About Taj Mahal, Agra
The Taj Mahal is a mausoleum built by Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died in childbirth in 1631. Set on the bank of the Yamuna River, it was designed as an earthly image of paradise, with a quartered garden, flowing water and a gleaming white marble tomb inlaid with semi precious stones. Verses from the Quran in black marble frame its great arches.
Although best known as a monument to love, the complex is also a religious space: a working mosque stands on its western side and Friday prayers are held there, so the Taj closes to tourists on Fridays. The real graves of the emperor and his wife lie in a lower crypt beneath the cenotaphs.
What to see
- Main tomb with pietra dura inlay
- Quranic calligraphy around the arches
- Charbagh garden and reflecting pool
- Taj Mahal mosque and guesthouse
- View from Mehtab Bagh across the Yamuna
Visiting Taj Mahal, Agra: practical guide
- Best time
- October to March
- Hours
- Sunrise to sunset; closed Fridays; night viewing near full moon
- Entry
- About INR 50 for Indians and INR 1,100 for foreigners; extra for the main mausoleum
- Dress code
- Modest clothing; shoe covers provided
- Nearest airport
- Agra Airport (AGR), 12 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Arrive at sunrise for soft light and fewer crowds
- Food, tobacco and large bags are not allowed
- Buy tickets online to skip queues
Festivals and special days
- Urs of Shah Jahan
- Taj Mahotsav
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Islam tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Dress modestly, covering arms and legs; women usually cover their hair in mosques.
- Remove shoes before entering the prayer hall.
- Avoid visiting during prayer times unless invited, and never walk in front of someone praying.
- Be discreet about eating, drinking and smoking in public during Ramadan days.
- Use your right hand for eating and giving or receiving items.
- Some mosques and the holy cities of Mecca and Medina are closed to non-Muslims.
Location map
Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions
Frequently asked questions
Where is Taj Mahal, Agra?
Taj Mahal, Agra is in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India, Asia. GPS coordinates: 27.1751, 78.0421. The nearest airport is Agra Airport (AGR), 12 km.
What is the best time to visit Taj Mahal, Agra?
October to March
Is there an entry fee for Taj Mahal, Agra?
About INR 50 for Indians and INR 1,100 for foreigners; extra for the main mausoleum Opening hours: Sunrise to sunset; closed Fridays; night viewing near full moon
What should I wear when visiting Taj Mahal, Agra?
Modest clothing; shoe covers provided
Which religion is Taj Mahal, Agra sacred to?
Taj Mahal, Agra is sacred to Islam. Museum or heritage site. It is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
