Explained: Why The Taj Mahal’s Underground Tomb Chamber Is Off-Limits To Tourists

India’s most visible cultural attraction has become the centre of a fierce online debate after a video purportedly showing the inner chamber of the Taj Mahal emerged on social media. The viral clip shows the actual tombs of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and his wife Mumtaz Mahal, which are off-limits to visitors.

On August 18, 2025, a post on the Instagram account @dinbhar_bharat_ appears to capture a hidden pathway leading to the underground chamber where the real graves of the royal couple lie. Set to the backdrop of the Bollywood song “Jo Wada Kiya,” the clip quickly gained traction, amassing a wave of reactions. Many social media users and heritage experts were baffled at how the person gained access to such a heavily restricted section of the Taj Mahal.

The identity of the person who entered the area is unknown, and Outlook Traveller couldn’t independently verify the video.

Which Sections Of The Taj Mahal Are Open To The Public?

The Taj Mahal was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal over a period of 22 years. It is an enduring symbol of love and one of the world’s most visited seven wonders, drawing millions of tourists every year.

The complex has four gates, of which the Southern Gate is currently closed. The main point of entry to the Taj Mahal is the Western Gate, which faces towards the Shah Jahan Garden, the Agra cantonment and Agra city. Those who want to avoid the crush of people entering the building should try the Eastern Gate.

Once inside the complex, visitors can stroll around the charbagh garden, a design inspired by Persian gardens, and visit the Taj Museum, whose exhibits include old plans of the Taj Mahal, samples of the stone used in inlay work, old photographs, a few coloured drawing, farmans (royal orders), sanads (land records), and specimens of stones used in the Taj Mahal.   

The main mausoleum of the Taj Mahal is the highlight of the any visit to the complex. The large double-storied domed chamber houses the cenotaphs of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan in a perfect octagonal shape. A highly polished and richly decorated marble lattice screen that encircles both cenotaphs, and the borders of the frames are inlaid with precious stones representing flowers.

However, the real tombs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal are located in an underground chamber that is off limits to visitors. Although in earlier years this section was open to the public, today tourists are only allowed to view the cenotaphs. The genuine tombs remain sealed to preserve the site's sanctity and protect the structure.

What Is In The Restricted Section Of The Taj Mahal?

Over the years, there have been multiple stories about 22 secret rooms beneath the Taj Mahal. But what’s the truth?

According to reports, there are indeed rooms in the Taj Mahal's basement, but there is nothing secret about them. These are not really rooms, but rather a long-arched corridor in the mausoleum’s basement with a door attached. The area is regularly cleaned by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). However, it is kept under lock and key for security reasons.

Experts suggest that these rooms provide structural support to the mausoleum and minaret, and that they are opened from time to time to carry out restoration work.

In light of security concerns, authorities have recently deployed an anti-drone system at the site. Assistant Commissioner of Police (Taj Security) Syed Arib Ahmad confirmed that the system blocks drone signals within 200 m of the main dome, supplementing security provided by Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and Uttar Pradesh Police personnel.

The Information | Taj Mahal, Agra

When Is The Best Time To Visit The Taj Mahal?

October to March is the best season to visit.

Sunrise and sunset are peak times to see the monument. Visitors who are in Agra two days before and after a full moon can enjoy a rare night visit to the Taj Mahal.

What Are The Timings Of The Taj Mahal?

The Taj Mahal is open from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM, except on Fridays when it is closed for general viewing.

What Are The Dos And Don’ts When Visiting The Taj Mahal?

• Tourists must cooperate in keeping the monument neat and clean by using the dustbins.

• Drone cameras are strictly prohibited inside and around the Taj Mahal.

• Eating and smoking are strictly prohibited inside the Taj Mahal. Arms, ammunition, fire, smoking items, tobacco products, liquor, eatables like toffees, headphones, knives, wires, mobile chargers, and electronic items except for cameras and tripods are also prohibited.

• Mobile phones are to be kept switched off or put on silent mode.

• Photography is prohibited inside the main mausoleum.

• Visitors are requested not to make noise inside the mausoleum.

How To Reach The Taj Mahal?

Take a flight or train to Agra from any Indian city.

(With inputs from multiple news reports)