Taj Mahal Reopens to Public After Seychelles President Cancels Visit
Taj Mahal public entry restrictions lifted after Seychelles President's visit was cancelled.
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on Monday night announced that the Taj Mahal will remain fully open to the general public after the cancellation of a proposed VVIP visit by Seychelles President Patrick Herminie. The ASI confirmed through an official post on X that entry and ticketing would function as usual, bringing relief to tourists and locals alike.
Earlier, the ASI had ordered partial closure of the monument for two and a half hours on Tuesday morning, from 9 am onwards, due to the President’s scheduled visit along with his wife, Veronique Herminie. The temporary restrictions were part of standard security protocols followed during high-level foreign visits to heritage sites.
However, officials later clarified that President Herminie would no longer be visiting the Taj Mahal. Sources indicated that only First Lady Veronique Herminie is now expected to visit the monument, leading authorities to withdraw all special restrictions imposed earlier.
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President Herminie arrived in India on February 5 for a five-day official visit—his first since assuming office in October 2025. The visit coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles, with discussions focusing on bilateral cooperation, regional security, and international matters of mutual interest.
Meanwhile, Agra is preparing to host another high-profile guest. Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana of Thailand is scheduled to arrive on Tuesday evening and will visit the Taj Mahal on Wednesday morning as a state guest of the Uttar Pradesh government.
Local authorities stated that all arrangements for upcoming VVIP visits are in place. Additional District Magistrate (Protocol) Prashant Tiwari confirmed that coordination meetings have been held to ensure seamless security, transportation, and reception arrangements, with advance teams from both countries already stationed in Agra.
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