Agra

Day 1: Historical Wonders of Agra

Morning Activity:

• Visit the Taj Mahal
  • Description: Start your journey at dawn to witness the majestic Taj Mahal bathed in the early morning light. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its stunning architecture and romantic history.
  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds. Dress modestly and wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking.

Lunch Suggestion:

• Peshawri Restaurant
  • Description: Enjoy authentic Mughlai cuisine at this luxurious restaurant inside the ITC Mughal Hotel.
  • Recommended Dishes: Try the Biryani and Tandoori dishes.

Afternoon Activity:

• Explore Agra Fort
  • Description: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Agra Fort is a stunning example of Indo-Islamic architecture and was once the seat of the Mughal Empire.
  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Tip: Don’t miss the view of the Taj Mahal from the fort.

Evening Activity/Dinner Recommendation:

• Dinner at The Sky Deck
  • Description: Dine with a view of the Taj Mahal at this rooftop restaurant.
  • Recommended Dishes: Sample local delicacies like Dal Makhani and Butter Chicken.

---

Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Morning Activity:

• Visit Mehtab Bagh
  • Description: A beautiful garden complex offering a stunning view of the Taj Mahal from across the Yamuna River.
  • Duration: 1.5 hours
  • Tip: Bring your camera; the gardens are perfect for photos.

Lunch Suggestion:

• Cafe Coffee Day
  • Description: A casual spot to enjoy light bites and coffee.

Afternoon Activity:

• Tour of the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj)
  • Description: Known as the Baby Taj, this tomb is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture and is less crowded.
  • Duration: 1.5 hours
  • Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for softer lighting for photography.

Evening Activity/Dinner Recommendation:

• Dinner at Pinch of Spice
  • Description: A popular restaurant known for its North Indian cuisine.
  • Recommended Dishes: Enjoy their Paneer Tikka and Chicken Curry.

---

Day 3: Off the Beaten Path

Morning Activity:

• Guided Tour of Bateshwar Temples in Morena
  • Description: Visit ancient temples dating back to the 6th century, surrounded by nature.
  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Tip: Dress conservatively and prepare for a scenic drive (approx. 2 hours from Agra).

Lunch Suggestion:

• Local Dhaba
  • Description: Experience authentic local food at a roadside dhaba.

Afternoon Activity:

• Chambal River Safari
  • Description: Enjoy a unique safari on the Chambal River, famous for its wildlife including gharials and river dolphins.
  • Duration: 2-3 hours
  • Tip: Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting.

Evening Activity/Dinner Recommendation:

• Dinner at Dasaprakash
  • Description: Savor traditional South Indian cuisine.
  • Recommended Dishes: Dosa and Idli.

---

Day 4: Day Trip to Fatehpur Sikri

Full-Day Trip:

• Visit Fatehpur Sikri
  • Description: Explore this stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its red sandstone architecture.
  • Duration: Full day
  • Tip: Hire a local guide for in-depth history.

Lunch Suggestion:

• Local eateries in Fatehpur Sikri
  • Description: Try out local vegetarian dishes.

Evening Activity/Dinner Recommendation:

• Return to Agra and dine at Agra’s famous street food stalls
  • Description: Experience local flavors, especially the Agra Petha (sweet).

---

Day 5: Art and Crafts

Morning Activity:

• Visit a Marble Inlay Workshop
  • Description: Learn about traditional marble inlay work, a craft perfected in Agra.
  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Tip: You may purchase unique souvenirs.

Lunch Suggestion:

• Shankara Vegis Restaurant
  • Description: A vegetarian restaurant offering local and Indian dishes.

Afternoon Activity:

• Visit the Agra Handicrafts Emporium
  • Description: Explore local handicrafts, textiles, and more.
  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Tip: Bargain for the best prices.

Evening Activity/Dinner Recommendation:

• Dinner at Mughal Spice
  • Description: A fine dining experience with a menu inspired by Mughal cuisine.

---

Day 6: Nature and Relaxation

Morning Activity:

• Exploration of Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary)
  • Description: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, ideal for bird watchers and nature lovers.
  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Tip: Early morning is best for bird watching.

Lunch Suggestion:

• Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary Cafeteria
  • Description: Enjoy a simple meal amidst nature.

Afternoon Activity:

• Visit Local Village
  • Description: Experience rural life and interact with locals.
  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Tip: Respect local customs and dress modestly.

Evening Activity/Dinner Recommendation:

• Return to Agra for dinner at The Golden Spices
  • Description: Known for its vibrant atmosphere and tasty North Indian food.

---

Day 7: Last-Minute Explorations

Morning Activity:

• Visit the Agra Market
  • Description: Explore the bustling markets for last-minute shopping and local snacks.
  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Tip: Try local snacks like Chaat.

Lunch Suggestion:

• Bikanervala
  • Description: Enjoy a mix of North Indian and traditional sweets.

Afternoon Activity:

• Relax at your hotel or visit the local spa
  • Description: Unwind before your departure.
  • Duration: 2-3 hours
  • Tip: Book treatments in advance.

Evening Activity/Dinner Recommendation:

• Farewell Dinner at The Taj Terrace
  • Description: Enjoy your last meal with a stunning view of the Taj Mahal.
  • Recommended Dishes: Mughlai Thali.

---

This itinerary showcases the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of Agra while balancing popular attractions with unique experiences, providing a comprehensive and immersive visit.