Agra Journey: Your Simple Guide to Taj Mahal and Romantic Spots

If you’re thinking about an Agra trip, you’re probably chasing two things: the iconic Taj Mahal and a dash of romance. Good news – Agra delivers both without the hassle of a massive itinerary. In this guide you’ll get the must‑see places, a practical budget plan, and a quick day‑by‑day outline that works for solo travelers, couples, and families.

What to See in Agra

The Taj Mahal tops the list, of course. Arrive early (around sunrise) to avoid crowds and catch the marble glow. Grab a ticket online to skip the queue – it saves time and a few rupees on on‑site fees. After the Taj, head to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site that shows the city’s Mughal power. It’s a short walk from the Taj, so you can combine both in the same morning.

Don’t miss the Mehtab Bagh on the opposite bank of the Yamuna River. It’s a garden with a perfect back‑view of the Taj, especially stunning at sunset. For a quieter vibe, visit the Itmad‑ud‑daula’s Tomb (aka Baby Taj). Its intricate carvings give you a taste of the architecture that inspired the main monument.

If you love food, stop by a local dhaba for a plate of petha (sweet pumpkin) and dal moth banarsi. The flavors are simple, but they tell a story of Agra’s culinary heritage. And if you have a few extra hours, the Sikandar Lodhi’s Garden offers a peaceful spot to stretch your legs before heading back.

Plan Your Agra Trip on a Budget

Traveling to Agra doesn’t have to break the bank. The cheapest way to get there is by train from Delhi – the Shatabdi or Gatimaan expresses are fast and cost around ₹500 one‑way. If you’re already in Delhi, a shared Uber or a local bus works too. Once you’re in Agra, stay in a mid‑range hotel near the Taj; rooms average ₹2,500 per night, and many include free breakfast.

For food, street stalls and small restaurants serve a full meal for under ₹150. Budget‑friendly activities include a sunrise visit to the Taj (₹100 entry) and a free walk through the local market. If you want a guided experience, a half‑day local guide costs about ₹700 and can give you insights you won’t find in a guidebook.

Here’s a quick 2‑day budget plan:

• Day 1: Arrive early, visit Taj Mahal (₹1,300 entry), explore Agra Fort (₹550), lunch at a dhaba (₹150), sunset at Mehtab Bagh (₹20). Evening at local market.
• Day 2: Sunrise at Taj (if you missed it), visit Baby Taj (₹30), breakfast, check‑out of hotel, head back to Delhi by train.

Remember to carry cash for small vendors and keep your passport handy at ticket counters. With these simple steps, you’ll see why Agra often tops the list of India’s most romantic cities.

Ready to book? Grab your train tickets, pack a light bag, and set your alarm for sunrise – the Taj Mahal is waiting.