World Heritage Week 2024 Agra: Top Sights You Can't Miss

Taj Mahal, Agra (Image: Canva)

World Heritage Week, celebrated annually from November 19 to November 25, is a global initiative dedicated to preserving and promoting cultural and historical treasures. Spearheaded by UNESCO and supported by organizations like the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), this week highlights the richness of heritage while raising awareness about its conservation.

The theme for 2024, "Discover and Experience Diversity," invites travelers to explore the varied cultural and historical landscapes that shape our world. Agra, with its iconic monuments and Mughal-era charm, stands out as a prime destination for this celebration.

Agra, known as the City of the Taj, offers a unique opportunity during World Heritage Week—free entry to all ASI-protected monuments. However, if you wish to enter the main dome of the Taj Mahal, a nominal fee of INR 200 will apply.

Plan your visit during this special week to explore the city's history, culture, and architecture without the usual entry fees. To help you craft your itinerary, here’s a guide to the top six must-visit sights in Agra.

1. Taj Mahal: The Taj Mahal, often referred to as the "Crown of Palaces," stands as one of the most iconic symbols of India. A masterpiece of Mughal architecture, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was built between 1631 and 1648 by Emperor Shah Jahan in loving memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Crafted entirely from white marble, the Taj Mahal is adorned with intricate carvings and semi-precious stones. Its perfectly symmetrical layout, reflecting pools, and lush gardens evoke a sense of harmony and tranquility, drawing millions of visitors annually.

Agra Fort, Agra, Uttar Pradesh. (Image: Canva)

2. Agra Fort: The imposing Agra Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Mughal era. Constructed by Emperor Akbar in the late 16th century and later modified by his successors, this sprawling red sandstone fortress served both as a military stronghold and a royal residence. Inside, you’ll find a mix of stunning architectural styles, including the Jahangir Mahal, Diwan-i-Am, and Sheesh Mahal, each reflecting the opulence of Mughal artistry. Its strategic location overlooking the Yamuna River adds to its historical significance.

3. Fatehpur Sikri: A visit to Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO-listed ghost city, is like stepping back in time. Built by Emperor Akbar in 1571, this meticulously planned city served as the Mughal capital for about 14 years before being abandoned due to water scarcity. Its well-preserved structures, including the Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid, and the Tomb of Salim Chishti, showcase a harmonious blend of Persian, Indian, and Islamic architectural styles. Despite its deserted state, the city’s grandeur remains intact, making it a must-see destination near Agra.

4. Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb: Known as the "Baby Taj," the Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb is a smaller but equally exquisite precursor to the Taj Mahal. Built between 1622 and 1628 by Nur Jahan for her father, Mirza Ghiyas Beg, this mausoleum is renowned for its delicate inlay work and lattice screens. The tomb’s intricate designs, set against a lush garden, highlight the artistic innovations that inspired the later construction of the Taj Mahal. Its symmetrical design and use of white marble mark a transition in Mughal architecture.

5. Mehtab Bagh: For a panoramic view of the Taj Mahal, head to Mehtab Bagh, an elegant garden complex located across the Yamuna River. Originally laid out by Emperor Babur, this charbagh-style garden was later refurbished by Shah Jahan. Offering a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle, the garden is the perfect spot to watch the Taj Mahal bathed in the soft hues of sunrise or sunset. Its serene ambiance makes it a favorite among photographers and nature lovers alike.

6. Akbar’s Tomb at Sikandra: The grand Akbar’s Tomb, located in Sikandra, is an architectural marvel and the final resting place of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. Constructed during his reign and completed by his son Jahangir, the tomb combines Islamic, Hindu, and Buddhist architectural elements, reflecting Akbar’s policy of religious inclusiveness. Set amidst a sprawling garden filled with deer and peacocks, the tomb’s majestic gateway and intricately designed interiors embody the emperor’s visionary legacy.