Dear Lykkers! The Taj Mahal, an architectural masterpiece and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, stands as a testament to eternal love, drawing millions of visitors to Agra, India, every year.
This iconic white-marble mausoleum, built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, is not just a symbol of love but also an epitome of Mughal architecture that blends Persian, Indian, and spiritual styles.
Getting to the Taj Mahal
Agra is well-connected by air, train, and road. The nearest airport is Agra Airport, located about 13 kilometers from the Taj Mahal, with direct flights from Delhi and Jaipur.
By train, the Gatimaan Express from Delhi is the fastest option, taking just under two hours to reach Agra. For a more scenic journey, you can also take the Shatabdi Express or the Taj Express.
If you prefer traveling by road, Agra is about 230 kilometers (143 miles) from Delhi, a drive that takes approximately 3-4 hours along the Yamuna Expressway.
The Story Behind the Taj Mahal
In 1631, after the tragic death of Mumtaz Mahal during childbirth, Shah Jahan commissioned the construction of a mausoleum in her memory. It took around 22 years to complete, with construction starting in 1632 and finishing in 1653. Over 20,000 artisans, including the finest craftsmen from across India and beyond, worked tirelessly to bring Shah Jahan's vision of a breathtaking monument to life.
The Taj Mahal is not only a symbol of devotion but also an embodiment of the Mughal Empire's grandeur at its peak. Upon completion, the mausoleum stood as the emperor's tribute to the love he had for his wife, marking it as one of the greatest love stories ever told in stone.
The Architectural Beauty of the Taj Mahal
The beauty of the Taj Mahal lies in its symmetry, intricate details, and perfect proportions. The central dome, which rises to a height of 73 meters (240 feet), is flanked by four smaller domes and four towering minarets. Each element of the structure was meticulously designed to maintain a perfect sense of balance.
The main building, constructed from gleaming white marble, is inlaid with intricate designs made of semi-precious stones like lapis lazuli, turquoise, agate, and jasper. These delicate inlays form floral patterns that glow under the light, giving the monument an ethereal quality.
The marble itself was sourced from Makrana, Rajasthan, which is known for its pristine quality.
The Charbagh Garden, a formal Mughal garden with walkways and fountains, adds to the symmetry and serenity of the site. As you walk along the paths, the reflection of the Taj Mahal in the long pool at the garden's center creates a magical sight.
Best Time to Visit the Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is beautiful at any time of day, but certain times make the experience even more spectacular:
Sunrise: Witnessing the Taj as the first rays of sunlight touch its marble surface, turning it from a soft pink to glowing white, is an unforgettable experience. The early morning hours are also the best time to avoid crowds.
Sunset: As the sun sets, the Taj Mahal takes on a golden hue, creating a romantic and tranquil atmosphere.
Full Moon: On five nights around the full moon, including the two nights before and after, the Taj Mahal is open for special night viewings, allowing visitors to experience its glow under the moonlight.
The monument is open from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM, except on Fridays.
Ticket Prices and Entry Information
Visiting the Taj Mahal requires a ticket, and the prices are as follows:
Foreign tourists: ₹1,300 (about $16 USD)
Indian citizens: ₹50
Children under 15 years: Free
There is an additional charge of ₹200 (around $2.50 USD) for visiting the main mausoleum. Visitors are also advised to buy their tickets online to avoid long queues at the entrance.
Exploring Beyond the Taj Mahal
While the Taj Mahal is the centerpiece, Agra has more to offer:
1. Agra Fort: Located just 2.5 kilometers from the Taj Mahal, this massive red sandstone fort was the residence of the Mughal emperors and offers fantastic views of the Taj from its towers. Entry is around ₹650 (about $8 USD) for foreign tourists.
2. Mehtab Bagh: Situated on the northern bank of the Yamuna River, this garden provides a perfect viewpoint to see the Taj Mahal from a distance. It's an ideal spot for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset. Entry is ₹200 for foreign visitors.
3. Fatehpur Sikri: About 40 kilometers from Agra, this ancient Mughal city, once the capital of the empire, is worth a day trip. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers an insight into Mughal architecture and history.
Accommodation Near the Taj Mahal
Agra has numerous accommodation options catering to all budgets. Some of the top recommendations include:
The Oberoi Amarvilas: One of the most luxurious hotels in Agra, offering stunning views of the Taj Mahal from every room. Prices start at around ₹35,000 ($420 USD) per night.
Taj Hotel & Convention Centre Agra: A comfortable and upscale hotel with easy access to the Taj Mahal. Rooms start from around ₹6,000 ($70 USD) per night.
TAJ MAHAL (Agra, India): full tour
Video by the Luxury Travel Expert
Dining in Agra
Agra offers a variety of dining options, from fine dining to local eateries. Some of the best places to try authentic Mughlai cuisine are:
Pinch of Spice: A popular restaurant serving Mughlai and North Indian dishes, including biryani and kebabs, with prices starting at around ₹500 ($6 USD) per person.
Esphahan: Located within the Oberoi Amarvilas, Esphahan offers a fine-dining experience with traditional Indian cuisine. Expect to pay ₹2,500 ($30 USD) per person for a meal.
The Taj Mahal is not just an architectural wonder but a symbol of enduring love that continues to inspire awe in every visitor. No matter you're drawn by its history, fascinated by its intricate design, or simply want to experience the serenity of this magnificent monument, the Taj Mahal promises a journey that will leave you with memories of a lifetime.
Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness one of the world's greatest marvels in person.
