Sunrise at Taj Mahal
Wake at 4:30, queue by 5:30, enter at 6. The world is quiet, the marble glows, and for thirty minutes you own the most beautiful building ever made. Bring a shawl; mornings are cold October-March.
Things to do in Agra
Moonrise from Mehtab Bagh
Full-moon nights the Taj opens till midnight (check dates). Or just sit across the river at Mehtab Bagh and watch it glow silver. Couples propose here daily; the monument is a professional wingman.
Eat petha and kebabs at Panchhi Petha & Bhaiyyaji kebab
Morning for soft, fresh petha straight from the factory. Night for smoky kebabs near Sadar Bazaar. Your taste buds will thank you, your diet will file a complaint.
Boat ride on Yamuna behind the
Taj Early morning or sunset. Locals row you quietly while birds fly overhead and the Taj reflects perfectly. Costs ₹200-300 per person, lasts 30 minutes of pure peace.
Shop marble inlay work at Oswal or Subhash Emporium
Watch craftsmen cut stone thinner than paper, drink their chai, bargain hard. A small tabletop leaves with you; the big ones ship home. Way cheaper than airport prices.
Rooftop dinner overlooking the Taj
Hotels like Oberoi Amarvilas charge the earth, but smaller places near Taj Ganj have ₹500 thalis with million-dollar views. Cold beer, hot kebabs, glowing marble-perfect last night.