The Taj Mahal is not just a monument, it is the soul of Agra and a timeless symbol of love that attracts millions of visitors every year. While almost every traveler dreams of witnessing its beauty, planning your visit with the correct timing can make all the difference. From catching the first rays of the sun reflecting on its marble to admiring its golden glow at sunset, the timings of the Taj Mahal are as important as the visit itself.
In this guide, you will discover everything you need to know about the opening and closing hours, night viewing, weekly schedules, and the best time to visit the Taj Mahal to ensure your trip becomes unforgettable.
Taj Mahal Timing – Opening and Closing Hours Explained
The Taj Mahal opens at sunrise and closes at sunset every day (except Fridays). However, understanding this in detail helps travelers plan perfectly. The official timings usually range from 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM, depending on the season.
Opening Time of Taj Mahal
Visiting the Taj Mahal early in the morning has its own magic. The gates usually open around 6:00 AM, allowing visitors to step inside just before or during sunrise. At this time, the white marble monument glows with soft hues of pink and golden light, offering a peaceful atmosphere with fewer crowds.
During the summer months (March to June), sunrise can happen earlier, around 5:30–5:45 AM, while in the winter (December to February), it may be closer to 6:45 AM. So, it is best to check the seasonal sunrise timings while planning your Taj Mahal tour packages to make the most of this magical experience.
The early morning hours are particularly recommended for photographers and travelers who want to avoid the heavy tourist rush. Not only does the cooler climate make walking around more comfortable, but it also gives you uninterrupted moments to admire the intricate carvings and gardens.
Closing Time of Taj Mahal
The closing hours of the Taj Mahal are equally important. The monument closes at sunset (approximately 6:30–7:00 PM). The late afternoon visit offers a completely different experience, as the marble starts reflecting golden and orange hues of the setting sun.
During summers, sunset usually occurs around 7:00 PM, while in winters it can be as early as 5:30 PM. If you are someone who enjoys calmer evenings, visiting a couple of hours before closing gives you enough time to explore the gardens, the Yamuna River view, and capture postcard-worthy sunset moments.
However, remember that the security officials begin clearing out visitors 30 minutes before closing, so it’s always advisable to plan your visit in advance. Many travelers combine their best Taj Mahal tours with a sunset viewing, as it is one of the most romantic and visually striking experiences at this monument.
Weekly Schedule of Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal remains open for visitors six days a week. The only exception is Friday, when the monument is closed for general tourists as prayers are conducted at the mosque inside.
So, if you’re planning a same-day trip or an overnight stay in Agra, avoid scheduling your visit on a Friday. For travelers who want to design a smooth itinerary, choosing packages that align with this schedule is essential.
Night Viewing of the Taj Mahal
Apart from the regular sunrise-to-sunset timings, the Taj Mahal also offers a rare night viewing experience. This is allowed on five nights each month — the full moon night and two nights before and after it.
The timing for night viewing is from 8:30 PM to 12:30 AM, divided into eight batches of 50 people each. Standing in front of the illuminated white marble under the full moonlight is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Tickets for night viewing need to be purchased a day in advance from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) office in Agra. It’s a highly recommended experience for those who want to see the Taj in its most mystical form.
Best Time to Visit the Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is a timeless monument that looks magnificent at every hour of the day, but if you want to experience its beauty in the most magical way, choosing the right time is essential. The best time to visit the Taj Mahal depends on the season, weather, and even the time of the day. Each setting highlights a different charm of this marble wonder.
Early Morning (Sunrise)
The early morning hours, especially around sunrise, are considered the most beautiful time to visit the Taj Mahal. The soft golden rays of the rising sun gently reflect on the white marble, giving it a pinkish hue that feels almost surreal. The atmosphere is calm, the crowd is minimal, and the cool breeze from the Yamuna River creates a peaceful setting.
For photographers, this is the perfect time to capture the monument without too many people in the frame. Many travelers plan their Taj Mahal tour packages to ensure they reach Agra before dawn, so they can witness this magical moment.
Evening (Sunset)
The sunset view of the Taj Mahal is equally breathtaking. As the sun begins to set, the white marble turns into shades of orange and golden, making the entire structure glow against the backdrop of the Yamuna River. It is one of the most romantic times to be at the monument, often chosen by couples for its enchanting ambiance.
This time also allows you to enjoy a relaxed tour after exploring the nearby sites such as Agra Fort or Mehtab Bagh. Many of the best Taj Mahal tours include a sunset visit because of its unmatched charm.
Full Moon Nights
A truly unique experience is visiting the Taj Mahal on a full moon night. On these nights, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) allows night viewing, and the marble glows under the moonlight, giving the mausoleum a heavenly appearance.
Only a limited number of tickets are sold for this rare experience, and it is available two days before and two days after the full moon. The sight of the Taj under the silver moonlight is so surreal that it feels like a dream come alive.
Seasonal Considerations
- October to March (Winter Season): This is the peak tourist season and widely considered the best time of the year to visit. The weather is cool and pleasant, making it easier to explore Agra’s monuments without discomfort. Winter mornings are especially popular for Taj Mahal tour by car from Delhi since the road journey is enjoyable in the crisp weather.
- April to June (Summer Season): The summer months in Agra can get extremely hot, with temperatures soaring above 40°C. If you plan to visit during this time, sunrise visits are recommended to avoid the harsh afternoon heat.
- July to September (Monsoon Season): Monsoon brings lush greenery and fewer crowds. The monument looks fresh after rainfall, and photography lovers find this season ideal. However, heavy rains may sometimes disrupt travel plans.
Recommended Time Slots for Visitors
If you want the most comfortable and photogenic experience, aim for either sunrise (6:00 AM onwards depending on the season) or sunset (around 5:30–7:00 PM). These hours not only give you stunning views but also help you avoid long queues and the peak daytime crowd.
Tips to Plan Your Taj Mahal Visit Based on Timing
- Arrive Early: Be at the entry gates at least 30 minutes before sunrise if you want to catch the monument in its most peaceful state.
- Carry ID Proof: Tickets are checked along with identification at the entrance.
- Choose Entry Gates Wisely: The East and West gates open for general tourists, while the South gate is less crowded but opens a bit later.
- Plan Around Prayer Hours: Fridays are closed for prayers, so plan your itinerary accordingly.
- Book Tickets in Advance: For night viewing or peak season, buy tickets early to avoid last-minute hassle.
- Combine with Agra’s Attractions: After visiting the Taj, explore Agra Fort, Mehtab Bagh, or Fatehpur Sikri for a full-day cultural journey.
Why Timing Matters for Your Taj Mahal Tour
Visiting the Taj Mahal is not just about reaching Agra; it’s about experiencing its beauty under the perfect light and atmosphere. Morning gives serenity, evening offers golden reflections, and night adds romance. This is why planning your trip with correct timings becomes the highlight of your itinerary.
Many travelers book Taj Mahal tour packages to ensure they don’t miss out on the sunrise or sunset slots, while others prefer customized tours like the best Taj Mahal tours to include both day and night experiences. If you are coming from Delhi, opting for a Taj Mahal tour by car gives you flexibility to reach early or stay late, making your trip more personalized.
Final Thoughts
The Taj Mahal is open every day except Friday, from sunrise to sunset, with special night viewings on full moon days. Whether you wish to admire it in the soft glow of dawn, the golden light of dusk, or under a moonlit sky, the timings of the Taj Mahal play a crucial role in shaping your experience.
Plan ahead, choose the right season, and align your visit with your preferred viewing time to make the most of this unforgettable monument of love.