Taj Mahal Tour by Train – A Convenient and Scenic Journey to India’s Iconic Monument
Dreaming of seeing the Taj Mahal but don’t want to spend hours in road traffic? The Taj Mahal tour by train is a perfect solution that offers comfort, speed, and an authentic travel experience. With modern express trains connecting Delhi to Agra in under two hours, visiting the world-famous monument has never been easier. It’s a day packed with history, beauty, and unforgettable sights—all without the stress of long drives.

Why Choose a Train Tour to the Taj Mahal?
Trains are not only faster than cars but also offer a glimpse into local life. The Gatimaan Express and Shatabdi Express are among the most popular options, known for their punctuality, comfort, and onboard meals. You get to sit back, relax, and enjoy the countryside scenery while heading toward India’s most celebrated destination.

The Best Trains for Taj Mahal Tour from Delhi
Gatimaan Express

Departure: Hazrat Nizamuddin (Delhi) – 8:10 AM

Arrival: Agra Cantt – 9:50 AM

Return: 5:45 PM from Agra

Travel Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Facilities: Executive Class and Chair Car, onboard breakfast, clean washrooms

Shatabdi Express

Departure: New Delhi Railway Station – 6:00 AM

Arrival: Agra Cantt – 7:57 AM

Return: 8:30 PM from Agra

Slightly older but still very comfortable with good meal service

Both options allow you a full day in Agra, making them ideal for same-day round trips.

What to Expect on the Tour
Your journey begins with an early morning train ride from Delhi. Most Taj Mahal train tours include hotel pickup and drop-off, so you don’t need to worry about getting to the station on your own. Once you arrive in Agra, a local guide and private car usually meet you at the station to start the sightseeing.

1. The Taj Mahal – First Stop, First Wonder
Upon arrival in Agra, the first stop is usually the Taj Mahal—and rightly so. This white marble marvel is everything you’ve imagined and more. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, it’s a symbol of eternal love. Early morning visits offer the best lighting for photographs and a chance to beat the crowds.

2. Agra Fort – A Mughal Powerhouse
Next, head to the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located just 2.5 km from the Taj. This massive red sandstone fortress served as the residence of the Mughal emperors and offers stunning views of the Yamuna River and even the Taj Mahal from certain spots.

3. Mehtab Bagh – The Perfect Sunset Viewpoint
If time allows, cross the river to Mehtab Bagh, a garden complex that aligns perfectly with the Taj Mahal. It's a photographer’s paradise, especially in the late afternoon when the soft sunlight reflects beautifully off the monument.

4. Itmad-ud-Daulah – The “Baby Taj”
This lesser-known but incredibly intricate tomb is often considered a draft version of the Taj Mahal. It's worth a quick visit if you’re a fan of Mughal architecture.

Lunch and Local Cuisine
Most tours include a lunch stop at a local restaurant or hotel. Agra’s food scene is rich with North Indian flavors—think mughlai curries, tandoori dishes, paneer butter masala, and the must-try Agra ka Petha, a translucent sweet made from ash gourd.

Return Journey to Delhi
After a fulfilling day of sightseeing and culinary indulgence, you’ll board your return train in the late afternoon or early evening. You’ll reach Delhi by 7:30 PM (Gatimaan) or 10:30 PM (Shatabdi), depending on your chosen service. Some tours even include a dinner box on the way back.

What’s Included in Most Train Tours
Round-trip train tickets (Executive Class or Chair Car)

Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Delhi

AC vehicle for sightseeing in Agra

Professional English-speaking guide

Monument entry tickets (optional in premium packages)

Lunch at a reputable restaurant

Best Time for the Taj Mahal Train Tour
The most comfortable months are October to March, when the weather is cooler and more pleasant. Sunrise and sunset times also align better with sightseeing hours during this season.

What to Pack and Wear
Government-issued ID (required for train travel and monument entry)

Comfortable walking shoes

Sunglasses and sunscreen

Light scarf or shawl (for modesty at religious sites)

Camera or smartphone (tripods are not allowed inside monuments)

Benefits of the Taj Mahal Train Tour
Time-saving: Faster than road travel

Less tiring: Sit back and relax with onboard services

All-inclusive options: Everything from transport to meals can be covered

Safe and convenient: No need to navigate traffic or directions

Ideal for short stays: Perfect if you’re visiting India on a tight schedule

Conclusion
A Taj Mahal tour by train from Delhi is an efficient, exciting, and elegant way to explore India’s most iconic monument. With high-speed trains, experienced guides, and well-planned itineraries, you get the most out of a single day without the usual travel fatigue. Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer, or just someone who appreciates incredible beauty, this tour promises memories that will last a lifetime.

FAQs
1. Is it safe to travel by train from Delhi to Agra?
Yes, trains like Gatimaan and Shatabdi are safe, clean, and used frequently by tourists and locals alike.

2. Can I do a Taj Mahal tour by train in one day?
Absolutely. The schedule allows for a full day of sightseeing in Agra with a comfortable return to Delhi.

3. Are meals provided on the train?
Yes, both Gatimaan and Shatabdi Express include meal service (breakfast/dinner) in their fare.

4. Do I need to book train tickets in advance?
Yes, it’s best to book at least a few days in advance, especially during peak travel season.

5. What’s the difference between Executive and Chair Car classes?
Executive Class offers more spacious seats, better food, and fewer passengers per coach than Chair Car.