Taj Mahal
An iconic symbol of love and architectural brilliance, the Taj Mahal is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning white marble and intric...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Taj Mahal
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic symbol of love and architectural brilliance, the Taj Mahal is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning white marble and intricate design.
"Witnessing the Taj Mahal come to life at sunrise is an experience like no other."
Book Tickets Online
:admission_tickets: Skip the lines! Purchase your Taj Mahal tickets in advance online for a smoother entry.
Sunrise is Worth It
:sunriseovermountains: The early wake-up call is rewarded with stunning light and fewer people.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Mausoleum at Sunrise
Main structure
Witness the marble glow with ethereal beauty as the first light of day touches its facade. A truly magical experience.
Reflecting Pool Views
Central pathway
Capture iconic symmetrical shots of the Taj Mahal mirrored in the tranquil reflecting pool. Perfect for that postcard-perfect photo.
Intricate Marble Inlay
Exterior and interior walls
Marvel at the detailed pietra dura work, where semi-precious stones are inlaid into the marble. A testament to exquisite craftsmanship.
The Gardens and Mosque
Surrounding grounds
Explore the lush Mughal gardens and the elegant red sandstone mosque flanking the main structure for a broader perspective.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tickets Online
:admission_tickets: Skip the lines! Purchase your Taj Mahal tickets in advance online for a smoother entry.
Sunrise is Worth It
:sunriseovermountains: The early wake-up call is rewarded with stunning light and fewer people.
Dress Modestly
:womanintunic: Respect the site. Cover shoulders and knees. Comfortable shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Hydrate and Protect
:waterwave: Carry water and wear sunscreen. The Indian sun can be intense, even on cooler days. :sunwith_face:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tickets Online
:admission_tickets: Skip the lines! Purchase your Taj Mahal tickets in advance online for a smoother entry.
Sunrise is Worth It
:sunriseovermountains: The early wake-up call is rewarded with stunning light and fewer people.
Dress Modestly
:womanintunic: Respect the site. Cover shoulders and knees. Comfortable shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Hydrate and Protect
:waterwave: Carry water and wear sunscreen. The Indian sun can be intense, even on cooler days. :sunwith_face:
Photography Rules
:camerawithflash: No tripods or professional equipment inside. Be mindful of where you take photos.
Guided Tours
:man_detective: Consider a guide for deeper historical insights. Many offer great perspectives.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Taj Mahal's breathtaking beauty and architectural magnificence, often describing it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The ethereal glow at sunrise and sunset, along with the intricate marble inlay work, are frequently highlighted as unforgettable aspects. While the crowds can be substantial, the sheer wonder of the monument often overshadows this.
"My cousin Simran recommended Taj Mahal, and I’m so glad we went! I brought my whole family and everything was great—the atmosphere was warm, the drinks were solid, and the food was amazing. The Szechuan chicken was especially good, and the butter chicken was spot on. Service was amazing too- shout out to Ajit who gave us wonderful service. We’ll definitely be back!"
Devin Kals
"Truly appreciate Ajit and the staff there for such amazing hospitality! We had jackfruit nihari and bukhara kofta! Both amazing! Rotis were soft and so warmly served! Truly felt flavor of India justified! Would definitely comeback and recommend this place highly!"
PRAVITA BALIJEPALLI
"We had a great time celebrating our anniversary dinner here. Our host, Abhi, was very courteous and made our evening extremely special with his utmost hospitality. The food was really delicious, and the ambiance was amazing. This is one of our favorite restaurants to celebrate any special occasion and it never disappoints. I highly recommend it."
chandini prasad
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way is by the Gatimaan Express train from Delhi to Agra Cantt, which takes about 1 hour 40 minutes. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or take a bus. Many travelers opt for a day trip from Delhi, often including Agra Fort.
From Agra city, you can take an auto-rickshaw, cycle-rickshaw, or a pre-paid taxi to the Taj Mahal ticket counter. Electric vehicles are available to take you closer to the monument itself to reduce pollution.
Yes, auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are readily available for getting around Agra. Ride-sharing apps also operate in the city, offering convenient options.
No, private vehicles are not allowed near the Taj Mahal to preserve its atmosphere and reduce pollution. You'll need to park at designated lots and use the electric vehicles or walk.
The nearest airport is Agra Airport (AGR), but it has limited flights. The most common gateway is Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi, from where you can take a train or drive to Agra.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase tickets online through the official Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) website or at the ticket counters near the East, West, and South gates. Booking online is highly recommended to save time.
Ticket prices vary for Indian citizens, citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries, and other foreign nationals. Foreign nationals typically pay a higher fee. Check the official website for the most current pricing.
The Taj Mahal is open from sunrise to sunset, typically around 6 AM to 6:30 PM. It is closed on Fridays for prayers. Special night viewing is available on full moon nights and the two days preceding it.
It is strongly advised to book your Taj Mahal tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons and holidays. This helps you avoid long queues at the ticket counters.
Yes, there are different ticket categories based on nationality. Some tickets may include access to the mausoleum itself, while others might not. Ensure you select the correct ticket type for your desired access.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is allowed in the gardens and exterior areas, but it is strictly prohibited inside the main mausoleum. Tripods and drones are also not permitted.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most magical light for photography, with soft, golden hues illuminating the marble. The early morning light is particularly favored for its clarity and fewer crowds. 
The reflecting pool in front of the mausoleum provides iconic symmetrical shots. The gardens and the mosque on either side also offer beautiful perspectives.
Yes, mobile phones are allowed for photography in designated areas. However, remember that photography is not permitted inside the mausoleum.
Yes, drone photography is strictly prohibited within the Taj Mahal complex and its surrounding areas due to security and preservation reasons.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees, out of respect for the monument. Comfortable walking shoes are essential as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
Yes, licensed guides are available for hire at the ticket counters. They can provide historical context and enhance your understanding of the monument.
Prohibited items include large bags, food, drinks (except water), tobacco products, sharp objects, and electronic items like tripods and selfie sticks. There are cloakrooms available for storing excess items.
Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the Taj Mahal complex, including the gardens and surrounding structures. If you're taking a guided tour, it might take longer.
The grounds are relatively flat, but navigating the entire complex might be challenging. Electric vehicles are available to assist visitors. Check with authorities for specific accessibility information.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no restaurants inside the Taj Mahal complex itself. You'll find food stalls and eateries outside the main gates and in the city of Agra.
Agra offers a variety of dining options. Many visitors enjoy local eateries for authentic Mughlai cuisine. Some popular choices include Esphahan at The Oberoi Amarvilas for fine dining and various local restaurants near the Taj Ganj area. +1
No, food and drinks (except for a sealed bottle of water) are generally not allowed inside the Taj Mahal complex to maintain cleanliness.
Agra is famous for its Mughlai cuisine, including dishes like Petha (a sweet), kebabs, biryani, and various curries. Don't miss trying the local specialties.
Yes, most Indian restaurants in Agra offer a wide range of delicious vegetarian dishes, including paneer preparations, lentil dals, and vegetable curries.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the stories and the sheer scale of the monument to keep them engaged. The gardens offer space for them to move around a bit. Be prepared for security checks and ensure you adhere to photography rules to avoid any issues. The experience can be made more enjoyable by visiting during cooler parts of the day, like early morning.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2Remember to check the latest photography regulations, as tripods and professional equipment might be restricted. Focus on capturing the intricate details of the pietra dura inlay work and the overall architectural grandeur. Early morning visits are highly recommended to avoid crowds and capture the monument in its serene glory.
❤️ Couples and Romantic Getaways
+1Consider a guided tour that can share the love story behind its creation, adding a deeper emotional layer to your visit. While the site can be crowded, finding quieter spots in the gardens or visiting during off-peak hours can enhance the romantic experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Love Story Behind the Taj Mahal
+1The design itself is a harmonious blend of Persian, Ottoman Turkish, Indian, and early Mughal architectural styles. The white marble, sourced from Makrana in Rajasthan, is renowned for its luminescence, changing hues with the light of day. The intricate inlay work, known as pietra dura, features semi-precious stones meticulously carved and set into the marble, depicting floral motifs and calligraphy from the Quran.
+1Beyond its romantic origins, the Taj Mahal is a symbol of India's rich history and cultural heritage. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, drawing millions of visitors annually who come to marvel at its beauty and ponder the enduring power of love.
+1Experiencing the Taj Mahal at Different Times
+1As the day progresses, the sun climbs higher, and the marble can appear stark white. Midday visits are typically the busiest, with the largest crowds. However, the sheer grandeur of the monument is still awe-inspiring. Sunset offers another spectacular display, with the monument bathed in warm, golden light, creating a romantic ambiance.
+1For a truly unique perspective, consider the limited night viewing sessions, which occur on the full moon and the two nights preceding it. Seeing the Taj Mahal illuminated under the moonlight is an unforgettable, almost surreal experience, though photography is highly restricted during these times.
Navigating the Taj Mahal Complex
The main entrance leads you through the Darwaza-i-Rauza, the Great Gate, which frames the first iconic view of the Taj Mahal. From here, you can walk along the central pathway towards the mausoleum, with the famous reflecting pool offering perfect photo opportunities.
+1Beyond the main mausoleum, explore the surrounding gardens, which are meticulously maintained and offer different vantage points. On either side of the Taj Mahal are two identical red sandstone buildings: the mosque to the west and the guesthouse (Jawab) to the east. These structures add to the symmetry and grandeur of the entire complex.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit