Tips for Visiting the Taj Mahal

Tagore once described the Taj Mahal as a lonely tear suspended on the cheek of time. While we may lack his eloquence, we do have some invaluable tips for visiting the Taj Mahal that will help you enjoy one of the most magical places on Earth. Practicality trumps poetry any day.

Having visited this iconic white edifice twice, we were once again mesmerized by its beauty. This UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized as one of the seven wonders of the modern world, makes Agra a must-stop destination for anyone traveling to India. While the Taj Mahal is undoubtedly the star attraction, there is a rich array of other sights worthy of exploration in Agra.

So, let's delve into the secrets and essential tips for visiting the Taj Mahal. Take note, as we begin!

1. The Taj Mahal: A Dream Palace

Though it may appear to be a stunning palace, the Taj Mahal is, in fact, a mausoleum. Its story is steeped in the poignant tale of lost love: commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan to honor his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died after giving birth to their fourteenth child.

This monumental project enlisted the finest architects, calligraphers, and artisans from across India and took 20 years to complete. Beyond its immense scale and architectural brilliance, the Taj Mahal is famed for its pure white marble and intricate decorations, including calligraphy and inlaid precious stones.

The mausoleum, which houses the remains of Shah Jahan and his beloved wife, is the centerpiece of the complex. Surrounding it are additional structures, including a mosque, sandy-colored walls, and expansive gardens with serene ponds.

2. Hours and Days of Operation

The Taj Mahal opens its gates from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes before sunset. In recent years, a rule was established where visitors are allowed to stay for three hours inside the grounds. While it is unclear if penalties are enforced for exceeding this time, it's best to adhere to the guideline. Three hours can be just enough to soak in the experience.

Importantly, the Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays, as this day is reserved for Muslim prayers, with only Muslims allowed entry for their worship. Plan your visit accordingly—ideally between Monday and Thursday—to avoid the increased local tourist traffic typically seen on weekends.

If possible, steer clear of weekends, as they tend to draw in larger crowds of local tourists.

3. Buy Tickets Online Through the Official Website

While it remains possible to purchase tickets at the ticket booth, it is highly advisable to book your tickets online through the official website at www.tajmahal.gov.in. This will help you avoid long lines, although you may still face a brief wait before entering.

Tickets are available for purchase about 7-10 days in advance, and you will need to select your time of entry: either morning (forenoon), allowing you to stay until noon, or afternoon (afternoon), until closing time.

Regarding price, there are two types of tickets: one for general admission and another that includes access to the interior of the mausoleum. The price difference is minimal (200 INR), so we recommend opting for the comprehensive ticket. For foreign visitors, the total ticket price is 1,300 INR.

Foreign ticket rates? Yes, when selecting your tickets, be sure to indicate whether you are Indian or foreign (foreigner). Buying a ticket for nationals will not work for you. This policy can be contentious; however, we personally believe that the slightly higher price for foreigners is reasonable, given the monument's significance.

4. The Best Time to Visit the Taj Mahal

Without a doubt, the ideal time to visit the Taj Mahal is at sunrise. During both of our visits, we woke up early and arrived about 30 minutes before the gates opened, allowing us to enter fairly early and enjoy some truly magical moments.

While many others have the same idea, witnessing the changing colors of the Taj Mahal as the sun rises is a spectacle not to be missed.

Another perk of arriving early is the relatively cooler temperatures compared to midday, which can be a relief. However, depending on the time of year, you may encounter some morning fog, particularly in December and January. We did experience a slight haze, but it added to the photographic charm and dissipated quickly.

If you prefer to sleep in or can't make it for the sunrise, the next best time to visit is at sunset. Keep in mind the closing hours are strict, but you'll have enough time to bid farewell to this magnificent monument as the sun sinks in the sky.

5. Should You Visit on Your Own or with a Guide?

This question does not have a straightforward answer. If you lack a solid understanding of the Taj Mahal's history and desire to learn about its intricacies and secrets, hiring a guided tour can be beneficial. However, ensure that your guide is licensed and agree on a total price for your group beforehand.

Important: Engaging a guide is NOT mandatory. Many visitors find themselves approached by individuals at the entrance offering their guiding services, but you can easily explore the Taj Mahal independently.

If you have limited time in Agra and want to maximize your visit, we recommend checking out this tour, which includes transportation and a guided visit in Spanish to both the Taj Mahal and the Agra Fort.

Conversely, if you've researched the mausoleum's history and are eager to plan your own visit, exploring the Taj Mahal independently is perfectly valid. This allows for a flexible itinerary and freedom to set your own pace.

6. What to See at the Taj Mahal

The complex features a beautifully landscaped garden with fountains and waterways, accessible through the main entrance, known as Darwaza. Several impressive buildings surround this area.

The most famous structure is the Mausoleum, constructed entirely of white marble, symbolizing the purity of Mumtaz's soul. Its grand entrance and iconic dome are breathtaking. Be sure to admire the numerous details, such as the engraved verses from the Quran, floral and geometric decorations, and the inlaid precious stones. Inside, you'll find the tombs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal.

This mausoleum is framed by four 40-meter-high minarets at each corner, contributing to the symmetrical aesthetic that permeates the entire design.

Additionally, there are two stunning secondary structures: the Mosque on the west side, made of red sandstone, featuring three grand marble domes, and the guesthouse, or Mehmaan khana, on the opposite side, echoing the former's design to maintain symmetry.

⭐ Here you can find the best sights and activities in Agra.

Your planning should start a few days before your visit. You should have your hotel reservation for the night before, purchased your tickets online, and perhaps arranged for a taxi or tuk-tuk for an early pickup.

Now, you'll need to decide which entrance to use for the Taj Mahal. You can enter through the East or West Gates; we chose the East Gate both times based on recommendations that it is less crowded, and it worked out well for us.

Arrive a little early and queue up, and once the gates open, hop on the free electric golf carts that take you closer to the complex, then head straight to the Great Gate, pass through it, and stroll through the gardens.

The ideal spot to witness the sunrise is at the Mosque, located to the west of the mausoleum. From this vantage point, you can see the sun rising just behind the magnificent monument, casting its silhouette against a crimson sky, like a painting come to life. It will be a truly magical moment.

During both of our visits, we found the area to be relatively quiet, and we even had moments of solitude, suggesting that many visitors prefer to stay in the gardens or on the opposite side of the Taj Mahal.

As the light brightens, take some time to explore the stunning red sandstone building of the Mosque. Then, we recommend making your way to the center of the gardens, where a platform with a small pond provides a fantastic photo opportunity in front of the mausoleum. You may encounter a bit of fog, but rest assured it will dissipate as the morning progresses.

Now it’s time to explore the Taj Mahal. Take your time to appreciate every detail, every corner, and immerse yourself in the history and beauty of this place.

Finally, visit the Mehmaan khana located to the east of the Taj, and make your way back through the gardens towards the Great Gate, capturing final photos—these will be much clearer than your initial ones. The site isn't vast, so your visit won't be exhausting.

Remember to wear shoe covers provided at the entrance, and maintain a solemn and respectful attitude: no loud noises or laughter, as you are in a mausoleum.

7. The Best Views of the Taj Mahal

Of course, aside from the monument itself, there are several great spots around Agra where you can capture stunning photos of the Taj Mahal. Consider visiting:

• Agra Fort, where Shah Jahan was imprisoned and from where he would gaze at the palace where his beloved wife rests for eternity.
• Mehtab Bagh Gardens, situated across the Yamuna River, perfect for sunset views. Entry costs 300 INR.
• Saniya Palace Inn Rooftop, one of several hotels with panoramic views of the Taj, it stands out for its proximity (though the hotel itself isn’t highly recommended).
• Joey’s Hostel Rooftop, a more recommended choice if you also plan to stay in Agra. You can book it here.

8. Is it Worth Visiting the Taj Mahal from Delhi?

While it isn't impossible, it can be quite a trek: the distance is 200 km each way, which can take a long time depending on your mode of transportation. Many travelers include Agra as part of a 7-day tour through the Golden Triangle (Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra), usually with private transportation (car or minibus) and a driver.

If you're traveling independently, the bus takes about three hours, and the express train takes roughly two hours (you can purchase tickets on the 12go.asia website).

⭐ Discover the itinerary, information, and prices for the Golden Triangle tour here. If you only have a week, this could be an interesting option.

9. More Tips for Visiting the Taj Mahal

Before you leave, make sure to note these additional recommendations to ensure your visit to the Taj Mahal is truly unforgettable:

• Don’t get too caught up in photography. While we all want beautiful pictures for memories or social media (admit it), the Taj Mahal is one of the most photographed monuments in the country, so spending hours trying to capture the perfect shot isn’t advisable.
• Entry to the Taj Mahal is not allowed with large backpacks or bags, and you cannot bring food or drinks (you will receive a water bottle and shoe covers with your ticket, both mandatory for entering the mausoleum). Drones, tripods, lighters, chargers, and photography inside the mausoleum are also prohibited.
• If you have any prohibited items, you can store them for free at the designated area near the west gate (Fatehpuri Gate).
• Smoking is not allowed within the Taj Mahal complex.
• Lastly, many books are set against the backdrop of the Taj Mahal and the enchanting era of that magical India. If you enjoy historical novels with a romantic touch, the book “TAJ” by Andrés Pascual is an excellent choice to transport you back to its construction through the story of a calligrapher.

We hope these tips and recommendations for visiting the Taj Mahal will help you plan an unforgettable experience. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment, and we will respond as soon as possible.

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