The Best Things to See and Do in Agra Beyond the Taj Mahal

Agra has a rich history and reminders of this are spread throughout the city. One of the finest historical sites is the 16th century Agra Fort, which is reminiscent of the Mughal era. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the fort is built using red sandstone and beautified with inlay work in white marble. Inside the fort lies stunning structures, like Khas Mahal, Jahangiri Mahal, Shish Mahal (mirror palace), Diwan-e-khaas (hall of private audiences), Diwan-e-aam (hall of general audience), Moti Masjid (Pearl Mosque) and Nagina Masjid (Gem/Jewel mosque), which are truly mesmerizing. Another striking fort is the Sikandra Fort that lures visitors in with its stunning architecture, which is a blend of Hindu and Muslim styles, intricate carvings and exquisite marble work. The tomb of a powerful Mughal Emperor, Akbar, also resides in this fort.

Agra Fort, Rakabganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India

There are two tombs that were built before the Taj Mahal, Akbar’s Tomb and theTomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah, but both are often overshadowed by it. Beautifully preserved, the tombs are historical and architectural marvels that provide an insight into the bygone era. Spread over a sprawling 119 acres of land in Sikandra, Akbar’s Tomb contains the remains of the Mughal Emperor, Akbar. Speaking of the design aesthetics, the tomb is a four-tiered pyramid made of deep red sandstone and enhanced with white marble, intricate carvings and calligraphic and floral designs. Just a stone’s away from Akbar’s Tomb lies another tomb, the Tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani (wife of Emperor Akbar and mother of Jahangir).

Another tomb worth visiting is the Tomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah, which is an antithesis to the characteristics of Mughal architecture. It was the first mausoleum to be built out of white marble instead of red sandstone (this exemplifies Mughal architecture). Also called ‘Baby Taj’, the tomb has been built with the same cut-out stonework (Pietra dura) and elaborate carvings as the Taj Mahal. A particularly appealing feature is the 13 metre-tall hexagonal towers at each corner of the structure. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, this mausoleum is an equally opulent structure that oozes beauty from every corner.

Tomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah, Moti Bagh, Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India, +91 0562 228 0030

If you’re an animal lover, this is a must-visit place. The Agra Bear Rescue Facility is the largest bear rescue centre in the world, housing over 200 rescued sloth bears. However, it also provides shelter to several other animals, such as leopards, tigers, elephants and more. Two-hour guided tours are on offer, which include a documentary on the dancing bears of India, as well as allowing visitors to get up-close and personal with bears and other animals.