Live Your Best Lives
The Taj Mahal is a must-see for many visitors to India. It's considered the most beautiful mausoleum in the world and was even praised by the poet Rabindranath Tagore as "an eternal teardrop." Today, this architectural marvel has become a symbol of India.
The Taj Mahal is best known for its large white dome. This palace-like mausoleum is constructed primarily of pure white marble and inlaid with gemstones from around the world. The Taj Mahal also boasts a perfectly symmetrical architectural aesthetic, combining Indian and Persian architectural styles.
The climate is tropical, with unbearable heat from April to May. The best times to travel are from October to December and from February to March.
1-2 hours
Entrance fee is 750 rupees for foreigners and 40 rupees for locals
5:30-17:00
The Taj Mahal was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who passed away during childbirth in 1631. It is a stunning example of Mughal architecture, combining elements from Persian, Ottoman Turkish, and Indian styles. The Taj Mahal is considered a symbol of eternal love and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Taj Mahal is located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India. It can be reached by taxi or car from nearby cities like Delhi, which is about a 3-4 hour drive away. Agra also has a railway station with direct trains from major cities. The Taj Mahal is within walking distance from the Taj Ganj area, or you can use local transport options like auto-rickshaws or cycle rickshaws.
The Taj Mahal is open every day from 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM, except on Fridays when it is closed for prayers. The best time to visit is early morning at sunrise, when the crowds are smaller and the light is ideal for photography. Evening visits during sunset also offer a breathtaking view of the monument.
The entrance fee for foreign tourists is ₹1,100 for adults. Indian citizens pay ₹50, and children under 15 can enter for free. Tickets can be purchased online via the official website or at the ticket counter near the monument. It's recommended to buy tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons (October to March). Booking online at least a day in advance is a good idea to avoid long queues and ensure smooth entry.
You can fully explore the Taj Mahal in about 2-3 hours, including time to tour the monument, walk around the gardens, and enjoy the views. If you are also visiting the surrounding areas like the mosque and the museum, plan for an additional 1 hour.
Guided tours are available in several languages, including English, Hindi, French, and Spanish. Audio guides are also available and provide a detailed history and information about the monument in various languages. Both can be rented at the entrance.
Start by walking through the main entrance, take some time to admire the reflective pool, then proceed towards the monument itself. Afterward, visit the mosque, the guest house, and explore the surrounding gardens. Finish by visiting the museum near the entrance to learn more about the history of the Taj Mahal.
Night visits are not allowed, but the Taj Mahal is open for a limited time during the full moon (on specific days). Special night tours are available on these days with a limited number of visitors. Check the official website for dates and availability.
The Taj Mahal is one of the most visited monuments in the world and can be quite crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are early in the morning right after opening or during the off-peak months (summer months like June and July).
The Taj Mahal complex has basic facilities including clean toilets, water fountains, rest areas, and several shops selling souvenirs and snacks. There are also a few cafés outside the monument where you can grab a bite to eat.
The Taj Mahal is accessible for elderly and children, but be prepared for uneven surfaces in some areas. There are ramps for easier access to some parts of the complex. However, the monument's stairs may be challenging for disabled visitors.
While cash is accepted, mobile payments (like Google Pay, Paytm) and credit/debit cards are widely accepted at the ticket counter and nearby shops. It is advisable to carry cash for small purchases in the area.
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options are widely available in restaurants around the Taj Mahal, especially in Agra's local eateries and tourist-friendly spots.
Yes, there are several souvenir shops around the Taj Mahal selling local handicrafts, marble replicas of the Taj Mahal, embroidered textiles, and traditional jewelry.
