The world’s most beautiful building, the Taj Mahal, is considered the most glorious of all world manmade wonders and is worthy of a long flight on its own merit. It is situated on the banks of Yamuna River in northern/central India and is best seen during a full moon.
The Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is an architectural masterpiece and a symbol of eternal love. Located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, the Taj Mahal was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. This stunning white marble mausoleum attracts millions of visitors from around the globe every year, drawn by its beauty and history.
The amazing structure was built in the 1600s as a mausoleum by the emperor Shah Jahan as his departed queen’s resting place. It features a main hall surrounded by several lofty columns and a marble clad which changes color depending on the time of day. Out front is the main entrance with reflecting pools, which is where the best view of the edifice is.
The Taj Mahal was many years in the making at the hands of thousands of skilled craftsmen from all over India, as well as from China and Italy. The whole thing is perched up on a squat platform to give it a flotation effect when viewed from the river or in front of the reflecting pools. While the main appeal is the views of the tomb from outside, the interior is also incredibly beautiful and is best seen at the Arches in the Mosque interior.
Many visitors are bowled over by the various hues that the Taj Mahal puts out at different times of the day, during sunrises and sunsets and especially at full moon. Unfortunately, it becomes super-busy at these times, and particularly during the latter.
Where to Go
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Taj Museum: Located inside the Taj Mahal complex, the Taj Museum displays a collection of artifacts, including Mughal miniature paintings, calligraphy, coins, and architectural plans, offering insights into the history and construction of the Taj Mahal.
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Mehtab Bagh: Visit Mehtab Bagh, a charbagh garden complex located across the Yamuna River, for a stunning view of the Taj Mahal at sunset. This site offers a unique perspective and is perfect for photography enthusiasts.
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Agra Fort: Just 2.5 kilometers from the Taj Mahal, the Agra Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an important historical monument. Explore its grand palaces, halls, and gardens, and enjoy the panoramic views of the Taj Mahal from its balconies.
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Fatehpur Sikri: A short drive from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is another UNESCO World Heritage site. This historic city was the former capital of the Mughal Empire and is known for its well-preserved buildings and architectural marvels, including the Buland Darwaza and Jama Masjid.
Getting There
It is best to fly to Agra’s Kheria Airport, which is about eight miles southwest of the Taj Mahal and a short flight from New Delhi. You can also get here by road or train from New Delhi, which is 100 miles to the north.
By Air
The nearest airport to the Taj Mahal is the Agra Airport (AGR), also known as Kheria Airport, which is about 13 kilometers from the Taj Mahal. However, it has limited connectivity. The nearest major airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi, about 220 kilometers away. From Delhi, you can reach Agra by train, bus, or car.
By Train
Agra is well-connected by train to major cities in India. The two main railway stations in Agra are Agra Cantonment (AGC) and Agra Fort (AF). The Gatimaan Express, Shatabdi Express, and Taj Express are some of the popular trains that run between Delhi and Agra, taking about 2-3 hours.
By Road
Agra is accessible by road from Delhi via the Yamuna Expressway, a 165-kilometer long, six-lane expressway that offers a smooth and quick journey of about 3-4 hours. Buses operated by the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) and private operators also connect Agra to Delhi and other nearby cities.
Need to Know
- What is it? An elaborate mausoleum built by Shah Jahan for his queen to perpetuate her memory.
- When to go? March/April and October through December. Avoid May through September when it is hot and wet.
- Nearest town: Agra, two miles west.
- Visiting Hours: The Taj Mahal is open every day except Fridays, from sunrise to sunset. Night viewing is also available on the full moon night and two days before and after, excluding Fridays and the month of Ramadan.
- Don’t miss: the view of the Taj Mahal from outside the main gateway at full moon.
- Trivia: the Taj Mahal was 22 years in the making using 22,000 workmen.
Tips
- Arrive Early: To avoid the crowds and capture the Taj Mahal in the best light, plan to arrive at sunrise.
- Dress Modestly: As a mark of respect, wear modest clothing when visiting the Taj Mahal. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the complex.
- Security Checks: Be prepared for security checks at the entrance. Large bags, food, and tobacco products are not allowed inside the complex.
- Local Guides: Hire a certified local guide for a richer understanding of the history and architecture of the Taj Mahal. Audio guides are also available.
- Photography: While photography is allowed outside, it is prohibited inside the main mausoleum. Drones are not permitted.
- Hydrate: Carry a bottle of water, especially during the warmer months, as it can get quite hot walking around the complex.