Our family’s journey from Varanasi to Agra by night train was a mix of delays, adventures, and baby-friendly travel tips.
Table of Contents
- Main Journey
- Events
- Tips for Traveling with a Baby
- Local Travel Tips
- Travel Reflections
Main Journey in Overnight Train from Varanasi to Agra
Our journey from Varanasi to Agra continued as the overnight train, already significantly delayed, finally rolled into Agra over nine hours past schedule. The blazing heat greeted us as we stepped off the train, marking the start of a new adventure.
The train ride itself had its moments—unexpected camaraderie with fellow travelers, dashes to snack stalls on platforms, and marveling at the views from the open train doors. Arriving exhausted but excited, we navigated the bustling Agra station and settled into our accommodations at Zostel, ready to explore the city that houses the iconic Taj Mahal.
Events
Delayed Train Adventures
The train, scheduled to arrive in Agra by 6 AM, finally pulled into the station past 3 PM. Despite the delay, the journey offered unique memories:
- Sweetie’s early morning energy filled the train compartment with laughter.
- A last-minute snack run turned into a dramatic dash back to the moving train—thankfully, we made it back safely!
Settling at Zostel
Zostel, a popular chain of budget accommodations, was our home in Agra. With no private rooms available, we settled into a shared four-bed dormitory. It was a first for our family, but the cozy setup worked out surprisingly well.
Planning for the Taj Mahal
During lunch at Zostel’s café—featuring yet another round of chicken curry and fried rice—we learned about an evening boat tour offering views of the Taj Mahal. Intrigued, we quickly booked the tour, eager to catch our first glimpse of the iconic landmark.
Tips for Traveling with a Baby
On the Train
- Prepare for All Temperatures: Indian trains can be chilly due to constant air conditioning, so pack a light jacket or blanket for your little one.
- Keep Snacks Handy: Long delays can mean limited food options. Have enough snacks and water for both parents and baby.
Accommodations
- Zostel’s dormitories might not be an obvious choice for families, but they can be a practical and budget-friendly option. Confirm baby-friendly policies beforehand.
Navigating Train Stations
- Indian train stations can be chaotic. Use a baby carrier to keep your hands free and your child close.
Local Travel Tips
- Beware of Monkeys
- Monkeys roam freely in Agra, even at the train station. Avoid carrying food openly, as they can be aggressive.
- Negotiate Rickshaw Fares
- Like Varanasi, start at half the quoted price and negotiate firmly.
- Exploring the Taj Mahal
- Consider alternative ways to view the Taj, such as the boat tour we discovered. It offers a unique perspective and avoids the heavy crowds at the main entrance.
Travel Reflections in Overnight Train from Varanasi to Agra
The Resilience of Travel
The delays and unexpected challenges on this leg of our journey tested our patience but also gave us a new appreciation for the unpredictability of travel.
Sweetie’s Energy
Traveling with Sweetie often brings its own set of challenges, but her laughter and enthusiasm remind us to find joy in every moment—even during long waits or chaotic train rides.
A Glimpse of the Taj Mahal
Booking the boat tour felt like an impromptu gift to ourselves—a chance to experience one of the world’s wonders in a uniquely serene way. We couldn’t wait to see it up close.
Leave a Reply