Latest Taj Mahal Timings & Ticket Prices 2026 – Visitor Guide

The Taj Mahal isn’t just a monument – it’s a living symbol of love and one of the most visited heritage sites in the world. Every year millions of travellers from India and abroad plan their trips around the Taj Mahal. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another look, knowing the latest timings and ticket prices for 2026 is essential for smooth travel planning.

At Crystal India Holidays, we understand how important accurate information is for a perfect travel experience. In this guide, we’ve gathered official information, expert tips, and practical advice to help you plan your Taj Mahal visit with confidence.

Taj Mahal Visiting Timings (2026)

The Taj Mahal’s opening hours are based on sunrise and sunset – which change slightly throughout the year.

Daily Timings

The Taj Mahal opens 30 minutes before sunrise.
It closes 30 minutes before sunset on normal days.
This timing ensures you have the best lighting and comfortable visit time.

For most of the year, this usually works out to:

Approximate Timing:
6:00 AM – 6:30 PM (changes slightly with season)

When Is It Closed?

The Taj Mahal is closed for general visitors every Friday.
On Fridays, only people attending the prayer at the mosque inside the complex may enter.

Updated Taj Mahal Ticket Prices (2026)

Entry fees are different depending on your nationality. These rates are reviewed periodically and reflect the latest 2026 information:

The main mausoleum ticket is optional but highly recommended, as this lets you enter the iconic central tomb of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal – one of the major highlights of your visit.

Taj Mahal Night Viewing (Moonlight Visits)

One of the most magical experiences at the Taj Mahal is night viewing – when the monument glows under moonlight.

Night Visit Details

Available 5 nights each lunar month:
2 nights before the full moon, the full moon night, and 2 nights after.
Not available on Fridays or during Ramadan/Eid.

Typical Night Viewing Time

8:30 PM – 12:30 AM (slots are usually in batches of 30 minutes each)

Night View Ticket Fees (Approx.)

Night timings and ticket prices are subject to official updates – so always check closer to your visit date.

How to Book Taj Mahal Tickets

Online Booking (Best Option)

Booking your Taj Mahal Tour tickets online is smart because it:

Saves time at the entry ticket counters
Lets you choose your preferred time slot
Reduces waiting in queues

Official online booking is available through the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) portal – the government authority that manages Taj Mahal tickets.

On-Site Ticket Counters

Tickets can also be purchased at ticket counters near:

East Gate

West Gate

These typically open about 1 hour before sunrise and close around 45 minutes before sunset.

Tip: Counters near the East Gate often move faster during peak times.

Best Time to Visit Taj Mahal in 2026

By Season

October to March: Cool weather, clear skies – ideal for sightseeing and photography.

April to June: Hot but manageable with early daytime visits.

Monsoon (July to September): Fewer crowds and lush garden views – but occasional rain.

By Time of Day

Sunrise Tour – best light and fewer crowds

Morning till early afternoon – ideal for photography and exploring gardens

Night viewing – unique moonlit experience

Tip: Visiting right at the opening time helps you avoid long queues and midday heat.

Useful Tips for 2026 Visitors

Always carry a government-issued ID (like passport or Aadhar) as it may be checked with your ticket.

Book tickets online to skip lines at the counter.

Avoid fake guides or ticket resellers outside the gates – they often mislead or overcharge.

Go early in the day if you want to see the Taj Mahal with soft golden morning light.

Fridays are always closed for general visitors – plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

The Taj Mahal truly deserves careful planning – especially with updated 2026 timings and ticket prices. Whether you plan to see this marvel at sunrise, explore in daylight, or enjoy a moonlit visit, the key to a memorable experience lies in preparation.

Book tickets online.
Arrive early.
Check seasonal timing changes.
Be aware of Fridays and night-viewing rules.

With the right planning, your trip to the Taj Mahal in 2026 will be smooth, enjoyable, and unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. Is the Taj Mahal open every day?
The Taj Mahal is open daily from sunrise to sunset, except on Fridays.

Q. Do children have to pay for entry?
Children under 15 years enter free of charge.

Q. Can I enter the main mausoleum with the normal ticket?
No – entering the central mausoleum requires a separate ₹200 ticket.

Q. How many visitors are allowed during night viewing?
Night viewing usually has a limited number of slots per night – so it’s best to book early.

.