About Taj Mahal - Agra Travel Guide

Destination Overview – Taj Mahal, Agra

Taj Mahal, located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, is one of the most iconic monuments in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, this white marble mausoleum is a timeless symbol of love and architectural brilliance. It is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, attracting millions of visitors from around the globe each year.

Top Attractions & Places to Visit

Historic Monuments:

• Taj Mahal – Marvel at the intricately carved marble structure, best viewed at sunrise or full moon nights

• Agra Fort – Another UNESCO site, a majestic red sandstone fort once home to the Mughal emperors

• Mehtab Bagh – A riverside garden offering a breathtaking rear view of the Taj across the Yamuna

• Itmad-ud-Daulah – Known as the "Baby Taj", a delicate marble tomb and Mughal masterpiece

• Akbar’s Tomb (Sikandra) – Grand mausoleum of Emperor Akbar with beautiful Mughal-style architecture

Cultural Experiences:

• Taj Museum – Located within the Taj complex, it showcases Mughal artifacts and blueprints

• Kalakriti Cultural & Convention Center – Catch live shows like "Mohabbat-e-Taj" based on the Taj's history

Best Time to Visit

• October to March – Best time with cool and pleasant weather

• April to June – Hot summers but fewer crowds

• July to September – Monsoon adds charm but plan around rainfall

How to Reach

• By Air: Agra Airport (Kheria) – Limited flights; nearest major airport is Delhi (220 km)

• By Train: Agra Cantt Station – Major railhead with regular trains from Delhi, Jaipur, Lucknow

• By Road: Well connected to Delhi (3.5 hrs via Yamuna Expressway)

Accessibility for Differently-Abled Travelers

• Wheelchair access is available at the Taj Mahal and other major monuments

• Golf carts & battery-operated vehicles available from parking to the Taj gate

• Ramps and accessible restrooms available in main tourist areas

Things to Do & Experiences

• Watch the Taj Mahal at sunrise and sunset for different hues

• Enjoy boat rides on the Yamuna for rare views of the monument

• Shop for marble inlay crafts, leather goods, and carpets in Sadar Bazaar

• Take a heritage walk through the old city

• Try Agra petha and local Mughlai delicacies

• Witness a live cultural show at night

Accommodation Options

Luxury:

• The Oberoi Amarvilas – Direct Taj view rooms and ultimate luxury

• ITC Mughal – Heritage-style luxury with Mughal-inspired gardens

• Jaypee Palace Hotel – Resort-style property with grand architecture

Mid-Range:

• Trident Agra – Elegant property with lush gardens

• Hotel Taj Resorts – Budget-friendly with rooftop Taj views

• Crystal Sarovar Premiere – Modern stay with good amenities

Budget:

• Zostel Agra – Backpacker friendly, walking distance from Taj

• Hotel Alleviate – Good value with comfortable rooms

• Joey’s Hostel – Great for solo travelers & youth

Local Cuisine & Dining

Must Try:

• Agra Petha, Mughlai Biryani, Bedai-Kachori, Tandoori Chicken

Top Food Spots:

• Pinch of Spice – Popular among tourists for North Indian food

• Jahanpanah – Authentic Mughlai cuisine

• Dasaprakash – Best vegetarian South Indian meals

• Mama Chicken – Famous for spicy Indian street-style non-veg

• Sheroes Café – Run by acid-attack survivors; food with a purpose

Travel Tips & Safety

• Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays for general public

• Avoid guides outside gates; hire authorized guides only

• Buy tickets online to skip queues

• Follow dress code and remove shoes inside mausoleum

• Drones are not allowed near monuments

Weather & Packing Suggestions

Winter (Oct–Feb): Jacket, shawl, sunglasses
Summer (Apr–Jun): Cotton clothes, sunscreen, hat
Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Umbrella, slip-resistant shoes

Currency & Connectivity

• All monuments accept UPI & card payments

• Good mobile network (Jio, Airtel)

• Free Wi-Fi zones near some monuments and hotels

Suggested Itinerary

2N/3D Sample Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive → Visit Agra Fort → Mehtab Bagh at sunset
Day 2: Sunrise visit to Taj Mahal → Baby Taj → Akbar’s Tomb
Day 3: Local shopping → Kalakriti show or optional Fatehpur Sikri trip → Departure

Shopping & Souvenirs

• Marble miniatures of Taj Mahal, leather shoes, brassware, carpets

• Best Markets: Sadar Bazaar, Kinari Bazaar, Subhash Bazaar

Cultural & Historical Background

The Taj Mahal was commissioned in 1632 AD and took 22 years to complete. Over 20,000 artisans and craftsmen worked on this masterpiece. Built entirely in white Makrana marble, it is a perfect blend of Persian, Islamic, and Indian architectural styles. The monument stands as a symbol of eternal love, and its reflection in the Yamuna River is equally breathtaking.

Local Transport Options

• Tuk-tuks, battery rickshaws, cycle rickshaws for local rides

• Auto and taxi apps (Uber, Ola) work well

• City buses and e-rickshaws for short commutes

• Horse carriages (tongas) available near Taj Mahal for traditional experience

Nearest Railway Station

• Agra Cantt (AGC) – Main railway station

• Also nearby: Agra Fort Station, Raja Ki Mandi

FAQs About Taj Mahal Tour

How much is the entry fee for Taj Mahal?
₹50 (Indian) / ₹1100 (Foreigners) + ₹200 for Mausoleum entry

Can I take a DSLR inside the Taj Mahal?
Yes, but tripods and drones are not allowed.

How much time to explore the Taj Mahal?
2–3 hours is ideal for a full tour.

Can I visit both Agra Fort and Taj on the same day?
Yes, they are just 2.5 km apart and easily doable.

Sustainability & Responsible Tourism

• Do not touch or deface marble surfaces

• Carry reusable water bottles

• Avoid littering in gardens and monuments

• Support local artisans and NGOs like Sheroes

• Use eco-rickshaws or walk around the old city