Current time in Agra, India

Agra is located in the northern part of India at coordinates 27.18333, 78.01667, within the state of Uttar Pradesh. The city is a prominent tourist destination, primarily known for the iconic Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of love, attracting millions of visitors each year. Agra operates in the Asia/Kolkata timezone, which is UTC+5:30.

Besides the Taj Mahal, the city is also famous for Agra Fort and the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, contributing to its cultural significance. Agra serves as a key hub in the Golden Triangle tourist circuit, linking it with Delhi and Jaipur, enhancing its regional importance in terms of tourism and economy.

Timezone in Agra

Agra is located in the Asia/Kolkata timezone, which has a UTC offset of +5:30. This means that Agra is 5 hours and 30 minutes ahead of Coordinated Universal Time. India does not observe daylight saving time, so this offset remains constant throughout the year.

Standard time is maintained, with no seasonal changes affecting the clock. When comparing Agra’s timezone to that of the United States, there can be significant differences. For instance, New York operates on Eastern Standard Time, which is UTC-5, and during daylight saving time, it shifts to UTC-4.

This means that there can be an 11.5 to 9.5 hour difference depending on the time of year. Consequently, the best time to contact someone in Agra would be during the late evening in the United States, ideally between 8 PM and 11 PM Eastern Time, allowing for a reasonable window during daytime hours in Agra. In comparison with other major cities in India, such as Mumbai and Delhi, Agra shares the same UTC+5:30 timezone.

This consistency makes scheduling across these cities straightforward, as there are no additional time differences to consider.

Attractions and Activities in Agra

Agra, located in northern India, is renowned for its rich Mughal history and architectural marvels. The city is best known for the iconic Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This magnificent white marble mausoleum was commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal and attracts millions of visitors each year.

Alongside the Taj Mahal, the Agra Fort, another UNESCO site, showcases impressive Mughal architecture and offers insights into the region’s royal past. Culturally, Agra is vibrant, with a mix of traditional crafts, including marble inlay work and leather goods, reflecting its historical significance as a center of artistry during the Mughal era. The city also hosts various festivals, such as the Taj Mahotsav, celebrating art and culture through performances, crafts, and cuisine.

The regional landscape includes the Yamuna River, which adds to the scenic beauty of Agra and its surroundings, enhancing its appeal as a significant cultural and historical destination in India.

Practical Information for Visitors

Agra can be reached conveniently via the Kheria Airport, which is about 13 kilometers from the city center, but it has limited flight options. Alternatively, Agra is well-connected by train, with the Agra Cantt railway station serving numerous routes, making it a popular choice for travelers. For those traveling by bus, there are various state-run and private buses from major cities like Delhi and Jaipur.

The climate in Agra is typically hot and dry, with summer temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius. Winters, from November to February, are much cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 5 degrees Celsius at night. The best time to visit Agra is between October and March when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing.

When visiting Agra, be sure to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Carry water and wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking, particularly around the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. It’s advisable to book tickets online for major attractions to avoid long queues.

Lastly, be prepared for crowds, especially during weekends and holidays.