Taj Mahal Tour with Boat Ride

• Arrival in Agra: Upon arrival in Agra, you’ll meet your professional guide who will accompany you throughout the tour.
• Visit Taj Mahal (8:00 AM): Begin your exploration of Taj Mahal, jewel of Mughal architecture and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a symbol of love for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal is known for its pristine white marble structure, intricate carvings, and stunning symmetry. Your guide will take you through rich history and symbolism of monument, sharing stories of love, loss, and immense dedication.
  • Key Features of the Taj Mahal: Admire the main dome, the four minarets, the detailed pietra dura inlay work. The gardens that form the famous Charbagh layout. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the inner chamber, where the tombs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal are housed.

Boat Ride (10:00 AM): After exploring the Taj Mahal on foot, embark on a tranquil boat ride along the Yamuna River. This boat ride offers a serene escape from the crowds and presents you with a mesmerizing reflection of the Taj Mahal in the calm waters. The experience allows you to admire the monument from a different angle, capturing its beauty from the rear side. This view is often less crowded and provides perfect photographic opportunities, especially with the sun illuminating the white marble.

• Sunrise Option: If you opt for a sunrise tour, you’ll witness the first rays of sunlight hitting the Taj Mahal, creating a golden glow on the white marble. This ethereal sight, combined with the peaceful ambiance of the river, is an unforgettable experience.

Visit Agra Fort (11:30 AM): After your boat ride, head to the Agra Fort, a massive red sandstone structure that was the seat of Mughal power before the capital was shifted to Delhi. The fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains several palaces, mosques, and audience halls that tell the story of the Mughal Empire’s grandeur. Your guide will walk you through Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience), Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), and the Khas Mahal.

• The Musamman Burj within the fort offers a panoramic view of the Taj Mahal, and it is said that Emperor Shah Jahan spent his final years here, gazing at his creation across the Yamuna River.

Lunch (1:00 PM): After exploring the fort, you can choose to stop for lunch at a local restaurant to savor Mughlai cuisine, famous in Agra. Enjoy dishes like biryani, kebabs, and tandoori preparations. Your guide will suggest the best places to eat based on your preferences.

Mehtab Bagh Visit (2:30 PM): After lunch, head towards Mehtab Bagh, a beautiful garden complex situated directly opposite the Taj Mahal, on the northern banks of the Yamuna River. This garden is part of the original Mughal vision for the Taj Mahal complex and was designed to provide an uninterrupted view of the monument. The garden is a favorite spot for photographers, especially during sunset when the Taj Mahal is bathed in a golden hue. Spend time walking through the serene surroundings, taking in the view of the Taj from across the river.

• Photography Opportunity: Mehtab Bagh is perfect for capturing stunning photographs of the Taj Mahal from a distance, especially with the play of light during different times of the day.

Explore Local Crafts (4:00 PM): If you’re interested in handicrafts, Agra is famous for its marble inlay work, leather goods, and handwoven carpets. Your guide can take you to a local artisan shop where you can see craftsmen at work and browse souvenirs.

Return to Delhi (5:00 PM): After a day filled with architectural marvels and scenic beauty, you’ll be driven back to Delhi. Your driver will drop you off at your hotel or preferred location, concluding the tour by the evening (around 8:00 PM).