Taj Mahal in Agra exterior view under clear sky

Taj Mahal Closed on Friday: Why It Happens & Historical Reason (2026)

Which Day Taj Mahal Is Closed? Complete Visitor Guide (Updated for Global Travelers)

Planning a trip to the Taj Mahal is a dream for millions of travelers around the world. But one small mistake—choosing the wrong day—can completely ruin your experience. One of the most important yet misunderstood questions is: Taj Mahal Closed on Friday – Why & History?

This guide is written to help first-time visitors, international tourists, families, and solo travelers plan their visit correctly. It explains the exact closed day, the reason behind it, common myths, and how to plan your Agra trip without stress.

If you’re unsure how the Friday closure affects your itinerary, this detailed guide on the Taj Mahal closed day explains everything you need to know before you go.

For accurate, updated travel planning:

  • Check official guidelines
  • Follow verified travel sources
  • Avoid outdated forums

This guide is designed to help travelers plan confidently and correctly.

The Taj Mahal is closed every Friday.

This rule applies to:

  • Indian tourists
  • International tourists
  • Online ticket holders
  • Group tours
  • Private visits

The closure is mandatory and applies year-round, without exception.

The Taj Mahal is not just a historical monument—it also houses an active mosque.

Key reasons for Friday closure:

  • Friday is a sacred prayer day (Jumma) in Islam
  • The mosque inside the Taj Mahal complex is used for weekly congregational prayers
  • To maintain religious sanctity, safety, and crowd management, the monument is closed to tourists

Only local Muslim worshippers are allowed limited access during prayer hours.

  • The Taj Mahal was built in the 17th century by Emperor Shah Jahan
  • The mosque has been in continuous religious use since its construction
  • Friday prayers have been observed here for over 350 years

The closure rule is not modern—it is rooted in history, faith, and tradition, which is why it remains unchanged today.

Yes.
The rule applies equally to all nationalities.

Whether you are visiting from:

  • USA
  • UK
  • Europe
  • Australia
  • Middle East
  • Asia

👉 No tourist entry is allowed on Fridays, regardless of passport or visa type.

No.

A common misconception is that tourists can enter:

  • Early morning before prayers
  • Late afternoon after prayers

This is not allowed.

The Taj Mahal remains fully closed for the entire day on Friday:

  • No sunrise visits
  • No sunset entry
  • No night viewing

The Taj Mahal offers limited night viewing on select full moon nights—but never on Fridays.

Even if a full moon falls on a Friday:

  • Night tickets are not issued
  • Entry is not permitted

🟢 Usually open on public holidays, except:

  • Fridays
  • Occasional emergency or security closures (rare)

National holidays like:

  • Diwali
  • Holi
  • Christmas
  • Independence Day

👉 Do not affect regular opening days.

✅ Best Days

  • Tuesday to Thursday – Balanced crowds, good lighting
  • Monday – Slightly busier, still manageable

⚠ Busy Days

  • Saturday & Sunday – Heavy crowds, especially peak season

❌ Worst Day

  • Friday – Completely closed

If your itinerary places you in Agra on a Friday, don’t worry. You can still explore:

Alternative attractions:

  • Agra Fort (UNESCO site)
  • Mehtab Bagh (Taj Mahal view from across the river)
  • Itmad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj)
  • Local marble workshops
  • Mughlai food experiences

💡 Many travelers visit Agra Fort on Friday and the Taj Mahal on Saturday morning.

Common Mistakes Tourists Make

Avoid these planning errors:

  • Booking Taj Mahal tickets for Friday
  • Planning same-day Agra tours on Friday
  • Assuming foreign tourists are exempt
  • Trusting outdated blogs or social media posts

Always verify which day the Taj Mahal is closed before booking travel.

  • Taj Mahal is open 6 days a week
  • Closed every Friday
  • Closure applies throughout the year
  • Entry rules are enforced strictly
  • No exceptions for VIPs or private tours

Taj Mahal Tour Expert Advice (Taj Mahal Cabs)

If you are traveling internationally or planning a tight itinerary:

  • Double-check the closed day
  • Align hotel bookings accordingly
  • Plan alternative sightseeing for Friday
  • Visit Taj Mahal early morning on an open day

Understanding which day the Taj Mahal is closed will help you avoid disappointment and make your trip smooth and memorable.

👨‍💼for Booking & Inquiry Please Call / WhatsApp to +91 7500-840-840


Which day Taj Mahal is closed every week?

The Taj Mahal is closed every Friday.

Is Taj Mahal closed on Friday for Indians?

Yes, it is closed for Indian citizens and foreign tourists alike.

Can I see Taj Mahal from outside on Friday?

Yes. You can view it from Mehtab Bagh or nearby areas, but no entry is allowed.

Is Taj Mahal open on Friday evening?

No. It remains closed the entire day.

Is Taj Mahal open on Sunday?

Yes. Sunday is open but usually crowded.

Does Friday closure change during festivals?

No. Friday closure applies even during festivals.


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

✍️ Author

Written by Alamgir Khan, Agra-based Taj Mahal tour expert and founder of Taj Mahal Cabs, helping travelers from around the world experience India’s most iconic monument with comfort, care, and authenticity.

👨‍💼for Booking & Inquiry Please Call / WhatsApp to +91 7500-840-840