UNESCO Heritage Site Of India- Taj Mahal Agra: Complete Tourist Information

The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, is one of the most iconic monuments in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Renowned for its breathtaking beauty, the Taj Mahal is a symbol of love, an architectural masterpiece, and one of the most visited tourist attractions in India.

Historical Background

  • Commissioned By: Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan
  • Construction Period: 1632 – 1653
  • Architectural Style: Mughal architecture, which combines elements of Islamic, Persian, Ottoman Turkish, and Indian architectural styles.
  • Purpose: The Taj Mahal was built as a mausoleum in memory of Shah Jahan’s beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1631 during childbirth. It stands as a testament to their love and the grandeur of the Mughal Empire.

Architecture and Design

  • Main Structure: The Taj Mahal is built entirely of white marble, inlaid with semi-precious stones (pietra dura) that form intricate designs, including floral patterns and Quranic verses.
  • Dome: The central dome, which is 73 meters (240 feet) high, is surrounded by four smaller domes. The large dome is often referred to as an “onion dome” due to its shape.
  • Minarets: Four minarets, each over 40 meters tall, are positioned at the corners of the platform, slightly tilted outward to protect the main structure in the event of a collapse.
  • Gardens: The Taj Mahal is set within a vast Mughal garden (charbagh), designed in the Persian style, with pathways, reflecting pools, and lush greenery.
  • Interior: The interior of the Taj Mahal houses the cenotaphs of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan. However, the actual graves are located in a lower chamber directly beneath these cenotaphs.

UNESCO World Heritage Status

  • Inscription Date: 1983
  • Significance: The Taj Mahal was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for being “the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world’s heritage.” It represents the peak of Mughal architecture and is an enduring symbol of love, beauty, and architectural innovation.

Tourist Information

Best Time to Visit

  • Ideal Season: The best time to visit the Taj Mahal is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant.
  • Avoid: The summer months (April to June) can be extremely hot, while the monsoon season (July to September) can be unpredictable with heavy rainfall.

Opening Hours

  • Daytime: The Taj Mahal is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM, except on Fridays, when it is closed for prayers at the nearby mosque.
  • Night Viewing: The monument is open for night viewing on five days each month: the full moon night and two nights before and after it. Night viewing times are from 8:30 PM to 12:30 AM, with access in eight half-hour slots.

Entry Fees

  • Indian Citizens: ₹50 per person
  • Foreign Nationals: ₹1,100 per person
  • SAARC and BIMSTEC Countries: ₹540 per person
  • Children (below 15 years): Free
  • Additional Charges: An extra ₹200 fee is charged for entry into the main mausoleum (the inner chamber).

Tickets can be purchased online via the Archaeological Survey of India’s official website or at the ticket counters near the site.

How to Reach

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Agra’s Kheria Airport, located about 13 kilometers from the Taj Mahal. However, it is more convenient to fly into Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, which is approximately 220 kilometers away, and then drive to Agra.
  • By Rail: Agra is well-connected by train, with the Agra Cantt, Agra Fort, and Agra City stations being the major railway stations. The Gatimaan Express and Shatabdi Express are popular trains from Delhi.
  • By Road: Agra is connected to Delhi by the Yamuna Expressway, which takes about 3-4 hours by car. There are also regular bus services from Delhi and other major cities in Uttar Pradesh.

Guided Tours

  • Official Guides: Hiring a licensed guide is highly recommended to fully appreciate the history, architecture, and stories behind the Taj Mahal. Official guides can be booked in advance or hired at the site.
  • Audio Guides: Audio guides are also available for rent, offering detailed information in multiple languages.

Nearby Attractions

  1. Agra Fort: Just 2.5 kilometers from the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and was the main residence of the Mughal emperors before Delhi.
  2. Mehtab Bagh: Located across the Yamuna River, this garden offers a stunning view of the Taj Mahal, especially at sunset.
  3. Fatehpur Sikri: About 40 kilometers from Agra, this former Mughal capital is another UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved palaces and mosques.
  4. Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb: Often referred to as the “Baby Taj,” this tomb is a smaller but equally beautiful example of Mughal architecture.

Photography Tips

  • Best Time for Photos: The early morning and late afternoon are ideal for photography, with the soft light enhancing the marble’s glow. The colors of the Taj Mahal change with the light throughout the day, offering different moods and perspectives.
  • Classic Shots: The view from the main entrance gateway, with the Taj Mahal framed by the arch, is a must-capture. The reflection of the Taj Mahal in the central pool is another iconic shot.
  • Night Photography: If you visit during the night viewing, try to capture the Taj Mahal bathed in the light of the full moon.

Visitor Tips

  • Footwear: Visitors must remove their shoes or wear shoe covers before entering the main mausoleum. Shoe covers are often provided at the entrance.
  • Dress Code: While there is no strict dress code, it is advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting the mosque.
  • Security: The Taj Mahal has strict security checks. Large bags, food, and electronic gadgets (except cameras and phones) are not allowed inside. Only small bags with essential items are permitted.
  • Crowd Management: The Taj Mahal can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons and on weekends. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon can help avoid the largest crowds.

Significance

The Taj Mahal is not just an architectural wonder; it is also a symbol of the rich history and cultural heritage of India. Its beauty has inspired poets, artists, and travelers for centuries, making it one of the most beloved and recognized landmarks in the world. Visiting the Taj Mahal is an experience that offers a deep connection with India’s past and its enduring legacy of love and art.