It is a given that first timers in India would like to see the Taj Mahal. But from what I gathered, it is not that easy because there is a sort of reservation for the Taj Mahal entrance tickets (please correct me if I’m wrong on this notion). Our usual vacation is 4 days and 3 nights although sometimes, depending on the national holidays, we can go as long as 5 nights. Anyway, we can go to India next year on a 3-night vacation. Aside from the Taj Mahal, we also want to see Mumbai and other parts of New Delhi just for a cultural tour. Any suggestion will be appreciated.
My wife had already filed for a 5-day vacation in August which we plan to spend on a tour in Asia. I am including India in the list of choices because have already been to almost all the countries in southeast Asia except Indonesia and Brunei. So instead of next year, the probability is for this August of 2017. It's all right if it's not Taj Mahal but what I have in mind is to feel the culture of India. Thanks for the reply to this thread.
It is a great choice you made about your 5 day trip to this Beautiful country. Taj Mahal for sure should be the number 1 on your list. You can give that one full day so that you can explore a little bit more in Agra. I assume you will be landing in New Delhi. If so, you may explore the city of Delhi after you get some rest on day 1 and 2. Places to see in New Delhi are, The Red Fort, Qutubminar, The India gate, Humayun's Tomb, Chandni Chowk, lotus temple and Iskon temple. According to me, you will be able to cover these beautiful places from the day you arrive and until the next day. On day 2, in the evening you may leave for Agra, and you may spend the entire next day visiting the Taj Mahal and exploring Agra. Day 4 and day 5 you can spend inMumbai, which is also known as "The City that never sleeps". In Mumbai you may visit, The Gateway of India, the newly built Bandra-Worli Sea link, Elephanta Caves, Nariman point (Qeens Necklace) and Chatrapati Shivaji Terminus( Formerly known as Victoria Terminus). It is possible to tour Bombay, which is now known as Mumbai in one day.
@pravish has given you useful suggestions. I would add one more and that is a visit to the Pallika Bazar, Delhi which is an underground bazar which has over 350 shops mostly clothing and electronics. It has 8 gates. You need to remember the number of the gate so that you get out from the same gate.