Taj Mahal Tour By Gatimaan Train

Early Morning Pickup from Hotel:
Your tour begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Delhi, where you will be escorted to the Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station. The Gatimaan Express departs at around 8:00 AM, and your guide will ensure you board the train comfortably.

Train Journey to Agra (Approx. 1.5 Hours):
The Gatimaan Express is India’s fastest train, equipped with air-conditioned coaches, Wi-Fi, and modern amenities. During your journey, you’ll be served a light breakfast (typically a combination of Indian and continental dishes), allowing you to relax and enjoy the ride. The train travels at speeds of up to 160 km/h, covering the 200 km (approx. 125 miles) between Delhi and Agra in around 1.5 hours.

While on board, your tour guide will provide fascinating insights into the history of the Taj Mahal and Agra, preparing you for the experiences ahead.

Welcome to Agra:
The train arrives at Agra Cantt Station around 9:30 AM. Upon disembarking, you’ll be greeted by your guide, who will assist with the transfer to your vehicle for the day. The journey from the station to the Taj Mahal is a short drive, giving you your first glimpse of the city.

Explore the Taj Mahal:
Your guide will take you directly to the Taj Mahal, where you’ll be able to enter the monument through the main entrance, known as the Darwaza-i-Rauza. Upon entry, the grandeur of the Taj Mahal will unfold before you. This magnificent marble mausoleum, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, is a symbol of eternal love.

As you walk through the beautiful Charbagh Gardens (the Persian-style garden), you’ll learn about the Taj’s architectural features, such as its symmetry, its four minarets, and the intricately designed marble inlays. The tour will take you to the central dome, where the tombs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal are housed. Your guide will explain the intricate details of the monument’s design, from the calligraphy and inlay work to the Persian garden layout.

Traditional Lunch in Agra:
After visiting the Taj Mahal, you’ll head to a local restaurant for a traditional Mughlai lunch. Enjoy delicious local dishes such as Biryani, Kebabs, Pulao, or Dal Tadka. Several restaurants in Agra offer a beautiful view of the Taj Mahal, allowing you to continue enjoying the monument even while dining.

Explore Agra Fort:
After lunch, the tour continues with a visit to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This sprawling red sandstone fort was the seat of the Mughal emperors before the capital was moved to Delhi. Inside, you’ll visit significant structures like the Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience), Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), and the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors), each with its own fascinating history.

The fort also offers an excellent vantage point for panoramic views of the Taj Mahal across the Yamuna River. Your guide will take you through the fort’s complex, explaining its historical importance and its role during the Mughal reign.

Optional Visit to Mehtab Bagh:
If time permits, you can make a short visit to Mehtab Bagh, a tranquil garden located across the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal. This spot offers an excellent view of the Taj Mahal, especially at sunset, and is ideal for photography. The garden, designed in a similar style to the Charbagh of the Taj Mahal, also provides a quiet space to reflect on the beauty of the monument.

Board the Gatimaan Express Back to Delhi:
After your tour of Agra, you’ll be transferred back to Agra Cantt Station in time to board the Gatimaan Express for your return journey to Delhi. The train departs at 5:50 PM and will get you back to Hazrat Nizamuddin Station in approximately 1.5 hours.

During the return journey, you can relax, reflect on the day’s experiences, and enjoy dinner or refreshments served onboard.

Evening Arrival in Delhi:
You will arrive back in Delhi around 7:30 PM, where your guide will assist you with your transfer to your hotel or the airport, concluding your Taj Mahal Tour by Gatimaan Express.