Mehtab Bagh lies on the left bank of the Yamuna River, directly opposite the magnificent Taj Mahal. This historic garden complex forms a near-perfect square of about 300 by 300 meters and sits in precise alignment with the Taj Mahal across the river. Its location offers one of the most remarkable panoramic views of the monument, allowing visitors to appreciate the symmetry and balance that define Mughal landscape design.

The garden is believed to have been originally established during the reign of Babur in the early 16th century. Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire, had a deep appreciation for Persian-style gardens and introduced the concept of formal charbagh layouts to northern India. These gardens were designed with geometric precision, divided by pathways and water channels that symbolized the gardens of paradise described in Islamic tradition.

Later, during the reign of Shah Jahan, the crescent-shaped floodplain across the Yamuna was recognized as the ideal vantage point from which to admire the Taj Mahal. The site was further developed into a tranquil garden retreat known as Mehtab Bagh, meaning “Moonlight Garden.” Designed as a pleasure garden for evening gatherings, it allowed members of the royal court to admire the Taj Mahal glowing under the moonlight, its white marble reflecting softly in the waters of the river. Today, the garden remains one of the finest locations to view and photograph the Taj Mahal, particularly at sunset and on clear moonlit nights.

Entrance Fee:

• INR 300 Per Person (Foreign Tourist)
• INR 25 Per Person (Citizen of SAARC Countries)
• INR 25 Per Person (Indian National)
• No Entry Fee for children below 15 years of age (any nationality)