Taj Mahal Sunrise Tour from Delhi

You will be picked up from your hotel in Delhi or any other convenient location to begin your Taj Mahal tour. Drive to Agra (243.4 km) along the Yamuna Expressway.

Arrival in Agra

Reach Agra and then get ready for your visit to the Taj Mahal after a quick pit stop for some tea and refreshments.

Visit the Taj Mahal

This is the highlight of your sunrise Taj Mahal tour, as you enter the historic monument that was built between 1631 and 1648 in Agra by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a tribute to his wife Mumtaz Mahal. The key highlight of your visit is that you can see the UNESCO World Heritage Site at sunrise as the rays fall on the ivory-white marble façade and create an unforgettable experience. You can thus get up close with the monument before the huge crowds start trickling in. Check out the enthralling architecture of the Taj Mahal, that fuses Central Asian, Persian, and Islamic styles while the main mausoleum is worth exploring with its central dome and four smaller minarets along with the octagonal marble chamber with semi-precious stone inlay work and low-relief carvings. Visit the cenotaphs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, while strolling through the lovely gardens and waterways. There’s also a charming museum on the premises that you can visit along with capturing lifetime photographs of the Taj at sunrise along with the pristine Yamuna in the backdrop.

Breakfast Stop

After you’re done exploring the Taj Mahal at sunrise, the next pit-stop will be at a local restaurant near the monument for a hearty local breakfast. Savor the rich flavors of Agra as you dig into a hearty meal here.

Journey to the Agra Fort

The next destination on your sunrise Taj Mahal tour from Delhi is the Agra Fort. It was built in 1565 AD by Mughal Emperor Akbar. Explore the sprawling complex which includes the Musamman Burj where Shah Jahan was imprisoned and passed away. This fort was the main residence of the Emperor until the year 1638 when the capital shifted away to Delhi. Check out the red sandstone architecture and the appealing palaces including the Khas Mahal (the living quarters of the Emperor Shah Jahan with fountains, lattice windows, and gorgeous ceilings) and Jahangir Palace along with the Diwan-i-Khas (hall of private audience that once had the Peacock Throne) and Diwan-i-Aam (hall of public audience). Then there is the Sheesh Mahal or Mirror Palace with thousands of small mirrors inlaid into the ceilings and walls to check out along with the Moti Masjid or Pearl Mosque. Anguri Bagh is a pristine garden that has been restored lately while the Nagina Masjid, Mina Masjid, and Amar Singh Gate are also worth exploring, along with the Ghazni, Khizri, and Delhi Gates.

Trip to the Local Bazaars

Enjoy a unique experience on your sunrise Taj Mahal tour as you stroll through Agra’s famous local bazaars. Purchase handicrafts and souvenirs along with buying the famous Petha sweets to take back home from your trip. You may choose the Sadar Bazaar near the Agra Cantonment railway station and browse leather items, shoes, souvenirs, and street food here. Another option is the Tajganj Market, which is just near the Taj Mahal and offers souvenirs, handicrafts, marble items, and gifts. Kinari Bazaar (near the Jama Masjid) is a great place to discover clothing, spices, and accessories, while the Subhash Bazaar is known for its bags, shoes, and other leather products. Some other famous markets include Raja Ki Mandi (dress material, fabric, sarees), Shah Market (electronics), and Hing Ki Mandi (shoes). Check out all these markets and then make your choices accordingly.

Return to Delhi

Wind up your sunrise Taj Mahal tour and get set for the drive back to Delhi, bringing the curtains down on an awe-inspiring experience.