Visit the Taj Mahal

Plan your Visit in Advance

The Taj Mahal is extremely popular, so planning your visit in advance is crucial. Consider visiting during weekdays when it is less crowded to fully appreciate the beauty of this magnificent place. You may visit the Taj Mahal at any time of year, although October through March is the ideal season for dry weather. Steer clear of the monsoon rains (May-September) and the sweltering heat wave (April-May). When visiting in the winter months (November to February), expect fog or pollution in the early morning! The pollution and fog at the Taj Mahal during a sunrise tour may make it difficult for you to take stunning pictures. When visiting during the dry winter months, the best times to go are in the midmorning around 10 AM or the late afternoon around 3 PM. There won’t be long lines at the gates, and the lighting will be superb. The Sunrise tours have gotten to be super popular, so be prepared to wait to take pictures! The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays so make sure to factor that into your travel schedule! On regular business days, the Taj Mahal opens thirty minutes before sunrise and closes thirty minutes before dusk.

Capture the Magic

The Taj Mahal is an architectural masterpiece and a photographer’s paradise. Make sure to bring your camera or smartphone to capture the beauty of this iconic monument. However, be respectful of signs that indicate areas where photography is not allowed. While taking pictures is allowed, don’t use tripods or take pictures for commercial purposes without permission. Show consideration for other guests. I took every photo between ten in the morning and one in the afternoon. Don’t worry, even if there are crowds, you will still be able to capture stunning photographs. To obtain the ideal shot, you might wait in a short line. Be sure to explore the grounds to capture some interesting pictures! Make sure to bring a small portable power bank with you so that you always capture the perfect shots. I travel with this small lightweight power bank!

Hire a Local Guide

To truly appreciate the historical and cultural significance of the Taj Mahal, consider hiring a local guide. They can provide you with interesting facts, stories, and insights that you might not discover on your own. Additionally, a guide can help you navigate through the complex and explain the intricate details of the architecture. Additionally, most of the local guides will also serve as your photographer so there is no need to hire the photographers that wait at the entrance.

Make sure you don’t bring these items into the Taj Mahal

To ensure the preservation and sanctity of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, certain items are restricted from entry. Here’s a quick rundown of items prohibited within the Taj Mahal premises:

• Large Bags and Backpacks: For security reasons and to prevent damage to the monument, large bags, and backpacks are not allowed inside. Travel light with only essential items. Make sure to not have any make-up or writing essentials in your bags as these items may be taken away as in the past visitors have defaced the monument.

• Tobacco and Lighters: Smoking is strictly prohibited within the Taj Mahal complex. Tobacco products and lighters are not allowed to maintain the site’s cleanliness and respect its sanctity.

• Tripods and Professional Camera Equipment: Unless authorized for commercial purposes, tripods and professional photography equipment are not allowed. Small cameras and mobile phones for personal use are generally permitted. Using drones for photography or videography within the Taj Mahal premises is not allowed due to security and privacy concerns. You can bring in a small portable cell phone battery pack charger.

• Sharp Objects and Weapons: To ensure the safety of all visitors, sharp objects, weapons, and any potentially harmful items are strictly prohibited.
  Food and Drinks: Outside food and beverages, except for water in transparent bottles, are not permitted.

Day Trips:

While the Taj Mahal is undoubtedly the highlight of Agra, there are other fascinating attractions nearby worth exploring. Don’t miss the Agra Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage site, located just a few kilometers away. You can also take a leisurely stroll along the Yamuna River or visit the nearby Mehtab Bagh for a different perspective of the Taj Mahal. To learn more about Agra’s rich history, visit nearby markets, Fatehpur Sikri, the Tomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah, and other historical landmarks.

• Pinch of Spice: This versatile fine dining venue offers a blend of Indian, Chinese, and even Italian dishes, creating an all-encompassing experience that ignites both nostalgia and appetite. Moreover, it boasts a comprehensive bar selection, enhancing the overall dining experience. If you are looking for something less spicy try the Butter Chicken Boneless!

• Sky Grill: Perched atop a charming rooftop, this restaurant not only tantalizes your taste buds with an exquisite array of delectable dishes but also provides an ambiance that is second to none. The menu at Sky Grill boasts a diverse selection of authentic Indian cuisine and international delights, expertly crafted to satisfy every palate. The sight of the majestic Taj Mahal against the backdrop of the sky adds an enchanting touch to your meal, making it an unforgettable feast for both the senses and the soul.