Taj Mahal, Agra
The Taj Mahal is a renowned symbol of eternal love, showcasing the grandeur of Mughal architecture from the 17th century situated in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. Built under the reign of Shah Jahan, it stands as a mausoleum dedicated to his beloved consort, Mumtaj Mahal, reflecting ethereal beauty and everlasting love.
Architectural Marvel and Significance
Beautiful White Marble Construction and Symbolism
The Taj Mahal is celebrated for its stunning white marble architecture, representing the epitome of eternal love. Recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, it stands as a testament to the brilliance of Mughal design and earns a prestigious place among UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites.
Visiting Information
Timings and Entry Fees
- Opens: 30 minutes before sunrise
- Closes: 30 minutes before sunset
- Closed on: Fridays
- Night view timings: 8.30 pm to 12.30 pm (Visiting in 8 batches with a maximum of 50 people each batch)
Entry Fee
- Indians: INR 50 for entry + INR 200 for the main mausoleum
- Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries: INR 540 entry + INR 200 for the main mausoleum
- Foreigner tourists: INR 1100 entry + INR 200 for the main mausoleum
- Children under 15 years of age: Free entry
Tips and Recommendations
- Best to visit between November and February.
- Recommended time: Approximately 5 hours.
- Restricted items: Drones, eating/smoking, photography inside the main mausoleum, mobile phones not on silent mode, and mobile phones during night viewing.
Exploring the Taj Mahal
More About Taj Mahal
- Named after the Persian language, translating to the Crown of Palaces.
- Built by 22,000 artisans over 17 years.
- Flocked by visitors year-round.
- Taj Mahotsav: Indian art and culture fest held every year from 18th to 27th February.
Architecture Overview
- Blend of Persian, Islamic, and Indian styles.
- Surrounded by crenellated walls on three sides, facing the River Yamuna on the fourth.
- Made of white marble from Rajasthan, adorned with gemstones.
- Tombs of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan in a locked chamber under the main mausoleum.
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
- November to February for pleasant weather.
How to Reach Taj Mahal
- Located 200 km from New Delhi, accessible via roadways and railways.
- Buses and cars: Take the Yamuna Expressway.
- Train: Agra Railway Station, followed by a cab or taxi to the Taj Mahal.
Tips for Visitors
- Enter through the east gate for the shortest queue.
- Visit between November and February for the most pleasant weather.
- Free water bottle and shoe cover included with the ticket.
- Enjoy up to 30 minutes of free Wi-Fi.
- Use golf carts and battery buses from the parking area.
- Utilize the free cloakroom near the ticket counter.
- Audio guidebooks available for INR 118.
Nearby Tourist Spots
Discover other attractions when visiting the Taj Mahal, including:
- Agra Fort
- Jama Masjid
- Jahangir’s Palace
- Mankameshwar Temple
- Chini-Ka-Rauza
- Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daula
- Mehtab Bagh
