India preserves one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal. Taj Mahal is seen as a symbol of love by the world, as it is believed that it was constructed by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.

Taj Mahal

Even today, the magnificent structure stands on the banks of the river Yamuna in the Agra district of Uttar Pradesh and attracts tourists from all over the world. But to experience the Taj Mahal in the best possible way, there are a few checkpoints that one should consider before moving ahead with their travel plan. So, here is a list of dos and don’ts to make your visit hassle-free.

DOS

  1. Arrive Early for the Majestic Sunrise:
    • Catch the Taj Mahal at its sublime best by arriving early, around 5:15 am, to witness the enchanting sunrise.
    • Early mornings offer a tranquil atmosphere, allowing you to appreciate the monument’s beauty without the crowds.
  2. Choose the Comprehensive Ticket:
    • For foreign tourists, the Taj Mahal has two kinds of entry tickets: one costs 1,100 rupees (about 16 US dollars), which only allows you to reach the platform where the left and right mosques of the Taj Mahal are located to see the Taj Mahal from a distance, and the other ticket costs 1,300 rupees (about 19 US dollars) and enables you to enter the main mausoleum. In order to explore the entire structure, the latter is recommended.
  3. Engage a Knowledgeable Guide:
    • Hire a professional guide to uncover the Taj Mahal’s hidden tales. Guides bring to life the nuances of the architecture, history, and cultural intricacies that may elude online resources.
  4. Capture the Tradition on the Diana Bench:
    • Embrace the tradition of capturing a photograph on the Diana Bench, named after Princess Diana’s iconic 1992 picture. It’s a spot that connects the Taj Mahal to modern history.
  5. Strategically Plan Your Stay:
    • Choose accommodation near the East Gate for an optimal sunrise experience. This location ensures a serene entry, avoiding crowds at the West Gate and the delayed opening of the South Gate.

DON’TS

  1. Dress Modestly and Respect Local Values:
    • While there’s no strict dress code, it’s respectful to dress modestly. Avoid attire that exposes arms, legs, cleavage, and shoulders.
    • Full-sleeved clothes not only show respect but also protect from the sun. Remember to remove or cover your shoes before entering the main mausoleum.
  2. Travel Light Through Security:
    • Undergo strict security checks before entering the Taj Mahal. Only carry essentials such as bottled water (included in the ticket), a camera, a phone, and a wallet.
    • Leave unnecessary items behind to streamline the entry process.
  3. Exercise Caution with Photography:
    • Respect restrictions on photography, especially inside the main mausoleum. Some areas prohibit photography entirely.
    • Avoid jumping, indecent poses, and refrain from capturing brand logos or national flags to preserve the sanctity of the site.

Navigating the Taj Mahal with these dos and don’ts in mind ensures a culturally enriching and respectful experience. May your visit to this architectural masterpiece be filled with wonder and appreciation for its timeless beauty.