Taj Mahotsav is a terrific event that takes you down memory lane and reintroduces the present generation to the royal era of the past. From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, India is a country that boasts about its diverse culture. Taj Mahotsav brings all these traditions, cultures, and an eclectic mix of arts to one platform so that visitors can enjoy seeing them all in one place.
The Taj Mahotsav in 2024 is going to be a grand event that is set against the marvellous backdrop of the Taj Mahal, the symbol of eternal love. You can expect to see star performers, talented local artists, and also celebrities who grace the event with their starry presence!
But why is Taj Mahotsav celebrated in the first place? Where is the event being held and how to buy the tickets?
We will answer all these questions and more. Read on to find out about the most anticipated extravaganza of the year.
Also Read: 10 Amazing Weekend Getaways near Agra for a Cool, Calm, and Refreshing Experience
What is the Taj Mahotsav?
Taj Mahotsav is an annual event that happens very close to Agra in India. This is a beautiful event that started in 1992 and has been running strong ever since. The main purpose of the event is to attract tourists both from within the country and foreign countries. UP tourism department goes out of its way to make the whole occasion seem nothing less than a spectacle. You will see several artists, dramatists, actors, handicraft makers, and musicians displaying their art on a common stage. The authorities see this as a perfect opportunity to introduce India’s art to the world. Seeing how each of the 10 days is entertaining with fun-filled activities, people worldwide flock to Agra to be a part of this grand occasion.
Significance of Taj Mahotsav
Taj Mahotsav is an attempt by the UP government to bring more tourists to the state, especially Agra. The Taj Mahal is one of the most famous monuments in the world and the Taj Mahotsav only increases its glory. However, there is another reason why we celebrate the Taj Mahotsav every year.
The Taj Mahal was built to commemorate Mumtaz Mahal. Her name literally translates to the ‘beloved ornament of the palace’. She was not just a beloved Queen but also the apple of the emperor’s eye. She was the wife of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, who loved her the most among all his wives. She died while giving birth to his 14th child and the emperor was left heartbroken after that. To make sure that future generations also remember his queen, Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal.
The Taj Mahotsav is celebrated to honour the love story of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal. On one side, the event reminisces the journey of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz and on the other side, it also shows the world the beauty of India’s heritage.
Venue of the Festival
Taj Mahotsav is organised in Shilpgram, which is about 500 metres away from the eastern gate of the Taj Mahal. So, even if you are not inside the Taj Mahal, you can see the magnificent structure from the venue of the festival. At night, you can gaze at the spectacular night view of the monument that lights up gorgeously! This is the main attraction that you shouldn’t miss out on. Also, you will see Bollywood celebrities and singers gracing the stage! Renowned artists like Sonu Nigam, Shreya Ghoshal, Kailash Kher, Daler Mahendi, Sunidhi Chauhan, Udit Narayan and Javed Ali were a few artists who attended and performed at the event in the past.
Dates of Taj Mahotsav 2024
In 2024, the annual festival of Taj Mahotsav will be conducted from 18th to 27th February.
You will find several stalls selling local food, beverages, tribal art, handicrafts, music albums, and textiles. The prices are reasonable and you can get your hands on artwork from states like West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Hyderabad, Kashmir, Lucknow, Maharashtra, and the Northeastern states – all in one place!
If you are planning to attend the Taj Mahotsav in 2024, then book your stay at the affordable Hotels in Agra which are much closer to the venue.
The Ticket Cost of Taj Mahotsav 2024
Taj Mahotsav aims to reach as many people as possible. So, the cost of tickets is very low and the number of tickets being sold increases significantly every year. For instance, in 2023, more than five million tickets were sold and almost all of the buyers attended the event. The number is expected to grow in 2024 and the arrangements of the event are being made accordingly.
The ticket cost for Indians is INR 50. For children below the age of 5, the entry is free. Any foreign tourists and visitors from other countries can enter the event without a ticket. All they have to do is show their identification proof, preferably the passports. We suggest that Indians carry their Aadhar cards, just in case the authorities ask for identification proof. Please note that company identity cards and PAN cards are not accepted as proof.
People who want to set up stalls at the event can fill out a form that is available on the official website of the Taj Mahotsav. Artists who want to show their talent on stage can contact the organisers and arrange everything for their performances.
Other Brilliant Places to Visit in Agra
You will witness the Nawabi glory of the Mughal era during the Taj Mahotsav. The event begins with a Mughal procession that will remind you of the glorious regal days of India before the East India Company took over the country’s administration. If you want to visit other places during your time in Agra, we have a list of must-visit places that you should definitely check out.
A common mistake that everyone makes is they visit the Taj and forget everything about the other historical marvels present in the city. Some of the tourists are genuinely not aware of these places. We bring you four other places that are equally beautiful and deserve your time.
Agra Fort
Agra Fort is one of the most spectacular fortifications to still exist from the Mughal era. This is spread across an area of 96 acres and is known for its architectural brilliance. The outer double wall has parapets with indentations to shoot at the enemy and give the soldiers a view of the far-off lands from an elevation. Agra Fort was built by the third emperor of the Mughal Empire, Akbar, in the year 1565. Before the capital shifted to Delhi, the Agra Fort served as the primary residence for the Mughal rulers. If you look keenly, you will notice that the fort has a mix of Turkish, Persian and Indian architectural styles. Though you will find the red walls almost everywhere, some places are made out of marble. And who do you think can be behind this? Shah Jahan, of course! When he came into power, he made minor modifications to the structure and added the touch of white marble.
Location – Agra Fort, Rakabganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282003
Entry Fee – Indians – INR 20; Foreigners – INR 300
Timings – 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Itimad – ud – Daulah
Itimad – ud – Daulah is a miniature version of the Taj Mahal. That is why you will also hear people calling this the mini Taj Mahal. This is a beautiful construction that was commissioned by Nur Jahan, the wife of Jahangir, for her father – Mirza Ghiyas Beg. He attained the title of Itimad – ud – Daulah which translates to the ‘Pillar of the State’. Surprisingly, he was also the grandfather of Mumtaz Mahal, wife of Shah Jahan, the woman for whom the Taj Mahal was built. You can think of Itimad – ud – Daulah as a draft work for the Taj Mahal.
The beautiful monument is present on the eastern banks of the Yamuna River. There are lush green gardens and walking paths around the structure and streams of water also flow rhythmically through the place. There are four octagonal minarets and miniature pillars on the four corners, a characteristic feature that you will see in almost every Mughal construction. This is definitely the most important place to visit in Agra after the Taj Mahal.
Location – Moti Bagh, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282006
Entry Fee – Indians – INR 10; Camera Fee – INR 25; Foreigners – INR 110
Timings – 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Akbar’s Tomb
Akbar’s Tomb is the finest form of architecture that will keep you captivated with its sheer magnificence. It is believed that the Mughals had a custom where the emperors had to build their own tombs or mausoleums before they died. Akbar had a vision about how his tomb should look and evidently, it came out to be marvellous. The structure is a blend of Indian, Persian, Christian and Islamic architectural styles. People also say that the structure clearly depicts an inclusive and eclectic approach. He always advocated for equality among people and religious tolerance.
The tomb has four long minarets and intricate carvings on the wall. It is entirely built with red sandstone and white marble and you will find several floral and geometric patterns throughout the place. The tomb of Akbar is at the centre of the structure and has a beautiful inlay work that will mesmerise you. While you are here, stroll in the beautiful garden that surrounds the Akbar Tomb. It is soothing and peaceful to do so.
Location – Tomb of Akbar The Great Area, Sikandra, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282007
Entry Fee – Indians – INR 15; Foreigners – INR 210
Timings – 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri is an ancient city that is situated about 40km from Agra. If you have a day or two more on your hands, you should travel to this place that was built by Emperor Akbar. In the past, Akbar first travelled to Sikri and met a saint with the name Shaikh Salim Chisti. He predicted very crucial details about the heir of the Mughal empire and it did come true. Akbar was very happy and decided to build a walled city to commemorate the saint. That is Fatehpur Sikri!
Fortified constructions, mahals, lakes, and gardens adorn Fatehpur Sikri and it feels like being in the royal times of the ancient era. This place is silent, very peaceful, and the perfect spot to also go on picnics with your loved ones. You can explore Buland Darwaza, Jodha Bai’s Palace, Birbal’s Palace, Panch Mahal, and Diwan-e-Khaas.
Location – Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh, 283110
Entry Fee – Indians – INR 40; Foreigners – INR 550
Timings – closed on Fridays; 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
How To Reach Agra
By Air
The nearest international airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. You will easily find cabs, buses, and taxi services from here to Agra which is roughly 243 km away. The journey time is about 4 hours. You can also take a train from Delhi to Agra.
By Rail
There are direct trains from Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai to Agra. If you are from cities like Jaipur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Gwalior, and Hyderabad, you can take a train to Delhi first and then travel to Agra. However, there are direct trains as well but they move less frequently. UP Sampark Kranti is a train that goes from Delhi to Agra daily. Vande Bharat is a new addition that has made commuting from Delhi to Agra much easier.
By Road
The Delhi – Agra Taj highway was constructed recently and it has reduced the commuting time from Delhi to Agra by road significantly. People can reach Delhi first and use NH 2 to reach Agra. Also, people from Jaipur can take NH 11 to reach Agra. You can either reach Jaipur or Delhi first and then head towards Agra.
Clear your schedule to attend the Taj Mahotsav this year and we are sure you’ll have the happiest time on your trip!
