05:30 AM – Sunrise Visit to the Taj Mahal
Rise early for the highlight of your trip: a visit to the Taj Mahal at sunrise. The Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most beautiful and iconic monuments in the world. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, it symbolizes eternal love.
- Taj Mahal Sunrise Experience: The early morning light bathes the white marble in soft hues of pink, gold, and ivory. At this time of day, the crowds are minimal, allowing you to fully absorb the peaceful beauty of the monument. Your guide will share the fascinating history behind the construction of the Taj Mahal, its architectural significance, and the intricate craftsmanship that went into its design.
You’ll have ample time to explore the gardens, the main mausoleum, and the reflecting pools to capture the Taj Mahal in all its glory. The sunrise view is truly magical, making this the best time to visit.
08:00 AM – Breakfast at Hotel
After your Taj Mahal visit, return to your hotel for a hearty breakfast. Enjoy a leisurely meal as you reflect on the beauty of the Taj Mahal and prepare for the rest of the day.
09:30 AM – Visit to Itmad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj)
Next, visit the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, often referred to as the “Baby Taj.” This beautiful mausoleum was built by Nur Jahan for her father, Mirza Ghiyas Beg, and is considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal. While smaller in scale, the intricate marble inlay work and stunning design make it a must-visit site.
- Highlights: Persian-style architecture, exquisite stone inlay work, peaceful gardens
Itmad-ud-Daulah’s tomb is often overlooked by tourists, which means you can enjoy the beauty of this site without the crowds.
11:00 AM – Free Time for Shopping and Exploring Local Markets
Agra is famous for its handicrafts, including marble inlay work, leather goods, and carpets. If you’re interested in shopping, you can visit local artisan workshops or markets like Sadar Bazaar or Kinari Bazaar. Here, you can purchase unique souvenirs such as miniature replicas of the Taj Mahal, marble pieces, jewelry, and traditional textiles.
01:00 PM – Lunch at a Local Restaurant
Before departing Agra, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. This is another opportunity to savor North Indian cuisine, including Mughlai dishes, curries, biryani, and tandoori breads.
- Recommended Restaurants: Peshawri, Tajview’s multi-cuisine restaurant, or other popular eateries in Agra.
02:00 PM – Departure for Delhi
After lunch, your driver will take you back to Delhi for your return flight to Mumbai. The drive along the Yamuna Expressway will be comfortable and will take approximately 3-4 hours.
06:00 PM – Arrival at Delhi Airport
Upon reaching Delhi Airport, check in for your evening flight back to Mumbai. Use this time to relax and reflect on your trip, knowing you’ve just experienced one of the most beautiful monuments in the world.
08:00 PM – Flight from Delhi to Mumbai
Board your flight from Delhi to Mumbai, which takes approximately 2 – 2.5 hours. You’ll arrive in Mumbai by late evening, concluding your unforgettable journey to the Taj Mahal.
10:30 PM – Arrival in Mumbai
You’ll arrive back at Mumbai Airport, marking the end of your memorable Taj Mahal tour. Take home the incredible memories of the majestic Taj Mahal and Agra’s rich history and culture.