Taj Mahotsav 2026: Date, Timings, Ticket Price & More
One of the most eagerly awaited festivals, the Taj Mahotsav, is back. A 10-day-long carnival held in the love city of India, Agra, home to the iconic Taj Mahal. As the festival’s name suggests, it is a vibrant cultural event featuring art, dance, and more. The festival intends to showcase India’s diverse and rich heritage. It is not just any event; it’s an ode to Taj’s rich cultural tapestry, attracting thousands of visitors worldwide. If you are planning a trip to Agra in February, Taj Mahotsav 2026 is the perfect reason to slow down, explore local culture, and experience India beyond monuments.
Taj Mahostav Dates, Entry Fee & More 2026
| Event | Details |
| Taj Mahostav Date 2026 | February 18 to 27 Feb, 2026 |
| Taj Mahostav Theme 2026 | Dharohar |
| Taj Mahostav Location | Shilpgram, near the Eastern Gate of the Taj Mahal, Agra |
| Taj Mahostav Entry Fee | Adult: Rs. 50/- (per person), (Up to 3 years) – Free, Foreign Tourist: Free, Group of 50 School Children in uniform: Rs. 700/- (Free entry for two teachers with a school group) |
Taj Mahotsav History
Started in 1992 by the Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Department, Taj Mahotsav’s main objective was to showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage. The festival has been enthusiastically celebrated and has attracted visitors from India and around the world.
The idea behind Taj Mahotsav was to provide a platform for artisans, cultural performers and local craftsmen from across India. Over the past years, the festival has evolved from a celebration into a grand-scale festival celebrating India and its history. Visitors attending the festivals are bound to experience the classical performances and eventful memories.
Why is The Taj Mahotsav Important For Agra?
Agra is often seen only through the lens of the Taj Mahal. Taj Mahotsav changes that narrative. The festival:
- Supports local and national artisans by connecting them directly with visitors
- Boosts Agra’s economy during the quieter tourist season
- Keeps traditional crafts, music, and dance alive
- Creates cultural pride among local communities
For travellers, it offers a deeper understanding of Agra, not just as a historical city, but as a living, breathing cultural centre.
Taj Mahotsav 2026 Theme: Darohar
The 2026 theme, Dharohar, means Heritage. It celebrates the traditions passed down through generations, crafts, art forms, music, architecture, and ways of life. Rather than focusing only on the past, the theme also highlights how heritage fits into modern India. Visitors will see how ancient skills are being adapted for today’s world, making the festival both nostalgic and forward-looking.
What to Expect at Taj Mahotsav 2026
Taj Mahotsav 2026 offers a multitude of experiences for every type of visitor; here are some things you can expect at this festival:
1. Handicrafts from Across India
Over 400 artisan stalls fill Shilpgram during the festival. You will find:
- Marble inlay work from Agra
- Handwoven textiles
- Wooden carvings
- Traditional jewellery
- Folk art and home décor
Most items are handmade, and many artisans are happy to explain their craft.
2. Cultural Performances Every Evening
Each day ends with live performances, including:
- Classical dance forms like Kathak, Bharatanatyam, and Odissi
- Folk dances from Rajasthan, Punjab, and eastern India
- Live music by renowned and emerging Indian artists
The open-air stage, lit warmly in the evening, creates a relaxed and memorable atmosphere.
3. Food That Reflects India’s Diversity
The food section is a festival in itself. Expect:
- Mughlai dishes are unique to Agra
- Regional street food from different states
- Traditional Indian sweets and snacks
It’s a great place to try dishes you won’t usually find on restaurant menus.
4. Artisan Demonstrations & Workshops
Visitors can watch artisans at work and, in some cases, take part in short workshops. These sessions offer a rare opportunity to learn how intricate crafts are made by hand.
5. Light & Sound Experience (Nearby)
Many visitors pair Taj Mahotsav with the Taj Mahal Light and Sound Show, which narrates the monument’s story through music and illumination. While not inside the festival grounds, it complements the cultural experience beautifully.
How To Reach Taj Mahotsav
To get to Taj Mahotsav, located at Shilpgram near the eastern gate of the Taj Mahal in Agra, you can travel by air, rail, or road. The main railway stations are Agra Cantt, Agra Fort, and Raja Ki Mandi, while Kheria Airport is the nearest airport.
By Air: The nearest airport is Kheria Airport in Agra. From there, you can book a cab/taxi to reach Taj Mahotsav.
By Train: Many trains connect to other states, and the nearest main railway stations are Agra Cantt, Agra Fort, and Raja Ki Mandi.
By Road: Agra is well connected by road to Delhi, Jaipur, Lucknow and other major cities. Once you arrive in Agra, you can take local transport to Shilpgram, the Taj Mahotsav venue.
Places To Visit Near The Taj Mahal
Once you have witnessed the grand celebration of the Taj Mahotsav, here are a few places to visit near the Taj Mahal that should be on your itinerary.
1. Agra Fort
Built in 1565 by Emperor Akbar, Agra Fort is a remarkable structure. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it reflects the wealth and grandeur of the Mughal Empire. The architecture uniquely blends Persian, Turkish, and Indian styles, enhancing its visual appeal. Explore the area as though it were a vivid history book, enveloped in the magnificence and legends of the Mughal empire.
- Location: Agra Fort, Rakabganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh
- Timings: 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Entry Fee:
- INR 50 for Indians
- INR 650 for Foreign Tourists
- INR 40 for Indians on Fridays
- INR 600 for Foreign Tourists on Fridays
2. Fatehpur Sikri
Once the Mughal capital, Fatehpur Sikri holds a special place in history. The Jama Masjid, the Salim Chishti Tomb, the Panch Mahal, and the Diwan-i-Khas are located on the premises. Each wall tells a story, echoing history and rich heritage. It is among the most famous places to visit in Agra.
- Location: Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh, Agra
- Timings: 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Entry Fee: INR 50 for Indians, INR 610 for Foreign Tourists
3. Tomb of Akbar
The mortal remains of Mughal Emperor Akbar are kept inside Akbar’s tomb. This tomb was located in Sikandra between 1605 and 1613; Akbar built a mausoleum for himself. The southern entrance, resembling the Buland Darwaza at Fatehpur Sikri, leads to the tomb. Once inside, visitors are free to wander the expansive charbagh-style garden. The gate is beautifully adorned with geometric and floral patterns crafted in white and coloured marble.
- Location: Tomb of Akbar The Great Area, Sikandra, Agra
- Timings: 6:00 am – 6:30 pm
- Entry Fee: INR 30 for Indians, INR 310 for Foreign Tourists
4. Jama Masjid, Agra
Constructed in the 17th century, the Jama Masjid Mosque is in the old Agra district. Guests are captivated by the beautiful architecture. One of the main reasons to visit this mosque is its architecture, which is a marvel of beauty.
- Location: Jama Masjid, Subash Bazar, Kinari Bazar, Hing ki Mandi, Mantola,
- Timings: 7:00 am – 12:00 pm and 1:30 pm – 6:30 pm
- Entry Fee: Free
5. Kachhpura Village
A winding path near Mehtab Bagh leads to Humayun’s Mosque and Kachhpura. Explore the village for Mughal history. The tour starts with local girls explaining murals created for a youth program. Humayun’s Mosque is another notable site.
- Location: Kachhpura, Barauli Ahir, Agra, Uttar Pradesh
- Timings: Not applicable
- Entry Fee: Not applicable
Conclusion
The Taj Mahotsav is a vibrant festival held annually in Agra. It celebrates the region’s rich cultural heritage and artistic legacy. This 10-day event features a variety of performances, including classical music, dance, and handicraft exhibitions, showcasing the talents of local artisans. Whether you are a first-time visitor to Agra or returning to see more than the Taj Mahal, this event adds warmth, colour, and meaning to your journey.
Plan a trip to Agra around the festival dates, arrive in the evening for performances, and give yourself time to explore slowly. Taj Mahotsav is best enjoyed without rushing.
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Image Sources: Wikimedia Commons, Facebook, Pexels and Pixabay.
FAQs About Taj Mahotsav
Where is the Taj Mahotsav in 2026?
The venue for the Taj Mahotsav 2026 is Shilpgram, near the eastern gate of the Taj Mahal. This annual cultural festival showcases the rich traditions of Indian art, craft, and cuisine, providing a vibrant platform for artisans and visitors to engage and celebrate together.
What is the ticket price for Taj Mahotsav 2026?
Taj Mahotsav 2026 ticket prices are for Adults: Rs. 50/- per person, Up to 3 years – Free, Foreign Tourist: Free, Group of 50 School Children in uniform: Rs. 700/- Free entry for two teachers with a school group.
Who organises Taj Mahotsav?
The Taj Mahotsav, a cultural festival held in Agra, is organised by the Taj Mahotsav Committee and presented by the Commissioner of Agra Division under the patronage of the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department.
What is the timing of Taj Mahotsav?
The Taj Mahotsav 2026 in Agra runs daily from February 18th to March 2nd, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, daily.
When did Taj Mahotsav start?
The Taj Mahotsav, a cultural festival in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, was initiated in 1992 by the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department.
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