10 Nov 2014

How to plan a trip to Agra

Overview

Agra is one of the most famous cities of the modern-day India is also known for still retaining its old-world charm. Located on the banks of River Yamuna, it has been an important part of history attached to it, which was once the capital of one of Mughal emperors. Today, Agra is home to a number of World Heritage Sites and many other local tourist attractions which makes it a famous tourist stopover.

Agra is one of the most famous cities of India today which still has its old charm. Located on the banks of river Yamuna, it has an important part of the history attached to it, of once being the capital of the Mughal emperors. Today, World Heritage Sites in Agra and some other local tourist attractions are making it a famous tourist stopover.

Agra and Around

As far as sightseeing is concerned, there are some of the best tourist attractions which are an example of Mughal architectural marvel and their history. On the top of the list is Taj Mahal, one of the 7 wonders of the world. Another must-visit is the Agra Fort. Other places in Agra are Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid, Itmad-ud-Daulah, Dayal Bagh and so on. (Before visiting any of the monuments, you must check their visiting timings and charges, to avoid last minute disappointment).

Jahangiri Mahal Agra

Jama Masjid Agra

Buland Darwaza Agra

Agra Zardozi Embroidery

The local bazaar of Agra is one of the best places to shop as the city is well-known for zardozi-embroidered based fabric, jewelry, Brassware, leather good. A lot of bargaining can be done here.

Apart from this, there are other places also which you can visit around Agra such as Jaipur, Mathura-Vrindavan, Fatehpur Sikri, and Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary.

Reaching there

By Air- If you are coming into the city by plane then your flight is going to land at Agra Air Force station, which is also known as Kheria Air Force Station. The closest international airport to Agra is Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi. By the way of domestic flights, Agra is well-connected with various cities such as Varanasi, Khajuraho and so on.

By Train-There are three railway stations in Agra, Agra Cantonment Railway Station and Agra Fort Railway Station and raja ki mandi but most of the trains from all the major cities of the country will drop you to Agra Cantt Railway Station only.

By Road- Agra is very well-connected to many cities by road, such as Delhi, Mathura. Kanpur, Chandigarh, Lucknow, Jaipur and so on, you can make use of the interstate bus service of the respective cities. Idgah bus stand is the major bus stand here.

Moving intra-city is also very easy, by the way of handcarts, Taxis and auto-rickshaws.

Paperwork

The paperwork which is required from you enter into India and then subsequently into Agra is less. You are required to have a passport and a Visa, which is very easy to get. It is important to carry identification documents at all times. It is advisable you carry the originals in your luggage and photostats in your pockets.. You must also have all your important documents scanned and saved online for reference in case of worst case scenarios, i.e. luggage theft

Accommodation And Dining

As far as accommodation is concerned, Agra hotels can be categorized into heritage properties, luxury hotels, star-rates hotels, economy or budget hotels and business hotels also. You can easily pick any according to your requirement and pocket. Since a large number of foreign tourists visit this city, there are a number of 5 star hotels in Agra which one of which is ITC Mughal Agra. All these are going to offer you warm hospitality services along with all modern-day amenities.

There are many specialty restaurants in the city which are going to take care of all your food needs offering you some most delicious dishes.

Important Points to Note

One of the most important things is that you should get your itinerary planned by a professional tour-travel company.
Make sure that you take services of only certified tour guides.
While dressing, one must keep the local dressing etiquette in mind.
When dining out, you must inquire about the spice-level of the food served.
Before taking the tour of the city or the country, you must register yourself with the local embassy of your country there.