A Comprehensive Guide To Get From Delhi to Agra

Agra, situated along the Yamuna River and approximately 130 miles from Delhi, is a captivating destination renowned for its architectural marvels. Prominently known for the iconic Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Agra is a pivotal point in the “Golden Triangle” tourist circuit, which also includes Delhi and Jaipur.

The city boasts numerous attractions, drawing tourists primarily for the Taj Mahal. While transportation to this historic city can be challenging, trains offer a swift option for round trips. For those considering a day trip, buses present an economical choice. However, many travellers opt for more convenient alternatives like private buses or taxis, with travel durations ranging from 3 to 5 hours based on the chosen mode.

Table of Contents

Facts about travel from Delhi to Agra

Distance: 220 km or 136 miles

Travel time:

By road: 3-4 hours (depending on traffic)
By flight: 5 hours
By train: 2 1/2 hours

Cheapest way: Bus

Quickest way: Train

Recommended way: Car or train

Must Know:

220 km or 136 miles from Delhi to Agra
3-4 hours by road, 5 hours by flight, 2 1/2 hours by train
The bus is the cheapest way to travel, train is the quickest (but can be cancelled last minute or delayed), car or train is recommended

How to get to Agra from Delhi?

There are a number of ways to get to Agra from Delhi, including by train, bus, car, and taxi.

Train: The train is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Delhi to Agra. The journey takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. There are several trains that depart from Delhi Railway Station and New Delhi Railway Station throughout the day.

Bus: Buses are a cheaper option than trains, but the journey takes longer, about 3-5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. There are several bus companies that operate buses from Delhi to Agra, and buses depart from various locations in Delhi, including the Kashmere Gate Bus Terminal and the Majnu Ka Tila Bus Terminal.

Car: Driving from Delhi to Agra takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes. The Yamuna Expressway is the fastest and most convenient route to take.

Taxi: Taxis are the most expensive option, but they are also the most convenient. Taxis can be hired from Delhi Airport, railway stations, and bus terminals.

Which mode of transportation is best for you?

The best mode of transportation for you will depend on your budget, time constraints, and personal preferences. If you are on a tight budget, the bus is the cheapest option. However, the journey takes longer, about 3-5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. If you are short on time, the train is the fastest option, with a journey time of about 2 hours and 15 minutes. Driving to Agra is a good option if you want the flexibility to stop and explore along the way. However, keep in mind that the journey takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes, and there are toll road fees to pay.

Delhi to Agra by Train

Booking train tickets:

You can book train tickets online through the Indian Railways website IRCTC or app, or at a railway station booking counter.

Popular trains from Delhi to Agra include:

Gatimaan Express:
- Train No.: 12049/12050
- Departure from Delhi: Around 08:10 AM
- Arrival in Agra: Around 09:50 AM
Bhopal Shatabdi:
- Train No.: 12001/12002
- Departure from Delhi: Around 06:00 AM
- Arrival in Agra: Around 08:06 AM
Taj Express:
- Train No.: 12279/12280
- Departure from Delhi: Around 06:45 AM
- Arrival in Agra: Around 10:06 AM
Shatabdi Express:
- Note: There are multiple Shatabdi Express trains. The Bhopal Shatabdi mentioned above is one of them. I’ll need a specific name or route to provide accurate timings.
Intercity-Express:
- Train No.: 14211/14212
- Departure from Delhi: Around 05:30 AM
- Arrival in Agra: Around 10:10 AM

Train ticket prices:

Train ticket prices vary depending on the class of travel and the train route. For example, a one-way ticket in the second-class air-conditioned class on the Gatimaan Express costs around ₹900.

Amenities offered on trains:

Most trains offer a variety of amenities, including air conditioning, toilets, and catering services.

Here are some tips for travelling by train to Agra:

Arrive at the railway station early, at least 30 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart.

Bring a valid ID card, such as your passport or Aadhaar card, with you.

Keep an eye on your luggage at all times.

Be aware of pickpockets and other scams.

Delhi to Agra By Bus

How to Book Bus Tickets from Delhi to Agra?

You can book bus tickets online through the websites of bus companies or through travel aggregators. You can also book bus tickets at bus terminals.

Which are the popular bus companies operating buses from Delhi to Agra?

Volvo
Scania
Mercedes-Benz
Bharat Benz

How much do bus tickets from Delhi to Agra cost?

Bus ticket prices vary depending on the bus company and the class of travel. For example, a one-way ticket in a Volvo bus costs around ₹500.

What amenities are offered on buses from Delhi to Agra?

Most buses offer a variety of amenities, including air conditioning, toilets, and reclining seats. Some buses also offer entertainment systems and charging points.

What are some tips for travelling by bus to Agra?

Arrive at the bus terminal early, at least 30 minutes before your bus is scheduled to depart.

Bring a valid ID card, such as your passport or Aadhaar card, with you.

Keep an eye on your luggage at all times.

Be aware of pickpockets and other scams.

Agra by Car

Renting a car in Delhi:

There are many car rental companies in Delhi. You can compare prices and rent a car online or at a car rental office.

Driving directions from Delhi to Agra:

The most direct route from Delhi to Agra is via the Yamuna Expressway. The journey takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Toll road fees:

There are toll road fees to pay on the Yamuna Expressway. You can pay the toll fees in cash or using a Fastag.

Parking options in Agra:

There are several parking options in Agra, including paid parking lots and street parking. Be sure to park your car in a safe and well-lit area.

Tips for driving to Agra:

When driving to Agra, be sure to obey the traffic rules and drive safely. Also, be aware of the traffic conditions and allow extra time for your journey.

Flying from Delhi to Agra

While it’s possible to fly from Delhi to Agra, there aren’t any direct flights, making it a less convenient travel option. With ticket prices averaging around £80, it’s also a pricier choice for this route.

Closest Airport to Taj Mahal:

Kheria Airport (AGR) is the nearest airport to the Taj Mahal, situated approximately 8km away. A drive from the airport to the Taj Mahal typically takes about 15 minutes.

Flight Duration from Delhi to Agra:

Indirect flights from Delhi to Agra have a total travel time of roughly 5 hours.

Booking Your Flight:

Flights can be booked directly through airlines or by using platforms like Skyscanner to compare options.

Why travelling from Delhi to Agra by Train is best option?

Taking a train is a favoured method to travel from Delhi to Agra, especially for those planning to visit the Taj Mahal on the same day. While the primary departure point in Delhi is the New Delhi Railway Station near Paharganj, many trains also leave from the Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station. In Agra, the main station is Agra Cantonment, which is roughly a 20-minute journey from New Delhi. For convenience, consider using prepaid taxis available at fixed rates.

Although the train journey itself is comfortable, purchasing tickets can be a bit complex. You can buy tickets online via the official Indian Railways website, but this requires account registration. Alternatively, several third-party websites offer ticket booking services for a commission. For those in Delhi, tickets are available at the Delhi Railway Station’s 24-hour counter. If you’re a tourist seeking a hassle-free booking experience, the International Tourist Bureau in Delhi is a recommended option. Given the high demand, it’s advisable to book your tickets well in advance.

Here are some top train choices for the Delhi-Agra route:

12002 New Delhi Habibganj Shatabdi Express: Ideal for early risers, this train departs from Delhi at 6 am and arrives in Agra by 7.57 am. With only one stop, it offers a swift journey. It operates daily and is known for its punctuality and cleanliness.
12280 Taj Express Superfast: This train takes approximately 3 hours to reach Agra, departing Delhi at 6.45 am and arriving in Agra by 9.32 am. It has four stops en route. While its punctuality is commendable, note that it doesn’t offer pantry services.
12050 Gatimaan Express: Recognized as the quickest train to Agra, the Gatimaan Express boasts various seating classes, with 1 AC executive class priced around Rs. 1,495 and CC seats ranging from Rs. 750 to 1,000. Prices may vary based on demand. This train doesn’t operate on Fridays. It’s renowned for its excellent onboard catering, offering both Continental and Indian dishes, and maintains high standards of cleanliness and punctuality.

Traveling from Delhi to Agra: Bus vs. Car

By Bus: Opting for a bus is an economical way to travel from Delhi to Agra. While numerous websites offer ticket bookings, it’s essential to choose wisely. Standard buses tend to be crowded and make multiple stops across cities. For a more comfortable journey, consider deluxe buses that offer air conditioning. The price difference between train and bus tickets is marginal. While personal preferences play a role in the choice between train and bus, buses often serve as a reliable last-minute travel option.

By Car: A one-way car trip to Agra typically costs around $40 for a sedan, with prices increasing for larger vehicles. The journey takes approximately 3 hours. A convenient way to rent a car is through your hotel or place of stay, ensuring the driver picks you up directly and manages the entire trip.

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Q: When is the Best time to visit Agra?

The best time to visit Agra is from October to February. Likewise, the summer months should be avoided. Make sure the trip doesn’t fall on a Friday as the Taj Mahal remains closed for religious purposes.

When at the Agra station, be prepared to deal with the beggars. Moreover, the touts sometimes claim to be the guides, so be aware of them as well. They promise free taxi rides with heavy discounts. There are 24 hours of prepaid taxi booths outside the railway station. Always book a taxi from there and avoid all other ways.

Q: What’s the most budget-friendly way to get from Delhi to Agra?

A: The cheapest way to travel from Delhi to Agra is by bus. You can find tickets for as low as ₹500 (US$6.25) on popular bus booking websites like RedBus and MakeMyTrip. Buses depart from various locations in Delhi, including the Kashmere Gate Bus Terminal and the Majnu Ka Tila Bus Terminal, and the journey takes about 3-5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

Q: What’s the quickest way to get from Delhi to Agra?

A: The fastest way to travel from Delhi to Agra is by train. The Gatimaan Express, a semi-high-speed train, takes just 2 hours and 15 minutes to reach Agra from Delhi. Other popular train options include the Taj Express and the Shatabdi Express, which take about 3 hours to reach Agra.

Q: Are there any direct buses or trains from Delhi to Agra?

A: Yes, there are several direct buses and trains that operate between Delhi and Agra. You can easily find direct buses on RedBus and MakeMyTrip, and direct trains can be booked through the Indian Railways website or app.

Q: How far is it from Delhi to Agra?

A: The distance between Delhi and Agra is about 210 kilometers (130 miles).

Q: What’s the best way to travel from Delhi to Agra without a car?

A: The best way to travel from Delhi to Agra without a car is by train or bus. Trains are the fastest option, while buses are the cheapest option. Both modes of transportation are reliable and convenient, with regular departures throughout the day.

Q: How long does it take to get from Delhi to Agra?

A: The travel time from Delhi to Agra varies depending on the mode of transportation. By train, the journey takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. By bus, the journey takes about 3-5 hours.

Q: Where can I catch the Delhi to Agra bus or train from?

A: There are several locations in Delhi where you can catch the bus or train to Agra. For buses, you can depart from the Kashmere Gate Bus Terminal, the Majnu Ka Tila Bus Terminal, or the Anand Vihar ISBT. For trains, you can depart from Delhi Railway Station or New Delhi Railway Station.

Q: Which is better, train or bus from Delhi to Agra?

A: The best mode of transportation for you depends on your budget, time constraints, and personal preferences. If you are looking for the fastest option, then the train is the way to go. If you are looking for the cheapest option, then the bus is the way to go. If you are looking for a more comfortable option, then you may want to consider taking a taxi.

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