If you’ve ever found yourself dreaming of standing before the Taj Mahal, bathed in dawn’s golden light, marvelling at its symmetry and story, I'm here to tell you: it's absolutely worth the trek.

On my recent stay in India, I decided to make the journey from Delhi to Agra for the day. There are a few ways to do it, each with its pros and quirks, so here’s my take on how to plan a day trip to the Taj Mahal from Delhi, depending on your vibe and travel style.

Private Driver: Comfort and Customizable

If you’re like me and enjoy a little flexibility, and let’s be honest, air conditioning, this is the way to go. I arranged for a private driver through my hotel, and I’m so glad I did.

Why it worked for me:

Door to door convenience. My driver picked me up from the hotel lobby right after breakfast. No long taxi rides to stations, no queues to navigate.
Flexibility. We stopped for washroom break en route and had lunch prearranged at a nearby five star hotel after our tour. No rushing for departure times. The driver also added a stop on the way back to a local inlay stone workshop, where a multi generational family demonstrated how the Taj Mahal was adorned with lapis lazuli, mother of pearl, and other semi-precious stones. It was not only fascinating but a perfect way to connect deeper with the craftsmanship behind this wonder.
Comfort. AC, bottled water and a stop to stretch. It made the 3.5 hour drive down the Yamuna Expressway smooth and enjoyable.

How long?
About 3–4 hours each way on the Yamuna Expressway.

Cost?
Depends on the car and operator, but expect around $60–120 USD for the day depending on your level of comfort. Worth it for the convenience in my opinion.

Taking the Train: Quick, Efficient & So Very India

Even though I didn’t take the train this time, it’s undeniably one of the best options if you want to day trip. The Gatimaan Express and Shatabdi Express are the top picks, taking just 90-120 minutes from Delhi to Agra.

Why it’s great:

Extremely fast and efficient.
Affordable compared to hiring a car.
Ideal if you're used to navigating trains and like being around locals.

What to keep in mind:
You’ll need to book ahead, get to the station early, and sort a ride to the Taj once you arrive in Agra. If you’re comfortable with that, it’s a solid option.

Would I recommend it?
Absolutely, especially if you're a solo traveler or love seeing more of local life. Just make sure you book in advance, India’s trains fill up fast.

Bus: For the Adventurous or Budget-Friendly Traveller

Buses run between Delhi and Agra daily from central hubs like Sarai Kale Khan ISBT. They’re the most economical of all options—but they’re also the least flexible, especially for a day trip.

Why (or why not) the bus?

It’s by far the cheapest way to go.
They take longer (think 4–5 hours), which can eat into your sightseeing time.
Once in Agra, you’ll still need additional transport.

TBS Take: Bus travel in India is its own experience, but unless you're backpacking or have extra time, I’d recommend prioritizing comfort and efficiency with train or car.

Just Go. It’s Breathtaking.

By train, car, or bus, a day trip to the Taj Mahal is entirely doable from Delhi and 100% worth it. My private driver experience made the day comfortable and relaxing, and I’d absolutely do it that way again.

But however you go, go early, and be ready to be awestruck when you see the Taj in all its glory.

TBS Tip: Book your Taj Mahal entry ticket online in advance, and consider getting a local guide when you arrive. Not only does it help with navigating the crowds, but you’ll also get an insider’s take on the incredible (and sometimes heartbreaking) history behind this architectural love letter.