Taj Mahal Moonlight Viewing

Overview

The Taj Mahal Moonlight Viewing is a limited-access nighttime experience offered during the five nights around each full moon. Visitors can observe the Taj Mahal bathed in moonlight — the white marble seeming to glow from within.

Highlights

• Lunar Illumination: The Makrana marble absorbs and reflects moonlight, creating an ethereal bluish glow.
• Intimate Atmosphere: Maximum 400 visitors per night in timed batches of 50, offering rare tranquillity.
• Unique Perspective: The absence of artificial lighting transforms the monument entirely.

History

The Archaeological Survey of India introduced moonlight viewings in 2004 to allow visitors to experience the Taj as the Mughals did — by lamp and moonlight. Entry is from the Shilpgram complex, not the regular gates.

Visitor Tips

• Tickets: Must be purchased at least one day in advance from the ASI office or online; limited availability.
• No Cameras: Phones allowed but cameras, tripods, and flash are prohibited.
• Duration: Each viewing slot is 30 minutes.