Exploring Agra: Beyond the Taj Mahal

India
February 7, 2025

After spending a few days in the bustling streets of New Delhi, I decided to hop on a train and make my way to Agra, one of the most iconic cities in India, home to the world-famous Taj Mahal. Spoiler alert: It didn’t disappoint.

The Journey: The Train to Agra

Now, before you get any wild ideas from viral videos of crammed trains and people hanging off every inch, let me tell you, the train ride from New Delhi to Agra was actually pretty comfortable. No human Tetris, no overcrowding. Just a nice, decent train ride for around three hours. My advice? Always go for a window seat, because the view of the villages whizzing by is like a mini-excursion of its own.

For all those who are wondering, yes, the train had air conditioning. And yes, they served a small snack — nothing extravagant, but you’re not going to starve. One thing that’s unique to the Indian train stations is the coolies—a term used for porters who carry your bags for a fee. Picture it: a guy in a red shirt, offering you his help while you stand there like, “Do I really need to pay for this?” The answer is, well, yes, if you’re feeling too lazy to lug around your own luggage.

A word of advice: If you’re planning on taking a train to Agra, make sure to buy your tickets well in advance. The trains tend to fill up, especially during peak seasons, and you don’t want to be left scrambling for a seat.

Arriving in Agra: Scorching Heat and a Quick Ride

As soon as I arrived in Agra, the heat hit me like a wall. It was July, and even my water bottle seemed to sweat in sympathy with the temperature. But hey, when in India, right? I hopped into a tuk-tuk (the quintessential Agra experience) to head to my hotel, drop off my bags, and get straight to the main event: The Taj Mahal.

Fun Facts About Agra, Through the Eyes of a Tourist

While I was in Agra, I couldn’t help but notice a few fun facts about the city, which as a tourist, might surprise you:

The Taj Mahal is a World Wonder: The Taj Mahal, of course, is the crown jewel of Agra. But did you know that it was built over a 17-year period, and the white marble you see was transported from all over India and even Central Asia?
Local Culture: Agra is not just about the Taj Mahal. The city is home to historical landmarks like the Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. Plus, Agra’s local markets are filled with artisan crafts, marble souvenirs, and delicious street food (but more on that later).
A Photographer’s Paradise: Everywhere you look in Agra, there’s a new perspective for the perfect Instagram shot. Whether it’s the Taj Mahal at sunrise or the vibrant colors of the Agra Fort, your camera roll will thank you.
The Petha Game: Agra’s famous sweet, Petha, made from ash gourd, is a treat you absolutely must try. It’s sweet, refreshing, and is often flavored with rose or saffron.

The Taj Mahal: A Monument to LOVE

When I finally stood in front of the Taj Mahal, I was struck by its sheer beauty. As the sun reflected off the white marble, I couldn’t help but feel the love story that inspired it. So what is it about the Taj Mahal that makes it so mesmerizing?

Well, here’s the story: The Taj Mahal was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who tragically died during childbirth. Shah Jahan was so heartbroken by her death that he vowed to build a monument that would be a testament to their eternal love. The Taj Mahal is the result of that promise — a perfect blend of Persian, Ottoman, and Indian architectural styles. If you want to read more about this story, click here.

The entrance to the Taj Mahal is framed by beautiful gardens, reflecting pools, and a grand gateway. As you walk through it, you’re slowly drawn towards the shimmering white marble mausoleum, which rises majestically in the distance. It’s one of those moments when you can’t help but stand still, take it all in, and appreciate the work of generations of craftsmen.

One thing I’d recommend if you’re visiting is hiring a guide. The Taj Mahal can be a bit overwhelming, and a knowledgeable guide will help you understand its history, symbolism, and architectural brilliance. Plus, they’re pretty good photographers, so you’ll leave with plenty of Instagram-worthy shots.

Entrance Fees and Tips

Now, here’s the catch: The entrance fee for foreigners is significantly higher than that for locals. I mean, around ten times more. But, let’s be honest, for the experience of standing in front of one of the world’s most iconic structures, it’s worth it. And let’s not forget that the fees help with the preservation of the Taj Mahal, so it’s money well spent.

Agra Fort: The Mughal Powerhouse

After the Taj Mahal, I decided to head over to Agra Fort—another monumental piece of Mughal history. Now, I’ll be honest, the Taj Mahal tends to steal the spotlight, but Agra Fort is definitely worth your time.

The fort is a massive complex made of red sandstone, and it was the residence of Mughal emperors for generations. It has everything: palaces, gardens, mosques, and views that will make you feel like royalty. If you’re like me, you’ll find yourself wandering around in awe, trying to take it all in.

One of the most fascinating parts of the Agra Fort is the fact that Emperor Shah Jahan spent his last years there in house arrest. Legend has it that his son, Aurangzeb, locked him away in the fort, where he spent his days gazing out at the Taj Mahal—the very monument he built for his beloved wife. It’s a poetic (and somewhat tragic) part of the story that adds an extra layer of romance and sorrow to the experience.

Wrapping Up: Agra’s Charm

As I wrapped up my visit to Agra, I couldn’t help but think about how much more this city offers than just the Taj Mahal. Sure, the Taj is the star of the show, but Agra is like the supporting actor that steals the scene. From the magnificent Agra Fort to the bustling markets and street food, this city is full of history, culture, and life.

So, if you find yourself in India, make sure Agra is on your itinerary. Sure, it’s hot, sure, there are a lot of tourists, but trust me, the beauty of Agra—and the Taj Mahal—will make it all worth it. Just remember to bring some sunscreen and a camera—because you’re going to need both.