TAJ MAHAL HIKES TICKET PRICES

Entry to the Taj Mahal has soared in price for Indian residents as part of an ongoing government initiative to bring visitor numbers down.

Authorities worry about the impact that eight million annual visitors have on the state of the 365-yearold mausoleum in Agra. Targeting domestic visitors, who make up the majority of traffic, the cost of entrance to the Unescoprotected site will rise this week from 50 rupees (55p) to 250 rupees (£2.20) for Indian nationals, and from around £13 to £15 for foreigners.

“We want people to pay more to limit the footfall,” said an official from the Archaeological Survey of India. “This will cut down the number of visitors by at least 15 to 20 per cent and generate revenue for its conservation.”