Two to three hours is plenty of time to see the Taj Mahal. Going early in the morning is your best bet for avoiding crowds, so keep that in mind. If you want to see the Taj Mahal and its surrounding attractions—including Agra Fort, Itmad-ud-daula (Mini Taj), Sikandra (Akber’s mausoleum), and Mehtab Bagh (from where you get a great view of the Taj Mahal in the evening)—you’ll need at least one full day.

The Taj Mahal, the Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri are all recognised by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites.

• Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is the most visited building in India and is often regarded as one of the world’s seven wonders. The Taj Mahal was a labour of love for Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and his queen Mumtaz. The Taj Mahal is like an eardrop on the cheek of eternity, as Tagore put it. Agra’s historical monuments draw the most visitors to India every year.

• Fort of Agra

The Agra Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Lal Qila, Fort Rouge, and the Red Fort of Agra. The Taj Mahal is around 2.5 kilometres to the northwest. Emperor Akbar built Agra’s massive historical site out of red sandstone on the banks of the Yamuna.

• Fatehpur Sikri

Mughal Emperor Akbar’s former capital, Fatehpur Sikri, is almost entirely red sandstone. It has recently been named a popular tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is a beautiful illustration of Akbar’s skill as an architect.

The main attractions in Agra, like the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, may be seen in same day agra tour by car. It is common for visitors to arrive from Delhi and Jaipur in the early afternoon. Consequently, on the day of arrival, they will visit Mehtab Bagh to take in the breathtaking vista of the Taj Mahal at dusk.

The airport is accessible via plane. Thus, that option is available. The cab will then take you directly to your accommodation.

In the winter, from November to February, the Taj Mahal will be obscured by fog and should be avoided at all costs. If you want to see the monument at its best, go in the early summer, between March and June. In addition, Monday through Thursday are the top days to visit.

The Taj Mahal is accessible daily from sunrise to sunset (except on Fridays). However, the best time to visit is early morning.

Indian citizens pay INR 50, non-resident Indians (NRIs) pay INR 1100, and visitors from SAARC and BIMSTEC countries pay INR 535 to enter the Taj Mahal. A visit to the mausoleum inside the Taj Mahal will save you an extra 200 Indian Rupees.

The Taj Mahal is best seen in the morning, as recommended. You can avoid the midday sun and its oppressive heat without sacrificing pleasant illumination and a diminished chance of encountering other people (that starts around 9 a.m.). Get there early for the ticket counter.

Each Taj Mahal’s entrance features a ticket booth and a cloakroom and book same day taj mahal tour by car.

The Taj Mahal, the Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, and many other historical and architectural marvels are all within easy travel distance. For lunch, you may also have some delicious Mughal food.