Agra is a city located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is nestled on the banks of River Yamuna and was the former capital of Hindustan. Today, the city is a major travel destination that boasts 3 UNESCO listed World Heritage Sites including Tāj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpūr Sikrī. Agra, along with Delhi and Jaipur is part of the Golden Triangle tourism circuit of India. Below are some things you need to know about Agra.

1. How to get there

The best way to get to Agra is by train. There are two railway stations in Agra - Agra Fort and Agra Cantt. From any of these stations, you will pay approximately 100 rupees to your accommodation. Beware the unscrupulous taxi drivers who may ask for more than this.

2. Where to stay

Where you stay in Agra depends on your budget. For those on lean budgets, there are a number of guesthouses around Taj Mahal. They go for around 200 rupees per night. For the well-heeled, you can stay at Hotel-Taj Mahal for 800 rupees per night. Amazingly, you can see most of Taj Mahal from the hotel's top deck restaurant.

3. Getting around

Like in all Indian cities, getting around the city can be a nightmare. The best way to see the city is on foot. There are tour guides who will show you around, but most of the information they give you about the sights is usually readily available on the internet. Alternatively, you can use auto powered or animal powered rickshaw. Animal powered rickshaw gives you a more authentic feel of the city.

4. Sites to visit

Among the places you can visit includes the historic Taj Mahal, the Mughal built Agra Fort, the Tomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah popularly known as Baby Taj, Mehtab Bagh Gardens, Sadar Bazaar and many more. Make sure you see as many of Agra's tourist sites as possible. While at it, take a few photos and upload then on your Facebook timeline. They are good references of the fond memories you have had through the years.

5. What to eat

Agra is the Mughal cuisines capital. You will get to sample delicious dishes such as tandoori chicken and a stack of hot tandoori rotis at the affordable rate of 150 Indian Rupees at restaurants such as Mama Chicken House and Relax He Relax Garden Restaurant.

Of all the Indian cities, none is better than Agra to give you insights into the Mughal Empire way of life. It is quiet (by Indian standards) and inviting. The people are mostly friendly and will go out of their way to make your stay comfortable.