Plan a one-day trip to Agra: What to include in your Agra Itinerary
If you have only one day for your Agra trip, then first of all, book a hotel near the main attractions. Then, you can opt for a luxurious 5-star Jaypee Palace Hotel and Convention Centre in the heart of Agra. This way, you will save time while avoiding any hassles. In addition, you can enjoy Mughal-style architecture along with mouth-watering cuisine here.
Start early from Delhi, check into your hotel, relax, and start your trip to the Monument of Love. After enjoying this wonder in white marble, you can take a trip to Agra Fort, just adjacent to the Taj Mahal.
Choose an authentic place to enjoy Mughal delicacies. You can relax for some time near the pool or garden area of your hotel or take a relaxing spa at Tamaya Spa before venturing into the colourful markets of Agra.
Start your return journey by 5 or 6 p.m., and you’ll arrive in Delhi just in time for dinner.
How to Spend a Day in Agra – Ideas and Itineraries
Taj Mahal – 9 am to 11 am
Taj Mahal is one of the most iconic monuments in the world, and a visit to Agra is incomplete without exploring this stunning masterpiece of Mughal architecture. The best time to visit the Taj Mahal is between 9 am to 11 am, as the morning light illuminates the marble dome of the Taj, creating a mesmerizing view.
As you enter the complex, the first glimpse of the Taj Mahal will leave you spellbound. The intricate carvings, the flawless symmetry, and the sheer grandeur of the monument are awe-inspiring. Mughal emperor Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, and it took 22 years to complete this masterpiece.
As you walk through the gardens, you can see the Taj Mahal from different angles. It’s a good idea to take a guide to explain the history and significance of the monument. The intricate calligraphy on the marble walls, the stunning inlay work, and the elaborate designs on the minarets are a testament to the skills of the artisans of the Mughal era.
Inside the Taj Mahal, you will find the cenotaphs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal. The main chamber is decorated with precious stones and intricate designs. The play of light and shadow on the marble walls creates a mystical atmosphere that is hard to describe in words.
It’s worth noting that the Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays, and it’s advisable to book your tickets in advance to avoid the long queues. As the morning wears on, the crowds start to get thicker, so it’s best to explore the Taj Mahal in the early hours of the day.
A visit to the Taj Mahal is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that should not be missed. The stunning beauty of the monument, combined with its rich history, makes it one of the must-visit places in India.
Itmad-ud-Daulah Tomb – 11 am to 12 pm
The Itmad-ud-Daulah Tomb, also known as the Baby Taj, is a beautiful mausoleum located on the left bank of the Yamuna river in Agra. It is a must-visit destination for those interested in Mughal architecture and history. The tomb is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset, and if you plan to visit between 11 am to 12 pm, you will be able to witness the beauty of the monument in a relatively less crowded environment.
The Itmad-ud-Daulah Tomb was built by Nur Jahan, the wife of Jahangir, for her father Mirza Ghiyas Beg. It is said to be the inspiration behind the construction of the Taj Mahal and is considered to be a jewel in the crown of Agra’s architectural heritage.
As you enter the complex, you will be greeted by a beautiful garden with manicured lawns and fountains. The mausoleum is built of white marble and is adorned with intricate carvings and inlaid work. The interior of the tomb is equally impressive, with beautiful paintings and calligraphy adorning the walls.
The tomb also offers a beautiful view of the Yamuna river, and you can take a leisurely stroll on the riverbank to enjoy the scenery. You can also visit the nearby markets to indulge in some local shopping and food.
It is recommended to hire a guide who can explain the history and significance of the Itmad-ud-Daulah Tomb, as it adds a new perspective to the monument. Moreover, they can also help you with the best angles for photography and ensure that you have an unforgettable experience.
Visiting the Itmad-ud-Daulah Tomb between 11 am to 12 pm is the perfect time to witness the beauty of the monument and to avoid the crowds. Make sure to hire a guide and take a leisurely stroll along the Yamuna river to make the most of your visit.
Mankameshwar Temple – 12 pm to 12:30 pm
If you’re planning a one-day trip to the Taj Mahal from Delhi, it’s essential to make the most of your time in Agra by exploring other attractions as well. One such attraction is the Mankameshwar Temple, which is located in the heart of Agra city. Visiting this temple between 12 pm to 12:30 pm is an ideal way to add a spiritual dimension to your day trip and experience the cultural diversity of Agra.
The Mankameshwar Temple is a famous Shiva temple that dates back to the 18th century. The temple is known for its intricate carvings, beautiful gardens, and a peaceful atmosphere that attracts devotees and tourists alike. The temple is open to visitors from 5 am to 12 pm and from 4 pm to 9 pm, and the midday aarti ceremony takes place between 12 pm to 12:30 pm.
The midday aarti ceremony is an essential aspect of Hinduism, where devotees offer prayers and hymns to the deities. The ceremony at Mankameshwar Temple is a soul-stirring experience, with the sounds of bells and drums filling the air, creating a unique and peaceful ambiance. Witnessing the aarti ceremony is a great way to learn about Indian spirituality and culture and experience the devotion of the local people.
Adding a visit to the Mankameshwar Temple to your one-day trip to the Taj Mahal will not only add to your spiritual experience but also help you appreciate the rich cultural heritage of India. The temple is easily accessible from the Taj Mahal and other popular attractions in Agra. Dressing modestly and removing your footwear before entering the temple premises is advisable as a sign of respect for the deities.
Ram Bagh 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm
Continuing with the itinerary for a one-day trip to the Taj Mahal from Delhi, the next place is Ram Bagh. Ram Bagh is a beautiful garden located in Agra, which was built by the Mughal Emperor Babur in the early 16th century. Visiting the garden during the mid-afternoon hours provides a welcome break from the heat and humidity, making it a refreshing stopover during your day trip.
Ram Bagh, also known as the ‘Aram Bagh,’ is one of the oldest gardens in India, with a history that dates back to the Mughal era. The garden is adorned with lush greenery, well-manicured lawns, and fountains, making it a tranquil oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. The garden also boasts of several varieties of flora and fauna, making it a favorite spot among nature enthusiasts.
Apart from the natural beauty of the garden, Ram Bagh also has historical significance. The garden was initially built as a pleasure garden for the Mughal Emperors, and many of them spent time there relaxing and enjoying the surroundings. Additionally, the garden houses the tomb of the Mughal Emperor Babur, making it a significant landmark for history buffs.
Visiting Ram Bagh between 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm ensures that you beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful stroll through the garden. The mid-afternoon hours are relatively less busy, and the weather is conducive to outdoor activities. You can take a break from the sightseeing and relax in the garden, enjoying the cool breeze and the beautiful scenery.
Akbar’s tomb – 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm
The next stop on the itinerary for a one-day trip to the Taj Mahal from Delhi is Akbar’s Tomb, which is scheduled for 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm. The tomb is located in Sikandra, a suburb of Agra, and is the final resting place of the Mughal Emperor Akbar.
Akbar’s Tomb is a beautiful mausoleum that was built in the 17th century and is an architectural masterpiece. The tomb is made of red sandstone and is a blend of various architectural styles, including Hindu, Islamic, and Persian. The tomb is also surrounded by beautiful gardens that are perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Visiting Akbar’s Tomb during the afternoon hours is a great way to beat the crowds and enjoy the beauty of the place at your own pace. The tomb is less busy during this time, and you can take your time exploring the intricate details of the architecture and the serene surroundings.
Apart from the main tomb, Akbar’s Tomb also houses several other smaller tombs of members of the Mughal dynasty. The complex also has a museum that houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the Mughal era.
Visiting Akbar’s Tomb during a one-day trip to the Taj Mahal from Delhi is a great way to explore the rich history and architecture of Agra. The tomb is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture and is surrounded by beautiful gardens that offer a serene and peaceful environment.
Visiting the tomb during the afternoon hours is an ideal way to beat the crowds and enjoy the place at your own pace. Make sure to add Akbar’s Tomb to your itinerary for a well-rounded and enriching experience in Agra.
Shopping – 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm
After exploring the historical sites of Agra, the next item on the itinerary for a one-day trip to the Taj Mahal from Delhi is shopping, which is scheduled for 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.
Agra is famous for its handicrafts, including marble inlay work, leather goods, and textiles. Some of the best places to go shopping in Agra are Sadar Bazaar, Kinari Bazaar, and the Taj Mahal Complex. These markets are filled with small shops and street vendors selling a variety of items, from souvenirs and trinkets to high-quality handicrafts.
The Sadar Bazaar is located near Agra Cantonment and is a bustling market that sells everything from clothes to jewelry to spices. Kinari Bazaar, on the other hand, is a narrow lane that is famous for its colorful bangles, embroidered fabrics, and zari work.
If you’re looking for something more exclusive, head to the Taj Mahal Complex, where you can find some of the best handicrafts in Agra. The complex has several shops that sell marble inlay work, jewelry, and textiles.
When shopping in Agra, make sure to bargain hard, as the initial price quoted is usually much higher than the actual price. It is also essential to check the quality of the item before making a purchase.
Shopping is an essential part of any trip to Agra, and a one-day trip to the Taj Mahal from Delhi is no exception. Agra is famous for its handicrafts, and the Sadar Bazaar, Kinari Bazaar, and the Taj Mahal Complex are some of the best places to go shopping. Make sure to budget enough time for shopping and don’t forget to bargain hard to get the best deals on high-quality handicrafts.
Agra Fort – 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
The last stop on the one-day trip to the Taj Mahal from Delhi is the Agra Fort, scheduled for 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. The Agra Fort, also known as the Red Fort, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination in Agra.
Built-in the 16th century, the Agra Fort was the residence of Mughal emperors until the capital was shifted from Agra to Delhi. The fort is built of red sandstone and consists of various palaces, mosques, and gardens.
One of the highlights of the Agra Fort is the Jahangir Palace, built by Emperor Akbar for his son Jahangir. The palace is a perfect blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture and has beautiful carvings and intricate designs on its walls.
Another must-visit destination within the Agra Fort is the Diwan-i-Am, or the Hall of Public Audience. It is a large hall with a throne room where the Mughal emperors held public audiences and meetings with their officials.
The Agra Fort also has a museum where you can learn about the history of the fort and the Mughal era. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, including weapons, paintings, and manuscripts.
Visiting the Agra Fort in the evening is a great way to avoid the heat and crowds that can be overwhelming during the day. The fort is also illuminated at night, making it a beautiful sight to behold.
The Agra Fort is a must-visit destination in Agra and a perfect way to end a one-day trip to the Taj Mahal from Delhi. With its rich history and beautiful architecture, the fort is a testament to the grandeur and power of the Mughal Empire. Make sure to budget enough time to explore the various palaces, gardens, and museums within the fort, and take in the breathtaking view of the Taj Mahal from its walls.
Read More: Short Weekend Trip to Agra
Conclusion
Though Agra is a top-rated tourist site in India, it is possible to make the journey to Agra from Delhi on a day trip. The majesty of the Taj Mahal can be experienced in Agra in a single day with proper planning and a convenient stay.
