TAJ MAHAL, AGRA – A TESTAMENT TO LOVE AND DEVOTION
The Taj Mahal, situated on the banks of the Yamuna River in Agra, is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial for his beloved third wife, Mumtaz Mahal, this architectural marvel is also the final resting place of Shah Jahan himself. The Taj Mahal, which is entirely made of white marble, is a masterpiece of 17th-century Mughal architecture and is widely regarded as one of the most exquisite monuments in the world.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Taj Mahal is a symbol of the Crown of Palaces in the Persian language. The tomb, which is rectangular in shape, is accessed through a grand gateway with arches and alcoves on both sides. The entrance features water channels and fountains, adding to the monument's beauty and grandeur. The reflection of the Taj Mahal in the Yamuna River is a sight to behold and has a poetic quality to it.
Construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1631 and was completed in 1648, spanning a period of 17 years. The monument covers an area of approximately 42 acres and was built using white marble from Makrana in Rajasthan.
Inside the Taj Mahal
Inside the Taj Mahal, visitors can explore the main mausoleum, which houses the tombs of Emperor Shah Jahan and his wife Mumtaz Mahal. The interior of the mausoleum is intricately decorated with floral motifs, calligraphy, and precious stones, making it a truly breathtaking sight to behold. Visitors can also explore the surrounding gardens, which are laid out in the classic Mughal style and feature reflecting pools, fountains, and manicured lawns. Other notable features of the Taj Mahal complex include the mosque and guest house, both of which are built from red sandstone and feature stunning architectural details. Overall, a visit to the Taj Mahal is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who witness its beauty and grandeur.
Interesting Facts
Taj Mahal at Night
Nighttime viewing of the Taj Mahal is allowed on five specific nights of the month - the full moon night and the two nights before and after it. The exception is during the holy month of Ramadan when night viewing is not allowed. Tickets need to be purchased in advance from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) office or online on the ASI website. Visitors are allowed to spend a maximum of 30 minutes inside the complex during night viewing hours. The view of the illuminated monument is said to be a mesmerizing sight and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. However, photography is not allowed during night viewing hours.
Experiences and Activities for Tourists
As one of the most popular tourist destinations in India, Taj Mahal offers a wide range of experiences and activities for tourists to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do:
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Taj Mahal is from November to February, which is the winter season in India. During this time, the weather is pleasant and comfortable, making it ideal for exploring the monument and its surroundings. The temperature during this time ranges from 8°C to 25°C. It is advisable to avoid visiting during the summer months of April to June when the temperature can soar up to 50°C, making it extremely uncomfortable for tourists. The monsoon season from July to September brings heavy rainfall, which can affect your travel plans.
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