Howard Plaza The Fern Agra sits in the Fatehabad Road area, the main hotel belt of Agra, where most of the city's mid-range and upper-range hotels, restaurants and shops are concentrated. It is a sensible choice for travellers who want comfortable rooms, a range of facilities and easy access to the Taj Mahal without paying for a hotel with a view. The Fern brand is known for its focus on eco-friendly practices, and the property is geared to both leisure and business guests, so you can expect a professional rather than a palatial atmosphere. For a city where most visits are short and sightseeing-heavy, a reliable hotel with good food and a quiet room is often the better investment than a headline address.
Location and getting around
Fatehabad Road is a busy road, but the Taj Mahal is only a short drive away, and the Taj East Gate, Agra Fort and Mehtab Bagh are all reachable by car or tuk-tuk. For a sunrise visit, arrange your driver the evening before and allow extra time for traffic and security. Because the Taj is closed on Fridays, plan Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri or a day trip for that day.
Rooms and facilities
Expect air conditioned rooms of different grades, with larger rooms and suites for families or longer stays. Typical facilities in a hotel of this kind include a restaurant serving Indian and international dishes, a bar or lounge, a swimming pool, a fitness area, meeting rooms and a travel desk. Details can vary and change, so check the facilities that matter most to you, such as pool opening hours, airport or station pick-ups, breakfast arrangements and parking, before you book.
Who it suits
The hotel works well for couples, families and groups who want a dependable base, and for business travellers who need meeting space. It is not the choice if a Taj view from your window is the priority, and if so you should compare it with the Oberoi Amarvilas or Taj Agra. Rates are typically moderate for the facilities, and the cooler months from October to March are busiest, so reserve early if you plan to travel in the winter holidays.
Making the most of the stay
Use the travel desk to organise your Taj Mahal timing, a licensed guide and a car for the day, and ask about early breakfast boxes for sunrise visits. In the evening, the road offers many restaurants, and a short drive takes you to rooftop cafes with views of the monument.
After a hot day, the pool is a welcome retreat, and a quiet room away from the road will make a big difference to your sleep. Confirm check-in and check-out times, and ask about late departures if your train is in the evening.
Why stay here
- ✓Fatehabad Road location
- ✓Short drive to the Taj Mahal
- ✓Air conditioned rooms
- ✓Swimming pool
- ✓Restaurant and bar
- ✓Fitness area
- ✓Meeting rooms
- ✓Travel desk and car hire
Good questions
How far is it from the Taj Mahal?+
It is a short drive, usually well under half an hour in normal traffic, depending on the gate and time of day.
Does it have Taj Mahal views?+
It is not known for Taj views. The Oberoi Amarvilas and Taj Agra are better choices if that matters most.
Is it suitable for families?+
Yes. The pool, restaurant and a range of room types make it a practical base, but check family room options when you book.
