Agra, home to the Taj Mahal, is just 200 km from Delhi and is one of the most popular day-trip destinations for tourists and locals alike. The train is the fastest and most comfortable way to travel between the two cities.
Best Trains from Delhi to Agra
1. Gatimaan Express (12050) — Fastest Option
India's fastest train, running at up to 160 km/h. Departs Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM) at 08:10, reaches Agra Cantt at 09:50 — just 1 hour 40 minutes. Fully AC with meals included. Runs Monday to Saturday.
Return: Gatimaan Express 12049 departs Agra at 17:30, reaches NZM at 19:15.
2. Shatabdi Express (via Agra)
Several Shatabdi trains halt at Agra Cantt on their way to Bhopal, Lucknow or other destinations. These are AC-only with meals, departing from New Delhi (NDLS) between 06:00 and 08:00.
3. Taj Express (12279/12280)
Specifically designed for Agra day trips. Departs NDLS around 07:15, reaches Agra at 10:05. Returns around 18:45. Affordable non-AC option in 2S (Second Sitting) class.
4. Mail and Express Trains
Multiple trains from NDLS and NZM stop at Agra Cantt, giving you flexible departure times throughout the day. Sleeper class tickets from ₹120.
Delhi to Agra Train Timings
| Train | Departs | Arrives | Duration | Fare (CC) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gatimaan Express (12050) | 08:10 NZM | 09:50 AGC | 1h 40m | ₹695 |
| Taj Express (12279) | 07:15 NDLS | 10:05 AGC | 2h 50m | ₹120 |
| Shatabdi trains | 06:00–08:00 | ~2.5–3 hrs | 2.5–3h | ₹610+ |
Delhi to Agra: Which Station to Use?
- Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM) — Best for Gatimaan Express. Metro accessible (Hazrat Nizamuddin Metro on Pink Line).
- New Delhi (NDLS) — Most trains available, but busier. Metro on Yellow and Orange Line.
- Agra Cantt (AGC) — Main Agra station, closest to Taj Mahal. Autos and cabs available at the gate.
Taj Mahal Day Trip Plan by Train
- Board Gatimaan Express at NZM at 08:10
- Reach Agra Cantt at 09:50 — Taj Mahal opens at 06:00
- Visit Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Mehtab Bagh
- Board return Gatimaan at 17:30 from Agra Cantt
- Reach Delhi by 19:15
Book Tickets and Track PNR
Book on IRCTC website or Rail Connect app. After booking, track your PNR on PNR Alert for live status and free WhatsApp alerts if your ticket status changes.