A Newlywed Adventure: Our First Journey to the Taj Mahal
After recently getting married, my husband and I were eager to start our journey together with a special trip. Living in Delhi, the Taj Mahal seemed like the perfect destination for our first adventure as a couple. So, one Saturday morning, we set out on a short yet exciting road trip to Agra.
The Journey from Delhi to Agra
We left Delhi early, knowing the drive to Agra is about 222 km via the Yamuna Expressway, which takes around 3 to 4 hours. The route is smooth but does have tolls, so keep that in mind if you’re planning a similar trip. By around 12 p.m., we arrived in Agra and checked into the Radisson Blu Hotel, just a five-minute drive from the Taj Mahal. The hotel’s location was super convenient, making it easy for us to explore the city.
Exploring Agra’s Markets and Local Delights
Before diving into the Taj Mahal visit, we wanted to explore Agra’s famous market scene. We couldn’t leave without picking up some of the city’s renowned sweet petha and, of course, indulging in the local cuisine. Agra’s street food is full of flavor and authenticity, making it a must-try for food lovers.
Taj Mahal at Night: A Lesson Learned
We had heard that seeing the Taj Mahal at night is a unique experience, so we were excited to check it out. However, we soon realized we had made a rookie mistake. The Taj Mahal only truly glows under the light of a full moon, which we didn’t know beforehand. On top of that, visitors aren’t allowed to get close to the Taj Mahal at night. Instead, you’re taken by bus to one of the gates and can only view it from a distance. Needless to say, it was a bit of a disappointment.
A Romantic Dinner to Remember
Not letting the night visit get us down, we headed back to our hotel and enjoyed an amazing poolside dinner, complete with live music from a band. The ambiance was perfect, and it turned out to be a really romantic evening — one of those moments that make you feel lucky to be experiencing it together.
Sunrise at the Taj Mahal
We knew the key to enjoying the Taj Mahal was to visit early in the morning, so we got up around 5 a.m. and were at the gates by 5:45. The early start paid off — the sky was clear, the crowds were minimal, and the lighting was perfect for photos. With fewer tourists around, we had the chance to capture some stunning pictures without the usual hustle and bustle.
By 9 a.m., we were back at the hotel for a relaxing breakfast, satisfied with our visit and the memories we had made. Soon after, we hit the road back to Delhi via the Yamuna Expressway, arriving home with our hearts full from a beautiful weekend.