Things to Do in Mehtab Bagh

Mehtab Bagh sits quietly across the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal, offering what many consider the most spectacular view of the iconic monument. This Mughal garden, whose name translates to "Moonlight Garden," was originally designed as the perfect vantage point to admire the Taj Mahal, and it delivers on that promise in spades. The garden itself is a beautifully restored charbagh (four-part garden) with fountains, pathways, and manicured lawns that create an almost meditative atmosphere. What makes Mehtab Bagh particularly special is its role as a sunset viewing spot - you'll find photographers and couples gathering here in the evening hours when the light hits the Taj Mahal just right. The garden is significantly less crowded than the Taj Mahal itself, which means you can actually sit peacefully and take in the view without jostling for position. It's one of those places where the journey feels as rewarding as the destination, especially if you time your visit with the golden hour.

The immediate area around Mehtab Bagh has limited dining options, so most visitors either pack snacks or plan to eat before/after their visit. Agra's food scene centers around the Taj Ganj and Sadar Bazaar areas, where you'll find everything from street food stalls serving excellent chaat and parathas to upscale restaurants in heritage hotels. The local specialty, Agra ka petha (a sweet made from ash gourd), makes for a good souvenir, though opinions on its taste vary widely among visitors.

October through March offers the most comfortable weather for visiting Mehtab Bagh, with pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities and clear skies for photography. The summer months (April-June) can be brutally hot, making sunset visits almost mandatory rather than optional. Monsoon season (July-September) brings its own challenges with muddy pathways and potential river flooding, though the landscape becomes notably greener. Winter mornings can be quite foggy, which creates atmospheric photos but might obscure your Taj Mahal views.