Visiting the Taj Mahal is not just a sightseeing activity—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime emotional experience. As travel experts at Taj Mahal Cabs, we’ve guided thousands of travelers from all over the world—USA, UK, Europe, Australia, the Middle East, and Asia—who all ask us one crucial question before planning their trip: “What are the Taj Mahal entry fees and timings?”
Understanding the Taj Mahal entry fees, opening hours, sunrise timings, and ticket rules is essential to avoid confusion, save time, and make the most of your visit. Many travelers arrive in Agra unprepared, only to face long queues, sold-out sunrise tickets, or incorrect information shared online.
We’ve personally seen how proper planning transforms a rushed visit into a magical memory—especially for first-time visitors, honeymoon couples, families, and senior travelers.
This updated, expert-backed guide is designed for worldwide travelers and explains everything clearly:
- Latest Taj Mahal entry fees
- Exact opening and closing timings
- Sunrise vs regular entry
- Booking methods
- Skip-the-line options
- Insider travel tips trusted by professionals
Whether you’re planning independently or with a private tour, this guide will help you enter the Taj Mahal confidently and stress-free.
Taj Mahal Opening & Closing Timings (Updated)
The Taj Mahal timings are strictly regulated by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Knowing the correct hours helps you plan transport, guides, and photography sessions effectively.
Regular Taj Mahal Timings
- Opening Time: 30 minutes before sunrise
- Closing Time: 30 minutes before sunset
- Open Days: Monday to Thursday, Saturday & Sunday
- Closed On: Every Friday (for prayers)
⛔ The Taj Mahal remains closed every Friday for general visitors.
Seasonal Timing Variation
Because sunrise and sunset change throughout the year, Taj Mahal entry timings vary slightly by season:
- Summer (April–September): Opens earlier
- Winter (October–March): Opens slightly later
Taj Mahal Sunrise & Sunset Timings (Photography Special)
For photographers and romantic travelers, sunrise is the most magical time at the Taj Mahal.
Taj Mahal Sunrise Timings
- Entry starts around 5:30 AM (summer) and 6:30 AM (winter)
- Only limited tickets are issued
- Calm atmosphere and soft lighting
Taj Mahal Sunset Viewing
- Allowed during regular hours
- Sunset colors reflect beautifully on marble
- Usually more crowded than sunrise
👉 Expert Tip from Taj Mahal Cabs:
If photography or peaceful exploration is your priority, sunrise is unbeatable.
Taj Mahal Entry Fees (Latest Ticket Prices)
The Taj Mahal entry fees differ based on nationality and access level. Below is the official ticket structure explained clearly for international readers.
Taj Mahal Entry Fee for Indian Citizens
- Base Entry Fee: ₹50 per person
- Mausoleum Entry (Optional): ₹200 extra
Taj Mahal Entry Fee for Foreign Tourists
- Base Entry Fee: ₹1,100 per person
- Mausoleum Entry (Optional): ₹200 extra
This includes:
- Main monument access
- Museum entry
- Shoe covers
- Drinking water
Taj Mahal Entry Fee for SAARC & BIMSTEC Nationals
- Ticket Price: ₹540 per person
- Mausoleum Fee: ₹200 extra
Taj Mahal Entry Fee for Children
- Children below 15 years: Free entry (Indian & foreign)
Additional Charges: Mausoleum (Main Tomb) Entry
To enter the main marble tomb of Mumtaz Mahal, an extra mausoleum fee is required.
- Mausoleum Ticket: ₹200 per person
- Mandatory if you want to enter the inner chamber
- Highly recommended for first-time visitors
Taj Mahal Sunrise Entry Ticket Price
Sunrise tickets are separate and limited.
Sunrise Ticket Prices
- Indian Citizens: ₹50 + ₹200 mausoleum fee
- Foreign Tourists: ₹1,100 + ₹200 mausoleum fee
Sunrise Entry Rules
- Entry allowed only from the East Gate
- Tickets sell out quickly
- No on-the-spot sunrise ticket availability
⭐ Travel Expert Advice:
Always book sunrise tickets at least 24–48 hours in advance, especially during peak season.
How to Book Taj Mahal Entry Tickets
Travelers can book Taj Mahal tickets in multiple ways, but not all options are convenient for international visitors.
1. Online Ticket Booking (Recommended)
- Government-authorized portals
- QR-based entry
- Avoids long queues
2. Offline Ticket Counters
- Available near entry gates
- Long waiting time during peak hours
- Not recommended for tight schedules
3. Private Tours & Skip-the-Line Access
This is the most stress-free option, especially for:
- Foreign travelers
- Families
- Senior citizens
- Honeymoon couples
For planning, routes, entry gates, and transport logistics, see our detailed Taj Mahal travel guide for complete visitor support.
Skip-the-Line & Private Tour Booking Options
Crowds are one of the biggest challenges at the Taj Mahal. During peak season, queues can exceed 60–90 minutes.
Benefits of Skip-the-Line Tours
- Priority entry
- Pre-booked tickets
- Licensed guide
- Private AC transport
- Fixed schedule
👉 For a smooth, hassle-free experience, Book Taj Mahal tour online with trusted experts who manage tickets, timing, and logistics professionally.
How Much Time Can You Spend Inside the Taj Mahal?
- Maximum stay: 3 hours
- Re-entry: Not allowed on the same ticket
- Recommended visit time: 2–2.5 hours
This allows enough time for:
- Photography
- Garden walk
- Mausoleum visit
- Museum exploration
Important Rules & Entry Restrictions
Items Not Allowed Inside
- Food & snacks
- Tripods
- Drones
- Cigarettes & lighters
- Power banks
Dress Code Tips
- Modest clothing recommended
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light colors for photography
Security Checks
- Airport-style screening
- Separate queues for men & women
Best Time to Visit Taj Mahal to Avoid Crowds
Best Time of Day
- Early morning (sunrise) – least crowded
- Late afternoon – moderate crowds
Best Days
- Tuesday to Thursday
- Avoid weekends and public holidays
Best Months
- October to March (pleasant weather)
- Avoid May–June afternoons due to heat
Why Trust Taj Mahal Cabs Travel Experts?
At Taj Mahal Cabs, we don’t just sell tours—we guide travelers responsibly. Our recommendations are based on:
- Daily on-ground experience
- Licensed guides
- Real visitor feedback
- Up-to-date ASI regulations
We’ve helped thousands of travelers plan their Taj Mahal visit without confusion, delays, or hidden surprises.
Final Thoughts: Plan Smart, Visit Stress-Free
Knowing the correct Taj Mahal entry fees and timings is the foundation of a smooth and memorable visit. With accurate information, advance planning, and expert guidance, your Taj Mahal experience becomes effortless and unforgettable.
If you want to avoid queues, confusion, and last-minute stress, trust experienced professionals who handle everything—from tickets to transport.
✨ The Taj Mahal is timeless. Your visit should be too.
Frequently Asked Questions – Taj Mahal Entry Fees & Timings
Is the Taj Mahal open every day?
No. The Taj Mahal is closed every Friday.
Are Taj Mahal entry fees different for foreigners?
Yes. Foreign tourists pay a higher entry fee than Indian citizens.
Can I buy Taj Mahal tickets at the gate?
Yes, but queues can be long. Online booking is recommended.
Are sunrise tickets different from regular tickets?
Yes. Sunrise tickets are limited and must be booked separately.
Is mausoleum entry mandatory?
No, but it is highly recommended for a complete experience.
Is the Taj Mahal open on public holidays?
Yes, except Fridays.
How early should I arrive before my entry time?
At least 30 minutes early for security and queue clearance.
👉🏾 Noted:- For e-visa applicants: You must apply for e-visa, 4 days prior of your date of arrival in India.
For more information visit: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/index.html
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