Agra walking tour & city guide

The Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1631. Its white marble changes color with the light, from pink at dawn to gold at sunset. Visit at sunrise for the best light and fewer crowds. It is closed on Fridays.

Agra Fort and beyond

Agra Fort, a red sandstone fortress, is where Shah Jahan spent his last years imprisoned, gazing at the Taj. Mehtab Bagh, a garden across the river, offers a quiet view at sunset. Fatehpur Sikri, an abandoned Mughal city, is 40 kilometers away.

Seeing the Taj Mahal

Arrive at the gates before sunrise, when the marble glows pink and the crowds are still small. Walk slowly through the gardens and look closely at the inlaid stone flowers and calligraphy.

Later, visit Agra Fort, from where Shah Jahan watched the Taj during his imprisonment. At sunset, cross the river to the Mehtab Bagh gardens for a peaceful view of the Taj from the other side.

Good to know

The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays. Many people visit on a day trip from Delhi by train, but staying overnight lets you see it at sunrise.

Large bags and food are not allowed inside. Fatehpur Sikri, a ruined Mughal city, is an hour away and well worth the trip.