Taj Mahal reopens for night viewing after 1.5 years

INTERNATIONAL DESK: After remaining closed for over a year for night viewing, the Taj Mahal was reopened from August 21 for visitors who want to explore the marble monument under moonlight.

Night viewing of the monument had closed on March 17, 2020 during the first lockdown due to COVID-19.

“The monument has reopened after almost two years for night viewing. It looked beautiful in the moonlight. It was a different experience,” said Manoj Saxena, a visitor.

Another visitor, Paridhi Joshi, said she had always wanted to see the Taj Mahal and had heard it was breathtaking.

She described it as unquestionably gorgeous. She added that the moonlight only adds to the beauty of the world’s seventh wonder. She called it an enriching experience. Another visitor, Reena, noted that seeing the Taj Mahal at night was a memorable experience.

Vasant Kumar Swarnkar, Superintending Archaeologist, Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Agra, said “It is good news for tourists and visitors that after 1.5 years Taj Mahal has been re-opened to people for night viewing. We have made all necessary arrangements for people to follow the COVID-19 protocol and guidelines. Only after checking the body temperature and sanitising their hands, we are allowing them entry into the monument. We are also ensuring that people wear masks and maintain social distancing”.

He said there are three time slots for visitors. From 8:30-9 pm, 9-9:30 pm and from 9:30-10 pm. (PTI, ANI)