Most Popular Tourist Destination In India - TAJ MAHAL IN AGRA
Taj Mahal symbolizes pure LOVE and BEAUTY
TAJ MAHAL, "an epitome of love" is among the seven wonders of the world and is situated on the banks of the river Yamuna in India. This magnificent monument entirely built of spotless white marble, will leave you breathless when you first set eyes on it. And will continue to linger in your memory. Built between 1631 and 1653, by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in loving memory of his beautiful wife, Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal symbolizes Love.
Why Taj Mahal is among the Seven Wonders of the World
Taj Mahal is built as a monument by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. This monument took 22 years to build in spotless white marble, with inscriptions from the Quran engraved on it . Set on the banks of river Yamuna, it makes for a picturesque location. Spread over 42 acres, it is surrounded by beautiful gardens and fountains at the entrance. Embellished with precious stones and gems and intricate floral motifs, every inch leaves you speechless. 20,000 skilled artisans were involved in the work on Taj Mahal. It is not just the monument, but the love for the Emperor's Queen that strikes you. Later, when he was held captive during his last days, he was housed at the Agra Fort situated across the Yamuna, from where he could see the Taj Mahal. The name Taj Mahal is said to be derived from the Queen's name, Mumtaz Mahal, meaning "Crown Palace".
Taj Mahal signifies Romance and Love and that is why tourists from all over the world flock to see this magnificient "epitome of love" in pure white marble. Lovers, honeymooners and newly weds want to make a trip to see the Taj Mahal in wonderment holding hands. And of course, take a picture seated in front of it, get it framed and let it occupy a prominent space in their home.
Among The Seven Wonders Of The World-THE MESMERIZING TAJ MAHAL
Day Trips To Taj Mahal From Delhi
Taj Mahal is situated in the state of Uttar Pradesh in India, in the city of Agra. New Delhi being the capital of India is a must see on every tourist's itinerary, since it is also a city that connects to several tourist destinations, by air, rail and road. The best way to see Agra and the Taj Mahal is by road. Hiring a private taxi or taking the Delhi Tourism Day trips by road are highly recommended. Agra day trips are arranged from New Delhi everyday, and it takes about 4 1/2 hours approximately to cover 203 kms and reach Agra and the Taj. Leaving New Delhi a 6.30 AM, one can arrive at the Taj Mahal by 12.45 PM. After lunch, between 3 PM and 4 PM, one can visit the Agra Fort built in red sandstone, with its magnificent palaces and Halls of Public and Private audience used by the Mughal Emperors. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, this Fort also housed the Emperor Shah Jahan as a prisoner in the little octagonal tower from where he could view the Taj Mahal across the Yamuna, in the last year of his life. He was kept under house arrest by his third son, Aurangzeb.
One can also see the precious stones and gems being inlaid into marble by local artisans in the marble factory.
Before driving back to Delhi, a visit to the magnificent garden tomb of Mughal Emperor Akbar is a must at Sikandra.
How To Reach Taj Mahal
Agra where Taj Mahal is located is easily accessible by road, rail and air.
By Air : Daily flights are operated by Indian Airlines to Agra. The airport is just 7 kms from the city.
By Rail : The main trains connecting Agra with Delhi are Palace on Wheels, Shatabdi, Rajdhani, and Taj Express.
By Road : Agra is connected to Delhi, Jaipur, Mathura, Fatehpur-Sikri, by a network of good roads.
Local Transportation : Prepaid taxis are a good choice.
Best Time To Visit Taj Mahal is between October and March. Spending a whole day from dawn to dusk is highly recommended. Checking into a hotel would be advisable. The beauty of the Taj is seen at different times of day and night, with the precious stones gleaming in the sun and moonlight from different angles. Absolutely stunning!
Archaeological
Survey of India has specified the timings of visit.
Timings: 6:00 am to 7:30 pm (Friday closed, except for those going for Friday afternoon prayers at the mosque)
Fee: Rs. 970 (Foreigners)
Rs. 20 (Indians,
during daytime)
Rs. 110 (Indians,
during sunrise and sunset)