Overview
An Agra Overnight Tour offers a relaxed and immersive experience of Agra’s most iconic monuments. On the first day, you can start by visiting the stunning Taj Mahal, the world-famous symbol of love, best experienced in the soft light of the afternoon or at sunset. After admiring its intricate marble work and serene beauty, head to the Agra Fort, a majestic red sandstone structure that served as the residence of Mughal emperors.
After a day of sightseeing, enjoy a comfortable overnight stay at a local hotel. The next morning, begin with an early sunrise view of the Taj Mahal to witness its changing hues in the morning light, offering a different perspective from the previous day.
Before concluding the tour, you can visit Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, known as the “Baby Taj,” and explore local markets for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs. This overnight tour allows ample time to appreciate Agra’s rich history and architectural splendor.
Highlights:-
- Visit Taj Mahal with the first light down.
- Enjoy Rikshaw ride in Agra.
- Visit Agra Fort.
- Enjoy Mouth-watering Breakfast.
- Visit Mehtab Bagh.
- Explore Agra’s Local Markets.
- Visit Fatehpur Sikri.
Detailed Itinerary:-
Day 1: Arrival in Agra and Sightseeing
9:00 AM – Arrival in Agra
Upon arrival in Agra, check into your hotel and take a short break to freshen up. Agra is easily accessible from Delhi by car (approximately a 3-4 hour drive via the Yamuna Expressway) or by train (such as the Gatimaan Express or Shatabdi Express).
10:00 AM – Visit Agra Fort
Begin your tour with a visit to the Agra Fort, one of the most important Mughal forts and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by Emperor Akbar in 1565, the fort was a royal residence and a military base. The massive red sandstone structure houses numerous palaces, courtyards, mosques, and audience halls that reflect the opulence of the Mughal era.
Key sites to explore within the fort include:
- Jahangir Mahal: A beautiful palace with a blend of Islamic and Hindu architectural elements, built by Akbar for his son, Jahangir.
- Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience): Where the emperor addressed the public.
- Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience): Where the emperor met with important dignitaries and foreign visitors.
- Musamman Burj: A marble tower with a stunning view of the Taj Mahal, where Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb.
Spend 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the fort’s impressive architecture, courtyards, and gardens.
12:30 PM – Lunch Break
After visiting Agra Fort, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Agra is known for its Mughlai cuisine, so consider trying dishes like biryani, kebabs, and mutton korma at popular eateries like Pinch of Spice or Peshawri at ITC Mughal.
2:00 PM – Visit Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb (Baby Taj)
Next, visit Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, often referred to as the “Baby Taj.” Built by Empress Nur Jahan in memory of her father, Mirza Ghiyas Beg, this tomb is considered the first Mughal structure made entirely of white marble. Its intricate inlay work and delicate lattice screens (jali) set a precedent for the later construction of the Taj Mahal.
Spend about 45 minutes to 1 hour exploring this peaceful mausoleum and its surrounding gardens.
3:30 PM – Visit Mehtab Bagh (Optional)
If you’re interested in photography or simply want a quieter perspective of the Taj Mahal, visit Mehtab Bagh, a Mughal garden located across the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal. From here, you’ll get a panoramic view of the monument, especially as the sun begins to set, casting a golden glow on the white marble.
Spend about 1 hour strolling through the gardens and enjoying the serene atmosphere.
5:00 PM – Visit the Taj Mahal at Sunset
Conclude your day with a visit to the world-famous Taj Mahal. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is one of the most beautiful and iconic monuments in the world. Visiting during sunset is ideal, as the changing light creates a stunning array of colors on the white marble.
Explore the intricate architecture, symmetrical gardens, and reflective pools that make the Taj Mahal a masterpiece of Mughal design. Visit the main mausoleum to see the intricately decorated tombs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal.
Spend 2 to 3 hours at the Taj Mahal, soaking in its beauty and capturing memorable photos.
8:00 PM – Dinner and Overnight Stay
After your visit to the Taj Mahal, return to your hotel for dinner and a restful night. You can dine at your hotel or explore local dining options. If you’re staying at a luxury hotel like The Oberoi Amarvilas, you can dine at Esphahan for a fine dining Mughlai experience. Alternatively, casual options like Joney’s Place offer local cuisine at affordable prices.
Day 2: Fatehpur Sikri and Final Sightseeing
6:00 AM – Sunrise Visit to the Taj Mahal (Optional)
For those who want to experience the Taj Mahal in different lighting conditions, an early morning sunrise visit is highly recommended. The soft light of dawn gives the Taj Mahal a delicate pinkish hue, making it a magical experience. You’ll also avoid the crowds that gather later in the day.
Spend about 1 hour here, capturing beautiful photos and enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
8:00 AM – Breakfast at the Hotel
After your optional sunrise visit, return to your hotel for breakfast. Enjoy a traditional Indian breakfast with dishes like parathas, poha, or opt for continental fare like omelets and toast.
9:00 AM – Departure for Fatehpur Sikri
After breakfast, set out for Fatehpur Sikri, located about 40 kilometers (1 hour) from Agra. Fatehpur Sikri was built by Emperor Akbar in the late 16th century and served as the Mughal capital for about 15 years before being abandoned due to water shortages. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning example of Mughal architecture.
10:00 AM – Explore Fatehpur Sikri
Upon arrival at Fatehpur Sikri, spend 2 to 3 hours exploring the vast complex of palaces, mosques, and courtyards. Key monuments to visit include:
- Buland Darwaza: The imposing 54-meter-high gate built to commemorate Akbar’s victory over Gujarat. It’s one of the largest gates in the world.
- Jama Masjid: A grand mosque with an impressive courtyard, which is still used for prayers today.
- Tomb of Salim Chishti: A beautiful white marble tomb dedicated to the Sufi saint Salim Chishti, who blessed Akbar with a son.
- Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience): Known for its unique central pillar with intricate carvings and its symbolic design.
- Panch Mahal: A five-story palace with open colonnades that offered a cool retreat for the royal family during the summer.
- Jodha Bai’s Palace: The residence of Akbar’s Hindu wife, featuring a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture.
The architectural grandeur of Fatehpur Sikri offers a fascinating insight into the vision of Emperor Akbar and the multicultural influences that shaped the Mughal Empire.
1:00 PM – Lunch Break
After your exploration of Fatehpur Sikri, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant. You can try regional specialties such as dal bati churma, thali, or traditional Mughlai dishes.
2:00 PM – Return to Agra
Drive back to Agra after lunch, where you can relax or explore more of the city based on your preferences. You may choose to visit local markets like Sadar Bazaar or Kinari Bazaar to shop for handicrafts, leather goods, and Agra’s famous petha (a sweet made from ash gourd).
4:00 PM – Visit Akbar’s Tomb at Sikandra (Optional)
If time permits, visit Akbar’s Tomb at Sikandra, located about 10 kilometers from Agra. This grand mausoleum is the final resting place of Emperor Akbar, one of the greatest Mughal emperors. The tomb’s architecture is a blend of Hindu, Islamic, and Persian styles, reflecting Akbar’s secular philosophy.
Spend about 45 minutes exploring the tomb complex, which is surrounded by beautiful gardens filled with deer and peacocks.
6:00 PM – Departure from Agra
After completing your sightseeing, head back to your hotel to collect your belongings and check out. Depending on your travel plans, you can proceed to the Agra Railway Station or take the Yamuna Expressway back to Delhi, concluding your Agra Overnight Tour with Fatehpur Sikri.
Includes/Excludes:-
Private air-conditioned vehicle.
Multi-lingual tour guide service.
Monument entrance tickets.
Complimentary water bottles & umbrellas.
Sumptuous breakfast at 5* restaurant.
All Taxes.
Any Personal expenses
Tips / Gratuities
