Discover The Taj Mahal Agra

Learn more about the love story behind one of the world’s most iconic buildings, the Taj Mahal Agra, built between 1631 and 1653 by the Mughal king Shah Jahan as the final resting place for his beloved wife. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and Wonder of the World, the 22 domes represent the years it took to construct this mesmerising palace.

Other places of interest in Agra included Agra Fort and nearby Fatehpur Sikri

Facts about the Taj Mahal

  • The Taj Mahal is one of the 7 Wonders of the World
  • It was used as a location in the film Slumdog Millionaire and ITV’s Beecham House.
  • The 22 small domes on top of the gate represent the number of years the monument took to build.
  • The palace combines Islamic, Persian and Indian architecture
  • The Taj Mahal would have cost around $1bn to build today

When to visit the Taj Mahal

As it’s such a popular landmark, the Taj Mahal is busy all the time. However, if you can stand the heat between April and September, this will be a slightly quieter time of year to visit.

Set an early alarm clock to arrive at 6am when it opens for a quieter visit. Failing that, try late afternoon when the volume of crowds begins to lessen. If you’re after a full moon photo, night time viewings are allowed, except during the month of Ramadan.

And most important of all, when arranging your travel dates please be aware that the Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays.

Top tips for visiting the Taj Mahal

There are a few different entry gates, but they all charge the same. The most crowded is the West Gate, so the South and East are better choices. Shoes are not permitted inside, but you will be given shoe covers to wear inside if you don’t want to go barefoot.

According to the Archaeological Survey of India, which runs the Taj Mahal, the average tourist spends 35 minutes taking pictures, 25 minutes inside the dome and 10 minutes in the mausoleum.

The best way to see the Taj Mahal and Agra

If you would like to visit Agra, why not take a look at one of our wonderful ATOL and ABTA protected holidays?  Please remember all our private tours are designed to meet your exact requirements, and the tours mentioned are just examples to help inspire you.

Contact our travel experts on 01792 315499 or email info@aitholidays.com for more information.