Taj Mahal Tickets: The Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, is one of India’s most iconic monuments. Known for its breathtaking white marble architecture and Mughal artistry, it draws millions of domestic and international visitors each year. Planning a visit requires understanding the ticket structure, timings, and online booking options to make your experience smooth and memorable.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Dharmapuri, Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India |
| Day Visit Hours | Sunrise to Sunset (~6:00 AM – 6:30 PM), Closed on Fridays |
| Night Viewing | Full moon nights (2 days before & after), booking required |
| Entry Fee (Indian) | ₹50 (plus ₹200 for mausoleum) |
| Entry Fee (Foreign) | ₹1,100 (plus ₹200 for mausoleum) |
| Children | Free (under 15 years) |
| ID Requirement | Valid government-issued ID matching booking details |
| Prohibited Items | Large bags, food, tobacco, tripods, drones |
Taj Mahal Ticket Prices (Day Visit)
Visiting the Taj Mahal involves two charges: the general entry fee and an additional fee for the main mausoleum. Children under 15 enjoy free entry.
Ticket Price Table
| Visitor Category | Entry Fee (Excl. Mausoleum) | Mausoleum Access (Additional) | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indian Citizens | ₹50 | ₹200 | ₹250 |
| SAARC & BIMSTEC Citizens | ₹540 | ₹200 | ₹740 |
| Foreign Nationals | ₹1,100 | ₹200 | ₹1,300 |
| Children (<15 years) | Free | Free | Free |
Tip: Booking tickets online is recommended to avoid long queues, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Taj Mahal Night Viewing Tickets
Night viewing offers a magical experience of the monument under moonlight. Tickets are available only on full moon nights and two days before and after, excluding Fridays. Advance booking (24 hours prior) is mandatory.
| Visitor Category | Ticket Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Adults | ₹510 | Full moon viewing |
| Foreign Adults | ₹750 | Booking through ASI office required |
| Children (3–15 years) | ₹500 | Same rules as adults |
Ticket site
Visit official website.
How to Book Taj Mahal Tickets
Online Booking (Recommended)
- Official portal: ASI Agra Circle
- Benefits:
- Save time and avoid long queues
- Discounted foreigner ticket rates
- Secure mausoleum entry
Offline Booking
- Available at Western and Eastern Gates.
- Eastern Gate usually has shorter queues.
- Southern Gate is for exit only.
ID Requirement: Carry a valid government-issued ID matching your ticket details.
What to Bring & Prohibited Items
Allowed
- Valid ID proof
- Water bottle
- Shoe covers (for foreign visitors)
- Tourist guide map, battery bus, golf cart services
Prohibited
- Large bags
- Food and tobacco products
- Tripods or drones
- Any items restricted by ASI
Venue
Nearby Attractions in Agra
Visiting the Taj Mahal is best combined with other historical monuments in Agra:
| Attraction | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Agra Fort | 2.5 km | UNESCO site, Mughal architecture |
| Fatehpur Sikri | 40 km | Historical walled city, royal palaces |
| Itimad-ud-Daulah | 4 km | “Baby Taj,” intricate marble inlay |
| Mehtab Bagh | 1 km | Sunset views of Taj Mahal from Yamuna river |
| Ram Bagh | 2 km | Historic garden for relaxation |
Taj Mahotsav 2026 – Cultural Festival
Taj Mahotsav, held annually near the Taj Mahal (Shilpgram, East Gate), showcases India’s art, craft, culture, and cuisine.
- Dates: 18 – 27 February 2026
- Highlights:
- Folk & classical music performances
- Artisans from across India exhibiting handicrafts
- Traditional cuisine & gourmet delights
- Massive crowds with ~6 million visitors in previous editions
Attending during the festival gives a unique cultural perspective alongside your Taj Mahal visit.
Taj Mahal – Schedule & Events
Event / Activity Timing / Dates Notes Day Visits Sunrise to Sunset (~6:00 AM – 6:30 PM) Closed on Fridays for prayers Night Viewing Full moon nights (2 days before & after) Booking 24 hours in advance required Ticket Counters 1 hour before sunrise – 45 min before sunset Western & Eastern Gates; Eastern Gate usually shorter queues Taj Mahotsav 2026 18 – 27 February 2026 Art, craft, culture & cuisine festival at Shilpgram, East Gate Special Performances During Taj Mahotsav Folk, classical, Bollywood, and Sufi music performances
Do’s & Don’ts
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Book tickets online in advance | Don’t carry prohibited items |
| Visit early to avoid crowds | Don’t ignore monument rules |
| Carry valid ID proof | Don’t climb on walls or touch carvings |
| Respect prayer areas and silence | Don’t litter or damage heritage |
Final Tips
- Plan for 3–4 hours for a full Taj Mahal experience, including gardens and mausoleum.
- Photography: Allowed in open areas; restricted in the mausoleum.
- Guides & Tours: Hiring certified guides enriches your understanding of Mughal history.
- Weather Considerations: Summers are hot; monsoons can be humid; best visiting time is October to March.
A visit to the Taj Mahal is not just sightseeing—it’s an immersive experience of India’s rich history, architecture, and cultural heritage. Proper planning, online booking, and awareness of rules ensure a smooth, memorable, and respectful visit.
FAQs
1. What is the entry fee for the Taj Mahal?
- Indian visitors: ₹50 (plus ₹200 for mausoleum access)
- SAARC/BIMSTEC visitors: ₹540 (plus ₹200)
- Foreign nationals: ₹1,100 (plus ₹200)
- Children under 15: Free
2. Can I book Taj Mahal tickets online?
Yes. Tickets can be booked online via the ASI Agra Circle website to avoid long queues.
3. What are the visiting hours?
- Day visits: Sunrise to Sunset (~6:00 AM – 6:30 PM)
- Closed: Fridays for prayers
- Night visits: Full moon nights and 2 days before/after (booking required)
4. Are there any ID requirements?
Yes. Visitors must carry a valid government-issued ID matching the ticket details.
5. What items are prohibited inside the Taj Mahal?
Large bags, food, tobacco products, tripods, and drones are strictly prohibited.
6. What is Taj Mahotsav and when is it held?
Taj Mahotsav is a 10-day cultural festival near the Taj Mahal (Shilpgram, East Gate), featuring arts, crafts, cuisine, and music. In 2026, it will be held 18 – 27 February.
7. Is night viewing available for all visitors?
Night viewing is available for Indian and foreign visitors, but tickets must be booked 24 hours in advance through the ASI office.
8. Are children allowed for night viewing?
Yes, children aged 3–15 can attend night viewing with a separate ticket.
About The Author
