taj mahal visit tips

15 Crucial Tips for Visiting the Taj Mahal in 2024 (+ Photography)

Being one of the seven wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal is, without a doubt, one of the most famous landmark s in India ! For most of us, visiting this mausoleum is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so it’s important to plan your visit well. That’s exactly where these 15 tips for visiting the Taj Mahal will come in handy!

The majestic Taj Mahal was built at the demand of Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. She passed away in 1631 after giving birth to their 14th child. It took 16 years to build the mausoleum and the legend says that the hands of the workers who built the Taj Mahal were cut off so that they could never build something like it again.

I was actually hesitant to visit the Taj Mahal when I was in India. Even though it does look astonishing, I was scared that I would end up being disappointed because it’s so touristy. This wonder of the world is part of India’s famous Golden Triangle Route, after all. It actually wasn’t too busy, though!

Although there were quite some crowds when I was there, the early morning was surprisingly quiet. On top of that, the Taj Mahal’s grounds are so big that it was possible to find quiet places, even after the bigger crowds arrived.

But without further ado, here are my best tips for visiting the beautiful Taj Mahal! I hope these will help you make the most out of your visit to this stunning wonder of the world.

>> Read: What is India Famous For? 28 Interesting Facts

15 useful tips for visiting the Taj Mahal

In this section, you will find important things to consider when planning your visit to the Taj Mahal. These will help you plan your visit so that you can enjoy your trip to the fullest. You will also find some useful photography tips later in this post.

But without further ado, here are my 15 best tips for visiting the beautiful Taj Mahal.

1. Don’t visit the Taj Mahal on a Friday

Simply put: this wonder of the world is closed on Fridays . So make sure to keep this in mind when you’re planning your trip to India and the Taj Mahal.

Prior to my visit, I read that the best day to visit the Taj Mahal is on a Monday because that’s when it’s the least crowded. I don’t know if this is true but I visited it on a Monday morning and, surprisingly, it wasn’t crowded at all for the first 2 hours (5:30 am to 7:30 am)!

This could also still be due to a certain virus, however, as I visited the Taj Mahal in July 2022 and the big majority of tourists were Indians.

2. Buy a ticket in advance

You really don’t want to get up even earlier to be the first in line at the ticket office when it’s so easy to buy a ticket online in advance. This will definitely save you some valuable time, as people already start lining up at the ticket office before the Taj Mahal opens.

There are two types of tickets . One to visit the Taj Mahal in the morning and one to visit it in the afternoon. I would recommend visiting the Taj Mahal for sunrise, as (on a beautiful day) the light is truly spectacular then.

It’s good to know that a ticket costs 1100 INR for foreigners , 540 INR for citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries and 50 INR for Indian citizens . There’s also an additional fee of 200 INR if you want to enter the mausoleum . The price for the mausoleum is the same for all nationalities.

3. Arrive before sunrise

When it comes to visiting the Taj Mahal, arriving before sunrise is one of the best tips I can give!

The Taj Mahal opens 30 minutes before sunrise, so it’s good to be there early. The timings are different according to the season but I arrived around 5:15 am in July and I wasn’t the first to be there!

The earlier you come, the greater your chances are of seeing the Taj Mahal without too many crowds. Do expect it to be quite crowded when you enter, though. This is because many people make a photo stop right behind the entrance gate.

In my experience, the spot at the entrance was the most crowded place. When you walk a bit further, there should be fewer crowds. On top of that, you will have a better view of the Taj Mahal.

I left the Taj Mahal around 8:30 or 9 am and it was getting pretty crowded (and super hot) around that time. This is another reason why you will have a more pleasant experience if you go as early as possible.

4. Dress appropriately

There’s no specific Taj Mahal dress code but as a general rule, both men and women are expected to cover their shoulders and knees . India is a conservative country and it’s important to be respectful of the local culture.

The Taj Mahal or India in general are not the right places for hot pants and spaghetti tops. This is more accepted in cities like Bombay , however, but this is not the norm in Agra and most of the country.

You will already stand out and get a lot of attention as a foreigner (this includes posing in numerous selfies). So it’s important to dress appropriately.

It’s also good to know that you can wear shoes at the Taj Mahal. However, you will get shoe covers to visit the interior of the mausoleum.

>> Read next: – What to Wear in India: 5 Tips + Outfit Ideas – What to Pack for India as a Woman

5. Know what you can’t bring

One of my most important tips for visiting the Taj Mahal is to know what you cannot bring.

The rules at the Taj Mahal are quite strict. This is one of the seven wonders of the world, after all. So, before your visit, it’s important to know what you can and cannot bring inside.

I don’t think they will keep your stuff safe for you, and the Taj Mahal is one of these places to visit once in a lifetime so it would be a pity not to be let in.

The list of prohibited items includes some predictable things like arms, ammunition and knives but also more surprising ones like food , cigarettes and tobacco , headphones , tripods , mobile chargers , etc.

You can check out the full list on the official website of the Taj Mahal .

6. Beware of the “guides “

The Taj Mahal is infamous for its fake guides roaming around the entrance of the complex. Don’t be fooled, as these “guides” also have fake identity cards saying they are recognized government guides.

These fake guides’ English is limited, though, and they’re notorious for offering incorrect information. On top of that, they won’t state a price beforehand, which can lead to unwelcome surprises after the tour.

As the Taj Mahal’s history is interesting, you may want to get a government guide. If so, make sure to arrange it through a registered tour company or your hotel before your visit.

7. Explore the other buildings

There are two other buildings on the grounds of the Taj Mahal. You will find the mosque on the West side and the guest house ( Mehmaan Khana ) on the East side. Both of these buildings are constructed of red sandstone.

It’s interesting to note that the mosque was built because, according to Muslim law, every mausoleum should be accompanied by a mosque. The guest house, on the other hand, was built to accommodate the guests visiting the tomb of Mumtaz Mahal.

There’s a huge square in front of both of these buildings, and the view of the Taj Mahal is spectacular from here . On top of that, it’s not so crowded here, so it’s the perfect place to snap some pictures!

>> Read: 19 Reasons to Visit India this Year

8. Visit the museum too

There’s a photo gallery and museum on the left side of the entrance of the Taj Mahal. Make sure to visit it if you’re a history buff or if you would like to learn more about the Taj Mahal and the Mughal era.

The museum opens at 10 am and you can visit it using your entry ticket for the Taj Mahal. You will find three galleries here. One that’s dedicated to calligraphic art and household items that were used during the Mughal era, another one that’s full of paintings of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal and a third one that includes manuscripts, drawings and documents related to the Taj Mahal and Mughal era .

9. Don’t stay in Agra for longer than a day

Unless you have enough time and want to stay, of course! I stayed in Agra for a couple of days because I work online, and it’s my least favourite city in India so far.

Apart from the Taj Mahal, the Red Fort , the baby Taj Mahal (Itmad-ud-Daula) and Metabh Bagh , there’s not so much to see or do here.

On top of that, vendors in Agra are pushier than anywhere else in India (which says a lot and is pretty exhausting).

Taj Mahal photography tips

Whether you’re an avid photographer or not, the Taj Mahal is a place where you can take some wonderful Indian shots. The tips in this post will help you take great pictures of this beautiful wonder of the world.

Here are my best photography tips for when you’re visiting the Taj Mahal.

10. Take advantage of the golden hour

Start taking pictures as soon as you enter the Taj Mahal, as it’s only going to get more crowded and the so-called golden hour is when the light is at its best.

Like most people, after entering, I took plenty of shots of the front of the Taj Mahal. When you walk a little further, however, you will even have a better view with fewer crowds.

Although the golden hour is the most spectacular time of the day, the Taj Mahal looks beautiful at any moment, so it’s definitely worth heading back to certain places to take pictures in a different light.

11. Take shots of the details too

Don’t forget to take pictures up close too as the Taj Mahal is full of beautiful details!

When you look a little closer, you will see that the Taj Mahal is decorated with Mughal art. You will find floral motives as well as abstract forms all over the mausoleum.

But the Taj Mahal is not the only place in the complex with beautiful details. Make sure to keep your eyes open as you walk around, as the entire place boasts plenty of jaw-dropping details.

12. Get creative

With its perfect symmetry, the Taj Mahal is a great place to play with reflections , take shots from different angles , move around and get creative.

There are plenty of water ponds that make for good photo opportunities for reflections. On top of that, the photography “guides” (see #13 in this list) also make the floor wet to create beautiful reflections in some places.

13. Get a photography “guide”

By “photography guide”, I don’t mean one of the photographers that are roaming around the Taj Mahal. I mean one of the caretakers that offer to show you the best photo spots.

This is not advice I would usually give, but when it comes to the Taj Mahal, the light is truly the most beautiful during the golden hour, so you really want to take advantage of that.

The photography “guides” know exactly where the best spots are to take pictures, and they will bring you there in no time. If you’re travelling in India alone , they can take some snaps of you as well as tripods are not allowed .

I hired one of these “guides” to show me the best photo spots, took some pictures and then went back there by myself but by then, the light wasn’t as spectacular anymore.

According to an Indian friend, giving your guide 20 INR is enough. I gave mine 40 INR, however, and he was satisfied.

14. Know that you can’t take pictures inside the Taj Mahal

You won’t want to take any either, to be honest. The exterior of the Taj Mahal is spectacular, but the room with cenotaphs (empty graves) of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, which is inside the mausoleum, is quite sober.

It’s interesting to note that while Mumtaz Mahal’s cenotaph was placed in the middle of the room, Shah Jahan’s cenotaph was placed off-centre. This is the only thing that is not symmetrical in the entire Taj Mahal complex! Because of this, it’s widely believed that Shah Jahan’s cenotaph wasn’t part of the original Taj Mahal plan, which was completely symmetrical.

15. Be patient

When it comes to taking pictures (and with many other things in life), patience really pays off.

Even if you come early, you won’t be the only person visiting the Taj Mahal and you will have to stand in line to take pictures in certain places.

You can’t tell when you see the picture below, but when I asked someone to take it, I wasn’t the only one who wanted their picture taken in that spot and I had to wait for my turn.

The same goes if you want pictures without too many people standing in them: patience really does pay off! So take your time and be prepared to wait to take the perfect shot.

Tips for visiting the Taj Mahal: FAQs

How much time do you need at the taj mahal.

It all depends on you, but I would allow at least 2 hours to visit the Taj Mahal complex. I took a lot of pictures and stayed for about 3,5 hours. Note that the place starts getting quite crowded around 8 or 9 am, so come as early as possible if you want to avoid crowds.

What should I wear to visit the Taj Mahal?

Although there’s no specific Taj Mahal dress code, both men and women are expected to cover their shoulders and knees. India is a conservative country and it’s important to respect the local culture.

How much does it cost to visit the Taj Mahal?

A visit to the Taj Mahal costs 1300 INR for foreigners, 740 INR for citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries and 250 INR for Indians. This includes 200 INR to enter the mausoleum (which is optional).

Best time to visit the Taj Mahal

The best time to visit the Taj Mahal is during Winter, between October and March . This is when the weather is at its best in this part of India. Do note that this is also the time of the year when you will encounter the most crowds, as this is the high season.

If you’re visiting the Taj Mahal during the Summer (April to June), it will be boiling hot with temperatures reaching over 45°C.

I visited the Taj Mahal in July, which is during the monsoon season (July to September). Although it was still very, very hot and humid, it didn’t rain during the three days I stayed in Agra.

When it comes to the time of the day, make sure to arrive before sunrise . Watching the sunrise at the Taj Mahal is a wonderful experience and this is also the least crowded time of the day.

I don’t know if this is true, but I read that Mondays are the best day to avoid crowds. It may have been luck and it’s impossible to know how crowded the place will be when you’re there, but when I visited the Taj Mahal early in the morning on a Monday in July, it was surprisingly quiet.

This is what it looked like around 8:30 am, though:

Visiting the Taj Mahal during full moon nights

If you’re visiting the Taj Mahal around the full moon, you can opt to visit it at night for a unique experience.

Night viewing of the Taj Mahal is possible five times a month. This is during the two nights before the full moon, during the full moon and during the two nights after the full moon.

Tickets for night viewing are available one day before and it works with 30-minute batches of groups of a maximum of 50 people.

How to get to the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is located in Agra, in the North of India. This city is about 230 km (142 mi) from New Delhi , the country’s capital. The nearest airport is the Indira Gandhi International Airport of Delhi.

From Delhi, you can reach Agra by:

• Train : This is how I went to Agra, it’s a 4 to 5-hour journey by train from New Delhi. Make sure to book your train tickets in advance , though, as seats tend to fill up quickly in this part of India.
• Private car: If you’re willing to spend more money, you can also get from New Delhi to Agra by taking a private car.
• Renting a car: Another way to reach Agra is by renting a car and driving there yourself. Make sure that you’re confident enough to drive in India, though, if this is the option you’re going for.
• Taking a tour: There are tours from Delhi that go to the Taj Mahal too, this is probably the easiest way to get there.

I recommend booking a hotel that’s within walking distance of the Taj Mahal. This way, you won’t need to hire a rickshaw to get there.

If you’re not staying within walking distance of the Taj Mahal, I highly recommend using the Ola app to book a rickshaw. It works just like Uber and this way, you will get a fair price immediately and won’t need to haggle, as rickshaw drivers tend to ask 10 times the local price to foreigners.

>> Read: South India VS North India: 9 Differences

Tips for visiting the Taj Mahal: Final thoughts

I was hesitant to visit the Taj Mahal when I was in India, as I was afraid that it would be too touristy and that I’d end up being disappointed.

However, my visit to this place ended up being a wonderful experience! The Taj Mahal is a truly beautiful and photogenic place that is definitely worth visiting during a trip to India.

I hope these tips for visiting the Taj Mahal will help you plan your visit to this spectacular wonder of the world.

Are you visiting the Taj Mahal as a part of the Golden Triangle (which includes Delhi, Agra and Jaipur)? Check out my itinerary for the Golden Triangle of India next!

Have you visited the Taj Mahal already? How was your experience? Let me know in the comments!

Read more about India:

• The Ultimate India Travel Bucket List: 34 Ideas
• Souvenirs from India That Don’t Suck
• The Cost of Travel in India
• How to AVOID Getting Sick in India

India travel planning guide

🛫 Find the cheapest flights to India on  Skyscanner . 🏨 Find the best accommodation via  Booking  or  Agoda . 🛺 Download the  Ola app  to order a rickshaw. 🚃 Use  12GoAsia  to book trains and buses in India. 💰 Get travel insurance via  Visitors Coverage , one of the best-reviewed travel insurance companies. 👘 Check out my  complete India packing list for females . 📋 Don’t forget to  check if you need a visa   to visit India.

Pin it for later: Did you enjoy these tips for visiting the Taj Mahal? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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Such a good tips! I wish I had read this before actually visiting Taj Mahal… It was so crowded that it was impossible to enjoy haha. Thanks for sharing great tips!

Hi Elisa! Thank you for reading, I’m glad they’re helpful! 🙂 Ahh too bad it was so crowded during your visit, I guess I was very lucky!

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24 Best Tips for Visiting the Taj Mahal

Home » Blog » Budget Travel » Backpacking Destinations » 24 Best Tips for Visiting the Taj Mahal

If you’re traveling to India and have a stop at the Taj Mahal on your itinerary, there are a few things you should know before your visit. We’ve rounded up 24 top tips we wish we would have known, including what time of day is best to visit and creative Taj Mahal photography tips. We’ve also put together a complete travel guide to Agra and answer all your Taj Mahal questions.

Visiting the Taj Mahal in Agra is likely on your itinerary if you’re traveling to India for the first time. And it should be! Situated on the Yamuna River, this incredible architectural feat is one of the Seven New Wonders of the World for a reason. 

Often times, we’re not super enthusiastic about big tourist attractions. We thought we might be disappointed by visiting the Taj Mahal, but we were actually quite impressed.

Many people claim the building itself is smaller than they expected. And while that may be true, to us the grandeur wasn’t in the size, but in the Taj Mahal’s exquisite marble detail. 

While the Taj Mahal is a crowded attraction, many of the visitors are Indians traveling within their own country. You’ll have the opportunity to get to mingle with friendly Indian families, which may just be a highlight of your visit.

While we truly enjoyed our visit to the Taj Mahal, there are a few things we wish we would have known before arriving in Agra. 

We’re sharing our best tips and tricks to make your first visit to the Taj Mahal unforgettable.  Plus, at the bottom of this article, we’re sharing some other fun things to do in Agra, including one incredibly inspiring non-profit that we think every traveler in Agra should visit.

Taj Mahal Article Contents

Top Tips for Visiting the Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal Photography Tips

FAQs about the Taj Mahal

What to do in Agra besides the Taj Mahal

Where to Stay in Agra

Pin this for later.

Top Tips to know Before You Visit the Taj Mahal

There is so much we wish we would have known before visiting the Taj Mahal. These tips will let you in on our top tips with everything you need to know before your visit. We hope this helps make your experience as memorable as possible.

1. Arrive early to the ticket booth

Our advice is to visit the Taj Mahal first thing in the morning. There will be fewer crowds, nice lighting and you’ll avoid the midday heat (that actually starts around 9 a.m.).

Arrive to the ticket booth as early as possible. We arrived at 5:45 a.m. (15 minutes before the ticket booth opened_, and there was already a decently long queue. If we were to do it again, we would try to arrive at 5:15 a.m. The building is called Shilp Gram U.P. Tourism ). When we exited just after 6:15 a.m. the line was wrapping outside the door.

Even though the ticket booth is 1 km from entrance of the Taj, it’s not a bad walk. But there are plenty of rickshaw drivers you can hire if you don’t want to make it on foot. 

Keep in mind: Don’t expect a colorful sunrise in solitude. The sunrise isn’t actually behind the Taj Mahal; plus, the gates don’t open until the sun has actually risen. That said, the morning lighting is lovely. And even though you’re waking up early and beating the majority of crowds, you certainly won’t find yourself alone – there are crowds all throughout the day, even right when the gates open. As long as your expectations are realistic, you won’t regret waking up early.

2. Choose your gate wisely 

There are 3 entrance gates to the Taj Mahal. Be sure you read up on each so you know which is the smartest option for you. 

The East Gate was closest to our hostel, and while it was crowded, we didn’t find ourselves waiting too long before we were able to enter. This was most convenient for us.

The West Gate is further from most of the hotels, and this is the most crowded gate during the day. However, we’ve read that it is a bit less crowded at sunrise than the East Gate. So depending on where you’re staying, this might be a good option.

Avoid the South Gate if possible (unless solely to people watch). It’s located near a dodgy market and the touts selling souvenirs are pushy. Plus, this gate doesn’t open until 8 a.m., so if you want to make it for sunrise, you can cross this gate off your list.

More info on the Taj Mahal entrance gates .

3. Buy your ticket with exact change

Even though we arrived first thing in the morning, the men at the ticket counter were giving people a hassle for not having exact change. Price of Taj Mahal entrance: 1,000 rupees per person (recently increased from 750 rupees). A foreigner ticket should come with a bottle of water, shoe covers and a tourist map of Agra. 

4. Wear bug spray

Mosquitos are still out at dawn (when we visited in March) and we were swarmed while waiting in line to enter the Taj Mahal.

Travel Tip: We love traveling with this all-natural bug balm . It is a solid stick, so it won’t leak or count toward your TSA liquid limit.

5. Be prepared to separate from your travel partner

At the east gate entrance, there is a line for men and women. As it usually is with bathroom lines, the women’s queue takes longer. If you’re traveling with the opposite sex, be sure you are prepared to separate and find a meeting place on the other side of the checkpoint because it get crowded fast.

If you’re visiting the Taj Mahal with kids , this entrance gets really crowded, so make sure to keep you little ones close so they don’t get lost in the chaos. 

6. Dress appropriately

The dress code is not enforced at the Taj Mahal. We saw some women wearing strappy dresses and tank tops.

Even though there’s no code enforced, we would recommend dressing modestly. The general rule of thumb in India for ladies is to cover your shoulders and everything below your knees. Wear light and loose clothing, as it can get incredibly hot, especially when shade is scarce and the sun is reflecting on the marble and concrete structures around you. 

7. Know what you can’t bring inside

Bags must be scanned, so after being frisked you must get in yet another queue if you have a backpack or purse. 

There is a long list of items you cannot bring inside the Taj Mahal, including food, headphones and tripods. Read up on banned items on the official website . We had a deck of cards, a headlamp and the tripod section of our GoPro extendable arm taken. And we saw a girl’s pack of gum get confiscated. Be very selective when packing your bag!

We had to go back out of the gate, directed to a little nearby shop which had “lockers”. This shop will hold your belongings, but will pressure you to buy something when you come back to pick it up.

The things in these shops are overpriced knockoffs, so we didn’t want any. Cut to the chase, tell them you’re not interested, and give them 100 rupees for holding your stuff.

8. Don’t get a guide

Typically we would encourage hiring a guide, as it creates a job for a local. However, the Taj Mahal is notorious for people posing as guides . We’ve read there are only 50-60 official guides at the Taj Mahal, yet more than 3,000 touts offer their services to tourists, posing as guides and photographers. 

9. Download this app

Sometime audio guides are hit or miss, but we really liked the Taj Mahal CaptivaTour audio guide. It was easy to listen to and was a good way to learn some history and important information while exploring the Taj Mahal.

You could hire a tour guide (which provides a local with a job), but honestly it is kind of a crowded mess just inside the gates, and you won’t know how good of a guide you’re hiring (see #8). Plus, if you opt for an audio guide, you can explore at your own pace.

Tip: After the app is downloaded, you must open it and download the audio files. Do this the night before when you’re in WiFi so you’re prepared!

10. Make friends

One of the highlights of our time visiting the Taj Mahal was meeting very friendly Indian families. If you look like a foreigner, you will likely be asked to be in many family pictures. Sometimes it can get a little overwhelming when you are trying to take photos or get out before it becomes too crowded. However, if you have a good attitude and a smile, you will have a much better experience.

11. Be flexible if you’re visiting the Taj Mahal with kids

Traveling with children can be an incredibly special experience for everyone in your family. But it might mean you will need to travel a little differently and make a few adjustments. This article describes what you need to know if you’re visiting the Taj Mahal with kids . 

12. After the Taj, stop here

If you need a pick-me-up after your visit to the Taj Mahal, you won’t have to go far. Right outside the east gate is Cafe Coffee Day (an Indian chain) which is air-conditioned, has a clean-ish bathroom, and serves good coffee (albeit a bit pricy: 110 rupees for an Americano with tax). It’s a good place to escape the heat and regain your energy.

Feeling inspired and want more? Here are some of our favorite non-cliche travel quotes to fuel your wanderlust.

Whether you’re a professional photographer or a novice with an iPhone, you will be mesmerized by the Taj Mahal. From the typical shots everyone seems to take to the more obscure, the Taj Mahal is a photographer’s dream. Here are some tips for getting the best photographs of this iconic piece of architecture.

13. Be prepared

Have the correct equipment packed* and have a few angles in mind from which you’d like to take photographs. Once you’re inside the premises of the Taj Mahal, you may be overwhelmed by the crowds, so you’ll be much more at ease if you have a plan.

*Remember, tripods are banned in the premises of the Taj Mahal, so you can’t bring them inside. 

Travel Photography Tip: pack your camera essentials the night before so you don’t forget anything when you wake up before the sun and are in a rush!

14. Wear bright colors

This tip is just for fun, but if you want to take a cool picture of yourself in front of the Taj Mahal, bright colors look especially pretty against the white marble. You’ll see Indian women and foreigners wearing brightly colored saris. While I didn’t go that far, I was happy I bought a pretty scarf because it made my photos “pop”!

15. Get creative

If you want to get some awe-inspiring photographs of the Taj Mahal, you’re going to have to get creative. Check out this comprehensive article on Creative Travel Photography Tips to give you inspiration!

16. Get out of the crowds ASAP

Immediately when you enter the Taj Mahal, everyone seems to stop and take pictures. We fell into this trap and all our shots had tons of other people in them. (See photo above!)

Tip: If you want to get a photo near the entrance, do it as you’re leaving because this area is always crowded.

Instead of stopping at the entrance, keep walking because there is a much better view of the Taj Mahal and you’ll get past the huge crowds (especially if you arrive in the morning).

Walk until you see the first pool. This is where you should stop and take the “typical” Taj shot. (see photo below!)

17. Get up close!

Don’t just take photos from the pools… The detail shots are where it’s at!

The thing that makes the Taj Mahal so beautiful is the details of marble carving. Don’t forget to take some photographs up close.

18. East side (right side) has nice lighting in the morning

On the east side of the structure, there is almost a glow in the early morning hours. 

If you think about it, the sun rises in the east so the light in the morning will be coming from that way. Make sure you’re taking that into account when you are trying to figure out shadows and lens flares.

19. West side (left side) can create interesting framing 

On the west side of the Taj there is a mosque (to be more specific a mihrab which faces east toward Mecca) with prayer mats tiled in the ground. From within you can get some interesting pictures of the Taj as long as you are patient enough for people to move. 

20. View the Taj Mahal from across the river at Moonlight Garden

If you have time, take a tuk tuk across the river to the Mehtab Bagh (which translated is “The Moonlight Garden”). Entrance is 200 rupees and could be worth it if you want a shot of the Taj Mahal without any one in it. 

Tip: If you don’t want to pay the entrance fee, just next to the Moonlight Garden there is a road with a pretty decent view of the Taj Mahal too. Our rickshaw driver knew where it was and happily took us there so we didn’t have to pay an entrance fee.

21. Be patient

Everyone wants the same shots, so take a deep breath and wait for the right moment. Patience will keep you from feeling overwhelmed and is the key to taking great pictures in crowded places.

22. Get a nice photo of yourself

It’s easy to take all sorts of pictures and forget to get one of yourself. If you are traveling with a companion, it’s easy to exchange photos of each other.

But if you want a shot together or you’re traveling solo here’s a tip:

If you want a photo of yourself, find someone with a nice camera (they’ll most likely take better pictures than someone using a cell phone) and ask if they’d like their picture taken. Take the shot with the same composition as you’d like yours and show them what it looks like. Then ask if they’ll take one of you in return.

23. Consider a Full Moon Tour at the Taj Mahal

Since the Taj was constructed with such pristine translucent marble, when you are inside you can actually see the moonlight glow through the marble. It is said to be spectacular. For a few days before and after each full moon, the Taj Mahal is open for night tours but be sure to book ahead because they only let in a certain amount of people each night. It typically cost 750 rupees ($11.50 USD) for the moonlight tour. 

24. Get some non-traditional pictures

Think outside the box: You can get some wonderful shots of the Taj Mahal without even being on the premises. One popular shot is across the river from the Taj at Moonlight Gardens (see #19).

Some hotels have epic views , and one of our favorite viewpoints was while enjoying beer at a rooftop restaurant! 

And don’t forget to explore the other buildings on the grounds. While they may not be as well known, they are still gorgeous (see photo above!).

Frequently Asked Questions about the Taj Mahal

Below you’ll find the answers to the most commonly asked question about visiting the Taj Mahal.

What is the best time of year to visit the Taj Mahal?

The best time to visit the state of Uttar Pradesh, in which the Taj Mahal is located, is typically said to be October to March. This season has the most comfortable temperatures, ranging from 10° – 30°C (50° – 86°F).

October – March: The most comfortable temperature, but also the most crowds.

April – June: Can get incredibly hot, with temperatures peaking at 45°C (113°F).

July – September: Monsoon season, so try your best to avoid visit. If you do, bring an unbrella.

When does the Taj Mahal open and close?

The Taj Mahal is open every day except Fridays, when it is closed for prayer.

Hours: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Special Moonlight Viewings: 2 days before and after each full moon. You must buy tickets for the moonlight viewing in advance, and they do sell out during peak tourist season. This website has more information on Moonlight Viewings.

Night time tickets cost 750 rupees for foreigners and 510 rupees for Indian nationals, for half an hour’s admittance. These tickets must be purchased between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., one day in advance from the Archaeological Survey of India office on Mall Road.

See more details here , including night viewing dates.

When is the best time of day to visit the Taj Mahal?

The best time to visit the Taj Mahal is as soon as the gates open! As we mentioned in Tip #1, sunrise is the time of day where you’ll find the fewest crowds. Plus, the lighting is nicer than at midday and you’ll avoid the extreme heat.

How much time do I need at the Taj Mahal?

If you’re into photography or want to relax a bit and people watch, allow about 3 hours to visit the Taj Mahal. Otherwise, you could probably snap a few shots, walk around the building and inside and feel like you’ve seen everything in 1.5 hours.

How long did we spend at the Taj Mahal?

We walked through the entrance around 6:40 a.m. and left at 9:30 a.m. By this time, the crowds were thick and we were happy to be leaving.

How much does entry to the Taj Mahal cost?

Foreigners: 1,000 rupees ($15.40 USD) (recently increased from 750 rupees)*

India nationals: 40 rupees

Children 14 and under: Free!

*Included in the price of a foreigner ticket is a bottle of water, shoe covers and a tourist map of Agra. Plus, there are shuttles you can take from the ticket booth to the entrance if you’d like (we skipped this, as waiting for a ride would have taken us longer than walking the 1 km).

Which gate is best to enter the Taj Mahal?

There are 3 entry gates to the Taj Mahal: South, East and West. We found the East Gate to be most convenient for us; but choose the one that sounds best to you based on the descriptions below:

The East Gate: This gate is nearby some of the more popular hotels, so you’ll see many foreigners entering here. For us, this gate was the most convenient, and since we arrived early, we didn’t wait in line very long.

The West Gate: This is the most crowded gate throughout the day, as it receives roughly 60-70% of visitors. This gate is primarily used by Indian visitors, and while lines are very long throughout the day, you may find shorter lines right away in the morning.

The South Gate: Located by a somewhat dodgy market with pushy touts selling overpriced souvenirs, the South Gate entrance receives the fewest number of visitors. It doesn’t open until 8 a.m., so if you want to arrive at sunrise, you can count this gate out.

What to wear at the Taj Mahal?

There is no dress code enforced at the Taj Mahal, but while traveling in India, we would always recommend dressing modestly. Ladies, it’s usually a good idea to wear something that covers your shoulders and knees.

Are there guided tours of the Taj Mahal?

If you’re traveling solo and want some company, or you simply don’t feel like organizing this visit on your own, we’d recommend booking a tour with our partner company Get Your Guide . This top-rated Taj Mahal Tour has a whole day planned out leaving from and returning to Delhi.

Many tour companies offer a “Golden Triangle” tour , which stops in New Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. These cities are all located in northern India and are roughly the same distance apart — approximately 200-500 kilometers (125-155 miles).

What’s the best way to get to Agra and the Taj Mahal?

The Taj Mahal is located in the city of Agra, which is easily accessible in a day trip from Delhi. The train system from Delhi to Agra is good and there are about 117 trains weekly. The journey from New Delhi Station (NDLS) to Agra Cantt (AGC) is about 3 to 4 hours depending on the train you take.

From the train station you can take a tuk tuk to the Taj Mahal for about 150 rupees ($2.30 USD).

If you want to drive from Delhi to Agra, the Yamuna Expressway linking links the two cities and takes about 3 hours to drive. There are tolls on the expressway however. A one-way trip costs 415 rupees and a round trip costs 655 rupees.

Again, there are reasonably priced tours that leave from Delhi and take you around to the major spots in Agra for an all-day tour where everything is arranged for you.  

What is the nearest international airport to the Taj Mahal?

The closest airport to the Taj Mahal is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi (DEL). Delhi International is a major hub in the region and you can typically get pretty cheap airline tickets .

How to get around Agra?

Many people hire a rickshaw driver for the day, which is a great way to see all the sights listed above. We went to the Taj Mahal on our own (since we wanted to spend a few hours there and didn’t want a driver to be waiting).

Our driver picked us up at our hotel at 10 a.m., and brought us to Agra Fort, the Baby Taj and the Mehtab Bagh Gardens. We paid 900 rupees ($13.90 USD) for all day transportation. 

Agra Auto Rickshaw Service

There is one thing you should be aware of when you hire a rickshaw driver in Agra:  They will most likely end your day tour by driving you to several shops which they claim have great products and prices (not exactly true!).

If you purchase something, the driver will get commission. We were taken to a gem shop, a carpet factory, a sari store and a marble inlay workshop. With the exception of the marble shop (which was quite interesting to see the process of how the Taj Mahal was built), we found these stops to be a complete waste of time.

We told our driver we were not interested, but he insisted in bringing us. Next time, we would be up front with the driver right away and tell them we will not be buying anything and would like to skip these stops. 

How long should I spend in Agra?

We would recommend staying 1 – 2 nights. This will give you one full day to see the Taj Mahal and explore a few other things that this city has to offer.

Itinerary for Visiting Agra and the Taj Mahal

This is the itinerary we followed:

Day 1: Arrive in Agra

3 p.m. Arrive from New Delhi by train

3:30 p.m. Check into hotel and freshen up

5 p.m. Enjoy a beer at a rooftop bar with a view of the Taj Mahal

6:30 p.m. Dinner

8 p.m. Back to hotel for an early night (tomorrow’s wake up call is early!). Be sure to pack a bag with any items you’ll need.

Day 2: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Baby Taj  

4:45 a.m. Wake up, get dressed and head to the ticket booth

5:15 – 5:30 a.m. Arrive at Shilp Gram U.P. Tourism Ticket Booth (East side) and wait in queue

6 a.m. Ticket booth opens up. Don’t forget your water bottle and shoe covers.

6:15 a.m. Head to the East Gate of the Taj Mahal. Enter and explore the Taj. Make sure to see all angles of it.

10 a.m. Once you had enough (or you get sick of the crowds), meet your rickshaw driver back at your hotel

10:30 a.m. Have an early lunch at Shero’s Hangout Cafe (you’ll already be hungry because you woke up so early!)

11:00 a.m. Visit Agra Fort with the free CaptivaTour audio guide.

12:15 p.m. Visit the Baby Taj

1:00 p.m. Visit the Mehtab Bagh Gardens

1:30 p.m. (The day starts getting really hot) Choose either to head back to your hotel to avoid the heat, or have your tuk tuk driver take you to a marble inlay shop (but not any of the other shops, in our opinion)

After 2 p.m. Relax at a pool or take a nap.

5:00 p.m. Get ready for dinner and enjoy your meal on a rooftop as you watch the sun set over the Taj Mahal

Day 3: Relax and Travel Out

8 a.m. Leisurely breakfast

10 a.m. Catch transportation out of Agra to your next destination!

*Note: If you only stay one night, you could leave late in the afternoon of Day 2.

What is there to do in Agra besides the Taj Mahal?

Some people simply stop in Agra on a day trip to see the Taj Mahal and do little else. While it certainly wasn’t our favorite city in India (aka very touristy and polluted), we are so glad we did some exploring.

There are some interesting things to see in Agra other than the Taj Mahal for visiting this city: 

1. Agra Red Fort

Only 3 km away from the Taj Mahal, the Agra Fort is worth visiting after you have seen the Taj in the morning. The entire exterior of the fortress is made of red sandstone and many rooms are highly decorated with marble inlays.

We spent about an hour and half walking around the fort while listening to a free audio guide from CaptivaTour , which did a good job explaining the fort, keeping it light and funny, but not going into too many boring details. 

Agra Fort Admission: 300 rupees. Open daily 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

2. “Baby Taj Mahal” – Tomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah

Another short drive across the Yamuna River lays the Tomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah, sometime called the “Jewel Box” or the “Baby Taj”. It is not as massive as the Taj Mahal, but the detail of the marble inlays are remarkable and worth the visit inside. We spent about 30 minutes walking around and taking pictures of the Baby Taj. 

Quick history lesson: The “Baby Taj” is the tomb of Mizra Ghiyas Beg whose granddaughter, Mumtaz Mahal, was the woman for whom the Taj Mahal was built.

Baby Taj Mahal Admission: 210 rupees. Open sunrise to sunset.

3. Mehtab Bagh Gardens – Riverside View of the Taj Mahal

Don’t miss the backside of the Taj Mahal, it is one of the best views and there will be less people photo bombing your shot. Enjoy the beautiful gardens that perfectly frame the Taj Mahal. 

Mehtab Bagh Garden Admission: 200 rupees. Open sunrise to sunset.

Lesser known things to do in Agra

We discovered a few fun things to do in Agra that not many tourists traveling through take advantage of! Here’s a list of our favorites:

4. Have lunch at Sheroes Hangout 

If you do one thing other than the Taj while in Agra, make it lunch at Sheroes Hangout . Other than the Taj Mahal, this was the highlight of our time in Agra.

This non-profit cafe supports and is run by women who were victims of acid attacks (which is sadly not uncommon in India).

Watch their short, but powerful, documentary. They serve delicious local food and there are no prices. You simply pay what you wish, but we hope you give generously to these strong Sheroes.

5. Have dinner (and a drink!) at a rooftop restaurant with a great view

There are plenty of roof top restaurants in Agra, but the one we liked the best was Hotel Saniya. The prices were pretty affordable and the sunset view of the Taj was great. Plus, they served beer, which isn’t always possible to find in the “dry” state of Uttar Pradesh.

Tip: Kingfisher Strong has 8% alcohol, so you might only need one! Drink carefully!

6. Escape the heat and relax poolside 

Escape the heat and head to a roof top pool in Agra. It is the perfect way to relax after touring the Taj and Agra Fort in the morning, or to escape the midday heat.

Book a hotel with a pool or walk into one with a pool and ask if you can pay a fee to use their facility.

Agra is a town with many tourists, so there are plenty of hotels to choose from. Here are some recommendations:

Celebrity-status Hotel in Agra

The Oberoi Amarvilas Agra – Beyond luxury, this 5-star hotel is unbelievable! Spas, pools, restaurants and marble everything! However one night at this place, cost more than our whole 1-month trip to India for two people (I just put the link here because you should check out how crazy-over-the-top-gorgeous it is! We could never afford this, but it’s nice to dream!)

Luxurious Accommodation in Agra

Hotel Radisson Blu Agra Taj East Gate – Just a mile from the East Gate of the Taj Mahal, this 5-star hotel has everything you need and is extremely affordable (around $50/night). Rooftop pool, relaxing spa, fitness center, children’s play center, restaurant and bar. 

Mid-Range/Couple Stay Hotel in Agra

Aman Homestay – Get to the owner in this lovely homestay with a garden and spacious rooms. The reviews are excellent and it is located within walking distance to the Taj Mahal (1.8 km). 

Budget with Social Atmosphere in Agra

Zostel Agra Hostel – Offering private and dorms rooms, this social hostel has an excellent air conditioned common room and serving tasty snacks for after a long day touring Agra. It’s the best location for the price only 1.5 km away from the Taj Mahal East Gate. This is where we stayed in Agra, and we had a great experience.

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We want to hear from you

Have you visited the Taj Mahal? What were your thoughts? Any tips we missed? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Comments (54) on “ 24 Best Tips for Visiting the Taj Mahal ”

Absolutely loved reading your article on the Taj Mahal! It’s one of those iconic landmarks that truly lives up to its reputation. Your tips are incredibly helpful, especially for first-time visitors like myself who are planning a trip to India.

I appreciate how you emphasized the importance of timing your visit to avoid the crowds and make the most of the experience. It’s fascinating to learn about the different perspectives and angles for capturing that perfect photo, and your photography tips are spot on.

Your insights on respecting the culture and being mindful of dress code and behavior are invaluable. It’s essential to show reverence when visiting such a sacred site, and your reminders are a great way to ensure we do so respectfully.

Overall, your blog post has me even more excited to visit the Taj Mahal someday. Thank you for sharing your firsthand experiences and providing such detailed guidance. Can’t wait to implement these tips and create lasting memories at this breathtaking monument.

WOW! WOW! Amazing and Great information i’m glad to thank you alot for sharing valuable information. Planning to visit with friends soon.

Thank you for the post. Great information about Taj and Agra!!

Thank you , Katie,. I’ll be honest , this is one of the detailed guide about your taj mahal tour one can find online . So much detailed and precise , everything I need to know before visiting the taj mahal . I’m planning to visit the india next year and this guide will definitely help me . Thank again

Informative Post..

Amazing Blog! Thanks for sharing.

Well Explained Keep it UP.

Completely Clearly Explained Keep it up.

amazing post keep sharing with us

So happy to hear you liked the article!

This is the amazing Blog for Taj Mahal Trip. Very Useful and Informative Information.

I adore your images and this is such a nice informational post. love it….

Thank you very much for sharing this travel tips blog. I really enjoy reading this blog content update.

Nice blog and have good information about day tour to Agar. Thanks for sharing nice information.

This is a really well written post!! i have been doing my research on Agra and its places, and realized this post is a one stop collection of everything one will need.

Nicely put together!!

Thanks for sharing this great information about Taj Mahal

What’a beautiful post. such a great information about Tajmahal. thanks for sharing.

It was pleasure reading your content on Taj Mahal travel tips. I just remembered my days in India for Sunrise Taj Mahal Tour from Delhi. It was really enjoyable and wonderful. I will visit again for taj mahal day tour.

Beautiful post! Nice to read about places other than Taj in Agra, that provide beautiful views of it. Love reading your blog posts ?

Very nice description about taj and detail information about agra. Thanks for sharing.

A few points that you could update in the article: 1) What to wear section: The Taj Mahal is primarily a mausoleum, a grave site. Hence dressing modestly is expected. However due to its touristy environment no one is interested in that aspect. 2) The link to the website for night view is broken now. You could update it: https://www.tajmahal.gov.in/night-view.aspx 3) Regarding tripods, they are banned in almost all monuments maintained by Archaeological survey of India. We visited the mini Taj Mahal of India that is Bibi ka Makbara in Aurangabad and it was there too, although the security was a bit relaxed. I never understood the reason behind it, a bit let down for a serious traveller.

Great information and explain everything properly about the beautiful place Taj Mahal. Thanks for sharing the nice information.

Such great tips for visiting the Taj Mahal! I will probably go sometime this year so I am sure this would come in handy ?

Wow, really useful tips for first-time visitors to this iconic landmark. I’m saving it now because I’m sure gonna need it for my upcoming trip to India!

This is such a great informative post, love your photos! We loved the Taj so much we went twice last year ?

Great post guys! I couldn’t agree more with being organized and having a good plan for the Taj Mahal. I visited last year and I couldn’t believe the crowds. Definitely one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Thanks for overview of Agra trip. After reading this blog, Now i have a clear idea about what to do , what to buy such things in Agra. Thanks for the sharing such life saver information.

Superb Blog Thanks For Sharing Such an Amazing Post!

Good information & tips.

If I may add that one of the better places to view the Taj in relative peace is from the Mehtab Bagh especially at the time os sunset which was old garden used the Mughal royals and from here the white marble monument can be seen in the background of the Yamuna river with the sun palying its magic thorugh varying the subtle colour & shades of the grand monument. Also the view of the monument from the Agra Fort in morning almost from where Shah Jahan must have watched it over the years of his life is worth looking at as the world wonder plays around behind its white overtones with various shades of blue & orange. A photo collection of the monument captured at these locations as well below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwI4npxc-sM

Thank you for the post. Such a great information about Taj and Agra!!

Nice Post, I glad to read your post, thanks for sharing your views with us.

Mind-blowing blog dear Admin…

You seem to have written almost everything one should know about the Taj.

Wow! Such a fascinating and insightful. Really lovely photos. Thanks for sharing beautiful post about Agra. It is very interesting and beautiful place. I really like this blog. We as Bharat Taxi are providing car rental services in Agra.

Awesome post. Details are great. Really liked the Non profit and roof top restaurant.

Gorgeous Note Admin I am really very glad to read your articles you are well –knowledgeable person and you have mention some great things Thanks for sharing this note.

Its really wonderful ………all the pictures are great

Very detailed! Thank you for the information, especially about the gates!

Heya great blog though but I would suggest you to explore Goa as well….I m sure you will love it.

Wow!! Amazing blog. Great Research!!! I enjoyed it a lot, I would like to have more such blogs from you.

Dear Blogger your article is very helpful for travellers who visit Agra city. You discribed the beauty of Agra and gives us right tips.

Thank you so much, Sunil! We really appreciate your comment!

Taj Mahal is the beautiful creation in the world. It is the symbol of Love. I would love to go back again and again. Thanks for your great advice & travel guide.

You are very welcome Jennifer!

Agra is just an amazing travel destination, I have been there twice. I would love to go back again and again. I love the Taj a lot.

Thanks for your amazing travel guide and your photos are mind-blowing.

Very well written article. It was very informative and helpful.

Very beautiful images. Thanks for sharing this artical. You use a very attractive images. If you have any requirements for Taxi Services in India | Cabs in India | Car in India then you can book through our website.you will get an unforgettable moment while using our taxi services in india visit our site : https://www.bharattaxi.com/

World’s miracle one of the Taj Mahal is in India. Traveling to Taj Mahal tips you share on this blog. It’s really helpful for the traveler. Your blog is really awesome information share. Great tips. Thanks!

Katie and Ben, nicely done page with a ton of information! We’re headed there in couple weeks. Hope to make good use of your insight. Thanks for sharing!

Monty and Laila San Francisco, CA

You are very welcome, Monty and Laila! Glad you found it useful! Cheers!

Hi, I really enjoyed your post,saw the Taj Mahal and it was breathtaking. I couldn’t find the place where you took the photo of the archway with Ben in the centre above in section 24. Please can you tell me where this was taken? Thank you Bina BINA

Hi BINA, This photo was taken from the outside of the building that is to the left of the Taj Mahal (when you are facing it). Katie stood outside the building and I walked through the archways. Hope that helps!

Taj Mahal is the most sought after tourist attraction in India. You have provided some amazing tips for tourist visiting Taj Mahal and Agra.

Thanks Cijo. Hope you had an amazing visit to the Taj Mahal!

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The Ultimate Guide to the Taj Mahal in India

The Taj Mahal looms fairytale-like from the banks of the Yamuna River. It's India’s most recognized monument and is also one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The monument dates back to 1632 and is actually a tomb that contains the body of Mumtaz Mahal—the wife of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. He had it built as an ode to his love for her. It's made out of marble and took 22 years and 20 000 workers to complete. Words cannot do the Taj Mahal justice, its incredible detail simply has to be seen to be appreciated.

Agra, in the state of Uttar Pradesh, approximately 200 kilometers (125 miles) from Delhi. It's part of India's popular Golden Triangle Tourist Circuit.

The best time is from November to February, otherwise it can be unbearably hot or rainy. You'll be able to get some excellent off-season discounts though.

The Taj Mahal appears to gradually alter its color in the changing light of the day. It’s well worth the effort to get up early and spend sunrise there, as it majestically reveals itself. Visiting around dawn will also enable you to beat the huge crowds that start arriving later in the morning.

Getting There

The Taj Mahal can be visited on a day trip from Delhi. Agra is well connected by rail. The main railway station is Agra Cantt. High speed Shatabdi Express services operate from Delhi, Varanasi, and cities in Rajasthan.

• Find out the best trains from Delhi to Agra .

The Yamuna Expressway opened in August 2012 and has reduced the travel time by road from Delhi to Agra to under three hours. It starts from Noida and a toll of 415 rupees per car for a one way trip (665 rupees round trip) is payable. Read more about hiring a car and driver.

The bus is a good option if getting a train isn't possible. Comfortable, air-conditioned Volvo buses depart from Anand Vihar terminal in New Delhi every hour during the day. The cost is about 700 rupees per person. The buses go via the Yamuna Expressway and stop at Vaango restaurant for a 30 minute snack and restroom break (the toilets are clean).

Alternatively you can fly from major Indian cities, or take a tour from Delhi.

Taj Mahal Tours

Viator (in conjunction with Tripadvisor) offers a popular and highly rated Private Day Tour to Agra and the Taj Mahal from Delhi, as well as a combined Day Tour to Agra and Fatehpur Sikri and Day Tour to Agra with Culture Walk. It's also possible to see the Taj Mahal at night during the full moon on this 2 Day Private Tour of Agra from Delhi.

Alternatively, see the Taj Mahal on one of these recommended Agra day tours: 11 Hour Agra Day Tour including Sunrise and Sunset at Taj Mahal ,  Private Taj Mahal and Agra Fort Tour including meal with a view and optional professional photographer, or Sunrise or Sunset View of Taj Mahal .

If you're looking for an inexpensive tour option, U.P. Tourism runs daily, full-day sightseeing bus tours (except on Fridays), to the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. The cost is 750 rupees for Indians and 3,600 rupees for foreigners. The price includes transport, monument entry tickets, and guide fees.

Opening Hours

The Taj Mahal opens 30 minutes before sunrise and closes 30 minutes before sunset, usually around 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day, except Friday (when it's closed for prayer). The Taj Mahal is also open for night viewing every full moon from 8.30 p.m. until 12.30 a.m., plus two days before and two days after the full moon (a total of five days). Night viewing is suspended during the holy month of Ramadan every year.

Entry Fees and Information

For foreigners, the ticket price is 1,100 rupees and for Indians, the price is 50 rupees. Children younger than 15 years can enter free. Tickets can be purchased at ticket offices near the entry gates or online at this website. (Do note, tickets for the Taj Mahal are no longer able to be purchased at Agra Fort or other monuments, and only offer a minimal discount if you wish to visit other monuments on the same day).

The foreigner's ticket includes shoe covers, bottle of water, tourist map of Agra, and bus or golf cart service to the entry gate. It also enables ticket holders to enter the Taj Mahal ahead of any Indian ticket holders already waiting in line.

Night Viewing tickets cost 750 rupees for foreigners and 510 rupees for Indians, for half an hour’s admittance. Children aged three to 15 years must pay 500 rupees. These tickets must be purchased between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., one day in advance from the Archaeological Survey of India office on Mall Road. See more details here, including night viewing dates.

Vehicles aren't allowed within 500 meters of the Taj Mahal because of pollution. There are three entry gates—South, East, and West.

• The West gate is the main gate that the majority of local Indian visitors enter through, and it generally has the longest lines throughout the day. However, it's the preferred option at sunrise to avoid the crowds at the East gate.
• The East gate is popularly used by foreign tourists, as it's closest to a number of well-known hotels. It usually has shorter queues except for at sunrise, when large groups tend to arrive there. If you buy your ticket in advance the day before, it's still the best entry point. Do note that the ticket office (in Shilpgram) is inconveniently located about 10 minutes walk from the gate. Buses, golf carts and cycle rickshaws are available for those that can't, or don't want to, walk.
• The South gate is the least-used gate. It's close to a congested market area where many of the cheap hotels are situated, making it favored by budget and independent travelers. However, it doesn't open until 8 a.m. A huge sandstone gateway provides access to the inner compound there.

There are exclusive ticket counters for foreigners at both the East and West gates.

Security at the Taj Mahal

Strict security is in place at the Taj Mahal, and there are checkpoints at the entrances. Your bag will be scanned and searched. Large bags and day packs aren't allowed to be taken inside. Only small bags containing essential items are permitted. This includes one cell phone, a camera, and a water bottle per person. You can't bring edibles, tobacco products or lighters, electrical items (including phone chargers, headphones, iPads, torches), knives, or camera tripods inside. Cell phones are also banned during night viewing sessions, although cameras are still allowed. Luggage storage facilities are provided at the entry gates.

Guides and Audio Guides

If you want to marvel over the Taj Mahal without the distraction of having a tour guide with you, government-approved AudioCompass provides an inexpensive official Taj Mahal audio guide on its cell phone app. It's available in many foreign and Indian languages, including English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, and Japanese.

See the Taj Mahal Without Going Inside

If you don’t want to pay the costly admission fee or battle the crowds, you can get a great view of the Taj from across the river bank. This is ideal for sunset. One such place there is Mehtab Bagh—a 25 acre Mughal garden complex directly opposite the monument. The entry cost is 250 rupees for foreigners and 20 rupees for Indians, and it's open until sunset. Unfortunately, an unsightly barbed wire fence has been erected beside the river to stop tourists from wandering along it.

It's possible to take a row boat out on the river. Head down the path along the eastern wall of the Taj Mahal to the riverside temple, where you will find boatmen.

There's also a little-known abandoned watchtower across a sandy field on the eastern side of the Taj Mahal. It's an ideal place for a splendid sunset view of the monument. Reach it by heading east from the East Gate and taking a right at the fork in the road. Pay the official 50 rupees to enter.

Uttar Pradesh Tourism's Taj Khema hotel offers notable vistas of the Taj Mahal from its gardens too. A new marble bench was installed on a mound there in early 2015, especially for visitors. Sip tea and watch the sunset! The hotel is located about 200 meters from the monument, on the eastern side. It's a government-run establish, so don't expect great service though.

Another option is the rooftop of the Saniya Palace hotel, on the southern side of the Taj Mahal.

Cleaning of the Taj Mahal's Exterior

The first thorough cleaning of the Taj Mahal to remove the yellow discoloration from pollution and restore the marble to its original brilliant white color occurred in 2018. To achieve this, a natural clay paste was applied to the monument's exterior. The clay packing of the main dome remains and is planned to be undertaken in stages, starting from the front of the monument.

Taj Mahotsav takes place at Shilpgram in Agra, right near the Taj Mahal, from February 18-27 each year. The focus of this festival is on arts, crafts, Indian culture, and recreating the Mughal Era. It gets underway with a spectacular procession that includes elephants, camels, and drummers. Camel rides are on offer, and there are also games for the kids and a food festival. The venue has special significance, as it's apparently located on the site where the artisans who built the Taj Mahal once lived.

Where to Stay

Unfortunately, many of the hotels in Agra are as uninspiring as the city itself. However, these top Agra hotels should help make your stay a memorable one. There are accommodations to suit all budgets and many have Taj views.

Dangers and Annoyances

Visiting the Taj Mahal can be overwhelming for all the wrong reasons. Be prepared to encounter plenty of beggars and touts there. According to this news report , it has become an increasingly troublesome problem, and many visitors go back home feeling cheated, threatened and abused. Touts operate in sophisticated gangs that have counterparts in other cities who identify potential targets at railway stations. Once the tourists reach Agra, the touts start pestering them by claiming that they are guides or taxi drivers. They commonly use ploys such as free taxi rides or the promise of heavy discounts.

Note: There are 24 hour official prepaid auto rickshaw and taxi booths just outside Agra railway station. Use these to avoid the hassle, and if you book a tour there check the quality of your vehicle to make sure it's satisfactory.

Do be sure to tell auto rickshaw drivers which Taj Mahal entry gate you wish to be taken to, otherwise it's likely that you'll find yourself dropped off in the area where expensive horse and cart or camel rides wait to take tour groups to the west gate.

Apparently, there are only 50-60 approved guides at the Taj Mahal. However, more than 3,000 touts posing as photographers, guides or middleman, openly solicit customers at the monument's three gates (especially at the western gate, which receives around 60-70% of visitors). Hundreds of hawkers (who pay bribes to the police) are also a problem at the Taj Mahal, despite being officially banned.

In addition, foreigners, particularly women and parents with young children, are frequently asked to pose for photographs (or even being photographed without permission) by other people including groups of guys. This can be intrusive and uncomfortable. This news article warns about selfie seekers at the Taj Mahal.

Lastly, do be aware of the notorious gem scam , which is alarming prevalent in Agra.

Other Attractions Around Agra

Agra is a rather dirty and characterless city, so don’t spend too much time there. In case you're wondering what else to do in and around the city, take a look at these Top Places to Visit in Agra and Around.

Nature lovers will appreciate a trip to the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary at Keoladeo Ghana National Park, 55 kilometers (34 miles) from Agra.

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Complete Taj Mahal Visitor’s Guide & 10+ Helpful Tips

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links that I may earn a small commission from if you purchase something through them. This comes at no extra cost to you!

The Taj Mahal is the most visited site in all of India and witnessing this visual masterpiece with your own eyes is something I passionately believe everyone should do in their lifetime.

The world’s most famous tomb , one of the 7 New Wonders of the World and the finest example of Mughal architecture on the planet attracts over one million people every single year . That’s a mind boggling statistic, but it really is no wonder (get it…?) that this epic structure is a bucket list travel destination for so many worldwide.

The iconic white marble mausoleum is unquestionably a must-see attraction while on a trip in India and in this guide I’ll explain everything you need to know before you go, accompanied by some inspiring photography and handy tips along the way!

Table of Contents...

Useful information for Agra

• Country : India
• Population : 2.2 million
• Language : Both Hindi and English are widely spoken across India.
• Currency : Indian rupees (INR). £1/$1 = 100/82 INR
• SIM cards : I highly recommend getting a SIM card for your travels in India. This means you can use apps like Uber or Ola for cheaper taxi fares but it also means you’re always connected to the world, never needing to rely on WiFi. Get an E-SIM here:  India: eSIM Roaming Mobile Data Plan
• Visa info: Getting into India isn’t the most straight forward process. Unless you’re Indian, you’ll need to apply for an E-visa before arriving which you can do online.

A brief history of the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal took Mughal Emperor Shah Jahān 21 years to construct, starting in 1632 and finishing in 1653 AD.

The white marble Taj was built in dedication to his wife Mumtaz Mahal as a mausoleum for her body after she died in 1631 while giving birth to her 14th child. Not long after the Taj Mahal was completed, the emperor’s own health took a turn and his son actually declared himself emperor and put his father in prison for his outlandish spending. He was a prisoner for eight years until he died in 1666, with his body being placed beside his wife’s in the mausoleum which you can see today.

In total, around 20,000 workers were employed from across Asia to build the structure which comprises of Indian, Persian, and Islamic styles and was decorated in all kinds of pearls, diamonds and jewels. It has a 42 acre garden and around 1,000 elephants were used to transport materials to help construct it.

In 1983, the Taj Mahal was declared UNESCO World Heritage Site and has since been named as one of the Modern Seven Wonders of the World.

Where is it

Check it out on the interactive map below.

How to get there

Coming from Delhi or Jaipur there are dozens of trains running daily. Find cheap train tickets to Agra on 12Go here .

From Delhi you also have a few day tour options to see the Taj with a local guide, although I do recommend spending a few days in Agra to see its other attractions.

Check out this tour from Delhi if you’re pushed for time:

• Uber or Ola

India has two ride-share apps: Uber and Ola. This is the option I recommend and a ride should cost around just 200 INR from the city. With Uber you don’t need to worry about magical price changes and scams like you would in a taxi because payment is usually made automatically through the App .

• Taxi or rickshaw/tuktuk

Rickshaws may offer a cheaper price than Grab or Ola, but I had some problems in India where I would reach my destination and they would ask for more money, causing an issue. They also like to try and stop at their friend’s shops to encourage you to buy souvenirs and things like that.

• Book a tour

The most comfortable yet most expensive option is to book a small group tour. Guided tours are a great way to get around, especially somewhere as crazy as an Indian city. Travel in an air conditioned vehicle with a knowledgeable local guide and learn lots during the day.

Companies like GetYourGuide and Viator offer great tours in Agra.

Expected costs

The entrance fee for the Taj Mahal differs depending on your nationality, something that is very common in India.

• For foreigners the price is 1100 INR ($14)
• For Indians the price is 250 INR ($3)
• An additional fee of 200 INR ($2.50) is applied to everyone who wants to enter the mausoleum

Tickets can be purchased at the east or west gates of the complex, but I highly recommend buying your tickets in advance online. This avoids long queues (and I mean LONG) and potential hassle from unofficial ticket salesman near the entrances.

Buy your skip-the-line tickets for the Taj Mahal here.

10+ Taj Mahal tips

Which season to visit in.

Aim to see the Taj in the dry winter months of October to March for the best weather and temperatures. I visited in early February and as you can see from my pictures, I got pretty lucky with the weather. There is often a thick fog that consumes the area in the mornings in these months, but it’s pretty hit or miss. This is still the best time of year to visit.

Between April and May the summer heat is close to unbearable and May to September pose the threat of being caught in a typical monsoon season downpour.

Visit at sunrise

Tick off “watch an unforgettable sunrise at the Taj Mahal” from your bucket list by arriving early in the morning. If that’s not already on your bucket list, it should be!

To see the Taj with as few people as possible and catch the most beautiful light of day, aim to arrive half an hour before sunrise. This is one of the most famous tourist attractions on the entire planet , so it goes without saying that it gets super busy super fast and less than 30 minutes after sunrise the place will be jam-packed at any time of year.

The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays

This one is pretty self-explanatory, but don’t do what I did and arrive in Agra on a Thursday with the intention of visiting the Taj the next day – it’s closed on Fridays so that Muslims can worship at the on-site mosque in peace.

Try to avoid Saturdays as well because, just like most things in the world, this is the busiest day of the week.

Mondays are the quietest days

Mondays are your best bet for visiting the Taj with as few visitors as possible, meaning you won’t need to queue for as long or have as many people spoiling your photos.

Taj Mahal security

The security checks on entrance to the complex are quite strict, so don’t take anything you don’t absolutely need.

Expect a full-on security shakedown upon entry and for your bag to completely emptied. You won’t be allowed to take in any food, tripods, spare camera lenses, drones and so on. Any large backpacks will also not be permitted. All you really need is a camera, so pack light to avoid anything being confiscated.

Remove your shoes

You must remove your shoes to walk around the actual Taj Mahal area.

You can keep them on through the entrance and until you reach the Taj, but then you must either give them to the shoe guy, put on some shoe covers (for a donation) or store them in your backpack.

How much time to allow

You might be surprised how quickly you can see all that the Taj has to offer, but to explore the grounds and see inside the mausoleum I would recommend allowing at least a couple of hours.

You don’t want to rush through your morning at such an iconic place, so milk the hell out of it and don’t go home with any regrets!

Photography is banned inside the Taj Mahal

As you’ll see in the next tip, this isn’t actually as irritating as you may imagine.

Don’t expect much from the interior

Unfortunately, a harsh reality of visiting the Taj Mahal is that there isn’t actually an awful lot to see inside.

You can view the tombs off Shah Jahān and his beloved wife, but that’s honestly about it for points of interest. Externally the building is simply phenomenal, but the inside is admittedly slightly disappointing. I don’t know what I was expecting, but I was expecting more!

Dressing appropriately

Although there isn’t actually an enforced dress code at the Taj Mahal, it’s always important be be respectful at religious sites and holy places.

To avoid unwelcome stares, heckles and general hassle I’d recommend picking something other than short shorts and revealing tops to wear. Keeping your shoulders and knees covered is a good rule to remain respectful around local people.

Quiet photo locations

The most famous view of the Taj is the one you’ll see as you enter, but you can be creative here.

To escape the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds on the main promenade from the south, head towards the Taj and then veer left to the mosque building. It has some breathtaking arches and quieter locations for shooting photos with hardly anybody else around.

If you do this straight after sunrise, you’ll be all alone.

To get a guide or not to get a guide

This can be a tricky one. There are hundreds of “guides” desperately trying to get your attention (and realistically your money) at the entrance, most often applying aggressive sales tactics to do so.

Although I didn’t get a guide at the Taj Mahal, my overall experience of guides in India was not great. They are friendly and informative until it’s time to pay, at which point they’ll squeeze you for all you’re worth and make you feel bad about how much you’ve giving. It’s sad to say, but at the end of the day you just feel like a walking ATM to some people here, and all they’re after is “more money”.

For a reliable (and non-pushy) guide, I’d recommend booking an official group tour like either of these ones:

• Private Taj Mahal and Agra Fort Half-Day Tour
• Taj Mahal and Mausoleum Tour with Skip-the-Line Entry

Don’t get me wrong, having a guide to explain every detail would be a fantastic and worthwhile experience I’m sure, but I didn’t have one and I was very satisfied with my visit. I guess it just depends on how much you want to be told and how much you can teach yourself online beforehand.

Pay a visit to the Baby Taj in Agra

During your stay in Agra I really recommend stopping by the Baby Taj (actually called the Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah) in the city too.

Think of it as the Taj Mahal but on a much smaller scale, providing a much more personal experience. It was built 25 year before the completion of the Taj Mahal and shares some striking similarities with it’s big (or little, I guess) brother down the road. It is said to have been used as inspiration for the Taj Mahal’s design.

My experience at the Taj Mahal

I visited the Taj Mahal in February 2019 during a 10 day trip through India, in which time I spent 3 days in Agra.

There’s no getting around the fact that it was, and always will be, ridiculously busy here. If you come expecting that then you should be alright, otherwise you’ll get a very unwelcome early morning surprise. I arrived just after sunrise and it wasn’t too bad considering, but by the time I left it was hectic. I can’t imagine the scenes of arriving here at midday!

My favourite view was from the mosque on the west side of the complex. Here you can get a stunning view of the symmetrical Taj Mahal through the arches with (somehow) no one else around.

Aside from the in-your-face tour guides, constant selfie requests and security overkill at the entrance (all of which I expected), the only thing that slightly disappointed me was the interior of the mausoleum. When I said “don’t expect much” earlier, I really mean it. You’d think there was loads to see inside because of the size of the thing, when in fact there’s literally just one big empty room that tourists are allowed in.

Overall, the Taj Mahal was unreal to see with my own eyes. I think it’s something everyone should see and I’m so glad I got to witness it at least once in my life. If it isn’t on your bucket list – add it now!

Where to stay in Agra

Affordable accommodation is something India does very well, and in Agra you’re spoiled for choice no matter what your budget is.

Booking.com and Hostelworld are the best travel resources for getting the best deals on accommodation.

• Zigzag Homestay
• Taj Street Hostel
• The Coral Tree Boutique Homestay

Packing essentials

Respectable clothing: Don’t forget to take something to cover your shoulders and knees while visiting the Taj Mahal!

Travel camera: Pack a compact travel camera to take nicer photos than a phone and document your time in Agra. I use this one which, for me, is an essential item everywhere I go.

Water: Make sure you pack a reusable water bottle and plenty of water to fight the humidity.

Portable charger: You’ll be taking lots of pictures around Agra so pack a portable charger to charge your phone and devices on the move.

Hat, sunscreen and sunglasses: Gotta’ stay protected!

Best tours in Agra

Happy travelling!

HELPFUL RESOURCES FOR PLANNING YOUR TRIP

Accommodation: Booking.com , Hostelworld

Tours : GetYourGuide , Viator , Klook , TripAdvisor

Transport : 12Go , Omio , Trip.com , Rome2Rio

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Visiting the Taj Mahal: Everything you need to know

Is there a sight more iconic, more beautiful, more jaw-droppingly spectacular than the Taj Mahal? 

Quite honestly, we can’t think of one.

At the very least, there’s no mausoleum more grand, no declaration of love more apparent than building a marble masterpiece for one’s favorite wife… And no better reason to travel than seeing its magnificence up close.

After all, this is art. Built in Agra, India between 1631 and 1648, it’s also history. And, of course, it’s the perfect opportunity to take some otherworldly photos. So, to help visitors prepare for their Taj Mahal travels, we’ve prepared a little guide, enlisting the help of some Intrepid experts – from Destination Managers to acclaimed trip leaders – to cover all the bases.

Coming up: what to bring, where to take the best snaps, what else to see in Agra (and beyond), and so much more…

Before you arrive at the Taj Mahal

That old saying ‘patience is a virtue’ really comes into its own when discussing the Taj Mahal.

Be prepared to be surrounded by hundreds (if not thousands) of people. These include Indian men, women and children who may ask to take photos with you.

To prepare with the help of other travelers and a local tour guide, consider taking a group tour. Intrepid have Taj-visiting trips that range from 8-day Golden Triangle tours (now with solo-only departures !) to 15-day trips dedicated to food , to 19-day trips combining the highlights of India and Nepal .

If you’re more pressed for time, you can check out the Taj Mahal on a whirlwind day tour from Delhi. Check out Urban Adventures to see the itinerary that we’d recommend for this. And while you’re at it, check out their day trips in Delhi , Jaipur , Varanasi and Mumbai !

What to bring to the Taj Mahal

Always leave your valuables in the hotel. There are lockers available at the Taj but it’s best to have minimal belongings on you so you don’t spend too much time checking in.

You really only need to bring the following in one small bag:

What to wear to the Taj Mahal

There is no dress code but you should still be respectful. If you want to enter the mosque, you will need to cover your head, shoulders and knees.

It gets hot in Agra and there is very little shade, so wear light clothing and make sure you wear sunscreen. Then again, Agra also gets very cold in winter (Nov-Feb) so layers are your friend too.

If you visit with Intrepid, you’ll be taken there earlier in the day or later in the afternoon to avoid the worst of the heat.

Having been to the Taj a few times, I’ve learnt the importance of wearing shoes that are easy to remove. You need to take your shoes off when you go inside and the easier they are to slip on and off the better. This actually applies to much of India – shoes with loads of laces are hard!

Other things you need to know

No food is allowed inside.

Cigarettes and lighters are also not allowed.

Tripods and additional lighting equipment need prior permission to be brought with. Photography inside the mausoleum is prohibited. Most electronics (except cameras and small video cameras) are not allowed.

Be wary of touts, thieves and rude shop keepers. It’s a busy, high-pressure area, but keep your wits about you and you won’t need to worry!

When you’re at the Taj Mahal

Go early, wait for space to explore and photograph, and get yourself away from the crowds (if possible).

And simply focus on taking in all the magic. Even Intrepid leaders who see the Taj Mahal monthly (or more!) remain in awe of it. Sana Jinah , one of the company’s inspiring female tour guides, has some tips on how to do this:

The Taj Mahal is a place for exploring quietly on your own or with loved ones. So, once I’m done briefing my groups I give them a good 2-3 hours inside the Taj. There are ways I try to make the experience special and memorable for travelers, but if I say what they are then they will no longer be surprises! The Taj has such a charm. Every time I see it it looks different (due to the direction of the sunlight). It’s so beautiful…

She also recommends those looking for optimum conditions try visiting the Taj Mahal at sunrise on a clear day.

Tips for taking photos at the Taj Mahal

Everyone wants that iconic shot of themselves at the Taj Mahal. You know the one – where you sit on the bench and the grandeur of the marble mausoleum forms the backdrop.

Below are some photography suggestions from Intrepid’s General Manager in India, Pravin Tamang . (His photography is amazing –  check it out !)

• Shot from the arch of the main doorway
• Capture the reflection of the fountains that line the route towards the Taj Mahal’s main platform
• Shot of Taj Mahal from the riverside with the reflection on the river
• Shot from the other side of the river, ‘Mehtab Bagh’, where you get a glimpse of Taj
• The Taj Mahal can also be shot from some parts of the Red Fort

You can also get great photos from the many rooftops of restaurants close to the Taj Mahal. Unfortunately, Agra does get pretty smoggy, so winter can often have poor visibility earlier in the day and around sunset. That said, this can make shots look very atmospheric!

What to do after visiting the Taj Mahal

First, go back to your hotel room, take a shower, and revel in the relative peace and quiet. Then explore these cool destinations both in and out of Agra:

What to do in Agra

The Taj Mahal is, quite clearly, the star of the show in this northern Indian city. But the Agra Fort is also stunning, especially if you didn’t get a chance to go to the Red Fort in Delhi. A 16th-century Mughal monument and UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s a sight not to be missed.

Despite being located on the  Golden Triangle  tourist circuit, there’s less to do in Agra than in many other Indian cities. It’s pretty polluted from the heavy industry (more on that later) and you likely won’t spend too long there, whatever the trip.

One way that Intrepid tries to show visitors a different perspective on the country is by (sometimes) taking travelers to  Sheroes Hangout . Just blocks from the Taj Mahal, it’s a small cafe run entirely by female acid attack survivors. Here, victims of attacks are employed and tell their stories. It can be confronting, but also inspiring and memorable in equal measures.

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Where to go outside of Agra

There are various great destinations only a few hours drive (well, 4-7) from the Taj Mahal. Of these, Orchha, Jaipur and Pushkar are all tourist-friendly, peaceful and beautiful places.

Orchha is a town that travelers often overlook. This is a shame, because it’s historic, laid-back and has a bunch of beautiful temples. It’s not always on tour itineraries, but you CAN visit it on  this 15-day trip  from Delhi to Kathmandu (cooking demo and palace visit included!).

Chaturbhuj Temple in Orchha

Jaipur is much more well-known. Also known as the ‘Pink City’ , the capital of Rajasthan is full of chaos, charm and unique architecture. Visit the hilltop Amber Fort, haggle in the enchanting bazaars, and consider taking a hot air balloon over the city to take it all in.

Pushkar is another underrated town. One of the oldest and most serene towns in India, it’s home to Pushkar Lake, a sacred spot for Hindus that’s utterly dazzling at sundown. Because of its holy nature, the vegetarian food here is simply unmissable. Visit on this 15-day trip all around Rajasthan.

A final note about the Taj Mahal’s mud therapy

As you may have read or heard, the Taj Mahal has recently been undergoing a very thorough clean. Yep, to be precise, a mud mask as of April 2018.

Why? Air pollution from factories in Agra had been slowly turning the Taj Mahal’s ivory-white surfaces yellow – and this was one way of restoring them to their former glory. The work – applying a clay traditionally used to clean marble to the entire structure of the Taj – was carried out by the Archaeological Survey of India. And this work was part of a series of restorative projects carried out on the historic site.

(Image credits from top to bottom: Intrepid Travel, Stephanie Young, Intrepid Travel, Intrepid Travel, Sarah Dibdin, Chris Grundy, Hamish Cattell, David Williams)

Feeling inspired?

Bex Shapiro

Born in London and based in Toronto, Bex is happiest anywhere she can connect with interesting people over good food. She's passionate about sustainable travel and powerful storytelling, and her favourite cities are New York and Shanghai. She's also the Senior Editorial Manager at Intrepid. Follow her adventures on Twitter and Insta @BexShapiro.

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Taj Mahal Visit: Expert Tips + Agra Travel Guide

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I earn from any qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

This article is an Agra travel guide that contains information on planning a Taj Mahal visit along with expert Taj Mahal visiting tips and secrets.

Visiting the Taj Mahal in Agra can be overwhelming, especially if it's your first visit to India. Agra, in general, is overcrowded with locals. Furthermore, the large influx of tourists adds to the population. Nonetheless, that being said, there's nothing more captivating than seeing the Taj Mahal for the very first time. This post is a detailed Agra travel guide that will come handy whether you're a first time visitor to Agra or even if you've been there before. In fact, with this post, your Taj Mahal visit will be simplified, with some expert Taj Mahal visiting tips and secrets.

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Table of Contents

• Taj Mahal Timings - When does the Taj Mahal Open and Close

Best Time of the Day to Visit the Taj Mahal

Best time of the year to visit the taj mahal.

• Taj Mahal Visit - Top Tips for Visiting the Taj Mahal

What to Wear During Your Taj Mahal Visit

Planning a taj mahal visit from delhi, how to reach taj mahal from delhi, one day trip from delhi to agra, agra travel guide - places to visit in agra in 2 days, where to stay in agra, what to know before visiting the taj mahal.

If you're looking to make the best of exploring the monument during your Taj Mahal visit, it's important to know a few facts first. I've met quite a few people (including myself) who didn't do enough research before visiting an important monument. Consequently, it leads to a few shocks and disappointments. Take a look at some relevant information with respect to visiting the Taj Mahal.

Taj Mahal Timings - When Does the Taj Mahal Open and Close

The Taj Mahal opening timings are from sunrise to sunset . The ticket counters open an hour before sunrise. It's important to note here that the Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays . There is a small percentage of people who come to Agra on Fridays, not knowing that they won't be able to visit it. While there are plenty of Taj Mahal viewpoints where you'll get to see it anyways, you don't wanna miss out on viewing the Taj Mahal from up-close. Check out the opening time of the Taj Mahal on the official wesbite of the Taj Mahal .

The best time of the day to see the Taj Mahal is, undoubtedly, sunrise. You will be surprised to see a large number of people gathered at the gates early in the morning. Granted that it gets overwhelming to see a huge crowd. At the same time, there will be numerous people coming to you, asking you to hire them as your guide. All of that being said, there's nothing more mesmerizing than watching the Taj Mahal come alive during sunrise . Similarly, sunset is also one of the best times to visit the Taj Mahal. The reflection of the sun in the nearby Yamuna river visible from the Taj is quite spectacular.

Must Read: Best Places to Visit in Varanasi in 2 Days

• October to March : This is probably the best time of the year to visit Agra . Although some might find the weather a little cold, it's a much better alternative to visiting Agra during the summer heat. With this in mind, note that December and January can get quite cold with temperatures dropping as low at 2°C.
• April to June : These summer months are the hottest time of the year . Generally speaking, summer in North India can be unsparingly hot. Carry a water bottle with you at all times to stay hydrated.
• July to September : The monsoon showers during this time of the year provide the much-needed respite from the heat. If you're trying to avoid the extreme heat and cold, this is the best time of the year to visit Agra. In any event, carry a raincoat or umbrella while traveling to Agra in the rainy season.

Must Read: A Bangalore Itinerary for 1 Day

Taj Mahal Visit - Top Tips for Vsiting the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal gets over 8 million visitors annually. Needless to say, it gets crowded and overbearing. To make the most of your Taj Mahal visit and avoid facing any hassles, follow these simple tips. These will help you to seamlessly visit this top attraction in Agra.

1. Choosing the Gate to Enter the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal has three gates - the eastern gate, the western gate, and the southern gate. The southern gate is an exit-only gate in a not-very-nice area and is best avoided. The western gate of the Taj Mahal is a popular choice, which makes it the most crowded one. This is the reason why choosing the eastern gate to enter the Taj Mahal would be a wise decision. In the morning, the queue here is approximately 10-15 minutes long, which is quite decent.

2. Where to Buy Tickets to the Taj Mahal

Tickets to the Taj Mahal can be bought on the spot from ticket counters near the gates. Ticket counters open an hour before sunrise . The Taj Mahal ticket costs are divided into four categories.

• Indian Nationals - INR 50 ( plus an additional INR 200 to enter the main mausoleum)
• Visitors from SAARC or BIMSTEC Nations - INR 540 ( plus an additional INR 200 to enter the main mausoleum)
• Foreign Nationals not belonging to SAARC or BIMSTEC Nations - INR 1100 ( plus an additional INR 200 to enter the main mausoleum)
• Children below the age of 15 - Free

You can even buy tickets to the Taj Mahal online .

Must Read: A Guide to all the Old Goa Attractions

3. How to Reach the Taj Mahal

This one is probably one of the more helpful Taj Mahal visiting tips that I found. If you're staying on the Taj Mahal east gate road, which I recommend, walk to the Taj Mahal eastern gate parking. On the other hand, if you're staying elsewhere, ask your cab or tuk-tuk driver to drop you here. At this point, no vehicles are permitted to go any closer to the Taj Mahal. Here you'll find rickshaws or tuk-tuks charging you INR 50 or more to drop you to the Taj, which is at the distance of 1.2 km from the east gate parking. However, what a lot of people don't know is that if you go inside the parking area, the government operates battery vehicles that take you directly to the Taj Mahal . Moreover, they just charge INR 10 for this ride! These vehicles operate both to and from the Taj Mahal and the parking lot.

4. Know What Not to Carry inside the Taj Mahal

Security inside the Taj Mahal is tight. There is a thorough bag check done at the gate. Thus, to avoid wasting your precious time, know what not to carry to the Taj Mahal. Tripods and drones are banned inside the Taj Mahal. In fact, drones are illegal in all of Agra. Any books, except for guide books, are not permitted inside. Also, be mindful of any cigarettes or lighters lying around in your bag. In my experience, carrying a small bag containing just a wallet, important cards, a camera, and a small water bottle is enough.

5. Get that Famous Shot of the Taj Mahal

The moment you walk into the Taj Mahal's big gate, there's the first Taj Mahal viewpoint. There'll be scores of people gathered here to take a picture. However, you need to keep walking ahead. There is another viewpoint located just a few meters ahead. The view of the Taj Mahal looks much better from here. Not to mention, most of the "famous" shots of the Taj Mahal are taken from this second viewpoint. There's even a bench here to sit and get a nice shot with the Taj Mahal in the background. Often there's a queue to get a picture taken here. Wait patiently for a few minutes and you'll get your epic shot!

Must Read: Where to Find the Best Views of the Taj Mahal

6. Get a Close-Up View and Notice the Intricate Details

The Taj Mahal is more than just a structure made of white marble. From far, it may look like a simple marbled tomb whereas, from up close, you'll be able to notice just how much effort has been put into the details. As a matter of fact, the entire monument has been carved up with intricate writings and patterns all over it. Get up close, enter the area just outside the main mausoleum and take some time to walk around to marvel at these details.

7. View the Taj Mahal from a Mosque

There are two structures on either side of the Taj Mahal. On the east side, there's a building called the Mehman Khana  whereas, on the west, there's a mosque. This is the place to go if you want a picture of the Taj Mahal from a beautifully arched frame. In fact, I've written a detailed post on where to find the best views of the Taj Mahal . You'll find a guide to this mosque and many more Taj Mahal viewpoints in that post.

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8. Beware of Footwear Thieves inside the Taj Mahal

Yup, you read that right. To enter the mausoleum inside the Taj Mahal, you need to either remove your footwear or cover it up with a cloth that you can purchase outside the gate. If you choose to remove your footwear, be mindful that when you come back, it might not be there. And this comes from personal experience. It happened to my friend while we were inside the mausoleum. This is the reason why purchasing a protective cover is advised. However, most people don't dispose of these covers properly and you'll find them littered all over the place. If you choose to go with this option, please discard these covers only in the dustbin instead of throwing it on the road.

Generally speaking, there's no official dress code for visiting the Taj Mahal . However, it's advisable to wear clothes that cover your knees and shoulders, especially because that part of India is conservative and also because there's a mosque inside the Taj Mahal complex. Maxi dresses, long skirts, brightly-colored trousers look great against the white of the Taj. Many men and women dress up in Indian clothes such as sarees and churidars. It's heartening to see them embrace the local style of clothing. During the summers, carry light cotton clothes. On the other hand, during winter, definitely wear sweaters and jackets to keep yourself warm.

Delhi to Agra is a distance of 230 km approximately. This small distance can be covered via road or by train. Buses and trains are inexpensive ways to reach Agra from Delhi. But, these two means of transportation can get crowded. In that case, hiring a cab is also a viable, albeit, more expensive option.

Must Read: Top 8 Instagrammable Spots in Delhi

Delhi to Agra by Train

There are plenty of trains from Delhi to Agra running all day. Nonetheless, I suggest taking an early morning train to beat the afternoon heat and reach Agra as early as possible. I would recommend 2 trains. First is the Taj Express . It leaves Delhi at 7.10 am from the Hazrat Nizamuddin station and reaches Agra within 3 hours. It has comfortable seating and you can usually book the train on the same or previous day and still get a seat. 

The second train, the one I traveled in, is the Gatimaan Express . This too leaves from Hazrat Nizamuddin station in Delhi. It's the fastest train from Delhi to Agra . It leaves from Delhi at 8.10 am and reaches Agra within 1 hour 40 minutes. There are 2 coaches on this train - the AC chair car (costing INR 750 per seat) and the executive AC chair car (costing INR 1500 per seat). They serve a warm wholesome breakfast on this train . I would highly recommend taking this train from Delhi to Agra!

Delhi to Agra by Bus

Just like trains, there are also regular buses from Delhi to Agra. Head to any travel agency and they will put you on a comfortable AC bus to Agra. The cost of the ticket is usually INR 500. The journey from Delhi to Agra by road takes approximately 3 hours via the Yamuna Expressway.

Since Agra is just a short distance from Delhi, some people choose to take a day trip to Agra. Since the Taj Mahal can get crowded before noon, it's advisable to leave from Delhi early in the morning . Thus, reach Agra by 10 am. Firstly, visit the Taj Mahal. Then, see some of the other famous sights in Agra, which are mentioned in the next section. Before you leave, don't forget to see a sunset view of the Taj Mahal. Finally, you can leave Agra just after seeing the sunset. There are trains running all day. Just make sure you know the timing of the last train to Delhi.

Must Read: A Complete Delhi Travel Guide

Even though this Agra travel guide focuses mainly on the aspect of planning a smooth Taj Mahal visit, I strongly recommend spending at least 2 days in Agra to take in all the views of the Taj Mahal and to visit all the other sightseeing spots. Take a look at some of the best places to visit in Agra in 2 days.

1. Agra Fort

The Agra Fort was the colossal home of the Mughal Emperors and their families. From the Mughal emperor Akbar to his son Jehangir and Jehangir's son Shahjahan, the creator of the Taj Mahal, each of them has lived here. This fort has a beautiful garden, red sandstone as well as white marble sections, and great views of the Taj Mahal. The Mughals lived lavish lives so you'll get an insight into their abode. I would highly recommend hiring a guide because of the interesting stories they will tell you about the fort.

2. Mehtab Bagh

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Mehtab Bagh, or "Moonlight Garden" offers one of the best views of the Taj Mahal. It's located across the river, directly opposite the Taj Mahal. The garden is quite large and has some tress so you can sit in the shade and look at the Taj. Additionally, it's also great to walk around and find good angles for photographing the Taj Mahal.

3. Sunset View of Taj Mahal from Dussehra Ghat

Not only does Dussehra Ghat offer a spectacular view but also the most beautiful sunset view of the Taj Mahal. To reach here, turn right from the Taj Mahal eastern gate and walk down to the end of the road. This spot is getting popular among visitor so you'll see quite a few of them gathered to watch the sunset. Watching the sun go down across the Taj is one of the best things to do in Agra.

4. Watch out for the hillarious signs

Let's be honest. We all love a misspelt road sign that makes us laugh. Luckily enough, you'll find quite a few of these in Agra. There was one liquor shop that I came across which had a hysterical sign board. Can you guess what it says?

5.. Visit a Rooftop Restaurant in Agra

If you're looking for unique places to photograph the Taj Mahal, then the answer lies in the rooftop restaurants in Agra. As a matter of fact, it's one restaurant in particular. Saniya Palace Restaurant  is well-known for some of the best views of the Taj Mahal. It is located close to the southern gate of the Taj Mahal and is also an easy walking distance from the east gate. The food here is decent enough. Plus, you get a breathtaking view with your meal.

It's advisable to find hotels near the Taj Mahal Eastern Gate which will put you a short walk away from the Taj Mahal. There's a range of hotels and hostels on this road.

• Hostels in Agra - Zostel Agra , ZigZag Hostel , Moustache Hostel
• Budget Hotels in Agra - Taj Villa
• Mid-Range Hotels in Agra - Howard Palaza The Fern Agra , Trident Agra
• Luxury Hotels in Agra - The Oberoi Amarvilas

Search for hotels in Agra on Booking.com

Zostel Agra

I stayed at Zostel Agra for 3 nights when I had planned my Taj Mahal visit. What I loved the most about Zostel Agra was it's close proximity to the eastern gate of the Taj Mahal. I just had to walk a couple of hundred meters to reach the battery car parking and take a ride to the Taj Mahal for a mere INR 10. Even without it, the Taj Mahal was less than a kilometer from the hostel. Plus, it was convenient to go to the other places to visit in Agra in 2 days from here. Zosel Agra has dorms as well as private rooms and the cafe + common room has a view to die for! (pictured above).

Did You Enjoy this Article on Planning a Taj Mahal Visit + Agra Travel Guide?

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I think the crowds are what worry me the most, but this was very reassuring!

The Taj Mahal is one of those bucket list places that I really hope to visit soon!! Thanks for this great and very informative guide. The rooftop restaurants in Agra sound wonderful

This is the most complete guide I have ever seen about visiting the Taj Mahal. I’m going this fall and I am for sure going to use all your tips!! Thank you for sharing.

I’m glad this post could be of help 🙂

This blog post was so well written! I’ve been wanting to visit India so badly and will save this for when I finally make it there. Great photos as well!

This is so helpful! Thank you for sharing this, as I’m planning to visit Taj Mahal later this year and just started to do my travel research – there is so much to consider! Your photos are beautiful, I wish I was there already.

You’ll love visiting the Taj Mahal! Hit me up if you need any other info while planning your trip 🙂

Such a detailed, informative post and the photographs are stunning. Would love to sit down by the Dussehra Ghat and take in the view next time we visit.

I have a friend who’s going to India soon, I think he needs to read this. 🙂 What I liked the most is funny road signs. Made me laugh.

As someone who had never been to the Taj Mahal before, I found this to be supremely helpful, so thank you! This might be a dumb question, but why aren’t books allowed inside?

Thats one well written post, good job. I know it takes a really long time to make a post like that, and how many hours that goes into research. Creds!

Thanks for sharing handy guide regarding visit to Taj Mahal. Sometimes, it is very crowded and therefore your tips are very useful. Also from which gate to enter, is also very important information. You have taken wonderful shots of Taj.

It was probably the crowd or the heat or the combination of both, but I felt Taj Mahal was totally overrated. Being asked for a guide every 2 minutes was the most irritating bit! Why can’t the government control the number of guides like in Rajasthan where it is allotted from a common ticket window? Anyway, you’ve gorgeous pictures and great tips for first time visitors.

You have no idea how much I actually wanted to visit this place. It looks so awesome and charming. Besides this guide for first timers seems to be really useful, I make sure to save it for later.

Thanks for this- especially what to wear at the Taj Mahal! There’s a lot of conflicting advice out there, but now I see it’s because while the dress code isn’t “official”, it’s still in a more conservative area.

Great tips and very handy. We were just talking to some friends who had recently visited The Taj Mahal and they talked alot about the crowds. I like your tips about visiting at sunrise as well as capturing shots with other view points. Great post!

This is such handy guide to visit Taj mahal. Crowds worry me lot and at Taj, beating the crowd at sunrise also seems impossible!! loved reading your post.

Interesting – why is it closed on Fridays? Is that for religious reasons? Good tip on the shoes – I’m assuming you could also take them off and put them in your bag? And why no books??

There’s a mosque within the premises which holds the namaz on Fridays. I’m not sure why they don’t allow books inside – it seems incredulous but unless it’s a guidebook on the Taj Mahal, they won’t allow you to carry it inside.

Completely a great written post to explore Agra Tajmahal, also a Beautiful place to capture pictures and the views. Thanks for sharing the guide.

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Taj Mahal is very popular place, and the world’s miracle one of them is in India. Most of tourist visit this place because of historical places. You shared the info is useful for new visitors. Great blog!

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This was incredibly helpful. Is it said I had no idea about the Friday closures? The photos and tripod information are really useful too. Thanks for sharing

Such beautiful photos – they bring back memories 🙂 I loved the Taj and would love to return one day with my little family, this post is super useful, thanks for sharing.

This post is so helpful. The Taj Mahal is on my list of things I really want to do. I am concerned about the crowds that visit but hopefully with some suggestions from your post I will be fine.

Such a detailed post! Love it. This is on my bucket list. Saving this for when I can make it there! Thanks so much.

Nice coverage of the place, Very informative blog and suggestion for travelers. I really like to this blog its very interesting and informative. Thanks for your amazing travel guide and your photos are mind-blowing.

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The Complete Insider Guide to Visiting Taj Mahal – 25 Secret Tips You Should Know

Like the first love, you never forget the first time you visit the Taj Mahal located in Agra which is also known as the city of love. It is also one of the new seven wonders of the world and no matter how much you have seen it in the photos; nothing compares to the overwhelming feeling of bliss that you feel when you see it for the first time in your life.

Everything You Need To Read As Guide To Visiting Taj Mahal – Insider Tips for Visiting taj Mahal

For those who are coming to witness a timeless wonder in white marble, here are my best top secret tips to know before you visit Taj Mahal that I also give to all my guests staying in my boutique homestay in Agra close to Taj Mahal .

1. Best Time and Season to Visit Taj Mahal

The best time to visit Taj Mahal is between the months of September to March. This is actually the main tourist season also for most part of north India. Except for few days between Christmas to first week of January, when it is too foggy early morning,  the sunrise is actually the best time because of the less crowds, better lighting at the Taj which gives you good photos and also you don’t have to bear the high heat during the mid day which is usual in this part of the country.

This September to March season has the most comfortable temperatures, ranging from 10° – 30°C (50° – 86°F).

• September – March: The most comfortable temperature, but also the most crowds.
• April – June: Can get incredibly hot, with temperatures peaking at 45°C (113°F).
• July – August: Monsoon season, so try your best to avoid visit. If you do, bring an umbrella.

2. How to Reach Agra to Visit Taj Mahal

If you go to the Taj Mahal, I highly recommend not taking the bus. Travel from Delhi / Jaipur to Agra either by train or flight or a taxi. It’s around  200 km from Delhi, but do not think of taking a bus as it takes too long (6 hours!) with multiple stops. You can hire a driver or take an Uber (Price INR 4,000+ one way) from Delhi to reach Agra in just 3.5 – 4 hours depending on traffic.

Or you can book well in advance the super fast trains – Gatimaan Express or Shatabdi Express. They take only 90 minutes to reach Agra and breakfast is included too. Make sure you book them as early as possible. Last minute train tickets are not possible in most of India unless you are really, really lucky!

3. Where to Stay Near Taj Mahal

There are many hotel options in Agra and near the Taj Mahal where you can stay overnight. Here are a few suggestions for accommodations which have great customer reviews and hence reliable. Book your stay in advance for a hassle-free travel experience.

For luxury travelers, there is the  Oberoi Amarvilas , a 5-star hotel. It is just 600 meters away from the monument of love and every room has fantastic views of the Taj Mahal. You can relax, dine and rejuvenate in the spa with luxury meant for the Royals at prices starting from 40,000 INR (approx. $545) per night.

Other luxury hotels are Jaypee Palace Hotel, Courtyard by Marriott Agra, Hilton, Trident Agra, ITC Mughal Sheraton, Radisson and Hotel Ramada to name a few. The price per night ranging from 6,000 – 15,000 INR ($ 80 – $ 200) approx.

If you are a backpacker with a minimal budget, you can stay in many hostels which are at walking distance to Taj Mahal. Or you can choose the many Homestays like ours – The Hideout Agra – which is located at Fatehebad Road just at 15 mins walk to Taj Mahal.

4. Do NOT Stay Very Close to Taj Mahal

Staying too close to Taj Mahal in budget hotel/hostel or homestay is a good option ONLY until you visit the Taj as you can just have a 2 minutes walk to enter Taj. Later due to the many security reasons it becomes a hassle if you’re staying too close. Due to many Government restrictions, Uber or similar taxi service will not pick or drop you to your place to stay. There are no good restaurants to eat, no good cafes, no drug stores or medical facilities.

So every time you need to go out to eat or do something or see things other than Taj, you need to walk couple of minutes till you’re out of the security zone. The whole area of 1 mile around the Taj Mahal is a tourist trap where you can be easily scammed at almost any place.

The best location to stay in Agra is on Fatehabad Road – which is where you will find all the luxury hotels situated along with coffee shops, popular multi-cusine restaurants, Pizza Hut, Domino’s, many pubs, medical facilities and almost everything at a walking distance. This Fatehabad Road area is safe to walk even up-to midnight and if you’re staying anywhere on this road you are well-connected to everything including railway station. You can easily get a Tuk-tuk or call an Uber even at midnight from here unlike the area close to Taj Mahal.

5. Best Time of the Day to Visit Taj Mahal

Try to Be the First Ones to Reach!

Taj Mahal has a mystical aura which can be best enjoyed when the crowds are sparse, and that is possible only during the morning hours. Try to be there before 6.00 a.m., which is when the gates will open. You may still find a queue but it would definitely be less crowded compared to the rest of the day.

Opening hours: Sunrise to Sunset. Usually 6:00 am to 6:30 pm for day visits (and 8:30 pm to 12:30 pm for night visits, two days before and after every full moon). Check local sunrise timings for more accurate opening time. 

Smog and Fog

The best time to explore North India is from October to March when the days are pleasant and the nights are cool. December and January can be foggy, so sunrise and morning viewings of the Taj Mahal may be obstructed. Additionally, the smog that envelopes Delhi, Agra, and surrounding areas in November (due to stubble burning) may also affect viewings at any time of day. It is difficult to predict, but be aware of these seasonal interference.

6. How Long to Stay in The Taj Mahal

You can easily spend 2-3 hours. It all depends on the person and on how many selfies and photos you want to take, or how much time would you just want to stand in a ‘wow’ moment admiring the Taj Mahal. Maximum time permitted is 3 Hours to stay inside and if you are late in coming out there’s a penalty fine for over staying inside.

Taj Mahal opens 30 Minutes before sunrise and closes 30 Minutes before sunset during normal operating days). Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays for general viewing. Other days it is always open.

Night time tickets cost 750 rupees for foreigners and 510 rupees for Indian nationals, for half an hour’s admittance. These tickets must be purchased between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., one day in advance from the Archaeological Survey of India office on Mall Road.

7. Keep Realistic Expectations

Don’t expect a beautiful sunrise in solitude. The sunrise isn’t actually behind the Taj Mahal; plus, the gates don’t open until the sun has actually risen. That said, the morning lighting is lovely. And even though you’re waking up early and beating the majority of crowds, you certainly won’t find yourself alone – there are crowds all throughout the day, even right when the gates open. There are people who reach there as early as 5 am to be the first one inside Taj.  As long as your expectations are realistic, you won’t regret waking up early.

8. From Where to Enter Taj Mahal

There are 3 entrance gates to the Taj Mahal.

• The East Gate is where the actual car parking is and it is more suitable for big groups arriving in coaches or taxis. If you’re living in one of the hotels on East gate road, this is the best option for you to simply walk up to it.
• The West Gate is further from most of the hotels, and this is the most crowded gate during the day. However, it is the least crowded at sunrise. Like for us, all my guests prefer this gate to walk because it’s just less than a mile away from our homestay and it takes only 15 mins to walk through a beautiful park to reach the ticket window.
• Avoid the South Gate It’s located near a dodgy market and the touts selling souvenirs are pushy.No Entry from this gate at present. Only Exit is allowed.

9. A Taxi/Car Cannot Take You Very Close to The Taj Mahal.

You will need to either walk for like 10-15 minutes or, if you prefer not to walk, or you want to get on line for the entrance faster, you can take a battery operated vehicle for like 100 INR.

All petrol and diesel vehicles are prohibited near the monument to control pollution and further damage from the carbon mono oxide emissions from these vehicles to the sparkling white marble of the Taj. There is a designated spot before each gate where you will be dropped from where you can walk 600 meters to the entrance or take a ride in an electric golf cart.

10. Taj Mahal Entry Fee

Tickets to enter the Taj Mahal are physically sold at two entry points – the Western and Eastern Gates. There are different ticket price slabs based on the nationality of the traveler. Also, you can buy tickets online at a fixed time slot. This will save you from hassle to stand in a line to buy it. Remember, the time slot can not be changed. So make sure to reach a few minutes earlier to the time printed on your ticket.

• Tourists buying tickets online will get a discount of Rs.5/- for per Indian ticket & Rs. 50/- for per Foreigner ticket.
• No Entry fee for children below the age of 15 years. (both Domestic and Foreigner).

Buying a Taj Mahal Ticket Online

Official Website asi.payumoney.com offers information and ticketing service for Taj Mahal tickets. Both foreign and domestic visitors may use the e-ticket booking for the ASI Taj Mahal and other monuments.

Do not forget to carry necessary government approved ID cards with you when you visit the Taj Mahal. If you are a foreigner, do carry your passport with you at all times. A foreigner ticket should come with a bottle of water and shoe covers to be worn.

At the ticket counters, there is a separate line for foreign and local Indian tourists. There is also a separate line for men and women for the security check as you enter the gates. Again this is not something very clearly flagged so don’t hesitate to ask around if you do not know which line to stand. The security staff present there is quite helpful.

11. What (not) to pack for the Taj Mahal

In an effort to keep the complex safe and clean, there are a number of restrictions in place regarding what visitors are allowed to bring in. Only small bags with the bare essentials are allowed, and prohibited items include:

• Food and drinks (you’ll receive a free bottle of water at the gate)
• Tobacco products
• Electronics such as headphones and chargers (cameras are allowed)
• Laptops (Tablets are allowed)
• No candy, gums, other eatables. Baby food is allowed in small quantities.
• No sharp objects like army knives, nail filers etc.
• Day packs or large bags are not allowed; you can only carry small bags containing essential things.
• No cosmetics – Lipsticks, eye liners etc.

If you are traveling with kids, have them fed well in advance as the trip inside the Taj Mahal will surely take a good 3-4 hours of your time. Many times our bed and breakfast guests forget to leave the non-essential things in their rooms.

As a result they had to go back out of the gate, directed to a little nearby shop which had unofficial “lockers”. This shop will hold your belongings, but will pressure you to buy something when you come back to pick it up.The things in these shops are overpriced knockoffs. You have to pay around Rs. 100 for holding your stuff.

If you do not need a bag, do not bring it. It makes the process slower for your entry. They have a different security procedures for people with bags and it takes longer.

12. How to escape the crowds at the Taj Mahal

If you end up at the Taj Mahal in the middle of the day like most Indians do, be prepared for the crowds. The site may be huge, but with everyone getting mad for the same Instagram photo points it can feel like a zoo. For some strange reason, most visitors tend to stick close to the Taj itself, or along the pools leading up to it.

This means that as soon as you head off towards the gardens to the left or right, it feels like you have the whole place to yourself—that is, if you don’t count the not so friendly monkeys. Just ignore the monkeys while keeping a safe distance. One of our guest had a monkey bite while she was trying to pat a baby monkey for a quick photo.

The Money Shot

To get ‘the money shot’ of the Taj Mahal, you need to join an informal queue by the edge of the pond and place your camera on the ground. This will ensure you get the water and a great shot of the whole building and it will also be straight and without any people in the way. Take as many pictures as you possibly can before the crowd behind you gets to shout at you.

13. Take a Guide or Please Don’t

A guide is highly recommended unless you’ve read a lot about Taj on your own. The most obvious reason is that they will know all the history and related stories about the monument. Plus, they can help you get great pictures as they would know the perfect spots to capture a beautiful shot. The guides here also have good knowledge about all the nearby places like the jewelry and handicraft studios and carpet showrooms, where you can shop for some exclusive souvenirs.

Arrange for a guide beforehand from a registered tour agency or request a guide to be arranged by your hotel/homestay. You will find many people waiting to assist you outside the Taj Mahal too but all are fake guides with fake identity cards saying they are recognized and approved by the Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India. The truth is – No Government guide will ever stand outside any monument because they are too busy working for hotels and travel companies. There are only 50-60 official guides at the Taj Mahal, yet more than 3,000 touts offer their services to tourists, posing as guides and photographers. 

New Scam:   Also, sometimes when you buy tickets at the counter, the official might say to you that just because you have bought a high value foreigner ticket, the government is providing you a free guide along with your ticket. This is all SCAM! There are no free guides just like there are no free lunches. They will ask you a heavy tip in the end or take you to a fake government store to buy overpriced souvenirs.

Guide Charges for Taj Mahal: A half day total tour costs around 1500 INR for a group of 4 adults and it is really worth every rupee as the monument is of historical importance.

14. Beware of the Local “Guides”

There are local touts who will approach foreigners to avail of their guiding services as you are walking towards the gates. Use caution, as they are not licensed by the government, have limited English speaking skills, and offer incorrect information. (We call them Parrots!) Many will not quote the guiding fees up front, leading to haggling and disappointment after the tour. Instead, hire a guide in advance through your hotel/homestay.

15. Photography Tips

Have the correct camera lenses packed and have a few photography angles in mind from which you’d like to take photographs. If you’re staying at our homestay you can go through the many photos displayed or you can check our Instagram feed @hideoutagara for inspiration. Once you’re inside the premises of the Taj Mahal, you may be overwhelmed by the crowds, so you’ll be much more at ease if you have a plan about which angles and poses to do the photography.

16. What to wear for Taj Mahal

Although there is no dress code for visiting Taj Mahal, but if you want to take a hot Instagram picture of yourself in front of the Taj Mahal, bright colors look especially pretty against the white marble. You’ll see Indian women and foreigners wearing brightly colored saris. Anything which is Red/Yellow/Orange/Pink/Blue will give you awesome shots. 

Moods of Taj

An interesting facet of the Taj Mahal is that it changes colors throughout the day. During sunrise, it appears to be pale pink; in the afternoon, it is sparkling white; and in the evenings, it turns a bronzish-orange as the sun sets. In late evenings, the Taj appears to be light-bluish in colour.

On the east side of the structure, there is almost a glow in the early morning hours.

If you think about it, the sun rises in the east so the light in the morning will be coming from that way. Make sure you’re taking that into account when you are trying to figure out shadows and lens flares.

On the west side of the Taj there is a mosque with prayer mats tiled in the ground. From within you can get some interesting pictures of the Taj as long as you are patient enough for people to move. 

17. Spot the optical illusions

As you approach the main gate, the Taj Mahal appears to be unbelievably large and close. But as you move closer, it gets smaller and smaller in size, taking you by surprise.  And the minarets that appear to be standing perfectly upright are in fact leaning outward, lending an astounding artistic balance.

18. The Best Photo Spots Inside Taj Mahal

First, there is the shot  in front of the reflection pool . As soon as you enter the Taj Mahal, don’t stop at the main entrance or archway.  Instead, make your way to the reflection pool, passing by the raised platform with the benches. Many people will also stop there to take a picture on the bench that was made famous by the late Princess Diana. At the end of the platform you will see the start of the reflection pool and this is where you will want to get that perfect shot of the Taj Mahal.  

The next main photography spot is through the  archways of one of the sandstone buildings  on the right or left of the Taj. If you are there for sunrise be sure to go to the left first. This is where you will be able to capture that perfect morning glow as the sun begins to rise.  

If you are traveling as a couple you have two options to get a photo together: Either hire a guide who you can have take your picture or ask a stranger to do it.

A Better “Princess Diana” shot

If you do need to get that Princess Diana shot, skip the bench near the front gate and walk all the way around to the far back. Just outside the  jamat khana  (the building on the right), you’ll see a single bench. Trust me, hardly anyone will be there. You’ll know you’re in the right place when the river is on your right, and the Taj right in front of you. If you have a wide-angle lens, the sky will perfectly wrap around the Taj like a canopy.

19. How to get best pictures of Taj Mahal

If you’re looking for the perfect photo, it seems all the best come from across the river. If you have time, take a tuk tuk across the river to the Mehtab Bagh (which translated is “The Moonlight Garden”). If you don’t want to pay the entrance fee of this garden (Rs. 300), just next to the Moonlight Garden there is a road with a pretty decent view of the Taj Mahal too. Most of the tuk tuk drivers knew where it is and they will happily take you there for the perfect backside shot.

20. Feel Like A Celebrity

If you are a Westerner, in particular a fair skinned blonde one, you will be asked (sometimes harassed), for a photo. By men, by women, by families, by children.

Similar to pretty much all over India, people will want to take photos/selfies with you, especially as a solo female traveler. For the locals, it’s a once in a lifetime chance to have a photo with a white woman. Whether you grant their wish or not, it’s up to you.

21. Is the Taj Mahal Disable Friendly?

Yes, the Taj Mahal is disabled-friendly with wooden ramps provided near the entrance, the security checkpoint and when you pass through the Southern Gate.

The only regrettable side to visiting the Taj Mahal is that there is no ramp built to access the main mausoleum for wheelchair-bound visitors.

22. Do visit Taj Museum

The origin of the Taj Museum dates back to 1906, it was created under the orders of Lord Curzon, the British Viceroy to India.

It houses interesting artifacts from the Mughal era like calligraphy specimens, utensils used in everyday life, plans and drawings of the Taj Mahal. The main hall has paintings made by Shah Jahan and his wife, Mumtaz Mahal on ivory framed in ornamental wooden frames.

The entry to the museum is free and is open from 9 am to 5 pm on all days except Fridays. There is no queue to enter, you can just walk in. There is no necessity for a ticket as it is inside the monument.

23. The Toilets

There are toilets inside the Taj complex but for Indian visitors, it is a paid service. We didn’t mind paying extra since the restrooms were kept very clean. Just remember to carry some change with you to pay the guard. For foreign visitors, the use of the facility is included in their tickets.

24. What is there to do in Agra besides the Taj Mahal?

There are some interesting things to see in Agra other than the Taj Mahal. Do have a look at my other Agra guides:

• Best Experiences in Agra Beyond Taj Mahal
• Off Beat Agra: Go Beyond Taj Mahal

25. Skip The Line Entrance

There is NO official skip the line arrangement that works inside Taj Mahal. Whether you are a local or foreigner you have to go through the same security arrangements and same entry way. However, if you have a local guide with you, he can surely expedite the whole process from getting the tickets quickly (without standing in the long line) or putting you in-front of other travelers because of his personal connections with the security staff present there. Thus you can call it Skip The Line entrance.

These were the complete Insider Tips as Guide to visiting Taj Mahal I give to my guests staying at our Bed & Breakfast Homestay .

Agra Travel Guide – The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Agra Travel

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18 tips for visiting the Taj Mahal

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Described by Bengali poet Rabindranath Tagore as “a teardrop on the face of eternity”, the Taj Mahal is undoubtedly the zenith of Mughal architecture. Volumes have been written on its perfection, and its image adorns countless glossy brochures and guidebooks; nonetheless, reality never fails to overwhelm you as soon as you step through the gates. To get the most out of the ancient site, follow these tips.

1. Learn about Taj Mahal history

Though its layout follows a distinctly Islamic theme, representing Paradise, it is above all a monument to romantic love. Shah Jahan built the Taj to enshrine the body of his favourite wife, Arjumand Bann Begum, better known by her official palace title, Mumtaz Mahal (“Chosen One of the Palace”). She died shortly after giving birth to her fourteenth child in 1631.

The emperor was devastated by her death, and set out to create an unsurpassed monument to her memory – its name, “Taj Mahal”, is an informal version of Mumtaz Mahal.

Taj Mahal seen from Agra © Shutterstock

2. Choose the best time to visit Taj Majal

The best time to visit the Taj Mahal is during the winter months, from October to March. The weather during this period is pleasant with mild temperatures.

During winter, average temperatures range from around 8°C to 25°C (46°F to 77°F), providing a comfortable environment for sightseeing. The days are usually sunny and clear, allowing for excellent visibility of the Taj Mahal's stunning architecture.

Winter also coincides with various festivals and events in Agra like Taj Mahotsav, a ten-day cultural extravaganza that takes place in February and showcases traditional arts, crafts, music, and dance performances.

It's best to avoid visiting the Taj Mahal during the summer months (April to June) as temperatures can soar to extreme levels, often exceeding 40°C (104°F). The scorching heat and high humidity can make sightseeing uncomfortable.

During the monsoon season (July to September), Agra experiences heavy rainfall. While the city and the Taj Mahal can have a unique charm during this time, the downpours can disrupt outdoor activities, and the monument may be partially covered for preservation purposes.

Learn more about best time to visit India .

Yamuna river and Taj Mahal © Shutterstock

3. Get the sunset views of Taj Mahal...

The Taj is at its most alluring in the relative quiet of early morning, shrouded in mist and bathed with a soft red glow. Few words can do it justice. The towering minarets and magnificent dome evoke awe and reverence as the sun bounces off its walls. It is also advisable to arrive early in the morning - an hour before the sunrise open - to avoid crowds and long queues.

As its vast marble surfaces fall into shadow or reflect the sun, its colour changes from soft grey and yellow to pearly cream and dazzling white. This play of light is an important decorative device, symbolically implying the presence of Allah, who is never represented in physical form. To really appreciate it fully, you’d have to stick around from dawn until dusk.

Purchase your entrance tickets in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles. This will give you enough time to pass through the security checks and find a prime spot to witness the sunrise.

4. ...or see it by moonlight

It’s possible to see the Taj by moonlight on the night of the full moon itself and on the two days before and after.

Four hundred visitors are admitted per night (in batches of fifty between 8pm and midnight, but not on Fridays or during Ramadan).

Tickets (₹750 [₹510]) have to be purchased a day in advance from the ASI office, 22 The Mall. If a viewing is cancelled, you get a refund.

5. Check the opening hours

The Taj Mahal is open daily except on Fridays, when it is closed for prayers. The gates open at sunrise and close at sunset.

6. Buy the tickets at the south gate (or online)

Normal entrance to the Taj Mahal costs ₹1300 (₹250 Indians – ₹50 without access to the main mausoleum – and ₹740 SAARC nationals). Children below 15 years go for free.

Tickets are valid for one entrance and a maximum stay of three hours. It also gives tax-free entry to other sites if used on the same day, giving ₹50 off the admission fee at Agra Fort, and ₹10 off at Sikandra, Itimad-ud-Daulah and Fatehpur Sikri.

Ticket queues are longest at the west gate and shortest at the south gate. The east gate ticket office is 500m down the road, by the Shilpgram crafts village.

7. Understand the entry rules, security checkpoints and bag restrictions

You are not allowed to enter with food (and none is available inside). Foreigners are given a free bottle of water and a pair of shoe covers on entry.

To ensure the safety of visitors and the preservation of the monument, there are security checkpoints at the entrances. It is recommended to carry minimal belongings to expedite the security process. Expect to go through a metal detector and have your bags checked.

Large bags and backpacks are not allowed inside the Taj Mahal complex at all - it is best to carry a small bag or purse to hold essential items like your wallet, phone, camera, and water bottle. If you have larger bags or luggage, you may need to store them in the designated cloakroom facilities located near the entrance gates.

It's always a good idea to check the latest regulations beforehand to avoid any inconvenience.

8. Dress respectfully

Wear modest attire that covers your shoulders, chest, and legs. Both men and women should avoid wearing sleeveless tops, tank tops, or revealing clothing.

The Taj Mahal is considered a place of cultural and historical significance in India , and adhering to appropriate dress code guidelines shows respect for the site and its traditions.

You will need to wear your shoe covers to enter the Taj itself.

9. Learn how to get to the Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal is located in Uttar Pradesh , about 4 hours north of Delhi . This is the most populated state in India. That means there are a lot of options to get there.

Agra Airport, also known as Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport, is the nearest airport to the Taj Mahal.

The nearest major international airport is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi.

Agra is well-connected by train to major cities in India. The main railway station is Agra Cantt Railway Station, which is served by numerous trains from different parts of the country.

Several trains, including superfast and express trains, operate between Agra and major cities like Delhi, Jaipur , Mumbai , and Kolkata .

Agra has a well-developed road network, and you can reach the city by bus from various nearby destinations.

The Idgah Bus Stand in Agra is the main bus terminal, and it operates both state-run and private buses.

Taj Mahal garden © Shutterstock

10. Hire a local guide for a more enriching experience

Hiring a local guide at the Taj Mahal enhances your experience, providing historical and cultural insights. They can bring the monument to life with in-depth information on its architecture, construction, and symbolism.

This can be especially helpful as you cannot take a guidebook inside the site.

Do note, though, that some guides may try to take you to see either the local stonemasons or carpet makers nearby following your visit. This is usually to buy something, so feel free to politely and firmly decline.

Check our list of India travel experts .

Aerial view of Taj Mahal complex © Shutterstock

11. Explore the whole Taj Mahal Complex

The Taj Mahal complex divides into few sections covered below.

Take in the Chowk-i-Jilo Khana

The south, east and west entrances all lead into the Chowk-i-Jilo Khana forecourt.

The main entrance into the complex, an arched gateway topped with delicate domes and adorned with Koranic verses and inlaid floral designs, stands at the northern edge of Chowk-i-Jilo Khana, directly aligned with the Taj, but shielding it from the view of those who wait outside.

Check the charbagh

Once through the gateway from the Chowk-i-Jilo Khana, you’ll see the Taj itself at the end of the huge charbagh (literally “four gardens”).

Dissected into four quadrants by waterways (usually dry), it evokes the Koranic description of Paradise, where rivers flow with water, milk, wine and honey.

Introduced by Babur from Central Asia, charbaghs remained fashionable throughout the Mughal era.

Unlike other Mughal mausoleums such as Akbar’s and Humayun’s, the Taj isn’t at the centre of the charbagh, but at the northern end, presumably to exploit its riverside setting.

At the far end of the charbagh, steps lead up to the high-square marble platform on which the mausoleum itself sits, each corner marked by a tall, tapering minaret.

To the west of the tomb is a domed red-sandstone mosque and to the east a replica jawab, put there to complete the architectural symmetry of the complex – it cannot be used as a mosque as it faces away from Mecca.

The Taj is essentially square in shape, with pointed arches cut into its sides and topped with a huge central dome that rises for over 55m, its height accentuated by a crowning brass spire almost 17m high.

On approach, the tomb looms ever larger and grander, but not until you are close do you appreciate both its sheer size and the extraordinarily fine detail of relief carving, highlighted by floral patterns of precious stones.

Arabic verses praising the glory of Paradise fringe the archways, proportioned exactly so that each letter appears to be the same size when viewed from the ground.

Take in the museum

The Taj’s museum, in the enclosure’s western wall, features exquisite miniature paintings, two marble pillars believed to have come from the fort and portraits of Mughal rulers including Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal.

Also of interest are its architectural drawings of the Taj and examples of pietra dura stone inlay work.

Admiring the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh park in Agra © Shutterstock

12. Examine the Taj Mahal's exterior

The south face of the tomb is the main entrance to the interior: a high octagonal chamber whose weirdly echoing interior is flushed with pale light.

A marble screen, decorated with precious stones and cut so finely that it seems almost translucent, protects the cenotaph of Mumtaz Mahal in the centre.

It is perfectly aligned with the doorway and the distant gateway into the Chowk-i-Jilo Khana, and that of Shah Jahan crammed in next to it – the only object which breaks the perfect symmetry of the entire complex.

The inlay work on the marble tombs is the finest in Agra, and no pains were spared in perfecting it – some of the petals and leaves are made of up to sixty separate stone fragments.

Ninety-nine names of Allah adorn the top of Mumtaz’s tomb, and set into Shah Jahan’s is a pen box, the hallmark of a male ruler.

These cenotaphs, in accordance with Mughal tradition, are only representations of the real coffins, which lie in the same positions in a crypt below.

13. Understand the architectural marvels and symbolism

The Taj Mahal is a remarkable example of Mughal architecture, showcasing a fusion of Persian, Islamic, and Indian styles. It is renowned for its perfect blend of various architectural elements, such as domes, arches, minarets, and intricate ornamentation.

The entire complex, including the gardens, reflecting pool, and main mausoleum, is symmetrically aligned along a central axis, creating a visually stunning sight. One of the most striking features of the Taj Mahal is its central dome, a large white marble structure with a pinnacle called the Kalash at its top.

This dome represents the celestial dome and symbolizes a heavenly abode. The four minarets standing at the corners of the Taj Mahal serve not only as decorative elements but also fulfill a functional purpose by providing support and stability to the main structure, particularly during earthquakes.

Additionally, they contribute to the monument's elegance and verticality. The Taj Mahal is adorned with intricate calligraphy and ornamentation, with Quranic verses beautifully inscribed on entrance arches and throughout the complex.

Floral motifs, geometric patterns, and delicate inlay work using semi-precious stones further enhance the marble surfaces, adding intricate details to the overall magnificence of the monument.s.

Unique architectural details of Taj Mahal © Shutterstock

14. Visit the mausoleum

Entry to the actual mausoleum of the Taj Mahal is limited to a specific number of visitors at a time to ensure preservation and safety.

Visitors are typically allowed to enter in small groups, and a separate ticket or pass may be required in addition to the general admission ticket.

Before entering the mausoleum, you will be required to remove your footwear as a mark of respect.

Shoe covers may be provided to protect the marble floors and maintain cleanliness.

It's advisable to wear socks or carry a pair of clean socks with you for comfort.

Inside the mausoleum, there is a central chamber that houses the tombs of Emperor Shah Jahan and his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.

However, the actual graves are located at a lower level and are not accessible to the public. Visitors can view the replicas of the tombs from a distance.

15. Avoid the crowds

Majority of the people visit the Taj Mahal on weekends, so try and visit during the week.

Choosing to visit during the off-peak season, which is generally from April to September, can also mean reduced crowds.

Try and book your tickets online ahead of your visit and arrive at the south gate, which has the shortest queues.

Also consider exploring other areas of the Taj Mahal complex, such as the gardens and surrounding structures, before entering the main mausoleum.

Taj Mahal overcrowded © Shutterstock

16. Check how to capture the best photos and angles

Consider visiting during the golden hours, which are shortly after sunrise or before sunset when the soft, warm light enhances the Taj Mahal's beauty. Avoid midday when the harsh sunlight can create strong shadows.

Be aware that the Taj Mahal attracts a large number of visitors, and it may take time to find the right moments and angles for your photographs. Be patient, wait for crowds to disperse, and be respectful of others' experiences while capturing your shots.

Best view points

The Taj Mahal is renowned for its symmetrical design and this mirrored effect can create powerful and visually appealing images.

It is rich in intricate details and craftsmanship and the Diana Bench – located on the southern side – is a popular spot for photographers. This is where Princess Diana famously had her photo taken but it’s a great spot for getting in the entire dome.

The raised platforms along the reflecting pool also offer excellent viewpoints.

Sunrise views of the Taj Mahal

For sunrise photos, find out the exact time of sunrise on the day of your visit and plan to arrive at least an hour before that. This will allow you to secure a good spot and witness the gradual transformation of light.

The Eastern Gate entrance is the recommended entry point for sunrise visits as it opens early specifically for this purpose. This gate provides direct access to the main mausoleum area and ensures a shorter walk to the prime viewing spots.

17. Explore nearby attractions: Agra Fort, Mehtab Bagh, and other noteworthy sites

Located just a short distance from the Taj Mahal is Agra Fort.

The high red-sandstone ramparts of this fabulous fort dominates a bend in the Yamuna River 2km northwest of the Taj Mahal.

Akbar laid the foundations of this majestic citadel, built between 1565 and 1573 in the form of a half-moon, on the remains of earlier Rajput fortifications.

The structure developed as the seat and stronghold of the Mughal Empire for successive generations: Akbar commissioned the walls and gates, his grandson, Shah Jahan, had most of the principal buildings erected, and Aurangzeb, the last great emperor, was responsible for the ramparts.

The curved sandstone bastions reach a height of over 20m and stretch for around two and a half kilometres, punctuated by a sequence of massive gates (although only the Amar Singh Pol is currently open to visitors).

Agra Fort, India © Shutterstock

Mehtab Bagh (the moonlight garden)

Situated across the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal, Mehtab Bagh is a beautiful garden complex known as the Moonlight Garden.

It is an excellent spot for photographers, especially during sunset as the Taj Mahal glows in the evening light.

Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb

Also nearby is Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb, often referred to as the Baby Taj.

Built in the 17th century, This splendid mausoleum showcases exquisite marble inlay work and it is considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal.

The tomb is set in beautiful gardens and provides a serene and less crowded experience compared to the Taj Mahal.

18. Check out the best places to stay around Tah Mahal

From flea-ridden ratholes to royal suites with Taj Mahal views, Agra has no shortage of places to stay . Here’s where to sleep.

One of the best areas is Taj Ganj, located right next to the Taj Mahal itself. It is the closest area where you can stay , and it provides a range of hotels, guesthouses, and budget accommodations.

Fatehabad Road

A short distance away from the Taj Mahal, Fatehabad Road is renowned for its upscale hotels and luxury resorts, many offering Taj Mahal views from their rooms or rooftop restaurants.

Sadar Bazaar

Located approximately 3 km from the Taj Mahal, Sadar Bazaar offers a range of budget accommodations, including hostels.

Find out the best ways to get to India .

Tips for visiting Taj Mahal - summary

Allocate enough time in your itinerary to fully explore the Taj Mahal.

Your ticket allows you to be onsite for up to three hours but there is much to see and appreciate.

Engaging a knowledgeable local guide can greatly enhance your understanding and appreciation of the Taj Mahal.

They can provide valuable insights and highlight important architectural and historical details that you might otherwise miss.

Consider visiting the Taj Mahal during sunrise or sunset for the best angles.

These times of the day offer breathtaking lighting conditions and a serene ambiance, adding a magical touch to your experience.

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Best Times to Visit the Taj Mahal? Expert Tips in 2024

There are three seasons in Agra , home to the Taj Mahal: the hot season (April to June), the rainy season (July to September), and the (mild) dry season (October to March).

October to March is the best time period to visit the Taj Mahal weather-wise, when temperatures average from 15 to 27°C (59–81°F). It perfectly avoids the rains and summer heat, and allows you to fully immerse yourself in a dreamy visit.

March, October, and November are ideal for photography, with cool weather, clear skies, and fewer crowds (in contrast to December to February's colder, foggier, and busier months).

If you seek a time with the fewest tourist numbers , visit the Taj Mahal from April to September (in the low season), and avoid weekends and public holidays .

During the day, sunrise is undoubtedly the best time for the most favorable lighting, low crowding, and avoidance of extreme heat.

Quick Facts on Visiting the Taj Mahal

• Tips for Different Seasons
• Best Times to to Avoid Crowds
• Best Times of Day to Visit the Taj Mahal
• The Taj Mahal on Full Moon Nights

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

• The Taj Mahal opens from sunrise (around 6 a.m.) to sunset (around 6:30 p.m.) every day except Fridays . The opening hours may change seasonally, so double check with us before going.
• You're suggested to stay at least 3 hours to take plenty of awesome photos and admire its beauty leisurely.
• There are three gates in the Taj Mahal: the Western Gate, Eastern Gate, and Southern Gate. Entry is not allowed at the Southern Gate .
• From the parking lot of the Taj Mahal, you would get to a gateway by a battery-powered golf cart .
• Children below the age of 15 years enjoy free entry to the Taj Mahal.

Tips for Visiting the Taj Mahal in Different Seasons

Visiting taj mahal in the hot season (april to june).

If you can put up with the extreme heat around 40°C (106°F), the rewards will include appreciating the Taj at lowest visitor numbers and prices.

1. Visiting at sunrise:

You can choose a heritage hotel near the Taj for more convenient visit and visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise to avoid the daytime heat.

2. What to Pack:

Bring sunglasses, sun cream, and a hat to protect you from the strong sunlight. Fast-drying T-shirts are more comfortable for the hot days.

Visiting the Taj Mahal in the Rainy Season (July to September)

Daily top temperatures drop to around 34°C (93°F) thanks to the monsoon rains. The Taj Mahal receives its heaviest rainfall in July and August and the monsoon rains end in September .

Visiting in rainy season, you're likely to have the Taj yourself. When it rains during your visit, you might see the magical Taj Mahal with rain and sun at the same time, or you could choose to spend more time inside the Taj .

1. Check the weather forecast:

The rainfall rarely lasts for more than 2 or 3 days at a time. You can check the forecast for the predicted rainfall timings one day before, so that you can plan to avoid the rainfall as much as possible.

2. Have a flexible itinerary:

If you're willing to brave the high rainfall months , you should have a flexible itinerary to make the most of gaps between cloudbursts for outdoor activities.

3. What to Pack:

Pack sun protection and waterproofs, as there may be no way to get around visiting the Taj when it is raining if it rains solidly for the 3 days of your visit.

Visiting the Taj Mahal in the Dry Season (October to March)

The most pleasant weather usually brings the biggest crowds.

1. Make reservations at least 3 months in advance:

If you're planning to visit during this period, booking at least 3 months before is necessary to guarantee rooms, tickets and guides will be available. Contact us to enjoy worry-free booking: You enjoy 100% refund of any payments made to China Highlights prior to 3 weeks before departure ( detail⇒ ). Check India tours for inspiration >>>

2. Visiting at Sunrise:

During your visit, you're suggested to visit the Taj at sunrise before most tourists flood in.

When foggy days come in December and January, you'd better visit after 10 a.m. for better photos.

3. What to pack:

A dress or a t-shirt with shorts are good options to wear during the day. In the evenings, jackets, coats, and sweaters are needed, particularly in India's winter (Dec.–Feb.).

If you want any further weather info, check its monthly weather . Taj Mahal is the top highlight in Agra. For more extensions, you can see sample itineraries of agra tour.

Best Times to Visit the Taj Mahal to Avoid Crowds

1. Visit in Low Season

During the low travel season (April to September), you're expected to meet the smallest crowds and benefit from big promotions (30–50% off) from hotels and airlines. The only drawback is the unpleasant heat from April to June and the high rainfall from July to September.

2. Visit on Weekdays and Avoid Holidays

Apart from visiting in the low travel season, avoiding public holidays and weekends is useful to beat the crowds. Diwali, Holi, Eid, and Christmas always make the Taj Mahal busier than usual. Check out the exact dates of India Holidays in 2024/2025 .

3. Visit in Early Morning

If travelling in high season , you're suggested to visit the Taj at sunrise (around 5:30 a.m.) for less crowding.

Also, pre-book your tickets to avoid waiting around. And an experienced guide would help you get your tickets quickly, enter the marvelous Taj smoothly, and suggest the best spots to visit with less crowding . We can help with this. Contact us.

Best Times of Day to Visit the Taj Mahal: Sunrise, Sunset

Shutterbugs are always big on sunrises and sunsets . Skies are full of colors during these periods. They benefit from the soft light and vibrant sky changes. At the Taj Mahal, sunrise is better than sunset, as there are less visitors .

At sunrise, you could appreciate the dramatic color changes on the marbles of the Taj and get incredible photos. The earlier you get your tickets, the more likely you are to have the Taj Mahal to yourself, especially during the off season (April to June).

Sunset is another good time to see the picturesque Taj, but you would have to endure the crowds close to the Taj. If you don't want to miss sunrise and sunset with the Taj, we suggest you head to the Mehtab Bagh for a distant sunset view in relative peace upon your arrival, and then have an up-close view of the Taj the next early morning.

The Taj Mahal on Full Moon Nights: Not Advised

The Taj Mahal is typically open for 5 nights a month during the full moon phase. However, a moonlight visit is not suitable for a photography tour, because video cameras are not allowed inside the monument during this time.

As per most reviews, a night visit is not as enjoyable or worth the money. Paying 1.5 times the daytime price, you just get 30 minutes to see the shadowy Taj from the gateway (quite a long distance away).

If you would like a night view (that is just as good), booking a hotel with Taj Mahal views or going to the Mehtab Bagh is much better value. For more details, see The Taj Mahal at Night: Full Moon Night Visits, Places for Night Views

Read more on How to Plan a Trip to India (Expert Advice ) or tell us your interests , and we'd be glad to find the perfect timings and activities for you. India Private Tour Packages for inspiration >>>

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Tips for visiting the Taj Mahal: your complete guide

You don’t want to mess this one up, right? Read on for all my tips for visiting the Taj Mahal to ensure you have a truly unforgettable experience…

Last updated 10/04/2023

Looking for some tips for visiting the Taj Mahal? Come on in…

If you’re visiting India then one of the most exciting moments on your trip is when you come face to face with the Taj Mahal for the first time. It’s not every day of the week you get to encounter one of the seven wonders of the world, right? Because of that, though, the pressure is on.

You don’t just want to see the Taj Mahal, you want to see it right . You want to have an unforgettable experience that you can look back on for the rest of your life. This is where I come in…

Visiting the Taj Mahal: my experience

I travelled to the Taj Mahal as part of a group travel tour in 2020. What this meant is that I didn’t have to make a lot of the logistical decisions myself. Our amazing group leader Sana took care of all that.

But whoa, did she have all the amazing tips for visiting the Taj Mahal properly. And that’s what I’m sharing with you in this blog.

There was none of this rocking up in the middle of the day or with a backpack full of stuff that would never get past the security checks. But I’m getting ahead of myself – more on that later.

Making your visit memorable

If you’d like to find out how you can have a truly unforgettable experience then keep reading for my tips for visiting the Taj Mahal, such as:

• What time of day you should visit
• What gate to go to
• What to wear (and what not to wear)
• What day you shouldn’t visit on
• Where you can get coffee before dawn

And much more. I’ve got you covered.

I’ll also talk about what else we did in Agra during our visit – including an amazing rooftop restaurant where we had dinner. Stay tuned for that!

But first up, let’s dive into some detail about the Taj Mahal…

The Taj Mahal love story

Behind the grandeur of the Taj Mahal is a big beating heart – and a really rather touching love story . If we’re talking big, swooning, romantic gestures, this one really blows it out the water. However, it’s also firmly marked by tragedy. Let’s find out more…

The Taj Mahal was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to honour his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died giving birth to their 14 th child.

They had first met many years earlier when he spotted her selling silks at the marketplace outside the royal complex. He quickly fell in love at first sight and made her his third wife.

When she died, he was devastated. He plunged the imperial court into two years of mourning which – to use a word from this century – was entirely unprecedented. He turned his attention to honouring her memory, and brought together the very best artisans from all over the Muslim world in order to design a monument unlike any other in the world.

According to the Huffington Post , Jahan wanted to ensure that there was nothing to rival the palace. And so he took matters into his own hands.

“To ensure that no other living structure would ever rival the beauty of the Taj Mahal, Shah Jahan made an agreement with the building’s artists. In exchange for a hefty payment, they would not create any more art or design in their lifetime.”

He was so careful to ensure the memory of his great love would last for generations, which seems like an act of love in itself, and just shows how close it was to his heart. The Taj was famously described as “a teardrop on the cheek of time” by Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore, and I think this really sums up the raw emotion and the timeless quality of the palace.

One last thing. Why is it called the Taj Mahal then, you may be wondering? Well, Taj was the nickname given to Mumtaz Mahal by her husband. When translated, the Taj Mahal means “crown palace”.

The construction of the Taj Mahal

Here are my favourite Taj Mahal facts on the actual build of the palace…

How old is the Taj Mahal?

The Taj Mahal was commissioned in 1632, making in 390 years old.

How many workers built the Taj Mahal?

More than 20,000 workers built the Taj Mahal. They came from India, Persia, Europe and the Ottoman Empire to build the palace. 1000 elephants were also utilised in building the Taj Mahal.

How long did it take to build the Taj Mahal?

It took 16 years to build the Taj Mahal. Construction began on the main building in 1632 and it was completed in 1648. However, work on other parts of the complex continued for another few years. The project was finally wrapped in 1653.

How much did it cost to build the Taj Mahal?

The cost of building the Taj Mahal is reported to be 32 million rupees. In today’s money, that would be roughly 70 billion rupees – $956 million dollars. No expense spared then!

Who owns the Taj Mahal?

Note to self. Don’t google this question, see a headline that reads: Donald Trump owns the Taj Mahal and promptly lose your mind.

Mercifully the Taj Mahal referred to in the aforementioned headline is actually a glitzy casino in the States somewhere, rather than the real deal.

Now you know the story of the Taj Mahal – let’s head into logistics. T

That’s more exciting than it sounds, I promise!

My tips for visiting the Taj Mahal

How to get to the taj mahal.

The easiest way to get to Agra from Delhi is to get a train. There are numerous trains you can catch to Agra from Delhi. The journey is only around two hours in total. We travelled to Agra from Varanasi on the overnight train (which is always an experience) and arrived first thing in the AM. We visited the Taj Mahal the following morning.

When to visit the Taj Mahal

You might be wondering when the best time to visit the Taj Mahal is.

Is there a better month, day or even hour? Are some days not suitable? I’m gonna try and answer some of these questions over the next few paragraphs. Let’s hop to it…

What time of year is best to visit the Taj Mahal

If you’re travelling to Taj Mahal what time of year you visit is an important consideration. Most of us will only make the trip once, or twice if we’re lucky, so you want to make sure you get the most out of the experience as you can, right?

With that in mind, the verdict on the best time of year to visit the Taj Mahal is: between October to March.

Visiting the Taj Mahal between October and March

It’s during this time of year that it’s slightly cooler. That’s in comparison to the summer months when it gets incredibly (and possibly unbearably) hot. I visited the Taj Mahal in mid-February and it was great.

It was cool in the morning before sunrise but it was pleasant as we were wandering around, and only started to get really hot by the time we left mid-morning.

But we were off to sit in an air-conditioned bus for four hours on the next leg of our trip, so it was all good!

Call me biased, but if you’re not sure when is a good time to go then I would certainly recommend mid-February as one of my tips for visiting the Taj Mahal. It worked for me!

What are the Taj Mahal opening hours?

Let’s talk about the Taj Mahal opening and closing times.

The Taj Mahal is open from sunrise to sunset – so that’s 6am until 7pm.

That’s except for one day of the week when it’s closed, which I’ll talk about next. Those aren’t the only Taj Mahal opening hours you should know about though. Because just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, there’s actually a moonlight viewing at the Taj Mahal too.

Taj Mahal moonlight viewing

That’s right. There’s a Taj Mahal night viewing every full moon from 8:30pm to 12:30am, plus two days after and before the full moon, so for five days in total. How cool is that?!

I don’t know about you but I’m not too up to speed on full moons. But if you want to check whether a full moon ties in with your trip to the Taj Mahal then you can check using this handy website !

I bet seeing the Taj in the moonlight would be an incredible experience!

Which day is the Taj Mahal closed?

If we’re talking tips for visiting the Taj Mahal this is probably one of the most important!

You might have heard some chatter about the Taj Mahal not being open one day of the week. Well, you’re right to check, because the answer to the question ‘Is the Taj Mahal open on a Friday’ is… no.

The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays . Definitely don’t rock up at the palace all bright-eyed and bushy-tailed on that particular day because you won’t get in. The next question is of course: why?

Why is the Taj Mahal closed on Fridays? Well, it’s closed so that local Muslim people can come to the palace and pray.

What is the best time of day to visit the Taj Mahal?

Now onto the best time of day to visit Taj Mahal. As I mentioned, when I visited we went at sunrise. For me, that was a perfect experience.

The light in the morning casts everything in this beautiful soft blur where nothing is too defined or harsh. The palace itself looks almost like a ghostly apparition that could just fade into the sky at any moment.

From a more practical perspective, I’ve heard people say that if you go at dawn you’ll beat the crowds and get the palace to yourself. Unfortunately, this is not the case, certainly not when I visited.

The queue was snaking back for hundreds of metres by the time we got in and none of the photos I took could avoid including hundreds other tourists all jostling for their perfect photograph with the Taj Mahal.

So I don’t buy that for a second. It’s one of the seven wonders of the world, I reckon it’s ALWAYS going to be busy!

Tips for visiting the Taj Mahal at different times of day

The taj mahal at sunrise.

I would recommend visiting the Taj Mahal at sunrise for sure. It’s all soft, pastel hues with an almost mystical quality to it. I actually found out later that the fuzziness of the light in the morning is actually caused by pollution and smog, which isn’t so great.

However, the fact remains: sunrise equals incredible photographs of the palace before the light gets too bright and ‘hard’, if that makes sense. If you can get yourself out of bed, it’s so worth it.

The Taj Mahal during the day

Maybe you slept in or you simply can’t get to the Taj Mahal any earlier than the middle of the day. Visiting the Taj Mahal during the day isn’t a total disaster or anything. It’s the Taj Mahal, it’s always going to look beautiful.

The only thing to be mindful of is that the heat will probably be pretty stifling. You might not have the stamina that you would have when it’s cooler in the morning.

If you can delay, then getting yourself in the right spot to watch the sunset at the Taj Mahal could be a really magical experience…

The Taj Mahal at sunset

If you want drama then the Taj Mahal at sunset is a great option. Just picture a yellow-gold sky with the palace all lit up with shades of red and burnt orange like it’s cast in firelight or something… it’s a beautiful thing. I would love to come back and see the Taj at sunset.

The Taj Mahal at night

As I mentioned, the Taj Mahal is open to nighttime viewings five days a month, around the time of a full moon. I really can’t think of anything more magical. I’m just imagining the marble of the palace all lit up by the light of the moon, the stars glittering in the sky above… it just sounds wonderful.

Obviously, I’ve not done it myself and can only go on pictures on Instagram (#tajmahalatnight if you’d like to browse yourself) but it really does just look like an incredible experience.

If you do have time to do this, please do – and send pics!

What is the best gate for entering the Taj Mahal?

There are three gates to the Taj Mahal. It’s worth reading up on each of them so you don’t come up against any surprises when you’re racing to get there in the AM!

As I mentioned at the top, I travelled to the Taj Mahal as part of a group travel tour so my decision-making in what gate we chose was completely non-existent. I was merely a passenger who pretty much went where I was told. Our tour guide Sana picked the gate, and for us it was the East Gate.

Pssst… you can read more about my group travel tour or my adventures in India right here .

Taj Mahal – East Gate

The East Gate is closest to most of the hostels/hotels in Agra. Chances are this is the best bet for you. It’s also reported that this gate is less crowded.

It was definitely busy when we were there (although you kind of lose perspective on busy in India) but we didn’t have to queue too long to get in and it all seemed to move fairly quickly.

What else can I tell you about the East Gate? Well, there are coffee shops nearby that are open (!) even before dawn. We all enjoyed a lovely hot coffee as we waited in the queue. It was just what the doctor ordered – it warmed us up and woke us up!

So on that basis alone I would definitely recommend the East Gate, it’s a pretty good all-rounder.

Taj Mahal – West Gate

I’ve heard that there are longer queues at the West Gate and it’s also further away from where most tourists will be arriving from, but as I wasn’t there myself I can’t confirm that!

Ta Mahal – South Gate

Well, apparently the South Gate doesn’t open until 8am and so that makes it entirely redundant if you want to see the Taj Mahal at sunrise. It’s also currently closed for entry so this one is pretty much a non-starter – you can rule the South Gate out!

How much is the entry fee for the Taj Mahal?

For tourists the entry price for the Taj Mahl is 1100 rupees

You buy your tickets online here

What is included in the price of your ticket to the Taj Mahal?

• Shoe covers
• Water bottle
• Tourist guide map of Agra
• Battery bus
• Golf cart services

If you want to visit the mausoleum complex at the Taj Mahal (ie go inside the palace) you will have to buy an additional ticket, which will cost an additional 200 rupees.

What happens once you get through the gate?

Next, you’ll need to go through security. As per many of the attractions in India, men and women have separate queues to go through. Your bags will go through a scanner and you’ll have to step through a body scanner, just like at the airport. As long as you don’t bleep you shouldn’t be too long here.

I’ve included more details on what items you should and shouldn’t bring to the Taj Mahal below!

General advice for visiting the Taj Mahal

Go as early as possible.

One of the most important tips for visiting the Taj Mahal is to set that alarm clock!

We’ve covered most of this already but I wanted to hammer home the point about getting there early. Ideally, you want to be in the queue when it’s still dark, before sunrise, and before the gates are open. If the sun is high in the sky by the time you’re in the queue you’re already too late.

I keep banging on about it, but it’s all about the light. When the sun is just rising in the sky it bathes the palace in this soft and ethereal light which just adds to the magic of the experience.

I remember seeing people entering just as we were leaving and by that time the sun was properly up and the ethereal morning light was long gone. It was also starting to get really hot, which isn’t really conducive to being a diligent tourist, right? If you can’t go early then go late – sunset is also a great opportunity for great photographs.

Don’t pack anything you don’t need

When I say pack light I really mean pack light.

Don’t bring anything you don’t need. Large rucksacks and bags are not allowed, but that’s just for starters. I was so happy we had our Intrepid tour guide Sana with us at this point. She gave us a really clear brief on how stringent the security is at the Taj Mahal.

She briefed us… and then she briefed us again, and it turned out that we still hadn’t stripped everything out as much as we should have done. Turns out a comb and a packet of chewing gum could also delay you in the queue!

It’s a bit of a rush to get to the palace before the sun gets really high in the sky and you really don’t want to miss crucial moments faffing around getting through security – because unless you come back the next day you won’t get the opportunity again. Trust me, you don’t want to magic of this moment ruined by something so boring as logistics.

Be really strict. If you don’t need it, leave it in your hotel room.

Don’t bring any of these items to the Taj Mahal:

• Chewing gum
• Phone charger
• Knives (obvs)

Don’t opt for the first photography opportunity

This is one of the tips for visiting the Taj Mahal that I wish I read before I visited.

When we first got a glimpse of the palace as we were entering the gardens EVERYONE surged towards the first available spot for photographs… and jostled and bumped elbows with all the other tourists trying to pretend that they were the only one in the shot. However, it’s not the best spot.

My advice is to not panic and think because you can’t get a spot there you’re not going to get any decent photographs. Just keep walking.

If you walk down to the water feature in front of the palace you’ll able to get a shot without any crowds in the background. You may even look alone. And that’s not to say that’s the only spot.

There are benches, trees, and pathways to pose on that aren’t your stereotypical ‘straight on’ Taj Mahal shot but are actually just as charming. Try breaking the cliché and being different.

Embrace the madness

Embrace the crowds and go with it. I know whenever you search for pictures of the Taj Mahal on Instagram you’ll see some perfectly dressed person sat in front of the Taj with no one else in sight.

I’m highly dubious about that being the reality. When I was there every possible square inch in front of the palace was crammed full of tourists all trying to get the perfect photograph.

You can get mad about the crowds… or you can simply go with it.

I chose to go with it and embraced what is a rather crazy situation. In fact, one of my favourite photographs from our visit is myself and my sister posing with all this chaos going on around us. It always makes me giggle and it takes me back to what it was actually like in the moment . Not the heavily edited and filtered for the ’Gram version of it.

Wear something colourful

Firstly, I should mention that dressing modesty is important when you travel to India, particularly for women. That means covering your shoulders, not wearing anything too low-cut and ensuring that any skirts are at least knee length. If you’ve made it to the Taj Mahal you’ve probably nailed that part earlier on in your trip. And now onto my main point…

As far as tips for visiting the Taj Mahal go, this one is a trifle more frivolous. Having trawled through all those pictures on Instagram it is something I wished I’d done. Yes, I would recommend wearing something bright and colourful to visit the Taj Mahal – perhaps a colourful scarf or shawl that nods to Indian culture.

I’m not going to lie, it’s also about the aesthetics. A lovely jewel-coloured scarf or sunshine yellow dress really offsets the pale marble of the Taj Mahal in the background, and it’ll help to make your photographs pop!

Actually, one of the women in our tour group had a gorgeous candy pink scarf that she wore over the course of the trip and I think that’s what inspired this point – I really wanted one!

But also wear something warm  

I think I mentioned that we arrived at the Taj Mahal before dawn, right?

It was not warm. That was in early February so it may depend on what time of year you’re travelling to India, but I just wanted to share that it’s not always as warm as you think it’s going to be.

I was certainly surprised, and so glad that I’d picked up a hoodie in Primark the day before I left. There were a LOT of early mornings on the trip and so I needed it a lot – everyone loves a sunrise trip, right?

I would therefore make sure you pack something cosy and comfortable to wear for all those 6am excursions . You can probably do better than me with my Primark hoodie, right?

Have fun with it

Hey – you’re in the presence of one of the seven wonders of the world. That’s a pretty big deal and doesn’t happen every day. From that perspective, you should definitely give yourself enough time to really drink in every moment of that experience. 

I loved wandering around and getting a closer look at all of the beautiful detailing on the building, and it really felt like a privilege being able to see it up close. The gardens are also lovely to wander around – it’s just really lovely to enjoy the greenery after so much dust everywhere else.

However, it’s also supposed to be fun. I mean, who even are you if you don’t get the photo where you look like you’re picking up a tiny Taj Mahal from its tip? You also have to walk around with plastic covers over your feet when you explore the palace (so as not to damage the building) and so you’re never going to look that sophisticated in that context!

We also got a great group selfie, which I just love!

What else is there to see in the Taj Mahal complex?

Now we’re done with tips for visiting the Taj Mahal let’s look at the rest of the complex.

There are a whole host of other buildings in the Taj Mahal complex, so once you’ve got your photography out of the way then take some time to wander around…

The tomb inside the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is, of course, a mausoleum, so make sure you take a chance to explore the tombs of and Shan Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal. What you actually see are ‘false sarcophagi’ – a stone tomb above the real graves – the actual graves are found at a lower level. You can’t take photographs and it is crowded, but it’s worth seeing the heart of the building.

The Taj Mahal gardens

The Taj Mahal Gardens are a sight to behold. Stretching over 300 metres, the garden brings together symmetry, sunken flowerbeds, and a perfectly placed reflecting pool that reflects the image of the palace.

According to Babur, the first Mughal emperor, paradise comprises four rivers and a garden and what we see at the Taj Mahal are a nod to that.

The mosque and guest pavilion

These sit on both sides of the Taj Mahal’s mausoleum and are instantly recognisable by their red sandstone. They’re in perfect symmetry – although they do differ on the inside – which ties in with rest of the symmetrical features in the complex.

The rich sandstone is beautiful and looks gorgeous in the morning sun.

Things to do near the Taj Mahal

If you’re visiting the Taj Mahal you might also want to know what else there is to do in Agra. I’ll be honest, there isn’t loads, but definitely enough to spend one or two nights there. And there are definitely a couple of things that you don’t want to miss out on…

What to do in Agra

Mehtab bagh gardens.

Want to know where you can get one of the best views of the Taj Mahal… without actually being within the grounds of the Taj Mahal? It’s right here at the Mehtab Bagh gardens.

Mehtab Bagh gardens, which translate as ‘the moonlight garden’, sit on the opposite side of the Yamuna River and are a quiet and tranquil location to contemplate the Taj Mahal.

They offer a different sense of the Taj Mahal compared to the mayhem of the crowds you’ll experience when you’re visiting the palace itself. Here, it’s peaceful and uncrowded.

There’s also lots of stunning landscape gardening to admire, as well as the incredible symmetry that will make your photos pop! You can meander around the gardens to your heart’s content and enjoy the views of the Taj, all while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature.

We came here the day before our ‘proper’ Taj Mahal visiting and in some ways I actually enjoyed it more. You could sit here and watch the sunset on the Taj and then go the following morning to enjoy the sunrise – we probably would have done that if there hadn’t been a miscommunication in our tour group. Group travel tours problems, eh!

One last thing: the price. Do you have to pay to visit the Mehtab Bagh gardens? The answer is yes, you do. However, the entry fee is minimal – less then £3 in British money. If you’d like to pre-book your tickets you can do so by hopping over to Tripadvisor right here .

Agra Fort or the Red Fort of Agra

One of the other must-see attractions in Agra is the Agra Fort.

Agra Fort is a 16th-century fort made of red sandstone which is located on the Yamuna River in the city of Agra. It’s also known as the Red Fort.

It’s a pretty impressive complex of buildings comprising different architectural styles; both Persian (Islamic) and local Hindu styles. It was also awarded UNESCO world heritage site status in 1983.

Inside, it’s pretty spectacular. There are a number of different buildings within the fort, with each one being slightly different to the next.

The largest is Jahangir’s Palace, which is a red sandstone built by Emperor Akbar for his son, Jahangir. Then there’s the Pearl Mosque, which is made entirely out of shimmering white marble and is simply beautiful.

There’s also the Musamman Burj, which is an octagonal tower. It’s said that that is where the emperor Shah Jahan, who was banished to the fort by his son, lay as he faced his death. In some ways it seems a fitting way to go: looking out onto the Taj Mahal he built in honour of his true love.

Eat at Maya Hotel and Restaurant, Agra

We arrived in Agra the day before and headed to Maya Hotel and Restaurant for dinner. As with many places in India, it was a rooftop restaurant with a lot of stairs to climb to get to the top. Once you get to the top, however, it’s totally worth it for the gorgeous setting.

Rows of twinkly star-shaped twirl above your head, lighting up the night sky and creating an atmosphere that is both enchanting and charming. The mosaic floor is also a work of art in itself. All in all, Maya plays a blinder: it’s pretty to look at and has a fun, laid-back vibe.  

This place was packed when we were here, so it was obviously popular. And if the food was anything to go by it was no surprise, because it was delicious. This is where I tried a cheese naan bread for the first time – I usually always get peswhari – and it was a revelation. I also tried a delicious Indian dessert, called Gulab Jamun.

Oh, and one other reason why I loved this restaurant. Having been in the holy city of Varanasi before visiting Agra, we were also all delighted to be able to have a drink! Let’s just say the ice cold beer went down a treat!

If you’re looking for a relaxed place to come and have dinner, I would recommend it Maya in Agra.

Maya Hotel & Restaurant address:

18/184, Fatehabad Rd, Purani Mandi, Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, India

One thing I wish I’d done in Agra…

Visited sheroes hangout, agra.

There’s always one thing you don’t do that you wish you did, right?

If I could go back to Agra again I would make sure I visited Sheroes Café . It’s a café run by acid attack survivors, and it raises awareness of these attacks through the stories of the courageous survivors who work there.

As well as serving traditional Indian food in the café it’s also an activism workshop, a radio community hub, and an exhibition space. I really would have loved to have gone to support what these incredible women do, so if you get a chance please go!

Read about more of my adventures in India! Check out my guides to Varanasi here:

• Varanasi travel tips: dos and don’ts in Varanasi
• Places to visit in Varanasi in two days
• Best restaurants in Varanasi

Or take a look at these:

• Jaipur: a perfect pink-hued paradise
• Things to do in Delhi in 48 hours
• Tordi Sagar: the tiny historic village you shouldn’t miss
• Gr oup travel in India: everything you need to know
• Getting the sleeper train in India: your survival guide

Those are my tips for visiting the Taj Mahal. Did I miss anything? Read more about travel in India on this page.

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Tips to Craft a Phenomenal Experience at the Taj Mahal

Asia , Blog Post , Destinations , Experiences , Featured , India , Uttar Pradesh 1

On my third opportunity, I figured out how to create a magical experience at the Taj Mahal – a wonder of the world with beauty beyond imagination. In this article, I share the tips and lessons I learned so you can make the most of your trip.  

As we all know, the Taj Mahal is an ivory-white marble mausoleum on the banks of the river Yamuna in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India. It was commissioned in 1631 by the fifth Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan to house the tomb of his childhood sweetheart and beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The tomb called the Taj Mahal, is the centrepiece of the 42-acre Taj Mahal complex. In addition, the Taj complex houses a mosque and a guest house, set in formal gardens bounded on three sides by walls.

Needless to say, this astoundingly gorgeous beauty is busy – visited by 70,000 people a day. Each visitor arrives to soak in its magnificence, at least once in their lifetime. So to get intimate with the Taj Mahal and to enjoy it to the fullest, it’s best to plan and use some of the tips and tricks I’ve learned in my three visits to the Taj Mahal.  

My first visit was in 1981 as part of a school trip and I was just a kid in a large group but I still remember how completely in awe I was of the Taj Mahal. The second visit was with family, on possibly the busiest day of 2017.

My most recent visit was in December 2023 with my sister, as part of her birthday trip. With some research and planning, it was a spectacular experience.

Here are some tips based on my personal experiences.

When to visit the Taj Mahal

Logistics for getting to the taj mahal, who to hire at a taj mahal visit, taj mahal photography tips, chill and enjoy, best season to visit the taj mahal.

Visit Agra in winter (October-February) for pleasant weather. But avoid major holidays like Diwali when it’s crowded with Indian visitors or Christmas & New Year holidays when it’s crowded with Indian and international travelers. When we visited in early December, the weather was perfect and the crowds were enough to feel like you’re in a lively place but not crowded.

The Best Time to arrive at the Taj Mahal

Arrive at the Taj Mahal at its earliest opening time (ideally before sunrise) to get the most romantic vibe with light fog gradually unveiling the Taj Mahal. As a bonus, at dawn, the sky is colored with hues of yellow and orange.

The local guides advised us to arrive at the Taj Mahal around 9 am, by which time the early risers (mostly international tourists) would be leaving and domestic tourists wouldn’t arrive until after 10 am. The guides also said that there is no sunrise and even no visibility in winter, which was the case on my previous visit. We decided to check the fog weather forecast and follow advice on travel blogs instead.

We were rewarded with the most magical views of the Taj Mahal.

Since the Taj Mahal attracts many visitors in the morning, some say that it is quieter to arrive in the afternoon, as crowds are leaving the Taj Mahal. You might catch the golden hour at sunset if the fog doesn’t roll in.

Taj Mahal Closures

The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays. Some say it’s closed because too many people start worshipping at the Taj on Fridays and others say it’s closed to allow Muslims to pray at the mosque in the Taj Mahal. Either way, do not plan to visit the Taj Mahal on a Friday.

If you’re going to be in Agra on a Friday, there is a lot more to do. But be sure to stay on Thursday or Saturday to visit the Taj Mahal. As expected, Saturdays are busier because of local weekend visitors and pent-up demand from Friday.  

Busiest days at the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is the busiest   during certain times and you craft the ideal time around these times –

• Holidays like Diwali, Christmas, and New Year bring in the most crowds.  
• Cooler months (October to March) are busier because the heat during the rest of the year is unbearable for most visitors.   However, domestic travelers also take to the Taj Mahal during the summer break at school.
• Saturdays are busier because the Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays.

I can honestly say that we’ve visited the Taj Mahal on its busiest day of 2017, possibly one of the busiest and foggiest days ever – Saturday, December 30th – which is a perfect collision of pre-pandemic travel, winter, New Year holiday, and, mid-day Saturday. That day, we spent several hours in the line. When we finally got it, the Taj Mahal was completely packed. We had to skip the upper level and the inside because the lines were extremely long and we ran out of time.  

On my third trip, we visited on Saturday post-pandemic, between Diwali and Christmas peaks. It was early December so the weather was perfect. We arrived very early in the morning.   There were virtually no lines anywhere.

Getting into the Taj Mahal is quite streamlined but knowing the process can help tremendously in making it a breeze. Trust me when I say that not knowing the process can create a complete nightmare.

Buy tickets online

Taj Mahal is notorious for long lines – to buy the ticket on-site, followed by long lines for security checks. To skip the ticket purchase line simply buy the ticket online up to a week in advance. You will need to decide the date and timeslot – AM or PM. Online purchase is also slightly discounted.

Be sure to buy both tickets – for the complex entrance and the main platform to get to the mausoleum.

You can buy tickets for Taj Mahal at the official ticket sites – asi.payumoney.com  &  www.asiagracircle.in .

If you’re in Agra around full moon be sure to get tickets for a 30-minute viewing of the magical, glowing Taj under the moon at the Taj Mahal official site . The website also has valuable information about the monument and the surrounding region.

How to get to Agra

Agra is a small city in Northern India but it is very easily accessible from the metros via car, bus, tour, flight, or train. Most people arrive in Agra from Delhi, the capital of India. Many visit the must-do tourist triangle of Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra. You probably have a tour organizer taking care of logistics. But if that’s not the case, here are some ways to get to Agra –

• Car : Agra is a 3-4 hour drive from Delhi and Jaipur. One can rent a car & driver to drive one way or the entire itinerary. You just have to be careful to rent the vehicle from a trusted source. A critical thing to remember is to never drive after dark in winter because Delhi & Agra are notorious for winter fog, with almost no visibility. This causes tons of accidents every year. We made the mistake once when driving from Agra to Delhi. We had our cousin’s driver & car, but we delayed him when leaving Agra. He miraculously got us home safely, despite the extremely dense fog.
• Flight : Agra has a tiny Air Force airport with a few domestic flights. There was a tiny section for international arrivals but it was not in use. This time we flew from Mumbai to Agra. It was the most efficient and comfortable to get to Agra.
• Bus Tour : With a little Google search, you’ll find tons of day tours from Delhi to the Taj Mahal. Typically on our trips, we pick the activities or tours based on Trip Advisor reviews. I haven’t tried that in Agra but I can’t imagine going all the way to India and taking a rushed bus tour to see the Taj Mahal. You’ll miss all the other fantastic historical sites of Arga.
• Intercity Bus : Intercity buses are quite popular in India. I’ve taken a bus 3 decades ago from Delhi to Shimla. I’m not a big fan but I’m sure there are nice luxury buses or even sleeper buses between Delhi/Jaipur and Agra.
• Rideshare apps : Rideshare apps picked in popularity in India but I came across a weird phenomenon this year. Every time we booked a rideshare vehicle on this trip, the driver called or came to tell us to use the taxi directly for a higher price. The argument was that the rideshare app charges too little and then keeps a cut. So the drivers just use the app to get a customer and then deal outside the app. They happily canceled the ride if we didn’t pay as demanded. So the rideshare price was essentially a joke in Agra, Ajmer, and Udaipur this time but maybe it is different between Delhi & Agra.
• Train : Agra is well connected to cities across India by train. The train will likely be the least expensive and the slowest. But it can be very interesting because it is the preferred transport for the locals. We took a train from Agra to Ajmer this time. It was clean and comfortable. But surprisingly, that particular train did not have any meal service, despite the long trip. People brought their dinner along.

Which Taj Mahal Gate to Use

There are three entry gates for the Taj Mahal – East, West, and South, as shown at the bottom of my diagram below –

The East Gate is the most popular among tourists as it is closest to the nice hotels in Agra. It is also known as the “Royal Gate”. I’ve heard that is relatively more crowded for sunrise, which brings mostly passionate and international tourists. We used the East gate in 2023 and it took about 5-10 minutes to get through.

The West gate is mostly used by locals and is known to have some of the longest lines throughout the day, except early in the morning since most Indians only start coming in after 10 am. The Western Gate is also known as the “Great Gate”. Back in 1981 we likely used the West gate with main road access for buses.

The southern gate is less used and can be a good option for quicker entry. This southern gate is also known as the “Main Entrance” and is located near the heart of the bazaar. This was the site of the ancient Taj Ganji, originally a bazaar and caravanserai, only traces of which are still preserved. We used the South gate in 2017 hoping for a quick entry and yet it took a few hours.

Walk or Electric Transport to the Taj Mahal

Cars or rickshaws are not allowed close to the Taj Mahal, to prevent pollution debris on the ivory-white marble of the Taj Mahal. For the last kilometer or so one has to take electric transport or walk.

We took the electric transport each way. Other blogs mention that they may be scamming us, but that may be in the past.

Save the Taj Mahal ticket

Your tickets will be checked at the exit, so be sure to save it for ready access later.

Check the Weather Forecast

Check the weather app for weather forecasts, including fog forecasts. The weather can make or break the Taj Mahal experience. It gets extremely hot in summer, rainy during monsoon, and foggy in winter. The weather app can help you time the visit in all seasons.

What to Bring to the Taj Mahal

Travel light to the Taj Mahal. You’ll want to bring a phone and a wallet. Maybe a camera and jacket on a winter morning. You must bring a valid ID. Nothing else is needed.

Bonus tip – If you don’t have a bag, you’ll skip the bag scan line and save time.

Large backpacks, food, tripods, and battery packs are prohibited. Security screening at the entrance is thorough and they disallow any prohibited items. Everyone goes through a body scan and all bags are searched thoroughly.

If you must bring a large bag, you can rent a locker to store items before getting in line.

We had a bag for our puffy jackets which were needed for the cool morning. One of the benefits of having a guide was that he carried our bag during the visit.

Wear good Walking Shoes at the Taj Mahal

There is quite a bit of walking inside the Taj Mahal complex. Wearing comfortable walking shoes can make the trip more enjoyable.

Also, if you choose to walk from the parking lot, the shoes will come in handy.

Bring Shoe Covers to Visit the Taj Mahal Mausoleum

Shoe covers are mandatory on the Taj Mahal platform. They will be checked along with the mausoleum entrance ticket.

If you’re using an international ticket, a shoe cover is provided. But if you have an Indian ticket, be sure to bring shoe covers. They can also be purchased at the stalls on the walk to the Taj Mahal. I saw our guide purchase them for us after the car dropped us at the Taj Mahal parking lot.

Rules to Abide by at the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is a revered site, a Mausoleum. It is exceptionally clean, especially for an Indian monument. It is not a place for hundreds of people to take funky tick-tock-style shots and post videos with random music. To prevent people from defaming this special place with junk and funky digital posts, the Taj Mahal is filled with security guards. The moment you break a rule, a guard will be on your case. They will make you permanently delete every disallowed shot or fine or use other deterrence to ensure you’re not breaking the rules.  

The rules are listed on the Taj Mahal website . But it doesn’t seem to list some of the rules that we only discovered on-site.

Here are some of the rules we learned from our guide and the security guards. There may be others that I didn’t find out.  

• No videos anywhere in the Taj Mahal.
• No tripods.
• No twirls or spins with dresses or scarves.
• No pull & release of dresses or scarves.
• No food or drink in the Taj Mahal complex. Water is ok.
• No photography of any kind inside the Taj Mahal main mausoleum.

Our guide said that the Taj Mahal authorities even monitor social media posts. They will file FIRs and hunt down rule breakers. I don’t know how much of it is true. But essentially, they mean business.  

As soon as you arrive in Agra or the Taj Mahal, you will notice a plethora of choices of certified guides, drivers, photographers, and sellers of all types. It can be overwhelming. So let’s simplify a bit.  

It’s my opinion that the vendors can enhance the experience but one has to be careful in picking the provider because a bad one can ruin the experience.  

They may try to hustle and make a buck. That’s entrepreneurial India. Unfortunately, some will take it too far. So choose wisely and remember that the Indian economy is fueled by small, independent businesses. By hiring these providers you are directly supporting an individual who will work to give you a great experience.

They can bring context to your visit through personal stories, and their unique perspectives on the current state of affairs. With the payment, you might be funding their child’s education or medical bills or just bringing dinner to families. Unless you’re on a tight budget, I believe that hiring help and paying for fair work (without getting cheated) is a good way to make the world a better place.

Do You Need a Guide for the Taj Mahal?

Having a guide is a personal preference, most of the time. Some people like to read up on the history before the visit and enjoy the sites without the conversation. For others, the in-person historical context and stories enhance the experience. The interaction allows you to ask questions about the history and the present times. It makes the place more memorable and meaningful. We debated hiring the guide until going to bed the night before.

We decided to hire the guide for his on-the-spot stories but also for his photography skills and his knowledge of the best spots. I’m so glad we did. Remember, tripods are not allowed in the Taj Mahal and other visitors are too busy to take photos of you or your family.   As a bonus, he also carried our bag of jackets which we took off within minutes of entering the Taj Mahal. We got to walk about hands-free.  

So our guide served as a photographer, bag carrier, shoe cover giver, and guide who shared stories of the Taj Mahal, its people, construction, and the history behind it.  

Guides can quote different rates and one may negotiate. We hired a guide from the hotel for our entire stay. He charged us IRS 600 per monument in 2023, which is barely USD $7, for as much time as we needed.  

Guides love to take customer shopping or hire photographs because they get a commission from some vendors. They push hard to just take a look even if you’re not buying. They know that once you see the handicrafts, you’re sure to buy something. The shopping is pretty good but also be savvy and not be tricked.   Be clear about which stores you’re visiting and don’t let them take you elsewhere. Your time is precious too and you can tip them instead of buying something you don’t want.

Overall, we think having a guide added to our experience.

Do you need a Professional Photographer for the Taj Mahal?

Hiring a photographer is quite optional. Our guide very highly recommended or insisted that we hire a photographer. Here are some of our positive and negative experiences –  

• (+) The photographer knew exactly the right spots, angles, and framing. The photographers work together to ensure their clients get pictures without too many other tourists.  
• (+/-) He did a decent job, taking all the standard shots but nothing exceptional.  
• (-) He was in a hurry. After all, there were tens of thousands of others in need of photographers. We could have slowed him down if we had more time.
• (-) We couldn’t proof the photos on little the camera screen the way we could on the phone.
• (-) Even when the photos look nice on the tiny camera screen, on my laptop screen they look blurry, eyes closed, and filled with issues. But I found a few usable photos.
• (-) The photos we (or our guide) took were more unique and interesting because of my research and our ability to re-take photos until we got it just right.

The photographer quoted about IRS 75 per photo or IRS 3,200 per person for the entire set of prints and digital photos. Plus a larger print for each of us. I’m not sure how standard the price was and how much we were ripped.   I’m sure the guide got a big cut and maybe that’s the real reason why he pushed for the photographer.   Anyway, I’m okay with him making the extra buck for his day’s work.

If you hire a photographer at the Taj Mahal, I highly recommend you take the time to pick a few good shots instead of the full package. We didn’t have the time so we took the package. You might want to budget an additional half an hour and save on all the unnecessary shots.

The photo below is one of the best ones of us together, taken by the professional photographer, on his big camera. But the photographer in you will notice the flaws in composition and the blurriness in the subjects. We could easily weed out 80% of the photos for blurryness, mis-composition, closed eyes, etc.

We hired the photographer as insurance, and because we didn’t want to regret not having any good photos.   I think we got a few good photos but I’ll be wiser next time.

Do you need a Car & Driver for the Taj Mahal?

You have a few options to get to the Taj Mahal – hotel shuttle, car & driver, auto-rickshaw, or walk. They will drop you up to the Taj Mahal parking lot, about a kilometer from the entrance.

To decide you can ask yourself a few questions

• Does your hotel offer free shuttles?
• Are you only visiting the Taj Mahal that day? Or are you visiting a few other sites that will need transportation?
• Are you comfortable flagging down rickshaws after each stop and possibly feeling ripped? Are you comfortable haggling for a price each time or be generous to give the rickshaw its asking price?  
• The rickshaws will probably ask you more if you’re an international tourist. I did everything to fit in as a local. I got by most of the time. But it’s not very easy in Agra where they can tell non-locals apart in a glance.

After our Taj Mahal visit, we had planned a couple of shopping stops and then we needed a train drop-off with all our luggage. We felt it was more convenient, safer, and about the same cost to hire the car for the day as multiple taxis or rickshaws.

We used the same driver for our entire 3-day stay, so we knew each other well. Since the driver was from the hotel, he was extra nice. We gave good feedback to the hotel and a nice tip. A win-win outcome.

You’re likely visiting the Taj Mahal once in a lifetime, like most of us. It’s one of the most stunning and unforgettable monuments in the world. You will capture many memories in your mind and feelings in your heart. You might want to also capture photos to refresh memories for decades to come, or to share with friends and family. If photos are not your thing, feel free to skip this section.

Here are a few photo planning tips just for you –

Dress for the occasion

While there is no published dress code for the Taj Mahal, at least none that I’ve heard of. One should be respectful of the culture – cover the shoulders, knees, and all body parts in between.   Wear good shoes for walking and shoe covers to protect the marble floors.

On my third trip, we put the extra effort to mark the occasion and honor the magnificent beauty of the Taj Mahal. Initially, I felt overdressed, but once we arrived, it felt wonderful and respectful towards the dazzling monument. Also, the pictures in proper outfits are a lot nicer than a simple pair of jeans, as on my previous trip. We were not alone. Several others dressed for the special occasion… after all it’s not every day that you visit the one and only Taj Mahal.   It helped that we were heading to a wedding and had some outfits to choose from.

Plan your Photo Shots at the Taj Mahal

It’s not every day that one visits the Taj Mahal. So I spent 5 minutes on Instagram. I picked a few favorite shots to take during our visit to the Taj Mahal. You can go minimal or as creative as you like. Our guide immediately recognized the spots and angles for the shots. He also enforced the photography rules, after all, they are made to honor the Taj Mahal.

Photograph at the Jal Mahal

Almost everyone will head to the central pool for a photo with the crystal clear water in the pools. So it is very hard to avoid people. Its best to go with the flow and incorporate everyone into the photo.

One can sometimes sneak in a quick shot of the imposing Taj Mahal structure with its reflection in the pools. But I had to be very prepared. I literally took the following shot in 5 seconds. The live photo feature on iPhone was a game changer.

Photograph the Taj Mahal from All Sides

The Taj Mahal is symmetrical and identical from all four sides. Most people photograph only from the entrance side. So it’s easier to find open space without the crowds – from the mosque and guest house sides.  

Bonus tip: Photograph the Taj from under the Guest house archway for some dramatic effects.  

Don’t miss to check out the other angles such as the corners, garden edges, or under the many arches.

Photograph the Taj Mahal in its Many Colors

Since the Taj Mahal is made of white marble, it takes on different colors depending on the light of the sky and the sun. If you’re able to stay at the Taj Mahal for a few hours or the entire day, you will see the changing colors of the Taj Mahal. As you walk around the Taj Mahal, you will see different colors based on the angle of the sun.  

Don’t just view or take pictures from the front, walk around and find different colors and angles of the Taj Mahal.  

Bonus tip: Watch other people for creative inspirations.

Photographs Structures around the Mausoleum

In awe of the Taj Mahal’s beauty, it is easy to forget the surrounding structures, such as the mosque, guest house, minerets, darwaze-i-rauza (the entrance), gardens and so much more.

Photograph the Taj Mahal Up-Close

While we can not photograph the most exquisite and detailed art that lies inside the main mausoleum, there is incredible detail in every nook and cranny of the Taj Mahal complex. Every inlay design, every flower petal, and every arch is crafted to perfection. It still moves the heart, hundreds of years after it was chiseled in the ivory-white marble of the Taj Mahal.

Have fun with People Photography

The Taj Mahal is visited by some 70,000 people every day from every part of the world. That in itself makes it a wonderful place for people photography, along with the most incredible backdrop. If you have the patience, all you need to do is find a spot and watch the magic of human emotions and connections.

Here are some bonus tips for you to make the most of your time in Agra and the Taj Mahal

Visit Mehtab Bagh

Visit Mehtab the garden on the other side of Yamuna, before visiting the Taj. It gets very few visitors and great views of the Taj Mahal. There are several other sites in Agra for incredible views of the Taj Mahal.

Honor the 3-hour time limit at the Taj Mahal

When purchasing the ticket you get to choose a timeslot. While the average visitor spends 35 minutes at the Taj Mahal, I think that’s a ridiculously short time for this spectacular monument. We arrived at opening time and stayed the entire 3 hours.   But you can’t just stay all day. Choose to pick a morning timeslot for sunrise or an afternoon timeslot for sunset. At the nighttime viewing, the timeslot is just 30 minutes.

The guards check the ticket at the Taj Mahal exit so if you overstay your time window, you’re expected to pay for the next timeslot too.   That way, you can stay the whole day.

Tickets for International vs Domestic visitors

The entrance price for Indian visitors is Rs 50 per person as of 2023. International tourist price is IRS 1,100 which I think is a steal compared to any significant monument or museum around the world. The non-Indian price includes a bottle of water and a shoe cover.  

An additional   Rs 200 will get an entrance to the main platform and mausoleum. The day-time tickets can be purchased online at asi.payumoney.com  &  www.asiagracircle.in .

The Taj Mahal is open for night-time viewing 5 days a month around full moon night. Tickets can be bought here .

Know what and where you want to shop

All guides and drivers will push you to go shopping or hire experts at places that give them a commission for bringing tourists. They will have all sorts of excuses for not taking you to any other shops, even when you ask them politely. Best to know where you want to go and insist on going there. If you don’t know the best hops, ask the hotel or locals.

In the guide’s presence, the driver will not push you to go to a particular store because the guild handles the commission distribution. But in their absence, the driver will also sneak into shopping stops. They’ll trust you to not tell anyone, even at the risk of losing the hotel contract.

At the Taj Mahal entrance, the guide instructed us to not make eye contact with the stores along the Taj Mahal path instead, we had to walk fast, for the risk of pick-pockets. I have a hunch that he made us rush through because he doesn’t get commissions from those stores.

Explore beyond the Taj Mahal

Beyond the Taj, the Agra Fort, Akbar’s mausoleum, and the well-known monuments, you can take heritage walks listed on the Taj Mahal official site . Our guide or hotel staff never mentioned it and we only learned about it when it was too late.

Plan for time to sit and soak in the sights. The Taj Mahal is India’s dazzling monument of love and loss. In person, it is even more spectacular than one can imagine. So allow for time to sit and soak in the beauty in a way that is etched in your memory forever. I remember each of my three visits as clear as day, even the one in 1981 as a little kid on a school trip.   You will never forget the Taj Mahal, so make the best memory ever.

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Arif khan March 9, 2024 @ 2:07 am

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13 Things To Know Before Visiting The Taj Mahal

W hen it comes to truly great monuments, it doesn't get much more iconic than the ivory-white marble, and satisfying symmetry, of the Taj Mahal. Perched on the banks of the river Yamuna in Agra, India, countless tourists flock to its gates each year, for an all-important glimpse of what is often heralded as the most beautiful building in the world. Some 20,000 of the most skilled craftsmen from India and Central Asia worked on this ornate masterpiece, featuring thousands of sparkling semi-precious stones, among other delicate materials.

You've probably spotted it in pictures any number of times, but experiencing the allure of the Taj Mahal in person is nothing short of otherworldly. It's a must-see UNESCO World Heritage Site , which it became in 1983, and was even declared the winner of the New7Wonders of the World initiative in 2007. But before you visit in the flesh, it's a good idea to get familiar with everything there is to know about the famous "monument of love". From how much tickets cost and where to snap the best picture, to the ideal time of day to arrive, here's how to make the most of your once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Read more: 28 Bucket List Destinations That Everyone Needs To Experience At Least Once

It's Pretty Convenient To Visit

Standing tall and proud in the bustling city of Agra, the Taj Mahal is about four hours north of the country's capital, Delhi. Agra is the most populated state in India, which means there are multiple different options for getting here. The fastest route to the Taj Mahal would be to fly. If you're already in India, your best bet is to arrive at Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport, in Agra — just over 4 miles from the city center. But if you're coming from outside of the country, the nearest major airport is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi.

From here, Agra is easy enough to reach by train. You'll want to arrive at Agra Cantt Railway Station, with several superfast, express trains running to and from all the major cities, including Mumbai, Kolkata, and Delhi. If you'd prefer to take the bus, Agra also has a well-developed road network, which you can access from various nearby hubs, including Delhi, Jaipur, and Varanasi. Just make sure you come into the Idgah Bus Stand in Agra — the main bus terminal.

Whichever transport method you choose, you'll need to take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the Taj Mahal from Agra's center. Be sure to haggle with the driver to avoid paying hefty tourist prices, especially since they won't be able to drop you right outside the Taj Mahal. Vehicles aren't allowed within 500 meters (1640 feet) of the monument because of pollution concerns.

You Can't Visit On Fridays

From sunrise to sunset, on almost every day of the week, you're free to soak up the Taj Mahal in all its splendor — except on Fridays, when it's closed to allow practicing Muslims to worship. You might want to pass up on a weekend visit, too, just to avoid the huge swathes of crowds at every turn.

Settle on an early-morning strategy , or go for a "last thing at night" visit — the Taj opens 30 minutes before sunrise and closes 30 minutes before sunset. Sunrise is truly magical, thanks to a warm glow descending over its pristine white marble. And with fewer people around, you'll likely have the space and time to fully appreciate all of the monument's intricacies, without distraction. Before sunset is just as rewarding, as the changing colors of the sky create an exquisite backdrop.

There isn't exactly a best time to visit India — each season comes with its pros and cons — but think about your priorities. If you prefer cooler temperatures, visit in the winter, between October and March. Just remember that you'll have to contend with thousands of other tourists with the same idea. Plus, it can get foggy, which may obscure your view. April to May will be hot and humid, but there will be fewer tourists around. That leaves June to September — monsoon season. You may get caught in a downpour, but even fewer visitors are prepared to brave it during this time, and accommodation prices are much cheaper.

It Took Around 20 Years To Build

Visiting a historic monument is never quite the same if you don't know the full story, so don't plan this trip of a lifetime without doing your homework first. You'll find that understanding the history gives you a much deeper respect for the Taj Mahal, and allows you to really take in all that this immense structure has to offer.

To give you a little background, the iconic monument we all know and love was commissioned by the fifth Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan, as a memorial for his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal -- she died during childbirth in 1631. The building process was started almost immediately after her tragic death and took around 20 years to complete. As well as incredible white marble from the Indian state of Rajasthan, materials for the Taj Mahal were sought from all over the world, including turquoise from Tibet, white sapphire from Sri Lanka, and jade imported from China. Around 1,000 elephants were also thought to be involved in the construction process, transporting these special materials across borders, and helping to lay them in place.

When the Taj Mahal was finally finished in 1653, there were rumors that the thousands of laborers who helped create it had their thumbs chopped off, so that no such monument could ever be built again! Whether this holds true or not, the Emperor was also buried here after he died in 1666, alongside his beloved wife.

You Need To Wear Shoe Covers

A visit to the Taj Mahal can feel a little overwhelming and be a lot to take in. So much so that it may be easy to forget it's also a mausoleum — the final resting place of the Emperor and his true love. It's really important to be respectful of the rules around the monument, including covering your shoes when you go into the burial chamber.

While most temples in India require you to take off your shoes completely, the Taj Mahal simply asks tourists to use shoe covers, which are given to you in a fetching light blue shade, at the ticket booth when you arrive. These are used to prevent dust particles from being tracked into the mausoleum and to keep its marble-clad surfaces as shiny and clean as possible. On your way out of the Taj Mahal, be sure to put these disposable shoe covers, and any rubbish that you have, in the trash cans provided. Sadly, the world-famous monument has suffered from plagues of litter in recent years.

Tickets Cost More For International Tourists

Don't be surprised to see that domestic tourists pay much less for the privilege of gawking at the Taj Mahal. Indian citizens are charged 50 rupees (approximately $0.70), while foreign visitors must pay 1,100 rupees ($15.50). You'll need to part with even more money if you want to go inside the mausoleum itself — there's an additional 200 rupee fee ($2.50), but it's worth it. Plus, the foreign tourists' ticket comes with shoe covers, a water bottle, a map, as well as a bus or golf cart service, which takes you to the nearest gate. A real lifesaver in Agra's blistering heat. Bear in mind that your ticket is valid for one visit only, but gives you three blissful hours to explore the Taj Mahal.

If you plan to buy your ticket on-site, there are separate counters for domestic and foreign tourists, so be sure to line up accordingly. Both of these booths are likely to be busy with long, snaking queues, which is why it's sensible to arrive as early in the day as you can. In fact, your best bet is to line up at the South Gate and avoid the very busy East Gate at all costs. Or, simply buy your tickets online beforehand.

You Should Know And Respect The Rules

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, every visitor must follow certain rules and regulations inside the Taj Mahal, which have been put in place to protect its magnificence. For example, at no point should you touch the marble, or any other material inside the complex, because it could lead to erosion. As it is, each surface needs special, round-the-clock care to ensure its beauty is preserved for future generations.

Littering and smoking are also not allowed within the Taj Mahal, so make sure you do your bit to dispose of empty water bottles, and other trash, in the bins outside. If your entrance ticket allows you into the mausoleum, remember not to take any photos here and to be as quiet and respectful as you can. This houses the tomb of Emperor Shah Jahan and his wife -- for whom thousands of Muslims make the journey each year to pay their respects.

Dress Appropriately

You won't find an enforced dress code for the Taj Mahal, but it's always important to be a respectful tourist when visiting India . So, treat the monument like you would any other temple or mosque on your travels. This means keeping your shoulders and everything above your knees covered, as a sign of respect. Sure, you'll notice some foreigners wearing shorts and tank tops, but don't be swept up in this. It's often seen as disrespectful and will only invite unwanted stares.

The best thing to do is play it safe with longer, flowing trousers to keep you covered and cool, as well as kaftans or shawls to hide your shoulders. For guys, wear an overshirt on your top half and a pair of shorts that ideally go down to your knees, or play it safe with full-length pants. If you're feeling exotic, it's possible to rent traditional Indian clothes for your visit, such as a saree or a kurta pajamabut, but expect to pay extra for the privilege.

Leave These Things At Home

A dress code might not be enforced, per se, but the Taj Mahal has some pretty strict rules about what can be brought into the monument. To save yourself the hassle, avoid carrying a backpack (or anything larger than a small bag), any type of food or drink (even if it's sealed), tobacco products, drones, books, mobile phone chargers, GoPros, headphones, batteries, and tripods. And don't bother trying to sneak any one of these items in, either. The guards at security points really dig through your bag and follow a pretty elaborate frisk procedure for each person.

If you really must have one of these items on you for the day, there are lockers available at the East and West Gates that you can store them in. Having said that, it's much easier just to leave forbidden items at home, so be selective when packing your bag. Bring only your camera and your phone with you, but keep the latter on silent mode in the mausoleum.

Get A Guide

For some of the world's most iconic monuments, it could be seen as a waste of money to hire a tour guide. But not the Taj Mahal. Having an expert at your fingertips will really bring the structure to life for you, with stories, and interesting facts you might not hear otherwise. Not to mention be your own personal photographer, and of course, help you with all the best angles for these pictures. There really isn't much information within the complex itself, so it's a bit of a no-brainer. But where do you find the best guide, and how much should it cost?

If you're staying in a hotel nearby, reception staff usually have good contacts with extremely knowledgeable locals. In most cases, they'll be able to offer you a good deal. Or, you could book directly on a local tour guide website, ensuring your hard-earned money goes to a good home. Expect to pay around 2,000 rupees ($25) for a tour guide per day, but if you just want someone to show you around the monument for three hours, you're looking at somewhere near the 1,500 rupee mark ($18). These prices increase dramatically for the pushy kind of guide who lingers outside the Taj Mahal waiting for tourists. So, it goes without saying — book in advance for less stress on the day itself. If you do decide to go with a guide when you arrive, ask them for an approved identity card before you begin.

Where To Take The Best Pictures

The signature shot of the Taj Mahal (the one doing the rounds on social media) is on the approach from the South Gate. You know the one — with a reflection of its world-famous domes in the turquoise fountain, and the majestic white marble of the mausoleum providing the most perfect of backdrops. But it's nearly impossible to get a clear photo here, without other tourists straying into view. So, take your chance and snap away as soon as you arrive — it'll only get busier later on.

If you can't quite get that quintessential shot at this stage, don't be disheartened. There are plenty of other opportunities. What's more, the Taj Mahal is perfectly symmetrical, providing nearly identical views from multiple vantage points. With this in mind, explore the complex as you go and get creative, looking for new angles. One of the most underrated of these is from the mosque on the west side of the mausoleum. It provides the real money shot, and with far fewer people to contend with, too. Who could say no to red-sandstone scalloped archways, providing the most perfect frame for the undisputed star of the show — the mausoleum? Time it for the break of day at sunrise or just before nightfall at sunset, and you're onto a real winner.

Visit The Other Sites, Too

Sure, the main draw of the Taj Mahal is the ivory-white marble of its mausoleum, but there's an entire complex to explore aside from this, so don't miss out. Start with Chowk-i-Jilo Khana forecourt, which houses the main entrance. It's a stunningly beautiful, arched gateway, topped with delicate domes and adorned with floral designs. Next, make your way to the Charbagh, which means four gardens. Prepare yourself for breathtaking views as you walk through Chowk-i-Jilo Khana gateway and into this tranquil space, split into four quadrants by waterways. These gardens are reminiscent of the Koranic description of Paradise — rivers flowing with water, milk, wine, and honey — and a classic sign of the Mughal era.

As you keep moving, you'll come across the aforementioned red-sandstone mosque on the west side, and a perfect replica of it on the east side. This completes the architectural symmetry of the complex and provides a few alternative vantage points for photos. Lastly, if you have time, take in the museum, which is open between 10:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. It's brimming with exquisite miniature paintings, two marble pillars believed to have come from nearby Agra Fort, and portraits of Mughal rulers. This includes those of Emperor Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, lying in the mausoleum just a few steps away.

Expect Photo Requests

If you've explored other parts of India, you'll be well-equipped to deal with it by now. But if the Taj Mahal is your first stop in this truly magnificent country, prepare for a multitude of photo requests. This is especially true if you're tall, have pale skin, and fair hair — characteristics that tend to draw a lot of attention. From whole family photos to couples pictures, locals and Indian tourists will likely be very excited to see you in their country, and may even queue up for their chance to take a snap with you.

Unsurprisingly, this can become quite tiring, not to mention take you away from the experience at hand. But 9 times out of 10, these requests come with no malice, so don't be afraid. In fact, it's seen as a gesture of friendship. If this sounds a little strange to you, it may help to understand that many Indians don't have much exposure to fair-skinned foreigners, or may never have traveled outside India before. Having said this, it's perfectly fine to politely refuse, if you're not comfortable. Otherwise, get stuck in and enjoy meeting plenty of friendly and enthusiastic locals.

Where To Stay In Agra

It's common for tourists to visit Agra on a day trip from Delhi. But just because it's possible, doesn't mean it's the best use of time. For one thing, it makes visiting the Taj Mahal for sunrise or sunset a tall order — and you don't want to miss that. So, if time allows, try to stay at least one night in Agra to make the most of this very special monument. From budget guesthouses to royal suites with unbeatable views of the Taj, it may be comforting to know that Agra has no shortage of places to lay your head with options to suit every budget.

Taj Ganj is one of the best spots in the city, perched right next to the Taj Mahal itself. In fact, it's the closest area that you can stay to the structure, offering a range of hotels, guesthouses, and hostels. It's also a popular spot for restaurants, with a rich dining hub serving North Indian and Mughlai cuisine. The area is also dotted with craft shops selling carved Taj Mahal replicas, marble inlay work, and semi-precious stones. If you're looking for something fancier, journey just a short distance away to Fatehabad Road. This area is renowned for its upscale hotels and plush, luxury resorts, many of which offer breathtaking views of the monument from deluxe suite rooms and rooftop restaurant terraces.

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Taj Mahal visit – the complete guide with 16 tips

Home » India » Taj Mahal visit – the complete guide with 16 tips

The Taj Mahal is situated in Agra on the banks of the river Yamuna. It is in the state of Uttar Pradesh in the northern part of India , very close to New Delhi, the capital of India. The Taj Mahal is the epitome of beauty and an architectural feat. It stands smugly in all its glory even after many centuries since its construction.

Shah Jahan commissioned the construction of the Taj Mahal as a symbolic expression of love to his dear wife Mumtaz Mahal upon her death in the year 1631. Taj Mahal not only evokes a sense of amazement at the extent an Emperor could go to build a monument of this sheer size for his love but also marvel at the precision and symmetry achieved in building this.

Such is the beauty of this monument that it is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World and rightly a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Taj Mahal receives anywhere between 7 – 8 million visitors annually. It is one of the most favorite destinations in the world for domestic and foreign tourists alike.

The below guide will give you all the details that you need before packing your bags to visit this enchanting place. We will talk about how you can reach the place, the best time to visit, the reason why the Taj Mahal was built, facts, photography tips and any watch outs to be aware of for a safe and fun trip. All the information provided in the guide is valid as of June 2018.

Taj Mahal is approximately 222 km away from New Delhi, so you will need around 3 – 4 hours by road or by train. Though the Taj Mahal makes for a good one-day trip, it is good to stay overnight as viewing the Taj during sunrise is an experience in itself. 1. Best time of the year to visit the Taj Mahal Here is a chart showing the average temperature for each month of the year at Agra

The Taj Mahal is open on all days except Fridays so plan your travel dates accordingly. The best time to visit Agra is during the winter between October to March. Though the air is bitter cold in the night, the warmth of the sun during the day makes for a perfect visit in these months.

You can visit the Taj Mahal during the summer too from April to June. Beware that the temperatures during the day are very high and if you are sensitive to heat, you can visit the Taj during sunrise or sunset when the temperature is bearable. The advantage of visiting the Taj during summer is that there are fewer people compared to the peak season and hence a better time spent at the venue.

2. Best time of the day to visit the Taj Mahal The best time of the day to visit the Taj Mahal is undoubtedly, during sunrise . The authorities open the gates to travelers at 6 am every day. This is the perfect time for two reasons: lesser crowds and the elegant golden shine of the Taj against the first rays of the sun. You can hang around as long as you want inside the premises of the Taj Mahal, so make the most of this time to click great shots of this grand mausoleum. The crowd is thinner and hence a better experience. As the day passes, the crowd increases and finding a good photo op is a bit challenging.

The Taj Mahal as it is widely said does reflect different shades of color depending on the time of the day. If you are willing to enter multiple times for photographing the Taj at various times of the day, then visit during sunrise, middle of the day or during sunset. If you are skeptical about visiting twice, then you can enter the complex and stay for as long as you want for one ticket. So, as a tip, you can enter at 6 am and leave at around 10 or 11 am. Or enter the complex at 3 pm and witness the sunset and head back. You must note that there is absolutely no access to food, so be prepared in advance.

If you are flexible with dates, plan your visit around the full moon night when the Taj is open to visitors in the night between 8.30 pm to 12.30 am. Night viewing of Taj Mahal is available on five days in a month i.e. on full moon night and two nights before and two after the full moon. Each visitor is given just 30 minutes to behold the glory of the Taj as it glistens under the moonlight. However, the Taj is closed on all Fridays during the month of Ramzan.Though there is some extra effort involved in visiting the Taj at night, it is definitely all going to be worth it. There is no other monument in the world which has special viewing allowed exclusively around the full moon day.

Few things to bear in mind before you plan the night visit are: – You need to buy the ticket in person at Archaeological Survey of India (A.S.I) 22, Mall Road, Agra 24-hours before the planned entry – If you want to cancel the ticket, then you will be refunded 75% of the amount – Visitors are allowed in 8 batches of maximum 50 people each and are allowed strictly for 30 minutes only – For a quick glance as to when is the upcoming full moon days this year and the coming years, have a look at this list here

3. Ticket prices to visit the Taj Mahal Tickets to enter the Taj Mahal are sold at two entry points – the Western and Eastern Gates. There are different ticket price slabs based on the nationality of the traveler. If you are a foreigner visiting the Taj Mahal, then the tickets are slightly priced higher at INR 1000.

Note: SAARC countries are Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, the Maldives, Pakistan andSri Lanka. BIMSTEC member nations are Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan, and Nepal

Ticket prices for night viewing of the Taj Mahal

It is recommended to buy the tickets online here before reaching the venue. With an e-ticket, you can avoid the hassle of standing in long queues to buy the ticket. The Taj Mahal invites a lot of domestic tourists during summer vacation and you wouldn’t want to stand in the sweltering heat, wasting time to buy tickets.

Though the process of buying tickets is easy, you cannot evade the mandatory security check. The length of the queue for the security check early mornings at 6 am are shorter and the process is swifter. As the day proceeds, the length of the queue gets longer. Be patient and keep your tickets handy to show it to the police to gain entry.

Do not forget to carry necessary government approved ID cards with you when you visit the Taj Mahal. If you are a foreigner, do carry your passport with you at all times.

There are a lot of places to exchange currency in Agra since it is a top tourist destination in India. You can find a lot of them on the popular Fatehabad Road in Agra. You can exchange currency at reliable places listed here . 4. How to reach Agra Agra is well connected by air, rail, and road.

By Air Taking a flight to Agra is the easiest from New Delhi as this is the only city that has direct flights to Agra. Rest of the cities in India including the metros like Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bangalore do not have direct flights to Agra. Pre-book your tickets to fly between New Delhi and Agra. Domestic airlines provide daily connectivity and the average cost of the ticket to and fro ranges between 4,000 INR to 7,000 INR depending on the season.

By public transport There are state-run and private-run buses plying between New Delhi and Agra on a daily basis. This is comfortable and cheaper to ride as the fare costs a maximum of 1000 INR to and fro. Pre-booking of bus tickets might not be necessary as there are a number of buses which ply frequently but why take the risk, have a ticket handy in advance. You can book your bus ticket on the popular Red Bus website .

By rail If you would like to have a peek at the changing landscape from the cosmopolitan New Delhi slowly transforming to a town passing through fields, take a train. There is the 12050 Gatimaan Express (non-stop), 12002 New Delhi Bhopal Shatabdi Express and the 12280 Taj Express Superfast departing from New Delhi’s Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station every day between 6.00 am to 8.30 am. The journey is just two hours long with catering services on board. The main railway station in Agra is Agra Cantonment (AGC). You can book your tickets on the Indian Railways website .

Try taking the train journey during daylight. Avoid traveling by train in the night to and fro from New Delhi for security reasons, especially if you are a solo female traveler.

By hired car If you want to hire a car to travel to Agra, then there are many available vendors in New Delhi. The cost of to and fro journey would cost up to of 5000 INR. There is the Taj Express Highway exclusively built to ease travel by road to this heritage site. As the name suggests, this is a six-lane express highway, India’s longest expressway connecting Greater Noida which is outside New Delhi to Agra. You can book a cab here on Savaari Car Rentals or take Ola outstation trips or even an Uber.

Upon reaching Agra through air, bus or train, use the 24-hour official prepaid auto rickshaw and taxi booths just outside the airport, bus stand, and railway station to reach your hotel.

Reaching the Taj Mahal You can reach the Taj Mahal by hiring a cab or a rickshaw from your hotel. All petrol and diesel vehicles are prohibited near the monument to curb pollution and further damage from the soot from these vehicles to the sparkling white marble of the Taj. There is a designated spot where you will be dropped from where you can walk 600 meters to the entrance or there are frequently plying electric vehicles. You can hitch a ride with them for INR 20 per head. Or you can take a cycle rickshaw for INR 50.

5. Where to stay near the Taj Mahal? There are multiple hotels in Agra and near the Taj Mahal where you can stay overnight. Here are a few suggestions for accommodations for a range of budgets.

For luxury travelers, there is the Oberoi Amarvilas , a 5-star hotel. It is just 600 meters away from the monument of love and every room has fantastic views of the Taj Mahal. You can relax, dine and rejuvenate in the spa with luxury meant for the royals at prices starting from 32,000 INR (approx. $470) per night.

Other semi-luxury hotels are Jaypee Palace Hotel, Courtyard by Marriott Agra, Trident Agra, and ITC Mughal, Radisson, Hotel Ramada to name a few. The price per night ranging between 6,000 – 10,000 INR ($ 90 – $ 150).

If you are a backpacker with a minimal budget, you can stay in hostels like Rhine Hostel, Spiritual Yoga and The Coral Court Homestay for as little as 1000 INR ($ 15) or less than that.

These accommodations have great customer reviews and hence reliable. Book your stay in advance for a hassle-free travel experience. (We do not promote hotels or accommodations for any kind of business gains) 6. Considerations for women and kids Like any other monument across the world, eating and smoking are strictly prohibited in the premises of the Taj Mahal. If you are traveling with kids, have them fed well in advance as the trip inside the Taj Mahal will surely take a good 3-4 hours of your time as you will be marveling at its beauty to no end. As suggested above, if you are staying longer, from sunrise to the middle of the day or from mid-day until sunset then eat well in advance. There are free water dispensing units inside the Taj Mahal, but carrying your own bottle is better to avoid the long queue waiting to drink water.

Though there are no restrictions on the dress, it is wise to be dressed moderately. Try to cover your shoulder and legs to be respectful to local culture. If you want to enter the mosque inside the monument, being well dressed helps in entering without any hassle.

If you are visiting in summer, do not forget to carry a hat and cover your arms will full sleeves clothing as the sun gets very harsh. Carry a sunscreen at any cost. There are benches at regular intervals for you to sit and rest. If it is crowded, then you will have to wait for your turn.

Read our other guide to get tips to travel as a female in India . 7. Is the Taj Mahal disable friendly? Yes, the Taj Mahal is disabled-friendly with wooden ramps provided near the entrance, the security checkpoint and when you pass through the Southern Gate .

Since the whole monument is vast, it is better to have an electric wheelchair to steer within the complex. There is an electric vehicle which ferries visitors from the parking lot to the Taj Mahal as all private vehicles are banned near the Taj Mahal. This electric vehicle does not have a built-in ramp for visitors on a wheelchair to board. You might need help in boarding the electric vehicle and carry your wheelchair separately with you. If you are on an electric wheelchair, you can go the entire distance on your own since the Taj Mahal is just 600m away from the parking lot. This 600m distance is flat and paved well, so reaching the monument should not be a problem. This is possible only if the weather is pleasant during sunrise or sunset. Please do not try this midday when the sun is high above the head.

The only regrettable side to visiting the Taj Mahal is that there is no ramp built to access the main mausoleum for wheelchair-bound visitors. The tomb is on a 7m high plinth and unfortunately, there is no provision to lift passengers from the ground level to the tomb. You can read more about a fellow traveler’s experience on the wheelchair when she visited the Taj Mahal here . You can also read reviews and suggestions from locals on TripAdvisor if you need help with the wheelchair when you visit the Taj Mahal.

8. The story behind the construction of the Taj Mahal

Coming to the history of the Taj Mahal, it was the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan who commissioned the construction of this exquisite monument as an expression of his love to his dear wife Mumtaz Mahal. Shah Jahan was the son of the Mughal Emperor Jehangir and grandson of Akbar, the Great.

Mumtaz Mahal, meaning the ‘Beloved Ornament of the Palace’ or ‘Chosen One of the Palace’ , was called so by Shah Jahan, while her actual name was Arjumand Banu Begum.Though Mumtaz Mahal was Shah Jahan’s third wife, poets of that era would extol her beauty, gracefulness, and compassion. She was his trusted companion and traveled with him all over the Mughal Empire. It is said that the official court chronicler Qazwini, said that Shah Jahan’s other wives Akbarabadi Mahal and Kandahari Mahal were nothing but a mere showcase of status but his love resided with this third wife to whom the Taj Mahal was dedicated.

At the time of her death, Mumtaz had been accompanying her husband while he was fighting a campaign in the Deccan Plateau.In the year 1631, Mumtaz Mahal, unfortunately, breathed her last while giving birth to their 14thchild. The demise happened in Burhanpur which is in present-day Madhya Pradesh. Her body was temporarily buried at Burhanpur in a walled pleasure garden known as Zainabad on the banks of the Tapti River. Shah Jahan was so devastated with his loss, that he was inconsolable and was in deep grief at her demise.Shah Jahan returned to Burhanpur to conclude the military campaign and in the same year in 1631, he decided to move the remains of his dead wife.

The remains of Mumtaz Mahal was transported in a golden casket escorted by her son Shah Shuja and the head lady in waiting of the deceased Empress back to Agra. There it was interred in a small building on the banks of the river Yamuna.It is when Shah Jahan was in Burhanpur, that he decided to build the Taj Mahal, the ultimate monument of love and homage to his dear wife. 9. Construction of the Taj Mahal The construction began in 1631. Masons, stonecutters, inlayers, carvers, painters, calligraphers, dome-builders and other artisans were requisitioned from the whole of the empire and also from Central Asia and Iran, and it took approximately 22 years to build.An epitome of love, it made use of the services of 22,000 laborers and 1,000 elephants. After an expenditure of approximately 32 million rupees, Taj Mahal was finally completed in the year 1653.

The Taj Mahal and the entire complex that is constructed around it is a classic example of the Mughal style of architecture with the Islamic tomb as a prominent feature. There is a combination of Persian, Islamic and Indian architectural style in the construction.

White Makrana marbles were sourced from Rajasthan and the surrounding three complexes were built with red sandstone sourced from Fatehpur Sikri.

As if the construction in itself wasn’t magnificent enough with symmetry achieved in every detail of the whole complex, the most astonishing is the intricate design achieved using rare and semi-precious stones. These stones were sourced from far-flung areas which speaks volumes of the commitment that Shah Jahan had to build the most beautiful monument ever which stands the test of time.

Apparently, Shah Jahan himself was very knowledgeable about the stones that were being used in the construction of the Taj Mahal. He was personally involved in the design of this monument and it is this mastery that is evident in the architecture of the Taj. This scale of construction also signifies the power and strength the Mughal Empire enjoyed those days. Shah Jahan under his rule was able to build a monument of this scale without any disturbances in the power circle or face any financial hurdles during its construction.

A lot of rare and semi-precious stones were used in the floral motifs that adorn the walls of the Taj Mahal. More information about the stones, marbles, and sandstone used can be read in detail here . These stones were carefully embedded into the marble using the traditional Pietra Dura style of mosaic work. This decorative art form using semi-precious stones is also called Parchin Kari in the Indian subcontinent. This traditional art form is passed down from generations and there are artisans in Agra who continue to make this rock art at a smaller scale for souvenirs. A travel blogger took this special trip and has beautifully explained this delicate technique here accompanied by brilliant pictures. 10. Architecture of the Taj Mahal A labor force of about twenty thousand workers was recruited from across Northern India. Sculptors from Bukhara, calligraphers from Syria and Persia, inlayers from southern India, stonecutters from Baluchistan, a specialist in building turrets, another who carved only marble flowers were part of the thirty-seven men who formed the creative unit. The detailed history can be read here . The Taj Mahal covers an area of 42 acres in total. Everything about the Taj Mahal, the two complexes flanking its sides, the garden, and the gateway are symmetrical. There was absolutely no room for error and the attention for detail in this aspect is worth an applause. The architect to plan, supervise and build the Taj Mahal was Ustad Ahmad Lahauri.

10a. The Southern Gate or the main gateway The main gateway is the first to catch your glimpse when you finish the security check at the entrance. This is referred to as Darwaza-i-Rauza or ‘gate of the mausoleum’ which is one of the main elements of this monument. This is considered as the South Gate which in fact is the main entrance to the Taj Mahal.

The gateway is made of bricks covered with red sandstone. There is Arabic calligraphy bordering the doorway which is nothing but quotes from the Quran calling the visitor to enter the Paradise Gardens. The quote is etched in black stone into white marble. You can notice eleven little domes just above the entrance on the gateway. There is another set of eleven little domes on the other side of the gateway, totaling 22 little white domes, signifying the precise number of years it took to construct the Taj Mahal.

As you walk past from the security check towards this Darwaza, you can catch a glimpse of the Taj Mahal but it gets completely out of view when you stand in front of this splendid gateway. As you enter the gateway and stand inside the entrance, that you can see the Taj Mahal in its full glory.

As you walk past the Darwaza, you are welcomed to the view you have been preparing for all this while. The white mausoleum perched on a plinth sparkling white at the end of the long watercourse and interspersed garden.

10b. Char Bagh or the Garden The garden is called Char Bagh and is a perfect 300 square meters in dimension. Even the garden, when viewed from above is divided into 4 pieces by 4 calm water bodies. These 4 waterways represent the sea of water, wine, milk and honey which signify paradise as mentioned in the Quran. Each of the 4 sectors is further equally divided into 4 quadrants, making it a total of 16 pieces of the garden with lawn.

The Char Bagh is referred to as the Paradise in this context as the presence of water and so much flora along with chirpy birds and little animals represented great happiness.Recorded documents have mentioned that the Char Bagh garden was full of fruit-bearing trees, fragrant flowering plants thriving with life. As time went by, the ruling British used to enjoy picnicking in these grounds and the Guest House on the eastern side used as a guest house literally.

It was when the British Viceroy to India, Lord Curzon witnessed the sad state of affairs at the Taj Mahal did he begin restoring this monument. He was known to care for Indian heritage and its architecture and he personally oversaw the restoration and maintenance of many monuments but he had a special connection with the Taj Mahal. He was so passionate about the Taj Mahal that he spent money from his own pocket and from the government towards the upkeep of this monument. He ordered the trees to be removed and made for flat gardens and introduced lawns here for the first time. He thought the grass accentuated the vista of the Taj Mahal and the waterways easily.

The other important elements of the Taj monument are the Mosque and the Guest House. Both these complexes are built using bricks covered with red sandstone. They are a replica of each other and hence symmetrical in design and in architecture, also adding an aesthetic color contrast.

10c. Mosque on the Western Side

The mosque is on the left or the western side of the complex. Used for prayer purpose, the mosque faces the direction of the holy city of Mecca. Additionally, there lies a small stone enclosed space of 19 ft by 6.5 ft, which had served as a temporary grave where the remains of Mumtaz Mahal were kept for some time when they were first brought to Agra, until they finally found an eternal place of rest inside the beautiful mausoleum built in her precious memory.

10d. The Guest House on the Eastern Side The guest house is also called as the Naqqar Khana, Mihman Khana, or the Assembly Hall. It is located on the eastern side of the Taj. It is believed that the rest house was built to provide a ‘jawab’, which translates to ‘answer’, as it balances the architectural symmetry and harmony of the whole structure. The exact purpose of the guest house is still not clear though it could have been used to house pilgrims who came here on caravans.

10e. The main mausoleum Now coming to the main aspect of this blog and the whole travel itself which is the Taj Mahal meaning ‘Crown of all Palaces’ in Persian. It stands tall at 73m, raising 7m from the gardens on a plinth. Each minaret is 43m high to emphasize the beauty of the spherical dome. The dome is the most spectacular feature of the monument, being 17.7m in diameter for a height of the arc of 24.4m. The shape of the dome is emphasized by four smaller domed chattris(umbrellas) placed at its corners.

The four minarets at each corner of the Taj Mahal are not built at an exact 90° to the level of the ground, rather built a few degrees slightly outwards from the main dome. This is to avoid any structural damage to the main mausoleum if the minarets crashed in case of an earthquake or any such disaster.

The dome is topped by a brass finial, which mixes traditional Persian and Hindu decorative elements. The finial is topped by a moon, a typical Islamic motif, whose horns point towards heaven. Because of its placement on the main spire, the horns of the moon and the finial point combine to create the shape of a trident —reminiscent of the traditional Hindu symbols of Shiva. The exact design of the finial is drawn on the ground between the Taj Mahal and the Guest House.

10f. The interiors of the mausoleum The interiors of the Taj Mahal have the cenotaphs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal. The actual burial chambers of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal are under the ground just below the cenotaphs which are not in view. Visitors are not allowed to access this place.

The cenotaph of Mumtaz Mahal is exactly in the center of the hall abiding by the rules of symmetry this monument strictly follows.When Shah Jahan died in 1666, his body was placed in a tomb next to that of Mumtaz Mahal. The larger cenotaph of Shah Jahan was added on the western side. This clearly threw the symmetry of the entire monument off balance. This indicates that Shah Jahan’s grave and cenotaph were never meant to be here at all but placed here on the orders of his son Aurangazeb upon his father’s death.

The most exquisite of any wall art that you can ever find is on display in the interiors and exteriors of the Taj Mahal. There is the very delicate marble screen or jali inlay which surrounds both the cenotaphs. This intricate design on the rock is equivalent to a fine piece of jewelry. The marble is perforated with precious stones to have an ornamental look interlaid with flowers and leaf designs. It looks so fine that when you touch it, it feels like a painting and it is difficult to believe that they are exotic stones interlaid into marble.

There is a beautiful bronze lamp hanging from the roof on the inside of the dome above the cenotaphs. This bronze lamp inlaid with gold and silver was a special gift from Lord Curzon to the monument. It has Persian words engraved on it, which reads as ‘Presented to the Tomb of Mumtaz Mahal by Lord Curzon, Viceroy 1906’.History has it that when Lord Curzon used to visit the Taj Mahal he was shocked and appalled to see dim and poorly lit lamps used inside the mausoleum, so he took it upon himself to find the best lamp to match this lavish beauty. In one of his journeys from India to London through Cairo, he met scholars and artisans to have a replica of the lamp that once hung from the mosque of Sultan Baibars I in Egypt. An experienced artisan by the name of Todros Badir was chosen by him to execute the job who took almost two years to finish this masterpiece. This bronze lamp now majestically hangs inside the mausoleum.

10g. The exteriors of the mausoleum The mausoleum has four sides with chamfered corners. Each of these corners has pilasters with designs which make for good optical illusion. These pilasters have 4 sides, with the forth side attached to the wall. The remaining 3 sides are equal in length with V-shaped motif stacked on the entire pilaster.

Try this trick when you are there – stand at least 3 meters away from the wall, fix your eyes at the V-shaped motif and walk closer. As you walk closer, look up slowly and your eyes are tricked to see six sides of the pilaster and not three.

There are Quranic verses on the mausoleum, with Jasper inlaid into marble and has thuluth script. The texts refer to themes of judgment: of doom for nonbelievers, and the promise of Paradise for the faithful.Since there is a prohibition in Islam to depict any human or animal forms in religious art and architecture, you will find a lot of floral motifs in the design of this monument. You can see flowers, leaves, and wines carved out of plain marble in the interiors.

11. Photographing tips The Taj Mahal is a photographer’s dream as this exquisite monument radiates with its charm. Here are a few tips to bear in mind to get great shots of the Taj.

Professional video making inside the complex is strictly prohibited. You need to take prior permission from the office of Archaeological Survey of India located at 22, Mall Road, Agra. If you are capturing a video for a blog, it should be fine.

As soon as you enter the main gateway referred to as the Darwaza-i-Rauza, this is the first time you will get to see the Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal stands magnificently tall and the mausoleum is designed in such a fashion that you do not get a glimpse of this huge structure until you stand inside the Darwaza-i-Rauza. The appearance of the main tomb of Taj Mahal from the interiors of the Darwaza-i-Rauza is your first tryst with the Taj. This is a great spot to click some fantastic pictures.

As you walk past the main gateway, you will witness the Taj Mahal in its entirety. Standing in front of the Taj, just outside the main gateway, this is one of the best views of the Taj Mahal along with the four minarets. The ivory white marble fades into the blue sky at the end of the green garden and the waterway right opposite to the Taj Mahal adds a beautiful dimension to the viewer.

Another nice spot for you to pose for a pic with the Taj in the background is on the elevation in front of the Taj Mahal popularly known as the ‘Diana Bench’. The name has caught on since Princess Diana’s visit to the Taj Mahal where she sat and posed for the famous picture. You will need to wait a few minutes here for your turn to get to sit on this special bench and pose. This gives you a closer view of the Taj Mahal.

Walk towards your right for the Taj Mahal Rest House, also referred to as Guest House. This structure is on the eastern side and hence with the sunrise behind you, the Taj Mahal from this viewpoint looks golden in color and you can appreciate the symmetry and the design perfectly replicated on all four sides of the Taj.

Another interesting viewpoint of the main mausoleum is from the mosque on the western side. With the sun slowly looming over the Taj Mahal, the silhouette of the dome and the finial on top of the dome looks very prominent when you watch from the inside of the mosque. Some of the best shots of the Taj Mahal are captured from this spot. You can observe a lot of pigeons fluttering around which will add a tinge of life to this towering structure. Many award-winning shots of the Taj Mahal is captured from this point.

With the river Yamuna flowing beside the Taj Mahal, request your guide to take you to the other side of the Taj Mahal which has the Mehtab Bagh garden. This is an excellent place to behold the symmetry of not just the main mausoleum but the whole complex in itself. The Taj Mahal including the rest house on its left and the mosque on its right combined with the reflection on the water of the river is a brilliant photo op. If you haven’t hired a guide, you can hire a rickshaw to go to Mehtab Bagh for a price of around 100 INR.

Last but not the least, the beauty of the Taj Mahal is exceptional during and around the full moon night. Within the 30 minutes of time provided in the night, capture the glory when the Taj glimmers under the radiant moonlight.

When you visit the Agra Fort, you can see the Taj Mahal at a distance. You see the main dome, the four chattris(umbrellas) around the dome and the four minarets beside the Yamuna river which makes for a good photo op.

12. Myths of the Taj Mahal As if the story behind the construction of this monument wasn’t fascinating enough, there are a lot of unverified stories and myths about the Taj Mahal. We have listed out a few of them for you. If you want to read the origin of the myth and how they were debunked, read them in detail here .

12a. Black Taj With so much importance being given to the concept of symmetry in the construction of the Taj Mahal, there are unverified stories of how Shah Jahan wanted to construct a monument similar to the Taj but in black marble. This would be built on the other side of the river where the Mehtab Bagh garden currently stands right now.

12b. Italian Architect There are myths from Italian scholars who claim that an Italian architect by the name Geronimo Veroneo designed the architecture of the Taj. This claim has been refuted as there is no conclusive evidence to prove the same.

12c. Mutilation It has been portrayed that Shah Jahan had ordered the severing of the hands of all the artisans who had worked on the Taj Mahal as he did not want anybody to replicate this monument ever again. Though this story might sound credible given how dedicated and passionate Shah Jahan was towards this monument, there is no documented proof of this incident.

12d. Hindu Temple A more recent cry from certain quarters within India is about the credibility of Taj Mahal’s history. There are claims that this was a Shivatemple previously which the Mughals took when they overpowered native Hindus and remodeled it to create the Taj Mahal.

12e. Rajput Palace Another popular story is how the Taj Mahal was previously a Rajput palace.

13. Threats to the Taj Mahal The Taj Mahal was built in the 17th century when the threat of pollution was unheard of. In the 21st century, the Taj is under serious threat from air and water pollution. With a lot of factories and vehicular pollution ruining the quality of the air, there is evidence that the soot from emissions is discoloring the flawless white shade of the marble on the Taj.

The foundation on which the Taj Mahal was laid keeping in mind the water levels of the river Yamuna.When the Taj Mahal was built in the 17th century, the Yamuna was flowing in all its glory but in recent times with industrial waste and sewage being dumped into the river mindlessly, the river is drying up. This calls for special attention to be paid to the strength of this massive structure immediately and the years to come.

One thing that amazes any visitor to this day is the way the Taj Mahal has stood the test of time. It is a magical experience indeed to visit this place with many of them willing to return to visit the Taj. We can only hope that the monument is safeguarded and not let the current circumstances to continue through sincere efforts from law enforcement agencies. 14. Tourist scams to avoid when visiting Taj Mahal There are a lot of touts waiting to ruin your perfect holiday like any other popular tourist destination.

Ignore any requests from them and do not respond to their incessant queries.The hassle with beggars and touts begins at the railway station or airport until the entrance of the Taj Mahal. Please avoid heeding to their words and always take advice from your hotel manager or your pre-booked guide.Arrange for a guide beforehand from a registered tour agency or request a guide to be arranged by your hotel.

You will find guides waiting to assist you outside the Taj Mahal too but always ensure they are recognized and approved by Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India. A half day tour costs around 1000 INR and it is really worth every rupee as the monument is of historical importance.Also you can book a guide online at Tours by Locals or Get your guide websites in advance so that its easy and hassle free on the day of your travel. 15. Souvenir shopping When you are at the most beautiful monument ever on this planet, there is obviously an urge to take a sweet souvenir home. Especially a piece of marble with motifs on it, why not?

Do not buy souvenirs from touts at the exit gates, they can be very convincing and might try to offer discounts. To buy quality products and value for your money, shop at The Warehouse of Gifts & Souvenirs. Though not really anywhere close to the Taj Mahal, it is around one kilometer from the Southern Gate. Hire a rickshaw or take the help of your guide to reach this shop. It is on the Agra – Bah road. The exact location is – 18/151 Purani Mandi Crossing, Opp. Shah Jahan Garden, Near Agra Golf Course, Bansal Nagar, Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001. You can find great reviews about them on their Facebook page .

Talk Travel suggests the best places for the benefit of travelers and we do not promote any brand or souvenir shops for business gains.If you do not have a lot of time on your hands then try bargaining with souvenir vendors at any of the exit gates. Ask at a few shops, compare prices and zero down on the best offer. 16. Additional things to do alongside the Taj Mahal visit 16a. Taj Mahal museum The Taj Mahal Museum is known as the Jal Mahal, it is on the west side of the complex. This too is built with bricks as its base covered with red sandstone.

The origin of the Taj Museum dates back to 1906, it was created under the orders of Lord Curzon, the British Viceroy to India.The museum includes three galleries in addition to the main hall and highlights various exhibits related to the construction of the Taj Mahal. It houses interesting artifacts from the Mughal era like calligraphy specimens, utensils used in everyday life, plans and drawings of the Taj Mahal. The main hall has paintings made by Shah Jahan and his wife, Mumtaz Mahal on ivory framed in ornamental wooden frames.

The entry to the museum is free and is open from 9 am to 5 pm on all days except Fridays. There is no queue to enter, you can just walk in. There is no necessity for a ticket as it is inside the monument.

16b. Agra Fort Agra Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, also called as the Red Fort of Agra. It is situated around 3 km away from the Taj Mahal. Visit this 16th-century monument to understand the historical relevance of this place.

After Shah Jahan’s son Aurangzeb deposed his father and restrained him in the Agra Fort. It is believed that Shah Jahan died in Muasamman Burj, which had a view of the Taj Mahal.Agra Fort is a palatial red-sandstone and marble fortress, which was built between 1565 and 1573 on the banks of the river Yamuna by Akbar, the Mughal emperor, and grandfather of Shah Jahan.

Do not miss visiting the Shish Mahal which was a Summer Palace built by Shah Jahan.The roof in the interiors of the Shish Mahal is embedded with thousands of well-cut mirror pieces sourced from Haleb, which is present-day Aleppo in Syria.

16c. Akbar’s Tomb Akbar’s tomb is around 16 km away from the Taj Mahal and has a Mughal style of architecture with red sandstone as its theme. Akbar’s tomb is not as glorious in its grandeur compared to the tombs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal. This tomb for Akbar was built by his son Jehangir between 1605–1613.

We hope that you enjoyed reading our detailed guide to visiting the Taj Mahal. We have shared all the relevant information needed to visit this monument and hope it helps you to have an amazing experience at the Taj Mahal.

As suggested, book your entry tickets online, book the hotel and the tour guide all in advance to enjoy a hassle-free experience. A visit to the Taj Mahal is worth the miles traveled as its unique history, unmatched beauty and the theme of eternal love will leave long lasting memories in your heart. Do write to us , in case you have any questions and we at Talk Travel are happy to help.

If you need any help in building a travel itinerary or you have any other query, download our free Talk Travel App on your Android or iOS device to talk to our local expert. Reach out to a local expert without any additional cost and get answers for all your travel queries. Get answers to your questions before or during your travel from our local expert who look forward to assisting you.

We wish you a safe and happy travel!

Are you travelling around India? You might want to look at the other guides and posts we have written for India , to make your travel more easy and enjoyable.

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8 Best Tips for Visiting the Taj Mahal

If you heard about India then Taj Mahal will be the first thing comes into your mind and why not? Taj Mahal is one of the most recognized monuments of India and one of the seven wonders of the world.

Situated on the banks of the Yamuna River, Agra one of the best tourist attraction in the world . If you’re traveling to India and thinking about skipping it because you have seen millions of photos then I recommend you to reconsider your decision because pictures cannot do the Justice with the beauty of Taj Mahal.

If you’re planning to visit Taj Mahal then you should read this post here I shared everything you need to know before visiting Taj Mahal along with Tips and tricks of Taj Mahal so that you can enjoy every bit of it.

Table of Contents

Where is Taj Mahal?

Best time to visit taj mahal, when does taj mahal open and close, which the best gate to enter in taj mahal, what to wear at the taj mahal, what you can’t take inside the taj mahal, taj mahal photography tips, take a perfect snap from the river, tips you should know before visiting taj mahal:.

Located on the banks of Yamuna Rive, in the city of Agra, in one of the crowded state of India Utter Pradesh which has 1.7 million people nowadays.  In this city, Taj Mahal situated in the east, which is one of the richest part from the time of construction.

Here is the complete address show by Google: Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001.

Suggested Tour:   Agra: Skip-the-Line Taj Mahal Admission with Optional Trips

The best time to visit Taj Mahal from October to March or you can avoid too cold days like Jan and Fab because there is fog during these days. So you can’t see Taj Mahal even you’re 500 meters away from it.

If you love summer then you can visit at the end of March or September because it will be warm enough but not too much heat. Summer is the peak tourism session for both domestically and internationally. So try to come early in the morning there will be little crowd nice weather and you’ll avoid the heat.

The Taj Mahal appears to slowly alter its shading in the changing light of the day. It’s amazing to spend time early in the morning and get the best sunrise shot in the world.

IF you’re not a morning person then sunset visit is also a good choice because the temperature becomes cool and the monument is surrounded by soft silver light. But you’ll find more crowds at sunset than sunrise. Patience is the key to capture some beautiful shot.

Taj Mahal is open every day from sunrise to sunset apart from Friday. And the night view of this beautiful wonders is only available 5 days of the month – during the full night and 2 day before and after that day.

October to March – Its winter time so you’ll get the most comfortable temperature but more crowd and fog as well

April to June – Its summertime, temperature becomes hot, peaking around 40 to 45 Celsius

July to September – Its rainy season so try to avoid this time if you hate rainy season

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Opening Hour in day time : 6:00 am to 6:30 pm except Friday

Night Time : 8:30 pm to 12:20 am.

There are three entrance gates to the Taj Mahal. Make sure you know each gate very well so you can choose the best one for you:

The west Gate : This is the most crowded gate during the day but it less crowded during sunrise as compare to other gate. So it can be a good option for you if you walk early in the morning.

The East Gate : This gate faces toward Fatehabad. There is a domed tomb raised on a elevated stage close to this entryway. This Tomb was built in the memory of another spouse of Shah Jahan called Sirhindi begum. Because of this, the door is known as ‘Sirhi Darwaza’.

The South Gate : The gate faces towards the old Mumtazabad. But if you love to take sunrise click here than you can avoid this gate because this gate doesn’t open until 8 am.

There is no dress code enforced at the Taj Mahal but it’s important to dress modestly. You see some women wear shorts and tank tops as well.

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India is a deeply religious country, Hindu, Muslim and Sikh. I recommend you to dress modestly because the general of dressing in India for women is to cover the shoulder and everything below your knees. You can check my guide Do’s and Don’ts in India .

There is a long list of what you can’t bring inside the Taj Mahal and some of them are so arbitrary like food, tripod, selfie stick, headphone and many others as well.

You can only bring a water bottle with you that is given to you when you purchase a ticket. You can read up the complete list of banned items by click here .

Visiting Taj Mahal is a dream of every photographer whether you’re a professional or not. But be prepared with the correct equipment to take some of the most magical shot.

Sunrise, Sunset, and Full Moon Shot: Sunrise is the best time for amazing photographs of the Taj Mahal because of that time it is less crowded and looks like a blooming flower. Sunrise beats the crowd and you have a better chance to take the great shot without people.

Sunset is cool and beautiful but it is also crowded so you have a few angles in mind from which you’d like to take an amazing shot. Because once you’re in you may be overwhelmed by the crowd, so it’s good to make few angles before visiting.

Be ready to click the picture with locals as well. You may ask to click photo by local people as well. Everyone seems to stop and takes picture. So try to beat the crowd to take good pictures.

Taj Mahal was constructed with white marble so when you inside you can actually witness the moonlight glow through the marble. It looks spectacular so if you want to take full moonlight shot than Taj Mahal is open for night tours as well but be sure to book your ticket ahead because there is a limit of certain amount of people in Night.  The night view of this beautiful wonders is only available 5 days of the month – during the full night and 2 days before and after that day.

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After taking all shots of sunset, sunrise and full moon night then head to the river and take an amazing look of Taj Mahal from the Yamuna. It is less crowded and depending on which spot you choose you can prefect angle to take an amazing shot.

For details about the ticket, you can visit the official website of Taj Mahal

Looking for stay? Here are 10 Best Hotels near Taj Mahal, Agra (Guaranteed Discounts)

Here is the list of tips for visiting Taj Mahal. If you wants to add more tips then let us know in the below comment section and share your favorite moment while visiting Taj Mahal with us. Cheers until next post!!!

Hi Guys, My Name is Pursottam Saini, living the life of my dream – From traveling one destination to another and seeing the places I still don’t believe.

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Top tips for visiting the Taj Mahal

By: Author Monica

Categories India , Travel Tips

When most people think of India, they think of the Taj Mahal and rightly so, it is India’s most recognised monument. If you’re planning to visit India soon, then you’ll want to have a read of today’s post and it is full of my tips for visiting the Taj Mahal while you’re in the South Asian country!

Visiting the Taj Mahal was without a doubt the highlight of my trip to India . I don’t normally get excited over buildings but how can you not get excited about the Taj Mahal!?

For as long as I can remember I’ve been entranced by the massive domes, the curved archways and the way the sun shimmers off the white marble.

If you’re travelling to India and you’re thinking about skipping the Taj Mahal because, let’s face it, we’ve all seen a million pictures of it already, I strongly recommend you reconsider. There is such a beautiful and magical atmosphere and photos really can’t do this incredible building justice.

Like most things in India, visiting the Taj Mahal isn’t always as simple as you might imagine, which is why I’ve put together today’s post, full of all of my tips for visiting the Taj Mahal.

Taj Mahal Travel Tips: The history of the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is a mausoleum built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a monument to his fourth wife who died after giving birth to their 14 th  child.

The Emperor wanted the Taj Mahal to be 100% marble but due to the weight it had to be made from brick and clad in the stunning white marble which comes from Varanassi.

Building began in 1631 and took 20 years.

Soon after the mausoleum was completed, Shah Jahan’s son had his father imprisoned, presumably because he spent so much of their money building the Taj Mahal.

Shah Jahan was placed in the Red Fort where he had a view over the Taj Mahal and stared at it for the rest of his days as he mourned for his wife.

It is said that he cried so much while staring at the Taj Mahal hat he eventually went blind because of all the tears and the building is thought to be one of the most romantic symbols of love in the world.

I don’t know how true this is but whoever let the truth stand in the way of a tragically romantic story?

The tombs of the Emperor and his wife are in an underground crypt but replica tombs can be visited inside.

There are three other incredible buildings surrounding the Taj Mahal and I couldn’t help but feel a bit sorry for them. If they stood on their own I’m sure they would be gawped at by tourists but when stood next to the Taj Mahal they are sadly dwarfed by its beauty.

The mosque, however, does provide the perfect frame for taking pictures of the Taj Mahal.

Top Tips for visiting the Taj Mahal

• My first Taj Mahal travel tip is to get there as early as possible. The tourist buses start rolling it at around 9am so anything before then is best to avoid the crowds. I arrived at 6.15am in time for the gates opening at 6.30. Even at 6am there was a queue!
• Make the most of the chai tea sellers who walk up and down the queue.
• The ticket to get in costs 750 rupees for foreigners which is about £9.00 (prices and currency conversion from April 2013) .
• You’re divided into queues of men and women because you’re searched when you enter. Don’t take any lighters or anything sharp, flammable or any food as it’ll delay you getting in and may be taken from you.
• They say that food and metal objects will be taken off you at security. In reality, I don’t think they’re that strict but it’s best it’s best to avoid having them to get through security quickly and easily.
• I wish that I could give you a Taj Mahal travel tip that would tell you that you could go at some time in the day and avoid the crowds. In reality, whatever time you go, it will be crowded so you need patience to get a good photo without someone standing in the way. Don’t give up, they’ll move eventually!
• To get ‘the money shot’ of the Taj Mahal, you need to join an informal queue by the edge of the pond and place your camera on the ground. This will ensure you get the water and a great shot of the whole building and it will also be straight and without any people in the way. Take as many pictures as you possibly can before the snappy happy tourists behind you start to get rowdy.
• For a second chance to see the Taj Mahal, head to the gardens across the river. You only pay 100 rupees to enter and I went at sunset for a crowd-free Taj experience.

There you have it, my tips for visiting the Taj Mahal. If you’d like an even easier and stress-free experience then check out these affordable Taj Mahal tours with GetYourGuide. I’m a bit fan of GetYourGuide because you can easily book tours from home and know your trip is organised for you.

Read more about my India travel tips here.

Yogesh keskar

Sunday 24th of December 2017

Visiting Jan 2018 Thank you for valuable info

The 6 must-see sights to discover when traveling in India - Man vs Clock

Friday 22nd of December 2017

[…] Of course, the list had to start with the most famous sight in India. Unsurprisingly, it’s a busy and crowded tourist spot. The gates open at 6:30am, so most advice tells you to get there as early as possible. […]

Nomadic Foot

Friday 15th of July 2016

such a beautiful description of Taj Mahal. I have been here almost 100 times as a tour manager with my groups and its still attracts me. Its really deserve to be in wonder of the world.

Wednesday 2nd of March 2016

Hi Monica! I understand that this might be an antiquated post but it is still so helpful and needed! Quick questions: do you have a recommended entrance gate to the Taj Mahal? It looks like the northern gate is beautiful, but does it really matter? Also, do I purchase tickets to see the Taj in advance or do I just go to the ticket booth on the actual day? And lastly, the other sites in Agra like the Red Fort, are they near by? Is there a way to see the main Agra attractions in one day? Thank you so much!

TheTravelHack

Thursday 3rd of March 2016

I don't think it matters at all which gate you use. You can buy tickets on the day - I'd get there early before the gates open and get someone to stand in the queue while someone else goes and gets tickets. Your hotel may be able to provide you with tickets too though.

The Red Fort isn't too far away. If you've only got one day and you want to see everything then I'd recommend booking a day tour. This one with Urban Adventures looks pretty good - http://www.urbanadventures.com/Agra-Culture-Tour#nav-section1

Alternatively, you could book one through your hotel as they almost always have tours on offer. Or you could find a taxi driver and hire him for an entire day. Negotiate a rate for the whole day and ask to be taken to certain sights. If you get a good driver then this can be great as you'll get to know each other and you can do everything at your own pace. But there's always the risk you won't find a good driver.

Have a great time!

Amanda Dawes

Thursday 17th of September 2015

Loving your blogs! I'm off to India next year and your advice has been wonderful!

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