Seeing the Taj Mahal is on almost every India itinerary — and a little planning makes the difference between a rushed, crowded visit and a magical one. Here is what we tell every EasyRoamers guest before their Agra day.
When is the Taj Mahal open?
The Taj Mahal opens around 30 minutes before sunrise and closes around 30 minutes before sunset, every day except Friday (Friday is reserved for prayers at the mosque). Night viewing is allowed on a few nights around the full moon with separate, limited tickets.
Sunrise is the best time
- The marble glows soft pink and gold in the first light.
- Queues and crowds are at their smallest.
- It is cooler — a big advantage from April to June.
Sunset is the second-best option, especially from Mehtab Bagh on the opposite bank of the Yamuna, where you get a beautiful, crowd-free view of the Taj.
East gate or West gate?
Most hotels are close to the East Gate, which usually has shorter queues in the morning. The West Gate is closer to Agra Fort and the city. Our drivers drop you at the gate that suits your timing and hotel.
Tickets
Buy tickets online on the official ASI website to skip the ticket queue — there are different prices for Indian citizens, SAARC/BIMSTEC visitors and other foreign nationals, plus an optional add-on for entering the main mausoleum. Children below 15 enter free.
What can you carry?
- Allowed: mobile phone, camera, small water bottle, wallet, passport/ID.
- Not allowed: food, tripods, drones, large bags, chargers and power banks, tobacco, knives.
- Shoe covers are given at the main platform — no need to remove your shoes.
How long do you need?
Plan 2–3 hours for the Taj Mahal itself. With Agra Fort and Itimad-ud-Daulah, Agra fits comfortably in a full day; add Fatehpur Sikri and you will want an overnight stay.
Plan it with us
Coming from Delhi? Our Same Day Agra Tour by Car picks you up at 6 AM and gets you back the same night, and the Agra & Fatehpur Sikri Overnight Tour includes the Taj at sunrise.
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