The journey from Delhi to Agra is one of the most iconic trips in India, drawing travelers from across the globe to witness the magnificent Taj Mahal and other historical marvels. This comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know for a seamless and enriching journey.
Delhi to Agra Distance and Travel Time
The distance between Delhi and Agra is approximately 233 kilometers. Depending on your mode of transportation, travel time can range from 2 to 4 hours. The most popular modes of travel include train, car, bus, and air.
How to reach Agra from Delhi
1. Delhi to Agra Traveling by Train
Trains from Delhi to Agra
Trains are a convenient and popular option for traveling from Delhi to Agra. The Indian Railways operates several trains on this route, with the Gatimaan Express and Shatabdi Express being the fastest. These trains provide a quick and comfortable journey, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Gatimaan Express: India’s fastest train, it covers the distance in about 1 hour and 40 minutes.
- Shatabdi Express: Another fast option, with a travel time of approximately 2 hours.
Train Schedules and Booking
Trains to Agra depart from several major stations in Delhi, including New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS), Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station (NZM), and Anand Vihar Terminal (ANVT). It is advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. You can book tickets online through the IRCTC website or at railway reservation counters.
2. Delhi to Agra Traveling by Car
Driving from Delhi to Agra
Traveling by car offers the flexibility to explore various attractions along the way. The most common route is via the Yamuna Expressway, a modern, six-lane expressway that provides a smooth and fast drive. The travel time on this route is approximately 3 to 4 hours.
Car Rentals and Self-Drive Options
Car rentals are available in Delhi for those who prefer to drive themselves. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or use ride-sharing services. Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and carry essential documents like your driving license, vehicle registration, and insurance.
3. Delhi to Agra Traveling by Bus
Bus Services from Delhi to Agra
Buses are another economical and convenient mode of transportation. Several state-run and private buses operate on the Delhi-Agra route. The Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) provides regular bus services, including luxury and air-conditioned options.
Bus Terminals and Booking
Buses to Agra depart from major bus terminals in Delhi, such as the Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT) Kashmere Gate and the Sarai Kale Khan Bus Terminal. Tickets can be booked online through various travel websites or at the bus terminals.
4. Delhi to Agra Traveling by Air
Flights from Delhi to Agra
While not the most common choice due to the short distance, flights are available from Delhi to Agra. The Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi operates flights to the Agra Airport (AGR). The flight duration is about 1 hour, but when considering airport check-in times and transfers, it may not be the fastest option.
Travel Route to Prefer From Delhi to Agra
When traveling from Delhi to Agra, you have several routes to choose from, each offering different experiences in terms of travel time, scenery, and convenience. Here are the most preferred routes:
1. Yamuna Expressway
- Distance: Approximately 230 km
- Travel Time: Around 3-4 hours
- Highlights
- This is the fastest and most convenient route.
- The expressway is well-maintained and offers a smooth driving experience.
- There are multiple toll booths along the way, so keep cash or a FASTag handy.
- Fuel stations and food courts are available at regular intervals.
2. NH19 (formerly NH2) via Mathura
- Distance: Approximately 210 km
- Travel Time: Around 4-5 hours
- Highlights:
- This route takes you through Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna.
- It’s a good option if you want to explore Mathura and Vrindavan on the way.
- The road conditions are generally good, but it can get crowded, especially around towns and cities.
3. DND Flyway + Yamuna Expressway
- Distance: Approximately 230 km
- Travel Time: Around 3-4 hours
- Highlights:
- Start from Delhi’s DND Flyway, merge onto the Yamuna Expressway.
- This route combines the ease of the DND Flyway with the speed of the Yamuna Expressway.
- It’s an excellent choice for a fast and hassle-free journey.
4. Taj Express Highway (NH44)
- Distance: Approximately 230 km
- Travel Time: Around 4-5 hours
- Highlights:
- Also known as the Taj Express Highway, this route is another good option for a smooth drive.
- It’s parallel to the Yamuna Expressway but may have more traffic depending on the time of day.
- This route provides scenic views and is well-connected to nearby cities.
Choosing the right route depends on your preferences for travel time, stops along the way, and road conditions. The Yamuna Expressway is the most preferred for a fast and comfortable trip, but the NH19 route offers the opportunity to explore historical and cultural sites.
Best month to Visit Agra
The best time to visit Agra is during the winter months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. Summers (April to June) can be extremely hot, while the monsoon season (July to September) brings heavy rains and humidity.
Tourist Place in Agra
Once in Agra, several must-visit attractions await you:
- Taj Mahal: The iconic symbol of love, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture.
- Agra Fort: A historical fort that was the main residence of the Mughal emperors until 1638.
- Fatehpur Sikri: An ancient city and another UNESCO World Heritage Site, located about 40 kilometers from Agra.
- Mehtab Bagh: A garden complex situated across the Yamuna River, offering a stunning view of the Taj Mahal.
Taj Mahal is closed for visitors
The Taj Mahal is closed to visitors every Friday. It remains open on all other days of the week.
Railway Station near to the Taj Mahal
The nearest railway station to the Taj Mahal is Agra Cantonment (Agra Cantt) Railway Station. It is located about 6 kilometers from the Taj Mahal and is the main railway station in Agra, well-connected to major cities across India.
Entry fee for the Taj Mahal
- Indian citizens: ₹50
- Foreign tourists: ₹1100
- Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries: ₹540
- There is an additional charge of ₹200 for visiting the main mausoleum.
- These fees are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check.
Taj Mahal is less crowded
The Taj Mahal is generally less crowded on weekdays, particularly on Mondays and Thursdays. Early mornings and late afternoons on these days tend to have fewer visitors. To avoid large crowds, it’s best to visit during the off-peak tourist seasons, which are from April to September, excluding public holidays and school vacation periods.
Best entry gate for visiting the Taj Mahal
The best entry gate for visiting the Taj Mahal is the East Gate (also known as the VIP Gate or Gate 1). This gate is often recommended because it typically has shorter queues compared to the South and West Gates, especially during peak tourist seasons. It provides a direct and convenient access to the main complex of the Taj Mahal.
Weather Night entry allowed in Taj Mahal
Yes, night entry is allowed at the Taj Mahal, but it is only available on five specific nights each month: the full moon night and the two nights before and after the full moon. Night viewing tickets must be purchased in advance, and there are specific time slots for the visit, typically starting from 8:30 PM to 12:30 AM. Each slot lasts for about 30 minutes, and the number of visitors per slot is limited to ensure a serene experience.
Famous Dishes of Agra
Agra is also famous for its delectable cuisine. Don’t miss trying local specialties such as Petha (a sweet made from ash gourd), Bedai and Jalebi (a popular breakfast combo), and Mughlai dishes that reflect the city’s rich culinary heritage.
Taxi fare from Delhi to Agra
The taxi fare from Delhi to Agra can vary depending on the type of taxi, the service provider, and any additional charges such as tolls and taxes. On average, the fare for a one-way trip in a standard sedan (like a Swift Dzire or Honda Amaze) ranges from ₹2,500 to ₹4,000. For larger vehicles like SUVs (such as an Innova), the fare can range from ₹4,000 to ₹6,000.
It’s always a good idea to check with multiple taxi service providers for the most accurate and competitive rates before booking.
Bus fare from Delhi to Agra
The bus fare from Delhi to Agra can vary depending on the type of bus and the service provider. Generally, the fares are as follows:
- Ordinary non-AC buses: ₹150 to ₹300
- AC buses: ₹300 to ₹600
- Luxury and Volvo buses: ₹600 to ₹1,200
Toilet facility available in Taj Mahal
Yes, toilets are available at the Taj Mahal. There are facilities for visitors located near the entry gates, including the East Gate, West Gate, and South Gate. These restrooms are maintained for the convenience of tourists.
luggage allowed in the Taj Mahal
Large luggage is not allowed inside the Taj Mahal for security reasons. Only small bags and essential items are permitted. There are cloakrooms available near the entry gates where visitors can store their larger luggage and belongings before entering the monument. It is advisable to carry only necessary items during your visit.
ID required in the Taj Mahal
Yes, a valid ID is required for entry into the Taj Mahal. Visitors need to present a government-issued ID card, such as a passport, Aadhaar card, voter ID, or driver’s license, at the entry gate for verification purposes. This requirement helps in ensuring security and proper identification of visitors to the monument.
Mobile phone allowed inside the Taj Mahal
Yes, mobile phones are allowed inside the Taj Mahal. However, they must be kept on silent mode and photography is restricted in certain areas inside the monument to preserve its integrity.
Guide cost in Taj Mahal
The cost of hiring a guide at the Taj Mahal can vary depending on the duration of the tour and the guide’s expertise. Generally, the rates start from around ₹500 to ₹1000 or more for a guided tour. It’s advisable to negotiate the price beforehand and ensure that the guide is authorized by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to conduct tours at the Taj Mahal.
Travel Tips and Safety while Travelling from Delhi to agra
- Carry Identification: Always carry a government-issued ID.
- Stay Hydrated: Agra can be hot, especially in summer, so keep yourself hydrated.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for long walks and exploring historical sites.
- Beware of Scams: Be cautious of touts and guides offering unsolicited services.
- Respect Local Culture: Follow local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
Summary
The journey from Delhi to Agra is not just about reaching a destination; it’s about experiencing the rich history and culture of India. Whether you choose to travel by train, car, bus, or air, each mode offers a unique perspective of this iconic route. Plan your trip well, book your tickets in advance, and immerse yourself in the wonders of Agra.
Delhi Travel Guide
