Verified Taj Mahal pricing for 2026, last updated 4 May 2026 against the official ASI portal. For all-mode Delhi-Agra travel see our Delhi to Agra Playbook.
Current 2026 Fee Structure at a Glance
| Visitor Category | Base Fee | Mausoleum Extra | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indian Citizens | ₹50 | ₹200 | ₹250 |
| SAARC + BIMSTEC | ₹540 | ₹200 | ₹740 |
| Foreign Nationals | ₹1,100 | ₹200 | ₹1,300 |
| Children under 15 | FREE | FREE | FREE |
Indian Citizens (₹50 + ₹200 mausoleum)
The base ₹50 covers entry to the complex (gardens + main mausoleum platform + outer photography). The ₹200 extra is for entering the mausoleum chamber itself. Most domestic visitors skip the chamber on first visit since the queue + brevity (you spend 90 seconds inside) doesn't justify the cost. Photographers and architecture-lovers should pay it.
Foreign Nationals (₹1,100 + ₹200)
Includes a complimentary water bottle + shoe covers + a printed map (ASI policy). The price is ASI's, set in 2018 and unchanged. The ₹200 mausoleum fee is the same for everyone. Total ₹1,300 ≈ USD 16.
SAARC + BIMSTEC Nationals (₹540 + ₹200)
Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Thailand. Carry passport — proof of nationality required at counter.
Children Under 15
Free entry, but mausoleum chamber not advised for under-5s due to crush risk in queue.
Friday Closure
Taj is closed every Friday. Period. No exceptions. Plan around it.
Online Booking via ASI Portal: Step-by-Step
- Go to asi.payumoney.com (the official portal)
- Select "Taj Mahal" + visitor category + date + time slot
- Pay via card/UPI; e-ticket emailed
- Show printout or QR at any of the 3 gates (East, West, South)
Online booking saves ~30-45 min queue time. Mandatory during Nov-Feb peak.
Which Gate Has Shorter Queues by Hour
- East gate: sunrise traffic; busiest 6-8 AM, lighter mid-day
- West gate: domestic-tourist heavy; busiest 10 AM-1 PM
- South gate: typically used by tour groups; varies by season
Tip: enter through East gate (sunrise photo) and exit through West gate (closer to most parking).
"Skip-the-Line" Reality
There is no official skip-the-line ticket at the Taj. What works: (1) book online (skip ticket counter), (2) arrive at first opening, (3) use east gate for early hours.
Mausoleum Entry: Who Needs It, When to Skip
Pay the ₹200 if: it's your first visit, you're a photographer, you want to read inscriptions inside, you have time. Skip if: tight schedule, second visit, or you have small kids who'll find the queue exhausting.
Refunds and Re-Entry Rules
Tickets non-refundable but date-changeable up to 24 hrs before through the ASI portal. No re-entry on same ticket — once you exit, that's it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the Taj Mahal entry fee in 2026?
Indian: ₹50 + ₹200 mausoleum. SAARC: ₹540 + ₹200. Foreign: ₹1,100 + ₹200. Children under 15: free.
Is Taj Mahal ticket free for Indians?
No — ₹50 base + ₹200 mausoleum if entering chamber. Children under 15 are free.
Can I book Taj Mahal tickets online?
Yes — through asi.payumoney.com. Skips the ticket counter queue.
How early does Taj Mahal open?
Sunrise — varies by season. Apr-Sep: 6 AM. Oct-Mar: 6:30 AM.
Is Taj closed on any day?
Yes — every Friday is closed. No exceptions.
Do children need tickets?
Under-15s are free. ID/age proof at counter for borderline cases.
Can I take a camera into the Taj?
Phones yes. DSLR yes (no tripod inside the platform). Professional kit needs prior permission.
What if I miss my booked time slot?
The slot is a 30-min window for entry. Beyond it, you'll need to rebook — earlier slots usually accommodate.
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