If you have the desire to marvel at the Taj Mahal, the iconic symbol of love, with your family or partner, then pack your bags because Agra has exciting news that will lift your spirits. Usually, visiting the Taj Mahal involves long lines and escalating ticket costs, but now you have an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of this white marble wonder without spending a penny.
To commemorate the annual Urs of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has waived the entry fee to the Taj Mahal for three days. This means you won't need to bother with online bookings or crowded ticket counters. Let's explore the ideal times for you to visit the Taj Mahal during this special occasion and when the ticket counters will be closed.
When You Can Enter for Free Without a Ticket
The free entry to the Taj Mahal is due to the annual three-day Urs of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, celebrated this year from January 15 to 17. Visitors are welcomed without a ticket during these three days, but note that the free entry times vary each day. On January 15 and 16, you can enter from 2:00 PM until sunset, but if you want a more leisurely exploration of the entire complex, January 17 is perfect for you since the doors remain open for free entry from sunrise until sunset.
No need for online booking or queuing at a counter; you can walk right in. During the Urs, many traditional rites are performed within the Taj Mahal, offering a unique experience. A vibrant rainbow-hued sheet is placed atop the main mausoleum, and qawwalis echo through the halls, drawing visitors from around the globe. This is the only time of year when visitors can closely explore the otherwise restricted areas of the tomb and its subterranean cells.
Safety and the Extraordinary Tourist Surge
When the offer of free entry to the Taj Mahal arrives, it's natural for tourists to flock to Agra in droves. To manage this influx, the ASI and local police have implemented stringent security measures to ensure a pleasant visit. Security personnel will be stationed at every corner, adhering to strict safety protocols. Administration has issued special directives to control the crowd, ensuring the monument's dignity and security remain intact. With the ticket counters closed, visitors save time and enjoy a hassle-free experience.
If you wish to take advantage of the special free entry during Shah Jahan's Urs, be mindful of your schedule and timing. Stepping into the Taj Mahal's precincts during the chilly January mornings and tranquil afternoons is not just about admiring an architectural masterpiece but is an opportunity to glimpse into history's pages and feel the timeless depth of love embedded in this site's very air.
