The Complete Taj Mahal Guide

What the Taj Mahal actually is

The Taj Mahal is an ivory-white marble mausoleum on the south bank of the Yamuna river in Agra. It was commissioned by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in 1632 to house the tomb of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, and took roughly 20,000 craftsmen more than two decades to complete. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the seven wonders of the modern world.

When to go

The high season is October to March, when the weather is cool and clear. Visit at sunrise for the softest light, smallest crowds and the famous pink-to-gold colour shift on the marble. Avoid Fridays — the monument is closed for prayers — and the harshest summer months of May and June.

See the full month-by-month best time to visit breakdown.

Entry, gates and timing

Three gates lead into the outer complex: East, West and South. The East gate is the calmest entry for sunrise and is closest to the high-end hotels. The West gate is busiest with tour groups. Security is similar to an airport — large bags, food, tobacco, lighters and tripods are not allowed inside. See the full opening hours and tickets guide.

Inside the complex

Beyond the main mausoleum, the Taj Mahal complex includes the red sandstone mosque to the west, the matching Mehmaan Khana (guest house) to the east, the Char Bagh Mughal gardens divided by water channels, and the Great Gate (Darwaza-i-Rauza). The view from the central reflection pool and the famous “Diana bench” are the iconic photo locations — see our photography guide.

Practical tips from a licensed guide

• Arrive 30 minutes before opening time to be near the front of the security line.
• Carry your passport (or government ID for Indian nationals) — it is required at the ticket counter.
• Wear comfortable shoes; shoe covers are provided at the mausoleum but you walk a lot before that.
• Bring only a small bag, a phone and a camera. Most other items must be checked in.
• Pre-book a government-approved guide rather than hire one at the gate — quality varies hugely.