The crescent-shaped Mehtab Bagh is the last in the series of 11 parks along the Yamuna River in Agra. Originally built by the first Mughal emperor- Babur in the early 1500s, the origin of the park goes back to the time when there was no Taj Mahal. However, later, this garden went into disrepair. It was Shah Jahan who rebuilt the garden to protect Taj Mahal from the abrasion of sand. This garden is located in such a way that it gives the perfect view of the Taj. At present, Mehtab Bagh, which is also known as ‘Moonlight Garden’, is reckoned to be one of the most beautiful places to visit in Agra. The history of this alluring garden is known by few but is quite interesting; the width of the former garden which was built by Babur was in perfect alignment with that of Taj, and hence, Shah Jahan identified it as an ideal site to admire the beauty of the Taj Mahal. Originally, the structure of this heritage destination in Agra was like a charbagh complex - a Persian-style layout in which the garden is subdivided into four parts. The complex was separated by white walkaways, well-ventilated pavillions, beautiful fruit trees and water fountains.

In the early 1900s, most of these features got destroyed because of frequent floods, and hence, the entire garden turned into a mound of sand. Later in the year 1994, an excavation was carried out by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) at the garden site. In this excavation, it was discovered that Shah Jahan wanting to construct the replica of Taj Mahal as his resting place on this very ground was nothing but a myth. Wha actually discovered from this excavation was the complex of charbagh buried underneath the sand. Today, all the important features of this popular tourist attraction in Agra have been restored to its original form. A number of plants like citrus, hibiscus and guava have also been planted to bring back the old grandeur of this striking garden. Mehtab Bagh is also an ideal place to catch the gorgeous sunset view.

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Ticketing & Entry Fee of Monuments in Agra | Historical Places

A visit to the city of Agra offers more than just the breathtaking Taj Mahal. Agra, steeped in history and once ruled by the Mughal dynasty, boasts a plethora of grand monuments that captivate and enchant visitors. From the majestic Agra Fort, with its grand halls and palaces, to the exquisite tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, a precursor to the Taj Mahal, Agra is a treasure trove of architectural wonders. The city stands as a testament to the rich legacy of the Mughal era.

The monuments in Agra showcase exceptional architectural features, standing as the epitome of the best examples of Mughal architecture in India.

Explore the historical richness of Agra's heritage sites and immerse yourself in the grandeur of these Mughal marvels.

Note:

1. There is no entry fee for children below 15 years (both Indian & Foreigner).
2. Taj Mahal remains closed every Friday.
3. The use of drone cameras is strictly prohibited inside the Taj Mahal.
4. Tourists are recommended to stay inside the monument as per the directions mentioned on tickets or issued by ASI authorities.
5. A valid identity proof issued by government authorities must be carried by every tourist.
6. Water bottles are allowed inside the monument. Additionally, services such as shoe covers, water bottles, tourist guide maps of Agra, battery buses, and golf carts are provided free of cost with the foreigner's entry ticket to the Taj Mahal.
7. Shoe racks are available just below the main mausoleum free of cost.
8. Ticket windows and cloakrooms are available at both gates of the Taj Mahal.
9. For visiting the main mausoleum of the Taj Mahal, an additional ticket of Rs. 200/- must be purchased along with the regular ticket.