The culture of the city is a very mixed one with Hindus and Muslims living together from many centuries when Moghul emperors ruled the city. However, most of the local culture bears a characteristic resemblance to the traits borrowed from the Muslim rulers in arts and learning.
People
The people of Agra are very open and friendly and are very hospitable. In the past centuries Agra was the capital city where many kings and rulers had their centers of learning and craft and where all kinds of craftsmen were appreciated. This element of friendliness and hospitality is the hallmark of the Moghal rulers which the people of Agra still practice.
Weather
The city has an extreme and tropical climate and thus it is very hot in the summers when the temperature goes up to 45 degrees. The winters are quiet cool with a maximum temperature of 4 degrees. The winter days are often foggy with reduced visibility.
In the monsoon season from July to September the climate is humid with a heavy rainfall. For people visiting Agra for the first time, winter season is most comfortable.
Shopping
Coming to Agra and shopping are both delightful experiences. The mini replicas of Taj Mahal are on sale along with other exquisite artifacts. Agra is famous for its handicraft products such as inlay work on marble, leather work, footwear, brass work, carpets, jewelry and embroidered clothes and products. The main shopping areas in Agra are Sadar Bazaar, Kinari Bazaar and Munro Road. Most of the shopping complexes are located near Taj Mahal.
What to wear
Due to extreme hot weather in summers, light clothing is preferred. In winters when the weather is chilly, woolen clothes are used. The people in Agra wear traditional as well as modern western clothing. However, before going to mosques and tombs it necessary to wear proper clothes and cover one’s head.
Travel around
Agra is well connected to other parts of India as well as within the city. There is a network of buses that are available from all parts of the city as well as taxis and auto rickshaws that act as means of transportation. There are cars available on rent from the car rentals of the hotels as well as from private companies.
Health services
The health services in the city are quite satisfactory with many government and private hospitals that provide services to the residents and tourists. There are also a large number of pharmacies in the city that give medicines but before taking them in, the expiry dates should be checked. The prime hospitals in the city are District Hospital, Lady Lyall Hospital, Cantonment Hospital, Centre Jalma Institute of Leprosy Tajganj, T.B. Hospital Near, Ashoka Hospital, Medical Institute, and Sri Ram Hospital.
Nightlife
Amidst the beauty of culture and tradition, the facilities of recreation and entertainment are also present. Nightlife in the strict sense is restricted in Agra but there are places that strive to fill the space. A quiet evening or late night stroll around the Taj Mahal Complex is a very romantic as well as a touching experience. For a good time, the city provides cinemas, coffee shops, restaurants and bars. Downtown club is one of the best known bars in the city where alcohol drinks are served.
Business
People in Agra are engaged in different professions. Some people work in government offices while a majority is also engaged in private businesses. The industries of Agra that specialize in leather goods’ manufacturing are also a big source of income. People are also engaged in tourism business as Agra is one of the most visited tourist spots in India.
