Introduction

Part of the main Taj complex, the Taj Museum was established in 1982 is the erstwhile Naubat Khana or Jal Mahal. A veritable treasure trove of historical artifacts and documents relating to the construction the Taj Maha, the museum has many other exhibits dating back to the Mughal era.

Spread over three galleries, the museum showcases around 121 antiques that include manuscripts and government decrees, miniature paintings, blueprints of the Taj Mahal, specimens of calligraphy and inlay work and utensils and arms among other treasures from the Mughal era.

The central exhibit of the main hall are life-size portraits of the Mughal Emperor Shan Jahan ad his wife Mumtaz Mahal made on ivory and encased in ornate wood frames. Other exhibits include paintings from Shahnama of Firdausi, a popular Persian epic and an early 16th century manuscript of Chaihl Majlis signed by Shah Jahan himself and bearing his royal seal, dated 4 February 1628. Replicas of coins minted in Akbarabad, are also on display.

The museum is also home to the original farmans issues for to allow the construction of the Taj Mahal. The second gallery displays a world map that marks the places from where the gems and stones for inlay work on the monument were imported. Other exhibits in this gallery include a Quran stand and a spouted vase carved from jade and porcelain objects and artifacts from that era. Arms such as swords and daggers and specimens of the semiprecious stones used in the construction are also on display.

The third galley is dedicated to the display of important royal farmans of the Mughal era. Specimens of calligraphy and paintings of the Taj Mahal by Daniel, a British artist share space with the ancient documents.

Special Attributes

Exhibits include architectural drawings of Taj Mahal and other historic documents related to its construction.

Nuisance

None, the museum is very peaceful.

Dressing restrictions

The Taj Museum is located within the Taj Mahal complex, which is a religious place. Like most religious places in the country, visitors to the Taj are advised to dress conservatively. Remember, you will have to remove all footwear if you wish to explore the main platform. Special counters have been provided to store these.

Connectivity

Tongas, Buses, Auto Rickshaws, Taxis, Cycle Rickshaws

Enjoyed by

All

Exposure

While visiting the museum, you will be indoors and out of the sun's glare.

Avoidable Season

April, May, June, July, August, September

Facilities

Lockers are available for storing items not allowed inside.

Things Not Allowed

Tripod and Camera Stands, Professional Movie Cameras with more than 8mm lens, Eatables, Electronic Equipment, Mobile Phones, Cigarettes, Lighters, Knives and any Sharp Objects. Video Cameras are not allowed beyond the second gate. Mobile phone use within the Taj complex is a criminal offense

Tip

The museum is located at the Taj complex itself, though it had a separate ticket. A visit to the museum is worth a short break on a quick Agra visit just for the small but opulent examples of Mughal artifacts.

Type of site

Museum