Agra and Jaipur are the two most touristic cities in northern India. Agra is the ancient capital of the country and lies in the splendid plains surrounding the Yamuna River, while Jaipur is the capital of the Rajasthan desert, with its unique cultural traditions. Tourists most often visit these two cities and Delhi; the visit of the three cities is known as the Golden Triangle Tour, which lasts between 7 and 10 days. Some tourists cannot visit the three cities and choose to visit either Jaipur or Agra. This guide has been specially designed for them, to give them an overview of both cities and to help them organize their dream holiday in India.

Jaipur or Agra- the main monuments

The story of Jaipur was very eventful; this is reflected in the architecture and monuments of the city: fortresses, palaces and temples, more numerous than in Agra. Among the attractions of the city of Jaipur are the Nahargarh Fortress and the Amber Fortress, while the Water Palace, City Palace and Palace of the Winds testify to the richness of the city.

Agra has only one tourist attraction, but it is probably the most beautiful monument on the Asian continent – the Taj Mahal, which is both a delicate and imposing architecture and is actually larger than in the imagination of the visitors. From a distance, the massive construction in pure white marble catches the eye; the visitors are fascinated by the precise and delicate details. The Taj Mahal is a real gem and a must-see monument. The only other attraction in Agra is the Red Fortress, which can be visited after visiting the Taj Mahal. Jaipur is very rich in tourist attractions, but the only attraction of Agra- Taj Mahal- is really beautiful.

How long does it take to visit Agra or Jaipur?

To soak up the atmosphere of the city of Jaipur, it takes three days; for tourists in a hurry, two days are enough to visit the main monuments and attractions. Agra has only one tourist attraction, the Taj Mahal, which is never as beautiful as under the rays of the rising sun; you will have to plan to be here at dawn.

To get to Agra, you can make the 200 km between Delhi and Agra by train or bus. For visitors who cannot or will not visit Jaipur, a visit to Delhi and Agra is the ideal solution.

The reception of tourists in Jaipur and Agra

Jaipur and Agra have all the advantages and disadvantages of a strong tourist development. Tourists are often harassed by street vendors, taxi drivers charge exorbitant prices, and any purchase is preceded by fierce bargaining.

The disparities between the rich and the poor are very easy to see and the infrastructure problems are just as visible. These problems are particularly prevalent in Jaipur because of the size of the city, but Agra has the same disadvantages on a smaller scale. Jaipur hotels are cleaner and more elegant, but visitors will easily find a hotel that will meet their needs in both cities.

How to get to Agra and Jaipur?

The main international airport of the country is in Delhi; all foreign visitors usually stop there before or after visiting northern India. You can easily reach Agra and Jaipur from Delhi: Agra is located at a distance of 213 km south of Delhi, Jaipur 270 km in a southwesterly direction. The distance between Agra and Jaipur is 240 km. The rail network is well developed in the region and tourists can visit Agra in one day from Delhi, but not from Jaipur. 

Jaipur or Agra? Conclusion

When Jaipur and Agra are compared as tourist destinations, Jaipur is slightly ahead, thanks to its many attractions and offers more suited to foreign tourists. However, the Taj Mahal, located in Agra, is the most important tourist attraction in the country and must be part of any itinerary, knowing that one day is enough to visit Agra. On the other hand, you cannot make a round trip Jaipur-Delhi in one day.