The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, India, is one of the most iconic symbols of love and architectural brilliance. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, this UNESCO World Heritage site attracts millions of tourists from across the globe each year. Visiting the Taj Mahal is a dream for many, and planning your trip, including knowing the ticket prices and booking options, is essential for a smooth experience.
In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about visiting the Taj Mahal, including the current ticket prices, how to book tickets online or offline, tips for visiting, and the best times to see this magnificent monument.
1. Taj Mahal Ticket Price: Understanding the Cost Breakdown
The ticket prices for visiting the Taj Mahal vary depending on nationality, the areas you wish to access, and whether you book your tickets online or offline. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the current prices (as of 2024):
a. Taj Mahal Entry Fees for Indian Citizens:
- Basic Entry Ticket (for Main Mausoleum and General Access): ₹50 per person
- Main Mausoleum Access (additional charge): ₹200 per person
- Children (below 15 years): Free entry
b. Taj Mahal Entry Fees for SAARC and BIMSTEC Countries:
Visitors from SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) and BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) countries benefit from reduced ticket prices.
- Basic Entry Ticket: ₹540 per person
- Main Mausoleum Access (additional charge): ₹200 per person
- Children (below 15 years): Free entry
Countries in the SAARC group include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, while BIMSTEC countries include Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
c. Taj Mahal Entry Fees for Foreign Nationals:
- Basic Entry Ticket: ₹1,100 per person
- Main Mausoleum Access (additional charge): ₹200 per person
- Children (below 15 years): Free entry
d. Additional Fees:
- Photography: No extra charge for still cameras. However, tripods are not allowed inside the premises.
- Video Recording: Video cameras are allowed for an additional charge of ₹25.
- Electric Cart or Golf Cart (Optional): ₹20 per person for a ride from the parking lot to the Taj Mahal entrance.
- Shoe Covers: Required for entry into the main mausoleum. Shoe covers are included in the ticket price for foreign nationals and can be purchased separately by other visitors.
e. Special Night Viewing Tickets For Taj Mahal:
The Taj Mahal offers night viewing tickets on full moon nights and two days before and after the full moon (a total of five days per month). These special tickets allow you to witness the Taj Mahal under the moonlight, which is a surreal experience.
- Ticket Price for Indian Citizens: ₹510 per person
- Ticket Price for Foreign Nationals: ₹750 per person
- Children (3 to 15 years): ₹500 per person
These tickets are limited and must be booked in advance, as only 400 visitors are allowed per night, divided into eight batches of 50 people each.
2. How to Book Taj Mahal Tickets Online: A Step-by-Step Guide
Booking Taj Mahal tickets online is a convenient option, especially for foreign tourists or those planning their visit in advance. Here’s a step-by-step guide to booking tickets online:
a. Official Website for Online Booking:
The official website for booking Taj Mahal tickets is ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) website. This platform allows you to book tickets for various monuments in India, including the Taj Mahal.
b. Steps to Book Online:
- Visit the Website: Open the official ASI website or the Taj Mahal’s dedicated page for ticket booking.
- Select the Monument: Choose “Taj Mahal” from the list of monuments.
- Select Your Ticket Type: Choose the ticket type based on your nationality (Indian, SAARC/BIMSTEC, or foreign national) and the access you want (basic entry or including the main mausoleum).
- Choose Date and Time Slot: Select the date of your visit and the available time slot. The Taj Mahal is open from sunrise to sunset (closed on Fridays).
- Enter Visitor Details: Provide your details such as name, nationality, and identification proof (e.g., passport or Aadhaar card for Indian citizens).
- Make Payment: Complete the payment using the available online payment options (credit/debit card, net banking, etc.).
- Receive Confirmation: Once the payment is successful, you will receive an email confirmation with your e-ticket. You can either print this ticket or show the digital copy at the entrance.
c. Booking Night Viewing Tickets Online:
For night viewing, tickets are available on the official website as well, but they must be booked well in advance due to limited availability. Make sure to check the dates for full moon viewing and plan accordingly.
3. How to Book Taj Mahal Tickets Offline: Options and Process
If you prefer to book your tickets in person or you find yourself in Agra without pre-booked tickets, there are several offline options available:
a. Ticket Counters:
- Western Gate: This is the main entrance used by most tourists. The ticket counter here opens an hour before sunrise and remains open until an hour before sunset.
- Eastern Gate: Another popular entrance, especially for foreign tourists. The ticket counter at the Eastern Gate follows the same timings as the Western Gate.
- Southern Gate: This gate is used primarily by locals and tourists visiting from within the city. However, the Southern Gate ticket counter is only open until 5:00 PM, after which no entry is allowed.
b. Process:
- Arrive Early: It’s advisable to arrive early, especially during peak tourist seasons (October to March), as the ticket counters can get crowded.
- Choose Your Ticket Type: Similar to the online process, select your ticket based on nationality and the areas you wish to access (general entry or including the main mausoleum).
- Make Payment: Payment can be made in cash (Indian Rupees) or via card at most counters. International cards may not always be accepted, so carrying some cash is a good idea.
- Receive Your Ticket: Once payment is made, you will receive a paper ticket that grants you access to the Taj Mahal.
c. Night Viewing Tickets Offline:
Night viewing tickets can also be purchased at the Taj Mahal ticket counter (located at the Archaeological Survey of India office near the western gate) a day before the full moon night. These tickets are limited, and it is best to arrive early to secure your spot.
4. Tips for Visiting the Taj Mahal
Here are some essential tips to enhance your visit to the Taj Mahal:
a. Best Time to Visit:
- Early Morning: Visiting the Taj Mahal at sunrise is highly recommended to avoid the crowds and witness the monument bathed in the soft morning light.
- Winter Months: October to March is the best time to visit Agra as the weather is pleasant. However, mornings can be foggy, so check the weather forecast before planning your visit.
- Full Moon Nights: If you’re interested in night viewing, plan your visit around the full moon for a unique experience.
b. Dress Code and Etiquette:
- While there’s no strict dress code, it’s advisable to dress modestly out of respect for the site’s cultural and historical significance.
- Shoe covers are required to enter the main mausoleum to protect the marble floors.
- Refrain from littering, and respect the monument’s rules and regulations.
c. Photography Tips:
- The best spots for photographs are from the gardens in front of the Taj Mahal and the platforms near the mosque. Early morning light is ideal for capturing the beauty of the monument.
- Drones and tripods are not allowed inside the Taj Mahal premises, so plan accordingly.
d. Security Measures:
- Visitors are subject to security checks at the entrance. Large bags, food, and tobacco products are not allowed inside the Taj Mahal. Carry only essential items like your camera, phone, wallet, and water.
5. Conclusion
Visiting the Taj Mahal is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that requires careful planning. Whether you choose to book your tickets online or offline, knowing the current prices, booking process, and essential tips will ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to this iconic monument.
Remember to check for any changes in ticket prices or visiting hours before your trip, as they may vary based on government regulations. Most importantly, take your time to soak in the beauty of the Taj Mahal, an eternal symbol of love and architectural marvel.