Taj Mahal tour by train
Taj Mahal tour by train
Blog Article
Taj Mahal Tour by Train
If there’s one monument in the world that whispers stories of eternal love while dazzling you with architectural brilliance, it’s the Taj Mahal. A shimmering white marvel nestled in Agra, India, this UNESCO World Heritage Site draws millions of visitors every year. And what better way to explore it than by embarking on a train journey, immersing yourself in the local culture and rhythm of the land?
Why Take a Train to the Taj Mahal?
Train travel in India is an experience in itself. It’s more than just getting from point A to B — it’s a vibrant, colorful ride through towns, cities, and landscapes that are as diverse as they are breathtaking. Whether you’re a solo traveler or with family, taking a train to the Taj Mahal is not only convenient but also budget-friendly and authentic.
The Best Time to Visit the Taj Mahal
Timing matters. The ideal months to plan your Taj Mahal tour are from October to March. The weather during this time is cool and pleasant, perfect for exploring without sweating buckets. If you’re aiming for that dreamy sunrise photo, try to visit between November and February, when the sky turns golden and adds a surreal backdrop to the monument.
Top Train Routes to Agra
Delhi to Agra
This is the most popular route, and for good reason — it’s fast, affordable, and well-connected. You can board early morning trains like the Gatimaan Express or Shatabdi Express and reach Agra in under two hours. Easy-peasy.
Jaipur to Agra
Coming from the Pink City? The train journey from Jaipur to Agra takes around 4–5 hours and is filled with scenic views of Rajasthan’s rustic charm. Trains like the Ajmer–Agra Fort Intercity are perfect for this route.
Mumbai to Agra
If you’re traveling from India’s bustling west coast, prepare for a longer ride — about 20–24 hours. But don’t worry, trains like the Punjab Mail and Lashkar Express offer sleeper and AC classes for a comfortable journey.
Kolkata and Chennai to Agra
From Kolkata, you can take the Sealdah Express or Agra Cantt Express, while from Chennai, trains like the Chennai–Agra Superfast Express connect you with northern India. These are long-haul journeys but offer a beautiful glimpse into India’s diverse geography and culture.
Best Trains to Reach the Taj Mahal
Gatimaan Express
India’s fastest train. With a travel time of just 1 hour 40 minutes from Delhi to Agra, it offers executive class seating, onboard meals, and WiFi.
Shatabdi Express
Reliable and efficient, the Shatabdi runs daily between Delhi and Agra. Great for a quick same-day return trip.
Taj Express
As the name suggests, it’s built for tourists headed to the Taj. It departs from Hazrat Nizamuddin (Delhi) and reaches Agra in about 3 hours.
Palace on Wheels
Want to travel like royalty? The Palace on Wheels is a luxury train that covers multiple heritage spots, including Agra. Plush interiors, gourmet meals, and regal service — this is for those who want to splurge on a lifetime experience.
How to Book Train Tickets in India
Booking your train ticket is easier than ever. Just hop onto the IRCTC website or apps like MakeMyTrip or ClearTrip. If you're a foreign traveler, you can register for an IRCTC account using your copyright.
Choose between classes like:
Sleeper (SL) – Cheapest, but no air conditioning.
AC Chair Car (CC) – Ideal for short daytime travel.
AC 2-Tier/3-Tier (2A/3A) – Comfortable for overnight journeys.
Pro tip: Book in advance — especially during peak tourist seasons — as seats fill up fast!
What to Expect Onboard
Indian trains range from basic to ultra-luxurious. Expect vendors shouting out for “chai, samosa!” and friendly co-passengers who might share their lunch with you.
Cleanliness varies depending on the train and class, but carrying a travel pillow, sanitizer, and your own water bottle is always a good idea. Meals are usually included in premium trains but can also be ordered online to be delivered to your seat.
Arriving at Agra
You’ll most likely arrive at Agra Cantonment Station (Agra Cantt) — the city’s main rail hub. From here, the Taj Mahal is just 15-20 minutes away by auto-rickshaw or cab. You can also find Ola/Uber if you prefer app-based rides.
Getting to the Taj Mahal from the Station
The easiest way is to grab a prepaid auto-rickshaw or taxi. Some hotels also offer pick-up services. If you’re going full-on tourist, consider hiring a private guide who can enrich your experience with stories, history, and photo tips.
Taj Mahal Entry Info & Tips
Opening Hours: Sunrise to sunset (closed on Fridays)
Entry Fee: Around ₹50 for Indians, ₹1100 for foreigners
No Bags Allowed: Only small purses. Leave your backpacks in a cloakroom.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for fewer crowds and cooler temps
Other Attractions in Agra
While the Taj steals the show, Agra has other gems too:
Agra Fort – A majestic red sandstone fortress
Mehtab Bagh – For that iconic Taj sunset shot
Itimad-ud-Daulah – The Baby Taj, delicate and charming
Tips for a Smooth Taj Mahal Tour by Train
Carry photocopies of your ID and tickets
Keep cash handy for rickshaws and small purchases
Stay hydrated, especially if you're traveling in warmer months
Dress modestly, especially if visiting religious places nearby
Don’t forget your camera, but note: no tripods allowed inside the monument
Conclusion
A Taj Mahal tour by train isn’t just a trip — it’s an experience. From the rhythmic chug of the rails to the first magical glimpse of the Taj's white dome rising against the sky, every moment is unforgettable. Whether you're a history buff, a romantic, or just someone ticking off a bucket list item, this journey will leave a lasting impression. So grab your ticket, pack light, and let India’s railways take you on an adventure of a lifetime!
FAQs
1. Can I do a same-day round trip to the Taj Mahal from Delhi by train?
Absolutely! Trains like Gatimaan and Shatabdi make this super easy with early morning departures and evening returns.
2. Are Indian trains safe for tourists?
Yes, especially premium trains. Always keep your belongings secure and opt for AC classes for added comfort and security.
3. Is the Taj Mahal open every day?
No. It’s closed every Friday for public visitors. Plan accordingly.
4. Do I need a guide to visit the Taj Mahal?
It’s optional, but having a certified guide can enhance your experience with historical insights and hidden photo spots.
5. What’s the dress code for visiting the Taj Mahal?
There’s no strict code, but modest, comfortable clothing is recommended. Avoid tight or revealing outfits out of cultural respect.