Introduction
India is a land of enchanting destinations, vibrant cultures, and rich history. One of the most iconic and historical journeys in this beautiful subcontinent is the train ride from Delhi to Agra. This captivating voyage offers travelers a chance to embark on a passage through time and explore the heart of North India. As you board the train, you’re not just traversing the tracks, but taking a ride through centuries of history, architecture, and culture.
The Route
The journey begins at the heart of India’s bustling capital, New Delhi, from where you’ll board a train heading towards Agra, a city located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, approximately 230 kilometers to the south. The distance might not be vast, but the experiences along the way are certainly monumental.
The Iconic Trains
While there are several trains connecting these two historic cities, the most popular option is the Gatimaan Express. It’s renowned as India’s fastest train, and it offers a luxurious and comfortable experience, allowing you to reach Agra in just a little over an hour. Alternatively, you can choose from other options like the Bhopal Shatabdi Express or the Taj Express.
Scenic Delights
The journey from Delhi to Agra provides a unique glimpse into the diverse landscapes of North India. As your train departs from Delhi, you’ll pass through urban sprawls, rural villages, and lush countryside. Marvel at the colorful houses and bustling markets, all set against a backdrop of rolling fields and distant hills.
The Mughal Marvel
What makes this train journey truly remarkable is the destination at its end. Agra is home to one of the most iconic monuments in the world, the Taj Mahal. As your train approaches Agra, you’ll catch a glimpse of the mesmerizing white marble mausoleum peeking over the horizon. The anticipation and excitement build as the train draws closer to the Agra Cantt station.
A Glimpse of History
As you disembark the train, you are transported back in time. Agra is a city with a rich history, filled with Mughal architectural masterpieces, bustling bazaars, and a unique blend of cultures. A visit to the Taj Mahal is a must, but don’t miss other gems like Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, and Mehtab Bagh, which all offer a rich dose of history, art, and culture.
Culinary Delights
No journey in India is complete without savoring the local cuisine. Agra is famous for its delectable Mughlai dishes. From succulent kebabs to fragrant biryanis, the city’s food scene is a delightful journey in itself. Don’t forget to try the mouthwatering petha, a sweet treat that’s unique to Agra.
The People and Culture
The train journey also offers a glimpse into the lives and cultures of the people of North India. You’ll see passengers from all walks of life, all sharing the same tracks, creating a vibrant tapestry of Indian diversity. Strike up conversations, share stories, and experience the warmth and hospitality that India is known for.
Conclusion
Travelling by train from Delhi to Agra isn’t just about getting from point A to point B. It’s a voyage that immerses you in history, culture, and the beauty of India. The experience is a celebration of the past, the present, and the incredible diversity of this magnificent country. So, next time you plan a trip to India, make sure to hop on a train and take this memorable journey from Delhi to Agra, where the magic of the Taj Mahal awaits you.
And … heres our more realistic down to earth experience of Delhi to Agra on the train……
Early start (2am) courtesy of the pyromaniacs, fighting dogs and music beneath our window.
At 7am breakfast began, a wide and wonderful selection of curries were avalible and we had toast jam and eggs enjoyed.
Back in our room had a quick read about the day ahead, checked out New Delhi Station online, ticket confirmation came via email and set the standard for the confusion and chaos we predicted (correctly) that the day would bring.
Arrived at station after a quick tuk tuk ride 1hr early. Bags and ourselves went through xray scanner. No scamming or touting that we had been warned about but boy was it confusing…various numbers over the screens which didnt have wires dangling from them, shouting tannoy announcements which didnt entirely tally with the info on screen, we snailed around looking for our train number and platform, nowhere to be found. We did however notice that the amount of metres above sea level that Delhi is was displayed on signs…useful. Eventually gave up and left the station and Headed for the ‘International tourism bureau’ which we had tried to be so savvy and avoid. Took ticket number 8 to wait to be served. Next number called was 36. Just ambled up to random lady in the end who gave us all the info we required…train is 1hr late and departs from platform 9. (Our ticket said platform 5 tannoy said platform 4!) This delay sounds annoying but most of the other trains were delayed by 9 or 10 hours, if they wernt just cancelled, so this was all good news. Apparently the delays are caused by it being winter…its 22 degrees today…Found platform 9, via another station entrance you could come in by that didnt require x ray scanning (ie an open door!)
Excitingly train turned up as planned, after we spent all of 65p on a packet of biscuits, 2 drinks and some sugary crisps.
Boarded our train. Amazingly ticket man had our details on his list! We were off to Agra!
Trained lunged slowly but somehow dangerously through the poorest parts (we assume) of Delhi, for quite a while before the landscape changed to farm land. We saw peacocks, monkeys, cranes, parrots, camels (!) chipmunks, eagles, pigs, dogs, cows, goats….and so much rubbish its hard to believe its real…the tracks were used not only for the trains, but as a public footpath, public toilet, public bed and place to hold cattle and goats.
Spent longer than maybe we would have liked in a place ironically called ‘Baad’ but entertained ourselves by trying to guess what on earth the massive bone we had stopped next to once belonged to. Had eaten all journey snacks at this point. Should have arrived in Agra hours ago, sunset view of the Taj was looking unlikely.
Arrived around 5.30pm in Agra (should have been 1pm, not a complaint heard from anyone though) and did what all the guide books advise you not to do, went with the first tuktuk driver to offer his services…but you cant really argue with all of £1.20 charge, plus, for free, ‘VJ’ dispensed many a compliment to Rach during the 15min hair raising ride to the hotel…apparently she is ‘more beautiful than the Taj Mahal’ among other interesting comparisons. The flattery worked…VJ is now our personal tour guide of Agra and we meet him bright and early 6.30am tomorrow for sunrise. Jinglelala, as he kept saying…enjoy life…what will be will be!
VJ dropped us of at our hotel, a Hilton doubletree Agra and with a huge smile waved us goodbye for the evening and advised us not to leave the hotel as we would get our bags stolen. As we strolled in the security gate closed behind us and we began our brief, unexpected (this was not expensive) life as a VIP. The Arga Hilton is a beautiful marble building, glamerous in every way, fountains in the foyer, incredibly polite staff. We were sat down on squishy sofas and were given a warm cookie to enjoy while our room key was being sorted. Showed to our room which was probably the nicest hotel room we have ever and will ever lay eyes on (why is this only a 1 night stay) and settled in with a cuppa to watch the evening view from our window. Then went for a swim, which was arctic cold but refreshing after being on the train for so long, followed by a steam room session.
We then went to dinner and opted for the buffet which, at nearly £12 a head is by far the most expensive meal option we have seen in India, but blimey that was good! A lovely waiter made us (from the safety of our hotel!) authentic street snacks which were delicious, we had soups (Entertaining coughing fit from Khun Philip after he forgot even something as harmless looking as soup here is likely to contain a sneaky chilli) wonderful Asian and Indian fare and at least 10 different desserts.
Went for a walk around the hotel afterwards, went to the 24hr on site ‘cake shop’ (yes its a real thing) then found ourselves in the Hotel market shop from the safety of the hotel. Immediately surrounded by gentlemen who seemed to appear from the walls to show us the many wonders we could exchange our cash for…these men are good! Somehow we left with our hands full…not sure what happened…no worry chicken curry
