Latest Taj Mahal Timings & Ticket Prices 2026 – Complete Visitor Guide
The Taj Mahal is one of India’s most celebrated historical monuments and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located on the banks of the Yamuna River in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, this white-marble mausoleum attracts visitors from across the world. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, it is admired for its architecture, symmetry, marble craftsmanship and historical significance.
Whether you are planning a sunrise visit, a daytime sightseeing trip or a special moonlight experience, knowing the latest Taj Mahal timings, ticket prices, entry rules and booking procedures can help you plan your visit more comfortably.
At Crystal India Holidays, we help travellers plan visits to the Taj Mahal through private tours from Delhi and Agra. This guide brings together practical visitor information, official ticket details and useful travel advice to help you prepare for your 2026 visit.
Quick Information: Taj Mahal Visit
| Visitor Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India |
| Opening time | 30 minutes before sunrise |
| Closing time | 30 minutes before sunset |
| Weekly closing day | Friday for general visitors |
| Indian visitor entry fee | ₹50 |
| SAARC/BIMSTEC visitor entry fee | ₹540 |
| Other foreign visitor entry fee | ₹1,100 |
| Optional main mausoleum fee | Additional ₹200 |
| Children below 15 years | Free |
| Night viewing | Five nights around the full moon, subject to restrictions |
Ticket rates and rules can change. Confirm the final amount on the official booking portal before purchasing.
Taj Mahal Visiting Timings 2026
The Taj Mahal follows sunrise-to-sunset visiting hours rather than a fixed daily opening and closing schedule. This means the exact time changes slightly throughout the year depending on the season and sunrise and sunset times in Agra.
Daily Opening and Closing Timings
The Taj Mahal opens 30 minutes before sunrise and closes 30 minutes before sunset on normal visiting days.
| Timing | Visiting Schedule |
|---|---|
| Opening | 30 minutes before sunrise |
| Closing | 30 minutes before sunset |
| General visiting days | Saturday to Thursday |
| Weekly closure | Friday |
For example, during months when sunrise occurs at approximately 6:00 AM, the monument may open around 5:30 AM. The exact time depends on the date.
Important: Do not rely on a fixed 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM schedule throughout the year. Check the sunrise and sunset times for your travel date.
Seasonal Visiting Timings
The monument follows the same sunrise-to-sunset rule throughout the year, but daylight hours vary.
| Season | What Visitors Should Know |
|---|---|
| October to March | Cooler weather and shorter daylight hours |
| April to June | Early morning visits are preferable because of high temperatures |
| July to September | Monsoon conditions may affect visibility and outdoor sightseeing |
When Is the Taj Mahal Closed?
The Taj Mahal is closed to general visitors every Friday.
The mosque inside the complex remains available for Friday prayers during the designated prayer period. General sightseeing access is not available on that day.
If you are planning a multi-day trip from Delhi, check the weekday before confirming your Agra sightseeing schedule. A Friday visit to the Taj Mahal cannot be treated like a normal sightseeing day.
Travel tip: If your itinerary includes the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and other attractions, schedule the Taj Mahal on a Saturday, Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday.
Taj Mahal Ticket Prices 2026
The Taj Mahal entry fee depends on the visitor’s nationality. The ticket for the main complex and the additional entry to the main mausoleum are charged separately.
Updated Taj Mahal Entry Fees
The following rates are listed on the official Taj Mahal visitor information page.
| Visitor Category | Main Complex Entry Fee | Optional Main Mausoleum Entry |
|---|---|---|
| Indian citizens | ₹50 | +₹200 |
| SAARC/BIMSTEC citizens | ₹540 | +₹200 |
| Other foreign tourists | ₹1,100 | +₹200 |
| Children below 15 years | Free | Free |
Online booking discounts may apply. The official website currently lists a ₹5 discount per Indian ticket and ₹50 per foreign tourist ticket for online bookings.
The final amount displayed by the booking portal should be treated as the payable price.
Ticket Price for Indian Citizens
Indian visitors pay ₹50 for entry to the main Taj Mahal complex. Visitors who want to enter the main mausoleum must purchase the additional ₹200 ticket.
The main complex includes the gardens, pathways, reflecting pools, mosque, guest house and the exterior views of the central mausoleum.
Ticket Price for SAARC and BIMSTEC Citizens
Visitors from eligible SAARC and BIMSTEC countries pay ₹540 for the main complex, with an additional ₹200 for the main mausoleum.
Nationality and eligibility should be checked while selecting the visitor category during online booking.
Ticket Price for Foreign Tourists
The official listed entry fee for other foreign tourists is ₹1,100, with an additional ₹200 for access to the main mausoleum.
Foreign visitors should select the correct nationality category while booking. Keep the passport used for booking available during the visit, as identification may be checked.
Is the Main Mausoleum Ticket Included?
No. Entry to the main mausoleum requires an additional ticket.
The optional ₹200 ticket allows visitors to enter the central tomb chamber, where the cenotaphs of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan are located. The actual graves are in the lower crypt and are not part of the normal visitor route.
Is the extra ticket worth buying?
If this is your first visit and you want to explore the monument beyond its gardens and exterior architecture, the additional ticket is worth considering. It gives you access to an important part of the Taj Mahal experience.
Do Children Need a Taj Mahal Entry Ticket?
Children below 15 years of age are eligible for free entry according to the official visitor information.
Carry appropriate age identification if needed, particularly when travelling with children whose ages may be questioned at the entrance.
Taj Mahal Night Viewing 2026 – Moonlight Visits
Night viewing offers a different experience from the regular daytime visit. Instead of seeing the Taj Mahal under sunlight, visitors get an opportunity to view the monument under moonlight during selected nights around the full moon.
Night viewing is not available every evening. It follows a limited monthly schedule and requires a separate ticket.
Night Viewing Dates and Availability
Night viewing is available for five nights around the full moon:
- Two nights before the full moon.
- The full moon night.
- Two nights after the full moon.
However, night viewing is not available on Fridays or during the month of Ramadan, according to the official visitor information.
Check the official night-viewing calendar before making travel arrangements because full moon dates change every month.
Taj Mahal Night Viewing Timings
The official Taj Mahal night-viewing page lists the following schedule:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Viewing hours | 8:00 PM to 11:59 PM |
| Number of batches | 8 |
| Maximum visitors per batch | 50 |
| Duration of each batch | 30 minutes |
| Reporting time | 30 minutes before the allotted slot |
| Reporting location | Shilpgram, near the Eastern Gate |
Visitors must arrive at the reporting location in advance for security checks. Your ticket will specify the allotted viewing slot.
Taj Mahal Night Viewing Ticket Prices
| Visitor Category | Night Viewing Ticket |
|---|---|
| Indian adults | ₹510 |
| Foreign adults | ₹750 |
| Children aged 3-15 years | ₹500 |
| Children below 3 years | Free |
Night-viewing tickets are separate from regular daytime entry tickets.
Night Viewing Rules and Restrictions
Night viewing has additional security requirements.
- Carry the identification document used for booking.
- Reach Shilpgram at least 30 minutes before your allotted time.
- Follow the instructions of security personnel.
- Do not carry prohibited items.
- Photography and camera rules are different from daytime visits.
Important: Night viewing is limited and subject to official scheduling. Do not assume that a full-moon date automatically guarantees an available slot.
How to Book Taj Mahal Tickets Online
Online booking is a convenient way to arrange your entry before reaching the monument. It helps you avoid purchasing tickets at the counter and lets you select the appropriate visitor category.
Official Online Ticket Booking Process
You can book regular Taj Mahal entry tickets through the official ASI booking portal.
Follow these steps:
- Visit the official portal: ASI PAYGOV
- Select the Taj Mahal from the available monuments.
- Choose your intended date of visit.
- Select the correct visitor category and ticket type.
- Enter the required visitor details.
- Complete the online payment.
- Download or save your e-ticket.
- Carry the ticket and the required identification document on your visit.
Check the ticket carefully before travelling, particularly the date, visitor category and selected entry options.
On-Site Taj Mahal Ticket Counters
Visitors can also purchase tickets at the designated counters near the Eastern and Western Gates.
| Ticket Counter | Location | General Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Eastern Gate | Near the Eastern Gate | Approximately one hour before sunrise to 45 minutes before sunset |
| Western Gate | Near Saheli Burj | Approximately one hour before sunrise to 45 minutes before sunset |
| Southern Gate | Southern side | No entry at present; exit only |
Counter timings can be affected by operational arrangements. Confirm the latest instructions before your visit.
Online Booking or Counter Booking: Which Is Better?
| Factor | Online Booking | Counter Booking |
|---|---|---|
| Advance planning | Yes | No |
| Waiting at ticket counter | Usually avoided | May involve a queue |
| Payment | Online | At the counter, according to available payment options |
| Best suited for | Visitors with confirmed travel dates | Visitors arranging tickets on arrival |
| Ticket confirmation | Digital ticket | Counter-issued ticket |
Recommendation: Book online if your travel date is confirmed, particularly during weekends, holidays and peak tourist seasons.
Taj Mahal Entry Gates and Visitor Access
The Taj Mahal has three historic gates: Eastern, Western and Southern. However, their current visitor access arrangements are not identical.
Eastern Gate
The Eastern Gate is commonly used by visitors staying in hotels around the Taj East Gate Road and Fatehabad Road.
Shilpgram, the designated reporting location for night viewing, is also near this side of the monument.
This gate is a useful option for visitors whose accommodation or transport arrangements are on the eastern side.
Western Gate
The Western Gate is another major entrance for general visitors. It is near Saheli Burj and is used by travellers arriving from other parts of Agra.
The official ticket information lists ticket availability at the Western Gate.
Southern Gate
The Southern Gate is part of the monument’s historic layout. However, the current official visitor information states that entry is not allowed through this gate and it is used for exit only.
Do not plan your entry through the Southern Gate without checking for a change in the official access policy.
Taj Mahal Entry Rules and Restrictions
The Taj Mahal is a protected heritage monument. Visitors must follow security procedures and conservation rules to protect the structure and maintain a comfortable experience for everyone.
Documents Required
Carry the following documents:
- Valid Taj Mahal entry ticket.
- Passport for international visitors.
- Appropriate government-issued identification for Indian visitors.
- Identification used for night-viewing ticket arrangements, where applicable.
The name and visitor category on the booking should match the documents presented during verification.
Items Allowed Inside
The official visitor guidelines permit a water bottle inside the monument. However, security checks apply to all visitors.
Keep your belongings limited to essential items to make entry checks easier.
Prohibited Items
The official guidelines list several restricted items, including:
- Weapons and ammunition.
- Tobacco and smoking products.
- Alcohol.
- Food and eatables.
- Tripods.
- Mobile chargers and certain electronic accessories.
- Knives and sharp objects.
- Drones.
This is not a substitute for the complete security list. Restrictions may vary depending on the type of visit, particularly night viewing.
Check the official Taj Mahal Do’s and Don’ts page before travelling.
Photography Rules
Photography is allowed in designated outdoor areas, but photography is prohibited inside the main mausoleum.
Tripods and drones are prohibited under the visitor guidelines. Follow instructions from security personnel and avoid disturbing other visitors.
Security Checks
All visitors must pass through security checks before entering the monument.
Large bags, unnecessary accessories and restricted electronic items can increase checking time or prevent entry. Carry only what you need for the visit.
Best Time to Visit the Taj Mahal
The best time to visit depends on your weather preference, sightseeing schedule and photography plans. Agra experiences hot summers, a monsoon season and cooler winters.
Best Season to Visit
| Season | Months | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Winter | October to March | Generally comfortable temperatures and popular sightseeing conditions |
| Summer | April to June | High temperatures; early morning visits are preferable |
| Monsoon | July to September | Rain, humidity and occasional cloudy skies |
October to March is generally considered the most comfortable period for exploring Agra. However, winter mornings can sometimes be foggy, which may affect long-distance visibility and photography.
Best Time of Day to Visit
Sunrise visit
Sunrise is one of the most popular times to see the Taj Mahal. The softer morning light creates beautiful views of the white marble, and temperatures are generally more comfortable than during the afternoon.
It is also a good choice for visitors who want to avoid some of the heavier daytime crowds.
Morning visit
A morning visit provides enough daylight to explore the main complex, gardens and architectural details without planning an entire day around the monument.
Afternoon visit
Afternoon visits can be convenient for travellers arriving in Agra later in the day. However, summer temperatures can make outdoor sightseeing uncomfortable.
Sunset visit
The changing light gives the monument a different appearance as the day progresses. Sunset visits are possible during normal opening hours, subject to the official closing schedule.
Night viewing
Moonlight viewing is a special option for visitors travelling around the full moon. It requires a separate ticket and advance planning.
How Much Time Do You Need to Visit the Taj Mahal?
The time required depends on whether you want a quick visit, a detailed architectural exploration or a photography-focused experience.
| Type of Visit | Suggested Time | What You Can Explore |
|---|---|---|
| Quick visit | 1-1.5 hours | Main view, gardens and key viewpoints |
| Regular sightseeing | 2-3 hours | Main complex, reflecting pools, architecture and mausoleum access if purchased |
| Detailed visit | 3-4 hours | Architecture, decorative details, gardens and photography |
These are planning estimates rather than official visiting limits. Your actual time will depend on queues, security checks and visitor numbers.
If you are travelling from Delhi for a same-day trip, allow sufficient time for road travel, sightseeing and the return journey.
Useful Tips for Taj Mahal Visitors
A little preparation can make your visit more comfortable and help you avoid common travel problems.
- Check the weekday: The Taj Mahal is closed to general visitors every Friday.
- Book tickets through the official portal: Avoid unauthorised ticket sellers.
- Arrive early: Early arrival can help you avoid some queues and summer heat.
- Carry valid identification: Keep your passport or government-issued ID available.
- Check the prohibited-items list: Avoid carrying restricted electronic accessories, food and other prohibited objects.
- Wear comfortable footwear: The complex involves considerable walking.
- Carry water: A water bottle is permitted under the official visitor guidelines.
- Follow photography rules: Do not photograph inside the main mausoleum.
- Check weather conditions: Fog, heat and rain can affect your sightseeing experience.
- Use authorised guides: If you want a guided experience, choose a guide with valid identification.
Important Travel Advice for International Visitors
International travellers should keep their passport and booking confirmation accessible. Select the correct foreign visitor category while purchasing tickets.
If you are visiting India for the first time, consider arranging transport and sightseeing in advance rather than relying on last-minute arrangements.
Places to Visit in Agra Near the Taj Mahal
Agra has several important historical and cultural attractions. If you have additional time, you can explore more than the Taj Mahal during your visit.
| Attraction | Why Visit? | Suggested Visit Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Agra Fort | Mughal fort complex with palaces, courtyards and historical structures | 1.5-2 hours |
| Mehtab Bagh | Garden across the Yamuna with views of the Taj Mahal | 45-60 minutes |
| Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb | Marble tomb known for its decorative inlay work | 45-60 minutes |
| Akbar’s Tomb, Sikandra | Important Mughal-era tomb and architectural complex | 1-1.5 hours |
| Fatehpur Sikri | Historic Mughal city and UNESCO World Heritage Site outside Agra | 2-3 hours or more |
For more sightseeing ideas, explore our guide to Places to Visit in Agra.
Plan Your Taj Mahal Tour with Crystal India Holidays
If you are travelling from Delhi, organising transport, sightseeing and timing can take additional effort. A planned private tour can make the journey more convenient, particularly for families, couples and international visitors.
Crystal India Holidays offers private Taj Mahal tours from Delhi with a dedicated vehicle and local guide arrangements.
Depending on your selected package, you can plan:
- Private pickup from Delhi, Noida or Gurugram.
- Travel to Agra in a private air-conditioned vehicle.
- Guided sightseeing at the Taj Mahal.
- A visit to Agra Fort or other attractions.
- A sunrise visit, subject to the selected itinerary.
- Flexible sightseeing arrangements based on your travel schedule.
Explore Our Taj Mahal Tour Options
Taj Mahal Tour from Delhi by Car
Explore the Taj Mahal with private transport from Delhi.
View Taj Mahal Tour from Delhi
Sunrise Taj Mahal Tour from Delhi
Visit the monument early in the morning to experience its changing colours in the soft sunrise light.
Tour inclusions, guide arrangements, monument tickets and other services depend on the selected package. Check the package details before confirming your booking.
Final Thoughts
Visiting the Taj Mahal is a memorable experience, but planning the details in advance makes the journey easier. Understanding the opening hours, entry fees, Friday closure, night-viewing schedule and security restrictions helps you avoid unnecessary confusion.
For a smoother visit in 2026:
- Check the official timings for your travel date.
- Confirm ticket prices before booking.
- Purchase tickets through the official portal.
- Avoid planning a general sightseeing visit on Friday.
- Arrive early, especially during summer.
- Review the visitor rules and prohibited-items list.
- Allow enough time for Agra sightseeing and transport.
Whether you are planning a sunrise visit, a regular sightseeing trip or a longer Agra tour, preparation will help you make better use of your time at this remarkable monument.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the Taj Mahal timings in 2026?
The Taj Mahal opens 30 minutes before sunrise and closes 30 minutes before sunset on normal visiting days. It is closed to general visitors every Friday.
2. What is the Taj Mahal entry fee for Indian citizens in 2026?
The listed entry fee for Indian citizens is ₹50 for the main complex. An additional ₹200 is charged for optional entry to the main mausoleum. Online discounts may apply.
3. What is the Taj Mahal ticket price for foreign tourists?
The official listed entry fee for other foreign tourists is ₹1,100, with an additional ₹200 for optional main mausoleum access. Confirm the payable amount on the official portal.
4. Is the Taj Mahal free for children?
Children below 15 years of age are eligible for free entry according to the official visitor information.
5. Is the Taj Mahal open on Friday?
No. The Taj Mahal is closed for general sightseeing every Friday. The mosque inside the complex is used for Friday prayers.
6. Can I visit the main mausoleum with a regular ticket?
No. The main mausoleum requires an additional ₹200 ticket. The regular entry ticket covers the main complex.
7. Can I book Taj Mahal tickets online?
Yes. Regular entry tickets can be booked through the official ASI portal.
8. What is the best time to visit the Taj Mahal?
October to March is generally a comfortable season for sightseeing. Sunrise is particularly popular because of the softer light and relatively cooler temperatures.
9. Is Taj Mahal night viewing available every day?
No. Night viewing is available on five nights around the full moon, excluding Fridays and the month of Ramadan, subject to official arrangements.
10. What are the Taj Mahal night viewing ticket prices?
The listed prices are ₹510 for Indian adults, ₹750 for foreign adults and ₹500 for children aged 3-15 years. Children below 3 years are free.
11. How long does a Taj Mahal visit take?
A quick visit may take around 1-1.5 hours. A more detailed sightseeing experience generally requires 2-3 hours or longer.
12. Which gate should I use to enter the Taj Mahal?
The Eastern and Western Gates are the main visitor entry points listed by the official website. The Southern Gate is currently listed as exit-only. Choose your gate based on your location and current access instructions.
13. Can I carry a camera inside the Taj Mahal?
Photography is permitted in designated outdoor areas, but photography is prohibited inside the main mausoleum. Tripods and drones are prohibited under the official visitor guidelines.
14. How far is the Taj Mahal from Delhi?
The Taj Mahal is approximately 230 km by road from central Delhi, depending on the starting point and route. A car journey generally takes around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
15. Can I visit the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort on the same day?
Yes. Many visitors explore both monuments on the same day. Allow sufficient time for travel, ticketing, security checks and sightseeing.