The Taj Mahal looms fairytale-like from the banks of the Yamuna River. It's India’s most recognized monument and is also one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The monument dates back 1630 and is actually a tomb that contains the body of Mumtaz Mahal -- the wife of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. He had it built as an ode to his love for her. It's made out of marble and took 22 years and 20 000 workers to complete. Words cannot do the Taj Mahal justice, its incredible detail simply has to be seen to be appreciated.
Location
Agra, in the state of Uttar Pradesh, approximately 200 kilometers (125 miles) from Delhi. It's part of India's popular Golden Triangle Tourist Circuit.
When to Go
The best time is from November to February, otherwise it can be unbearably hot or rainy. You'll be able to get some excellent off-season discounts though.
The Taj Mahal appears to gradually alter its color in the changing light of the day. It’s well worth the effort to get up early and spend sunrise there, as it majestically reveals itself. Visiting around dawn will also enable you to beat the huge crowds that start arriving later in the morning.
Getting There
The Taj Mahal can be visited on a day trip from Delhi. Agra is well connected by rail. The main railway station is Agra Cantt. High speed Shatabdi Express services operate from Delhi, Varanasi, and cities in Rajasthan.
Find out the best trains from Delhi to Agra.
The Yamuna Expressway opened in August 2012 and has reduced the travel time by road from Delhi to Agra to under three hours. It starts from Noida and a toll of 415 rupees per car for a one way trip (665 rupees round trip) is payable. Read more about hiring a car and driver.
The bus is a good option if getting a train isn't possible. Comfortable, air-conditioned Volvo buses depart from Anand Vihar terminal in New Delhi every hour during the day. The cost is about 700 rupees per person. The buses go via the Yamuna Expressway and stop at Vango restaurant for a 30 minute snack and restroom break (the toilets are clean).
Alternatively you can fly from major Indian cities, or take a tour from Delhi.
Taj Mahal Tours
Viator (in conjunction with Tripadvisor) offers a popular and highly rated Private Day Tour to Agra and the Taj Mahal from Delhi, as well as a combined Day Tour to Agra and Fatehpur Sikri and Day Tour to Agra with Culture Walk. It's also possible to see the Taj Mahal at night during the full moon on this 2 Day Private Tour of Agra from Delhi.
Alternatively, see the Taj Mahal on one of these recommended Agra day tours: 11 Hour Agra Day Tour including Sunrise and Sunset at Taj Mahal, Private Taj Mahal and Agra Fort Tour including meal with a view and optional professional photographer, or Sunrise or Sunset View of Taj Mahal on Yamuna River Boat Ride.
If you're looking for an inexpensive tour option, UP Tourism runs daily full-day sightseeing bus tours to the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. The cost is 650 rupees for Indians and 3,000 rupees for foreigners. The price includes transport, monument entry tickets, and guide fees.
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