Agra Tour with Fatehpur Sikri

Morning:

1. Depart for Agra (6:00 AM - 8:30 AM)

   • Description: Begin your day early to make the most of your time in Agra. You can opt for a private car, a train, or even a guided tour that provides transportation. The drive from Delhi to Agra typically takes around 3 hours.

2. Taj Mahal (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM)

   • Description: Start your visit with the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Arriving early will allow you to enjoy the monument at its most serene, with fewer crowds and a magical morning glow. The Taj Mahal, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, is renowned for its stunning white marble architecture and intricate inlay work.
   • Tip: Spend time walking around the lush gardens and reflecting pools for stunning views and photographs. Ensure you visit both the main mausoleum and the beautiful surrounding gardens.

3. Taj Museum (11:00 AM - 11:30 AM)

   • Description: Located near the Taj Mahal, the Taj Museum offers a detailed history of the monument’s construction. You can explore artifacts, sketches, and models related to the Taj Mahal’s history and architectural design.
   • Tip: It’s a quick stop to learn more about the Taj's rich history.

Mid-Morning:

4. Agra Fort (11:45 AM - 1:00 PM)
   • Description: A short drive from the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort is a majestic red sandstone fort that once served as the Mughal Empire's seat of power. The fort has beautiful gardens, palaces, and halls like the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audiences), Jahangir Mahal, and Musamman Burj (where Shah Jahan was imprisoned).
   • Tip: From the fort’s ramparts, enjoy a breathtaking view of the Taj Mahal across the Yamuna River.

Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM)

• Enjoy a delicious traditional Mughlai lunch at local restaurants like Pinch of Spice or Esfahan Restaurant at Oberoi Amarvilas for a luxurious experience.

Afternoon:

5. Fatehpur Sikri (2:30 PM - 6:00 PM)

   • Description: After lunch, take a 40-minute drive to Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former capital of the Mughal Empire, built by Emperor Akbar. Explore the expansive complex, which includes:
     • Buland Darwaza (The Great Gate) – The highest entrance in the world.
     • Jama Masjid – A beautiful mosque with intricate architecture.
     • Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) – A large hall where Akbar held public meetings.
     • Panch Mahal – A five-story palace offering panoramic views of the surroundings.
   • Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as the site involves a lot of walking and climbing. The ruins are magnificent, and the site is quieter compared to Agra’s other attractions.

Optional Addition or return to Delhi

Evening:

7. Local Market Exploration (6:00 PM - 7:00 PM)

   • Description: Visit Sadar Bazaar or Kinari Bazaar to explore Agra’s vibrant markets. These local markets are famous for their marble inlay work, leather goods, carpets, and traditional Rajasthani jewelry. It’s an ideal place to pick up souvenirs from your trip.
   • Tip: Bargaining is common in these markets, so be prepared to negotiate prices.

8. Dinner (7:00 PM - 8:00 PM) if Option Selected

   • Enjoy a traditional Mughlai dinner at one of Agra’s top restaurants, such as Shilpgram Restaurant or The Glass House at the Jaypee Palace Hotel. These venues offer stunning views of the Taj Mahal while serving delicious local and international cuisine.