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Visiting the Taj Mahal is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for most travelers, and understanding the ticket price structure is essential for planning a smooth and stress-free visit. Whether you are an Indian citizen, a foreign tourist, or a traveler from SAARC or BIMSTEC countries, the Taj Mahal follows a differential pricing system that often confuses first-time visitors.
This complete guide explains Taj Mahal ticket prices for Indians and foreigners, what is included in the entry fee, additional charges like the mausoleum ticket, sunrise and night visit pricing, and step-by-step booking options. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how much to pay, when to buy tickets, and how to avoid common booking mistakes.
Taj Mahal ticket price for Indians and foreigners explained. See updated entry fees, what’s included, and how to book tickets easily.
Taj Mahal Ticket Price Overview
The Taj Mahal ticket price varies based on nationality, age, and visit timing. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) regulates entry fees and periodically updates prices.
Quick Ticket Price Summary
- Indian citizens: Lower subsidized entry fee
- Foreign tourists: Higher entry fee with added amenities
- SAARC & BIMSTEC nationals: Mid-range pricing
- Children below 15 years: Free entry
- Mausoleum entry: Separate optional fee
- Sunrise & night visits: Special ticket categories
⚠️ Important: The Taj Mahal remains closed every Friday for general visitors.
SAARC & BIMSTEC Country Ticket Price
Visitors from SAARC and BIMSTEC countries enjoy special discounted pricing, which is lower than general foreign rates.
Eligible Countries Include
- SAARC: Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Maldives, Pakistan
- BIMSTEC: Thailand, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka
Valid passport and nationality proof are mandatory.
Taj Mahal Sunrise & Special Visit Ticket Price
Some of the most searched ticket-related queries are about sunrise visits and night viewing.
Sunrise Visit Ticket Price
- Allows entry at sunrise hours
- Limited daily slots
- Best for photography and crowd-free experience
- Requires advance booking
Sunrise tickets are highly recommended for travelers visiting Agra on a same-day tour.
Full Moon & Night View Tickets
Night viewing of the Taj Mahal is permitted on:
- Full moon night
- Two nights before and after the full moon
Key points:
- Limited tickets per night
- Short viewing duration
- Tickets sold offline only from designated counters
- Higher demand during peak tourist seasons
Mausoleum Entry Fee Explained
Many visitors assume the main ticket includes mausoleum entry, but that’s not always true.
What Is the Mausoleum Ticket?
- Separate add-on ticket
- Grants access inside the marble tomb
- Mandatory for visitors who want to view Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal’s cenotaphs
Who Should Buy It?
- First-time visitors
- History and architecture enthusiasts
- Those visiting at sunrise
If you are short on time or crowd-averse, this ticket can be optional.
What Is Included in the Taj Mahal Ticket Price?
Understanding what you get for the ticket price helps manage expectations.
Included for All Visitors
- Entry to the Taj Mahal complex
- Access to landscaped gardens
- Security checks and regulated entry
Additional Inclusions for Foreign Tourists
- Shoe covers
- Drinking water bottle
- Site map
Not Included
- Tour guide services
- Photography equipment permissions
- Food and refreshments
- Transport to the Taj Mahal
How to Book Taj Mahal Tickets (Online & Offline)
Tickets can be booked online or offline, but online booking is strongly recommended.
Online Booking Process
Online ticket booking is the safest and fastest option.
Steps:
- Visit the official ASI ticketing platform
- Select monument and visit date
- Choose nationality category
- Add mausoleum or sunrise ticket (if required)
- Complete payment
- Download or save e-ticket
Advantages:
- Skip ticket counter queues
- Guaranteed entry
- Easy refunds (subject to policy)
Offline Ticket Counters
Offline tickets are available at:
- East Gate
- West Gate
- ASI-authorized counters in Agra
Disadvantages:
- Long queues during peak season
- Limited sunrise availability
- Higher risk of misinformation
Best Time to Buy Taj Mahal Tickets
Timing plays a major role in your overall experience.
Best Time of Day
- Early morning (sunrise to 9 AM): Least crowded
- Late afternoon: Better light but more visitors
Best Days
- Tuesday to Thursday: Moderate crowds
- Weekends & holidays: Heavy rush
Best Season
- October to March: Pleasant weather, higher crowd
- April to June: Hot but fewer tourists
- July to September: Monsoon, unpredictable conditions
Common Taj Mahal Ticket Booking Mistakes to Avoid
Many visitors make avoidable errors that affect their experience.
Top Mistakes
- Booking the wrong date
- Forgetting to add mausoleum entry
- Carrying mismatched ID
- Falling for fake agents
- Buying tickets too late during peak season
Pro Tip: Always cross-check details before payment.
Are Taj Mahal Tickets Included in Tour Packages?
Yes, many professionally organized tours include entry tickets.
Types of Tours with Tickets Included
- Same Day Taj Mahal Tour by Car
- Taj Mahal Sunrise Tour
- Taj Mahal Tour by Gatimaan Express
- Private Agra Sightseeing Tours
Benefits of Tour-Included Tickets
- Skip ticket queues
- Guided experience
- Fixed schedules
- Hassle-free planning
For first-time visitors, tours often offer better value and convenience.
Taj Mahal Ticket Rules You Must Know
Failing to follow entry rules can lead to denied access.
Important Rules
- No re-entry with same ticket
- ID proof required
- Limited time inside the complex
- No prohibited items allowed
Prohibited Items
- Food items
- Tobacco products
- Lighters
- Drones
- Tripods (without permission)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Taj Mahal entry free on Fridays?
The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays for general tourists. Only Muslims are allowed for prayers.
Are children allowed free entry?
Yes, children below 15 years can enter free of cost.
Can I cancel or change my Taj Mahal ticket?
Online tickets are refundable under ASI cancellation rules, minus service charges.
Is ID mandatory for entry?
Yes, valid photo ID matching the ticket category is mandatory.
Can foreigners buy tickets offline?
Yes, but online booking is safer and more convenient.
Is a guide included in the ticket price?
No, guide services are charged separately or included in tour packages.
Conclusion: Plan Smart, Visit Stress-Free
Understanding the Taj Mahal ticket price for Indians and foreigners helps you plan your visit efficiently and avoid unnecessary stress. From standard entry fees and mausoleum charges to sunrise and night visit tickets, knowing your options ensures a smoother experience.
For travelers seeking comfort, guided insights, and time efficiency, choosing a tour package with tickets included can be the most convenient option. Whether you’re visiting independently or as part of a tour, advance planning is the key to enjoying the Taj Mahal at its best.
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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👨💼for Booking & Inquiry Please Call / WhatsApp to +91 7500-840-840
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✍️ Author
Written by Alamgir Khan, Agra-based 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.
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