Taj Mahal Details

⏰ Taj Mahal Timings

The Taj Mahal is open six days a week (closed on Fridays) and welcomes visitors from sunrise to sunset. Special night viewings are available on selected days.

Type of Visit Opening Hours Closing Hours Days Open
General Visit (Daytime) 6:00 AM 6:30 PM Monday – Thursday, Saturday – Sunday
Sunrise Visit 5:30 AM 7:00 AM Monday – Thursday, Saturday – Sunday
Night Viewing 8:30 PM 12:30 AM Only on Full Moon Night & Two Days Before & After

Taj Mahal Entry Ticket Prices

The Taj Mahal entry fees vary for Indian and foreign tourists. Additional charges apply for visiting the main mausoleum.

Category Entry Fee (Without Mausoleum Access) Entry Fee (With Mausoleum Access)
Indian Citizens ₹50 ₹250
SAARC & BIMSTEC Nationals ₹540 ₹740
Foreign Tourists ₹1100 ₹1300
Children (Below 15 Years) Free Free
Night Viewing (Indian Citizens) ₹510 -
Night Viewing (Foreign Nationals) ₹750 -

Taj Mahal Timings and Entrance Fees 2025: Your Ultimate Guide to India's Crown Jewel

The Taj Mahal, a symphony in white marble built by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1632 as a tribute to his beloved Mumtaz Mahal, stands as one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Overlooking the Yamuna River in Agra, this eternal symbol of love draws 8 million visitors annually, offering breathtaking views at dawn and dusk.

In this comprehensive 2025 guide—updated with the latest Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) details—we cover timings, entry fees, booking hacks, and pro tips to ensure your visit is magical, not missed. Whether you're chasing the soft pink hues of sunrise or the moonlit glow of a special night viewing, planning ahead unlocks the monument's full splendor.

As Agra locals with over a decade of guiding pilgrims, we've distilled the essentials below. Ready to step into history? Let's dive in.

Taj Mahal Timings 2025: Plan Your Perfect Darshan Slot

The Taj Mahal's hours sync with the sun's rhythm, ensuring natural light bathes its intricate pietra dura inlays and minarets. Open daily except Fridays (reserved for prayers), the monument adjusts seasonally for sunrise/sunset—always verify via the ASI app for minor shifts due to equinoxes.

Daytime general access runs from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes before sunset (e.g., 5:30 AM–7:00 PM in winter). Enter via East (sunrise views), West (locals), or South Gate (exits only post-2025 updates).

Sunrise viewing opens 30 minutes before dawn—ideal from October to March with cooler 15–25°C mornings. For 2025's peak Holi (March 14) or Diwali crowds, opt for weekday sunrises to avoid long queues.

Night viewing happens five nights monthly—full moon plus two days before and after—from 8:30 PM to 12:30 AM in 30-minute slots (50 visitors max). Book 24 hours ahead; not available on Fridays.

Fridays remain fully closed for tourists with occasional weather or maintenance alerts via ASI. Sunset slots (4–6 PM) capture the golden glow Shah Jahan cherished from his prison in Agra Fort.

Taj Mahal Entry Fees 2025: Budget Breakdown for Every Traveler

ASI keeps access affordable with tiered pricing reflecting heritage preservation costs. Fees split into garden entry versus main mausoleum (Shah Jahan & Mumtaz's cenotaphs)—pay extra for the inner sanctum's intimate vibe.

Carry photo ID; kids under 15 enter free with proof. All 2025 rates include video filming; no re-entry allowed.

Indian citizens pay ₹50 for garden entry and ₹200 extra for the mausoleum. Night viewing costs ₹510 flat for Indians.

Foreign tourists pay ₹1,100 for garden access plus ₹200 for the mausoleum. Night viewing for foreigners is ₹750.

SAARC and BIMSTEC nationals follow foreign rates but get slight discounts on add-ons. Audio guides cost ₹150 per person in English, Hindi, French, or German.

Battery cars or e-rickshaws run ₹20–90 per person round-trip (mandatory 500m from gates). Shoe covers are ₹10 per pair with free lockers for bags.

Group perks: 10+ visitors get 10% off via ASI bulk booking. These rates remain stable from 2024 per ASI's November 2025 confirmation.

How to Book Taj Mahal Tickets Online 2025: Skip the Lines Effortlessly

ASI's digital push makes 2025 bookings seamless, cutting wait times by 80% during peak seasons. Advance purchase is mandatory for night views; daytime slots are recommended from October to March.

Book via asiagracircle.in or tajmahal.gov.in—select "Taj Mahal," choose gate and slot, then pay via UPI, card, or net banking. E-tickets are QR-scanned at entry; book 1–30 days ahead.

On-site counters at East and West Gates accept cash or UPI—avoid touts selling fake tickets. Combo deals with Agra Fort or Fatehpur Sikri save ₹50–100 for Indians.

Night booking is exclusive to the ASI site with slots filling 48 hours before full moon dates (e.g., Jan 13, Feb 12). Use East Gate for sunrise to enjoy less-crowded Yamuna reflections.

Foreigners can call ASI helpline +91-562-2330498 for visa-linked queries. Online fees match offline with no surcharges.

Best Time to Visit Taj Mahal in 2025: Seasons, Weather & Crowd Hacks

Mother Nature enhances the Taj's chameleon-like glow—from rose at dawn to amber at dusk. 2025's climate patterns favor October to March for comfortable visits.

Winter (Oct–Mar) offers cool 15–25°C mornings perfect for 2–3 hour wanders. Sunrise slots at 5:30 AM provide fog-veiled romance—avoid noon heat.

Summer (Apr–Jun) requires early AM or PM visits due to 40°C+ temperatures. Low crowds but intense sun—carry hats and hydrate heavily.

Monsoon (Jul–Sep) brings lush gardens and 50% fewer visitors with occasional rain. Mid-morning visits shine after showers clear the air.

Festive peaks like Holi (Mar 14) and Republic Day (Jan 26) draw huge crowds—book 90 days early. Weekdays beat weekends for serene experiences.

2025's mild El Niño forecast means drier winters—ideal for outdoor yoga at Mehtab Bagh (opposite Taj views, ₹300 entry). Sunset slots capture the monument's famous golden hour.

Brief History and Must-See Highlights Inside the Taj Mahal

Commissioned in 1632 and completed in 1653, the Taj Mahal fused Persian, Islamic, and Indian styles under architect Ustad Ahmad Lahori. 20,000 artisans labored 22 years on this ₹32 million (then) opus symbolizing undying love.

The main dome and cenotaphs feature intricate floral jali screens—whisper a wish and acoustics carry it upward. Diana Bench in the forecourt offers the iconic symmetrical photo with minarets framing the dome.

Rear arches provide Yamuna River views of Shah Jahan's "paradise garden" reflection. Museums in East and West wings display artifacts like Mumtaz's replicas—included in entry.

The Taj "weeps" during monsoons—rain reveals hidden Quranic verses in shadow play. Allow 2–3 hours to explore this living monument of love.

Essential Tips for Your Taj Mahal Visit in 2025

Dress modestly with covered shoulders and knees—remove shoes at the mausoleum (socks advised). No food, tobacco, or plastic allowed—use lockers at gates.

Carry ID, water (refill stations inside), hat, and sunscreen. Wheelchair ramps and Braille guides ensure accessibility for all.

Battery cars are non-negotiable for seniors and kids in 2025's eco-zones. Pair sunrise Taj with afternoon Agra Fort—10-minute rickshaw ride, ₹300 taxi.

ASI enforces a plastic ban—use reusable bottles to support sustainability. Masks are optional with sanitized queues and hand stations at entry.

Free child entry plus storytelling guides (₹400) turn history into family adventure. Arrive hydrated for the 1-km walk from gates to monument.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Taj Mahal Timings & Fees 2025

Q: What are the Taj Mahal timings on Fridays in 2025?
A: Closed for general visitors—open only for mosque prayers. Plan mid-week for seamless access.

Q: Is there an extra charge for the Taj Mahal mausoleum in 2025?
A: Yes, ₹200 add-on atop garden entry—worth it for the cenotaph's hushed intimacy.

Q: How much is the Taj Mahal entry fee for Indians 2025?
A: ₹50 garden + ₹200 mausoleum; free for under-15s. Night viewing: ₹510 flat.

Q: Can I book Taj Mahal night viewing tickets online for 2025?
A: Mandatory via ASI site—slots 24 hours prior; full moon dates like Jan 13 fill fast.

Q: What's the best gate for Taj Mahal sunrise timings 2025?
A: East Gate—stunning Yamuna reflections; opens 30 mins pre-dawn.

Q: Are drones allowed at Taj Mahal?
A: No—banned for security; stick to phone cams for Insta-worthy shots.

Q: Any 2025 changes to Taj Mahal entry fees?
A: Stable per ASI—no hikes; confirm via official app for updates.

Taj Mahal Tour Packages Prices

Are you Looking for the Taj Mahal Tour Packages? Below is a detailed Taj Mahal Packages price comparison with itinerary details, duration, and cost breakdown to help you choose the right trip.

Taj Mahal Tour Packages Duration Sightseeing Places Estimated Price (Per Pax)
Same Day Agra Tour by Car From Delhi Same Day Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Mehtab Bagh ₹6,500
Same Day Agra Tour by Train Same Day Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Itimad-ud-Daulah ₹7,200
Sunrise Taj Mahal Tour From Delhi Same Day Sunrise at Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Local Market ₹6,800
Sunrise to Sunset Tour by Car Same Day Sunrise at Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri ₹7,500
Agra Overnight Tour From Delhi By Car 1 Night / 2 Days Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Mehtab Bagh, Local Markets ₹10,500
Same Day Agra Tour By Shatabdi Express Train Same Day Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Itimad-ud-Daulah ₹8,000
Same Day Mumbai Agra Tour Same Day Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri ₹12,500
Day Trip Delhi Jaipur Tour Day Trip Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jal Mahal ₹9,500

Additional Charges & Facilities

  • Battery-Operated Vehicle: ₹20 per person
  • Shoe Covers for Mausoleum: ₹10
  • Photography: Free (No tripods allowed inside the monument)

Best Time to Visit Taj Mahal

Season Best Visiting Time Weather Conditions
Winter (October - February) Morning (Sunrise) Cool & Pleasant
Summer (March - June) Evening (Sunset) Hot, Avoid Midday
Monsoon (July - September) Daytime or Night Viewing Rainy, Fewer Crowds

Important Travel Tips

  • Carry Valid ID Proof: Aadhar Card / Passport required at entry.
  • Avoid Friday Visits: The monument remains closed on Fridays.
  • No Food or Large Bags: Security checks restrict carrying food, big bags, or electronic items inside.
  • Best Photography Spot: Diana Bench & Mehtab Bagh offer the best Taj Mahal photo opportunities.

Others Places Ticket Price in Agra

Places Highlights Timings Entry Fee
Agra Fort Massive Red Sandstone Fort, Mughal Architecture 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Open Daily) ₹50 (Indians), ₹650 (Foreigners), Free for children below 15
Fatehpur Sikri Historical Mughal City, Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Open Daily) ₹50 (Indians), ₹610 (Foreigners)
Mehtab Bagh Scenic Garden with Taj Mahal View 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Open Daily) ₹30 (Indians), ₹300 (Foreigners)
Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb "Baby Taj", First Mughal Marble Mausoleum 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Open Daily) ₹30 (Indians), ₹310 (Foreigners)
Akbar’s Tomb Resting Place of Emperor Akbar, Mughal Architecture 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Open Daily) ₹30 (Indians), ₹310 (Foreigners)