When most travelers think of Agra, the Taj Mahal is the first place that comes to mind. But while the Taj is undoubtedly Agra’s most famous attraction, the city holds many other historical and cultural gems that deserve your time.
Agra was once the heart of the Mughal Empire, and its legacy can still be seen in the forts, tombs, gardens, and monuments scattered across the city and its outskirts. If you’re planning a visit and want to explore more than just the Taj Mahal, here’s a list of the top 10 places in Agra that offer a deeper look into the city’s rich past.
1. Agra Fort
Distance from Taj Mahal: 2.5 km
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Agra Fort is a massive 16th-century fortress built by Emperor Akbar. Enclosed within its red sandstone walls are palaces, courtyards, and halls that tell the story of several generations of Mughal emperors.
Don’t Miss: Jahangiri Mahal, Diwan-i-Am, and the view of the Taj Mahal from Musamman Burj.
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50 (Indians), ₹650 (foreigners)
2. Mehtab Bagh
Best time to visit: Sunset
Located across the Yamuna River, Mehtab Bagh offers stunning views of the Taj Mahal, especially during sunrise or sunset. This 25-acre garden was designed as the Taj’s “moonlight garden” and is perfect for quiet photography and nature walks.
Why visit: Fewer crowds and a postcard-perfect view of the Taj Mahal from a unique angle.
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
Entry Fee: ₹25 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners)
3. Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb
Nickname: “Baby Taj”
Built before the Taj Mahal, this white marble tomb is the resting place of Mirza Ghiyas Beg, the grandfather of Mumtaz Mahal. Its fine carvings, delicate inlay work, and symmetrical gardens are early examples of Mughal design that later influenced the Taj.
What to notice: The lattice screens (jalis) and floral marble patterns.
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹35 (Indians), ₹310 (foreigners)
4. Akbar’s Tomb (Sikandra)
Location: About 10 km from central Agra
This vast, peaceful complex is the final resting place of Emperor Akbar. Built during his lifetime, the tomb combines Hindu, Islamic, and Jain elements — reflecting Akbar’s vision of religious harmony.
Highlight: The majestic gateway and quiet, deer-filled gardens.
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹30 (Indians), ₹310 (foreigners)
5. Chini Ka Rauza
Specialty: Persian-influenced tile work
This little-known tomb is dedicated to Afzal Khan, a poet and minister in Shah Jahan’s court. It’s one of the earliest examples of glazed tile decoration in India, showcasing vivid colors and Persian motifs.
Why it’s special: Unique architecture and peaceful riverfront setting.
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
Entry Fee: Free
6. Jama Masjid, Agra
Built by: Shah Jahan, in honor of his daughter Jahanara Begum
Located opposite Agra Fort, this grand mosque features red sandstone walls, marble inlay, and elegant domes. It’s still an active mosque and offers a glimpse into the spiritual side of Mughal India.
Good to know: Visitors should dress modestly and remove shoes before entering.
Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
7. Fatehpur Sikri
Distance from Agra: 40 km (1 hour drive)
Once the Mughal capital under Akbar, Fatehpur Sikri is now a ghost city of grand palaces, gateways, and courtyards. Abandoned due to water shortages, it remains a remarkably well-preserved complex.
Key spots: Buland Darwaza, Panch Mahal, and the Tomb of Salim Chishti.
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹40 (Indians), ₹610 (foreigners)
8. Anguri Bagh
Meaning: “Grape Garden”
Located within Agra Fort, this Mughal garden was used by royal women and is designed in geometric patterns. Once known for its grape vines and aromatic plants, it’s now a quiet space with elegant design.
Good for: A quick stop during your Agra Fort visit.
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Included in Agra Fort ticket
9. Guru Ka Tal
Type: Sikh pilgrimage site
A lesser-known attraction, Guru Ka Tal is a beautifully designed Gurudwara near Sikandra. It marks the site where Guru Tegh Bahadur offered himself for arrest during Aurangzeb’s reign.
Why visit: Spiritual significance and Mughal-style architecture.
Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
10. Taj Nature Walk
Perfect for: Nature lovers and photographers
Spread across 70 hectares, this eco-park near the Taj Mahal has walking trails, birdwatching spots, and scenic viewpoints. It offers panoramic views of the Taj from natural surroundings — a rare, quiet escape close to the city.
Best time to go: Early morning or just before sunset
Timings: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20 (Indians), ₹100 (foreigners)
Final Thoughts
While the Taj Mahal is reason enough to visit Agra, these lesser-known attractions bring depth and diversity to your journey. They highlight different facets of Mughal history — from architecture and art to faith and everyday life.
For a complete experience, plan to spend at least two days in Agra. Explore the forts, tombs, gardens, and spiritual sites that make this city much more than just the home of one famous monument. You’ll walk away with a fuller, more textured understanding of its heritage.