World Heritage Week 2024: Enjoy free entry to the Taj Mahal and other attractions from Nov 19
World Heritage Week 2024 will begin on November 19. For those planning a trip to Agra, it’s the best time as during this week, visitors will get free entry to all Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) protected monuments in Agra.
Visitors can enjoy free entry to the Taj Mahal (tourists will have to pay INR 200 to visit the main dome). Not only this, there will be a series of interesting programmes organised at different locations in the city.
Visitors would be able to enjoy free access between 19 and 25 November. This is for the first time that the World Heritage Week will begin at the Sitaram Temple in Soronji, marking the first time this temple has been chosen as the launching venue.
This initiative aims to highlight lesser-known heritage sites alongside Agra’s renowned monuments. Dr. Rajkumar Patel, a distinguished archaeologist, has outlined the week’s activities, including a photography exhibition tracing the journey of the Ramayana from the Gupta period to the present. The exhibition will be held at multiple locations, showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage. Additionally, a new public facility, the Jan Suvidha Kendra, will be inaugurated at the Sitaram Temple to enhance visitor experience.
In a statement about the program, archaeologist Dr. Rajkumar Patel announced that a photography exhibition highlighting events related to the Ramayana will be held at various monuments and buildings across the country. The exhibition will feature artworks spanning from the Gupta period to the present day. Additionally, a new public facility center will be inaugurated at the Sitaram Temple to enhance the convenience of tourists.
Several events will also be organized in Atranjikhera, with Ramayana-themed exhibitions as a key highlight. Notably, this year marks the first time World Heritage Week has been launched from a protected monument, aiming to raise awareness about the historical and cultural significance of these sites among visitors.
About World Heritage Week
World Heritage Week is observed annually from November 19 to November 25 to promote awareness about the importance of preserving cultural and historical heritage. Organized by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the events align with UNESCO’s global goals for heritage conservation.
This year’s theme, “Discover and Experience Diversity,” encourages people to explore and appreciate the rich cultural diversity that defines India.