Taj Mahal East Gate - Where the Procession Began

A stop on Taj Mahal and Agra: A Self-Guided Visit, a free self-guided tour.

You have passed security and stepped into the forecourt, the space the Mughals called the jilaukhana. In Shah Jahan's day this is where visitors climbed down from their horses and elephants and gathered before entering the tomb. Nobody rode up to the Taj Mahal; you arrived here and walked in, just as you are doing now.

The red sandstone gateway behind you is the East Gate, one of the entrances most visitors use today. Nearby stands a domed tomb built for Sirhindi Begum, another of Shah Jahan's wives, which is why locals sometimes call this the Sirhi Darwaza. Around the forecourt were once rows of rooms for attendants and a busy market whose income helped pay for the upkeep of the tomb.

Take a moment before you go on. Ahead of you is a deliberately staged approach: a gate that hides the tomb, then a sudden reveal. Turn toward the large red gateway on the north side of the forecourt and get ready for your first view.

Getting here: From the East Gate parking area, the last stretch is closed to polluting vehicles, so walk or take one of the electric shuttles to the ticket windows and security check, then step through into the forecourt.

Did you know?: Vehicles that burn fuel are kept away from the Taj Mahal to protect its marble from air pollution, which is why the final approach is by foot or electric vehicle.

Photo op: Stand in the middle of the forecourt and frame the Great Gate's tall arch and white marble trim against the morning sky.

Nearby: Ticket windows and a cloakroom for bags are near the East Gate entrance; there are restrooms by the gates. No food is allowed inside, so eat before you enter.

More on Wikipedia: Taj Mahal · Shah Jahan

Taj Mahal East Gate - Where the Procession Began

Stops on this tour