The Taj Mahal: Everything There Is to Know About Visiting This Wonder of the World
If you have ever dreamed of seeing one of the world’s wonders in India but are not sure where to start, how to get there, when to go, or what details will make the experience easy and enjoyable, then keep reading.
The Taj Mahal is absolutely magnificent. No photo or video will ever do justice to the feeling of standing in front of it.
The building itself is breathtaking, but it is also about the culture, the atmosphere, and the unforgettable experience that comes with being there in person.
Agra: The Historic Home of the Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is located in the city of Agra in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, about 200 km south of Delhi.
While the Taj Mahal is the main attraction, Agra is also home to other incredible historical landmarks such as Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri.
The city played an important role in India’s history as it was once the capital of the Mughal Empire, which explains the magnificent architecture and rich cultural heritage you see here.
Exploring Agra Beyond the Taj
Life in Agra is full of energy with bustling markets and bazaars, local artisans working with marble similar to that of the Taj Mahal, endless street food stalls, and of course the wonder itself.
Like many major cities in northern India, Agra is busy, chaotic and overwhelming at times, but it has a unique charm and deep history that make it worth exploring.
The best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is cooler and more pleasant for sightseeing.
How to Travel to Agra From Delhi, Jaipur, and Beyond
Getting to Agra is fairly simple whether you are coming from Delhi, Jaipur, or even further away. Since many international travelers first arrive in Delhi, it is the most common starting point to reach Agra.
From Delhi, you can take the Gatimaan Express or the Shatabdi Express, two popular trains that run daily from New Delhi to Agra. There are also plenty of government and private buses, which take a little longer but are still a reliable option.
If you prefer more comfort and flexibility, you can hire a private car or taxi. For those who want to skip the planning altogether, there are tour packages that include round-trip transportation from Delhi directly to the Taj Mahal.
From Jaipur, the options are similar. There is a daily train that connects Jaipur and Agra, as well as state-run and private buses that operate between the two cities. Hiring a car or taxi is also a good choice if you want a more comfortable ride.
For travelers who want everything organized, many companies offer full Golden Triangle tours. These tours cover Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, arranging accommodations, transfers, and guided sightseeing, making the experience smooth and stress-free.
What You Need to Know About Booking Trains & Buses in India
As a non-Indian traveler, booking trains can sometimes be tricky since the online system requires registration and often fills up quickly.
If you do want to take the train, it’s best to book as early as possible or go through a travel agency that can secure tickets for you. Buses, on the other hand, are much easier to book.
The app and website RedBus are widely used in India and allow you to choose your seat in advance. You can even filter for women-friendly buses or select women-only seats, which is a great option if you are traveling solo and want a bit of extra comfort and security.