Unveiling the Taj Mahal: A Visitor’s Guide to Timings, Ticket Prices, and More
The Taj Mahal, a testament to eternal love and architectural brilliance, beckons millions of visitors each year. To ensure you make the most of your visit, let’s dive into the essential details regarding timings, ticket prices, and more.
1. Taj Mahal Timings:
- Normal Operating Days: The Taj Mahal opens its gates 30 minutes before sunrise and closes 30 minutes before sunset.
- Exceptions: Closed on Fridays for general viewing due to prayers.
- Night Viewing: Experience the ethereal beauty during full moons. The Taj Mahal remains open for night viewing from 8:30 PM to 12:30 AM on full moon nights, plus two days before and after the full moon, totaling five days.
2. Ticket Prices:
- Domestic/Indian/OCI Cardholder: ₹50 + ₹200 (inclusive of ASI & ADA fees).
- Additional ₹200 for visiting the main mausoleum (optional).
- Foreign Tourist: ₹1100 + ₹200 (inclusive of ASI & ADA fees).
- Additional ₹200 for visiting the main mausoleum (optional).
- Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC Countries: ₹540 + ₹200 (inclusive of ASI & ADA fees).
- Additional ₹200 for visiting the main mausoleum (optional).
- Children Below 15 Years: No entry fee (both Domestic and Foreigner).
3. Ticket Outlets:
- Tickets can be purchased at the entry gate ticket counters.
- Taj Mahal Western Gate: Tickets available near Saheli Burj. (Timing: One hour before sunrise until 45 minutes before sunset).
- Taj Mahal Eastern Gate: Tickets available at the Eastern Gate of Taj Mahal. (Timing: One hour before sunrise until 45 minutes before sunset).
- Taj Mahal Southern Gate: Currently, only exit is allowed; no entry is permitted.
4. Important Notes:
- Night viewing is only available on full moon nights and two days before and after.
- The main mausoleum visit is optional and incurs an additional ₹200.
- Taj Mahal is closed for general viewing on Fridays but remains open on all other days.
5. Plan Your Visit:
- Weekdays: Choose weekdays for a quieter experience.
- Sunrise/Sunset: Witness the Taj Mahal bathed in the golden hues of sunrise or sunset.
- Full Moon Nights: Experience the magical aura during night viewing on and around full moon nights.
Now armed with this information, plan your journey to the Taj Mahal and immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of this architectural wonder. Whether it’s the serenity of sunrise, the grandeur of sunset, or the enchantment of moonlit nights, the Taj Mahal promises an experience like no other.
