Tips and tricks for visiting the Taj Mahal.
Visiting the Taj Mahal can be confusing, as information isn’t alway clear or shared ahead of time – here’s what you really need to know when planning to see this incredible Wonder of the World:
You can purchase non-refundable tickets online. It saves time from having to stop by the ticket booth where the line can get quite long.
The ticket requires a photo identification when you arrive, though this often depends on the security person. Bring your license or passport just in case!
Like many sites in India, there are different queues for foreigners and locals, men and women.
There is no dress code, though visitors tend to dress conservatively, often in traditional Indian attire.
You can bring in a bag, however it will need to go through a second scan. Without a bag, you will be waved through security.
A water bottle is allegedly provided with the ticket – it might be something you have to ask for, as we didn’t see anyone receiving one.
There is no food or beverage allowed otherwise. There are cafes and local eateries outside the Taj for a stop before/after.
As you enter the recommended Western Gate, there are no rickshaws or cars allowed for pollution prevention. Instead, you can park or take a car to the surrounding parking lots and a golf cart will take you most of the way there. There are also hotels within walking distance!
There are dozens of tour guides stationed outside. These guides can also double as photographers.
Photographers will also be located on the inside for mini photoshoots if you decide you want a professional photo.
The Taj Mahal is open sunrise to sunset.
The colors of the Taj change depending on the time of day – often hues of pink, white or gold.
Visitors can begin queuing 30 minutes prior to sunrise and then are let in just as the sun rises. This is when I would recommend visiting!
Have an idea of what photos you want to take as soon as you walk in. Prioritize those spots before it gets too busy! The first glimpse as you walk in, the photos in front of the reflection pools and the mosque to the left side are the most popular. A photo on “Diana’s bench” will be nearly impossible shortly after opening.
The Taj is completely symmetrical but the Mosque is only on the left side. You will have to take your shoes off!
The main Mausoleum is open to visitors but requires a separate ticket. Again, no shoes unless you opt for the protective shoe covers. Once inside, you have to move fairly quickly around the tombs. Though the bodies are actually buried further below the tomb, this is considered a sacred site so they request low voices and photography is prohibited.
Even so, a guide inside might explain the design, architecture and symbolism of the Mausoleum, even offering a blessing – be ready to give a tip if so.
The gardens around the Taj are worth a stroll. They are immaculate and offer unique views away from the crowds.
Watch out for the monkeys! They hang out in the outer grounds and trees. Though they mainly keep to themselves, don’t feed or provoke them.
Also keep an eye out for the bright green parrots that call the Taj home.
There are plenty of other views of the Taj without entering, including Agra Fort, the Mehtab Bagh Gardens across the Yamuna River and the not-so-secret Chhartis by the river, though nothing beats standing in front of it.
There is a 3 hour limit, though it is likely you could get away with staying longer.
There are full moon night tours so check the lunar calendar before arriving.
The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays for prayer so avoid disappointment and plan on visiting any other day of the week.
Agra honestly isn’t my favorite city. Even so, traveling to see the Taj is worth it.
