Best way to see the Taj

Sorry if this has been covered ad nausea here, but I'm new to the site and trying to make sure I've got our groups bases covered. We're slated to arrive in Agra in late afternoon of January 3rd. We are checking in at the Hotel Mansingh (Mansingh Palace) on Fatehbad road.

We have the rest of the evening free from tours or anything; however, I always heard that if you want to truly appreciate the taj mahal, you have to see it at night. Is this true? If we go at night, is there a reason to go again in the morning? Can we just go by the Taj and admire it from the outside or must we purchase tickets for a late night visit?

Currently, we're slated to leave Agra on the 4th after a tour of teh taj. Any help / advice would clearly be appreciated.

Night viewing of Taj is only possible 2 days before the Full Moon, Full Moon day and 2 days after Full Moon. So it would not be possible for you to see the Taj during the night during your time of visit.

It would be better to see the Taj before 8:00 AM. Check when the ticket counter opens and be there as soon as it opens.

thank you aarosh

Sunrise and Sunset are the best times to view Taj's splendour. However, you won't get a proper view in the morning due to the mist/fog in december/january, but still that view also is worth your money.

Find the Shanti Lodge, very nearby to the main entrance. They have a fourth story restaurant, and a Great View to the Taj . . . (order the veg burger, Yum!) . . . nightime/anytime! views from the Shanti are worth finding it

thank you darma. I'll be sure to do all I can to find this lodge upon arrival into the city. I can't wait.

There is nothing good in Tajmahal IMO.

I went to Tajmahal,AgraFort and Sikndara. I did not find any thing special in all these places.

You also found little of value in Delhi, if I remember correctly. Perhaps the problem is not with the places. I think it's sad that you were unable to find anything beauty at the Taj.

Don't miss the 'mini taj' about a 10 minute ride away and if time permits Agra Fort.

Oh my goodness the Taj Mahal is so beautiful. Even though you know what it looks like before you get there it still amazes you. I'm looking forward to visiting for a second time in a few weeks.

Thanks Darmabum for the tip. Shanti Lodge for sunset dinner it is.

Agra Fort was nice for about 5 mins but I quickly lost interest.

I visited Taj in Jan 2010 and it was a memorable event of my Life.
One can also see Taj from Opposite side of Yamuna River near mehtab bagh in the evening and its wonderful.

If someone going to Agra then please go to Gura ka Taal (on Mathura road) and Dayal bagh (near Bhagwan talkies).