Patna to Agra Distance

Agra is one of the most populous city of Uttar Pradesh. It is a major tourist destination because of its many magnificent Mughal era buildings like the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. It is also an important part of the Golden Triangle tourist route along with Delhi and Jaipur. This former capital of Mughal Empire is mainly popular for the Taj Mahal and this is the reason that most of the tourists miss out many other interesting activities or places. Next time while planning a trip to Agra, don’t forget to explore more of this amazing city. Here’s a list of the top ten things to do in Agra:

1. Spend a day with villagers at Korai Village

Take a break from the usual sightseeing and try out something new by spending a day with the villagers. Korai Village is located at a distance of 8 Km before Fatehpur Sikri. Here you can explore the rural area of the city by interacting with the villagers and learning about their simple lifestyle. You can also visit their huts and can see how they cook their food in the traditional village style. Don’t forget to meet the village wizard Mohammad who is popular among tourists for his tricks.

2. Take a forest walk inside the Taj Nature Park

Here is another chance to see the Taj Mahal while walking amidst a beautiful park made by the Social Forestry Division of Agra. It is spread over 70 hectares of land and is just 500 meters away from the east gate of the Taj Mahal. You’ll be walking through a 9 km trail amidst various species of birds, wildlife, trees and shrubs. In some places, elevated photo points are made from where one can click a shot of the Taj Mahal. It almost touches the right bank of the River Yamuna and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.

3. Buy Leather Goods at Sadar Bazaar

Sadar Bazaar is a popular local street market of Agra. Located at West of Khari Baoli near Agra Cantt Railway Station, Agra Fort and Taj Mahal, the bazaar is famous for the leather work, shoes and handicraft items. Marble inlay items like coasters, vases, table tops, boxes and other gift items can also be bought from here. It is open daily (except Tuesday) from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Don’t miss out on the local street foods like chaat (especially bhalle) and pani-puri from the evening stalls.

4. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner at Joney’s Place

Located on the Miyan Nazir Road, Tajganj, Joney’s Place restaurant offers delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner. Try out the North Indian style breakfast of puris and cholley, a grand lunch with a glass of refreshing banana lassi. Diners can choose from a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian curries, macaroni, pancakes, sandwiches, pasta and even falafel and hummus. The malai kofta and the toasted tomato and cheese sandwich are highly recommended. It is open daily from 5 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

5.Go to Marble Cottage for Marble Inlay Handicraft Items

Located at Jasoria Enclave, Fatehabad Road, Marble Cottage, Agra is a famous factory cum small retail shop of Marble Inlay Art and handmade products. Established in 1974, now with its team of 15 highly skilled craftsmen, it creates magnificent objects in marble. You can choose from variety of things like Taj Mahal replicas, White Marble Table Tops, White Elephant, Marble Inlay Photo Frame, Chess Boards, Candle Holders, Marble Jewellery Boxes and Marble Animal Figures. Beautiful carpets and rugs are also available here.

6.Visit Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary

It is located 20 Kms from Agra on the Delhi-Agra Highway (NH2). Spread over an area of 7.97 square kilometres, it was declared as a National Bird Sanctuary in 1991 by U.P. Forest Department. The place also houses a beautiful man-made lake known as Keetham Lake that is a perfect spot for relaxation. It is estimated that more than 106 species of migratory birds come to this sanctuary every year. One can also see a variety of fishes and aquatic birds. Some of the aquatic birds inhabiting Keetham Lake include Darter, Purple Heron, Black necked Stork, White Ibis, Little Gerbs and Paddy Bird.

7. Attend the Taj Mahotsav Festival at Shilpgram

Taj Mahotsav is an annual 10 day festival that is held at Shilpgram. This festival celebrates the rich crafts, arts and culture of India. Around 400 artisans from all over the country come together and showcase their unique crafts. Stone/wood carvings from Tamil Nadu, Chikan work from Lucknow, Bamboo work from the North East, Paper Mache work from South India and Kashmir, brass wares from Moradabad and Pottery from Khurja can be found here. Get a slice of the folk dances and taste varieties of lip-smacking Indian dishes. At Fun Fair, kids can enjoy joy rides like merry-go-round, Train-rides and Ferris wheel.

8.Have a look at Hammams of Fatehpur Sikri

Hakim’s Hammam of Fatehpur Sikri is the largest surviving Hammams (domed bath house) of Mughal India. It is a majestic structure with exquisite stucco work and golden paintings that occupies an area 105 metres by 78 metres. It is assumed that the Hakim’s bath house was used by Akbar and other royal family members. The water required for the baths was supplied by a well which is situated in the south-east corner. The building has a dressing room, a room for steam bath and two large rooms which were probably used for massage therapy.

9.Take a bite of Mughlai Food at Only Restaurant

Located at 45, Taj Road, Only Restaurant is the best place to try Mughlai food in the city. The interiors of the restaurant are pretty appealing with bright tablecloths and bamboo walls. The menu offers Mughlai, Chinese and Continental cuisine. Live music programmes are also held every evening. It is open daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. A must go place for foodies!

10.Watch the romantic musical drama ‘Mohabbat-The Taj’

The Sanskritik Natyashala of Kalakriti Conventional Centre organises ‘Mohabbat-The Taj’, a series of musical play that depicts the love story of Shahjahan and Mumtaz. The place can seat up to 585 people and has a 70 mm wide backdrop screen. They have created the world’s largest replica of Taj Mahal in Makrana marble which is carried by a hydraulic lift on the centre of the stage. The regal costume of the artists, the magnificent jewellery and the language of the songs of the play are worth seeing as they take you back to the Mughal era. Daily live shows are held at 6:30 p.m.

Patna, the bustling capital of Bihar, is a city that perfectly marries its ancient heritage with modern growth. Positioned along the southern bank of the River Ganges, Patna stands as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Known historically as Pataliputra, it once served as the capital of the Mauryan and Gupta empires, making it a treasure trove of historical and cultural wealth. Today, Patna is a vibrant urban center that offers visitors a unique blend of historic landmarks, cultural richness, and contemporary urban life.

What sets Patna apart is its deep cultural roots and its strategic importance as a gateway to numerous religious and historical sites in Bihar. The city is a melting pot of traditions, offering a vivid tapestry of local life and culture. From ancient monuments and educational institutions to bustling markets and tranquil riverfronts, Patna has a diverse array of attractions that cater to all kinds of travelers.

Patna's significance in Indian history and culture is profound. It has been a center of learning, spirituality, and governance for centuries. The city's array of landmarks and attractions reflect its illustrious past and its contributions to Indian civilization. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or someone looking for an enriching travel experience, Patna promises to leave you with unforgettable memories.

The best time to visit Patna is during the winter months, from October to March. During this period, the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing, with temperatures ranging between 10°C and 25°C. This is also the peak tourist season, so it is advisable to book your flights to Patna well in advance to secure the best deals.

• Winter (October to February): The weather is cool and comfortable, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities and exploring the city's many attractions. Various festivals and cultural events also take place during this season, adding to the city's vibrancy.

  
  

• Summer (March to June): Summers can be quite hot, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C. However, this is also when you can find cheaper flights to Patna and enjoy less crowded tourist spots.

  
  

• Monsoon (July to September): The monsoon season brings moderate to heavy rainfall, which can sometimes cause travel delays. Despite the rain, the city's lush greenery is at its peak, offering a different kind of scenic beauty.

  
  

Patna boasts a wide range of attractions that cater to diverse interests. Here are some must-visit places in the city:

• Golghar: Built during British rule, this iconic granary offers panoramic views of Patna and the Ganges River. It's a great spot for photography and leisurely strolls.

  
  

• Takht Sri Patna Sahib: This revered Sikh shrine is the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru. It is a significant pilgrimage site and a place of spiritual solace.

  
  

• Bihar Museum: A modern museum that showcases Bihar's rich history, art, and archaeological treasures. It is an excellent place to learn about the region's cultural heritage.

  
  

• Kumhrar: These archaeological ruins are believed to be part of the ancient Mauryan palace complex. History enthusiasts will find this site particularly fascinating.

  
  

• Gandhi Maidan: A large open ground surrounded by historic buildings, it is a popular spot for public events, fairs, and recreational activities.

  
  

• Ganga River Ghats: The ghats along the Ganges River are perfect for evening walks and peaceful boat rides during sunset, offering a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

  
  

Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport (PAT) is the primary airport serving Patna and its surrounding regions. Located just about 5 kilometers from the city center, the airport provides convenient access to major areas in Patna.

• The airport is well-connected with regular flights from major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, and Hyderabad.

  
  

• Leading domestic airlines operate frequent flights to and from Patna, ensuring seamless connectivity.

  
  

• The airport features modern terminal facilities, including food outlets, waiting lounges, and assistance desks to cater to travelers' needs.

  
  

• With efficient arrival and departure services, Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport ensures a smooth travel experience for both business and leisure travelers.

  
  

Getting around Patna is convenient, thanks to a variety of local transportation options available to travelers arriving by flight.

• Auto-rickshaws and E-rickshaws: These are affordable and readily available for short-distance travel within the city. They are a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.

  
  

• Taxis and App-based Cabs: Comfortable and reliable, taxis and app-based cab services like Ola and Uber are ideal for airport transfers and city tours.

  
  

• City Buses: Patna's city buses connect major areas and are commonly used by locals for daily commuting. They are an economical option for budget travelers.

  
  

• Cycle Rickshaws: Perfect for navigating narrow lanes and market areas, cycle rickshaws offer a unique and eco-friendly way to explore the city.

  
  

For a smooth and hassle-free travel experience, many visitors prefer using taxis or app-based cabs for their transportation needs in Patna.