The Taj Mahal is no doubt a famous sight, with its elegant white marble and perfect balance. It’s located by the Yamuna river in Agra, India. Every year, lots of tourists visit to see one of the world’s prettiest buildings. Around 20,000 talented builders from India and Central Asia created this large, detailed monument. It shines with thousands of semi-precious stones and other fine materials. Seeing it in person adds an extra magical feel, even if you’re familiar with its photos. It’s a notable UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983. Plus, it was voted a winner of the New7Wonders of the World in 2007. Knowing about the “monument of love” before going is smart. It helps to know the ticket price, best spots for photos, and when it’s less crowded. This info will make your special trip better.
It's pretty convenient to visit
The Taj Mahal stands tall in vibrant Agra, a busy city about four hours from Delhi, India’s capital. As India’s most populous state, Agra offers various ways to get there. Flying is usually the fastest option. If you’re in India, your ideal destination is the nearby Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport. Travelers coming from abroad should aim for Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. From Delhi, a train to Agra is a piece of cake. Target Agra Cantt Railway Station, which connects to key cities through numerous express trains—including those from Mumbai, Kolkata, and Delhi. For those wanting bumpy bus rides, Agra’s vast road system branches out from different locations like Delhi, Jaipur, and Varanasi. The Idgah Bus Stand in Agra is a must-destination. Regardless of your choice of transportation, you’ll have to wrangle a taxi or hop in an auto-rickshaw from Agra’s center towards the Taj Mahal. Haggle to avoid steep tourist costs. Remember, vehicles can’t get closer than 500 meters from the Taj due to pollution control measures.
You can't visit on Fridays
If you fancy seeing the Taj Mahal in its full glory, any day is a good choice except Fridays – the day reserved for Muslim prayer. Big crowds can also pop up on weekends, so maybe cross that off too. Either decide for an early rise or opt for a visit just before nightfall. Those are the times when the Taj welcomes guests, half an hour around sunrise and sunset. The morning sun’s glow transforms the white marble masterpiece into a magical site. Plus, there’s less hustle and bustle, making your tour a distraction-free affair. The pre-sunset time doesn’t lack its own charm, treat your eyes to the divine play of sky colors. Choosing a perfect season for your India trip is a guessing game. They all have their fair share of pros and cons. If you’re not a fan of heat, winter months from October to March are your friends. But prepare for hordes of like-minded tourists and possible fog attacks. From April to May, it’s hot and sticky, but tourist count drops. And from June to September, be ready to dance in the rain. That’s where you’re likely to experience the least competition for room reservation and can score some budget-friendly deals.
It took around 20 years to build
If you’re thinking about touring a historical site, learn its backstory first! Knowing the history of the Taj Mahal, for instance, can enhance your appreciation for this massive marvel. Here’s a snapshot: The Taj Mahal wasn’t built overnight. In fact, this familiar landmark was a loving memorial project by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who sadly died during childbirth in 1631. Work on this awe-inspiring structure started almost right after her death and took around 20 years. With breathtaking white marble from Rajasthan, India as its central material, the Taj Mahal is literally a global masterpiece. The monument showcases turquoise from Tibet, a white sapphire from Sri Lanka, and jade from China. Even its construction was a colossal endeavor, involving 1,000 elephants to transport these treasured materials across borders. Dedication to the project ran so deep it finished in 1653, amidst rumors that the laborers had their thumbs cut off to prevent a replica! Whether that’s factual or mythical, the late Emperor rests here since 1666, beside his cherished wife.
You need to wear shoe covers
At the Taj Mahal, the experience can feel intense and a lot to process. You might forget it also serves as a grave for an Emperor and his true love. Respecting the monument’s rules matter, including covering your shoes in the burial chamber. Different from other Indian temples, you only have to cover your shoes at the Taj Mahal. You receive free light blue shoe covers at the arrival ticket booth. They prevent tracking dust into the grave and keep the marble surfaces clean. Exiting the Taj Mahal, throw your shoe covers and trash into the designated garbage bins. Unfortunately, this famous monument has battled litter problems in previous years.
Tickets cost more for international tourists
The Taj Mahal, a sight to behold, has different pricing for locals and foreigners. At 50 rupees (around $0.70), Indians get a bargain. Foreigners pay more, a total of 1,100 rupees ($15.50). Want to explore the mausoleum? That’s another 200 rupees ($2.50). But don’t worry, it’s worth it. Plus, a ticket for foreigners includes extras. Shoes cover, a water bottle, a map, and a choice between a bus or a golf cart service to the nearest gate. Helpful in Agra’s intense heat. Remember, tickets are one-time use but last three hours. Plenty of time to explore the Taj Mahal. Considering buying tickets onsite? There are separate lines for locals and foreigners. Be ready for big crowds. Why not get there super early? South Gate is less crowded than East Gate. Better yet, get your tickets online ahead of time.
You should know and respect the rules
Visiting the Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, means respecting some rules to keep it wonderful. Never touch the marble or any inside material because it’s prone to erosion. Each surface needs constant, expert care to stay pretty for future visitors. Littering and smoking aren’t allowed. Do your part by throwing away water bottles and other waste in outside bins. If your ticket lets you in the mausoleum, no photos and quietness are required. The mausoleum is home to Emperor Shah Jahan and his wife’s tomb, a significant place for many Muslims who visit yearly to honor them.
Dress appropriately
The Taj Mahal doesn’t require a dress code, but when touring India, being respectful always matters. See this iconic building like any other holy place in your travels. It means cover your shoulders and all above your knees to show respect. Some tourists may dress in shorts and skimpy tops, but don’t add to this trend. It’s often viewed as rude, drawing unwelcome attention. Choose to stay safe with longer pants, keeping you moderately dressed and comfortable. Include kaftans or shawls for covering your shoulders. Men can opt for a shirt worn over their torso and shorts reaching their knees, or be on the safe side with full pants. If you’re up for it, you can also rent traditional Indian attire like a saree or kurta pajama for your visit, but it’ll cost a bit more.
Leave these things at home
There’s no rigid dress code at the Taj Mahal, but they’re quite particular about what items you bring in. For a stress-free visit, skip the backpack. Stick to a small bag. Food, drinks, even packaged, and tobacco items? No-go. Drones, books, phone chargers, GoPros, headphones, batteries, or tripods? Also a no-go. Attempting to smuggle anything won’t work. Security guards sift thoroughly through bags and conduct a detailed frisking for each visitor. If you really need to have any of these items with you, there are lockers at the East and West Gates to stow them. It’s simpler just to leave the no-no items at home. Pack lightly. Bring just your camera and your phone, but remember to set your phone to silent inside the mausoleum.
Get a guide
The Taj Mahal isn’t just another monument. A guide can share tales, fun facts, and become your personal photographer, making it worth it. The complex lacks in-depth info, so having a guide makes sense. But the question is, where do you find a good guide and at what cost? Usually, hotels in the vicinity have connections with locals who have extensive knowledge. They can offer you a great package deal. Alternatively, you can book directly through a local guide’s website, ensuring your money supports the local community. A full-day guide service can cost about 2,000 rupees ($25). But if you want a three-hour tour, it may cost near 1,500 rupees ($18). It’s pricier to hire guides who hang around the Taj, hoping to snag tourists. So, booking in advance is always smarter to avoid stress. If you choose a guide on the spot, ask for an approved ID card before starting.
Where to take the best pictures
You’ll see the most shared image of the Taj Mahal as you approach from the South Gate. It includes a mirror image of its iconic domes in the teal-colored fountain, and the impressive white marble of the tomb in the background. Yet, it’s challenging to take an unobstructed picture here due to other visitors. So snap your photos as soon as you get there— it’ll just get more crowded. If you don’t nail the classic shot on your first try, don’t worry. You’ll have several other chances. Plus, the Taj Mahal’s perfect symmetry offers practically identical views from various spots. So be adventurous as you navigate the compound; seek out fresh perspectives. A less crowded but equally stunning viewpoint is from the mosque at the mausoleum’s west side. There, framed by red sandstone arches, the main event—the mausoleum—stands out beautifully. Aim for sunrise or sunset, and you’ll capture a truly remarkable view.
Visit the other sites, too
Yeah, the Taj Mahal is popular for its marble mausoleum. But that’s not all, it’s got much more to offer! Begin with the Chowk-i-Jilo Khana forecourt. It’s home to the main entrance and it’s really pretty. The doorway is an arch, and it’s topped with small, delicate domes. It’s decorated with flower patterns too. Next, head towards the Charbagh. Fancy word for four gardens! Prepare yourself for some amazing sights as you step through the Chowk-i-Jilo Khana gateway and into this peaceful place. The space is divided into four parts by water channels. These gardens are based on the Koranic idea of Paradise, with rivers of water, milk, wine, and honey, a clear sign of the Mughal time period. As you keep exploring, you’ll soon see the already talked about red-sandstone mosque on the west side, and its identical twin on the east. This gives the complex a sense of architectural balance and even more spots for cool pictures. Lastly, if you have time, check out the museum. It’s open from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., full of amazing miniature paintings, two marble pillars that are thought to be from nearby Agra Fort, and pictures of Mughal kings. This includes Emperor Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal’s portraits, all just an arm’s reach away from the mausoleum.
Expect photo requests
Visiting different parts of India can prep you for it. Yet, if your initial stop is the Taj Mahal in this splendid land, gear up for numerous photo ops. Particularly if you’re tall, or possess light skin and hair, which may attract attention. Family and couple photos might be requested by local folks and visitors from India, thrilled to meet you. They might even line up for a picture with you. Logically, this can get a bit weary and distract you. But mostly, it’s just friendly curiosity, so don’t worry. It’s viewed as amicable. Comprehending that many locals haven’t met many pale-skinned foreigners or traveled abroad will help. Respectfully say no, if you’re uneasy. Otherwise, dive in, meet welcoming and excited local folks.
Where to stay in Agra
If you’re on a trip to Delhi, odds are, a quick jaunt to Agra is on your itinerary. But here’s a hot tip: don’t limit yourself to a one-day rush, especially if you aim to catch the majestic Taj Mahal basking in the hues of dawn or dusk. Yeah, it takes some time, but worth it. Agra has a basket full of stay-in options, right from pocket-friendly guesthouses to royal suites giving you a front row seat to the Taj Mahal grandeur. So if you can, give a night to Agra. Take a look at the Taj Ganj, a prime spot, huddled up beside the infamous monument. This place gives you a mix, from hostels, guesthouses, to decent hotels. It’s also got a culinary scene humming with North Indian and Mughlai flavors. While there, get a load of the craft scene, it’s brimming with Taj Mahal miniatures, marble art, and shining semi-precious stones. Want more swank? Step up to Fatehabad Road. A short spin from Taj Ganj, this place pays host to top-end hotels and fancy resorts. The best part is the magnificence of Taj Mahal is just a glance away from most of their plush suite rooms or rooftop dining spaces.