The Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is a timeless symbol of love and one of India’s most visited monuments. Located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, this white marble mausoleum attracts millions of tourists from across the globe every year. If you’re planning a visit to this iconic structure, knowing the exact timings, how to reach it, and entry rules can help you make the most of your experience. In this blog, we’ll explore the Taj Mahal’s opening hours, travel tips, best visiting times, and other useful information and Taj Mahal Timings.
How to Reach the Taj Mahal
Agra is well connected to major cities in India by air, rail, and road, making it easy for travelers to reach the Taj Mahal from anywhere in the country.
By Air:
The nearest airport is Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport (Agra Airport), located around 13 kilometers from the Taj Mahal. However, flight options are limited. For better connectivity, travelers can fly to Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi (about 230 km away) and then take a train or drive to Agra.
By Train:
Agra has excellent rail connectivity. The main railway stations are:
- Agra Cantt (AGC) – the primary station for most long-distance trains
- Agra Fort
- Raja Ki Mandi
Fast trains like the Gateman Express and Shatabdi Express connect Delhi to Agra in under 2 hours, making it perfect for a same day trip.
By Road:
Agra is well connected via national highways. The Yamuna Expressway provides a smooth, 3-hour drive from Delhi. Buses and private taxis are easily available from major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Gwalior.
Local Transport to the Taj Mahal:
Once in Agra, you can hire an auto rickshaw, cycle rickshaw, electric rickshaw, or taxi to reach the Taj Mahal. Battery-operated vehicles are preferred near the monument to reduce pollution. Parking areas are located a short distance from the monument, and shuttle services are available to take you to the gates.
General Opening Hours of the Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset, which roughly translates to:
- Opening Time: Around 6:00 AM
- Closing Time: Around 6:30 PM
These timings may vary slightly depending on the season. During summer, sunrise occurs earlier, while in winter, it is a bit later. However, the general guideline remains consistent that the monument is open from sunrise to sunset every day except Friday.
Taj Mahal Weekly Off (Friday Closure)
The Taj Mahal remains closed on Fridays for general visitors.On this day, entry to the mosque within the complex for afternoon prayers is allowed only for Muslims. Entry is not permitted for tourists on Fridays, so it is important that your trip is planned accordingly.
Night Viewing of the Taj Mahal
Apart from the daytime visit, the Taj Mahal also offers night viewing, which is a unique and magical experience. The white marble glows beautifully under the moonlight, offering a different perspective of the monument. However, night viewing is only available on specific days.
Night Viewing Timings:
- Between 8:30 PM and 12:30 AM
- Staff allow visitors in 8 batches of 50 people each.
- Each batch is allowed 30 minutes inside
Available Days for Night Viewing:
- Full moon night
- Two days before and two days after the full moon
That means night viewing is available for five nights each month, centered around the full moon. However, night viewing is not available on Fridays and during the month of Ramadan.
Ticket Counter and Entry Time Slots
To avoid overcrowding and enhance the visitor experience, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has implemented time slots for entry. Visitors can book tickets online or at the ticket counters.
Entry Time Slots:
- From 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM, divided into hourly slots
- Visitors should enter during their booked time slot.
- We recommend online booking to skip queues and ensure availability.
You can book tickets through the official ASI website or at the counters near the Eastern and Western gates.
Entry Gates and Best Time to Visit
There are three main entry gates to the Taj Mahal:
- East Gate
- West Gate
- South Gate (used primarily for exit)
The East Gate is usually less crowded and more convenient for early morning visits. The West Gate sees the highest number of visitors, especially during weekends and holidays.
Best Time to Visit:
- Early Morning (6:00 AM to 9:00 AM): Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and soft natural lighting for photography.
- Evening Hours (after 4:00 PM): Pleasant lighting and weather, especially from October to March.
- Full Moon Nights: Ideal for romantic or photographic purposes.
Avoid visiting during national holidays or weekends if you prefer a more peaceful experience.
Final Tips
- Arrive Early: To avoid long queues and capture the Taj in soft morning light.
- Carry ID Proof: Especially for online ticket holders.
- Avoid Carrying Large Bags: Security personnel enforce strict checks, and they may restrict large items.
- Respect the Rules: Do not take photographs inside the main mausoleum. You must wear foot covers inside.
Conclusion
Whether you’re an early riser eager to catch the sunrise over the Yamuna River or a romantic soul wishing to see the Taj Mahal bathed in moonlight, understanding the Taj Mahal’s timings and how to reach it is key to planning a memorable visit. With the right planning and awareness, your trip to this architectural marvel will be both seamless and unforgettable.