Taj Mahal Agra – Your Full Tour Guide

Yash Shrivastav April 6, 2025

Enquire Now

Welcome to the world of eternal love, white marble beauty, and Mughal magnificence. If you’re planning a visit to Taj Mahal Agra, this full tour guide by Delhi Agra Tour Packages will help you explore every detail – from entry gates to timings, history, and special travel tips.

Let’s begin a heartfelt journey into the soul of India’s most iconic monument – the Taj Mahal.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Taj Mahal Agra – The Symbol of Eternal Love

Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture and love.
Location: On the banks of the Yamuna River in Agra, Uttar Pradesh.
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Declared in 1983 and recognized globally as a Wonder of the World.
Construction Timeline: Started in 1632 and completed in 1648 (main mausoleum), with surrounding structures added by 1653.
Materials Used: White marble from Makrana, Rajasthan with inlay work of precious stones.

The Taj Mahal is not just a monument—it’s a timeless emotion that resonates with visitors from every corner of the world.

History and Architectural Marvel of Taj Mahal Agra

Love in Stone: Commissioned by Shah Jahan after the death of Mumtaz Mahal in 1631 during childbirth.
Architectural Style: Indo-Islamic architecture combining Persian, Turkish, and Indian influences.
Key Structures:
- Main mausoleum with the central dome.
- Four minarets standing symmetrically.
- Beautiful charbagh gardens symbolizing paradise.
- A reflecting pool enhancing the charm.
Calligraphy and Inlay Work: Verses from the Quran inscribed and intricate pietra dura (stone inlay) designs.
Tomb Chambers: Inside, you’ll find the false tombs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz; the real tombs lie in the crypt below.

Exploring the architecture during your Taj Mahal visit will leave you speechless with its detailing and harmony.

Best Gate to Enter Taj Mahal Agra – A Detailed Comparison

The Taj Mahal has three main entry gates. Here’s how they differ:

East Gate

Less crowded than the West Gate.
Closer to many popular hotels.
Ticket counter nearby.
Good for sunrise entry.

West Gate

Most frequently used.
Ideal for Indian tourists entering from Agra city.
Slightly more crowded, especially on weekends.

South Gate

Closer to the local market.
Has limited access now (no entry, only exit for tourists).

Best Gate Recommendation:

East Gate is the best for international tourists and early risers.
For locals, the West Gate is convenient.
Avoid South Gate for entry.

At Delhi Agra Tour Packages, we ensure our guests enter from the East Gate for a hassle-free experience at Taj Mahal.

Timings, Ticket Price & Online Booking Details

Make your Taj Mahal visit smooth by knowing the essentials:

Opening Hours:
- Opens at sunrise (~6:00 AM), closes at sunset (~6:30 PM)
- Closed on Fridays for general public (used for prayers)
Entry Fee (as per 2025 updates):
- Indian Citizens: ₹50
- Foreigners: ₹1,100
- SAARC/BIMSTEC nationals: ₹540
- Children below 15: Free
- Extra ₹200 for entry to the main mausoleum
Online Ticket Booking:
Book through official website: asi.payumoney.com or tourism sites to skip queues.

Pro Tip: Sunrise visits are magical and less crowded. At Delhi Agra Tour Packages, we always recommend early morning tours.

What to See Inside the Taj Mahal Agra Complex

Once you enter, there’s so much to absorb:

The Main Tomb: Central dome with perfect symmetry and Mughal aesthetics.
The Minarets: Four towers tilted slightly outward for earthquake protection.
Garden (Charbagh): Representing heaven, divided into four quadrants.
The Mosque: Located on the western side; still used for prayers.
Jawab (Guest House): A mirror structure on the eastern side for architectural balance.
Royal Gate (Darwaza-i-Rauza): The grand entrance to the mausoleum.

All these structures come together to make the Taj Mahal a harmonious and divine place of love and art.

Sunrise vs. Sunset – When is the Best Time to Visit Taj Mahal Agra?

The beauty of the Taj Mahal changes with sunlight. Here’s when to go:

Sunrise Visit

Fewer crowds.
Cooler temperatures.
The white marble glows with pink and orange hues.
Peaceful for photography and reflection.

Sunset Visit

Beautiful golden light on the marble.
Slightly more crowded.
Ideal for romantic and dramatic photographs.

Pro Tip: For first-timers, sunrise tours are best. At Delhi Agra Tour Packages, we arrange early pick-ups so you don’t miss this breathtaking moment.

Photography Tips & Best Spots Around Taj Mahal Agra

Capture the perfect shot during your Taj Mahal tour:

Mehtab Bagh: Across the Yamuna River, perfect for full-view sunset photos.
Main Entrance Gate: Framing the Taj perfectly through the arch.
The Central Fountain: Symmetrical reflection shots.
Side Gardens: Less crowded, candid photography spots.
From the Boat Ride: Capture the Taj with river reflections.

Tips:

Tripods are not allowed inside.
Early morning = softer light.
Don’t miss candid shots with birds flying near the dome.

Our guided tours include the best photography advice and angles to remember your Taj Mahal Agra journey forever.

What to Wear and Carry During Taj Mahal Agra Tour

Stay travel-smart with these clothing and packing tips:

What to Wear:

Light, breathable clothes for summer.
Covered shoulders and legs for temple visits.
Comfortable walking shoes.

What to Carry:

Water bottle (plastic only).
Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Mobile or camera (no drones or tripods).
Photocopy of ID proof.

NOT to Carry:

Food items
Tobacco or lighters
Drones, tripods, or sharp objects

At Delhi Agra Tour Packages, we provide a pre-tour checklist so your Taj Mahal Agra visit is safe, respectful, and relaxed.

Combine Taj Mahal Agra Tour with Other Agra Attractions

Make the most of your day in Agra by adding these sites:

Agra Fort (2.5 km away): A UNESCO World Heritage fort where Shah Jahan was imprisoned.
Itmad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj): The inspiration behind the Taj Mahal’s design.
Mehtab Bagh: Garden on the opposite bank for evening views.
Akbar’s Tomb (Sikandra): 13 km from the Taj, built with red sandstone and marble.

Our Delhi Agra Tour Packages include all these attractions to give you a complete Agra experience beyond the Taj Mahal Agra.

FAQs – Taj Mahal Agra Tour

Q1. Is the Taj Mahal Agra open on Fridays?
A: No, it remains closed for tourists every Friday. Only Muslims can offer prayers in the mosque.

Q2. How much time is enough to explore the Taj Mahal Agra?
A: 2 to 3 hours is ideal for a complete tour.

Q3. Is photography allowed inside the Taj Mahal?
A: Yes, photography is allowed outside and in most areas, but not inside the main mausoleum.

Q4. Can I visit the Taj Mahal Agra at night?
A: Yes, only on full moon nights and two nights before and after (except Fridays and Ramadan). Special tickets are needed.

Q5. Which is the nearest railway station to the Taj Mahal Agra?
A: Agra Cantt is the main and nearest station, just 6 km away.

Q6. Are guides available at the monument?
A: Yes, government-approved guides are available. We provide certified guides with our packages.

Q7. Is there wheelchair access in Taj Mahal Agra?
A: Yes, the site is accessible and wheelchairs are available at the gate.

Q8. Can I buy tickets at the gate or should I pre-book?
A: You can do both, but pre-booking online is faster and more convenient.

Q9. Is food available inside the Taj Mahal premises?
A: No, food is not allowed inside. Carry water only.

Q10. What is the best day to visit Taj Mahal Agra?
A: Weekdays are less crowded. Sunrise visits are especially peaceful and picturesque.

Final Thoughts: Let us Make Your Taj Mahal Agra Dream Come True

The Taj Mahal Agra is not just a wonder of the world—it’s a feeling of timeless love, beauty, and artistry. At Delhi Agra Tour Packages, we understand the emotion behind every journey. That’s why we don’t just offer tours—we craft unforgettable experiences with comfort, heritage, and personal touch.