According to the order issued by the ASI, the timings for free entry to the Taj Mahal have been set differently for all three days: January 15th, 16th, and 17th. On January 15th, Thursday, entry will be free from 2 PM until sunset.

If you are planning a trip to the Taj Mahal in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, there's good news for you. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has decided to offer free entry to the Taj Mahal on the occasion of the three-day annual Urs of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Under this initiative, on January 15th, 16th, and 17th, visitors will be able to see the Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world, without a ticket during the specified times. The ASI has also issued an official order in this regard.

When can people visit the Taj Mahal for free?

According to the order issued by the ASI, the timings for free entry to the Taj Mahal have been set differently for all three days: January 15th, 16th, and 17th. On January 15th, Thursday, entry will be free from 2 PM until sunset. Similarly, on January 16th, Friday, people can visit the Taj Mahal for free from 2 PM until sunset. Additionally, on January 17th, Saturday, entry to the Taj Mahal will be free from sunrise to sunset, i.e., for the entire day.

Taj Mahal ticket counters will be closed

According to the information released by the ASI, all ticket counters at the Taj Mahal will remain completely closed during the specified times of the Urs. Tourists will not need to purchase tickets either online or offline. Direct entry will be permitted during the designated times. Considering the expected crowds, the ASI and local police have made robust arrangements for security and crowd management.

Tourism will receive a boost

Every year, a large number of pilgrims and tourists from India and abroad arrive in Agra on the occasion of Shah Jahan's Urs. During this time, traditional rituals are performed in the Taj Mahal complex, and a multi-colored sheet is offered at the main tomb. The free entry at this time will not only provide relief to tourists, but is also expected to benefit hotels, guides, transportation, and other local tourism businesses.

The Taj Mahal is a symbol of the love between Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal.

The Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Its foundation was laid in 1632.  Later, the Taj Mahal became a symbol of love, beauty, and Mughal architecture. Today, this monument is also included in the UNESCO World Heritage list.