Taj Mahal and other ASI monuments, museums to welcome tourists from June 16

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has decided to reopen all centrally protected monuments from June 16. All the monuments across India were shut down after the country was hit by the deadly second wave. Now, after two months, the monuments will be welcoming tourists from Wednesday.

There are around 3600 centrally-protected monuments in the country. Besides, the country has nearly 50 national galleries and museums that are also centrally-protected. All these will open their doors to visitors on June 16. The condition of COVID-19 has improved in the country and considering this, ASI took the decision. According to ASI, the reopening will follow strict orders by the state and District Disaster Management Authorities. All the health and safety guidelines and SOPs issued by authorities will be followed.
It was on April 15 that the ASI and the nodal Ministry of Culture decided to shut all centrally protected monuments and museums in India due to COVID-19 second wave. Now, months later, the Taj Mahal and thousands of other monuments will reopen to tourists.

However, people will have to book their entry tickets online as offline booking facilities are shut for the time being, informed an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) official.