Taj Mahal Tour from Delhi – Distance, Routes & Travel Tips

The Taj Mahal, one of the most iconic wonders of the world, draws millions of travelers every year. Located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to India. For most tourists, the journey begins in Delhi, the capital city, which serves as the gateway to Agra.

Planning a Taj Mahal tour from Delhi involves understanding the distance, best routes, modes of transport, and practical tips to make your journey comfortable and memorable. Whether you are visiting on a same-day trip or staying overnight, this guide will help you plan the perfect travel experience.

Why Plan a Taj Mahal Tour from Delhi?

Delhi and Agra are well-connected, making it convenient for domestic and international travelers. The Taj Mahal tour from Delhi is popular because of its accessibility, flexibility, and wide range of travel options.

Many visitors also prefer combining Delhi and Agra as part of the Golden Triangle circuit (Delhi–Agra–Jaipur), one of India’s most famous travel routes. By starting in Delhi, you can explore the capital’s monuments and then head to Agra to witness the crown jewel of Mughal architecture.

Distance Between Delhi and Agra

When planning a trip to the Taj Mahal, one of the first questions travelers ask is: How far is Agra from Delhi? The answer helps you decide whether to take a same-day tour or spend a night in Agra. The distance between Delhi and Agra is approximately 230 km (143 miles) by road, and it varies slightly depending on your mode of travel—road, rail, or air. Let’s break it down.

By Road: Approx. 230 km via Yamuna Expressway
By Train: 188 km (Delhi to Agra Cantt railway station)
By Air: The nearest airport to Agra is Kheria Airport (domestic only), but it has limited connectivity. Most tourists prefer road or rail.

Traveling from Delhi to Agra can take between 2.5 to 4 hours, depending on the mode of transport you choose.

Best Routes from Delhi to Agra

1. Yamuna Expressway (Fastest Route)

The Yamuna Expressway is undoubtedly the most preferred and fastest route for reaching Agra from Delhi. Stretching about 165 kilometers, this six-lane, access-controlled expressway provides a smooth, scenic, and quick ride. Starting from Greater Noida, the expressway takes you directly to Agra in just 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic.

Distance: 230 km
Travel Time: Around 3 hours
Why Choose: Smooth roads, less traffic, high-speed travel
Highlights on the Way: Scenic landscapes, food plazas, and rest stops

Why Choose This Route?

Smooth highway with minimal traffic.
Beautiful views of the countryside.
Convenient stops with food plazas and

2. NH19 (Old Delhi–Agra Highway)

If you prefer a more traditional and scenic drive, the NH19 (formerly known as NH2)—often referred to as the Old Delhi–Agra Highway—is a great alternative. This route has been in use long before the modern expressways were built and continues to be a favorite for travelers who wish to experience the journey in a more relaxed way.

Distance: 210 km
Travel Time: 4–5 hours
Why Choose: Budget-friendly, passes through towns and local markets
Highlights on the Way: Mathura and Vrindavan (famous for temples), roadside dhabas for local food
Route Highlights
- Passes through Faridabad, Palwal, and Mathura, allowing you to stop at smaller towns and explore local culture.
- Ideal for travelers who want to include Mathura and Vrindavan in their trip along with the Taj Mahal.
- Offers a more “local experience” compared to the Yamuna Expressway.
Why Choose NH19?
- Perfect for spiritual travelers visiting Lord Krishna’s birthplace in Mathura.
- Allows flexibility with detours for food joints, dhabas, and sightseeing stops.
- A great choice if you’re not in a hurry and want to enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

This route is best suited for tourists who want to combine the Taj Mahal tour with Mathura and Vrindavan or those who simply prefer the charm of the old highway drive.

For most travelers, the Yamuna Expressway is the preferred option as it offers comfort, safety, and speed. However, if you wish to explore Mathura and Vrindavan, the NH19 route is a good choice.

Travel Options for Taj Mahal Tour from Delhi

1. By Train

Delhi is well connected to Agra by fast trains such as:

Gatimaan Express: Delhi to Agra in 1 hour 40 minutes, ideal for a same-day trip.
Shatabdi Express: Comfortable and quick, takes about 2 hours.
Taj Express: A good budget option, slightly longer travel time.

Trains are the most time-efficient and comfortable option for those who want to maximize sightseeing in Agra.

2. By Road (Car, Cab, or Bus)

Hiring a private cab or using intercity buses is another popular option. Many tourists prefer chauffeur-driven cars for flexibility and convenience. Government and private buses also connect Delhi and Agra at affordable prices.

3. By Air

Traveling to the Taj Mahal by air is undoubtedly the fastest way to cover the distance between Delhi and Agra, though it comes with certain limitations. Agra has its own airport, known as Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport (AGR), which is a domestic airport situated about 12 km from the Taj Mahal. Currently, direct flight connectivity between Delhi and Agra is limited, as the two cities are relatively close (roughly 230 km apart), and most tourists prefer road or rail travel.

Delhi to Agra Flights

Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi offers flights to Agra on select days. These flights are usually operated by smaller carriers and are seasonal or charter-based, mainly to cater to international tourists who want a quick connection. The flight duration is about 1 hour, making it the fastest option to reach Agra.

From Agra Airport to Taj Mahal

Once you land in Agra, you can take a cab, auto-rickshaw, or pre-booked taxi to the Taj Mahal. The ride usually takes 20–30 minutes depending on traffic. Since public transportation options from Agra Airport are limited, booking a private cab is the most convenient choice.

Advantages of Traveling by Air

Quickest travel option – ideal for tourists who are on very tight schedules.
Comfortable and hassle-free compared to road traffic.
A good choice for international travelers landing in Delhi who wish to save time.

Limitations of Traveling by Air

Very limited flights available.
Higher cost compared to road or train journeys.
Less flexible in terms of timing compared to frequent trains and highways.

While air travel is not the most common way to reach the Taj Mahal, it is an option worth considering for luxury travelers, foreign tourists on same-day tours, or those who want to avoid long journeys.

Suggested Itinerary for a Taj Mahal Tour from Delhi

Same-Day Tour (Ideal for Short Visits):

Early morning: Depart from Delhi by Gatimaan Express or Yamuna Expressway.
Morning: Visit the Taj Mahal.
Afternoon: Explore Agra Fort and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
Evening: Shop in Agra markets and view the Taj from Mehtab Bagh before returning to Delhi.

2-Day Tour (Relaxed Pace):

Day 1: Travel to Agra, visit the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort.
Evening: Enjoy sunset at Mehtab Bagh.
Overnight stay in Agra.
Day 2: Visit Fatehpur Sikri, Itmad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj), and local bazaars before returning to Delhi.

This itinerary ensures you don’t miss out on Agra’s rich Mughal heritage beyond the Taj Mahal.

Tips for Planning Agra Tours from Delhi

If you’re considering Agra tours, here are a few important tips:

Best Time to Visit: October to March is ideal, as summers are extremely hot. Winter mornings can be foggy, so plan accordingly.
Entry Tickets: Book Taj Mahal tickets online to avoid long queues.
Guided Tours: Hiring a certified guide enhances your experience with historical insights and stories.
Local Cuisine: Try Agra’s famous petha (sweet) and Mughlai dishes.
Shopping: Agra is known for marble handicrafts, leather goods, and souvenirs.
Photography: Sunrise and sunset are the best times for photography. Tripods are not allowed inside the Taj Mahal.

Taj Mahal Entry Timings from Delhi Travelers Should Know

Opens: 30 minutes before sunrise
Closes: 30 minutes before sunset
Closed: Every Friday (for prayers at the mosque inside)
Night Viewing: Allowed only on full moon nights and two days before/after (except Fridays and Ramadan)

Tourists planning their trip must check the timings and avoid visiting on Fridays.

Travel Costs for Taj Mahal Tour from Delhi

Train Tickets (Gatimaan Express): ₹750–₹1500 per person (one way)
Private Car/Taxi: ₹4000–₹7000 (round trip, depending on vehicle type)
Bus Fare: ₹300–₹700 per person (one way)
Entry Ticket for Taj Mahal:
- Foreign tourists: ₹1300
- Indian citizens: ₹250
- SAARC/BIMSTEC citizens: ₹740

Booking Taj Mahal tour packages often covers transport, tickets, and guided services, making the trip hassle-free.

Extend Your Journey with Taj Mahal Tour Packages

If time permits, you can extend your trip beyond Agra. Popular extensions include:

Jaipur: Famous for Amer Fort, Hawa Mahal, and City Palace (Golden Triangle Tour).
Mathura & Vrindavan: Birthplace of Lord Krishna, filled with temples and spiritual experiences.
Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary: A paradise for nature lovers and bird watchers.

Opting for Taj Mahal tour packages that include Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur ensures you experience history, culture, and architecture in one trip.

Final Thoughts

A Taj Mahal tour from Delhi is one of the most unforgettable journeys in India. Whether you choose the speed of a train, the comfort of a car, or the affordability of a bus, the route to Agra is smooth and convenient. Knowing the distance, routes, and travel tips helps you make the most of your trip.

From sunrise at the Taj Mahal to shopping in Agra’s vibrant bazaars, every moment in this city feels magical. With proper planning, combining Agra tours or opting for complete Taj Mahal tour packages can make your experience seamless and enriching.

The Taj Mahal is not just a monument—it is an emotion, a story in stone, and a memory that stays with you forever. Your journey from Delhi to Agra is the first step in experiencing its timeless charm.