ShashwatPlanning a weekend getaway with friends or family to the enchanting city of Agra while having just one day in hand?
This article is here just for you! Here, we discuss the best places to visit in Agra in 1 Day: while exploring its rich history, awe-inspiring architecture and mouth-watering culinary delights.
An Agra journey promises to be one which you’d remember always – be it for a long weekend, or just one day.
Get ready with your best summer clothing as we delve into our ride through the most interesting places to visit and things to do in this city of the Taj in 12 hours time (we take the day from when you arrived here in the morning, till the night rises over the horizon).
Table of Contents
Taj Mahal: The Crown Jewel of Agra | 12 Hours Remaining
The first and foremost places to visit in Agra in 1 Day has to be the monument that the city is popular throughout the world for – the monument made with love – or maybe even the most controversial seven wonders in recent times: The Taj Mahal.
Now we know the tale of its origin, right? You must have heard it a million times now. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz, the Taj Mahal is an architectural gem made with brilliance and fascinating marbles from different corners of the world.
The palace has lush green gardens on both sides with a reflecting pool filled with small fountains right in the middle – creating an ambiance filled with magic and wonders.
Ever since you take your first steps through the giant entrance gate towards the monument and witness it for the first time – you feel it. The magic. The history. The love. And so much more.
All it takes is one simple glimpse as you walk past hundreds of people, from different generations, different regions and different languages – all getting together to witness the wonder in all its glory.
Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful buildings in the world, Taj Mahal is made entirely with white marble and features exquisite carvings, intricate inlays & stunning domes.
Agra Fort: Witness to Centuries of History | 10 Hours Remaining
Next on our list of places to visit in Agra in 1 day with family or friends, is none other than the UNESCO World Heritage Site constructed under the reign of Emperor Akbar, in the 16th century: the Agra Fort!
Made with fascinating red sandstone architecture, this marvelous place is rich with history and stories and amazing photogenic spots located within its gates.
You can witness the Taj from the many viewpoints and window-carvings from different regions of the Fort. With a guide by your side, you can even learn more about the different areas around the Fort, the stories and legends related to the site and what all conspired in the 16th Century during the Mughal era.
All those stories of Jodhaa & Akbar, the many scenarios and generations that the Fort has witnessed – from the reign of Akbar, his son Jahangir, his son Shah Jahan and how it all came to an end with Aurangzeb turning the mystical structure into a place filled with darkness as the previous emperor cried his heart out as he watched over the structure he got built for his beloved’s grave.
Notable structures within the fort:
The Jahangir Palace
The Jahangir Palace stands as a mesmerizing example of the Persian-style architecture, with its ornate balconies, intricate carvings and the exquisite stone inlays.
The Khas Mahal
The Private Palace or the Khas Mahal in the Agra Fort is another impressive structure which was the residence of the royals and is now known for its marble pavilions & decorative arches.
Diwan-i-Am
Diwan-i-Am or the Hall of Public Audience is an open-air pavilion where Shah Jahan addressed the public and heard their worries. It was a place where common people would come seeking justice. It reminds visitors of the Mughal era’s emphasis on justice & administration.
Diwan-i-Khas
Lastly, the Hall of Private Audience of the Diwan-i-Khas is this area filled with an elegant ambiance. Here, the emperor would hold private meetings & welcome important dignitaries. You can immerse yourself in the beautiful carvings, precious stones & a stunning marble throne called the Peacock Throne.
A treasure trove of tales waiting to be discovered, Agra Fort offers more than just the most outstanding interiors and structural designs to its visitors. It offers a glimpse into our history books in the most practical manner possible. And that alone makes it a worthy spot in our list of the best places to visit in Agra in 1 day.
Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah: A Miniature Taj Mahal | 08 Hours Remaining
Often referred as the Baby Taj or Mini Taj Mahal, the tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah is a hidden gem in this historic city and is one of the most interesting places to visit in Agra for couples, families and friends.
Built somewhere in between 1622 and 1628, this magnificent mausoleum if often referred to as an early draft of the Taj Mahal due to the exquisite design and intricate craftsmanship.
It was actually commissioned by Nur Jahan, wife of Emperor Jahangir, in honor of her father, Mirza Ghiyas Beg or Itimad-ud-Daulah, a prominent nobleman and Chief Minister of the Mughal court in the period.
You will find it to be somewhat of an exact replica of the Taj, with delicate marble lattice screens, intricate inlay work and beautiful Persian-inspired gardens.
Visiting the miniature Taj Mahal takes you on a journey back in time to the Mughal era. It gives you a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of India and the architectural genius of the period.
The moment you enter the premises of the tomb, you are greeted with beautiful frescoes that cover its walls and ceilings. They depict various stories of this era and motifs from the art of the Persians and Mughals.
The intricate craftsmanship, the detailed carvings & the beautiful paintings all come together to create a sense of awe and wonder.
Mehtab Bagh: A Hidden Gem with a Taj View | 06 Hours Remaining
For a unique perspective of the Taj Mahal, head to Mehtab Bagh. This serene garden offers a postcard-worthy view of the Taj across the Yamuna River.
Want to experience Taj Mahal in a different light, from maybe a different perspective? Visit the Mehtab Bagh, also known as the Moonlight Garden.
This splendid garden complex situated on the banks of the Yamuna river, boasts its picturesque environment and the perfect location to witness the breathtaking views of the iconic monument.
Originally built by Emperor Babur in the early 1500s and one thing that tingles the travel-venturer inside us is that the width of the gardens perfectly align with that of the Taj Mahal.
It was named as the Moonlight Garden by Emperor Shah Jahan as he discovered this place to be the perfect site from where one can admire the Taj from.
The layout of Mehtab Bagh includes numerous pavilions, fountains, water channels etc. into its 25+ acres of land adorned with lush green lawns, vibrant flora and symmetrically aligned pathways.
The most interesting thing about the Garden is the reflection pool called as the Shah Jahan Fountain. This pool mirrors the Taj Mahal, which creates a stunning visual effect which cannot be described in words, or recreated by any sort of visual editing applications out there. It’s real. A stunning reflection.
The best time to visit the Mehtab Bagh is during the sunset, when the warm hues spread over the skies. That’s why this spot is on the fourth place in our places to visit in Agra in 1 day.
Mughlai Delights: Culinary Adventures | 04 Hours Remaining
Lastly, the list of best things to do or places to visit in Agra in 1 day can not be completed if you did not try out the most mouth-watering delicacies that this historical city has, at the most amazing eateries all around town.
Reflecting the diverse North Indian cuisine, the Agra delicacies include Tandoori Delights, Mughlai Specialties, Stuffed Parathas and the popular Petha, along with other popular street food flowing around the northern India.
Tandoori Delights
Agra has just the right taste and aroma if you are into popular North Indian Tandoori delicacies. The tandoori cuisine is cooked in a traditional clay oven (tandoor) and is celebrated for its smoky flavors and luscious textures.
What to Eat: Tandoori Chicken, Chicken Tikka, Tandoori Roti
Where to Eat: Pind Balluchi, Peshawri, Tandoori Hut
Mughlai Specialties
The city of Agra and its cuisine is heavily influenced by the Mughal Empire and hence, you find the most rich and creamy Mughlai delicacies right here in this marvelous city. The aromatic spices, rich flavors and the Persian cooking techniques made it into one among the most amazing food to ever exist in the world. (especially for the non-veggies in India).
What to Eat: Mutton Korma, Nihari, Galouti Kebab
Where to Eat: Joney’s Place, Pinch of Spice, The Mughal Room
Biryani
Biryani features aroma-filled basmati rice and is cooked with tender meat or chicken while being blended with the best spices. It is a symphony of flavors that you feel in your mouth right as you take the first bite.
What to Eat: Chicken Biryani, Mutton Biryani with Raita
Where to Eat: Shankar Ji Biryani Wale, Aleem Restaurant, Ohh Biryani
Parathas
Parathas are the most favorite when it comes to local cuisine for the vegetarian North Indians. These stuffed flatbreads are enjoyed anytime throughout the day, be it for breakfast, lunch or dinner at majority of the northern plains of India: Delhi, Agra, Lucknow, Punjab, etc.
What to Eat: Aloo Paratha, Paneer Paratha, Mixed Paratha
Where to Eat: Ram Babu Paratha Bhandar, Quality Paratha, Anokhe Paranthe
Petha
The most famous souvenir of Agra, without which you must not exit the land of the Mughal era is this sweet treat known as Petha. It is made from winter melon (or ash gourd) and is available in many varieties including a saffron flavor, rose flavor, even chocolate flavored ones.
What to Eat: Plain Petha, Paan Petha, Chocolate Petha
Where to Eat: Panhchi Petha (the most popular), Munna Lal Petha Wale, Gopaldas Petha Wale
Want more Places to Visit in Agra in 1 Day? Check this out:
Places to Visit in Agra in 1 Day: FAQs
Can Agra be covered in 1 day?
Although if you have time you must stay in Agra at least for 2 days to visit all the popular and less-popular places, try the best delicacies and enjoy the time fully. But, it is possible to just spend a day in this historical city and take back a lot memories and magical moments along, if done right.
What is the most famous site in Agra?
Of course, the Taj Mahal is the most famous site in Agra. From its historic nature, the romantic story, the controversies and the legendary architecture, this wonder of the world remains to be the major attraction for tourists from across the globe. That’s why it is our first suggestion in the Places to Visit in Agra in 1 Day list.
What is the best time to visit Agra?
Keeping in mind the weather in this northern city of India, the best time to visit Agra is during the winter seasons: starting from end of October and going strong till the mid of March.
What is the best time to visit the Taj Mahal?
If you want to avoid the crowds and floating heads spread all over your Taj photographs, the best time to visit is during the early morning sunrise, or before the sunset in the evening, just before it is about to be closed for entrance.
Conclusion
Agra is a masterpiece when it comes to travel. With rich cultural heritage, historical wonders and a mouth-watering cuisine, this city promises to be an unforgettable experience whether you are here for a day or more.
This list of the best places to visit in Agra in 1 day contains the most popular and fun things to do in the city to experience it at its very best with the little time that we have.
From witnessing the Taj in the morning, time traveling through the Mughal era at the Agra Fort, witnessing the miniature version of the Taj to exploring the best place to admire the Taj Mahal and trying out the best local delicacies – Agra has so much to offer even if it’s just one day that you have.
So what’s the wait for? Go ahead, pack your stuff and go on this marvelous journey through our history books, while getting the most outstanding monumental photographs for your Insta.
That’s All Folks!
