The Taj Mahotsav 2026 marks the 35th year of India’s most vibrant cultural celebration. Organized by the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department, this 10-day extravaganza is a “Gala Carnival” that brings together the finest art, craft, and soul-stirring performances from every corner of India. Set against the immortal backdrop of the Taj Mahal, the festival is a sensory journey through the country’s rich heritage.
Taj Mahotsav 2026 Date & Schedule
The festival is a fixed highlight of the Indian spring calendar. For 2026, the official dates have been confirmed:
- Taj Mahotsav 2026 Date: February 18 to February 27, 2026.
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.
- Inaugural Event: The festival begins on the morning of Feb 18 with a grand Mughal-style procession featuring caparisoned elephants, camels, and folk artists.
Venue & Location Of The Taj Mahotsav 2026
The traditional venue for the Taj Mahotsav Agra is Shilpgram (Crafts Village), located just 500 meters from the Eastern Gate of the Taj Mahal.
Traveler’s Note: In 2026, the administration has expanded the carnival zone to nearby open grounds to accommodate larger crowds, though Shilpgram remains the heart of the craft and cultural stage.
Tickets & Entry Fees Of The Taj Mahotsav 2026
The Agra Taj Mahotsav 2026 remains one of the most affordable high-profile festivals in India.
| Category | Entry Fee |
| Adults (Indians) | INR 50 per person |
| Children (Up to 3 years) | Free |
| Children (3 to 12 years) | INR 10 per child |
| Foreign Tourists | Free Entry |
| School Groups | INR 700 for 50 students (includes 2 teachers) |
- Where to buy: Tickets are available at dedicated counters at the East, West, and Shilpgram gates.
- How to get Paytm cashback on Taj Mahotsav tickets Agra: While entry tickets are primarily sold at physical windows, you can use Paytm UPI at the counter to pay. Look for seasonal “Agra Tourism” or “UPI Merchant” cashback offers within the Paytm app to save on your transaction.
Key Attractions Of The Taj Mahotsav Mela
1. The Craft Bazaar (Shilp Bazaar)
Over 400 legendary artisans display Taj Mahotsav images of perfection through their work:
- Agra: Marble inlay (Parchin Kari) and Zardozi embroidery.
- Saharanpur: Masterful wood carvings.
- Khurja: Iconic blue pottery.
- Kashmir & Bhadohi: Hand-knotted silk and wool carpets.
- Lucknow: Authentic Chikan work.
2. Rhythmic Revelry: Music & Dance
Every evening, the open-air theater hosts world-renowned artists. The Taj Mahotsav festival features a mix of:
- Classical dances (Kathak, Odissi, Bharatnatyam).
- Folk performances (Brij’s Charkula, Rajasthan’s Kalbelia, and North East’s Bamboo dance).
- Star Nights: Performances by Bollywood playback singers and Sufi qawwali groups.
3. The Food Festival
Indulge in a “Gourmet’s Delight.” The food zone offers authentic Mughlai cuisine, Lucknowi Galouti kebabs, South Indian delicacies, and the local staple – Agra’s various flavors of Petha.
How To Participate In Taj Mahotsav
If you are an artisan or performer looking to showcase your talent:
- Stall Allotment: Applications open via the Official Website approximately 3 months before the start.
- Fees for 2026: A standard “Shilpi” stall (10’x10′) is priced at approximately INR 21,000 + GST for the 10-day duration.
- Selection: All participants must be registered with the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts/Handlooms).
Visitor Guide & Tips
- Free Entry for Foreigners: Don’t forget to carry your passport for identity verification to avail of the free entry benefit.
- Combine Your Visit: Plan your Taj Mahal visit for the early morning (sunrise) and head to the Mahotsav in the late afternoon to catch the best cultural shows.
- Stay: Book hotels in the Taj Ganj area to stay within walking distance of both the monument and the festival venue.
Summing Up
The Taj Mahotsav 2026 is more than just a Taj Mahotsav mela; it is a tribute to the “Essence of India.” From the intricate stone carvings to the aroma of slow-cooked Mughlai biryani, it offers a complete immersion into the heart of Indian culture.
