The Gatimaan Express was India's first semi-high-speed train when it started running in 2016, and it is still the quickest way from Delhi to Agra. It turns a long road day into a short train ride, which is why our Taj Mahal tour by Gatimaan Express is one of the most booked trips on this site.

Gatimaan Express timings

  • Delhi to Agra (train 12050): leaves Hazrat Nizamuddin at 8:10 am, reaches Agra Cantt at about 9:50 am
  • Agra to Delhi (train 12049): leaves Agra Cantt at about 5:35 pm, reaches Hazrat Nizamuddin at 7:30 pm
  • Runs six days a week — not on Fridays
  • Journey time: roughly 1 hour 40 minutes each way

Which station in Delhi?

The train starts from Hazrat Nizamuddin, not New Delhi station. It is in south-east Delhi, about 30–45 minutes from Connaught Place in early-morning traffic and a little more from Gurgaon or the airport. On our tours a driver collects you around 7 am and walks you to your coach.

Classes and meals

There are two classes, both air-conditioned: Chair Car (CC) and Executive Class (EC). Executive has wider seats with more legroom. A meal or snack is served on board in both, so breakfast on the way out and a snack on the way back are taken care of.

How the day runs

  1. 7:00 am — hotel pickup and transfer to Hazrat Nizamuddin
  2. 8:10 am — the Gatimaan Express leaves Delhi; breakfast on board
  3. 9:50 am — your guide meets you at the coach in Agra Cantt
  4. 10:00 am — the Taj Mahal, with time for photographs
  5. 1:00 pm — lunch
  6. 2:00 pm — Agra Fort, then the Baby Taj if time allows
  7. 5:35 pm — the evening train back to Delhi
  8. 7:30 pm — your driver meets you at Nizamuddin and drops you at your hotel

Train or car — which is better?

The train is faster and more interesting, and you avoid six hours on the road. The car is more flexible — you can leave earlier for sunrise, stop at Mathura or Sikandra, and travel door to door. For couples and solo travellers the train is usually our recommendation; for families and groups of four or more, the same day tour by car works out better value.

Frequently asked questions

Does the Gatimaan Express run on Fridays?
No. It runs six days a week and rests on Fridays — the same day the Taj Mahal is closed.
How long does the Gatimaan Express take from Delhi to Agra?
About 100 minutes from Hazrat Nizamuddin to Agra Cantt.
How do I book Gatimaan Express tickets?
Through IRCTC, Indian Railways' booking site, or let us book them as part of the tour so tickets, transfers and the guide are all lined up.
Is food included on the Gatimaan Express?
Yes, a meal or snack is served on board in both classes.