Day 1: Delhi to Agra

At 9am, you'll be picked up from the airport or hotel in Delhi and drive to Agra (3 hours) via the express highway. Reach city of the Taj Mahal, Agra. In the early afternoon, enjoy a lunch break provided at one of the best local air-conditioned restaurant.

In the evening, you have two options you can choose from. Enjoy a photo tour of Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh - The Moonlight Garden, believed to have been designed by Shah Jahan to view the Taj on moonlight nights, far away from the maddening crowd. The garden complex is situated on the left bank of Yamuna opposite to Taj Mahal. It is a huge square measuring approximately 984 x 984 ft (300 x 300 m) and in straight alignment with the Taj Mahal. The forestry plantations and agricultural fields provide a green forecourt to Taj Mahal and its reflection in Yamuna. Your second option would allow you to enjoy shopping in Agra, known for its fabulous handicrafts made of marble and soft stone inlay work.

The Mughals were great patrons of arts and crafts. Empress Nur Jahan took personal interest and was an accomplished artist herself in zari embroidery work.

Agra's major handicraft products besides inlay work are: leather ware, brass-ware, carpets, jewelry and embroidery work. Overnight: Crystal Sarover Primer, Four Point by Sheraton or similar.

You'll be picked up from your hotel in Agra and visit for world famous Taj Mahal, A UNESCO World Heritage site. (Taj Mahal closed on Fridays). In the late morning, visit the imposing UNESCO World Heritage site - Agra Fort. Built by Emperor Akbar in 1565 A.D., this huge fort is made of red sandstone. The elegant buildings inside reflect an interesting synthesis of Hindu and Central Asian architectural styles. The maze of the courtyards, mosques and private chambers of the fort echo the story of the Mughal Empire.

In the early afternoon, savor lunch at one of the areas best local air-conditioned restaurants. Afterwards, visit Agra then drive back to Delhi arriving around 5pm at your hotel or airport.