Things to Do in Agra Fort

Agra, home to the world-famous Taj Mahal, is a historic city in Uttar Pradesh that served as the capital of the Mughal Empire for over a century. Beyond its iconic marble mausoleum, Agra boasts an impressive collection of Mughal architecture, including the magnificent Agra Fort, the ethereal Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, and the abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikri nearby. The city's rich heritage is woven into every street, from bustling bazaars selling marble inlay work and leather goods to traditional eateries serving authentic Mughlai cuisine. While most visitors come for the Taj Mahal, Agra offers a complete immersion into India's golden age of architecture and culture. The city's artisans continue centuries-old traditions of marble craftsmanship, creating intricate pietra dura work that adorns monuments and souvenirs alike. Despite the crowds of tourists, Agra maintains its authentic character, especially in the old quarters where narrow lanes reveal hidden gems, local workshops, and the daily rhythm of Indian life continues much as it has for generations.

Agra's dining scene ranges from street food stalls serving local favorites like chaat and paranthas to upscale restaurants offering refined Mughlai cuisine. The area around Taj Ganj has numerous tourist-friendly restaurants with rooftop views of the Taj Mahal, while Sadar Bazaar offers authentic local eateries frequented by residents. Don't miss trying Agra's famous petha (a translucent sweet), bedai (spicy breakfast bread), and dal moth (lentil snack). For fine dining, many luxury hotels serve excellent Mughlai dishes in elegant settings, while local institutions like Dasaprakash and Pinch of Spice offer reliable Indian cuisine. Street food enthusiasts should explore Kinari Bazaar and Rawatpara for authentic local flavors, though choose busy stalls with high turnover for food safety.

The ideal time to visit Agra is from October to March when temperatures are pleasant and ranging from 15-25°C during the day. Winter months (December-February) offer the most comfortable weather but also bring the highest crowds and accommodation prices. The monsoon season (July-September) brings relief from heat but can affect sightseeing due to rain and humidity. Summer months (April-June) are extremely hot with temperatures exceeding 40°C, making outdoor exploration challenging, though this period offers lower prices and fewer crowds. For photography enthusiasts, the post-monsoon period (September-October) provides clear skies and good visibility, while winter mornings often feature beautiful fog that can create mystical scenes around monuments.