Agra, India | World’s Best Cities

Agra, India

For most, Agra is synonymous with the Taj Mahal, that enduring monument to love and architectural perfection. But the city, straddling the banks of the Yamuna River, is striving to balance its Mughal-era grandeur with the demands of modern urban life. Start with a stroll through Mehtab Bagh, the riverside garden perfectly aligned with the Taj Mahal. At dusk, locals and tourists mingle here, captivated by the symmetry of Shah Jahan’s masterpiece mirrored in the Yamuna’s waters. They’ll document their experiences in the #30-ranked Tripadvisor Reviews and the #35-ranked Facebook Check-ins. Nearby, the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, whispers tales of emperors and intrigue. 

Economic ambition courses through Agra’s industrial hubs, where small and medium enterprises specialize in leather goods, marble inlay work and handicrafts. The Taj Leather Cluster has become a vital economic engine, employing thousands and exporting products globally. Efforts are underway to expand the city’s reach, with the Agra Metro, expected to launch by 2025, promising to transform urban mobility and enhance connectivity for its residents. Additionally, investments like the Agra Smart City Project are revamping infrastructure, including better water management and renewable energy projects, while the Heritage Street Redevelopment Plan has revitalized the pathways leading to the Taj Mahal.