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Places to Visit Near Agra

Mathura is an ancient Indian city in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh and is believed to have been the birthplace of the Hindu deity, Lord Krishna. Also, it is home to some of the country's oldest and most beautiful temples and is considered one of the top tourist places near Agra.

It is also famous for its Holi celebrations and people from all over the world flock the city to celebrate the festival of colours. During this time, the whole city turns into a massive party, throwing colours and water from water cannons at each other with music in the background! When in Mathura, do make a point to visit one of the several ghats to attend the evening prayer or Aarti as devotees put their diyas in the water.

Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Mathura is around the month of March when the festival of Holi is celebrated. 

Distance from Agra:
58 kilometres by road 

Highlights:

- Participate in the annual Holi celebrations 

- Visit the twenty-five ghats that dot the city and sit on the Yamuna river

- Visit the archaeological museum to learn about the place's rich history 

- Visit the Kesava Deo temple

Delhi is much more than the capital city of the country. Its historical importance is still evident in many majestic architectural marvels that are still standing. Besides, it’s a popular destination for food as well as shopping.

Location/ Distance (from Agra Bus stand): 216 kilometres.

Best time/season to visit: October-March.

How to reach:
Road: Take a Volvo or a state-run bus, which run frequently.
Train: You can choose from Amritsar Chhatisgarh Express, Punjab Mail, etc.
Flight: No direct flights.

Attractions to visit: Go for day-long sightseeing tours to visit Red Fort, Lotus Temple, Humayun’s Tomb, India Gate, etc. Visit the charming by lanes of Chandni Chowk. See magnificent temples like Hanuman Mandir & Birla Mandir. 

Activities to do: Shop at the famous flea markets like Janpath. See the light & sound show at Red Fort. Eat delicious food at Old Delhi.

Popularly known as the ‘Pink City’, this capital of Rajasthan is one of the most vibrant and colourful tourist destinations. This is amongst the most popular places near Agra and is famous for its ancient and majestic forts, markets, and food.

Location/ Distance (from Agra Bus stand): 581 kilometres.

Best time/season to visit: October to March.

How to reach:
Road: There are plenty of direct buses, both state-run and private, available.
Train: There are plenty of trains available like Aii AF Intercity, and Bkn Hwh Supfast, etc.
Flight: No direct flight. Reach Delhi from Agra and then take a flight to Jaipur Airport.

Attractions to visit: Visit the beautiful Jal Mahal, Amer Fort and Nahargarh Fort. Spot some tigers and sloth bears at Ranthambore National Park and Jhalana Leopard Conservation Reserve.

Activities to do: Shop for handicrafts, shoes, pottery, and clothes at Bapu Bazaar & Nehru Bazaar. Try delicious Dal, Bati, Choorma at Laxmi Mishthan Bhandar. Try hot air ballooning, ATV rides, and quad bike riding.

Located in Uttarakhand, Nainital is amongst the most popular hill stations known for its beautiful landscape of turquoise green lakes, valleys, and nature trails. Amongst the top weekend getaways from Agra, this place offers amazing sightseeing opportunities and experiences.

Location/ Distance (from Agra Bus stand): 340 kilometres.

Best time/season to visit: March-June, and October-February.

How to reach:
Road: State-run buses are available from Kathgodam. No direct bus between Agra and Nainital.
Train: Reach Delhi via Gatiman Express and proceed via bus or taxi.
Flight: Reach Delhi to proceed via road or bus. No direct flights.

Attractions to visit: Visit Tiffin Top to see the beautiful sunrise and sunset. See the magnificent architecture of Hanuman Temple and Naina Devi Temple. See the museum and golf course at Raj Bhawan.

Activities to do: Boat in the Naini Lake and enjoy delicious Tibetan food from the nearby stalls. Shop for handicrafts at the Tibetan Market and Mall Road. Try ropeway ride at Mallital.

Located in Uttarakhand, Rishikesh is India’s rafting destination. It is equally popular for its beautiful landscape, yoga ashrams, and charming cafes located on the banks of River Ganga.

Location/ Distance (from Agra Bus stand): 418 kilometers

Best time/season to visit: March-May, and September-October for rafting.

How to Reach:
Road: Take a Volvo or state-run bus till Haridwar and proceed via taxi.
Train: Take Gatiman Express to New Delhi and proceed via bus.
Flight: Take a flight from Delhi to Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport and proceed via taxi.

Attractions to visit: Visit landmarks like Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula. See centuries-old temples like Trayambakeshwar and Raghunath temples. Visit the iconic Beatles Ashram.

Activities to do: Enjoy the river rafting. Try delicious world cuisine at Little Buddha Café & Free Spirit Café. Try bungee jumping, night camping, and mountain biking.

This capital city of Uttarakhand is one of the most famous places to visit near Agra. People visit from all over the country to see its monasteries, caves, springs, waterfalls, and the surrounding snow-capped mountains.

Location/ Distance (from Agra Bus stand): 433 kilometres.

Best time/season to visit: March-June, and October-February.

How to reach:
Road: There are many direct private and state-run buses to choose from.
Train: There are three direct trains- Dehradun Express, Ujjaini Express, and Ind Dehradun Express.
Flight: Reach Delhi to take a direct flight to Jolly Grant Airport.

Attractions to visit: Visit the famous Robber’s Cave and Sahastradhara to take a dip in its medicinal hot water springs. Visit the majestic Indian Military Academy and Forest Research Institute.

Activities to do: Try paragliding at the National Adventure Sports Academy. Soak in the serenity at the Mindrolling Monastery. Try delicious cakes at the famous Ellora.

Located in Uttarakhand, Lansdowne is one of the lesser-known tourist destinations which offers a quiet getaway into the magnificent Garhwal Hills. One of the best places to visit near Agra, this laidback colonial-style hill station has a stunning landscape of untouched lakes and forests.

Location/ Distance (from Agra Bus stand): 437 kilometres.

Best time/season to visit: March-June, and September.

How to reach:
Road: Take a bus from Delhi to Lansdowne.
Train: Take a train from Delhi to Kotdwar station and proceed via taxi.
Flight: No direct flights. Take a flight from Delhi to Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport and proceed via taxi.

Attractions to visit: Visit the tranquil Bhulla Lake to spend time in tranquil serenity of nature. See the beautiful architecture of St. John’s Church.

Activities to do: Enjoy a leisurely boat ride and bird watching at Bhulla Lake. Hike up till Tiffin Point and see the beautiful hillside sunrise Experience a jungle safari and see tigers at Kalagarh Tiger Reserve.

Located in Himachal Pradesh, this famous & charming hill station houses the world’s highest cricket stadium and hotel. Nestled amidst Shivalik range, the place is perfect for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Location/ Distance (from Agra Bus stand): 575 kilometres.

Best time/season to visit: March-June, and October-February.

How to reach:
Road: Reach Ambala via Sachkhand Express and proceed via private or state-run buses.
Train: The nearest station is Kalka after which Chail is reachable by taxi.
Flight: No direct flights. Reach New Delhi to reach Shimla Airport and proceed via taxi.

Attractions to visit: Visit Chail Palace & Cricket ground, both the highest in the world. See the ancient Sidh Baba Temple, Gurudwara, and Kaali Temple.

Activities to do: See exotic species of birds and animals at Chail Wildlife Sanctuary. Shop for woollens and handicrafts at the local bazaars. Try horseback riding.

A place that is known as ‘Queen of Hills’, needs no further introduction. Located in Uttarakhand, it is amongst the most popular weekend getaways from Agra and is famous for its lakes, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks, all amidst a charming colonial atmosphere.

Location/ Distance (from Agra Bus stand): 467 kilometres.

Best time/season to visit: March- June.

How to reach:
Road: Take Gatiman Express to reach Delhi and proceed via private or state-run buses.
Train: Take Dehradun Express from Agra to reach Dehradun and proceed via cab.
Flight: Reach New Delhi and take a flight to Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun.

Attractions to visit: Visit Lal Tibba, the highest point in the region to see panoramic views of Badrinath & Kedarnath peaks. See Kempty Falls, Camel’s Back Road and trek to Nag Tibba.

Activities to do: Indulge in a thrilling cable car ride at Gun Hill. Shop at Sisters Bazaar & Library Bazaar. Try paragliding & nature hikes.

Known as the ski destination of India, Auli is one of the most popular weekend getaways from Agra. This charming place in Himachal Pradesh is dotted with thick pines, deodar forests, and snow-capped mountains.

Location/ Distance (from Agra Bus stand): 593 kilometres.

Best time/season to visit: March-May, and October-February.

How to reach:
Road: Reach Haridwar via Utkal Express and proceed via taxi.
Train: Reach Rishikesh via train and proceed via taxi.
Flight: No direct flights. Reach Delhi and take a flight to Jolly Grant Airport. Proceed via taxi.

Attractions to visit: Visit Nanda Devi National Park, a UNESCO world heritage site. Visit Auli Lake, which is considered to be one of the highest man-made lakes in the world. See Nanda Devi peak from Gurso Bugyal. Visit Chenab Lake.

Activities to do: Try your hand at skiing. Take the country’s highest ropeway ride from Joshimath to Auli Gorson. Trek on the beautiful nature trails. See the Himalayan wildlife at Nanda Devi National Park.

The summer capital of British India, located in Himachal Pradesh, is one of the most popular weekend getaways from Agra. It is famous for its colonial charm and Victorian architecture amidst its mountainous landscape.

Location/ Distance (from Agra Bus stand): 598 kilometres.

Best time/season to visit: March-June, and October-February.

How to reach:
Road: No direct buses. Reach Ambala Cantt through Sachkhand Express and proceed via bus.
Train: Reach Ambala Cantt through Sachkhand Express and proceed via bus.
Flight: No direct flights. Take a flight from Delhi to Chandigarh and proceed via road.

Attractions to visit: Visit the open-air ice skating rink. See the beautiful Chadwick waterfalls. See the ancient Jakhu Temple and the majestic architecture of the Military Museum.

Activities to do: Ride the Kalka-Shimla toy train amidst the beautiful surroundings. Shop for souvenirs and handicrafts at Lakkar Bazaar. Try rafting at Tattapani.

Famously known as the winter sports capital of India, Kufri is amongst the must-visit places to visit near Agra especially for adventure enthusiasts. It promises to keep you enthralled with its natural beauty and interesting activities.

Location/ Distance (from Agra Bus stand): 596 kilometres.

Best time/season to visit: April-June, and December- February.

How to reach:
Road: Reach Delhi to take a direct bus.
Train: Take Sachkhand Express to Ambala and proceed via road.
Flight: Reach Delhi to take a flight to Chandigarh and proceed via road.

Attractions to visit: Visit Mahasu Peak to see the breathtaking scenery and the sunset. Visit Himalayan National Park to see exotic wildlife and plant species.

Activities to do: A must-do activity is skiing at the Kufri Ski Resort. Experience riding on the elusive yak. Try the rides and swings at Kufri Fun World amusement park. Try tobogganing.

Located in Himachal Pradesh and famous as the residence of the Dalai Lama, Dharamshala is a popular hillside getaway and amongst the top places to visit near Agra. The place is known for its spiritual ambience and majestic snowlines. 

Location/ Distance (from Agra Bus stand): 714 kilometres.

Best time/season to visit: March-June and October-February.

How to reach:
Road: No direct bus. Reach Delhi and proceed via private or state-run bus.
Train: Reach Jalandhar via Sachkhand Express and proceed via taxi.
Flight: Reach Delhi to take a direct flight to Dharamshala’s Gaggal Airport and proceed via taxi.

Attractions to visit: Visit the Dharamshala Cricket Ground, one of the highest in the world. See the majestic 18th-century St. John’s Church, War Memorial, Gyuto Monastery, and Bhagsu Falls.

Activities to do: Visit the beautiful tea gardens. Soak in the spirituality at the Jwala Devi Temple. Try meditation at the Dalai Lama Temple.

One of the most beautiful places to visit near Agra, Kullu is often referred to as ‘Valley of Gods’ for its pristine beauty.. It is dotted with lush green valleys, lakes, beautiful meadows, ancient temples, caves, and monasteries.

Location/ Distance (from Agra Bus stand): 751 kilometres.

Best time/season to visit: March-June, and October-November

How to reach:
Road: No direct bus. Reach Delhi via Gatiman Express and take a Volvo to Kullu.
Train: No direct trains. Take Sachkhand Express from Agra to Ambala and continue via bus.
Flight: No direct flights. Take a flight from New Delhi to Bhuntar Airport. 

Attractions to visit: Visit the Great Himalayan National Park to see exotic wildlife. See the ancient temples like those of Bijli Mahadev, Hanogi Mata, and Raghunath. Visit the Friendship Peak and Pandoh Dam.

Activities to do: See the famous Dussehra celebrations. Try river rafting and paragliding. Trek to the beautiful Prashar Lake, Malana, and Manikaran.

Known as ‘Amsterdam of India’, Kasol is a charming town in Himachal Pradesh and comes amongst the top weekend getaways from Agra. Located on the banks of River Parvati, it offers beautiful views of the snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and pine tree forests.

Location/ Distance (from Agra Bus stand): 771 kilometres.

Best time/season to visit: April-May, and October-November.

How to reach:
Road: No direct bus. Reach New Delhi to board a direct Volvo.
Train: No direct bus. Reach Ludhiana via Sachkhand Express and proceed via bus.
Flight: No direct flight. Reach Bhuntar airport from New Delhi and proceed via taxi.

Attractions to visit: Visit the nearby villages of Tosh, Rasol and Malana. Try hikes to Sar Pass, Pin Parvati & Kheerganga. Visit the local bazaar and the quaint cafes.

Activities to do: Hike and do a night camping near Parvati river banks. Try Israeli food and rice beer at The Evergreen Café & Buddha Place. Shop for local handicrafts and woolens.

One of the most beautiful places to visit near Agra, Manali in Himachal Pradesh, is famous for its mountain passes, glacial lakes, splendid waterfalls, charming little hamlets, and ancient temples.

Location/ Distance (from Agra Bus stand): 774 kilometres.

Best time/season to visit: March-June, and October-February.

How to reach:
Road: There is no direct bus. You need to reach Karnal and proceed via state-run or private buses.
Train: Take Sachkhand Express to reach Ambala and proceed via bus.
Flight: Reach Delhi and take a flight to Bhuntar Airport. Proceed via taxi.

Attractions to visit: See the ancient 15th-century Hidimba Devi Temple built in a beautiful pagoda-style. See the 4000-year-old Vashisht Temple and its hot water springs.

Activities to do: See animals like barking deer, Kashmir flying squirrel, Chakors, etc. at the Manali Sanctuary. Shop for Tibetan handicrafts and try delicious Pahari cuisine at the Mall Road.