Taj Mahal Closed for General Tourists on February 10, 2026: Seychelles President Dr. Patrick Herminie’s VIP Visit and Thailand Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana’s Tour Cause Morning Restrictions

Agra, February 10, 2026 – The iconic Taj Mahal, one of the world’s most visited monuments and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will remain temporarily closed to general tourists during the morning hours on Tuesday, February 10, 2026. This restriction comes as Seychelles President Dr. Patrick Herminie and his wife, Mrs. Veronique Herminie, undertake a special visit to the majestic white marble mausoleum as part of his ongoing state visit to India.

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), which manages the Taj Mahal, has issued a directive prohibiting entry for regular visitors from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM. This 2.5-hour window is dedicated exclusively to the presidential couple’s tour, ensuring seamless security protocols and adherence to diplomatic etiquette. Tourists already inside the premises by 9:00 AM will be required to exit, and ticket counters will close as early as 7:00 AM to facilitate these arrangements.

Superintending Archaeologist Smita S. Kumar of the ASI has confirmed the order, emphasizing that the measure is strictly for security and protocol reasons during the high-profile visit. The decision aligns with standard procedures for VIP visits at protected monuments, where temporary closures minimize crowds and potential risks.

This development is particularly significant for domestic and international tourists planning their Agra itinerary. The Taj Mahal typically opens at sunrise (around 6:00 AM in February) and attracts thousands of visitors daily, especially during peak winter season. Those with pre-booked tickets or sunrise slots may need to adjust plans, as morning access will be unavailable. Authorities recommend checking official ASI updates or the Taj Mahal’s entry portal for real-time advisories and considering afternoon visits after 11:30 AM for a hassle-free experience.

Seychelles President’s Landmark State Visit to India

Dr. Patrick Herminie, who assumed office as President of the Republic of Seychelles in October 2025, is on his first official state visit to India since taking charge. Invited by the Government of India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the visit spans February 5 to 10, 2026, and coincides with the golden jubilee—50th anniversary—of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles.

The bilateral ties, rooted in shared Indian Ocean geography, history, and values of democracy, have grown stronger over decades. Seychelles holds a special place in India’s MAHASAGAR vision (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions), which promotes maritime cooperation, sustainable development, and regional security.

During his itinerary, President Herminie has engaged in high-level meetings in Chennai, Mumbai, and New Delhi. In Mumbai, he interacted with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, discussing port-led development, coastal management, and economic opportunities. In Delhi, he held bilateral talks with Prime Minister Modi, received a guard of honour, and attended a banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

The leaders reaffirmed commitments to deepen collaboration in blue economy, trade, climate resilience, healthcare, capacity building, and maritime security. The visit also highlights cultural exchanges and people-to-people ties, with Seychelles celebrating its 50th Independence anniversary this year alongside the diplomatic milestone.

The Taj Mahal visit at 10:00 AM on February 10 forms a cultural highlight of the itinerary. Following the tour, the presidential couple will depart from Delhi later in the evening, wrapping up the state engagements.

Another VIP Visit: Thailand’s Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana on February 11

Adding to the back-to-back high-security arrangements in Agra, Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya of Thailand is scheduled to visit the Taj Mahal on the morning of Wednesday, February 11, 2026. The princess, daughter of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn, arrives in Agra by special flight on the evening of February 10.

She will stay overnight as a state guest of the Uttar Pradesh government at a luxury hotel. Her visit to the Taj Mahal is part of a broader cultural tour of India, which has included Rajasthan cities like Jaipur and Jodhpur from February 6 to 10, focusing on heritage sites such as Amer Fort and Mehrangarh Fort.

While official confirmation on exact restrictions for February 11 is pending, Agra authorities anticipate similar morning limitations or partial closures for general tourists to accommodate the royal visit. This dual VIP schedule underscores Agra’s growing appeal as a global diplomatic and cultural destination.

Preparations and Security Measures in Agra

The Agra district administration, local police, ASI, and advance teams from Seychelles and Thailand have finalized comprehensive security and logistical plans. These include crowd management, access control, and enhanced surveillance to ensure smooth operations without compromising the monument’s sanctity.

Advance delegations from both countries are already in Agra, coordinating with Indian officials. Such preparations are routine for state-level visits but highlight the Taj Mahal’s status as a symbol of India’s heritage and a preferred site for international dignitaries to experience its timeless beauty.

Impact on Tourism and Advice for Visitors

The temporary restrictions, though brief, may inconvenience peak-season travelers. Agra sees heavy footfall in February due to pleasant weather, making advance planning essential.

Tips for tourists:

Avoid morning slots on February 10 and possibly February 11.
Opt for afternoon or evening visits (Taj Mahal remains open until sunset).
Book tickets online via the official ASI website to secure slots.
Monitor real-time updates from ASI or Agra tourism authorities.
Consider combining the visit with nearby sites like Agra Fort or Fatehpur Sikri for a full-day itinerary.

These high-profile visits not only reflect India’s strong diplomatic standing but also boost cultural tourism by showcasing the Taj Mahal to global leaders.

Strengthening India’s Global Ties

The Seychelles President’s visit and the Thai Princess’s tour exemplify India’s deepening relations in the Indo-Pacific and Southeast Asia. With shared interests in sustainability, security, and cultural heritage, such exchanges foster mutual understanding and open avenues for future collaboration.

As the Taj Mahal stands as a testament to eternal love and architectural brilliance, hosting these dignitaries reinforces its role as a bridge between nations. Tourists affected by the restrictions are encouraged to view this as part of the monument’s global prestige.

For the latest updates on Taj Mahal timings, closures, or VIP-related changes, visit the official ASI portal or follow credible news sources. Plan accordingly to enjoy one of the world’s seven wonders without disruption.