Taj Mahal

Where it is & how to get there

• From Delhi: Express trains reach Agra in about 1h45; then 15 minutes by taxi.
• Gates: East and West Gates have the shortest queues; vehicles must stop 500 m away.
• Tickets: Buy online; the mausoleum interior needs an add-on ticket. Closed to tourists on Fridays.

The story of the Taj Mahal

When his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal died in 1631, Emperor Shah Jahan began building a tomb worthy of her. About 20,000 craftsmen worked for over 20 years, finishing around 1653.

The white marble changes colour from pink at dawn to gold at sunset. Its walls are inlaid with semi-precious stones and Quranic calligraphy. Shah Jahan was later buried beside his wife. It has been a UNESCO site since 1983 and is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Best time to visit

Tips before you go

• Go at sunrise; closed to tourists on Fridays.
• Bring only a small bag; food, tripods and large bags are not allowed.
• Hire a licensed guide at the gate for the stories behind the details.

What's around the Taj Mahal

• Agra Fort2 km along the river.
• Mehtab BaghSunset view across the river.
• Taj Mahal MosqueInside the complex.
• Itimad-ud-DaulahThe 'Baby Taj'.

Questions travellers ask