2-Day Itinerary: From Lucknow to Vrindavan in July 2023
Day 1: Lucknow to Agra
Estimated Distance: 363 km via Taj Express Highway (Approx. 5 hours 30 min drive)
Visit the Taj Mahal
Morning: Start your day by visiting the magnificent Taj Mahal at sunrise. The cool breeze and the first light of day would make the visit even better. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is one of the world's most beautiful buildings and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Afternoon: Head to the Agra Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The red sandstone fort was built by Emperor Akbar and has some amazing structures including the Jahangir Palace, Diwan-i-Khas, Diwan-i-Am and Moti Masjid.
Evening: Enjoy the sunset at the Mehtab Bagh, located opposite the Taj Mahal on the other side of the Yamuna river. The park offers a stunning view of the Taj Mahal and is an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts.
Day 2: Agra to Vrindavan
Estimated Distance: 77 km via Yamuna Expressway (Approx. 1 hour 30 min drive)
Visit the Prem Mandir
Morning: Start your day by visiting the magnificent Prem Mandir. Built entirely of white marble, the temple is dedicated to Shri Radha Krishna and has some intricate carvings and sculptures. The temple is also famous for its light and sound show.
Afternoon: Head to the ISKCON Vrindavan temple, which is one of the largest temples in the area. The temple has some beautiful idols of Lord Krishna and Radha Rani. The temple also has a Govinda's restaurant which serves delicious vegetarian food.
Evening: Visit the Banke Bihari Temple, which is one of the most famous temples in Vrindavan. The temple has some beautiful architecture and is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple is especially famous for its 'Jhulan Yatra' festival.
Recommendations
If you have time, do visit the Fatehpur Sikri which is on the way from Agra to Vrindavan. The abandoned city was built by Mughal Emperor Akbar in the 16th century and has some amazing structures including the Buland Darwaza, Diwan-i-Khas, and Panch Mahal. You can also plan a day trip to Mathura which is just 15 km away from Vrindavan. Mathura is the birthplace of Lord Krishna and has some beautiful temples.
Time and Costs Estimates
Taj Mahal (2-3 hours, INR 50 for Indian Nationals, INR 1300 for Foreign Nationals)
Agra Fort (2-3 hours, INR 40 for Indian Nationals, INR 550 for Foreign Nationals)
Mehtab Bagh (1-2 hours, INR 20 for Indian Nationals, INR 200 for Foreign Nationals)
Prem Mandir (2-3 hours, Free Entry)
ISKCON Vrindavan Temple (2-3 hours, Free Entry)
Banke Bihari Temple (2-3 hours, Free Entry)
Total Estimated Costs: INR 1910 for Foreign Nationals and INR 110 for Indian Nationals