It's on every postcard and in every tourist brochure, and for once the hype and hyperbole is matched by the reality—the Taj Mahal is simply breathtaking. One of the most interesting ways to visit this palace is to take a day trip from Delhi using the Shatabdi Express, one of India's luxury express trains. You'll be whisked along at 80 m.p.h. in air-conditioned comfort for just $8. An early start in Delhi leads to a two-hour sprint to Agra through the soft Indian dawn, leaving plenty of time to explore the Taj before the dash back to Delhi that evening.

Don't miss the famous Taj.

Trip Facts
Difficulty rating: Easy
When to go: OctoberApril