Agra, the city is synonymous with the grandeur and elegance that’s associated quite often with the Mughal rule in the country. Surf the internet and you will come across and endless catalogue of websites, all of which would provide you with detailed information and anecdotes about Agra. However, if you are a travel enthusiast who’s planning on visiting Agra as a first timer, then do make it a point to go through this bite-sized 3-day itinerary.

Here is how your 3-day Agra itinerary needs to look like:

Travelling to Agra

Arriving in Agra is easier by road, rail and air.  All those who are planning to travel from Delhi to Agra via flight can land @ Agra Airport. The airport is extremely well connected to other parts of the country, and lies at a distance of just about 30 minutes from the centre of the city.

As far as road travel is concerned, travelling to Agra from Delhi via road has become simpler.  Keep travelling along the Taj Express Highway and you’ll reach your destination in about four (4) hours.

Travelling via train is just as simple. Opt for the Ujjaini Express and you will be able to reach Agra in about 3 hours.

Make your way to the hotel and rest up a bit before you start exploring the place. Also, do not forget to check out some of the savoury delights that you come across within the confines of the hotel’s dining area. You’ll be able to explore several places if you are well rested. It is always a good idea to make a list of the best places in and around Agra before you get your expedition underway.

Day 1: Do Not Make Your Way to the Taj Mahal Straightway

Enjoy a hearty meal at the hotel itself before hitting the streets of Agra. If you do not wish to eat at the hotel, then do check out the various local eateries in Agra. Good Vibes Café is the ideal destination for those who wish to treat their taste buds to Indian and continental delicacies. Right from the stuffed aloo parantha to eggs, jam, bread and butter, you will find some of the best dishes as part of the menu.

It is obvious for people to make their way to the Taj Mahal. However, there are several other places that should also be explored by you if and when you plan on travelling to Agra. To begin with, explore the lush green surroundings that the Mehtab Bagh has on offer for you. This garden complex is one of the most peaceful places in Agra. Travellers can treat their eyes to the mesmerising glimpses of the Taj Mahal while admiring the lush green expanses of the Mehtab Bagh.

If you are anywhere near the Taj Mahal, then do not think twice before grabbing a quick lunch at the Green Park Restaurant. Tandoori chicken and Biryani are two of the most popular dishes that you need to try out without fail if you get a chance to visit this eatery/restaurant.

All of the vegetarians out there can try out the evergreen aloo gobhi and palak paneer (along with masala naan).

After enjoying a lavish lunch at the restaurant, make your way to the ever-popular Kinari Bazaar of Agra. The place has vast reserves of leather goods, handicrafts, glassware, rugs, and textiles on offer for the buyers.  The good thing about the Kinari Bazaar is: here, you’ll get to buy products at wholesale prices.

Also, do not forget to pay a visit to the all-important Jama Masjid. You’d get to experience a colourful and happening evenings near the Jama Masjid. Do also pay a visit to the shops selling perfumes or ‘Itr’ in and around the Mosque.

Make your way to the hotel and treat yourself to a hearty dinner before retiring to bed.

Day 2: Check Out Agra Fort, Akbar’s Tomb and Itimad’s Tomb

Check out your hotel’s breakfast menu and grab a quick bite before making surrendering yourself to the vibrant streets of Agra. To begin with, explore the Agra Fort, which is also known as the ‘Lal Qila’ of Agra.

Agra is one of those places in India that offer you deeper insights into the various aspects of the ever-popular Mughal Architecture.  Agra Fort is a colossal monument that would be loved by all fans and enthusiasts of the good-old Mughal splendour.

After your trip to the Agra Fort is complete, check out the Tomb of Itimad-Ud Daulah, which is known as ‘Baby Taj’. The place is just about perfect for all those who happen to be looking for photo opportunities. Greenery is something that is found in abundance near the tomb.  The Agra Fort and Itimad’s Tomb are both located at a distance of just about 2-3 kms from the heart of the city. This means you will be able to cover both of them simultaneously.

Also, do make it a point to check out the ‘Yes Restaurant’ in Agra, which is known for its mouth-watering Halaal food, right from chicken Biryani to kebabs. Do try out the savoury Mughlai delicacies. Their taste would remain with you long after the meal is done and dusted.

Up next, visit Akbar’s Tomb, which is a symbol of the grandeur (and elegance) that is often associated with Emperor Akbar and the monuments constructed by him.  Miriam Zaman’s Tomb also happens be located in the vicinity. It would be great if you could pay Miriam’s Tomb a visit as well.

As far as supper is concerned, make your way to any of the roadside eateries that happen to be scattered in and around Akbar’s Tomb.  Barge into the Food Paradise Bakery and Café to treat yourself to the best snacks in Agra. Right from Chinese fast food to desserts and tea, you will find a lot of mouth-watering delicacies to appease your bellies.

Also, sweet shops happen to be one of Agra City’s striking features.  ‘Petha’ is one of the most popular sweets found in Agra, and you will be able to find them with ease in many of Agra’s sweet shops.

Grab a meal at the Paradise Bakery and Café and enjoy something light and healthy, right from masala dosa to Chinese fast food.  Make your way to the hotel and enjoy a decent night’s sleep.

Day 3: Shop at Sadar Bazaar Before Waving Bye-Byes

Make the last day of your trip memorable by enjoying a lavish meal at the hotel itself.  The best hotels in Agra can be booked by you if you go online. Barge into the Subhash Bazaar to buy yourself cheap garments. Cheap T-Shirts happen to be one of the best things to buy for men in Agra. Plus, silk sarees are a rage among women visiting this market place. So, make it a point to buy yourself some high-quality garments.

If you have a taste for ethnic wear, then Agra’s Sadar Bazaar is the ideal marketplace for you to check out.  Table tops, vases, coasters, etc. can be bought from the Sadar Bazaar.

Grab something to eat from the Jahanpanah Restaurant, which offers an exquisite fine-dining experience. Try out ‘Paneer Mirch Tikka’ and ‘Potli Chicken’ without fail. These are two of the most popular dishes served at this restaurant/eatery.

Do grab a few books from Sadar Bazaar’s Modern Book Depot to keep yourself busy during the long journey home. Good byes aren’t going to be easy, but you will have countless memories to cherish if and when you get to visit Agra.

Happy holidaying,folks!

OYO