About Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is an ivory-white marble mausoleum located on the right bank of the Yamuna River in Agra, India. The Mughal emperor Shah Jahan built it in 1632 in remembrance of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It is now one of the most famous emblems of love and great architecture in the world. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Taj Mahal draws millions of visitors every year, admired for its intricate marble carvings, symmetrical design, and exquisite calligraphy that blend Mughal architecture influences from Persian, Turkish, and Indian traditions.
The Taj Mahal is globally recognized for its breathtaking beauty, symmetrical design, and rich historical significance. It is often referred to as "The Jewel of Muslim Art in India" and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world.
History of Taj Mahal
A Monument of Eternal Love
Commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1632, the Taj Mahal took more than 20 years to complete, built with pristine white marble sourced from Makrana, Rajasthan. Over 20,000 artisans and craftsmen contributed under the guidance of the chief architect, Ustad Ahmad Lahauri. The monument beautifully reflects a harmonious blend of Persian, Islamic, and Indian architectural styles, making it the finest example of Mughal architecture to this day.
Mesmerizing Views of Taj Mahal
Why Visit the Taj Mahal?
Routes for Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, with excellent connectivity by air, train, and road.
By Air: Agra Airport is 13 km from the Taj Mahal, with direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and other major cities.
By Train: Agra Cantt Railway Station connects to Delhi, Jaipur, and Mumbai, making it convenient for rail travelers.
By Road: The Yamuna Expressway connects Delhi and Agra, a comfortable 3-4 hour drive.
| Entry Type | Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| Foreign nationals | 1100 |
| Indian visitors | 50 |
| Mausoleum Entry (Additional) | 200 |
| Night Viewing (8:30 PM to 12:30 AM on full moon nights and ±2 days) | Varies |
Security restrictions prohibit large luggage, drones, and outside food to preserve the site’s sanctity and safety.
| Section | Best For | Public Transport (from Delhi/Agra) | Duration | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| By Air | Quick access | Direct flights to Agra Airport (13 km away) | 1 hour flight | ₹2000+ |
| By Train | Budget-friendly travel | Trains to Agra Cantt Station from Delhi | 2-3 hours | ₹200-1000 |
| By Road | Flexible timing | Yamuna Expressway from Delhi (3-4 hours) | 3-4 hours | ₹500-1500 |
Facts about Taj Mahal
Interesting Facts About Taj Mahal You Should Know Before Visiting
- Built as a Labor of Love: The Taj Mahal was constructed over 21 years, starting in 1632, by Emperor Shah Jahan to honor his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal — truly a timeless symbol of love.
- A Masterpiece of World Heritage: It earned the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage status in 1983, celebrated globally for its breathtaking beauty and architectural brilliance.
- Crafted from Pure White Marble: The entire monument shines with ivory-white marble sourced from the distant Makrana quarries in Rajasthan — giving it that iconic glow.
- A Blend of Cultures: The design beautifully marries Persian, Islamic, and Indian architectural styles, making it a perfect example of Mughal artistry.
- Thousands of Skilled Hands: More than 20,000 artisans, sculptors, painters, and craftsmen from across Asia came together to bring this vision to life.
- Watchful Minarets: The four elegant minarets are purposefully tilted slightly outward — a clever design to protect the main tomb if the earth shakes.
- Nature’s Palette in Stone: Look closely and you’ll see delicate floral patterns made from semi-precious stones like jade, lapis lazuli, and turquoise inlaid into the marble.
- A Majestic Dome: Its grand onion-shaped dome rises 35 meters high, dominating the skyline and visible from miles around.
- Gardens of Paradise: The Taj Mahal is surrounded by lush Mughal gardens laid out in the Persian Charbagh style, complete with serene reflecting pools that mirror the monument’s beauty.
- Sacred Calligraphy: Verses from the Quran are artistically inscribed on the walls, adding a spiritual dimension to the architectural wonder.
- Ever-Changing Hues: Depending on the time of day and the moon’s glow, the Taj Mahal magically shifts colors — from soft pinks at dawn to golden hues at sunset.
- A Magical Night View: If you’re lucky, you can experience the Taj Mahal under moonlight during special full moon nights — an unforgettable sight.
- Welcoming Millions: Each year, around 7 to 8 million visitors from around the world come to marvel at this incredible monument.
- Entry Details: Indian visitors pay a modest ₹50, while foreign tourists pay ₹1100. To step inside the mausoleum itself, an additional ₹200 ticket is required.
Plan Your Visit: Taj Mahal
Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting the Taj Mahal: Stay Options, Activities, and Packing Tips
Best Time to Visit
For pleasant weather and fewer crowds, visit between October and March. The Taj Mahal opens from sunrise to sunset, except Fridays. The best photography times are early mornings and evenings when the monument glows in soft light.
Accommodation
Agra offers a variety of stays, from budget-friendly to luxurious:
The Oberoi Amarvilas: Famous for rooms with panoramic Taj Mahal views.
ITC Mughal: Blends luxury with Mughal-style décor for an authentic experience.
Things to Do
Take a guided historical tour to learn about the monument’s rich past.
Visit nearby attractions like Agra Fort and Mehtab Bagh for stunning views.
Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the Yamuna River offering unique Taj Mahal perspectives.
Explore local markets for traditional souvenirs like marble crafts and textiles.
Things to Pack
Comfortable walking shoes for the large complex.
Sunscreen and hat for sun protection.
Camera or smartphone for capturing unforgettable moments.
Water bottle to stay hydrated during your tour.
Respectful attire, especially if planning to visit the mosque inside the Taj Mahal complex.
Additional Tips
for an Unforgettable Taj Mahal Experience
Get there early to avoid crowds and enjoy the peace and quiet.
Hire a certified guide for a deeper understanding of the history and architecture.
Avoid visiting on Fridays as the Taj Mahal is closed to tourists that day.
Respect local customs and avoid touching the marble surfaces to help preserve this world treasure.