in India there are almost no traffic rules. Many cars do not have side mirrors, and car horns are used instead of turn signals. You can view current booking prices.
The fastest road from New Delhi is of good quality, but toll.
You can order a taxi at the airport or train station for about 65-75 USD (4,000 - 5,000 INR).
Clue:
Agra - the time is now
Hour difference:
Moscow - 2:30
Kazan - 2:30
Samara − 1:30
Yekaterinburg - 0:30
Novosibirsk 1:30
Vladivostok 4:30
When is the season. When is the best time to go
The most comfortable weather for visiting Agra is set from the beginning of October, when the rainy season ends, but at the same time there is no sizzling heat outside. Of course, there are a lot of tourists in the city from the end of autumn and all winter, which can make it difficult to visit the sights.
Agra in summer
Until mid-summer in Agra is hot. The daytime temperature stays around +30-35°C, but sometimes it can reach +45°C in the sun. The rainy season begins in July and runs quite moderately until September. August is considered the wettest month, it rains for about 14 days.
Agra in autumn
The dry season begins in October, the daytime temperature drops to +18-20 °С. The lush flowering of plants and trees begins.
Agra in spring
From the end of March, hot sunny weather sets in. Rain is unlikely, and the temperature rises to +30°C.
Agra in winter
In winter, the temperature is kept at + 14-17 ° C, which is quite cool. I did not have suitable clothes, and I had to walk in a winter down jacket, in which I flew in from Moscow. On the other hand, it was very comfortable in the evening, as the temperature dropped to +4°C.
Agra - monthly weather
Clue:
Agra - monthly weather
Districts. Where is the best place to live?
Often travelers come to Agra only for a day, but despite this, there are no problems with housing.
The most convenient area for accommodation is Tajganj (1)(Tajganj), it is directly adjacent to the Taj Mahal. I advise you to approach the choice of housing with all responsibility, because a high price is not a guarantee of quality service. Behind the beautiful pictures on the Internet, shabby walls and unwashed bedding can be hidden. Therefore, focus on reviews on booking sites, for example, on Booking
In India, in principle, everything is not expensive, and hotels of major world chains are available to a wave. They can find rooms with balconies and terraces with a great view of the Taj Mahal for 100 USD (6,500 INR - Indian rupee). Just keep in mind that from December to mid-January it is hidden in the fog.
If you are not embarrassed by the Spartan conditions, then for a couple of tens of dollars you can stay in a guesthouse (about 1,000 INR). There is no need to book them in advance. Ask a taxi driver to take you to Fatehabad Road and just walk around choosing the most suitable room. Be sure to bargain.
Another popular area for visitors to Agra is Rakabganj (2) (Rakabginj). There are not many options for budget housing. In this area you will be able to live in close proximity to the Agra Fort and the Pearl Mosque.
If you are traveling with a large family, you can rent a whole house, but most of them are quite far from the main attractions. You can see different options
What are the prices for holidays
Of all India, Agra is considered almost the most expensive city. In fact, if you do not get tired of haggling everywhere and keeping track of checks (in hotels and restaurants, extra positions are often attributed), then you can meet any budget. And besides, you will not spend more than you have in your pockets.
Hotels
There is housing for every wallet - from a couple of dollars to several hundred and even thousands. BUT! You should not think that if you gave away hundreds of dollars and settled in a luxurious hotel with a worldwide reputation, then everything will be perfect. Such is the Indian mentality that a maid, without a twinge of conscience, can, instead of laying out new bed linen, simply straighten the sheets after the previous guests. I don't think it's worth making a worldwide scandal because of this. Just politely point out what you don't like and the staff will correct their mistakes. It !
Restaurants
With cafes and restaurants, the situation is the same as with hotels - there is something for every budget. If you go sightseeing with a guide or a full-day taxi driver, they often take you to "the best and cheapest" establishments. In fact, they take them to places with which they have an agreement and they receive their percentage from such pandering. If you are not satisfied with the price or the menu, insistently tell your companion about it.
I chose cafes and restaurants myself, focusing on establishments where locals eat. Below you can see a list of recommended places for any budget.
Attractions
Entrance to cultural centers is not cheap relative to prices in India. For tourists, tickets are 10 times more expensive than for a local resident. But no more than 20 USD (1,200 INR).
Transport
For short distances, it is better to take a rickshaw, the price of the trip should not exceed 80 INR (less than 1 USD). For the whole day it will cost about 15 USD (970 INR).
But keep in mind that you will stand in stuffy traffic jams and be constantly attacked by local beggars. Taking a taxi for short distances is not profitable, but for the whole day for 25-30 USD you can rent a car with air conditioning and a driver.
Clue:
The cost of food, lodging, transportation, etc.
Currency: US dollar, $ Euro, € Russian ruble, rub Indian rupee, ₨
Main attractions. What to watch
All travelers arriving at the main station are faced with a crowd of taxi drivers and guides. I immediately arranged a trip to the hotel and rent a taxi for the whole day. The cost is approximately 8-12 USD (500-750 INR). It is much more convenient and cheaper than looking for a taxi to the next place at every museum.
In addition to the taxi driver, I advise you to take a guide at the station. It is not at all necessary that he walk around and tell you about all the sights, but at all ticket offices and lines at the entrance, he will lead you past the crowd. Since there is a separate priority ticket window and entrance for guides. The price depends on how much time he spends with you and how much he tells you, but on average this service costs about 10-20 USD (650-1,300 INR).
If you need a Russian-speaking guide, you can find it on special sites, there are many of our compatriots in Agra.
You can save some money if you buy a special ticket from the Agra Development Association ADA. The entrance fee to Agra's five main attractions - Taj, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Akbar's Tomb and Itimad-ud-Dawla Mausoleum - consists of a fee to two different organizations: Archaeological Survey of India ASI and ADA. But the discount is so insignificant that if there is no intention, like mine, to visit everything, you should not bother.
Top 5
- Taj Mahal. The visiting card of India, the eighth wonder of the world, the most important architectural creation of man - all this is about the Taj Mahal. I came to the very opening, but even at such an early time there were quite a lot of people. These are mainly local residents who create a special flavor with their colorful clothes against the background of snow-white marble. True, this also complicates the process of photographing, in 9 out of 10 photographs there is always someone's head. By the way, tripods are not allowed on the territory.
Entrance for foreign tourists costs 15 USD (1,000 INR), shoe covers and a bottle of water are issued along with the ticket. Shoe covers must be worn when climbing to the platform on which the mausoleum is located and entering the mausoleum itself. And do not listen to those who say that the Taj Mahal does not make much of an impression. Despite the fact that the minarets are hidden by scaffolding, this monument of love and the wonders of building skills are simply amazing. From the side of the Taj Mahal, you can see the central gate through which you enter the territory. 
Entrance is open daily from 6:00 to 19:00, except Friday. Two days before and two days after the full moon, the mausoleum is open in the evening hours - from 20.30 to midnight. There is a museum on the territory, which I will talk about below, in the corresponding section. - Agra fort. Agra Fort, or Red Fort, is located 2.5 km from the Taj Mahal to the north. And although it seems that the walk is not far at all, it is better to travel this distance by rickshaw or taxi. This is the second most important attraction in Agra, where you should spend a couple of hours.
Entrance costs 500 INR, but if you keep your ticket from the Taj Mahal, you will get a 50 INR discount. At the entrance to the ford, be careful, there are a lot of monkeys that can snatch any thing they like. They react especially strongly to shiny earrings in the ears, chains and glasses. 
I advise you to read the history of this place in advance, print out a small guide, or hire a guide, because there are a lot of different halls and rooms in the ford. If you know English and want to save money, then you can walk a short distance from an organized group of tourists and eavesdrop on their guide. Be sure to climb the Musamman Burj tower, where, according to legend, Shah Jahan spent the last years of his life in captivity, overlooking the Taj Mahal. 
The fort has the shape of a semicircle and covers an area of more than 91 hectares, but most of it is closed to tourists and is used for military purposes. Beautiful green gardens are located in the courtyards. On the lawns, a couple of Indians and the whole family arrange mini-picnics. - Baby Taj (Tomb of Itemad-ud-Dauly). After the fort, without hesitation, I went to the Shrine of Itemad-ud-Daula. Also called in Agra the Small Taj Mahal, or Baby Taj. In appearance, it is really very similar to the Taj Mahal, only greatly reduced in size. But the tomb is located in the middle of a huge garden, which is home to tame chipmunks (in Asia they are called tree squirrels), many colorful birds, whose names, unfortunately, I do not know.
By the way, I can’t help but mention the shocking contrast that every time arises before my eyes, when after terribly dusty, smelly streets completely littered with garbage and along which sewage flows, you find yourself in these beautiful green gardens. If you drive from the southern part of the city and cross the Jumna River, be sure to notice how women rinse fabrics dyed in bright colors on its banks. This is the traditional way of producing dyed fabrics, which are then used to make saris and other textiles. 
Sikandra. Many guidebooks write that Sikandra is located 8 km from Agra, but in fact it is within the city, just on its very outskirts. 
This former Indian village is famous for the fact that Akbar the Great, an outstanding ruler from the Mughal dynasty, is buried here. In the hall near his sarcophagus there are also decorative graves of his two daughters Aram Bano and Nishi Begam. In the gardens surrounding the tomb, various living creatures are found: antelopes, monkeys, peacocks and chipmunks. 
In its scope, this tomb is sometimes compared to a palace. Therefore, the main attraction of Sikandra is the tomb of Akbar the Great, spread over 48 hectares (a truly worthy grave for an outstanding emperor).
Mehtab Bagh. Or the "Moon Garden" - one of the most beautiful parks in Agra. It is located on the east bank of the Yamuna River - opposite the Taj Mahal. I took a taxi across the bridge, but you can get to the garden by ferry in 15 minutes from the Taj Mahal. 
I liked the garden because, in contrast to the noisy and dirty city, it is an oasis of silence, tranquility and landscaping. It offers a beautiful view of the Taj Mahal, you can take interesting panoramic photos at sunset.
Churches and temples. Which are worth a visit
Jama Masjid
Entrance to the Jama Masjit (Friday Mosque) is free, but do not forget about appropriate clothing.
At the entrance you are asked to take off your shoes. For a long time I fought off pesters who are trying to carefully put your shoes in a secluded place, and at the exit they beg for a lot of money for it. To avoid this, take a backpack with you. Jama Masjit is a Muslim temple built in 1648 by order of Emperor Shah Jahan and dedicated to his beloved daughter Jahanara Begum. It is located opposite the Agra Fort. The mosque was built in a typical Mughal style - a combination of local Indian and Iranian architectural features. East side entrance.
Sri Mankameshwar
Sri Mankameshwar is considered the oldest Hindu temple. It is located near the Fort Agra railway station.
According to legend, the temple was founded by Shiva himself on the birthday of Krishna. Sri Mankameshwar has been rebuilt many times, so that historians find it difficult to determine the antiquity of this building. Don't forget to consider the lingam covered in silver.
Radha-Soami-Satsang
The main temple of the followers of the Radha-Soami ("God's Soul") movement is located next to the Fort Agra railway station north of Sri Mankameshwar. In June, the Radhasoamites hold a big holiday, when hundreds of believers gather near the temple.
Akbar Cathedral
Akbar Cathedral is the main Catholic temple in India. Its history began in the 16th century, when on February 18, 1580, a delegation of three Portuguese Jesuit fathers arrived at the court of Emperor Akbar. Their enthusiasm and learning so shocked the emperor that he gave them permission for missionary work. In 1598-1604, the first cathedral building in the Baroque style was erected.
Under him, the Jesuits opened a collegium and a hospital. In 1610, they managed to baptize several offspring from the Sultan's family, but then a period of persecution and decline began. The Catholic community of Agra was revived in the second half of the 18th century with the tacit support of Great Britain. It was then that the cathedral was rebuilt and acquired its characteristic modern features. However, inside it is a typical church, which is visited with pleasure by both believers (most of them Indians) and tourists.
Malankara Orthodox Church of Saint Thomas
The parish of Saint Thomas in Agra is small. It was founded in 1965 and is visited mainly by immigrants from the south of India. The church is open for Sunday prayers, as well as on holidays.
Museums. Which are worth a visit
Taj Museum
The museum is located on the territory of the Taj Mahal and you do not need to buy an additional ticket here. The museum itself is small, and if you came without a guide, I advise you to stop by and get acquainted with the history of the creation of the mausoleum. The museum displays exhibits of Mongolian culture, coins, maps and clothing items. It took me no more than half an hour to get around.
Shahin Arts
I call such places museums, because I never buy anything from them because of the astronomical prices. But in fact, this is a workshop together with a shop designed for tourists. In the workshop, they told me and showed me how marble is processed and inlaid. You can even try to participate a little, but this apparently depends on at what point in production you visit the workshop. The price tag for "exhibits" starts from 10,000 USD. And this is for small pieces of furniture (chairs, coffee tables), chess and elephant figures are very popular. For 20 USD you can buy a small magnet, the price does not depend on the size of the product, but on the number of stones. The Workshop Museum is located at Shamshabad Road, Near Pani KI Tanki, Agra. Works around the clock.
In general, there are a lot of such workshops in Agra, be guided by which one is more convenient for you to get to. Here are a few more addresses: New Nice Marble Art & Handicrafts (Address: Tajnagri Phase 2, Tajganj, Agra), Marble Cottage (Address: Behind Dominos Pizza Fatehabad Road).
Agra Art Gallery
This is a jewelry store where you can see and buy inexpensive jewelry made of semi-precious stones. At first I even thought that they were offering me some kind of fake, the price was so low. But acquaintances from Moscow jewelers said that many come to India specifically to buy stones.
In the shop, the visitor is seated on a chair and brought various products, telling the intricacies of production. No one imposes anything if they do not see an open interest. But if you want to buy something, be sure to bargain.
Kohinoor Jewelers
Here, too, various jewelry items are for sale, but the most interesting is a small museum where you can see the work of one of the greatest masters of zardozi embroidery, an ancient art of embroidery, which was practiced exclusively by men.
And in a separate room, where the works of the students of the great master are exhibited, you can buy your favorite painting. Located at Fatehabad Road, Agra.
parks
The main parks of Agra are Mehtab Bagh, Anguri Bagh, Ram Bagh. If you are going to visit the top 5 attractions that I wrote about above, then, of course, do not miss them.
Rambach garden
The Rambach Garden is located north of the Taj Mahal. Drive through traffic jams for about an hour. The Rambach Garden is considered to be the oldest garden created during the Mughal era. It is also called the "Garden of Light" and "Garden of Sloth". This is connected with the legend that Emperor Akbar proposed to his third wife in this garden, where she was a gardener, and lay there doing nothing for six days until she agreed to marry him.
The garden was decorated in Persian style - the emphasis was on the abundance of sunlight, at the same time, the garden has pavilions, gazebos, tall sprawling trees that provide enough shade on hot days.
wildlife SOS
It is a rehabilitation center for elephants and bears rescued from abuse and circuses that have been mistreated.
Volunteers are currently taking care of the animals. You can make a voluntary contribution to help care for the animals or just feed and play. As I was later told, to visit you need to write an e-mail about your visit, to. But I arrived without warning and this did not bother the park staff at all, and they let me through without any problems. Address: National Hwy 2, Agra Bear Rescue Facility, Agra.
Motilal Nehru Park
Any parks are primarily created for rest from the bustle and tiring rhythm of the city. The value of parks is revealed in India like nowhere else. In the center of the park there is a large monument to Jawaharlal Nehru. You can lie on the lawn and in the shade of trees. Address: Off Taj Road | Near Purani Mandi Chauraha, Agra.
Mausoleum of Chini-ka-Rauza
Visiting the mausoleum is free, but its condition leaves much to be desired - it has long been in need of restoration.
I had a lot of free time in Agra, so I decided to stop by, but if you are limited in time, then be aware that the historical site is quite destroyed. Local “guides” are scurrying around, who will pester with offers to show beauty hidden from prying eyes. Do not be fooled, all the information is on the Internet, and you will not miss anything, even if you read it after visiting.
tourist streets
In Agra, there are no tourist streets as such, along which you can safely walk. All the sidewalks are full of rickshaws, the roads are full of traffic mixed with cows. In addition, a white tourist attracts a lot of attention with his appearance alone. I couldn't walk calmly even 100 meters, they constantly offered to give me a lift, buy something, and the children asked for alms.
The only thing that stands out is the dense streets of the Taj Ganj, which were built by the artisans who worked on the construction of the Taj Mahal. There are many cafes and small restaurants in these streets where you can go up to the roof and dine with a view of the Taj Mahal.
What to see in 1 day
The best option to see Agra in one day is to take the Bhopal Shatabdi Train 12002, which arrives at the Central Station at 10:00. There are lockers at the station where you can leave your luggage. I advise you to immediately take a guide, who can be found on the advice on various forums. You can hire a guide at the station, but there is a risk that it will turn out to be an Indian who arrived yesterday from the Indian province and absolutely does not know the routes of the city. Real guides must have special badges with which they can buy tickets at the box office without queuing. Another plus is that the guide will be able to competently direct your taxi driver, incomprehensible cafes and shops without arrivals. If something does not suit you, threaten that you will pay less.
10:00-13:00 - Arriving at 10 am, immediately head to the Taj Mahal. In terms of time, you need to lay about 3 hours, because at the entrance you need to go through a personal search and a metal detector, where there are always very long queues. Yes, the park is big enough.
13:00-14:00 - After visiting the Taj, grab a bite to eat at the nearest rooftop cafe.
14:00-14:40 - Road from Taj to Agra Fort.
14:40-18:00 - The next main attraction to visit is Agra Fort. If you look at the map, it seems that the road is very close to the Taj Mahal. But in fact, it will take at least 40 minutes due to terrible traffic jams. I advise you to spend the rest of the day in the Fort, because its territory is very extensive, there are many interesting halls and towers that you can climb, a beautiful garden.
The last train leaves at 20:30, but it gets dark in Agra much earlier (around 18:00), so it makes little sense to linger in Agra after sunset.
What to see in the surroundings
Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri, the capital of the Mughal Empire for 14 years, is located 30 km west of Agra. If you travel from Agra or Jaipur by car, then I advise you to go here first. The city was built by Emperor Akbar between 1571 and 1585 in honor of the holy prophet. Fatehpur Sikri is a unique example of a Mongolian city that has survived to this day. On the territory of the city are the tomb of the holy prophet Salim Chishti and the temple of Jama Masjid, as well as private and public buildings. The tomb became a place of worship for many believers, but due to lack of water, like the city, it was abandoned, and after a while it was plundered.
Entry is open 6am to 6pm and costs 500 INR. I was very surprised by the fact that even during the day there were very few tourists. Behind the palaces is a mosque and the tomb of Salim Chishti. Whole families of craftsmen sit in the shade of the buildings, carving stone figurines and selling them on the spot.
Food. What to try
Despite the fact that vegetarian cuisine prevails in Agra, you will definitely not leave hungry. In general, I never advise looking for non-local cuisine and eating pizza and burgers not in their historical homeland. Firstly, how can Indians who do not eat meat cook delicious steak? And secondly, unconventional food is very easy to get poisoned. After all, it is not for nothing that so many spices are added to all dishes, thereby killing microbes.
When ordering, ask the waiter "know spicy". This does not mean at all that pepper will be completely absent in the dish, but it will be more realistic to eat and not burn your stomach that is not accustomed to such food.
My favorite dish turned out to be a bread cake with cheese and garlic - Cheese garlik naan. And when ordering dishes from the vegetarian menu, every time I was surprised how absolutely incredible flavor combinations can be achieved with the help of various seasonings, which is even difficult to imagine what the dish was prepared from.
Budget
- Bamboo Cafe(Address: 30 M.I.G Taj Nagri Phase | Near Shilpgram, Agra) - Indian, Asian, Vegetarian Friendly
- Time 2 Eat Mama Chicken Mama Franky(Address: 2 Sadar Bazaar Road, Agra) - Indian, Fast Food, Asian, Vegetarian Friendly
- Treat Restaurant(Address: South Gate Taj Mahal, Agra) - Indian, Asian, Vegetarian Friendly
- Jones's Place
- Good Vibes Cafe(Address: Taj Nagari Phase 1, Agra) --Indian, Asian, Vegetarian Friendly
- Cafe Sheroes Hangout(Address: Fatehabad Road | Opposite the Gateway Hotel, Agra) - Italian, Chinese, Indian, Fast Food, Cafe, Vegetarian Friendly
Intermediate level
- Pinch of Spice(Address: 1076/2 Fatehabad Road | Opposite Hotel ITC Mughal, Agra) - Chinese, Indian, Asian, Vegetarian Friendly
- Green Park Restaurant(Address: Grand Parade Road | Near Ganpati Textile Emporium & hotel Savera, Agra) - Indian, International, Vegetarian Friendly
- Bob Marley Restaurant(Address: P6 Taj Nagri Vip Road, Agra) - Indian, Asian, Vegetarian Friendly
- Bon Barbecue Restaurant(Address: Fatehabad Road | 3A-3B Phase 1, Parador Hotel, Taj Nagri, Tajganj, Agra) - Chinese, Indian, BBQ, Asian, Vegetarian Friendly
MoMo Cafe(Address: Fatehabad Road | Courtyard Marriott, Agra) - Indian, Asian, International, Vegetarian Friendly
Expensive
Esphahan(Address: Taj East Gate Road | The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra) - Indian, Asian, International, Vegetarian Friendly
ITC Mughal Taj Bano(Address: Taj Ganj, Agra) - Indian, Asian, Vegetarian Friendly
- C"est Chine(Address: Fatehabad Road | Jaypee Palace Hotel, Agra) - Chinese, Asian, Indian, Vegetarian Friendly
- Peshawri(Address: Tajganj | ITC Mughal, Agra) - Indian, Asian, Vegetarian Friendly
Holidays
Taj Mahotsav is one of the most anticipated holidays in India, which takes place in Agra every year in February-March and lasts ten days. The festival is traditionally located at the eastern gate of the Taj Mahal on the territory of the Shilpgram market, where souvenirs are usually sold. Only during this holiday in Agra, an incredible mixture of various arts, crafts, music, dances, and cuisine takes place on the streets of the city.
Shopping and shops
It seems to me that it makes no sense to describe separately each shopping center in Agra, since inside they are all a lot of shops with traditional products. No haste - the sellers will carefully give you tea, tell you about their product. So you can come here as a museum to look at the creations of local artisans. Be sure to bargain, I brought down the price as much as 10 times, despite the fact that I am far from a fan of long bargaining and persuasion.
- Akbar International (Address: 289 Fatehabad Road, Agra)
- Subhash Emporium (Address: 18/1 Gwalior Road | Opposite Telegraph Office, Agra)
- Oswal Arts Pvt. Ltd (Address: 30, Munro Road, Agra)
And of course local markets where you can try street food and buy souvenirs.
- Sadar Bazaar (Address: Sadar Bazaar Road, Agra)
- Old Bazar or Kinari Bazar (Address: Kinari Bazar, Agra)
Bars. Where to go
Not all even large establishments in Agra are licensed for alcohol. Do not count on the fact that every restaurant will be able to order an exquisite cocktail. I very often came across the fact that I had to give cash to the waiter so that he would get a bottle from under the floor (then it was not included in the check), or run to the nearest shop. Alcoholic shops are also not so easy to find - they are usually very inconspicuous. To find them, I had to ask a taxi driver to take them to the nearest store.
There are no bars as such in Agra, but large chain hotels always have restaurants with a bar counter. If you settled in a small guesthouse, look at the map for the nearest hotel with a worldwide reputation. I can only recommend the ones I've been to: Mughal, Downtown Club, Le Bar and Downing Street Bar. But they are not worth driving purposefully from the other end of the city.
Clubs and nightlife
There is no nightlife in the form of clubs and discos in Agra. Agra in this regard resembles a large village rather than a city. Take a small speaker with you on a trip to listen to music on the terrace.
extreme sports
The most real extreme can be called a walk through the streets of Agra, especially at night. But this, of course, is not a call to action. Various entertainments with elephants and snakes in Agra are also absent, for this exotic I advise you to go to. In Agra, an exceptionally measured cultural rest.
Souvenirs. What to bring as a gift
In India, wherever you buy, be sure to bargain. For Hindus, bargaining is like a special sport. Do it assertively but politely. Be sure to smile to let the seller know that you are interested in his product and ready to buy. It will be the height of disrespect if, as a result of bargaining, you don’t buy anything, you leave the shop gloomy and dissatisfied. Indians are very touchy, but they are happy to reduce the price by 5-7 times with a friendly approach of the buyer.
How to move around the city
Agra Central Station is the main and largest rickshaw and taxi rank. You will also find a prepayment counter there. 500 INR (8 USD) is calculated for 8 hours of transportation by auto rickshaw. This is the most budgetary and convenient way to get around the city.
After payment, you will be given a receipt with the number of your vehicle written on it. Do not lose it, or write down the number in the phone. After visiting the sights, it will not be so easy to find the rickshaw you need in a whole crowd of absolutely identical ones.
Taxi. What features exist
If you are flying into Agra, there are prepaid taxi stands at Kheria Airport. A trip to the city center will cost 5 USD (350 INR). You can also rent a car with a driver for the whole day. Or drive to the hotel and personally agree with the driver on a trip or rental for the next day. He must offer a price lower than at the prepaid counter.
I ordered a taxi at the Central Station, prices are slightly lower there. It is not convenient and not profitable to take a taxi for single short trips, they crowd for a long time on the narrow shops of Agra and often land before their destination due to the fact that they cannot pass.
In any hotel you can call a taxi, but always check the price in advance and if you pay at the reception, be sure to take a receipt for payment. Otherwise, with a high probability, the taxi driver after the trip will claim that he was not paid anything, and require you to pay again.
Buses
Regular buses in Agra are operated by the Uttar Pradesh state road company (UPSRTC). Bus routes connect the main historical and cultural attractions of Agra. You can find out the schedule and the bus route in Agra on the official website.
Transport rental
Measure 7 times and cut 1 time in the decision to rent a car. To be honest, I can't imagine how it is possible to drive around Agra on your own. The movement through the streets resembles Brownian, there are no rules. Even left-hand traffic is not fully respected everywhere. In addition, the streets in Agra are very narrow, livestock are constantly driven along them.
But if you are the most desperate traveler, the nearest rental offices of world representative offices are located in New Delhi, you can look at.
Agra - holidays with children
I would not recommend a holiday with small children in Agra. Despite all the wonderful sights, the city is considered the most polluted in all of India. Agra is the center of heavy industry, chemical and processing industries.
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The most visited Indian city by tourists is Agra. Its sights, squares and streets arouse admiration and delight even among those travelers who have seen many amazing and unusual places. Agra has a special grandeur, beauty and exoticism that fully reflect the culture of India.
Historical development
The city is located in the north of the country near the Jumna River. There is some evidence that it was built before our era, but the official date of foundation of Agra is considered to be 1504. There are early references to Agra in ancient Indian epics that have survived to this day. According to legend, Ptolemy gave the city its name. In ancient times, the city served as a fortress, and its prosperity fell on the seventeenth century, when the Mughals ruled India. During that era, Agra was the capital of the Mughal Empire, and its cultural development flourished. In the middle of the 18th century, militant neighboring peoples - Persians, Afghans, Jats - began to attack the city. By the end of the century, the capital was completely destroyed and devastated.
Then Agra was captured by the British, as a result of which the Indian rulers were expelled from its walls. However, it was under the rule of the British that the city began to develop actively, which made it a famous trading center in India. Thanks to the rule of the British, a railway, factories and factories were built in the city, and public transport appeared.
Modern Agra
Nowadays, the city of Agra is the center of industrial business and tourism. It is extremely attractive for travelers with its unique sights and ancient monuments. Trains run regularly through Agra, connecting the city with Mumbai and Delhi. A major tourist center full of its own flavor: the best way to get to know the city is to take a fascinating walk along the Mall Road.
On this street there are many shops that sell leather goods and handicrafts. You can also order a trip around the city in a taxi or hire an official guide. The guided tour lasts half a day and includes a visit to the famous Taj Mahal and the fort. Near each mosque and fortress, there are certainly various merchants who offer tourists a wide variety of different goods.
Many architectural monuments and shrines make Agra a unique Indian city. Main Attractions - The Taj Mahal and the fort reflect the fusion of different Indian cultures. The unique numerous palaces, tombs and memorials of India will impress any traveler.
Sights of Agra
Taj Mahal
A trip to India would not be complete without visiting the world-famous majestic Taj Mahal. India is famous for its architectural masterpieces, but the white marble Taj Mahal museum complex is the most famous all over the world. The construction of the legendary mausoleum began in the 17th century. About thirty types of precious stones and various ornaments were used to decorate the tomb. Taj Mahal is surrounded by picturesque gardens with pools and fountains. A special sight is the reflection of the memorial in the surrounding decorative ponds.
The memorial was built by order of the Indian Emperor Shah Jahan as a sacred memory of his beloved wife named Mahal. After his death, the emperor bequeathed to bury himself next to his wife. Today, their burial place is located in an underground crypt. The memorial is one of the most beautiful tombs in the world, which is a real masterpiece of Muslim and Indian architecture. This architectural monument is called "a tear on the cheek of eternity." Imperial love is forever imprinted in its snow-white inlaid walls.
The Taj Mahal is located in the heart of Agra. During full moons it is open for evening visits. The view of the majestic tomb under the full moon captivates the mind and allows you to fully enjoy the exoticism of the place. Night tickets can be purchased as early as 10 am. It is forbidden to smoke and eat on the territory of the complex, and all visitors are asked not to make noise in the walls of the tomb.
Agra fort
This fortress is located on one of the central hills of the city. This fort resembles the famous Red Fort in Delhi - its construction was conceived for fortification purposes. The defensive structure is made of red sandstone. The fortress resembles a whole city. Once upon a time there were ancient treasures of Indian sultans in it. During the attack of the Mughals, the fort of India was thoroughly destroyed, but in the 17th century, the Mughal emperor Akbar completely restored the fortress.
The restoration allowed the fort to become the way it now meets travelers - its walls are decorated with intricate ornaments and colorful mosaics. The walls of the fortress are reinforced with high towers, and the fort itself is built in the shape of a semicircle. The complex includes several buildings, a palace, a mosque, pavilions and a beautiful garden.
Tomb of Itimad ud Daula
The famous mausoleum of India is located in a beautiful garden with water channels. Its walls are made of marble and inlaid with various precious stones. The buildings of the complex are crowned with minarets. The tomb is rightly called the "jewel box". The memorial was intended for the Persian ruler, who was in exile, Mirza Beg.
The tomb is located on a small pedestal; its decoration includes Florentine mosaics, jasper, onyx, carnelian. From precious stones, paintings depicting vases with fruits and flowers are lined here.
Tomb of Akbar
Akbar the Great was the Mughal emperor. He reigned in the XVI-XVII centuries and was a worthy and revered ruler. His tomb is located in Sikandra, a small village near Agra. The tomb is made in a restrained style, but some of its details are luxurious. The mausoleum began to be erected during the lifetime of the ruler.
The tomb is a real masterpiece of Indian architecture. It is framed by huge gates, and a paved, wide road leads to the tomb itself. All buildings are made of red sandstone. Akbar's real burial place is in an underground crypt. Monkeys, antelopes, peacocks are found in the surrounding gardens of the memorial.
Mausoleum of Chini-ka-Rauza
This architectural and cultural monument is a historical site of India. The mausoleum was erected by order of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan for his minister. Initially, there was a large complex of various structures, but only the mausoleum has survived to this day. The building has a square shape and neat turrets. Inside is a large hall. The general architectural style of the tomb is quite modest and simple. However, some interesting elements of the structure reflect Persian architecture well. To decorate the arches of the mausoleum, bright colored ceramic tiles were used, which are folded into an interesting ornament.
Jama Masjid Mosque
The shrine is located near the Agra Fort and is surrounded by shops and shops. The mosque was built in the 17th century by Sultan Shah Jahan. Its top is crowned with marble domes with a unique carved pattern. The courtyard of the mosque in ancient times was completely destroyed by the British. The shrine has inscriptions from the Koran on the walls and inlays of precious stones. On Fridays, the mosque holds a service for Muslims. In the very center of the ancient shrine is a reservoir for ablutions. For the Muslim community, this mosque is of particular importance - priceless relics of the Prophet Muhammad are stored here.
Fatehpur Sikri
The history of the emergence of Faterpuh-Sikri is amazing. The city was built when the long-awaited heir was born to Emperor Akbar. In fifteen years, the capital of the Mughal empire grew on the slopes, but over time, the lack of water in it forced the inhabitants to leave the place.
Today, this ghost town has fortresses, palaces, parks and baths that have not been destroyed and have survived to this day. The buildings and structures of the city include original architectural elements and ornaments. Fatehpur Sikri has a huge scale and is built according to fairly clear rules. Palace buildings are made in a special style, which is close to Hinduism. At the entrance to the city there is a drum house, from its walls they announced the arrival of an important person. The mosques and the palace of the ghost town attract many tourists here. Here is the mausoleum of Salim Chishti and the five-story palace complex Rang Mahal.
Rambach garden
A luxurious garden five kilometers from the Taj Mahal amazes all its guests with its special beauty. The ancient garden was laid out by the Mughal Emperor Babur in the 16th century. The place is called the "garden of scattered light." According to Indian legend, the future emperor Akbar proposed to his wife at this place.
The entire garden is decorated in unique, vibrant Persian nuances. Abundant sunlight illuminates cozy gazebos, pavilions, sprawling plants and paved paths. In the center of the garden there are picturesque fountains and a pond. Water channels run from it in different directions. A luxurious Indian garden resembles a real paradise, through which crystal clear rivers flow. In ancient times, the garden was a favorite resting place for the emperor and his guests.
Agra is a city of art that has many majestic ancient monuments. Having visited this Indian city once, you can fully enjoy the exotic gardens of India, its temples, palaces and magnificent gardens. At the same time, Agra keeps up with the times - the city is known for its own jewelry, handicrafts, carpets and leather goods.
In the north of India, you will find the amazing beauty of the city - Agra. It is located on the banks of the Yamuna River. From 1528 to 1658 Agra was the capital of the Mughal Empire, and today the city attracts with the buildings of those days. They speak Hindi here, but Urdu and Punjabi are also spoken. Agra changed its rulers more than once. And in 1803 the city was captured by the British, under their leadership Agra became an important trading center with a developed industry.
Climate and weather
The climate of the city is humid tropical and characterized by hot weather. From April to July, daytime temperatures can be 40-46 °С, falling down at night 30 °С. But the monsoons are not as strong as in other cities in India.
The time of the greatest precipitation is from June to September. And it is better to go there in the winter, because during this period it is warm and sunny there.
Nature
Agra is truly one of the most beautiful cities in India. Since it is located in the northern part of the country, here you will not see golden sandy beaches and ocean waves, but this does not prevent the city from being charmingly beautiful.
Perhaps its attraction lies in the ancient buildings of the times of the Mughal Empire and their most beautiful pearl - the Taj Mahal. Majestic and beautiful, it attracted more than one thousand tourists. No wonder it is recognized as a new wonder of the world.
Attractions
In Agra you will see Taj Mahal(1632-1650 c.). In 2007, it was recognized as the Seventh Wonder of the World of Modernity, it is a real pearl of India, a monument of great love and unique beauty of architecture. will meet you Agra Fort- majestic and powerful. It includes a large complex of palaces, gardens, squares, mosques.
Unusually decorated marble building of the tomb Itemad-ud-Dauly will endow you with its gentle beauty, and the Garden of Eden rambach will amaze with beauty. What can I say, there really is something to see in Agra.
Food
Both a snack and a hearty meal here will not be difficult for you. There are many different places in Agra where they sell food. If you want to grab a bite to eat, head to the smaller bars and cafes. If you prefer lunch in an inexpensive restaurant, then at your service will be Garden View Restaurant and Only Restaurant where you will be served Indian, Italian and Mexican cuisine.
French cuisine, as well as Indian and continental food, you can taste in Novotel Brasserie. The Mongolian restaurant Nauratna will also serve you at the highest level.
Accommodation
Hotels in Agra are distinguished by their comfort and beauty, and the staff - by hospitality. Cheap three-star hotels Amar Yatri Niwas, Utkarsh Vilas, Pushp Villa located one kilometer from Taj Mahal, a Howard Park Plaza, Marina, Clark Shiraz, higher class, located in the heart of Agra. Fashionable Oberoi Amarvilas will satisfy the most demanding guest.
Entertainment and recreation
After seeing the many sights, relax in one of the Agra Gardens or visit the spa. Elephant safari and the search for Bengal tigers will delight you with vivid impressions. In addition, hotels offer tourists a wide range of entertainment, including Indian dances.
In the evenings in the garden by the restaurant Taj Khema, located opposite the Taj Mahal, hold musical performances with folk dances. Be sure to visit the art gallery Agra Art Gallery.
Purchases
In this city you will not find a wide variety of shops, but do not be upset. Known among tourists Kinari Bazaar. At this bazaar you can buy literally everything: shoes, clothes, spices, marble, jewelry. The population of Agra is famous for its artisans, the most common of the crafts is carving and inlay on marble.
Souvenirs made of red sandstone are in demand, especially a small copy of the Taj Mahal. When buying, you can bargain until the price drops by 30%.
Transport
There is no metro in Agra. Therefore, all trips will have to be made by bus or train. Agra is connected to other cities by many road, rail and air routes.
The cheapest way to travel is by bus. The cost of air and rail transport is approximately equal.
Connection
Agra has a well-developed network of telephone lines. You can call anywhere in the world. You can also use a mobile phone by purchasing in advance SIM card. Postal services are well developed. Internet cafes provide inexpensive and fast internet.
Safety
Being in Agra, you need to remember the special religiosity of its inhabitants. Women should be dressed in long closed clothes. Short skirts and sweatshirts are strictly prohibited. When entering holy places, women must cover their heads with a scarf. You can not make noise, for this you can be kicked out. It is not customary to swear publicly. In case of severe alcohol intoxication, it is better not to go out, especially in the central regions.
Business climate
At present, Agra is a very large transport hub, as well as a center of light industry (leather and footwear, cotton spinning, cotton), food industry, and metalworking. Has its own university.
Handicrafts are developing: the production of jewelry, various creations from marble and red sandstone.
When making excursions around Agra, it is worth listening to the advice of guides and people who have already been in the city. Be careful while walking around the market. Beware of the old wooden balconies that overhang some of the storefronts. Keep an eye on the road as you may even encounter cattle along the way.
India is an impressive country that surprises with its culture, architecture and vast historical heritage. Among all its treasures, the city of Agra deserves special attention. A place that has preserved the magnificent architecture of the times of the Great Moghuls, a city shrouded in a dense network of narrow streets, where it is so easy for an inquisitive tourist to get lost. People come here, first of all, to admire one of the wonders of the world - the majestic Taj Mahal and see the fortress walls of the ancient fort, but life in Agra itself is already quite an interesting sight, where contrasts typical of India are clearly manifested: blocks of luxury and amazing beauty is replaced by slums, and magnificent architectural masterpieces are sometimes hidden behind a haze of industrial smog.
Historians believe that settlements existed on the site of Agra even before our era, but the official foundation took place at the beginning of the 15th century. Agra was not just a province, but the capital of the Mughal Empire, their cultural and political center. The flourishing time already in the 17th century was replaced by decline, however, as soon as the British began to take over the city, it began to actively develop again, becoming one of the largest commercial and industrial centers in India. Even today, hundreds of enterprises and factories operate here, which, alas, does not have a very positive effect on the environment. In the 21st century, the city was talked about as a tourist pearl, it is no coincidence that it entered the "Golden Triangle of India", along with Delhi and Jakarta.
It is worth coming to Agra just to get acquainted with one of the most fantastic monuments of antiquity - the Taj Mahal. No photographs and even the most detailed reviews are able to convey its beauty and majesty, so the palace annually becomes an incentive for tourists from all over the world. No less impressive is the Fort and the Mongolian city of Fatehpur Sikri. You can’t ignore the non-tourist life of Agra, walk through its usual working quarters, see with your own eyes how modern Indians live, get acquainted with the culture of the townspeople and be sure to visit one of the national holidays with indispensable dances, songs and fragrant food.
Taj Mahal
A symbol of eternal love, the Taj Mahal in Agra is a unique blend of Persian, Indian and Islamic architecture. It is no coincidence that it is considered the hallmark of India and one of the most visited places in the world. The stunning beauty of the structure was erected by order of Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, who died during the fourteenth birth. The ruler loved his wife so much that after her death he himself was on the verge of suicide. He decided to perpetuate her image by burying her body in a mausoleum, the most beautiful of which is not in the world.
The architectural complex consists of the main mausoleum, four minarets along the edges, a park with fountains and a pond, where marble walls beautifully reflect. For the construction, the best materials were used, precious stones, gilding, and the base of the building was built from a unique marble that can change its color. The Taj Mahal took 22 years to build and houses Jahan's wife, his concubines, servants and himself. Today it is one of the seven new wonders of the world and a monument that is specially protected by UNESCO.
Agra fort
Not far from the Taj Mahal, another magnificent reminder of the Mughal Empire flaunts - the Agra Fort, which is also called the Red Fort. Its construction started in 1565, when Agra turned into a capital city. The main purpose, of course, was defensive - it is no coincidence that the fortress is surrounded by twenty-meter walls, behind which there were impenetrable jungles with tigers and a ditch with crocodiles. For opponents, such a fortification was almost impregnable, thanks to which the empire only grew and grew richer.
The fort itself is a whole town - it has a mosque, vineyards, swimming pools, the emperor's palace, tombs, barracks and much more. During the reign of Emperor Akbar, who started building the fort, its walls were built of red sandstone. His son continued the construction of white marble, and his grandson added bastions to the architecture of the fortress.
Today, this witness of five centuries continues to amaze with its scale and beauty - tourists are not allowed into some parts of it, but even an external inspection will be a real pleasure.
Tomb of Akbar the Great
The Mughal emperor Akbar went down in history as one of the greatest leaders - under his rule, science and culture developed, the living conditions of ordinary citizens improved significantly, a competent foreign and domestic policy was conducted, and it is no coincidence that they do not forget about him to this day. A real masterpiece was the tomb of Akbar, the construction of which was begun by him long before his death. The tomb is located near the city, it is a stunningly beautiful three-story building made of red sandstone, inlaid with white marble with precious stones and intricate ornaments. There is a park around the tomb, divided into four zones, which symbolize the stages of human life. In the center of the mausoleum is a sarcophagus, but the body of the emperor and his wife are buried deep underground.
Interestingly, the minarets erected around the tomb became the prototypes of those that adorn the Taj Mahal, and the dome, which usually crowns Mughal structures, was never erected.
Fatehpur Sikri
Not far from Agra is one of the dead cities of the Mughal Empire - Fatehpur Sikri. According to legend, Emperor Akbar the Great ordered to build it at the place where he was predicted to have three sons in the near future. As soon as the heirs were really born, the emperor moved the capital to a new city - it was built in two decades, however, it lasted a little more - only 16 years. Despite his extensive knowledge, Akbar unsuccessfully chose a place for the new capital and soon left it along with all the inhabitants due to the lack of sufficient water.
Nevertheless, the city did not turn into dust, but was well preserved. Almost all of its buildings are made of red sandstone and marble, Indian and Islamic styles are mixed in architecture, even fine carvings and paintings have survived to this day, so a trip to Fatehpur Sikri is truly an immersion in the history and culture of one of the greatest empires of the past.
Old market "Kinari Bazaar"
On the territory of Agra, the old market has become an interesting attraction - a place where they have been selling a variety of goods for more than several centuries. The bazaar is an interweaving of streets, in each of which a certain type of goods is traded. However, not only shopping attracts tourists here - it is on the market that you can feel a truly Indian flavor: here you can bargain, buy unique handicrafts, jewelry, original souvenirs for a pittance, and just watch the lively trade, which in itself is one part of the Indian way of life.
Leisure
Agra is a city worth visiting not only for lovers of historical monuments, but also for connoisseurs of Indian culture in general. You can watch traditional theatrical performances, visit exhibitions of artists and handicrafts, watch a dance and song concert and much more at the Kalakriti Cultural Center.
For those who are used to trying all the most unusual, an elephant riding safari tour will leave an unforgettable impression, and acquaintance with the world of Indian bazaars can be compared with a fascinating excursion.
An analogue of the European and Brazilian carnival in India was the Taj Mahotsav holiday, which takes place annually in late February - early March in Agra. It starts at the walls of the Taj Mahal, and passes through the streets of the city in a bright noisy procession. Traditionally, elephants walk proudly in front, the parade includes artisans, singers, dancers, ordinary citizens, each of whom contributes to Indian culture. For foreigners, Taj Mahostav is the Indian tradition in its purest form, the opportunity to purchase the most unusual souvenirs, hear national music and, of course, try Indian cuisine.
How to get there
Most tourists enter Agra through the Indian capital, Delhi. There are several main ways to get to Agra from Delhi. Agra is also connected by a road network and railway lines with the neighboring cities of Jaipur, Mathura, Vrindavan and Fatehpur Sikri.
Agra Airport (also known as Kheria Air Force Station) is connected to Delhi and Mumbai and several other cities in India by local airlines. However, due to the seasonal nature and high cost of such flights, this method of getting from Delhi or Mumbai to Agra is not popular. Most travelers use trains or intercity buses for this.
Agra is an important interchange station on the popular Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Chennai rail routes. Over 20 trains run from Delhi to Agra daily. Travel time is from 2 to 5 hours. Between Delhi and Agra, many regular and private tourist buses run daily. This is the second most popular way to get to Agra after rail transport. Travel time is 4-5 hours. The fare on a comfortable air-conditioned bus between Agra and Delhi is in the range of 400-1000 rupees. The final points of most bus routes to Agra are 2 central city bus stations - Idgah Bus Station and Inter State Bus Terminal (ISBT).
local transport
Agra has a well-established public transport and taxi system that allows easy access to the Taj Mahal and neighboring cities.
Regular buses in Agra are operated by the Uttar Pradesh state road company (UPSRTC). Bus routes connect the main historical and cultural attractions of Agra. You can find out the timetable and bus schedule in Agra on the official UPSRTC website.
Taxi
Taxi can be easily caught in the central part of Agra or called from your hotel. Alternative types of taxis in Agra are bicycle and motor rickshaws, as well as tongas - exotic-looking two-wheeled carts pulled by mules or camels.
Most taxis in Agra are not equipped with a meter, so before you get into the car, you need to clearly stipulate the fare, remembering to bargain.
For an express tour of Agra and the surrounding area, you can order a taxi with a driver for one day. On average, a day of taxi rental with a driver in Agra costs from 1200 rupees.
Many taxi drivers in Agra either don't speak English well or don't speak English at all, so be sure to bring a map with you, which will indicate the purpose of your trip.
Hotels
Luxury worthy of great emperors awaits you at the Gateway Fatehabad Agra, located opposite the famous Taj Mahal, in the shade of landscaped gardens. It offers elegant rooms with white marble interiors, a swimming pool and the opportunity to admire one of the wonders of the world around the clock.
The hotel in the historic medieval quarter of the Grand Imperial is the perfect solution for connoisseurs of color. Interiors with antique furniture and rich fabrics are combined with modern amenities that will not disappoint even the pickiest of guests.
One of the popular forms of accommodation in Agra are guest houses. One of them, Mohini Home Stay, guarantees round-the-clock accommodation, guide services, parking, internet and many nice bonuses.
Restaurants
The hotel's Dasaprakash Restaurant serves delicious Indian food for vegetarians. Always fresh dishes, a huge assortment of fruits, vegetables, and moderate use of spices make the restaurant an excellent place to get acquainted with the culinary traditions of India.
Low prices with quality service await at the PAATRA restaurant - the basis of the menu here is European cuisine, so you can safely look here for those who are not fans of spicy Indian cuisine. You can dine outdoors at the Green Park restaurant - hospitable hosts are always ready to offer their guests fresh dishes and Indian hospitality.
shopping
Indian shopping is difficult to put into words - it is a whole art, which has its own rules. Going to traditional markets, feel free to bargain, offering a price 7 times lower than the announced one, and under no circumstances agree to buy something at the initial price.
Agra is a tourist and industrial city, so there are few large shopping centers here, bazaars and souvenir shops prevail. Particularly popular for shopaholics are the areas around the Taj Mahal and the old Kinari Bazaar. Here you will see hundreds of gift options - silk and cashmere products, Indian spices, crafts carved in wood and marble, saris, carpets and much more.
The city of Agra is a treasure trove and one of the main tourist centers in Northern India. Agra stretches along the banks of the Yamuna River in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Agra was founded at the beginning of the 16th century. and served as the capital of the Mughal Empire for the first thirty years. With a population of over 1.5 million people, Agra is the third largest city in Uttar Pradesh. The "pearl" of the Agra collection is the Taj Mahal mausoleum, which was under the care of the UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. This temple is considered the world's best example of the architecture of the great Mughal Empire. The Mughal ruler Shah Jahān built it for his wife Mumtāz Maḥal in the middle of the 17th century. The Agra Fortress (16th century), called the Red Fort for its massive red sandstone walls, was built by Emperor Akbar. The fortress contains the Pearl Mosque (Moti Masjid; 17th century), built of snow-white marble, and the Jahangiri Mahal Palace.
When to go to Agra
Summer season in Agra is from April to July. This is the least favorable time to visit an Indian city, as unbearable heat and sweltering heat sets in. During the summer period, prices for hotels and inns are the lowest, and there are profitable offers. If you decide to go to Agra in the summer, be sure to bring light cotton clothes with long sleeves and stock up on sunscreen. Monsoon season from August to October. Although the rainy season brings freshness with it and the air temperature drops significantly, clogged and slushy roads can spoil your mood and prevent you from visiting some tourist destinations. To better enjoy the monsoon season, it is recommended that you always carry an umbrella or a raincoat with you, as well as a good mood. The winter season starts in October and lasts until about March. This is the best time to visit the historic city. Pleasant weather and cool breeze will make your stay in India comfortable. However, winter is the peak tourist season and prices for hotels and restaurants are skyrocketing. It gets quite cold in January so bring warm clothes. For information: During the World Cultural Heritage Week, admission to the main tourist sites in Agra is free.How to get to Agra
There is no direct route from Russian cities to Agra. You can get to the city from Delhi or Mumbai with a transfer to Varanasi by local airlines, the flight will take no more than 2.5 hours. Please note that punctuality and accuracy in the schedule in Agra, as in all of India, is conditionally observed. Very often, flights are delayed, so leave the connection time between flights with a margin of at least 6 hours. Also from Delhi to Agra can be reached by intercity bus on Highway No. 2, and Highway No. 3 connects Agra with Jaipur.Transport in Agra
From Kheria airport and Agra Cantt railway station to the main attractions of the city no more than 10 km. At the airport there are stands with "pre-pied" taxis (government taxis with fixed prices). For example, you can get to the Taj Mahal by taxi or rickshaw in 15 minutes. The fare does not exceed 300 rupees.What to see and visit
The main mosque is under the auspices of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The grandiose mausoleum is more than 350 years old, its construction was started in the 17th century and completed in 22 years. More than 20,000 workers worked hard at the facility. The history of construction and the idea of creating the mausoleum belongs to the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan V in memory of his beloved wife and life partner Mumtaz Mahal. She died after giving birth to 14 children and was buried in Agra near the Yamuna River. After two years of his suffering for his dead wife, the emperor built a mausoleum-mosque in memory of his great and devoted love. On the territory there is the Taj Museum, which contains the main exhibits related to the history and construction of the famous Taj Mahal. Every year, the Taj Mahal is visited by 3 to 5 million tourists. The mosque is open every day from 6 am to 7 pm, but is closed on Fridays, and is also restricted to visitors during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Also, two days before and two days after the full moon (including the day of the full moon itself), the Mausoleum is allowed on an evening tour. Tickets are sold at least a day in advance. These days the Mausoleum opens at 20.30 and closes at 00.30, they are allowed in small groups for 30 minutes. Entrance to the territory of the complex is allowed only by cycle rickshaws or electric vehicles. When buying a ticket, visitors are given shoe covers. Then, at the inspection of personal belongings, the line is divided into men's and women's. Only 0.5 liters can be brought into the complex. water, passport, money, phone and video camera. The rest of the things must be left in the storage room (100 rupees). Then the queue is divided into foreigners and Indians. Everyone is supposed to take off their shoes, but tourists can put on shoe covers. Entrance: 1000 rupees, you can enter from the South, West (the main entrance and the longest lines are here), East Gate. The Western Gate is the first to open, the South Gate is the last to open, the ticket office opens the same way as the gate. It is better to come early in the morning. Photo and video shooting inside the mausoleum is prohibited. A separate ticket office is open for foreign tourists. For information: every evening (except for the season from May to August) on the territory of the cultural center Kalakriti (Kalakriti) there is a theatrical show "Mohabbat The Taj" about the history of the creation of the Mausoleum and the love of the ruler Shah Jahan and his third wife Mumtaz. Entrance: from 1 thousand to 4 thousand rupees. The show is in Hindi, and foreign tourists are given headphones with an audio guide. Agra Fort is a real treasure trove of Mughal architectural tradition. The various buildings in this sprawling fort complex brought together a unified image from various cultures that was a hallmark of the Mughal period. Akbar, one of the great emperors of the Mughal Empire, began building a defensive fortress from local sandstone on the river in 1565. During the same period, the construction of Humayun's tomb in Delhi was underway. The construction of the Fort was completed in 1571 and Akbar moved the capital from Delhi to Agra.
Most of the buildings in the Agra Fort are built in different architectural and religious styles, which gives a special look to the buildings inside the Fort. Thus, the Jahangiri Palace was built in Islamic (Persian) intertwined with the local Hindu style. The rest of the buildings are predominantly Islamic architecture or have a mixed hue. The colossal defensive wall of the fort rises to 21 m in height, and outside the fort is surrounded by a cliff, in which crocodiles lived during the fighting. The fort contains magnificent palaces of both red sandstone and white marble, erected by several generations of prolific builders, Akbar and later Jahangir and Shahjahan. Several structures have been built on the territory of the Fort, where you can also enter with a single ticket: - Jahangir Mahal Palace was the main palace for all women belonging to the royal family.
- The octagonal tower Musamman Burj is the most romantic, ornamental pavilion in which two beautiful and powerful Mughal queens lived - Nurjahan (the main queen of Jahangir) and Mumtaz Mahal (the main queen of Shahjahan).
- The private audience hall or the Divan-i-Khas reception hall was built by Shahjahan in 1636-37. It is a small hall with double marble columns. Here the Mughal emperor received important dignitaries or foreign ambassadors. On the terrace in front of this hall there are two marble thrones, and on the other side there is a small mosque built for Shahjahan.
- Diwan-i-Am public audience hall, where Shahjahana met with officials and commoners and listened to petitions. Further north is the Moti Masjid, a pearl mosque with three white marble domes.
- Palace of Mariam-uz-Zamani (Maryamuzzamani Palace) for the third wife of the ruler Akbar.
- Mirror Palace Sheesh Mahal.
The tomb of Itmad-ud-Daula is as interesting as the life of the person for whom it was built. Mirza Giyas-ud-Din or Giyas Beg (later known as Itmad-ud-Daula) was a poor merchant and lived in Persia (modern Iran). On the way to India on business, his wife gave birth to a girl, but since the family was extremely poor, the parents decided to keep the child. But the cries of the baby made her parents come back and take her with them. The girl brought good luck to her parents: on the way to the house, Giyas-beg found a caravan that immediately took him to the court of the Great Mughal Emperor Akbar. Over time, Giyas Bek became a minister and a reliable treasurer at Akbar's court. Giyas Beg was also awarded the title of Itmad-ud-Daula or Pillar of the State. Entrance: 210 rupees, you must remove your shoes or put on shoe covers before entering. Akbar's tomb on the outskirts of Agra in the town of Sikander is an excellent example of a wedding of various styles: Islam, Hinduism and Christianity. Before his death in 1605, Akbar began the construction of a magnificent building at Sikandra, which was later completed by his son Jahangir. The tomb stands in a walled garden on the Delhi-Agra road and is entered through an elegant south gate that leads into a huge enclosed garden. It is noteworthy that tame deer and antelopes live in the garden, and peacocks can also be found here. In the mausoleum itself there are three tombs - Akbar and his two daughters. 
Opening hours: every day from 10.00 to 18.00, except Friday. Entrance 210 rupees. For information: in Bollywood, a film was made of the life and love of the emperor "Jodha and Akbar" with Aishwarya Rai in the lead roles. Dayal Bagh Memorial
15 km from Agra is the Dayal Bagh Memorial, built in honor of the preacher of the Society for Krishna Consciousness Radhanath Swami. The construction of this complex lasts for more than a hundred years and is still ongoing. The main building here is a magnificent tall building built of pure white marble. Each element of the building is decorated with unique hand-carved elements. The dome is not yet ready, but four minarets are already rising on the sides. The entrance to the building is preceded by a main staircase, the first floor under which is decorated with dozens of arches. The building is surrounded by a marble ravine, inside which are the jets of the fountain. This pompous building resembles a wedding cake.City of Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri was founded in the 16th century. ruler Akbar as a gift for the birth of a boy and for a short time remained the capital of India. Akbar dreamed that this city would become a place of residence for people of all religions and different faiths. But his dream was not destined to come true, and due to drought and lack of water, his family left this area. Therefore, another name for the city is "the city of the dead." Currently, local Indians live in Sikri, and the residence of the emperor has become a tourist attraction.Jama Masjid Mosque
Jama Masjid Mosque (Jama Masjid) was erected by Shah in honor of the birth of his daughter in 1648. About 5 thousand people participated in the construction of the mosque over 6 years. A similar complex was created in Delhi and is considered one of the largest mosques in India.Where to stay
There are more than ten 5* hotels in Agra, eight 4* hotels, just over 50 three-star hotels, more than 60 options for guest houses and mini-hotels. The best 5* hotels in Agra are: 1. Radisson Blu Agra Taj East Gate 5*. The hotel is just 1.8 km from the Taj Mahal, which offers stunning views from the hotel's rooftop pool. One night at the beginning of the season will cost guests from 7 to 15 thousand rubles. A room of the "super suite" category with a view of the Taj Mahal - from 23 thousand rubles. 2. Located 1.5 km from the Taj Mahal, there are smoking and non-smoking rooms. One night in October here will cost from 9 thousand rubles. without breakfast.
- TheGatewayHotelFatehabad5* a cozy hotel located in the garden, three kilometers from the Taj Mahal. A standard double room with breakfast at the beginning of the season will cost from 7 thousand rubles. per day.
- ITCMughalALuxuryCollectionHotelAgra 5* - a luxurious complex on the territory of more than 14 hectares, three kilometers from the Taj Mahal. Double room - from 7,000 rubles per day with breakfast.
- double treebyHilton 5* located 4.5 km from the Taj Mahal. Simple interior design and restrained tones of rooms, a wellness center on site and an outdoor pool. A day in a double room - from 5 to 8 thousand rubles.
