Everything Muslim Travelers Need to Know Before Visiting Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is a dream destination for many travelers, including Muslims. This stunning white marble mausoleum, located in Agra, India, was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Its Islamic architectural influence, intricate designs, and spiritual significance have made it one of the most iconic structures in India and the world.

If you're a Muslim planning to visit the Taj Mahal, here's everything you need to know about its religious significance, timings, and special tours.

Taj Mahal Tips: A Muslim Traveler's Ultimate Guide!

1. The Taj Mahal's Islamic significance

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The Taj Mahal is more than just a symbol of love; it's a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. It is adorned with numerous Quranic inscriptions, many of which, like Surah Yasin, are recited during funerals. These inscriptions generally focus on themes of judgment, reward, and entry into paradise for the faithful.

At the main gate, visitors are greeted by the inscription: "O soul, you are at rest. Return to the Lord in peace with Him, and He at peace with you."

On certain days, you can even visit the mausoleum of Mumtaz Mahal (for an additional fee of 3 SGD/200 INR). Inside the mausoleum, descriptions of paradise are found on several walls and Mumtaz’s tomb itself features inscriptions of the 99 names of Allah. The most popular inscription is on the cenotaph of Mumtaz Mahal, where a prayer asks Allah to grant her entry into Paradise, signifying Shah Jahan’s heartfelt plea for divine mercy for his wife.

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The gardens of the Taj Mahal follow a classic "charbagh" layout, symbolizing the Quranic concept of paradise, with four rivers flowing through it. Its perfectly symmetrical design and use of beautiful calligraphy are also directly inspired by Islamic tradition.

For Muslim travelers, visiting the Taj Mahal offers a unique connection to Islamic art, culture, and history.

2. Special days for Muslim visitors

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The mosque inside the complex holds special prayers (Jumu'ah) every Friday, and Muslims are can enter the complex for prayers on this day between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM. If you are a Muslim traveler and wish to attend Friday prayers at the Taj Mahal mosque, you can do so for free.

The general public is not allowed to enter the main Taj Mahal complex on this day unless they're attending the prayers.

3. Night viewing of the Taj Mahal

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While the Taj Mahal is famous for its daytime beauty, the monument takes on a magical glow under the moonlight. Night viewings of the Taj Mahal are allowed on five specific nights every month: the full moon night, two nights before it, and two nights after it. You must check the availability of night tours in advance, since it is limited to 8 batches of 50 people at most and tickets sell out fast. Visit Taj Mahal Tourism website to book your tickets. It is important to note that you must book your tickets 7 days in advance. Night viewings are not available during the month of Ramadan.

Price:

Indian citizen: INR 500 (8 SGD)

Foreign citizen: INR 750 (11 SGD)

Children (3-15): INR 500 (8 SGD)

4. Praying at the Taj Mahal mosque

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The mosque inside the Taj Mahal complex, situated to the west of the mausoleum, is a fully functional mosque where Muslim visitors can offer their prayers. The mosque has three stunning domes and is made of red sandstone, contrasting with the white marble of the main building.

Muslim travelers can also visit the mosque during Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha (when tourists cannot visit the Taj Mahal) to perform prayers along with the local Muslims of Agra.

5. Other tips for Muslim travelers

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Dress code: When visiting the Taj Mahal, especially for prayers, obviously a modest dress is recommended. Men and women both must dress modestly to visit the mosque.

Halal food nearby: Agra has a significant Muslim population, so finding halal food around the Taj Mahal isn’t difficult. There are plenty of halal restaurants and food stalls serving Mughlai cuisine, biryanis, kebabs, and more.

Nearby mosques: Besides the mosque inside the Taj Mahal, you can also visit the Jama Masjid in Agra, a 17th-century mosque located near the Agra Fort built by Jahanara Begum, the daughter of Shah Jahan, for a deeper connection with the city's Islamic heritage. This is also a nice option if you feel that the Taj Mahal mosque is a tad too crowded.

6. Ticketing and timings

General timings: The Taj Mahal (for sightseeing purposes) is open every day except Fridays, from sunrise to sunset. However, Muslim visitors can enter the complex on Fridays for Jumu'ah prayers.

Ticket prices: Muslim visitors, like everyone else, must purchase a ticket for entry on regular days (except for Fridays if attending Jumu'ah). Prices differ for Indian nationals and foreign tourists. If you don’t want to wait in line, visit the official Taj Mahal website to book your tickets online.

Foreign tourists: INR 1,100 (17 SGD)

SAARC/BIMSTEC countries: INR 540 (8 SGD)

Children below 15 years (any nationality): Free entry

Conclusion

Visiting the Taj Mahal as a Muslim traveler offers a deep cultural and spiritual experience. With its Islamic architecture, functioning mosque, and the opportunity to pray at this world-famous monument, the Taj Mahal is truly an enriching destination. Whether you're attending Friday prayers or marveling at the intricate Quranic inscriptions, the Taj Mahal is sure to leave a lasting impression.

So, when you plan your trip to the Taj Mahal, don’t forget to mark your Fridays, book your tickets, and get ready to soak in the spiritual and architectural beauty of this 'Monument of Love'!