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48 hours in Agra: From sunrise at Taj to forts, food, and fabulous finds

48 hours in Agra: From sunrise at Taj to forts, food, and fabulous finds

TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Apr 15, 2025, 10:00 IST

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Explore Agra's Mughal splendor with a 2-day itinerary, starting with a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal and exploring Agra Fort. Discover the "Baby Taj," immerse yourself in local markets, and savor Mughlai cuisine. Conclude your journey with a visit to Akbar’s Tomb, experiencing the city's rich history and vibrant culture.

48 hours in Agra: From sunrise at Taj to forts, food, and fabulous finds

Agra—the city where love is literally built in stone. Adorned with Mughal charm and timeless grandeur, it’s home to the iconic Taj Mahal, which is also one of the world’s seven wonders. If you have never been to Agra, this quick 2-day itinerary will cover all must-visit places and let you enjoy mouth-watering Mughlai treats and soak in the vibrant street scenes. If you’re craving a mix of history, flavor, and Insta-perfect backdrops, here is all that you need to do.

Day 1: Taj Mahal and more

Morning: Sunrise at the Taj Mahal

Start your day early—and we mean really early. Set that alarm and grab your camera �?the Taj Mahal at sunrise is basically the golden hour to see it in glorious form. Arrive at the gate just as the first rays hit, and watch the iconic white marble blush in soft pinks and golds. No crowds, no chaos �?just you, the gardens, and that dreamy lotus pond reflection that’ll make your Instagram followers swoon.
Tip: The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays, so plan accordingly.
Breakfast: Head to a local café or your hotel for breakfast—maybe some aloo parathas or fresh jalebis.

Midday: Agra Fort

Proceed to Agra Fort, which is only 2.5 km away. The Mughal monarchs' primary home was this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover its courtyards, rooms where royal judgments were once made, and walls composed of red sandstone. Don't overlook the fort's balcony for a view of the Taj.
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Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Mughlai lunch—try a thali or dig into dishes like mutton korma, biryani, and sheermal.
Evening: Mehtab Bagh
Cross the Yamuna River to visit Mehtab Bagh, a serene garden directly opposite the Taj Mahal. It offers an excellent view of the monument, especially during sunset. It’s the perfect quiet spot to end your first day.
Dinner: Choose a rooftop restaurant with Taj views for dinner—the city lights and monument glow make for a romantic evening.
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Day 2 �?Experience the cultural and offbeat experiences

Morning: Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah

Nicknamed the “Baby Taj,�?this beautiful tomb is a must-visit. Built entirely in white marble, it’s a precursor to the Taj Mahal’s design. Fewer crowds make it perfect for a relaxed visit and photos.
Midday: Local Markets & Craft Workshops
Head to the Kinari Bazaar or Sadar Bazaar for a colorful dose of Agra’s culture. Shop for leather goods, marble inlay souvenirs, spices, and handicrafts. You can also visit a marble workshop to see how artisans create intricate inlay work using the same techniques from the Mughal era.
Lunch: Try local street food like bedai with sabzi, bhalla chaat, and petha—Agra’s famous sweet.
Afternoon: Akbar’s Tomb (Sikandra)
Venture a little outside the city to visit Akbar’s Tomb, located in Sikandra. The sprawling gardens and unique blend of architectural styles make it a peaceful and fascinating stop.
Evening: Chill and reflect
Return to your hotel or take a leisurely walk. Grab dinner at a cozy eatery, perhaps with live music or soft lighting to wind down

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