How to get from Delhi to Agra

Heading from Delhi to Agra to see the Taj Mahal (or continue deeper into Uttar Pradesh)? This guide covers every practical way to travel between the two cities—by superfast train, bus, car, or guided tour—so you can choose the route that fits your time, budget, and travel style best.

At A Glance (Delhi to Agra)

Mode	Duration	Best For
🚆 Superfast & Express Trains (New Delhi / Hazrat Nizamuddin → Agra Cantt)	~1.5–3h station-to-station	Most travelers, reliable & fast day trips
🏷️ Cost: ~INR 400–2,300 one-way depending on train/class. Compare schedules & fares on Delhi–Agra trains or book directly via India’s official rail system through IRCTC-linked partners.
🚗 Private Car / Taxi via Yamuna Expressway	~3–4h door-to-door (traffic- & pickup-dependent)	Door-to-door comfort, families, lots of luggage
🏷️ Cost: ~INR 1,800–3,500 one-way for a basic sedan, more for round-trips and larger vehicles. See mixed options (taxis, vans, shared car) on New Delhi–Agra transport or prebook a private transfer from Delhi with providers like Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer, alongside local ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Ola.
🚌 Government & Private Buses (Delhi ISBTs → Agra)	~4–5h depending on route & stops	Budget-conscious travelers, frequent departures
🏷️ Cost: From ~INR 300–1,200+ one-way depending on ordinary vs. AC/Volvo class. You can compare many operators (including UPSRTC) on multi-modal search tools like Delhi–Agra buses.
📸 Guided Day Tours by Car or Train	~12–14h round trip (full-day tour)	Hassle-free sightseeing, first-time visitors
🏷️ Cost: Roughly ~INR 3,000–12,000+ per person depending on inclusions (tickets, meals, class of train). Browse curated day trips on platforms like Taj Mahal & Agra tours, Agra day trips, or train-based packages on Trip.com Gatimaan tours.

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest & most convenient for most people: Superfast and express trains (see Option #1 – Trains) are typically the quickest and most predictable way to get between Delhi and Agra in under 2–3 hours, ideal for day trips.
• Best door-to-door comfort: If you’re traveling as a family, with bulky luggage, or landing at Delhi Airport and heading straight to Agra, a private car or taxi via the Yamuna Expressway (Option #2 – Private Car/Taxi) gives maximum flexibility.
• Cheapest / most economical: Government and private buses (Option #3 – Buses) are usually the lowest cash outlay, especially if you’re flexible about timing and comfort.
• Most hassle-free sightseeing: If you want everything handled—transport, tickets, local guide, often lunch—go for a guided day tour (Option #4 – Guided Day Tours), either by superfast train or by car.
• Staying overnight in Agra: Combine a train or car journey with a hotel near the Taj so you can see sunrise or sunset. You can compare a wide range of places to stay near the monument on Booking.com hotels around the Taj Mahal.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Booking trains: For Indian Railways, you’ll typically book via the official IRCTC system (directly or through authorized partners). Foreigners often find it easier to compare timings and ballpark fares on tools like Delhi–Agra trains on 12Go, then complete purchase with an IRCTC-linked agency or app.
• Buying bus tickets: For state buses, check departure information on the official UPSRTC website, then either buy at the counter or via an online partner platform. Private buses can be prebooked through multi-operator sites like Delhi–Agra bus listings.
• Private car or taxi: If you don’t want to negotiate locally, pre-arrange a transfer or day-trip car with reliable operators. You can compare car/van options on New Delhi–Agra taxis and vans, or book a fixed-price transfer through services like Welcome Pickups from Delhi Airport or GetTransfer intercity rides. Locally, app-based options like Uber and Ola are widely used within Delhi and in Agra for shorter hops.
• Guided tours & skip-the-line combos: If you’re short on time, consider a full package where someone else manages logistics. Popular options include car-based and train-based same-day Taj Mahal tours on GetYourGuide, Klook’s express train day tour, or Trip.com Gatimaan Express packages.
• Luggage and left-luggage: If you’re transiting through Delhi and don’t want to drag bags on a day trip, consider short-term storage near New Delhi Station through networks such as Radical Storage at New Delhi Station. Inside the stations, Indian Railways cloakrooms are also available for ticketed passengers.
• Accommodation & car rental: If you plan to stay overnight or self-drive, look for flexible hotel and car deals around Delhi and Agra. You can search for stays close to the Taj or Agra Fort on Agra hotels, and compare rental cars from Delhi or the airport on Booking.com Car Rentals in New Delhi.

🚆 Option #1 — Superfast & Express Trains (Fastest for Most Travelers)

Fast & frequent City-center to city-center Advance booking advised

• Overview: Delhi–Agra is one of India’s classic rail corridors. Superfast options such as Gatimaan Express (from Hazrat Nizamuddin), Shatabdi, Vande Bharat or other chair-car expresses link Delhi’s central stations with Agra Cantt in about 1.5–3 hours, ideal for same-day visits to the Taj.
• Typical fares: Expect roughly INR 400–800 for non-AC or basic AC seats on regular express trains, and around INR 750–2,300 per adult in AC Chair Car or Executive Chair on premium trains like Gatimaan (prices vary by season and class).
• How to book: The official route is via the IRCTC reservation system—either directly on IRCTC’s website or through authorized partners and apps using your IRCTC login. If you mainly want to compare timings and see rough fares in one place before booking, you can view many Delhi–Agra train options on 12Go’s Delhi–Agra train page and then complete ticketing through an IRCTC-integrated platform.
• Pros: Fast, avoids traffic; frequent departures throughout the day; direct access to central Agra from central Delhi; easy to pair with a guided tour that starts at Agra Cantt.
• Cons: Seats on popular departures can sell out; early-morning departures require very early starts from hotels or the airport; you must stick to fixed departure times and station locations.

Step-by-step: Taking a Superfast Train from Delhi to Agra

1. Choose your departure station and train: Most travelers use New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) or Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM). Look for superfast options like Gatimaan Express (NZM → Agra Cantt) or other chair-car express trains that fit your schedule.
2. Check schedules and availability: Use IRCTC or an authorized partner site/app to search for Delhi–Agra trains on your date. For a user-friendly overview with approximate prices, you can also check Delhi–Agra train schedules before finalizing.
3. Book your ticket: Reserve seats as early as you can, especially for weekends and peak seasons. Use your IRCTC login or an official partner app to pay and get your e-ticket (make sure your ID matches your booking).
4. Get to the station: From central Delhi, connect by Delhi Metro, auto-rickshaw, local taxi, or ride-hailing apps like Uber and Ola. If you’re coming straight from the airport with luggage, consider a pre-booked transfer such as Welcome Pickups from Delhi Airport to the station or a car booked via GetTransfer.
5. Board and ride: Arrive 30–45 minutes early, find your coach and seat (printed on the ticket or chart), and keep your ticket and ID handy for checks. On many superfast trains you’ll have assigned seats, luggage racks, and sometimes meals or snacks included in higher classes.
6. Arrive at Agra Cantt: From Agra Cantt station, auto-rickshaws, taxis, and app-based cabs (where available) can take you to the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, or your hotel. If you’ve booked a day tour through platforms like Klook’s express train tour or Trip.com Gatimaan tours, your guide/driver will usually meet you right at the station.

Getting to the main embarking points (Delhi railway stations)

• New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS): Well connected by the Yellow Line and Airport Express Line (via New Delhi Metro Station). It’s also a major hub for auto-rickshaws, local taxis, Uber, and Ola. If you’re nearby but carrying big luggage or traveling in a group, a pre-booked car or van can be more comfortable.
• Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM): Located in South/East Delhi, reachable by metro (JLN Stadium / Ashram / Sarai Kale Khan–Nizamuddin area), taxi, or cab app. Gatimaan and some other premium trains depart from here—double-check your station on the ticket.
• From Delhi Airport: If you’re landing at IGI and heading straight for a train, either take the Airport Express metro to New Delhi Station, or book a private transfer through Welcome Pickups, GetTransfer, or a ride-hailing app, and allow generous buffer time for traffic and check-in.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚗 Option #2 — Private Car or Taxi via Yamuna Expressway

Flexible timing Door-to-door Tolls & traffic

• Overview: The Yamuna Expressway is a modern, access-controlled highway connecting Greater Noida to Agra. From central Delhi, your driver will usually route via Noida–Greater Noida and then cruise down the expressway to Agra, taking around 3–4 hours in typical conditions.
• Typical fares & tolls: A standard sedan for a one-way Delhi–Agra run often costs about INR 1,800–3,500 depending on operator, time, and season (round-trips and full-day hires cost more). Tolls on the Yamuna Expressway are charged separately—refer to the official Yamuna Expressway toll & travel tips page for current rates.
• How to book: You can negotiate with local taxi stands/hotel desks, but many visitors prefer the clarity of online bookings. Compare prices for taxis and private transfers on pages like New Delhi–Agra taxi listings, or book flat-rate airport and hotel pickups via Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer. Within Delhi itself, ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Ola can sometimes be used for outstation trips if the driver agrees.
• Pros: Completely flexible departure time; hotel/airport pickup and drop-off; ideal if you’re traveling with kids or lots of luggage; easy to combine with stops at roadside attractions or services on the way.
• Cons: More expensive than standard trains or buses; you must factor in traffic within Delhi at departure/arrival; winter fog can slow travel on the expressway and may make early-morning or late-night driving risky.

Step-by-step: Delhi to Agra by Car

1. Decide on pickup and drop-off points: Common starting points are Delhi Airport (IGI), central Delhi hotels (Connaught Place, Paharganj), or areas in South/West Delhi. In Agra, you might aim for your hotel, the Taj Mahal East/West Gate parking areas, or Agra Cantt station.
2. Get quotes and book: Compare inclusive quotes (vehicle, driver, fuel, tolls, parking) from trusted operators. You can use platforms like New Delhi–Agra taxis and vans, Welcome Pickups transfers, or GetTransfer intercity options. Confirm whether your trip is one-way or return same-day.
3. Plan departure time: For a same-day Taj Mahal tour, many drivers recommend leaving Delhi around 5–7 AM to reach Agra by mid-morning, especially in warmer months when you’ll want to visit the Taj early.
4. Drive via Yamuna Expressway: Your driver will generally use the NOIDA–Greater Noida Expressway to reach the Yamuna Expressway, then head straight to Agra. There are service plazas with food, fuel, and toilets along the way—use them to break the journey and stay alert.
5. Arrive in Agra: On arrival, you can head directly to the Taj Mahal parking areas, your hotel, or another site such as Agra Fort. Keep your return timing in mind; driving back to Delhi in late evening traffic can add extra time.

Getting to the main embarking points (Delhi & Expressway access)

• From central Delhi: Your driver or cab will typically pick you up from your hotel or a central landmark (e.g., Connaught Place). If you’re staying near New Delhi Station or Paharganj, be sure to allow some time for inner-city traffic before hitting the expressway.
• From South/East Delhi & Noida: If you’re already near Noida/Greater Noida, you’re closer to the Yamuna Expressway entrance. This can shave off both time and cost, so mention your exact pickup location when requesting quotes.
• From Delhi Airport (IGI): Arrange pickup at your arrival terminal in advance through your hotel, a private transfer service like Welcome Pickups, GetTransfer, or ride-hailing apps. A direct airport-to-Agra run via expressway is a popular choice for travelers with limited time in India.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚌 Option #3 — Direct Bus (Most Popular Budget Choice)

Low cost Frequent departures Less comfort than train

• Overview: Government-run and private buses connect Delhi’s major bus terminals (notably ISBT Kashmiri Gate, Anand Vihar, sometimes Sarai Kale Khan) with Agra’s bus stands. Journeys usually take around 4–5 hours, depending on traffic and intermediate stops.
• Typical fares: Ordinary non-AC state buses can start at roughly INR 300–400, while AC/Volvo or premium private coaches often fall in the INR 500–1,200+ band one-way.
• How to book: For official state buses, check timings and fare information via the UPSRTC official website or at ticket counters at ISBTs. Many passengers now use online aggregators to compare multiple operators and bus types; you can browse a cross-section of options on pages like Delhi–Agra buses on 12Go.
• Pros: Very budget friendly; lots of departures spread across the day; a good backup if trains are sold out.
• Cons: More susceptible to traffic delays; comfort levels vary significantly between operators; fewer on-board facilities compared with premium trains; you’ll arrive at a bus stand rather than directly at the Taj or your hotel.

Step-by-step: Delhi to Agra by Bus

1. Pick your departure terminal: For most travelers, ISBT Kashmiri Gate or Anand Vihar ISBT are the main hubs for intercity buses towards Uttar Pradesh. Check which terminal your chosen bus uses.
2. Choose bus type & operator: Decide between ordinary state buses, semi-deluxe, or AC/Volvo services. Government services (UPSRTC) tend to be reliable and fairly priced, while private operators sometimes offer more onboard comfort (reclining seats, charging points, fewer stops).
3. Book tickets: Either purchase at the terminal counter on the day (for less busy times) or prebook online. To compare multiple departure times and operators at once, you can search Delhi–Agra routes through platforms such as multi-operator bus listings, then confirm the exact boarding gate noted on your ticket.
4. Arrive early: Reach your ISBT at least 30–45 minutes beforehand to find the correct platform, grab water and snacks, and settle in. Traffic around the terminals can be dense, especially during rush hour.
5. On the way: Expect a couple of comfort or snack stops. Keep your valuables close, and avoid leaving luggage unattended when you step off the bus.
6. Arriving in Agra: At the Agra bus stand or drop-off point, auto-rickshaws and taxis are usually available to take you onward to the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, or your hotel.

Getting to the main embarking points (Delhi ISBTs)

• ISBT Kashmiri Gate: Directly connected to the Delhi Metro (Red, Yellow, and Violet Lines). This is a large, busy terminal—follow signage and allow extra time to navigate the platforms. Autos, local taxis, Uber, and Ola are widely available in the surrounding area.
• Anand Vihar ISBT: Located in East Delhi, also connected to the metro network. It serves many buses going towards Uttar Pradesh; check whether your specific Delhi–Agra service departs here.
• Sarai Kale Khan / others: Some private operators may use Sarai Kale Khan or smaller pickup points. Always double-check the exact boarding location printed on your ticket or voucher.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

📸 Option #4 — Guided Day Tours by Car or Train

All-in-one Ideal for first-timers Less DIY flexibility

• Overview: Guided day trips bundle transport, a licensed local guide, and often monument tickets and lunch into a single package. Options include car-based tours straight from your Delhi hotel and train-based tours that put you on a superfast train (often Gatimaan Express) to Agra and back.
• Typical pricing: Depending on inclusions and group size, expect roughly INR 3,000–12,000+ per person for standard group or small-group options; private, fully customizable tours with premium inclusions cost more.
• How to book: Well-reviewed options are widely available. You can browse car-based and hybrid tours on GetYourGuide’s same-day Taj Mahal tours, train-focused trips on Klook’s express train day tour, or premium superfast-train experiences via Trip.com’s Gatimaan Express day trips.
• Official sites to cross-check timings & rules: While your operator handles tickets, it’s wise to confirm opening hours and entry rules on the Taj Mahal’s official site at tajmahal.gov.in and broader Agra tourism information from the state at Agra district tourism portal.
• Pros: Door-to-door logistics handled; local guide to explain history and help with photos; good for first-time visitors or anyone nervous about navigating Indian transport independently.
• Cons: Higher cost than DIY trains/buses; fixed itineraries; less freedom to wander or linger on your own schedule.

Step-by-step: Delhi–Agra Guided Tour

1. Pick your style (car vs. train-based): If you like the idea of a fast train and short car legs, choose a tour that includes superfast train tickets (often Gatimaan Express). If you prefer not to deal with stations, go for a private car tour straight from your hotel or the airport.
2. Compare inclusions: Look carefully at what’s included: hotel pickup/drop-off, train or car, monument entry tickets, licensed guide, lunch, bottled water, and tipping policy. Use pages like GetYourGuide’s Taj Mahal tour listings or Klook’s Agra day trips to filter options.
3. Book and confirm pickup details: Enter your hotel or airport pickup information carefully and watch for your voucher or confirmation email. Keep the local emergency contact number of your operator handy.
4. Follow your guide’s lead in Agra: Your guide will typically sequence the Taj Mahal (often first), then Agra Fort and possibly Baby Taj or Mehtab Bagh depending on time. Ask them about current photography rules, security restrictions, and recommended visiting order for the best light.
5. Return to Delhi: For train-based tours, you’ll board an evening superfast train back to Delhi and then be dropped at your hotel. For car-based trips, you’ll drive back along the Yamuna Expressway—have snacks and water ready for the ride.

Getting to the main embarking points (Hotel / Airport Pickup)

• Hotel pickups in Delhi/Noida/Gurugram: Most tours include direct pickup from centrally located hotels. Confirm whether your address is within the standard pickup zone and clarify any surcharges for outlying areas.
• Airport pickups: If you’re flying into Delhi and going straight to Agra, some operators offer direct airport pickup. This can save you a night in Delhi but makes for a long day—ideal if your schedule is tight.
• Self-arranged meeting points: Train-based tours often require you to meet at New Delhi or Nizamuddin stations at a set time. You can use Delhi Metro, Uber, or Ola to reach the station, or prebook a dedicated transfer if you have heavy luggage.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Delhi to Agra)

What is the best way to travel from Delhi to Agra for a one-day Taj Mahal visit?
Most travelers find that a superfast train (such as Gatimaan or other express services) offers the best balance of speed, predictability, and cost—especially for day trips. Pair the train with a local guide or pre-arranged tour that meets you at Agra Cantt for a smooth experience. If your group has a lot of luggage or you’re landing at Delhi Airport and continuing directly, a private car via the Yamuna Expressway is a very comfortable alternative.

How long does it take to get from Delhi to Agra?
On paper, superfast trains can cover the journey in roughly 1.5–3 hours station-to-station. By car on the Yamuna Expressway, expect around 3–4 hours door-to-door depending on where in Delhi you start and how heavy traffic is. Buses usually take 4–5 hours or more, especially if there are multiple intermediate stops or heavy traffic near the cities.

Do I need to book my train or bus tickets in advance?
Advance booking is strongly recommended for popular superfast trains and for travel during weekends, holidays, or school breaks. IRCTC tickets can sell out quickly, particularly in premium chair-car classes. Buses are more forgiving, but booking ahead gives you more choice in departure time and seat type, and can help avoid last-minute hassles at busy ISBTs.

Is it safe to travel between Delhi and Agra at night?
Many travelers prefer to make the journey in daylight, both for safety and comfort. Night trains and buses do operate, but if you’re unfamiliar with Indian highways or sleepy after a long flight, a daytime trip usually feels smoother. If you must travel at night by car, choose an experienced driver from a reputable operator, avoid overtired driving, and check seasonal advisories (e.g., fog on the Yamuna Expressway in winter).

How do I buy official tickets for the Taj Mahal?
Tickets for the Taj Mahal can be purchased online in advance, which helps you skip lines at the ticket window and see current entry rules. Use the official portals linked from the Taj Mahal’s official website or the Agra district’s official page for ticket booking at Ticket Booking of Taj Mahal. Guided tours booked via platforms like GetYourGuide or Klook often include monument tickets, but it’s still wise to understand the underlying rules and time slots.