Things To Do
in Sikandra

A lively market near the Taj area where you can sample petha, chaat, and local snacks while shopping for handicrafts and souvenirs.

Smaller alleys with street food stalls serving kebabs, samosas, and quick vegetarian chaat — good for evening snacking and people-watching.

Dress conservatively, especially at religious sites — cover shoulders and knees for both men and women to respect local norms.

Remove shoes and hats when entering mosques, some temples, and certain historic interiors; follow signage and attendant instructions.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially women and in religious contexts; some monuments may restrict photography in certain areas.

Use respectful greetings such as ‘Namaste’ and address elders with courtesy; bargaining in markets is normal but stay polite.

Tipping is appreciated: round up small bills for porters and staff, give 5–10% in restaurants if service is not included, and tip guides and drivers modestly (INR-equivalent of a few dollars).

Cash (Indian rupees) is widely used for markets, rickshaws, and small shops. Cards are accepted at hotels and larger restaurants; mobile UPI payments and wallets (Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm) are popular locally. Carry small notes and check ATM availability in Agra for cash withdrawals.

April to June are hot and dry, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). Plan early-morning activities, stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and expect some closures for midday heat.

July to September bring intermittent rains and humid conditions; showers cool the air but can make streets slippery and dusty sites muddy. Carry a light rain jacket and waterproof footwear.

November to February is cool and pleasant, with chilly mornings and evenings (5–15°C / 41–59°F) ideal for sightseeing and photography; this is peak tourist season, so book ahead.

March–April and October–November offer comfortable temperatures and clear skies — great for exploring monuments and day trips; crowds moderate outside winter peak.

The closest airport (~12–15 km), offering limited domestic flights; convenient for private charters and some scheduled services; taxi transfers to Sikandra take around 30 minutes depending on traffic.

Major international airport about 200–220 km from Sikandra (3.5–4.5 hours by road or 2–3 hours by train to Agra), with frequent domestic connections and many international options.

Regional airport roughly 120 km away offering limited domestic flights; feasible alternative depending on connections and travel plans.

About 230–250 km away; another option for domestic/international connections, often used when combining Agra with Rajasthan itineraries.

Many residents are from longstanding local families involved in trade, services, and agriculture in the surrounding region; local culture is steeped in Braj traditions.

Significant Muslim population with historical ties to Mughal-era crafts, cuisine, and religious institutions — visible in markets and around mosque precincts.

Skilled workers in marble inlay, stone carving, and handicrafts who support Agra’s heritage tourism economy; many small workshops and family-run enterprises operate nearby.

Hotel staff, guides, drivers, and shopkeepers who serve the steady stream of visitors to Agra and surrounding heritage sites.

Vegetarian food is widely available and varied; many eateries offer paneer, dal, sabzi and chaat. Ask to confirm ingredients for mixed dishes (ghee vs. vegetable oil) if you prefer no animal products.

Vegan options exist but require asking restaurants to omit ghee, butter, and yogurt. Street food often uses dairy — request oil-only preparations and check sauces.

Rice-based dishes like biryani and many curries are naturally gluten-free, but breads (roti, naan) contain wheat; clarify cross-contamination at busy street stalls.

Halal meat is commonly available; if you require it, ask at restaurants or seek Muslim-run eateries. Many vegetarian establishments are appropriate for those avoiding meat.