Noting the rise in tourists in Agra, and in celebration of International Women's Day, the ASI Headquarters in New Delhi has issued a statement allowing for free entry to monuments in Agra on March 8, 2025. This free entry is extended to monuments such as Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Mehtab Bagh, Fatehpur Sikri, and Sikandra, among others.
At the iconic Taj Mahal, though, this "gift" comes with a caveat. Those looking to enter the main tomb of the iconic marble monument will have to cop a ticket priced at INR 200.
Online booking, though, is discounted—a cut of INR 5 for Indians, and INR 50 for foreign tourists.
Notably, this is not the first instance when these monuments have rolled out this incentive for travellers. Earlier in January this year, authorities announced free entry during the annual Urs of Shah Jahan, a three-day ceremony held at the Taj Mahal in Agra to commemorate the death of the Mughal emperor.
Reportedly, the State Tourism of Jharkhand also announced free entry for women to tourist sites in the state on the occasion of International Women's Day. This is valid for entry to tourist spots, parks, waterfalls, and the Patratu Lake, located roughly 30 kilometres away from the state capital Ranchi.
Earlier this week, Rajasthan Roadways also announced similar "gifts" for International Women's Day. Women in the state can avail free bus services in the state this Saturday. This is applicable only ordinary and express services, and does not apply for air-conditioned and Volvo buses.
It is important to note that the free travel is only valid within the geographical borders of Rajasthan. This implies that should a woman hop onto a Rajasthan Roadways bus that travels from Jaipur to New Delhi, for example, the free ticket will only be applicable till the last stop in Rajasthan. Upon exiting the borders, the fare of the balance route will be levied.