Location
Taj Mahal is located in Agra, in the state of Uttar Pradesh, approximately 200 kilometers (125 miles) from Delhi. It's part of India's popular Golden Triangle Tourist Circuit.
When to Go
The best time is from November to February, otherwise it can be unbearably hot or rainy. You'll be able to get some excellent off-season discounts though.
The Taj Mahal appears to gradually alter its color in the changing light of the day. It’s well worth the effort to get up early and spend sunrise there, as it majestically reveals itself. Visiting around dawn will also enable you to beat the huge crowds that start arriving later in the morning.
Getting There
The Taj Mahal can be visited on a day trip from Delhi. Agra is well connected by rail. The main railway station is Agra Cantt. High speed Shatabdi Express services operate from Delhi, Varanasi, and cities in Rajasthan.
The bus is a good option if getting a train isn't possible. Comfortable, air-conditioned Volvo buses depart from Anand Vihar terminal in New Delhi every hour during the day. The cost is about 700 rupees per person. The buses go via the Yamuna Expressway and stop at Vango restaurant for a 30 minute snack and restroom break (the toilets are clean).
Alternatively you can fly from major Indian cities, or take a tour from Delhi.
Opening Hours
6 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day except Friday (when it's closed for prayer). The Taj Mahal is also open for night viewing every full moon from 8.30 p.m. until 12.30 a.m., plus two days before and two days after the full moon (a total of five days). Night viewing is suspended during the holy month of Ramadan every year.
Entry Fees and Information
The price of entry tickets for the Taj Mahal increased in August 2018 and a discount is provided on cashless payments. For foreigners, the cash ticket price is now 1,100 rupees, and 1,050 rupees cashless. Indians only pay 50 rupees cash, and 45 rupees cashless. Children younger than 15 years can enter free. Tickets can be purchased at ticket offices near the entry gates or online at this website.
Night Viewing tickets cost 750 rupees for foreigners and 510 rupees for Indians, for half an hour’s admittance. Children aged three to 15 years must pay 500 rupees. These tickets must be purchased between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., one day in advance from the Archaeological Survey of India office on Mall Road. Vehicles aren't allowed within 500 meters of the Taj Mahal because of pollution.
Security at the Taj Mahal
Strict security is in place at the Taj Mahal, and there are checkpoints at the entrances. Your bag will be scanned and searched. Large bags and day packs aren't allowed to be taken inside. Only small bags containing essential items are permitted. This includes one cell phone, a camera, and a water bottle per person. You can't bring edibles, tobacco products or lighters, electrical items (including phone chargers, headphones, iPads, torches), knives, or camera tripods inside. Cell phones are also banned during night viewing sessions, although cameras are still allowed. Luggage storage facilities are provided at the entry gates.