Wondering how to get from Delhi to Agra? Or debating whether to book a train Agra to Delhi?
I admit we might be somewhat bias after months of traveling all around India by rail. But we reckon taking a train journey in India is a must-do experience.
The following is our very (honest) review and blog about train travel in India including everything you need to know for the train Agra to Delhi and return.
- Traveling by Train Delhi to Agra
- Options for Travel to Agra
- Options by Train
– Trains Delhi to Agra
– Trains Agra to Delhi - Our (Honest) Review
- Things To Know About Train Travel in India
- Buying Tickets
- Classes of Train Travel in India
- Railway Stations
– Delhi
– Agra - Boarding
- Food
- Toilets
- Accommodation in Agra & Delhi
Options for Travel Between Delhi and Agra
As two of the most iconic stops on India’s Golden Triangle circuit, Delhi and Agra are exceptionally well-connected. Because this route is a major artery for both international tourists and domestic travelers, you have several reliable ways to make the journey.
1. By Train (Our Top Pick)
We reckon the best way to travel is by train from Delhi to Agra and return by train Agra to Delhi.
We might be a bit biased, but we believe the train is the quintessential Indian travel experience. It is often the fastest and most efficient way to dodge the infamous North Indian traffic.
- Speed: The high-speed Gatimaan Express can get you there in just 1 hour and 40 minutes.
- Experience: It’s a great way to see the landscape and enjoy a bit of local adventure without the stress of navigating the highway.
2. Private Driver or Taxi
If you prefer door-to-door service and the ability to stop at your own pace, hiring a driver is a popular choice.
- The “All-In” Tour: If you have a pre-arranged North India tour, a driver is usually assigned to you upon arrival at Delhi Airport to handle your entire Golden Triangle loop.
- Daily Rates: A private car and driver generally costs between $100 – $150 USD per day. This typically covers your transport within and between Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur.
- Local Hire: For a simple day trip, your accommodation can easily arrange a local driver (without a guide) for a flat daily fee.
3. By Bus
For those on a tighter budget or looking for a last-minute option, buses are readily available.
- Variety: Options range from local government buses to more comfortable “Tourist” or “Volvo” coaches.
- Booking: You can usually have your guesthouse or hotel book these for you just a day in advance.
Read Everything To Know About Travel By Bus In India: How to take a Sleeper Bus, Tourist Bus or Local Bus.
Comparison at a Glance
| Method | Travel Time | Best For: |
| Train | 1.5 – 3 hours | Speed, comfort, and the classic India experience. |
| Driver | 3.5 – 4.5 hours | Flexibility and door-to-door convenience. |
| Bus | 4 – 5 hours | Budget-conscious travellers and local flavour. |
Note: If you are planning a day trip, we highly recommend taking the early morning train to Agra and returning on an evening service. It maximises your time at the monuments and minimizes time spent on the road!
Here is everything you need to know about making the journey by train Delhi to Agra and train Agra to Delhi.
Read more in our Very Honest Guide To Train Travel In India.
Train Travel between Delhi and Agra
There are in fact around 24 trains that run from Delhi to Agra on a daily basis!
It is a convenient way to travel between the two cities and it is one of the most popular train routes in India.
But there are differing services with some super-fast daytime trains and some that depart during the night and travel very slowly.
Options by Train Delhi to Agra
Navigating the Indian rail system is surprisingly simple once you focus on the “Express” options. For travellers heading to Agra, there are several high-speed daytime trains that make the journey quick, comfortable, and affordable.
To keep options simple (it is actually easy), these are the fast daytime trains from Delhi to Agra that connect the two cities.
Fast Train Morning Connections
If you want to maximize your time at the Taj Mahal, these early departures are your best bet:
- Vande Bharat Exp (#22470): The newest and most modern fleet in India.
- Departure: 06:00 from Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM).
- Arrival: 07:40 at Agra Cantt (AGC).
- Duration: 1h 40m.
- Note: Does not run on Mondays.
- Shatabdi Express (#12004): A classic, reliable choice that includes breakfast served at your seat.
- Departure: 06:10 from New Delhi (NDLS).
- Arrival: 08:45 at Agra Cantt (AGC).
- Duration: 2h 35m.
- Note: Runs daily.
- Gatimaan Express (#12050): Specifically designed for tourists, this is a “non-stop” style luxury service.
- Departure: 08:10 from Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM).
- Arrival: 09:50 at Agra Cantt (AGC).
- Duration: 1h 40m.
- Note: Does not run on Fridays (when the Taj is closed).
- Taj Express (#12280): A popular and budget-friendly daily option.
- Departure: 06:55 from New Delhi (NDLS).
- Arrival: 09:20 at Agra Cantt (AGC).
- Duration: 2h 25m.
The Afternoon Option
If you aren’t an early bird, there is a high-speed afternoon service perfect for reaching Agra in time for a sunset view from across the river.
- Vande Bharat Exp (#20172):
- Departure: 14:40 from Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM).
- Arrival: 16:16 at Agra Cantt (AGC).
- Duration: 1h 36m.
- Note: Does not run on Sundays.
Quick Comparison Table
| Train Name | From | Frequency | Time |
| Vande Bharat | NZM | Daily (Except Mon) | 1h 40m |
| Gatimaan Exp | NZM | Daily (Except Fri) | 1h 40m |
| Shatabdi Exp | NDLS | Daily | 2h 35m |
| Taj Express | NDLS | Daily | 2h 25m |
Tip: Pay close attention to your departure station! NDLS (New Delhi) is in the heart of the city, while NZM (Hazrat Nizamuddin) is located about 20–30 minutes further south.
- Book tickets for trains in India through 12GoAsia.com.
Options by Train Agra to Delhi
These are the main and fastest daytime options for the train Agra to Delhi:
- Vande Bharat Exp (#20171): This is a perfect option if you want to see the sights in the morning and be back in Delhi for a late lunch.
- Departure: 11:15 from Agra Cantt (AGC)
- Arrival: 13:16 at Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM)
- Duration: 2h 01m
- Note: Does not operate on Sundays.
- Gatimaan Express (#12049): This is the most popular return train for day-trippers. It allows you to spend a full day in Agra before whisking you back to Delhi in under two hours.
- Departure: 17:40 from Agra Cantt (AGC)
- Arrival: 19:30 at Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM)
- Duration: 1h 50m
- Note: The Gatimaan Express train Agra to Delhi does not operate on Friday (matching the Taj Mahal’s weekly closure).
Quick Comparison Table
| Train Name | Frequency | Departure (AGC) | Arrival (NZM) |
| Vande Bharat | Daily (Not Sun) | 11:15 | 13:16 |
| Gatimaan Exp | Daily (Not Fri) | 17:40 | 19:30 |
Tips for the Return Journey
- Station Consistency: Both of these premium services arrive at Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM). If your accommodation is in Central or North Delhi, factor in an extra 30–40 minutes for a rickshaw or Uber ride from the station.
- Meals Included: If you book “Executive Class” or “AC Chair Car” on these trains, a meal or snack and water are typically included in your ticket price and served at your seat.
- Booking Ahead: These two specific trains are very popular with tourists; it is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance to secure a seat.
Which Train to Choose?
Traveling by train Delhi to Agra or return train Agra to Delhi, we would recommend the seated highspeed trains.
Recommend Train Delhi to Agra
- GATIMAAN EXP #12050
- VANDE BHARAT EXP #20172
These trains arrive to Agra at the most convenient time of day.
It is slightly tricky arriving to Agra early in the morning as you will likely be too early to check in to your accommodation.
We recommend the Vande Bharat afternoon train Delhi to Agra.
Recommended Train Agra to Delhi
For the return train Agra to Delhi we recommend the most convenient departure time in the afternoon (so you have time to see the Taj Mahal at sunrise!):
- GATIMAAN EXP #12049
Each of these options from Delhi to Agra and the train Agra to Delhi cover the distance in less than two hours.
Our (Honest) Review of Travel by Train in India
I reckon that you can’t go to India and not experience train travel at least somewhere in the subcontinent.
It really is an amazing way to see the country!
I’ve lost count of how many train journeys we have made in all directions around India in the last few years. It is absolutely one of the highlights of our India Group Trips.
Plus from Delhi to Agra or return by train Agra to Delhi takes less than two hours. It is a convenient way to make this part of the journey to either start or complete your India itinerary in the capital.
And truly? It isn’t half as bad as you might be imagining or worrying.
Albeit we come from New Zealand and before setting off to travel fulltime over six years ago now, we hardly had ridden trains! There isn’t a subway in New Zealand and there isn’t really much public transport by railway.
So we find train travel in India extra-exciting!
But it is nothing like you might be imagining of riding on the roof with crowds of locals.
There are millions of passengers that travel every day in India by train; and especially the high speed and Express trains make it a comfortable way to travel.
Give or take a few chapati and potentially any cows congesting the railway stations, and you could – almost – be anywhere in the world! 🙂
Wondering about What To Wear In India?
Buying Tickets for the Train to Agra
Trains in India get booked out in advance.
After all, there are literally millions of people traveling on India Railways every day!
If you are booked on a tour and have a travel agent or booking contact in India it will be easier to book through them ahead of time.
Otherwise there are three options for you to book and buy tickets independently:
- Go to a railway station (in Delhi) and book in person when you arrive
- Book online directly from Indian Railways at the IRCTC website www.irctc.co.in
- Book online through third party 12GoAsia.
With the IRCTC website you really need to have an Indian phone number to log in which is tricky from overseas.
The easiest option is with 12GOAsia.
- Read Our Complete Guide to Train Travel in India and how to buy tickets for India Railways.
Want a Packing List For Travel In India?
Classes of Train Travel in India
There are eight different classes of train travel in India and each class has a different code.
These are the classes listed below in descending order according of price per fare:
- First Class (1A)
- Second AC: 2-Tier AC (2A)
- Third AC: 3-Tier AC (3A)
- AC Executive Chair Class (EC)
- Seated AC: AC Chair Car (CC)
- Sleeper Class (SL)
- General: Second Class Seats (2S, II)
- Unreserved General Class (UR)
However, the decision of which class to take for the route and trains Agra to Delhi is more straight forward as not all these classes are available on every train.
Classes of Travel on the Trains Between Delhi and Agra
The highspeed (Vande Bharat) and fast trains (Express) between Delhi and Agra have only seated classes of travel:
- VANDE BHARAT: CC, EC
- SHATABDI EXPRESS: CC, EC
- TAJ EXPRESS: 2S, CC
There are similar seated classes on the trains Agra to Delhi:
- GATIMAAN EXP: CC, EC
- VANDE BHARAT EXP: CC, EC
We always tend to opt for Chair Class (CC) if it is available for short-mid distance train travel.
It is a comfortable way to travel and in all honesty, the allocated chair style of seating means you won’t have to worry about sharing a berth-type seat with someone else.
The seats in Chair Class (CC) are set out like on an aeroplane with three seats on one side of the aisle and two on the other.
About the Delhi and Agra Railway Stations
Understanding the station layout is crucial for a smooth trip. Both Delhi and Agra are served by multiple stations, and they aren’t always close to one another.
Delhi’s Major Stations
Delhi is a massive rail hub with five primary stations.
Double-check your ticket code before you order your Uber or Rickshaw:
- New Delhi (NDLS): The main central hub, located near Connaught Place.
- Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM): Located in South Delhi; this is the primary departure point for high-speed trains like the Gatimaan and Vande Bharat.
- Old Delhi / Delhi Junction (DLI): The city’s oldest station, situated near the Red Fort.
- Delhi Cantt (DEC): Primarily serves trains heading west toward Rajasthan (Jaipur/Jodhpur).
- Delhi Sarai Rohilla (DEE): Used for many long-distance and AC-express trains.
Agra’s Major Stations
Agra has two main points of entry.
Most tourists will use “Agra Cantt,” but check your ticket to be sure:
- Agra Cantt (AGC): The busiest station in the city and the primary stop for high-speed trains coming from Delhi.
- Agra Fort (AF): Located very close to the Agra Fort itself; it typically serves trains heading toward the east or Jaipur.
Important: Check the Station Codes
It is IMPORTANT to look at the three- or four-letter station code on your e-ticket.
For example, if your ticket says NZM to AGC, you must go to Hazrat Nizamuddin in Delhi and you will arrive at Agra Cantt. Going to the wrong station is a common mistake that can lead to a missed train!
- Book tickets for trains in India through 12GoAsia.com.
Station Facilities in Delhi and Agra
Indian railway stations can be bustling and loud, but both Delhi and Agra offer several ways to wait for your train in comfort and air-conditioned peace.
Most of the Delhi Railway Stations have air-conditioned waiting-room options for passengers.
1. IRCTC Executive and Premium Lounges
These are private, paid lounges that offer a “VIP” experience. They are fully air-conditioned and provide a quiet sanctuary away from the main platform crowds.
Expect comfortable lounge chairs, dedicated charging points, clean restrooms, a TV, and a small café/shop for snacks.
- Cost: Access typically costs around 200 INR for two hours (subject to space availability).
- Locations:
- Delhi: Available at New Delhi (NDLS), Old Delhi (DLI), and Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM).
- Agra: Available at Agra Cantt (AGC).
2. AC Class Waiting Rooms
If you have a confirmed ticket for a premium class, you have access to the official AC Waiting Rooms at no extra charge.
You must be traveling in Executive Class (EC), AC Chair Car (CC), 1st Class AC (1A), or 2nd Class AC (2A).
- How to Enter: Simply show your ticket to the attendant at the door.
- Facilities: These rooms are air-conditioned and offer basic seating and restrooms. While less “luxurious” than the private lounges, they are a great free alternative.
- Locations: Available at all major Delhi stations (NDLS, DLI, NZM, DEC, DEE) and both Agra stations.
Tip: If you have a long layover at New Delhi (NDLS), the Executive Lounge is definitely worth the small fee for the cleaner bathrooms and more reliable Wi-Fi.
Things to Know Before the Train From Delhi to Agra
If this is your first train journey in India, it’s a good place to start.
The route from Delhi to Agra is a common journey and a short, straightforward trip to make during the daytime.
The main things to know before taking a train in India is all about the boarding and where to stand on the platform.
Boarding the Train to Agra or Delhi
There are a few things to know before boarding the train Agra to Delhi (or any train in India).
The first thing is to check you eTicket and find these details:
- Train Name and Number
eg. VANDE BHARAT EXP #20172 - Platform
eg. PL 5 - Carriage
eg. C1 or C2 - Seat
eg. 22 or 23
Arriving at the station in Delhi or Agra, look for the large electronic board with the scheduled departure times, expected arrival/departure times and the platform numbers.
You can confirm the platform number by using your train name or number.
Is There Food and Drinks Available on Board?
Yes. For the Vande Bharat Express trains Delhi to Agra meals are included in the ticket price.
Food is served in acrylic trays for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and in snack boxes for evening snacks.
Pre-mix tea and coffee are served with a stirrer, paper napkin, and hot water.
For the other Express trains Agra to Delhi, meals are not included in the ticket price. However, snacks and drinks are available for purchase on board the train.
Railway staff will come through the carriages with chai, water, drinks and snacks for sale.
What Are Toilets Like on the train?
On the highspeed and Express trains to and from Agra and Delhi there is the option of a western toilet or squat toilet in each carriage. Even the squat has a bio-vacuum style flushing toilet these days.
Quite the luxury! 😅
Planning for Agra and Delhi
Planning your itinerary for India and wondering how long you need in Agra and Delhi?
- Read Things To Do In Delhi, how to Visit the Taj Mahal and all the Other Best Things To Do in Agra.
Where to stay in Delhi
Wondering where to stay in Old Delhi, New Delhi, South Delhi or near the airport?
These are the hotels that we stay in Delhi and can recommend for your trip.
Paharganj and Connaught Place are the closest districts to New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS).
- Mahipalpur (Airport) – Mid-Range: Taurus Sarovar Portico
Beautiful hotel only a few km’s from Delhi International Airport. A great first stop arriving in India with buffet breakfast included and a restaurant onsite. - South Delhi – Mid-Range: Haveli Hauz Khas
A homestay style Haveli in the popular Hauz Khas area of South Delhi. - Connaught Place – Mid-Range-Luxury: Shangri La’s Eros Hotel
The hotel has a few in house restaurants, including the signature Shang Palace and Sorrento. There’s also a gym, an outdoor pool and a spa. - Paharganj – Budget: Smyle Inn
Extremely basic hotel in small back alley but with very friendly, helpful staff and simple breakfast included. Just off Main Bazaar.
Where to Stay in Agra Near the Taj Mahal
These are the hotels in Agra near the Taj Mahal that we use and recommend for your stay.
- Agra – Budget-Mid: Aman Homestay
Very friendly family-run homestay with rooftop views of The Taj Mahal. Great rickshaw driver service and home cooked meals. We stay here with our Group Trips to India. - Agra – Budget-Mid: The Coral House Homestay by the Taj
Located only 700 metres from Taj Mahal with a relaxing homestay feel and comfortable common areas. A great dinner and breakfast option. We really enjoyed staying here. - Agra – Mid-Luxury: Hotel Taj Resorts
Beautiful resort style accommodation only 600 metres from the Taj. Enjoy the incredible restaurant on-site and refreshing swimming pool.
Read more about travel in North India
- Epic 10 Day Rajasthan Itinerary.
- Things To Do In Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.
- 12 Things To Do In Kolkata.
- What To Wear In India.
- Local Desert Cuisine & Food To Try In Jaisalmer.
- Get The Bus From Jaisalmer To Jodhpur Or Bikaner.
- Get The Overnight Train Delhi To Jaisalmer.
- Taking The Train Jaipur To Jaisalmer.
- Jaisalmer To Jaipur (& Jodhpur) By Overnight Train.
Planning for Travel in India & Beyond
These are the companies we use while traveling fulltime as a family and that we would recommend to anyone planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation and it’s easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally.
- 12GoAsia – Book trains anywhere in Asia through 12Go.
- Skyscanner– This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide– Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world including everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
- SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Travel insurance tailored for longterm travel and nomads (including those who have already left home). Make sure you have travel insurance before riding those trains in India!