Millions of tourists from all over the world visit the Taj Mahal every year because it is one of the most stunning and amazing structures in the entire world. Delhi, the nation’s capital, makes for an easy starting place for a day excursion to the Taj Mahal. We’ll provide you with all the details you require in this article.
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How to Get to The Taj Mahal from Delhi
How to Get to The Taj Mahal from DelhiThere are various ways to get from Delhi to the Taj Mahal by transit. The most well-liked method is by rail, and it takes about two hours. A personalized tour, renting a car, or taking a bus are other options. Depending on your preferred mode of transportation and level of comfort, the cost of these alternatives varies.
Tain: The cost of a one-way ticket ranges from INR 150 to 500 (about $2 to $7), depending on the class of travel. To guarantee availability, it is advised to make reservations in advance, especially during the busiest season.
Private Car: Costs range from INR 6,000–8,000 (about $80-$110) for a full-day tour, depending on the type of car and the inclusions.
Bus: The cost of a one-way ticket ranges from INR 200 to 500 (about $3 to $7), depending on the bus company and the type of bus.
Entrance Fees and Opening Hours
Entrance Fees and Opening HoursEntry costs are greater for visitors from outside the country. While shoe covers are required to be worn within the Taj Mahal and are included in the price of the ticket. Except on Fridays, when it is closed for prayers, the monument is open from sunrise to sunset.
The cost of a standard entry ticket to the Taj Mahal for Indian citizens is INR 50, or roughly $0.70. This ticket grants entry to the Taj Mahal complex’s main tomb, gardens, and other buildings.
A different ticket is required to gain entrance to the mosque, the Taj Museum, and other locations. Depending on the location, these tickets range in price from INR 10 to 200 (or roughly $0.15 to $2.75).
Foreign Nationals Pay Much More for Tickets: Foreign nationals pay much more for tickets to the Taj Mahal. The basic Taj Mahal entry ticket, which costs INR 1,100 (about $15), grants admittance to the complex’s main tomb, gardens, and other buildings.
A different ticket is required to gain entrance to the mosque, the Taj Museum, and other locations. Depending on the location, these tickets cost INR 200–300 (about $2.75–$4.10).
Discounts and Exemptions: Tickets are available at a reduced price for seniors (65 and older) and kids under 15 years old. Senior citizens from India pay INR 20 (about $0.30) for a basic entry ticket, whereas senior citizens from other countries pay INR 540 (about $7.40).
No matter their nationality, children under the age of 15 are entitled to free admission to the Taj Mahal.
Opening Hours
Except on Fridays, the Taj Mahal is open every day of the week. The business is open from sunrise until sunset, though the exact time’s change according to the season.
The hours of operation are from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. from April to September during the summer. The hours of operation are 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. from October through March.
It’s vital to remember that the Taj Mahal has a 30-minute last admission period before it closes. After this hour, no one is permitted to enter.
Days Closed
As previously stated, Fridays are the Taj Mahal’s off days. The mosque inside the Taj Mahal compound is in use because it is a day of prayer for Muslims.
Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are two more dates in the year on which the Taj Mahal is closed. The monument is not open to the public on certain days since they are significant Muslim holidays.
Exploring the Taj Mahal
Exploring the Taj MahalEmperor Shah Jahan erected the Taj Mahal, a marvel of Mughal architecture, in honor of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. To escape the crowds and heat, it is advisable to go either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Visitors may savor the exquisite marble carvings within the Taj Mahal as well as the stunning gardens that surround it.
Admire The Taj Mahal
Of course, the Taj Mahal’s actual structure is its greatest draw. Take your time to ponder the design’s exquisite details and background of them. An informative historical and cultural background can be provided via a guided tour to help you appreciate the monument more.
Visit the Taj Museum
The supplementary ticket for entry also grants access to the Taj Museum, which is housed within the Taj Mahal complex. The museum is home to a variety of Taj Mahal-related relics, including Mughal artwork, royal decrees, and historical pictures.
Explore the Gardens
Another notable feature of the compound is the gardens that encircle the Taj Mahal. Visitors can wander and unwind in a beautiful and tranquil environment thanks to the immaculately kept lawns and reflecting pools.
Visit The Mosque
A mosque was also constructed in the Taj Mahal complex at the same time as the monument. The mosque is open to visitors, although it should be noted that it is still a functioning house of worship and is closed when people are praying there.
Witness The Changing Colors
If you get the opportunity to visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise or sunset, you will be treated to a breathtaking display of shifting hues on the white marble of the monument. The colors which span from pink to golden hues, combine to create a captivating spectacle that should not be missed.
Tips For Your Trip To the Taj Mahal
Tips For Your Trip To the Taj MahalIt’s crucial to dress appropriately and wear comfortable shoes when visiting the Taj Mahal. You are permitted to bring a small bag for your camera and other necessities, but you cannot bring a rucksack or other large bag inside. Outside the Taj Mahal, there are many places to eat and drink, but you may also bring your own snacks and water. Last, but not least, it’s crucial to follow regional traditions and manners, such as taking off your shoes before visiting the Taj Mahal and avoiding touching or sitting on the marble.
The Taj Mahal complex offers a variety of food and beverage alternatives for visitors. The following are some options to think about:
Café Taj Terrace
The Taj Terrace Cafe, which is situated on the Taj Mahal complex’s rooftop, provides stunning views of the monument while you have a snack or dinner. Together with coffee and tea, the café offers a selection of Indian and continental meals.
Shilpgram Restaurant
In close proximity to the Taj Mahal complex, the Shilpgram Restaurant serves a variety of Indian and Mughlai dishes. The eatery is well-liked by both visitors and locals and offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.
Quick Food Stalls
Throughout the Taj Mahal complex, there are a number of fast food kiosks where visitors can grab a quick bite or snack. Sandwiches, burgers, and beverages are available at these stalls.
Vending machines
If you need a quick snack or drink and are in a hurry, the Taj Mahal complex also has vending machines. These vending machines sell soda, bottled water, and other beverages.
Outside Food
Visitors are allowed to bring their own food and drinks into the Taj Mahal complex, but it is important to note that there are no storage facilities available for large bags or coolers.
Other Things to Do in Agra
Other Things to Do in AgraThere are other worthwhile places to see in Agra in addition to the Taj Mahal, which is without a doubt the city’s biggest draw. Another site from the Mughal Empire that is worthwhile to visit is Agra Fort, which has stunning architecture and a fascinating past. The remains of Fatehpur Sikri, a ghost town that formerly served as the Mughal Empire’s capital, are intriguing to explore. Last, but not least, Mehtab Bagh is a stunning garden that provides a tranquil retreat from the crowds and is situated across the river from the Taj Mahal.
Agra Fort
Located in the Indian city of Agra, the Red Fort of Agra is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Akbar, the Mughal emperor who built the fort, used it as their primary residence from the 16th century till the middle of the 17th century.
The amazing architecture and design of Agra Fort are well known. The red sandstone used to construct the fort is used extensively, and it has numerous lovely courtyards, gardens, and palaces. The fort’s most notable buildings are the following:
At the public audience hall known as Diwan-i-Am, the emperor would meet with his subjects.
The emperor would meet with significant officials and foreign dignitaries at the Diwan-i-Khas, also known as the Hall of Private Audience.
Mehtab Bagh
also known as the Moonlight Garden, is a beautiful garden complex located on the opposite bank of the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal in Agra, India.
Mehtab Bagh is a well-liked location for both tourists and locals since it gives breathtaking views of the Taj Mahal and the Yamuna River. In addition to several lovely trees, flowers, and fountains, the garden complex houses a modest museum devoted to the history of the Mughal Empire.
Mehtab Bagh is open to visitors every day from sunrise to sunset. The entrance fee is INR 50 (approximately USD 0.70) for Indian citizens and INR 200 (approximately USD 2.80) for foreign visitors. Guided tours and audio guides are available for an additional fee.
Conclusion
From Delhi, visiting the Taj Mahal is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. You can maximize your day trip and fully experience the beauty and history of this famous landmark by paying attention to our suggestions and guidance.
FAQs
Can I buy tickets for the Taj Mahal online?
Yes, you can purchase tickets for the Taj Mahal online. However, be sure to purchase from the official website to avoid scams.
How long does it take to get from Delhi to the Taj Mahal?
The journey from Delhi to the Taj Mahal takes around two hours by train.
Can I bring food and drink inside the Taj Mahal?
No, food and drink are not allowed inside the Taj Mahal. However, there are several options available outside the monument.
Is photography allowed inside the Taj Mahal?
Yes, photography is allowed inside the Taj Mahal, but tripods and selfie sticks are not allowed.
What should I wear when visiting the Taj Mahal?
It is recommended to dress conservatively and wear comfortable shoes. Avoid wearing tight or revealing clothing, and be sure to bring a hat and sunscreen for protection from the sun.
Check out our other travel-related blog posts for more tips and inspiration on exploring new destinations on a budget. A Budget-Friendly Trip to Pondicherry