Agra is famous worldwide for the iconic Taj Mahal. But this historic city in northern India has much more beyond its most famous monument. Agra is a treasure trove of architectural engineering, cultural experiences, and lively neighbourhoods waiting to be explored. From the majestic Agra Fort to the peaceful beauty of Mehtab Bagh. There’s no shortage of attractions that display the city’s fascinating heritage. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone eager to learn more about local traditions. Agra has something for every traveller looking to uncover its many layers beyond the Taj Mahal.

Agra Fort

Agra Fort is impressive historical site and known for its architectural grandeur and historical importance. The fort is located just a few kilometres from the Taj Mahal. The fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning example of Mughal architecture. It is also known as the Red Fort of Agra due to its massive walls made of red sandstone.

History

Agra Fort was originally built in the 16th century by Emperor Akbar. He is one of the most celebrated rulers of the Mughal dynasty. The construction of the fort began in 1565 and was completed in 1573. Later rulers, including Akbar’s grandson Shah Jahan, contributed to its further development and refinement.

The fort had multiple roles throughout its history. It was initially a military stronghold, a royal residence, and a political centre. As the Mughal Empire flourished Agra Fort became the centre of the empire’s power, housing emperors, their families, and their courtiers. The fort’s strategic location on the banks of the Yamuna River also gave it military importance.

One of the fort’s most poignant historical moments is its connection to Shah Jahan. After being overthrown by his son Aurangzeb, in 1658, Shah Jahan was imprisoned in Agra Fort for the last years of his life. It’s believed that from his cell in the fort’s Musamman Burj (a marble tower overlooking the Taj Mahal), he could view the Taj Mahal. The mausoleum he built in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.

Architectural design

Agra Fort is a large complex that covers about 94 acres and includes a mix of architectural styles, combining Islamic, Persian, Timurid and Indian influences. The fort is divided into two main sections: the inner fortified city, where the royal residence was located. And the outer military section, which was used for defence purposes. A few architectural elements are:

Red sandstone walls

The fort is encircled by walls made of red sandstone and are about 20 meters (66 feet) high and stretch for 2.5 kilometres (1.5 miles) around the complex. These walls give the fort its distinct appearance and have earned it the nickname “Red Fort.”

Jahangir Mahal

One of the most stunning sections of Agra Fort is the Jahangir Mahal. It was built by Akbar for his son, Jahangir. The palace is a mix of Islamic and Hindu architectural styles and comes with detailed decorations, carvings and beautiful courtyards. The chhatris (elevated domed pavilions) and balconies have a stunning view of the surrounding area.

Diwan-i-Am and Diwan-i-Khas

These are two important structures inside the fort. The Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audiences) was used by the Mughal emperors to address the public and hold court. The Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audiences), which is smaller was where the emperor met with important visitors or held private discussions. The Diwan-i-Khas is famous for its pearl inlay work and white marble columns.

Musamman Burj

The Musamman Burj is a beautiful octangular tower where Shah Jahan was imprisoned. This marble pavilion has detailed designs and has a nice view of the Taj Mahal.

The Anguri Bagh

Located in the inner part of the fort, the Anguri Bagh (Grape Garden) is a meticulously planned garden that symbolizes Mughal horticultural practices. It is laid out in a geometric pattern, with fountains and channels running through the garden.

The Fort’s influence on Mughal Architecture

Agra Fort’s architecture had an important influence on the development of Mughal buildings and palaces in subsequent years. The fort is considered one of the best examples of Mughal military architecture combined with palatial beauty. The construction of the fort laid the groundwork for later constructions, including the magnificent Red Fort in Delhi.

The fort’s use of red sandstone and white marble, its detailed inlay work, and its structures exemplify the power, wealth and refinement of the Mughal Empire. The use of Persian, Central Asian, and Indian influences created a unique and harmonious design.

Taj Gang

The Taj Gang in Agra is a lively area located near the iconic Taj Mahal.  It is known for its local atmosphere. It is a neighbourhood with shops, street vendors and restaurants. It is a mix of traditional Indian goods and souvenirs. It’s a popular spot for tourists to experience the culture and energy of the city. The proximity to the Taj Mahal also means the Taj Gang is often a starting point for visitors exploring one of the world’s most famous landmarks.

Mehtab Bagh

Mehtab Bagh in Agra is a garden situated across the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal. It is famous for its stunning views of the monument. The garden is designed in a Charbagh layout, with many green trees and plants. It’s the perfect spot for photography, especially during sunset. Mehtab Bagh gives a unique perspective of the Taj Mahal.

Fatephur Sikri

Fatehpur Sikri has a fascinating history that is connected with the reign of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. It was founded in 1569 and the city was initially intended to be the Mughal capital. Akbar’s decision to establish Fatehpur Sikri came after he successfully expanded the Mughal empire. He wanted to create a city that represented his vision of religious tolerance and political strength. The city was named “Fatehpur Sikri” meaning “City of Victory” to commemorate his triumph over the Rajputs. Specifically after his victory at the Battle of Talikota in 1568.

The city’s architectural design reflects Akbar’s interest in combining the best of various architectural styles. The buildings in Fatehpur Sikri are a harmonious blend of Persian, Mughal, and Indian styles. The most notable feature of the architecture is the extensive use of red sandstone. It gives the structures its distinctive colour.

Some of the most prominent buildings in Fatehpur Sikri are:

Jama Masjid

The Jama Masjid is a large mosque at Fatephur Sikri. The Jama Masjid is an example of Mughal architectural. It has an immense central prayer hall with a large courtyard and arches. Its design is influenced by both Persian and Indian styles. The mosque’s entrance is the grand Buland Darwaza. This is a tall gateway and used to be an imposing symbol of Akbar’s military conquests.

Buland Darwaza

This monumental gateway, Buland Darwaza, is 40 meters tall. It is a remarkable structure built to commemorate Akbar’s victory over Gujarat in 1573. It is an excellent example of Mughal architecture and is decorated with carvings and inscriptions in both Persian and Arabic.

Panch Mahal

The Panch Mahal means “Five-Level Palace,”. It was commissioned by Emperor Akbar and situated near the Zenana quarters (Harem). It is believed to have been a place for entertainment and relaxation. This extraordinary palace was inspired from Buddhist temple architecture. The palace has an unique, column design consisting of four stories that progressively decrease in size. The ground floor has 84 columns and had detailed jaali (screens) between them. These screens provided structural support and privacy. These screens once provided a veil of purdah, allowing the queens and princesses on the upper terraces to enjoy the cool breeze while taking in the stunning views of the Sikri fortifications and the town below.

Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience)

This is a beautiful octagonal building that was used as a meeting place for Akbar and his trusted advisors. It is known for its central pillar and platform where Akbar would sit to listen to petitions. The Diwan-i-Khas design reflects Akbar’s desire for a centralized space where he could govern with wisdom and justice.

Tomb of Salim Chishti

This tomb honours the Sufi saint Salim Chishti. He was highly regarded by Akbar. The tomb is an architectural masterpiece with marble carvings and delicate jaali work. The shrine has become a popular pilgrimage site, with many visitors coming to pray for fertility and children.

Fatehpur Sikri’s planning also reflected Akbar’s interest in creating a model city with sophisticated infrastructure. The city was divided into distinct sections, each designed to house the emperor’s court, his military officials, religious leaders, and craftsmen. The streets were wide and lined with buildings that shows Akbar’s commitment to architectural innovation. The use of water channels, courtyards and gardens in the design of the city created a serene and organized environment.

Getting to Fatehpur Sikri

Fatehpur Sikri is located about 40 kilometres from Agra. It is well-connected by road and rail. Here are a few options:

Car or taxi

From Agra: The most convenient way to reach Fatehpur Sikri is by car or taxi. It takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to drive, depending on traffic. You can hire a taxi from Agra. The road is well-maintained, and you’ll pass through scenic landscapes on your way.

From Delhi: If you’re coming from Delhi, it takes about 4-5 hours by car, depending on traffic. You can either drive yourself or hire a taxi. The drive is along the Yamuna Expressway, which is a fast route connecting Delhi to Agra.

Train

From Agra: You can take a train from Agra to Fatehpur Sikri. The nearest railway station to the site is .Fatehpur Sikri Railway Station. There are regular trains connecting Agra and Fatehpur Sikri. The journey takes about 30-45 minutes.

From Delhi: If travelling from Delhi, you can catch a train to Agra and then transfer to a train bound for Fatehpur Sikri. There are also direct trains from Delhi to Agra, and from there, you can continue by taxi or train to Fatehpur Sikri.

Reading tip: How to book train tickets in India as foreigner?

Bus

From Agra: Regular buses run from Agra to Fatehpur Sikri. You can catch a bus from the Agra bus station, and the journey takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. This is a more budget-friendly option but may not be as comfortable as travelling by car.

Booking tip: You easily book train and bus tickets via 12GO

Private tour

Many tour operators in Agra offer day trips to Fatehpur Sikri, including transportation and a guided tour of the site. This is an excellent option if you are looking for a more organized experience.

Once you arrive at Fatehpur Sikri, the main monument area is easily walkable, and local guides are available to help navigate the site and provide historical context.

Best time to visit Agra

The best time to visit Agra is during the cooler months, from October to March. Here’s why:

October to March

These months have pleasant weather, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). The cool temperatures make it ideal for sightseeing, as you can explore Agra’s famous landmarks like the Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri and Agra Fort without the intense heat. This period is also the peak tourist season in Agra, so it can get crowded, especially around major attractions like the Taj Mahal. To avoid the largest crowds, try to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

April to June

The summer months can be very hot, with temperatures going above 40°C (104°F), which can make outdoor activities uncomfortable, especially for long sightseeing tours.

July to September

This is the monsoon season, and while the rain can bring some relief from the heat, it can also cause humidity and disrupt outdoor activities. But the gardens and surroundings do look green during this period.

If you’re interested in cultural experiences, you can plan your trip around local festivals like Diwali (usually October or November) or Holi (March). It will add a unique cultural vibe to your visit. But be prepared for larger crowds during these times.

In summary, October to March is the most comfortable and popular time to visit Agra for its pleasant weather and clear skies. If you prefer fewer tourists, visiting early in the morning or during the weekdays can be a more relaxed experience.

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