Yes, the Taj Mahal is closed every Friday for general visitors. This rule often surprises tourists, especially those planning a tight itinerary from Delhi or a same-day Agra tour. Understanding why the Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays and what you can do instead will help you plan your visit smoothly and avoid disappointment.
This guide explains the reason behind the Friday closure, what’s allowed on Fridays, and how to plan your Agra trip better.
Is the Taj Mahal Closed on Friday?
✅ Yes. The Taj Mahal remains closed every Friday for regular sightseeing.
This rule applies to:
- Indian tourists
- Foreign tourists
- Same-day tour visitors
- Group tours and private tours
If you arrive on a Friday expecting to enter the Taj Mahal, entry will not be allowed.
Why Is the Taj Mahal Closed on Friday?
The main reason is religious observance.
The Taj Mahal complex includes a mosque on the western side, which is still an active place of worship. Fridays are an important day for Muslims because of Jumma (Friday) prayers.
Key reasons for Friday closure:
- The mosque inside the Taj Mahal complex is used for weekly Friday prayers
- To maintain religious sanctity and security
- To manage large prayer gatherings safely
- To preserve the monument during high-footfall religious activity
Because of this, the Taj Mahal is closed to the public every Friday, except for worshippers attending prayers.
Is Anyone Allowed Inside the Taj Mahal on Friday?
🔹 Yes, but only for prayers.
On Fridays:
- Only Muslim worshippers are allowed to enter
- Entry is allowed only for prayer time
- General tourists are not permitted to visit or sightsee
There is no sightseeing access, photography, or guided tours allowed on Fridays.
What About Taj Mahal Night Viewing on Friday?
❌ Night viewing is NOT available on Fridays.
Night viewing of the Taj Mahal is usually allowed on selected days around the full moon, but Friday is excluded, even if it falls during a full moon period.
What If Friday Is the Only Day You’re in Agra?
If your travel plan includes Agra on a Friday, don’t worry—you still have good options.
Things You Can Do in Agra on Friday:
- Visit Agra Fort (open all days)
- Visit Mehtab Bagh (best Taj view from outside)
- Explore local markets
- Try Agra street food and sweets
- Plan Taj Mahal visit for Saturday morning
Many tourists stay overnight in Agra and visit the Taj Mahal early Saturday morning for the best experience.
Best Days to Visit the Taj Mahal
✅ Best Days:
- Monday to Thursday
- Saturday and Sunday (more crowded, but open)
❌ Avoid:
- Friday (closed)
- Peak holiday mornings if you want fewer crowds
Best Time on Open Days
- Early morning (sunrise) is the best time to visit
- Cooler weather, fewer crowds, better photos
- Especially recommended in peak season (October to March)
Common Tourist Mistakes to Avoid
- Planning a same-day Agra tour on a Friday
- Booking non-refundable tickets without checking the day
- Assuming Friday closure applies only to foreigners (it applies to everyone)
- Confusing mosque prayer access with sightseeing access
Final Answer (Short & Clear)
Yes, the Taj Mahal is closed on Friday because the mosque inside the complex is used for Friday prayers, and the site is reserved only for worshippers on that day. Tourists should plan their visit on any other day of the week, preferably early morning.
FAQS
Yes, the Taj Mahal is closed every Friday for general tourists, including Indian and foreign visitors.
The Taj Mahal complex has an active mosque. Fridays are reserved for Jumma (Friday) prayers, so the monument is closed for sightseeing.
Only Muslim worshippers are allowed to enter the mosque area during prayer time. Sightseeing is not permitted.
No. The Taj Mahal remains closed for the entire day on Friday, including night viewing.
Yes. You can view the Taj Mahal from outside viewpoints like Mehtab Bagh, but entry into the main complex is not allowed.
No. Even during full moon periods, Friday is excluded from Taj Mahal night viewing.
Yes. Agra Fort is open all days, including Friday, and can be visited when the Taj Mahal is closed.
The best days are Monday to Thursday for fewer crowds. Saturday and Sunday are open but usually crowded.
Early morning, especially sunrise, is the best time for fewer crowds and better photos.
You can visit Agra on Friday, but plan the Taj Mahal for Saturday morning and cover Agra Fort or Mehtab Bagh on Friday.
