How To Reach Taj Mahal?

The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Below is a complete guide covering how to reach the Taj Mahal, ticket details for Indian and foreign tourists, nearby tourist spots, best hotels, currency tips, and terms and conditions for visiting.

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How to Reach Taj Mahal:

1. By Air:

   • Nearest Airport: Agra's Kheria Airport (AGR) (13 km from Taj Mahal) offers limited domestic flights.
   • Alternative Airports:
     • Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), New Delhi (approximately 220 km from Agra). From there, you can take a taxi or a train to Agra.

2. By Train:

   • Agra Cantt Railway Station: The primary railway station in Agra, around 6 km from the Taj Mahal.
   • Trains to Agra: Frequent trains from New Delhi (like the Gatimaan Express and Shatabdi Express) as well as trains from other cities like Jaipur, Varanasi, and Mumbai.

3. By Road:

   • From Delhi: Agra is around 230 km from New Delhi and takes approximately 3-4 hours via the Yamuna Expressway, a smooth toll road.
   • From Jaipur: Agra is around 240 km from Jaipur, and the drive takes about 4-5 hours via National Highway 21.

4. By Bus:

   • You can catch government and private buses from Delhi, Jaipur, and other nearby cities to Agra. The ISBT Bus Stand in Agra is close to the city center.

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Ticket Information:

1. Indian Tourists:

   • Entry Fee: ₹50
   • Additional charge for visiting the main mausoleum: ₹200
   • Free Entry for children below 15 years (both Indians and foreigners).

2. Foreign Tourists:

   • Entry Fee: ₹1100
   • Additional charge for visiting the main mausoleum: ₹200
   • Free Entry for children below 15 years.

3. SAARC/BIMSTEC Tourists (Tourists from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Pakistan, Myanmar, Thailand):

   • Entry Fee: ₹540
   • Additional charge for visiting the main mausoleum: ₹200.

4. Entry Timings:

   • Open from 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM, closed on Fridays (except for the afternoon prayers for locals).
   • Night Viewing: Available on full moon nights and two days before and after, from 8:30 PM to 12:30 AM (book tickets 24 hours in advance).

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Nearby Tourist Spots:

1. Agra Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage site, located 2.5 km from the Taj Mahal.
2. Mehtab Bagh: Across the Yamuna River, this garden offers stunning views of the Taj Mahal, especially at sunset.
3. Fatehpur Sikri: A historical town located 40 km from Agra, known for its Mughal architecture.
4. Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb: Often referred to as the "Baby Taj," this is another beautiful Mughal tomb.

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Best Hotels near the Taj Mahal:

1. Luxury Options:

   • The Oberoi Amarvilas: A 5-star luxury hotel with stunning views of the Taj Mahal, just 600 meters away.
   • ITC Mughal: Luxurious property with spacious rooms, located 1.5 km from the Taj Mahal.

2. Mid-range Options:

   • Hotel Taj Resorts: Located just 500 meters from the East Gate of the Taj Mahal, offering affordable rates and modern amenities.
   • Crystal Sarovar Premiere: A well-known mid-range hotel 2 km from the Taj Mahal, offering comfortable rooms and great dining options.

3. Budget Options:

   • Zostel Agra: Popular among backpackers, this hostel is located just 1.5 km from the Taj Mahal.
   • Hotel Sidhartha: A budget hotel located 1 km from the Taj Mahal, offering basic amenities.

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Currency:

• The official currency of India is the Indian Rupee (₹/INR).
• Currency Exchange: Available at major airports, hotels, and authorized exchange centers in Agra.
• ATMs: Plenty of ATMs are available around Agra for easy cash withdrawals. Credit/debit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and major stores.

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Terms & Conditions for Visiting the Taj Mahal:

1. Photography:

   • Photography is allowed except inside the main mausoleum.
   • No tripods or professional equipment are permitted without prior permission.

2. Prohibited Items:

   • Food, drinks (except water bottles), tobacco, and other items are not allowed inside the monument.
   • Large bags, drones, and sharp objects are also prohibited.

3. Security Checks:

   • There are strict security checks before entering. It's advised to carry only essential items like a wallet, phone, and camera.

4. Footwear:

   • You need to either remove your shoes or wear shoe covers (available for free) when entering the main mausoleum.

5. Time Limit:

   • Visitors are allowed to stay for 3 hours after entry, after which an additional fee may be charged.

6. Best Time to Visit:

   • October to March: Pleasant weather, ideal for exploring.
   • Full Moon Nights: For a magical view of the Taj Mahal under the moonlight, visit during full moon nights (book your night viewing ticket in advance).

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Helpful Tips:

• Arrive Early: To avoid crowds, especially during sunrise.
• Guides: Official guides are available at the entrance. Avoid unofficial guides to ensure an authentic experience.
• Online Booking: Tickets can be booked online via the official website or through the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) portal.

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By following these tips and guidelines, your visit to the Taj Mahal should be an enriching and smooth experience!