Agra on a Budget: Taj Mahal and Beyond

Explore the Taj and more with Agra on a low-cost score!

21 June 2023

A visit to Agra, India on a limited budget can still be a memorable experience. The top attraction, the Taj Mahal, can be seen for under $10 USD. Cheap accommodations and street food can be found throughout the city, making it possible to experience the city without spending much money.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Taj Mahal

  • Check-in at Hotel Taj Prince, a budget hotel with clean and cozy rooms.
  • Wake up early and head straight to the Taj Mahal to avoid the crowds.
  • Marvel at the beauty of the ivory-white marble structure and the intricate details of the inlaid precious stones.
  • Learn about the history and legendary love story behind the monument from a local guide.
  • Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast at Shankara Vegis, a vegetarian restaurant located near the Taj Mahal.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 16th century.
Day 2

Discovering Old Agra

  • Start the day with a cup of chai and some local snacks at Mama Franky's, a popular street food joint.
  • Visit the tomb of Emperor Akbar, a magnificent structure made of red sandstone.
  • Experience the everyday life of locals by visiting the Kinari Bazaar, where you can find everything from spices to handicrafts.
  • Explore the Mughal Heritage Walk, a guided tour that will take you through the narrow alleys, colorful markets and ancient mosques of Old Agra.
  • Make a stop at Panchhi Petha, a legendary sweet shop that has been around since the 17th century, and try their famous pumpkin sweets.
  • End the day with a dinner at Joney's Place, a rooftop restaurant that offers delicious Indian and Continental cuisine, and stunning views of the Taj Mahal.
  • Note: It's recommended to hire a local guide who can help you navigate through the city and give you interesting insights about Agra's history and culture.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Agra by plane is to fly into Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi and then take a domestic flight to Agra's Kheria Airport.

Car

Driving from Delhi to Agra is also a viable option. The 233 km journey takes approximately 4 hours via the Yamuna Expressway. You can rent a car or hire a taxi from Delhi.

Train

If you prefer to travel by train, the best option is to take the Gatimaan Express from Delhi to Agra. It departs from Hazrat Nizamuddin railway station in Delhi and arrives at Agra Cantt railway station in Agra.

Boat

Unfortunately, there are no boat services available to Agra as it is located far inland and the closest water body is the Yamuna River. It is not possible to reach Agra by boat.

Bus

Taking a bus from Delhi to Agra is a popular option as well. Multiple bus operators offer daily services from Delhi's Interstate Bus Terminal to Agra's Idgah Bus stand.

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