Monday, August 11, 2025

Budget Taj Mahal Day Trip from Delhi – How to Save Money

Budget Taj Mahal Day Trip from Delhi – How to Save Money (Cheapest transport, affordable eats, free attractions)

(Cheapest Transport, Affordable Eats, Free Attractions)

Visiting the Taj Mahal doesn’t have to break the bank. If you're planning a day trip from Delhi to Agra, here’s how to experience the magic of this UNESCO World Heritage Site on a budget.

🚆 Cheapest Transport: Delhi to Agra

1. Train (Best Budget Option) Taj Mahal Tour by Train

Train Name: Gatimaan Express (fastest) or Intercity Express (cheaper)
Fare: ₹100–₹750 one-way (depending on the class)
Duration: 2–3 hours
Booking: IRCTC or platforms like Paytm/MakeMyTrip

Pro Tip: Take an early morning train (e.g., 6–8 AM) and return in the evening.

2. Bus

Type: UPSRTC or private Volvo buses
Fare: ₹200–₹500
Duration: 4–5 hours
Departure: Anand Vihar ISBT, Delhi

3. Shared Cabs / Carpooling Apps

Platforms like BlaBlaCar sometimes offer rides for ₹300–₹500.

🏛️ Budget-Friendly Attractions in Agra

✅ Must-See (With Entry Fee):

Taj Mahal: ₹50 (Indian citizens), ₹1100 (foreigners)
Agra Fort: ₹50 (Indians), ₹650 (foreigners)

Combo tickets are available online to save more.

🆓 Free & Low-Cost Sights:

Mehtab Bagh (₹25): Offers a great view of the Taj across the Yamuna.
Taj Nature Walk (₹20): Scenic paths with Taj views.
Kinari Bazaar: A lively market – perfect for walking, window shopping, or picking up souvenirs.

🍛 Affordable Eats in Agra

Budget Food Spots:

Deviram Sweets: Famous for bedai (₹50–₹70) and jalebi
Mama Chicken (MG Road): Street-style non-veg meals (~₹100–₹150)
Lakshmi Vilas: South Indian thali from ₹80
Local dhabas: Found near the railway station or main tourist spots

Bring Snacks:

Carry light snacks and a refillable water bottle to cut down on costs.

💡 Bonus Budget Tips

Avoid private guides unless officially registered – use audio guides or apps instead.
Buy tickets online at the ASI site to avoid long queues and access discounts.
Group travel: Traveling with friends reduces shared transport/taxi costs.
Off-peak travel: Weekdays are less crowded and may have lower rates.

✅ Total Estimated Budget (Per Person – Indian Traveler)

Item	Cost (INR)
Train (Round Trip)	₹200–₹750
Taj Mahal Entry	₹50
Food & Snacks	₹150–₹300
Local Transport	₹100–₹200
Total	₹500–₹1300