The Taj Mahal, a symbol of eternal love and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, draws millions of visitors every year. If you’re planning a trip to Agra, knowing the Agra Taj Mahal timings is essential to make the most of your visit. In this complete guide, we will explore the opening hours, best visiting times, entry fees, historical background, nearby attractions, and expert travel tips — all in one place.
As a trusted local travel agency based in Mathura, Agratourism aims to give travelers reliable, up-to-date, and experience-backed information to help them plan the perfect Agra tour.
Table of Contents
ToggleWhy Knowing Agra Taj Mahal Timings Matters?
When planning your trip, especially with tight schedules or in peak season, understanding the Taj Mahal visiting hours can help you avoid long queues, witness beautiful sunrise or sunset views, and manage your itinerary better.
Agra Taj Mahal Timings 2025
Here are the updated Taj Mahal timings for 2025:
-
Opening Days: Open every day except Friday
-
Visiting Hours: 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes before sunset
-
Night Viewing: Available on full moon nights and two nights before and after (excluding Fridays and Ramadan)
Season | Approx. Opening Time | Approx. Closing Time |
---|---|---|
Summer (Apr–Sep) | 5:30 AM | 7:00 PM |
Winter (Oct–Mar) | 6:00 AM | 6:30 PM |
Night Viewing Timings:
-
8:30 PM to 12:30 AM (in 8 batches of 50 people each, 30 minutes per batch)
Entry Fee for Taj Mahal in 2025
To ensure a seamless experience, here’s a breakdown of the Taj Mahal ticket prices:
-
Indians: ₹50
-
Foreigners: ₹1100
-
SAARC/BIMSTEC Nations: ₹540
-
Children below 15 years: Free
-
Entry to Main Mausoleum: Additional ₹200 (for all categories)
Note: Tickets can be booked online via ASI website or at the entrance gate (online booking is recommended to avoid rush).

History of the Taj Mahal: A Timeless Love Story
The Taj Mahal was commissioned in 1632 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died during childbirth. This white marble masterpiece took over 20 years and 20,000 artisans to complete, and today, it stands as a global symbol of love and loss.
-
Architect: Ustad Ahmad Lahauri
-
Construction Completed: 1653
-
Style: Mughal architecture combining Persian, Islamic, and Indian styles
-
Material: White marble sourced from Makrana, Rajasthan
The Taj Mahal complex also includes a mosque, a guest house, gardens, and a reflecting pool, all aligned with aesthetic precision.
Best Time to Visit the Taj Mahal
To enjoy the most stunning views and comfortable weather, here’s our recommendation:
Best Months:
-
October to March: Pleasant climate, ideal for exploring
-
April to June: Can be hot, early mornings are preferable
-
July to September: Monsoon lovers may enjoy the lush surroundings
Best Time of Day:
-
Early Morning (Sunrise): Less crowd, magical lighting
-
Evening (Sunset): Golden hues on the white marble
-
Full Moon Night: Unforgettable moonlit view (book in advance)
Nearby Attractions to Explore After Visiting the Taj Mahal
Make the most of your Agra tour by adding these nearby gems to your itinerary:
Agra Fort (2.5 km)
-
UNESCO World Heritage Site
-
Built by Emperor Akbar in 1565
-
Entry Fee: ₹50 (Indians), ₹650 (Foreigners)
Mehtab Bagh (3.5 km)
-
Perfect spot for viewing the Taj Mahal from across Yamuna River
-
Best during sunset
Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah (6 km)
-
Often called “Baby Taj”
-
Built by Nur Jahan, mother of Shah Jahan
Sadar Bazaar (4 km)
-
Local market for souvenirs, handicrafts, marble art, and street food
Important Travel Tips for Visiting the Taj Mahal
To ensure a stress-free and memorable experience, keep these travel tips in mind:
-
Arrive Early: Especially during weekends and holidays
-
Avoid Fridays: Taj Mahal is closed every Friday
-
Carry Valid ID: Mandatory for ticket purchase and security check
-
Photography Rules: Allowed in most areas, not inside the mausoleum
-
Security Check: Avoid carrying large bags, food, or electronic items
-
Dress Modestly: Respectful attire is appreciated
How to Reach the Taj Mahal
Whether you’re coming from Delhi, Mathura, or other parts of India, reaching the Taj Mahal is convenient.
By Road:
-
From Delhi: 230 km (Approx. 3.5 hours via Yamuna Expressway)
-
From Mathura: 55 km (Approx. 1.5 hours)
By Train:
-
Nearest Station: Agra Cantt (AGC)
-
Well-connected to Delhi, Jaipur, Varanasi, and Mathura
Air:
-
Nearest Airport: Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport, Agra
-
Closest international airport: Delhi IGI Airport
Taj Mahal Night View Experience: A Must-Try!
Witnessing the Taj Mahal under the moonlight is a magical, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Available only 5 nights a month, this special access is limited and must be booked in advance.
-
Bookings open 1 day before viewing
-
Tickets available only at ASI Agra Office
Tip: Carry a government ID for booking and entry.
Facilities Available for Visitors
To make your visit comfortable, the following facilities are available at the Taj Mahal:
-
Battery-operated Golf Carts: For eco-friendly commute
-
Cloak Rooms: Available near the entrance
-
Drinking Water & Toilets: Well-maintained, free of cost
-
Tour Guides: Hire licensed guides or audio guides for rich historical insights
-
Wheelchair Access: Available for differently-abled and elderly
Why Trust Agratourism for Your Agra Visit?
At Agratourism, we bring decades of experience in planning customized Agra and Mathura travel packages. Being based locally, we understand the ground realities, seasonal crowd behavior, and best practices to help our travelers make the most of their trip.
-
Verified local guides
-
Comfortable cabs from Mathura to Agra
-
Priority group entry support
-
Personalized tour packages
Final Thoughts
The Taj Mahal is more than a monument—it’s an emotion, a timeless tribute to love, art, and architecture. By understanding the Agra Taj Mahal timings, entry details, history, and nearby places, you can plan your journey effectively and enjoy every moment of it.
Let Agratourism be your guide in exploring the grandeur of the Taj Mahal and the timeless charm of Agra.
FAQs for The Agra Taj Mahal Timings 2025
Q1. What are the Taj Mahal opening and closing timings?
The monument is open from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes before sunset, every day except Friday.
Q2. Is Taj Mahal open on Fridays?
No, the Taj Mahal remains closed on Fridays for general visitors.
Q3. What are the night viewing timings of the Taj Mahal?
Night viewing is available from 8:30 PM to 12:30 AM on full moon nights and two nights before and after.
Q4. Do I need to book my ticket in advance?
It is highly recommended to book online in advance, especially during weekends and holidays.
Q5. Is there an extra charge to enter the main mausoleum?
Yes, there is an additional ₹200 fee for entering the main mausoleum.
Q6. Are mobile phones and cameras allowed?
Yes, but professional photography gear and drones are not allowed. Photography is also prohibited inside the main mausoleum.
Q7. Can children enter for free?
Yes, children below 15 years can enter free of cost.
Q8. What is the best time to visit the Taj Mahal?
Visit during October to March for pleasant weather, and early morning for fewer crowds.
Q9. Are tour guides available?
Yes, licensed guides are available near the entrance. You can also hire one through Agratourism.
Q10. How far is the Taj Mahal from Mathura?
The Taj Mahal is around 55 km from Mathura, and it takes about 1.5 hours by road.