Detailed Guide: Why & How to Enjoy the Best Sunrise Tour of Taj Mahal?

If you’re heading to India and want to visit the Taj Mahal, then visiting the Taj Mahal should be on the top of the list. Taj Mahal’s view at sunrise was an incredible experience. The Taj certainly has a distinct atmosphere during this time of the day.  It’s among the most beautiful and lavish structures on earth and is, without a doubt, one of the seven New marvels in the World.

This article will provide everything you need to be aware of about the dawn at the Taj Mahal, including timings and entry costs, along with some suggestions to make your sunrise Taj Mahal visit as smooth as possible!

Why Visit the Taj Mahal?

Although the Taj Mahal is indeed 100% popular, it’s because it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most stunning structures, mainly due to the intricate stonework and marble. The site is always crowded with thousands of tourists. Most of those who visit are Indians traveling through their own country, which makes it feel genuine experience than a stop at any tourist attraction. Although I am convinced that the Taj Mahal is worth your time, there are certain things to be aware of before making a trip.

3 Reason: Why should visit the sunrise tour of the Taj Mahal?

Taj Mahal’s colour changes throughout the day, which makes it an interesting feature. During the sunrise, it appears pale pink, in the afternoon, it becomes sparkling white, and in the evening, a bronzish-orange color appears. Late in the evening, the Taj looks light blue.

It is strongly recommended to go to the Taj Mahal before Sunrise, particularly around dawn, when crowds aren’t too overwhelming, and the skies are likely to clear. The first rays of sunlight reflecting off this monument’s stunning crystal-clear white stone are gorgeous. In India, Tourists can enjoy the Taj Mahal Sunrise Tour, which is sure to be among the most memorable tours in every person’s lifetime

Sunrise at Taj Mahal and Agra Fort Trip from Delhi

1. A smaller crowd

The Taj Mahal is open to visitors from 6.00 AM each day, excluding Fridays, and the monument is closed every Friday of the year. So, early morning is an ideal time to visit since there are fewer crowds. In addition, you can take as many photos as you like as there aren’t many people who will photograph your image.

The crowd begins to gather at 9 AM, and you should not undervalue the sheer size of the tourists. Many people are waiting to sit on the Diana bench to get that unforgettable photograph with the Taj in the background.

Simply put, avoid all the hassles and arrive at the gates of the Taj Mahal at 5.30 AM. Arrive at 6 AM and enjoy The Taj’s beauty at your pace.

Tips: Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the days with the least number of visitors. You might want to choose Tuesday or Wednesday if you intend to have the fewest people with you.

2. To be able to appreciate the Taj Mahal’s beauty, the Taj Mahal

The first sun’s rays slowly fall through the sky. The Taj Mahal glows like a gold-colored artifact close to the Yamuna River. The temperatures are superb, and it is possible to hear birds chirping while enjoying this moment.

It isn’t easy to imagine that the marble believed to be milky white are adorned with this golden shine at this time of the day. As you walk toward the east side of the Taj complex, the rising sun shines down on the Taj mausoleum. The monument is stunning.

As the sun begins to rise over your head, as time passes as the sun rises, you start to see the pure white shade from the marble.

It is suggested to purchase tickets online before arriving at the venue. In addition, by purchasing an electronic ticket, you will save yourself the hassle of waiting in long lines to buy tickets.

3. Click Many Pictures from many views

The Taj Mahal is a photographer’s desire since this magnificent structure is filled with beauty. Here are a few suggestions to keep in mind for capturing stunning Taj photos.

• From the main gate, called the Darwaza-i-Rauza
• Once you have walked across the Darwaza-i-Rauza
• Diana Bench
• Take the Taj Mahal image from the eastern part of the picture.
• Take a Taj Mahal image from the west side.
• Take Taj Mahal image of Taj Mahal Mehtab Bagh garden
• Take a Taj Mahal photograph in full moonlight
• From the Agra Fort

Tips: If you want to see Tajmahal at sunrise, consider staying overnight in the city of Agra so that your energy is fully available to experience its beauty.

Same Day Taj Mahal Agra Tour by Car

Taj Mahal Entry Gate Sunrise Opening Hours

Taj Mahal opens its doors at Taj Mahal, unlocks its door 30 minutes before sunrise, and closes 30 minutes before sunset, most typically between 5:30 AM and 7 PM every day, except Friday (when it’s closed on Fridays).

The Taj Mahal is also accessible to be viewed at night every full moon, from 8:30 PM until 12:30 AM. It is also open two days before and after when the moon is full (a total of five days). The night watch is not open during Ramadan each year.

Read also: Best December Destinations in Uttar Pradesh

Taj Mahal Entry Fees and Information

For foreigners, The cost for tickets is Rs.1100, while for locals, the price is just Rs.50. Children under 15 years old are free of charge.

Tickets are available at ticket booths near the gates or on. Note that access to the monument can no longer be bought in Agra Fort or any other locations and are only a minimal discount if you want to visit other sites on the same day.

Tickets for night-time viewing are priced at Rs.750 for foreigners and Rs.510 for residents for 30 minutes. Children between the ages of 3 and 15 must pay 500 rupees.

The tickets must be purchased between 10 AM and 6 PM on the same day before, at an office at the Archeological Survey of India on Mall Road.

The use of vehicles is not allowed within a 500m radius of the monument due to the pollution. The memorial has three gates to enter: the South gate, the East gate, and the West gate.

• The West Gate is the leading gate that tourists from the area go through. It is also the one with the most extended lines throughout the day.
• Tourists from abroad often use the East gate since it is closer to many well-known hotels.
• It’s the South Gate is the least-utilized gate. It is located near a bustling market, where several inexpensive hotels are situated.

There are ticket counters that are exclusively for foreigners on both the West gates as well as at the East gates.

Same Day Agra Tour Package by Train

Detailed Entry fee of the Taj Mahal and Nearby Monuments:

Where is the Taj Mahal located?

It is located in Agra, the capital city. Agra is situated in Uttar Pradesh in the north of India and is located in the north of India, and the Taj Mahal is approximately 222 kilometers away from New Delhi.

Some expressways have been designated, and transportation systems are in place to facilitate an easy journey. It takes 3 and 4 hours via train or on the road to get to Agra From New Delhi.

Best time to go to the Taj Mahal 

Winter is the perfect season to go and visit The Taj Mahal from October to March. It’s likely to be cold, but you’re not subject to the heat that can be scorching in summer.

Going to the Taj Mahal during summer is probably not an excellent idea. Taj Mahal during summer (April to August) due to the uncontrollable heat. If you have no choice but to travel to India during summer, the sunrise tour at the Taj Mahal is custom-made.

Another downside to traveling to the Taj in summer is that Indian schools are closed from March through May, which means you can expect to see more tremendous crowds.

Check more details: Best Time of Year to Visit Taj Mahal

Witness the Taj Mahal Without Going Inside

If you’re not keen to pay the expensive entrance fee or get caught in the crowds, you could enjoy a stunning view of the Taj above the river’s banks which is perfect for the evening.

One such location is Mehtab Bagh, a 25-acre park directly in front of the mausoleum. The entrance fee is equivalent to Rs.250 for foreigners and residents, and the park is open until dusk.

There’s also a less-known abandoned watchtower in an area of land to the east of the monument. It’s the perfect spot for a fantastic sunset view from the Taj. You must pay Rs50 free to get in.

1 Night 2 Days Agra Tour Itinerary

Tips to see Sunrise at the Taj Mahal

• Start early, and the first bird gets the early worm! We arrived at the ticket office at about 5 AM. We were among the first to check into.
• A water bottle and shoe covers are included in the cost of your tickets. Do not bring anything other than to bring your cameras. Smoking cigarettes, lighters, and many other things aren’t permitted. Bring only the essentials along.
• We were told that there were different queues for locals of male foreigners, male locals, and female foreigners. There were a few people in the line, meaning there were just two queues for foreigners and locals. We assume that the volume of people in the queues and people waiting for a ride will increase as the day progresses.
• Drones are prohibited (thankfully). The government’s official site includes restricted items: firearms, ammunition and fire, smoking products, cigarettes, liquor, tobacco and eatables (Toffees) and knives, headphones, wire, mobile chargers, electronic products (except cameras), and tripods.
• Photographs are not allowed in the mausoleum’s central area.
• The local restaurants outside West Gate are very affordable when you search for breakfast options before watching the sunrise over the Taj Mahal!
• The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays.

Our Sunrise Taj Mahal Tour Itinerary Including Agra Fort

04:50 AM Wake up

05:10 AM The driver will meet you at 05:10 at your hotel’s lobby or a pre-decided address in Agra, along with the driver and vehicle.

5:30 AM Early in the morning, we begin our journey with a visit to the “Taj Mahal”, one of the latest wonders of the World, and it’s often referred to as a paradise on earth.

07:10 AM After having a visit to the Taj Mahal in the morning, we head back to the hotel for breakfast.

10:00 10:15 AM Agra Fort. After that, if you are interested in visiting Agra Fort, another world heritage site listed by UNESCO. We can do it, too. Agra Fort is one of the most stunning forts in India, constructed by King Akbar, followed by a marble-inlaid demonstration of the local art and culture of Agra from the same family that created the Taj Mahal. Taj Mahal.

12:30 PM Lunch at a restaurant outside at a local restaurant that you pay for.

02:00 PM Return to the hotel or a pre-decided address.

More about Agra:

• Agra’s Most Famous Tourist Places
• Things to Buy & Market in Agra
• How to Travel from Delhi to Agra?
• Nearby Agra Places for Weekend Getaways
• How to Reach Agra from Delhi
• Top 10 Famous Things to Do in Agra
• 10 Reasons Why You Need to Visit Agra
• Agra Famous Historical Places to See
• One-Day Agra Tour from Delhi
• Places to See Near Agra within 100 km

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What is the best time to visit the Taj Mahal?

The best time to visit the Taj Mahal is early in the morning at sunrise or late in the afternoon at sunset to avoid crowds and enjoy the beautiful lighting.

2. Why is sunrise a good time to visit the Taj Mahal?

Sunrise is a great time to visit the Taj Mahal because the soft morning light enhances the beauty of the monument, and there are fewer visitors, making for a more peaceful experience.

3. What are the opening hours of the Taj Mahal?

The Taj Mahal opens 30 minutes before sunrise and closes 30 minutes before sunset, except on Fridays when it is closed for prayers.

4. What is the best time of year to visit the Taj Mahal for photography?

The best time of year for photography at the Taj Mahal is from October to March when the weather is cooler and clearer.

5. Which gate should I use to enter the Taj Mahal for sunrise?

The East Gate is recommended for sunrise visits as it is less crowded and opens earlier than the West and South Gates.

6. How can I book tickets for a sunrise tour of the Taj Mahal?

Tickets for a sunrise tour of the Taj Mahal can be booked online through the official ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) website or purchased at the ticket counters near the entrance gates.

7. What time does the sunrise tour of the Taj Mahal start?

The sunrise tour of the Taj Mahal starts around 30 minutes before the actual sunrise time, so it is best to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.

8. Is the Taj Mahal more beautiful at sunrise or sunset?

Both sunrise and sunset offer stunning views of the Taj Mahal. Sunrise provides a serene and less crowded experience, while sunset offers warm, golden hues.

9. What is the best location to view the sunrise at the Taj Mahal?

The best location to view the sunrise is from the main entrance or the platform in front of the Taj Mahal, where you can capture the reflection of the monument in the water.

10. Are there any specific photography tips for capturing the Taj Mahal at sunrise?

For the best photos, use a tripod for stability, arrive early to avoid crowds, and experiment with different angles to capture the reflection in the pools and the changing colors of the sky.

11. What should I wear when visiting the Taj Mahal at sunrise?

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as you may need to walk and wait. It can be cool in the early morning, so consider bringing a light jacket or shawl.

12. Is it allowed to bring cameras and tripods to the Taj Mahal?

Yes, cameras and tripods are allowed at the Taj Mahal. However, drones are not permitted, and certain items like large bags and food are restricted.

13. Can I see the Taj Mahal from a boat during sunrise?

Yes, you can take a boat ride on the Yamuna River behind the Taj Mahal for a unique sunrise view. Local boatmen offer these rides, providing a different perspective of the monument.

14. Are there any special rules for visiting the Taj Mahal at sunrise?

Standard rules apply, such as no littering, no touching of the walls, and no photography inside the main mausoleum. Respect the monument and other visitors to ensure a pleasant experience for all.

15. What is the nearest airport to the Taj Mahal for a sunrise visit?

The nearest airport to the Taj Mahal is Agra’s Kheria Airport, about 13 kilometers away. Alternatively, Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi is approximately a 3-4 hour drive from Agra.