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Explore the grand architecture of Agra Fort, visit the stunning Jahangir Mahal, the beautiful Diwan-i-Khas, and enjoy panoramic views of the Taj Mahal from the fort’s ramparts. Don't miss the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) and the stunning courtyards.
Agra Fort is located on a small hill on the banks of the Yamuna River, about 3 kilometers away from the Taj Mahal. Because it is built of red sandstone, it is also called the Red Fort. It was once the imperial city of the Mughal Empire. It is a different building from the Red Fort in Delhi.
Built in 1573, Agra Fort serves as both a palace and a fortress. Its imposing exterior and magnificent interior are a masterpiece of the pinnacle of Islamic art in India, blending the pinnacle of artistic achievement with an unforgettable love story. It was designated a World Heritage Site in 1983. The fort once contained over 500 buildings, but few remain today.
The best time to visit Agra Fort is early morning or late evening. In the early morning, you can watch the sunrise over the Taj Mahal from a distance in Agra Fort, when the light is better and you can avoid the crowds.
The best time to travel is from October to March
1-3 hours
650 rupees; present your Taj Mahal ticket when purchasing the ticket to receive a 50 rupee discount
Sunrise to sunset; some areas are closed on Fridays
Agra Fort was built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century and served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors until the capital was moved to Delhi. It holds significant historical value and offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Mughal empire, with a rich architectural blend of Islamic, Persian, Timurid, and Indian styles.
Agra Fort is located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India, about 2 km from the Taj Mahal. You can reach there by taxi, rickshaw, or walk from the Taj Mahal. Buses and taxis are also available from the Agra Railway Station and city center.
Agra Fort is open every day from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the cooler weather.
The entrance fee is INR 600 for foreign tourists and INR 50 for Indian nationals. Tickets can be bought on-site, but it is recommended to buy tickets online to avoid queues, especially during peak seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory but recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons or public holidays, to avoid long lines. Tickets can be booked online a few days before your visit.
It typically takes around 2 to 3 hours to fully explore Agra Fort, depending on your interest in history and architecture.
The must-see highlights include the Jahangir Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas, Sheesh Mahal, Musamman Burj (where Shah Jahan was imprisoned), and the Fort's ramparts offering views of the Taj Mahal.
Yes, guided tours and audio guides are available in English, Hindi, and other languages. Guided tours are recommended to learn more about the history and significance of the fort's architecture.
The best viewpoints are from the fort’s ramparts, especially from the Musamman Burj, where you can get stunning views of the Taj Mahal across the Yamuna River.
Start from the main entrance, exploring the various courtyards like the Jahangir Mahal and Diwan-i-Am, then visit the Sheesh Mahal and end at the Musamman Burj for views of the Taj Mahal.
There are no regular night visits or light shows at Agra Fort. However, special tours may be available during festivals or special events, so check with local tour providers.
Agra Fort can be crowded, especially during peak tourist season (November to February) and weekends. Early mornings or late afternoons during weekdays are the least crowded times to visit.
There are basic facilities available at the fort, including public toilets, drinking water stations, and a few shops selling souvenirs. Food options are limited, but there are restaurants nearby in Agra.
Agra Fort is partially accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, but there are many steps and uneven paths, making it difficult for those with mobility issues to navigate the entire fort comfortably.
Cash is accepted at the entrance, and mobile payments may be accepted in some shops inside the fort. However, it’s a good idea to carry cash for smaller purchases and entry fees.
Nearby restaurants include "Esphahan" at the Oberoi Amarvilas, "Peshawri" at ITC Mughal, and "The Roof Top" offering local and international cuisine.
Yes, many nearby restaurants offer vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options, especially in the larger hotels around the fort.
Hotels near Agra Fort include "The Oberoi Amarvilas," "ITC Mughal," and budget options like "Hotel Taj Resorts" and "Shahzadi Hotel."
Nearby attractions include the Taj Mahal, Mehtab Bagh (a park with views of the Taj Mahal), and Fatehpur Sikri (a UNESCO World Heritage site). These are all easy to combine in a day trip.
Yes, there are several souvenir shops around the fort selling items such as marble crafts, miniature Taj Mahal models, jewelry, and traditional handicrafts.
After visiting Agra Fort, taxis, rickshaws, and private transport options are available to continue your trip. The Agra Railway Station is nearby for train connections to other parts of India.
