How to Plan Taj Mahal Tour from Delhi

The Taj Mahal is located on the southern bank of the Yamuna River in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India. Built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is renowned for its breathtaking white marble architecture and its emotional significance as a symbol of eternal love. Construction began in 1632 and was completed in 1653. The Taj Mahal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts millions of tourists every year, making it a must-see destination on a Taj Mahal Trip from Delhi.

2. Why Visit the Taj Mahal?

The Taj Mahal stands as a testament to the grandeur of Mughal architecture and is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. The monument combines elements of Persian, Ottoman Turkish, and Indian architectural styles, making it a masterpiece of Islamic art. Visitors to the Taj Mahal are drawn not only by its beauty but also by its historical and cultural significance.

3. Best Time to Visit the Taj Mahal

Ideal Seasons:

Winter (October to March): This is the most favorable time to visit the Taj Mahal as the weather is cooler and pleasant, making your tour more comfortable. The temperatures during the day usually hover between 10°C and 25°C (50°F to 77°F), which is perfect for sightseeing.
Monsoon (June to September): The Taj Mahal is still open during the monsoon, but the heavy rainfall can make outdoor activities less enjoyable. It’s not the best time to visit, as the wet conditions can cause disruptions.
Summer (April to June): Summer in Agra can be sweltering, with temperatures reaching up to 45°C (113°F). If you choose to visit during this time, be prepared for intense heat and plan to visit early in the morning to avoid the midday sun.

Best Time of Day:

Early Morning (at sunrise): This is the best time to visit the Taj Mahal to avoid the crowds and enjoy the monument in soft, golden light. The early morning calm offers a magical experience, and you can catch a glimpse of the Taj Mahal's reflection in the nearby water bodies.
Late Afternoon (before sunset): Another great time to visit is just before sunset when the monument is bathed in a warm, reddish glow. The late afternoon hours also offer a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the midday rush.

4. How to Get to the Taj Mahal from Delhi

There are several ways to travel from Delhi to Agra, each offering different levels of comfort and convenience. Here are the most popular options:

4.1 By Train

The Shatabdi Express and Gatimaan Express are the fastest and most popular trains running between Delhi and Agra. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours.

Shatabdi Express: Departs from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) and arrives at Agra Cantt. Station. It’s a fully air-conditioned, high-speed train.
Gatimaan Express: The fastest train connecting Delhi and Agra, it departs from Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station and takes around 1.5 hours to reach Agra.

Train tickets can be booked online via the Indian Railways website or through various third-party platforms. Make sure to book your tickets in advance to secure a seat.

4.2 By Car/Private Taxi

If you prefer a more flexible and comfortable option, hiring a private taxi or car from Delhi to Agra is an excellent choice. The drive takes around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic conditions. The Yamuna Expressway, a toll road, connects Delhi and Agra and offers a smooth and fast ride.

You can book a taxi through a travel agency or use popular ride-sharing services like Ola or Uber for a more spontaneous trip. Hiring a private car offers the advantage of stopping along the way for photos, meals, or rest breaks.

4.3 By Bus

There are several state-run and private buses that connect Delhi to Agra. Buses are a cheaper option, but they are not as fast or comfortable as trains or private cars. The journey can take anywhere from 4 to 6 hours, depending on traffic.

UP Roadways: The state-owned bus service offers both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned buses.
Private Operators: Several private bus operators also run services between Delhi and Agra. The buses can be booked online.

4.4 By Flight

While there are flights from Delhi to Agra, it’s not a practical choice due to the short distance between the two cities. The nearest airport to the Taj Mahal is Agra’s Kheria Airport (AGR), but flight schedules may not be as frequent as those for other major cities.

5. Taj Mahal Entrance Tickets

5.1 Entry Fee and Booking

The Taj Mahal charges an entrance fee for both Indian and foreign visitors. The prices are as follows (subject to change, so check the official website for the latest):

Indian Citizens: ₹50 (for entry)
Foreign Tourists: ₹1,100 (for entry)
Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries: ₹540 (for entry)

You can purchase tickets at the entrance or book them online through the official Taj Mahal website or authorized ticketing platforms. It’s advisable to book online to avoid long queues at the ticket counter.

5.2 Taj Mahal Timings

Opening Hours: The Taj Mahal is open from sunrise to sunset, seven days a week.
Closed on Fridays: The Taj Mahal is closed to visitors on Fridays for prayer, but you can still view it from the outside.

6. What to Expect at the Taj Mahal

6.1 The Architecture and Layout

The Taj Mahal is an exquisite example of Mughal architecture, with intricate carvings, geometric patterns, and elegant minarets. The monument is set in a large complex that includes the main mausoleum, a mosque, a guest house, and formal gardens.

The central structure, made of pristine white marble, features a large dome surrounded by smaller domes and four towering minarets. The Taj Mahal’s reflection in the large pool in front of the building adds to its beauty.

6.2 The Gardens and Reflection Pool

The Taj Mahal is set in a symmetrical garden known as the Char Bagh (four gardens), a traditional Persian style layout. The long central waterway, flanked by pathways, creates a stunning reflection of the monument.

6.3 The Main Mausoleum and Inner Chamber

The inner chamber houses the tombs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal. Visitors can enter the mausoleum and admire the delicate inlay work and marble lattice screens that surround the tombs. The tombs themselves are not the actual burial sites, which are located in a lower chamber.

7. Additional Attractions in Agra

While the Taj Mahal is the highlight of the Agra region, there are several other attractions worth visiting:

7.1 Agra Fort

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Agra Fort is a magnificent red sandstone fortress that once served as the seat of the Mughal Empire. It is located around 2.5 kilometers from the Taj Mahal and offers stunning views of the Taj from its towers.

7.2 Fatehpur Sikri

Located about 40 kilometers from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is an abandoned city built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century. The city is known for its unique blend of Islamic, Hindu, and Persian architectural styles.

7.3 Mehtab Bagh

This garden is located on the opposite side of the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal and offers a great view of the monument, especially during sunset.

8. Tips for a Successful Visit

8.1 Dress Code and Etiquette

Dress Modestly: While there is no strict dress code, it’s advisable to wear modest, comfortable clothing. Avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless tops.
Footwear: You’ll be required to remove your shoes when entering the mausoleum. It’s best to wear comfortable socks or sandals.
Respect the Monument: The Taj Mahal is a sacred site for many, so be respectful while exploring.

8.2 Photography Tips

No Tripods: Tripods are not allowed inside the Taj Mahal, but you can take photographs with your camera or phone.
Best Angles: For the best photos, position yourself at the central reflecting pool, as it offers an iconic view of the Taj Mahal.

8.3 Staying Hydrated

Agra can get very hot, so it’s important to stay hydrated. Carry a bottle of water, especially during the summer months.

9. Where to Eat in Agra

Agra has a variety of dining options, ranging from local street food to upscale restaurants. Some of the popular choices include:

Pinch of Spice for Indian cuisine.
Esphahan for a luxurious dining experience.
Shankar Sweet House for authentic Agra sweets.

10. Where to Stay in Agra

Agra offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets:

Luxury Hotels: The Oberoi Amarvilas, ITC Mughal, and Tajview are some of the top luxury hotels near the Taj Mahal.
Budget Hotels: There are numerous budget-friendly guesthouses and hotels around the Taj Mahal, offering basic amenities.

11. How to Plan a Day Trip vs. Overnight Stay

Day Trip: If you’re pressed for time, a day trip from Delhi to Agra is feasible, especially by train. You can visit the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Mehtab Bagh in one day.
Overnight Stay: If you prefer a more relaxed pace, consider staying overnight in Agra. This allows you to visit the Taj Mahal at both sunrise and sunset and explore more attractions in the area.

12. Conclusion

Visiting the Taj Mahal is a dream for many travelers, and with proper planning, it can be an unforgettable experience. Whether you are traveling from Delhi on a day trip or staying overnight in Agra, make sure to plan ahead to maximize your time and enjoyment. The Taj Mahal’s beauty, history, and emotional significance make it one of the most remarkable attractions in the world, and it is well worth the effort to see it in person.