There are three seasons in Agra, home to the Taj Mahal: the hot season (April to June), the rainy season (July to September), and the (mild) dry season (October to March).
October to March is the best time period to visit the Taj Mahal weather-wise, when temperatures average from 15 to 27°C (59–81°F). It perfectly avoids the rains and summer heat, and allows you to fully immerse yourself in a dreamy visit.
March, October, and November are ideal for photography, with cool weather, clear skies, and fewer crowds (in contrast to December to February's colder, foggier, and busier months).
If you seek a time with the fewest tourist numbers, visit the Taj Mahal from April to September (in the low season), and avoid weekends and public holidays.
During the day, sunrise is undoubtedly the best time for the most favorable lighting, low crowding, and avoidance of extreme heat.
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Great Experience
WOW! I’ve traveled Asia some & I must say Sharon & Asia Highlights made this trip so much more enjoyable and easy More
Stephen Hollis,
Aug 2023
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Alisa has has been great to work with
Alisa with Asia Highlights has has been great to work with. Very friendly and responsive. More
Ana Rausch,
Aug 2023
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Using Sharon right now to book our…
Using Sharon right now to book our upcoming trip to Thailand. She has booked everything that we asked for. Has answered all of my inquiries, which has been many! Looking forward to having a great girls trip in Thailand More
Tracy,
Aug 2023
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Thailand, Singapore, Bali
In Thailand, Tanny and Nori(Suparp), were both incredible! They were both fun, funny, and full of knowledge and made sure we got the full experience. They went the extra mile and always made sure we had cold bottled water and towels to cleanse our hands. In Singapore, Nicole was an absolute gem. She was so kind and knowledgeable and guided us in the right direction to make our day as enjoyable as possible. She helped us choose a top notch local lunch and coffee spot in China Town and taught us so much about the country! In Bali, Emon was an absolute joy. He was very knowledgeable and kind and absolutely made sure we were feeling comfortable and was willing to be flexible with us. He was fun to converse with and made our time traveling between destinations so enjoyable! I cannot recommend Asia Highlights enough! Accommodations, travel arrangements and guided tours were all a breeze. More
Cassi Thunker,
Jul 2023
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Very supportive
Very supportive ! I have received eticket for Sky Lattern Festival very fast More
Chi?n Nguy?n Ng?c,
Jul 2023
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My experience in Chang Mai with Asia Highlights
I greatly enjoyed my experience with Asia Highlights for a trip I booked to Thailand.All of my interests were catered too. My guide in Chang Mai Gemma was excellent.I truly felt the soul of Thailand culture and Buddhism. More
Richard,
Jul 2023
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A pleasure to plan with
Well, this has been a painless and pleasurable process to find such a wonderful company. I had specific dates and places to be and Sharon worked with me diligently to refine the schedule and costs to suit my travel needs and budget. She informed me of a special tour on the dates I am to be in Thailand and I added that to my previous plans. More
Chris Williams,
Jul 2023
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Large multi-generational holiday in Thailand
The holiday was wonderful. Our guides, Mr Monchai (Bangkok), and Ms Tipagorn (Tippy) (Chiang Mai) were exceptional. Travelling in a large multigenerational group with many children requires patience and our guides truly understood that. Mr Monchai and Ms Tippy shared their extensive knowledge of the many wonderful places we visited, and were flexible to take us to additional places along the way based on discussions. While everyday was busy, having them greet us with patience and a smile truly made this a memorable holiday. The hotels we stayed at were equally wonderful and went above and beyond to celebrate not only my parents 50th anniversary but also celebrate 2 milestone birthdays that occurred. We will cherish this holiday for many years to come. We hope to use Asia Highlights again. More
CL,
Jul 2023
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I never used a travel agent in my life
I never used a travel agent in my life, but Sharon for Asia Highlights did a phenomenal job helping planning and coordination a family vacation. The best part of working with Sharon was that she maintained an open line of communication and provided answers to my question well within 12-24 hours. Additionally, Sharon was flexible and customized our vacation to my families needs. Overall great experience. More
Antione Barry,
Jul 2023
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Great company to plan a trip to Southeast Asia!
Sharon Haung has been wonderful to work with! Very patient and accommodating. Responds immediately given time change and is prepared, prompt, and professional. More
Debi Hinerfeld,
Jul 2023
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We took a 15 days trip (10 days Vietnam and 5 days Thailand …
It was an amazing experience the guides and drivers were there awaiting for us at each airoport for a transfer to the hotels also on time for all the tours all the guides were so lovely , very experienced and spoke very good English , one of the days on tour in Thailand I lost my phone in a temple in Bangkok mr chai went out of his way in a middle of thousands of visitors and managed to find an bring it back to me I found that amazing , also while on a trip I contacted Jason li out tour organizer few time via whatup and he replied and helped on the spot I recommend asiahilights 150% The quality of the service hotels the guides the drivers outstanding From start to finish ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT ???? More
SIMO el ghobar,
Jun 2023
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Wonderful Guides and Experience
Our large group arrived in Bangkok with Tanni as our guide. She was wonderful! An absolute joy to spend time with. She is knowledgeable, kind, and extremely funny. I don’t know what we would have done without her! After Bangkok, we traveled to Chang Mai, where Indy was our tour guide. She was a delight! She is kind, knowledgeable, and so patient. Our trip to Thailand was an adventure of a lifetime and these two women helped make it memorable. I would definitely use Asia Highlights for any future travel in Asia. More
Jessica Bennett,
Jun 2023
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Guide - Chai
We travelled from Vietnam to Bangkok and were blessed to have a guide named Chai. He was a superb guide and it is a pity we couldn't bottle him and take him home. He was very knowledgeable and an absolute gentleman. He could not have done enough to facilitate us and imparted so much knowledge about the Temples, Buddism and the History of Thailand in general. Not only did he give us a great overview of the past and current ways of living in Thailand but I also feel I came away a much better person having interacting with him. I will carry many of his teachings with me for the rest of my life and know that having met him was a very special blessing in my life. More
Customer,
Jun 2023
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Our guide Tanni was kind
Our guide Tanni was kind, knowledgeable, funny and beyond accommodating for our group. We felt like we'd made a friend and it enhanced our trip in the most positive way. Everything was coordinated perfectly which is not easy to do in a large traveling group. Excellent experience! More
Marissa Manson,
Jun 2023
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We are only on day 5 of our 15 day trip…
Our first stop so far was in Hanoi where our guide Trong was just so awesome! He shared about his culture and family life which showing us sites through a city tour. He was so funny making lots of jokes and always made sure we were having fun while learning about everything! He checked on us frequently even when we were no longer with him since we then went on a cruise in Halong Bay! Halong Bay and the cruise on Paradise Elegance went way above anything I expected. The scenery was breathtaking, the ship was so beautiful and clean with such fresh, good food! And I can’t sing enough praise for the staff who took care of us- especially Anna and Belle! They went above and beyond to make sure we enjoyed every aspect from eating meals with Anna to every other detail with Belle! I highly recommend Asian Highlights to help plan these extraordinary trips! This already has been a trip of a lifetime and we still have so much more to see all thanks to Cathy!! More
Diane Creitz,
Jun 2023
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Tanni for the win!
14 of my closest friends and family descended upon Bangkok ready to see the town. Asia highlights and Tanni took us on a tour that changed our lives. We experienced so much everyday. Tanni was amazing! She did all the thinking for us, so we all could just be present and enjoy the moment. I can’t recommend this company, and especially Tanni enough. More
Megan McGlynn,
Jun 2023
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This isn't my first trip with Asia…
This isn't my first trip with Asia Highlights. They are great at helping me plan, working my requests into the itinerary, and booking it all. We travel with friends and just got back from a trip to Thailand and Vietnam. Albee did a great job with all the details and we had a wonderful time. We will use them for our next adventure! More
Katie Potesta,
Jun 2023
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Amazing service
Although we have not been our trip yet I wanted to still write a review based on customer service and the ease of booking. Alisa has been extremely prompt and responsive with planning our trip to Thailand. She has had great recommendations and guidance to add to our custom itinerary. Highly recommend using Asia highlights! -Alex More
Alex,
May 2023
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I have never hear of this company…
I have never hear of this company before , and after reading all these reviews ,I decided to give it a try . The professionalism and communicative skill received by one of the agent , Sharon of Asia Highlights , convince me that She was the right travel agent for my trip in Asia . Very quickly she communicated with me and got all the detail of my desire vacation . Sharon made me a great itinerary with great experiences that I am dreaming to experience and I am looking forward to it . Thanks Sharon for been so great and crafting me a dream vacation with great suggestions. More
orge alvarez,
May 2023
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Coco Yang worked tirelessly to…
From the moment I landed in Bangkok, Ms Noi Ying was there to welcome me and get me settled into my hotel. We enjoyed several days together touring Bangkok and Kanchanaburi. In Chiang Mai, Mr Ekachai took my son snd I on an amazing trip to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and to visit a community Lanna home, gardens and a hands-on cooking class preparing an authentic Thai meal. Lisa arranged a last-minute speedboat tour of 5 breathtaking islands in Phuket. From start to finish, the guides exceeded my expectations!! Thank you, Asia Highlight!! Debbie Woods More
Debbie Woods,
May 2023
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Quick Facts on Visiting the Taj Mahal
- The Taj Mahal opens from sunrise (around 6 a.m.) to sunset (around 6:30 p.m.) every day except Fridays. The opening hours may change seasonally, so double check with us before going.
- You're suggested to stay at least 3 hours to take plenty of awesome photos and admire its beauty leisurely.
- There are three gates in the Taj Mahal: the Western Gate, Eastern Gate, and Southern Gate. Entry is not allowed at the Southern Gate.
- From the parking lot of the Taj Mahal, you would get to a gateway by a battery-powered golf cart.
- Children below the age of 15 years enjoy free entry to the Taj Mahal.
Tips for Visiting the Taj Mahal in Different Seasons
Visiting Taj Mahal in the Hot Season (April to June)
If you can put up with the extreme heat around 40°C (106°F), the rewards will include appreciating the Taj at lowest visitor numbers and prices.
1. Visiting at sunrise:
You can choose a heritage hotel near the Taj for more convenient visit and visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise to avoid the daytime heat.
2. What to Pack:
Bring sunglasses, sun cream, and a hat to protect you from the strong sunlight. Fast-drying T-shirts are more comfortable for the hot days.
Visiting the Taj Mahal in the Rainy Season (July to September)

Daily top temperatures drop to around 34°C (93°F) thanks to the monsoon rains. The Taj Mahal receives its heaviest rainfall in July and August and the monsoon rains end in September.
Visiting in rainy season, you're likely to have the Taj yourself. When it rains during your visit, you might see the magical Taj Mahal with rain and sun at the same time, or you could choose to spend more time inside the Taj.
1. Check the weather forecast:
The rainfall rarely lasts for more than 2 or 3 days at a time. You can check the forecast for the predicted rainfall timings one day before, so that you can plan to avoid the rainfall as much as possible.
2. Have a flexible itinerary:
If you're willing to brave the high rainfall months, you should have a flexible itinerary to make the most of gaps between cloudbursts for outdoor activities.
3. What to Pack:
Pack sun protection and waterproofs, as there may be no way to get around visiting the Taj when it is raining if it rains solidly for the 3 days of your visit.
Visiting the Taj Mahal in the Dry Season (October to March)

The most pleasant weather usually brings the biggest crowds.
1. Make reservations at least 3 months in advance:
If you're planning to visit during this period, booking at least 3 months before is necessary to guarantee rooms, tickets and guides will be available. Contact us to enjoy worry-free booking: You enjoy 100% refund of any payments made to China Highlights prior to 3 weeks before departure (detail⇒). Check India tours for inspiration >>>
2. Visiting at Sunrise:
During your visit, you're suggested to visit the Taj at sunrise before most tourists flood in.
When foggy days come in December and January, you'd better visit after 10 a.m. for better photos.
3. What to pack:
A dress or a t-shirt with shorts are good options to wear during the day. In the evenings, jackets, coats, and sweaters are needed, particularly in India's winter (Dec.–Feb.).
If you want any further weather info, check its monthly weather. Taj Mahal is the top highlight in Agra. For more extensions, you can see sample itineraries of agra tour.
Best Times to Visit the Taj Mahal to Avoid Crowds
1. Visit in Low Season
During the low travel season (April to September), you're expected to meet the smallest crowds and benefit from big promotions (30–50% off) from hotels and airlines. The only drawback is the unpleasant heat from April to June and the high rainfall from July to September.
2. Visit on Weekdays and Avoid Holidays
Apart from visiting in the low travel season, avoiding public holidays and weekends is useful to beat the crowds. Diwali, Holi, Eid, and Christmas always make the Taj Mahal busier than usual. Check out the exact dates of India Holidays in 2022/2023.
3. Visit in Early Morning
If travelling in high season, you're suggested to visit the Taj at sunrise (around 5:30 a.m.) for less crowding.
Also, pre-book your tickets to avoid waiting around. And an experienced guide would help you get your tickets quickly, enter the marvelous Taj smoothly, and suggest the best spots to visit with less crowding. We can help with this. Contact us.
Best Times of Day to Visit the Taj Mahal: Sunrise, Sunset

Shutterbugs are always big on sunrises and sunsets. Skies are full of colors during these periods. They benefit from the soft light and vibrant sky changes. At the Taj Mahal, sunrise is better than sunset, as there are less visitors.
At sunrise, you could appreciate the dramatic color changes on the marbles of the Taj and get incredible photos. The earlier you get your tickets, the more likely you are to have the Taj Mahal to yourself, especially during the off season (April to June).
Sunset is another good time to see the picturesque Taj, but you would have to endure the crowds close to the Taj. If you don't want to miss sunrise and sunset with the Taj, we suggest you head to the Mehtab Bagh for a distant sunset view in relative peace upon your arrival, and then have an up-close view of the Taj the next early morning.
The Taj Mahal on Full Moon Nights: Not Advised
The Taj Mahal is typically open for 5 nights a month during the full moon phase. However, a moonlight visit is not suitable for a photography tour, because video cameras are not allowed inside the monument during this time.
As per most reviews, a night visit is not as enjoyable or worth the money. Paying 1.5 times the daytime price, you just get 30 minutes to see the shadowy Taj from the gateway (quite a long distance away).
If you would like a night view (that is just as good), booking a hotel with Taj Mahal views or going to the Mehtab Bagh is much better value. For more details, see The Taj Mahal at Night: Full Moon Night Visits, Places for Night Views
Read more on How to Plan a Trip to India (Expert Advice) or tell us your interests, and we'd be glad to find the perfect timings and activities for you. India Private Tour Packages for inspiration >>>
Why Travel with Asia Highlights (98.8% positive customer reviews among 10,000+)
- Unique experiences tailored to your interests: Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.
- Hassle-free travel and peace of mind: Every aspect of your trip will be carefully planned and organized by your 1:1 travel consultant.
- Experienced and knowledgeable guides: Your guides will be local and love to work for travelers' smiles.
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