Those who have love in their hearts have fantasized about the Taj Mahal at least once. The seventh wonder of the world still stands as a symbol of beauty, with many foreigners flocking to India to see it. People in relationships often express to their partners, “I’ll build you a Taj Mahal,” and I’ve said the same thing to my girlfriend. Lover’s dream of visiting the Taj Mahal at least once in their lifetime. The day I visited was glorious; The mist seems to fall in love with the Taj Mahal.
A story of love and marbles
The Taj Mahal was built in the 17th century by a powerful emperor named Shah Jahan. He wanted to create a special place to honor his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who had passed away. The emperor aimed to build something that would be remembered forever and so the idea of the Taj Mahal was born. Emperor Shah Jahan used to go to Taj Mahal by boat through Yamuna river. It took 22 years and 20,000 workers to build the Taj Mahal. Many locals believe that 20,000 of Emperor Shahjahan’s workers had their hands cut off, although there is no historical evidence for this.
Building a masterpiece
The construction of the Taj Mahal took many years and involved thousands of skilled workers. They used white marble to build this huge structure, which glows in the sunlight. The emperor spared no expense, and artisans were brought in from all over the world to work on the Taj Mahal.
A symbol of eternal love
Shah Jahan’s love for Mumtaz Mahal is legendary. He wanted to create something that would stand as a symbol of their love forever. The Taj Mahal is not just a monument; It is a tribute to the enduring power of love. People from all over the world visit the Taj Mahal to see its beauty and feel the love that went into its creation.
Explore the Taj Mahal
When you visit the Taj Mahal, you will be struck by its sheer size and beauty. The main building is surrounded by lush gardens and reflecting pools, which add to its charm. Inside, you will find intricate carvings and beautiful marble work that will amaze you.
Legends and stories
The Taj Mahal is not just a beautiful building; It is steeped in legends and stories. A popular story is that Shah Jahan planned to build a second Taj Mahal made of black marble across the river as his own final resting place. However, this plan never came to fruition and the emperor was eventually buried in the Taj Mahal next to Mumtaz Mahal.
When to visit
The Taj Mahal is open to visitors every day except Fridays. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the crowds are less, and the light is just right for perfect photography. The Taj Mahal is open from sunrise to sunset, which is why the crowds start pouring in from sunrise.
While the Taj Mahal is undoubtedly Agra’s star attraction, there are plenty of other things to see and do in the region. Agra Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is worth exploring for its stunning architecture and rich history. You can also visit the nearby Mehtab Bagh Gardens for a peaceful walk and get a great view of the Taj Mahal from across the river.
funny story
Did you know that the Taj Mahal changes color depending on the time of day? In the morning, it looks pink, in the evening it takes on a golden hue. This phenomenon is known as the “Taj Glow” and adds to the magic of this iconic monument.
Personal experience
If you are a foreigner, you must purchase a ticket to visit. Price is 1300 INR (as of 2024 when I visited). Interestingly, the ticket price for locals is Rs.250. It is important to note that you must show your passport. Upon arrival, you will be checked by the army and you will not be allowed to carry heavy bags, cameras or luggage. After finishing visiting the Taj Mahal, don’t forget to try the famous Indian dish “Dosa”.
The Taj Mahal is more than just a building; It symbolizes love, beauty and India’s rich history. Visiting this magnificent monument is an experience you will never forget, and is sure to leave you feeling inspired and awestruck. So why not plan a trip to Agra and discover the magic of the Taj Mahal for yourself?