26 Feb 2023
I am so happy I booked with Delight Tours. As a solo female traveler I had a full day layover in India and wanted to see the Taj Mahal. Delight Tours sent a driver (Jeetu) to airport to drive me to Agra where we picked up Ismal, my tour guide.
I got so lucky!! My driver was super friendly, he stopped about half way through the 3hour drive at a famous place for Masala tea (Chai tea) and the bathroom. This stop is outside of Delhi. So, ladies be prepared to have tissue with you if you need to use the bathroom/toilets.
Islam is the king of all tour guides!! He’s been doing this for 30 years!! He knew everything and took the very best pictures! Trust him, and give him your phone. Lol. do not hire any photographers on the grounds, you won’t need them!
After Taj Mahal, you’re brought to a nice shop where marble inlay goods are sold. It’s like all the 7 wonders of the world tours, there’s a place where everything is “hand made” by the local people and the local government sanctions it. Idk how much of it is true. But I can say, there are some really nice pieces in the store. I only saw foreigners in the store. No prices listed on the items, and prices quoted were relatively high. Note, I have an American accent so not sure how other tourists will experience this part of the tour.
Afterwards, lunch is at a nice Marriott Courtyard. Buffet style with Indian cuisine, salad, soup, and dessert. Any drinks, etc. off the menu is not included. Get the garlic naan bread, it’s a must (~$2)!!
The tour ends at Agra Fort. The fort is massive, and only 1/3 of it is open for public viewing. Wear walking shoes as stairs and slopes are throughout!!
My departing flight was at 9pm and we left Agra at 4pm. This was plenty of time on a Saturday to return to Delhi airport and make my flight. Traffic was a bit crazy but nothing unmanageable for India.