The Taj Mahal, a masterpiece of Mughal architecture and one of the most iconic monuments in the world, continues to draw visitors from every corner of the globe. Located in Agra, India, this magnificent white marble mausoleum was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Whether you are visiting for its architectural brilliance, its romantic history, or its cultural significance, the Taj Mahal is an experience like no other.
If you’re a foreign tourist planning a trip to India, one of your key considerations will be the cost of visiting the Taj Mahal. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the Taj Mahal entry fee for foreigners, along with tips, timings, what’s included in the ticket, and more.
Entry Fees for the Taj Mahal (2025)
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), which manages the Taj Mahal, has set different prices for different categories of visitors. Below is a comprehensive table outlining the current fee structure.
Taj Mahal Entry Fee Breakdown
| Visitor Category | Entry Fee | Mausoleum Access Fee | Total (With Mausoleum) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foreign Nationals | ₹1,100 | ₹200 | ₹1,300 |
| SAARC Nationals | ₹540 | ₹200 | ₹740 |
| BIMSTEC Nationals | ₹540 | ₹200 | ₹740 |
| Indian Citizens | ₹50 | ₹200 | ₹250 |
| Children below 15 years | Free | Free | Free |
Note:
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The Mausoleum Access Fee is optional. It grants entry to the inner chamber of the Taj Mahal, where symbolic tombs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal are located.
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SAARC includes Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
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BIMSTEC includes Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
What is Included in the Foreigner Ticket?
Foreign tourists purchasing the ₹1,100 ticket receive several complimentary items and services, which add value to the visit:
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Entry to the Taj Mahal complex (including gardens, mosque, and guest house)
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Bottled drinking water
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Shoe covers (mandatory for entering the main mausoleum)
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Tourist map of Agra
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Battery-operated shuttle service from the parking area to the entrance gate
These inclusions make the experience more convenient, especially during hot weather or crowded seasons.
Also Read: Taj Mahal full moon night dates 2025
Optional Entry to the Main Mausoleum
While general entry allows you to explore most of the Taj Mahal grounds, the main mausoleum chamber is a special part of the site that requires an additional fee of ₹200.
Inside, visitors can view the intricately designed tombs of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan, which are replicas of the actual tombs resting in a crypt below. This section is more restricted and visitors are expected to follow silence and maintain decorum.
Taj Mahal Timings and Best Time to Visit
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Opening Hours: The Taj Mahal is open from sunrise to sunset, typically around 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM.
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Closed: Every Friday for general visitors. Open only for Muslims for Friday prayers.
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Night Viewing: Available on full moon night, two days before and two days after the full moon (excluding Fridays and during the month of Ramadan).
Best Time to Visit
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October to March: The most pleasant time for sightseeing, with cool weather and clear skies.
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April to June: Temperatures can be extremely high; visit early in the morning.
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July to September: Monsoon season; occasional rain may affect visibility and comfort.
Where to Buy Tickets
You can purchase Taj Mahal entry tickets in two ways:
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Online Booking (Recommended):
Visit the official ASI website or trusted platforms like asi.payumoney.com or Yatra, MakeMyTrip, etc. -
On-site Ticket Counters:
Available near the Eastern, Western, and Southern gates. However, queues can be long during tourist seasons.
Online booking is often cheaper (as some platforms offer small discounts) and helps avoid waiting.
How to Reach the Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, and is accessible by various modes of transport:
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By Air: Nearest airport is Agra Airport (AGR). Alternatively, you can fly into Delhi and take a road or rail connection to Agra.
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By Train: Agra Cantt is the main railway station, well-connected to Delhi, Jaipur, and other major cities.
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By Road: Agra is about 230 km from Delhi and can be reached in 3-4 hours via the Yamuna Expressway.
Local electric buses, cycle rickshaws, and battery-operated carts take you close to the monument gate, as fuel-based vehicles are not allowed near the site.
Also Read: Taj Mahal Sunrise Tour
Travel Tips for Foreign Visitors
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Visit early in the morning for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
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Dress modestly and comfortably, especially in summer.
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Hire a licensed guide to understand the historical context and architectural details.
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Carry a valid photo ID, especially if you booked tickets online.
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Do not bring large bags, drones, or food items as these are restricted.
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Respect local customs, especially in religious areas of the complex.
Nearby Attractions in Agra
While the Taj Mahal is the highlight, you can enhance your trip by visiting these nearby attractions:
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Agra Fort – A UNESCO World Heritage Site located just 2.5 km from the Taj Mahal.
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Mehtab Bagh – Offers a beautiful view of the Taj Mahal across the Yamuna River.
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Itimad-ud-Daulah – Known as the “Baby Taj,” a precursor to the Taj Mahal.
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Fatehpur Sikri – A historic city located about 40 km from Agra.
Conclusion
A visit to the Taj Mahal is a must for anyone traveling to India. With its stunning architecture, rich history, and emotional legacy, it promises an unforgettable experience. Understanding the entry fee structure, inclusions, and timings can help you plan your visit more effectively and enjoy every moment of this world-famous monument.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a romantic traveler, or a curious explorer, the Taj Mahal offers something deeply moving for everyone.