Taj Mahal

Overview

The Taj Mahal was commissioned by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Built of white marble on the bank of the Yamuna, it is widely regarded as the finest example of Mughal architecture.

The mausoleum stands on a raised platform with four minarets, at the end of a formal charbagh garden. Its marble changes colour through the day: pale pink at dawn, white at noon and golden in late light.

What to look for

• The pietra dura inlay of semi-precious stones set into the marble
• The calligraphy framing the main arch, scaled so the letters look even from the ground
• The view back along the garden from the terrace
• Mehtab Bagh across the river for the classic view without the crowds

Visiting tips

• The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays.
• Choose the earliest entry: the first hour is calmest and the light is softest.
• Security is strict. Bring only a small bag and leave tripods, food and large electronics behind.
• Dress modestly. Shoe covers or bare feet are needed on the marble platform.
• Ticket prices and rules change, so check them before you travel.

Why visit with a private guide

A private guide shows you where to stand, when to arrive and what most visitors miss at Taj Mahal, and fits the visit around the rest of your day.

More photographs

Nearby

Agra Fort Itimad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj) Buland Darwaza Mehtab Bagh (Taj view) Akbar's Tomb Prem Mandir Salim Chishti Tomb