Taj Mahal
Taj Mahal · Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, India
Last updated 2026-10-29
By Global Travel Guide Editorial Team
Introduction
Arrive at sunrise if you want space and soft light; the gates open around 6:00 and close at sunset, and the complex is shut to visitors every Friday. Foreign tickets cost about ₹1,300 and include shoe covers and a water bottle, with a further ₹200 for the interior of the tomb. From Agra Cantt station, auto-rickshaws charge roughly ₹150–200; from Delhi, the Gatimaan and Taj Express trains take between 1.5 and 3 hours. October to March is the most comfortable season, while April to June brings extreme heat.
Ticket Price
Foreign tourists: around ₹1,300 (includes all monuments + water bottle + shoe covers); Indian citizens: ₹50; Children under 15 free. Additional charge for mausoleum interior: ₹200 extra for foreigners. Check the official site before booking.
Opening Hours
Sunrise to sunset (roughly 6:00–18:30), closed every Friday for prayers; Night viewing: full moon nights plus 2 nights before and after (except Fridays and Ramadan); Night tickets must be booked 24 hours in advance. Check the official site before visiting.
Transportation
From Agra Cantt railway station: auto-rickshaw ~150-200 rupees, taxi ~300 rupees; From Delhi: Taj Express / Gatimaan Express train (1.5-3 hours), or Agra day tour by bus/car; E-rickshaws and golf carts for last mile near the monument
Best Season
October–March for mild, pleasant weather (10-25°C); April–June is extremely hot (40°C+); July–September is monsoon season with rain but also fewer crowds; sunrise is the best time of day year-round
Pro Tip: Go at sunrise and book online
Local Tips You'd Only Learn After Visiting
The details official guides skip — save time, avoid crowds, and get better photos.
1
Go at sunrise and book online The first entry slot has the softest light and the smallest crowds. Buy the official ticket in advance, carry the passport used for booking, and expect security checks.
Member-Only Tips
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Frequently Asked Questions3 questions
Mughal emperor Shah Jahan built it in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, starting in 1632 and completing the main mausoleum in 1648; the whole complex was finished by 1653. It sits in a 17-hectare garden on the Yamuna River.
Pietra dura is the inlay of semi-precious stones into white marble, used for flowers, calligraphy and geometric patterns. Look for it on the main mausoleum walls, the cenotaphs and the gateway.
It closes to tourists on Fridays because the mosque on the site is used for prayers. It is open Saturday-Thursday from sunrise to sunset.