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Discover the Taj Mahal: Everything You Need to Know!

Visiting the Taj Mahal? Get complete details on tickets, timings, entry rules, what to carry, best photography spots, and helpful tips for a smooth visit.

Agra Trends

December 26, 2025
1 minute
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A visit to the Taj Mahal involves more than just reaching Agra and buying a ticket. Simple things—like when you arrive, which gate you use, or what you carry—can shape how smooth or tiring your experience feels. Many visitors only realise this after they reach the monument.

This guide is written to help you avoid that confusion. It explains everything in a simple and direct way, so you know what to expect before you step inside. If you are visiting Taj Mahal for the first time, these details will help you move through the experience with ease and confidence.

Introduction to the Taj Mahal

Located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, the Taj Mahal lies along the bank of the Yamuna River. Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan built it to honour the memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The construction of the Taj Mahal started around 1632 and took more than two decades for completion.

The monument is built from white marble and is known for its symmetry, detailed stone work, and open garden layout. As you walk through the complex, the space feels organised and quiet, allowing you to take in the structure without feeling rushed. A planned visit to the Taj Mahal helps you notice these details rather than feeling overwhelmed by the crowd.

Best Time to Visit Taj Mahal

Weather and crowd levels play a big role in how comfortable your visit feels.

The most suitable time to visit the Taj Mahal is between October and March. During these months, temperatures are moderate, and walking around the complex is easier. Summer months can be extremely hot, especially after noon, while the monsoon season may bring humidity and unclear views.

Early morning visits are usually more manageable. The crowd is thinner, security lines move faster, and the surroundings feel quieter, giving you enough space to explore at your own pace.

Taj Mahal Timings & Entry Gates

Taj Mahal Opening Hours

Before planning your schedule, it is important to know the Taj Mahal opening hours.

Open daily from sunrise to sunset
Closed on Fridays
Open on public holidays

Night viewing is allowed on full moon nights and two days before and after, except Fridays and the month of Ramzan.

Entry Gates Explained Clearly

There are three entry gates:

East Gate (Fatehabadi Darwaza): Often less crowded and commonly used by tourists
West Gate (Fatehpuri Darwaza): Tends to be busier, especially in the morning
South Gate (Sidhi Darwaza): Limited access and mostly used as an exit

Choosing the East Gate can help reduce waiting time during peak hours, plus if you buy tickets online, you can also avoid long queues.

Ticket Prices & Entry Rules

Ticket Prices (As of 2025–2026)

Knowing the ticket prices beforehand helps you plan better.

Indian citizens and OCI cardholders: ₹50 for entry to the Taj Mahal complex. Entry into the main marble mausoleum costs an additional ₹200, making the total ₹250.
Foreign tourists: ₹1,100 for entry to the complex. The mausoleum ticket costs an extra ₹200, bringing the total to ₹1,300.
SAARC and BIMSTEC country citizens: ₹540 for entry to the complex. With the additional mausoleum ticket, the total cost is ₹740.
Children below 15 years: Entry is free, including access to the mausoleum.

The mausoleum ticket is optional and can be added at the time of booking.

Taj Mahal Entry Rules You Need to Follow

The Taj Mahal entry rules are strictly enforced to protect the monument.

Only small bags are allowed inside
Food items, tobacco, lighters, and sharp objects are prohibited
Mobile phones are permitted inside, as long as they remain silent.
Tripods, drones, and large electronic items are not permitted

Security checks are detailed, so carrying fewer items saves time at entry points.

What To Bring To Visit The Taj Mahal?

Carrying only what you need makes the visit easier.

Bring:

A valid photo ID
Your entry ticket (printed or digital)
Comfortable footwear for walking
Sunglasses or a cap during sunny weather
A small water bottle after security clearance

Avoid carrying large bags or unnecessary items, as storage options are limited.

Best Photography Spots for Taj Mahal

Photography is permitted in most parts of the Taj Mahal complex.

Good spots include:

The central pathway from the main entrance
The reflecting pool area for straight-on views
Side angles near the mosque and guest house
The river-facing side for quieter compositions

Morning light is softer and more even. Always stay within permitted areas while taking photos.

Local Tips for First-Time Visitors

If you are visiting Taj Mahal for the first time, these simple tips can help avoid common issues:

Book tickets online on https://www.tajmahal.gov.in/ to reduce waiting time
Arrive early to manage crowds better
Choose government-approved guides only
Ignore unofficial sellers near the gates
Keep some cash for local transport or small purchases

Move slowly, take breaks, and allow enough time to explore without rushing.

Nearby Places to Explore in Agra

Your visit to the Taj Mahal can be part of a wider Agra itinerary. Nearby places include:

Agra Fort
Mehtab Bagh
Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah
Taj Nature Walk

These locations are close to the Taj Mahal and can be covered within the same trip.

Final Thoughts on Your Taj Mahal Visit

The Taj Mahal is best experienced when you know what to expect before you arrive. This Taj Mahal travel guide focuses on practical details so you can spend less time figuring things out and more time observing the monument.

With the right planning, your visit feels calm, organised, and meaningful—allowing you to experience the Taj Mahal at your own pace.