Agra: Day Trips and Tours from Delhi

Once known as the capital of the Mughal Empire, Agra is now regarded as one of the top sights in India for those looking to dive into the country’s cultural and historical scenes. The most dazzling sight you’ll find in this destination is the iconic white marble Taj Mahal.

However, there’s plenty to keep visitors on a day trip to Agra from Delhi occupied, from the former royal residence of Agra Fort to the Baby Taj, which honors a Persian Amir.

Here's all you need to know about Agra, one of the most exciting day trips from Delhi.

How to get to Agra from Delhi?

Agra is located in Uttar Pradesh, just under 250 kilometers southeast of Delhi in Northern India.

From Delhi to Agra by car

The journey to Agra from Delhi by car takes just over 4 hours and begins by heading out of the city in a southeasterly direction. You’ll use Yamuna Exp, as well as Manpur-Sauj Road to reach your destination and the route is simple to navigate.

From Delhi to Agra by public transport

The most popular way for those without access to a car to make the jaunt to Agra is by train. While you can catch a standard train, those in a hurry can make use of India’s fastest railway line, the Gatimaan Express, which takes just over 1.5 hours to connect the two destinations.

Guided tour to Agra from Delhi

Alternatively, book a guided excursion to Agra and let someone else take care of the arrangements for you. These generally include a convenient hotel pickup service and you can choose from different time slots throughout the day. You can expect these trips to be full-day affairs, lasting between 11 and 13 hours.

What is the typical itinerary?

While each Agra day tour is unique, they all share some similarities. You’ll begin with a comfortable ride to the city and start your adventure with a visit to the Taj Mahal. After strolling the site at a leisurely pace, you’ll typically continue on to Agra Fort.

The next, and often final, destination on most Agra day trips is the Baby Taj, named as it was considered a practice run of the Taj Mahal.

Just a short distance from the famed Taj Mahal lies another magnificent city, a testament to Mughal architectural grandeur. For those visiting Delhi and Agra, a day trip to Fatehpur Sikri presents an excellent opportunity to delve deeper into India's rich history and architectural wonders.

Alternatively, you can select a multi-day tour and discover more of the region, including Jaipur’s majestic collection of palaces.

Among the best multi-day trips, you can opt for a visit to the Golden Triangle, and embark on a fascinating journey through India's rich history, visiting Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, all at once!

What kinds of tours are available to go to Agra?

There are a range of different Agra day trips to suit all budgets and travel styles.

Guided tour to Agra from Delhi

On this day trip to Agra, you’ll be part of a small group, which makes for a more personal experience than on larger excursions. You’ll meander through the verdant greenery of India’s countryside to reach Agra where you’ll explore one of the New Seven Wonders of the World — the Taj Mahal. From there, you’ll make your way to Agra Fort, which is known as the place where the Mughal emperor, Humayun, was crowned in the 16th century.

Follow your guide on a fascinating stroll through the grounds where you’ll dive into the history of this stronghold before dining on a feast of local cuisine. The last destination on this Agra excursion is the Baby Taj — formally named the “Tomb of I'timād-ud-Daulah” — which showcases the different phases of Mughal architecture.

Sunrise tour to Agra from Delhi

Make an early start to see the Taj Mahal illuminated by the golden light of the rising sun on this Agra day tour. You’ll meet your tour guide upon arrival at Agra after a pleasant journey and head into the Taj Mahal together, soaking up the unforgettable views of the Mughal construct during sunrise. Continue on to Agra Fort before being served a mouthwatering breakfast. From here, you can choose to return to Delhi or alternatively, pay a visit to the Charbagh complex of Mehtab Bagh, which is home to perfectly manicured gardens that offer a clear view of the Taj Mahal.

Private tour to Agra from Delhi by train

Discover Northern India’s iconic network of trains on this private Agra tour, which provides you with a scenic view across the region as you travel in style to the city, enjoying breakfast along the way. Once you depart in Agra, you’ll meet your friendly guide who will transport you to the Taj Mahal where you’ll learn about the Mughal roots behind the monument and capture incredible photos to show your loved ones back home.

Discover the UNESCO-listed Agra Fort and the Baby Taj, constructed solely of cool white marble before embarking on the train journey back to Delhi with supper on the way.

4-Day tour to Agra plus Jaipur from New Delhi

Those with a little more time to spare may consider slowing down and participating in a multi-day tour to Agra, which also visits Jaipur, otherwise known as the “Pink City.” On day one, you’ll leave Delhi behind to discover the UNESCO World Heritage site of Qutub Minar, which stands at over 70 meters tall, as well as Lotus Temple.

On the second day, you’ll enjoy a city tour of Agra, which starts by witnessing the sun rise over the Taj Mahal, and also includes Agra Fort, as well as the Baby Taj. The following day, you’ll hop between a myriad of breathtaking attractions in the city of Jaipur, including the 18th-century City Palace, home to the Jaipur Royal Family, and, after this whirlwind introduction to Northern India, you’ll spend the final day making the picturesque journey back to Delhi.

How much does a day trip to Agra from Delhi cost?

The most budget-friendly Agra day tours take place at sunrise and begin at US$100 per adult, and between US$10 and US$20 for children under 14, which includes both transportation, and a guide. If you wish for entrance fees and breakfast to also be covered, you’ll pay just under US$200 per adult, and US$40 per child. In either case, your tour will be private for your group.

Small-group day trips to Agra from Delhi are limited to nine participants and also begin at just over US$100 for an excursion that only includes transportation. Children between the ages of 6 and 14 cost between US$20, and US$30 each while those under 6 can participate for free. You can choose to upgrade your tour in order to include a guide, entrance fees, lunch or a combination of all three for an additional charge.

Private Agra city tours by train start at between US$120 and US$130 per traveler of any age. This includes a second-class train journey, as well as a guide and a private car to transport you around the city once you reach Agra. You can upgrade in several ways and, if you choose to travel first-class and include lunch, as well as entrance tickets, you’ll pay between US$230, and US$240 each.

A multi-day tour to Jaipur and Agra costs a little under US$400 per adult, and between US$60 and US$70 for children under 6 if you wish to select your own hotels independently. However, if you choose to have your lodging arranged for you, which makes for a more seamless experience, you can choose between four-star or five-star accommodation. You’ll pay approximately US$580 per adult for an excursion that includes a four-star hotel. However, upgrading to a five-star hotel costs less than US$10 each. Children remain the same price regardless of whether you choose to include accommodation or not.

What will you see and do?

Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal, which is one of the most visited mausoleums in the world, attracts more than 7 million tourists each year! It has also been registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1983 for its spectacular architecture.

Agra Fort

One of the most important and historically significant forts in India. The Agra Fort was Recognized for its architectural and historical importance, and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.  Some of its notable structures include the Sheesh Mahal, Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas, Jahangir's Palace, and Musamman Burj.  

Baby Taj

Built between 1622 and 1628, the monument is noteworthy for its intricate marble inlay work, detailed carvings, and semi-precious stone ornamentation. Despite its smaller scale, the Baby Taj stands out as an important landmark in Mughal architecture, emphasizing more intricate artwork and use of marble.

When is the best time to visit Agra?

The best time to visit Agra is during the cooler months, from October to March.

Are there any tours to Agra from other cities in India?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in India:

• Day Trips to Agra from Kochi
• Day Trips to Agra from Bangalore