Taj Mahalagra
A Monument to Eternal Love
Overview
A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, this white marble mausoleum was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.
What To Expect?
A mesmerizing encounter with architectural perfection. Walk through the grand Darwaza (main gateway), admire the reflection of the Taj in the central pool, and witness the incredible Pietra Dura (stone inlay) work inside the main dome. The white marble changes its hue from soft pink at sunrise to brilliant white at noon and golden at sunset.
Tips
- Book tickets online in advance to skip the long physical ticket counters.
- Arrive at the gate 30-45 minutes before sunrise to be among the first to enter.
- Foreigners get a faster entry lane and a complimentary water bottle/shoe covers.
- Night viewing is allowed for 5 nights around the Full Moon (except Fridays and Ramadan).
- Wear comfortable footwear as there is a fair amount of walking involved.
Exploring Taj Mahal
More About the Taj Mahal
Completed in 1648 after 22 years of labor by over 20,000 artisans, the Taj Mahal is a masterpiece of symmetry. It is constructed entirely of white marble brought from Makrana, Rajasthan, and is decorated with 28 types of precious and semi-precious stones.
The complex includes a mosque, a guest house, and a formal Mughal garden. The four minarets surrounding the main dome are slightly tilted outwards, a deliberate engineering feat to ensure they would fall away from the tomb in case of an earthquake.
Exploring a destination...
The joy of travel comes in exploring new things. Discover Agra through its street food—try the famous Agra Petha and Bedai-Kachori.
Use Public Transportation. Electric rickshaws and battery-operated buses are the only vehicles allowed in the Taj Trapezium Zone near the monument.
Find a local festival. Visit during Taj Mahotsav in February to see a 10-day celebration of Indian crafts, music, and dance.
How to reach Taj Mahal
Located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. It is easily accessible via the Yamuna Expressway from Delhi (3 hours). The nearest major railway station is Agra Cantt (6 km away).
Tips for Visiting Taj Mahal, agra
- Book tickets online in advance to skip the long physical ticket counters.
- Arrive at the gate 30-45 minutes before sunrise to be among the first to enter.
- Foreigners get a faster entry lane and a complimentary water bottle/shoe covers.
- Night viewing is allowed for 5 nights around the Full Moon (except Fridays and Ramadan).
- Wear comfortable footwear as there is a fair amount of walking involved.
