Taj Mahal from Bangalore

06:00 AM – Flight from Bangalore to Delhi

Your journey begins with an early morning flight from Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore, to Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi. A direct flight from Bangalore to Delhi takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. There are several flights available early in the morning, allowing you to reach Delhi in good time for your onward journey to Agra.

• Flight Duration: 2.5 - 3 hours
• Recommended Airlines: Indigo, Air India, Vistara

09:00 AM – Arrival at Delhi Airport and Transfer to Agra by Road

Upon arrival at Delhi Airport, a private car or pre-arranged cab will be waiting to take you on a comfortable road journey to Agra. The drive from Delhi to Agra via the Yamuna Expressway takes about 3 to 4 hours, covering a distance of approximately 230 km. The expressway offers a smooth, hassle-free ride, allowing you to enjoy the scenic countryside along the way.

• Travel Time: 3-4 hours by road
• Distance: 230 km

01:00 PM – Arrival in Agra and Check-in at Hotel

Once you reach Agra, you will check in at your hotel to freshen up and relax before beginning your exploration of the city. Many hotels in Agra offer views of the Taj Mahal, and depending on your budget, you can choose from a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to boutique stays.

• Recommended Hotels: The Oberoi Amarvilas, ITC Mughal, Trident Agra, Tajview Agra

02:00 PM – Lunch at a Local Restaurant

After checking in, enjoy a traditional North Indian lunch at one of Agra’s famous restaurants. Some of the recommended dishes to try include Mughlai cuisine, such as butter chicken, biryani, naan, and kebabs. Agra is known for its flavorful food, with dishes heavily influenced by Mughal cooking styles.

• Recommended Restaurants: Peshawri (ITC Mughal), Pinch of Spice, Daawat-e-Nawab (Tajview), and Shankara Vegis.

03:00 PM – Visit to Agra Fort

Your first sightseeing stop will be the majestic Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This red sandstone fort, built by Emperor Akbar in 1565, served as the residence of the Mughal emperors. It is a massive structure that offers a fascinating glimpse into Mughal history and architecture.

• Key Highlights of Agra Fort:
  • Diwan-i-Aam: Hall of Public Audience, where the emperor would meet commoners.
  • Diwan-i-Khas: Hall of Private Audience, where the emperor met with important dignitaries.
  • Musamman Burj: The place where Emperor Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb, and from where he had a view of the Taj Mahal in his final years.

Spend about 1.5 hours exploring the fort and learning about its historical significance.

05:00 PM – Visit Mehtab Bagh (Optional Sunset View)

If time permits, head to Mehtab Bagh, a garden complex situated across the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal. Mehtab Bagh offers stunning views of the Taj Mahal, especially at sunset. It’s an ideal place for photography and provides a peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds.

This garden was originally designed as part of the Taj Mahal’s complex and offers a unique perspective of the monument. It’s a beautiful spot to relax and admire the Taj from afar.

07:00 PM – Dinner at Hotel or Local Restaurant

After a long day of travel and sightseeing, enjoy a relaxing dinner at your hotel or a local restaurant. You can try more of Agra’s local specialties or opt for a lighter meal to prepare for the next day’s early start.

• Recommended Dining Options: Esphahan (The Oberoi Amarvilas), Pinch of Spice, or a multi-cuisine restaurant at your hotel.

08:30 PM – Overnight Stay at the Hotel

Rest well as you have an exciting morning ahead. Tomorrow, you’ll witness the beauty of the Taj Mahal at sunrise, which is considered the best time to experience its grandeur.

05:30 AM – Early Morning Visit to the Taj Mahal
Wake up early for the highlight of your trip: visiting the Taj Mahal at sunrise. The Taj Mahal is renowned for its ethereal beauty, which changes color with the rising sun. Arriving early allows you to avoid the large crowds and experience the serenity of this iconic monument in the soft morning light.

Location: On the banks of the Yamuna River
Highlights: UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mughal architecture, symbol of love
The Taj Mahal was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal and is considered the ultimate symbol of love. Your guide will take you through the history of its construction, the intricate marble inlay work, the symmetrical design, and the meaning behind its architectural elements.

You will have ample time to explore the gardens, the main mausoleum, and the reflecting pools, all while capturing the Taj Mahal’s beauty from various angles. The early morning light makes for stunning photographs.

08:00 AM – Breakfast at the Hotel
After your Taj Mahal visit, return to your hotel for breakfast. You’ll have time to relax and freshen up before continuing your exploration of Agra.

09:30 AM – Visit to Itmad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj)
Next, visit Itmad-ud-Daulah, often referred to as the "Baby Taj." This exquisite tomb was built by Nur Jahan for her father, Mirza Ghiyas Beg, and is considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal due to its intricate marble inlay work and symmetrical design. While smaller in size, it is no less impressive and provides a quieter, less crowded experience.

Highlights: Persian-style architecture, detailed pietra dura (stone inlay) work, beautiful gardens
11:00 AM – Free Time for Shopping or Exploration
Agra is known for its handicrafts, particularly its marble inlay work, leather goods, and textiles. If you’re interested in shopping, your guide can take you to local markets or artisan workshops where you can purchase souvenirs or learn about the local craftsmanship.

Alternatively, if time allows, you can explore more of Agra’s lesser-known attractions, such as Akbar’s Tomb in Sikandra or Chini ka Rauza.

01:00 PM – Lunch at a Local Restaurant
Before departing for Delhi, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant. You can opt for a traditional Mughlai meal or a lighter fare, depending on your preference.

02:00 PM – Departure for Delhi
After lunch, begin your journey back to Delhi by road. Your driver will take you back via the Yamuna Expressway, ensuring a comfortable and smooth drive.

06:00 PM – Arrival at Delhi Airport
Upon reaching Delhi Airport, check in for your evening flight back to Bangalore. The drive from Agra to Delhi will give you time to reflect on the incredible experiences of the past two days.

08:00 PM – Flight from Delhi to Bangalore
Board your flight back to Bangalore, which takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.

11:00 PM – Arrival in Bangalore
You’ll arrive back in Bangalore by late evening, concluding your memorable journey to the Taj Mahal and the historic city of Agra.