Agra

Best time to visit

October to March

Agra's climate is generally hot and dry during the summer months, with temperatures often soaring high, while the winters are mild and pleasant. The city experiences a distinct monsoon season from July to September, bringing much-needed rainfall and a brief respite from the heat.

Getting there & around

• Rail — Agra Cantt (AGC) is the main station, served by the Gatimaan Express and Shatabdi from Delhi; Agra Fort, Raja ki Mandi and Idgah are secondary stations.
• Road — The Yamuna Expressway connects Agra to Delhi, about 230 km and roughly 3-3.5 hours by road.
• Air — Agra Airport (AGR, Kheria) has limited flights; Delhi is the practical airport for most travellers.
• Road — Cycle-rickshaws and e-rickshaws are the only vehicles allowed close to the Taj gates - a roughly 500 m no-fuel zone bars other vehicles near the monument. Autos and taxis cover the rest of the city.

Before you go

• Do not build a Friday around the Taj - it is closed that day.
• Check the night-viewing calendar about a month ahead, not a day ahead: tickets are sold in person only a short time in advance, and the dates shift with the lunar calendar.
• Treat Fatehpur Sikri as a separate day, not an add-on to a Taj visit - it is about 37-40 km out.

Famous eateries & specialties

• Kulfi at Lala Ji — A popular sweet shop serving traditional Agra-style kulfi, a creamy and flavorful ice cream.
• Panchhi Petha — A famous shop serving traditional Agra petha, a sweet dish made from flour and sugar.
• Mughal Mahal — A popular eatery serving traditional Mughlai cuisine, including dishes like biryani and kebabs.
• Gola Sweets — A well-known sweet shop serving traditional Agra-style gola, a sweet and tangy drink made from crushed ice and flavored syrups.

Emergency numbers