1. Taj Mahal:
- The Taj Mahal is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. It's a white marble mausoleum built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of love and beauty.
2. Agra Fort:
- Agra Fort, also known as the Red Fort of Agra, is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors and is known for its impressive architecture and beautiful gardens.
3. Fatehpur Sikri:
- Located just 40 kilometers from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is a historical city founded by Emperor Akbar. It's home to well-preserved Mughal architectural wonders, including the Jama Masjid and the Buland Darwaza.
4. Mehtab Bagh:
- Mehtab Bagh, or the Moonlight Garden, is situated across the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal. It offers a beautiful view of the Taj Mahal, especially during sunset.
5. Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb:
- Often referred to as the "Baby Taj," this tomb is considered a draft of the Taj Mahal and is known for its intricate marble inlay work.
6. Chini Ka Rauza:
- This tomb is a fine example of Persian architecture and is known for its blue tile work. It's dedicated to Allama Afzal Khan Mullah, a scholar and poet.
7. Sikandra:
- Sikandra is the final resting place of Emperor Akbar. The tomb is a blend of Hindu, Islamic, and Persian architectural styles.
8. Kinari Bazaar:
- This bustling market is known for its intricate zari and zardozi embroidery work, leather goods, and jewelry. It's a great place to shop for souvenirs.
9. Mughal Heritage Walk:
- Take a guided heritage walk to explore the lesser-known Mughal monuments and experience local culture and cuisine.
10. Street Food:
- Agra is famous for its street food, including petha (a sweet made from ash gourd), chaat, and paratha. Don't miss the local delicacies.
11. Shopping:
- Agra is known for its marble and stone inlay work. You can buy marble souvenirs, jewelry, and textiles in the local markets.
12. Wildlife SOS Elephant Sanctuary:
- This sanctuary provides a home for rescued elephants and is an excellent place to learn about these majestic animals.
13. Taj Mahotsav:
- If you visit in February, you can witness the Taj Mahotsav, a ten-day cultural festival celebrating arts, crafts, and music.
Agra's history, culture, and stunning architecture make it a must-visit destination for travelers. The city is well-connected by road, rail, and air, with Agra's Kheria Airport serving domestic flights. When visiting Agra, make sure to respect local customs and preserve the historical and cultural heritage of this magnificent city.