Taj Mahal

Some western observer believes that the architectural splendor of the majestic Taj Mahal has never been surpassed. It is considered as one of the 8th wonders of the world. Taj mahal is the most gorgeous monolith built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jhan due to the love and passion he had for his wife Mumtaz Mahal who died at the age of 39 while giving birth to their 14th child. The king went into incisive grieving and much of his empire was compelled to do the same. The grave of king and the queen lies under the tomb inside Taj Mahal. Built entirely of white marble it took 22 years in the construction of this masterpiece. It took the toil of 20000 skilled craftsmen from India and abroad to accomplish the task of construction.

Structure of Taj Mahal
The mausoleum does not stand in isolation but it comprises of an extensive complex with a main gateway, an intricate garden, a great mosque, a prayer building, and encircling walls. It was completed in 1648 at a cost of 32 Million Rupees. The construction documents show that its master architect was Ustad 'Isa, a famous Islamic architect of his time. The main structure of Taj Mahal is 62 meters (186 ft) on each side. The corner minarets are 41.1 meters (137 ft) high. In comparison to the glowing white marble of the mausoleum, the beautiful structures of red sandstone are collateral the tomb to the west and to the east. On the western lies the grand mosque while the museum, that was built to complete the symmetry of the scene lies on the eastern side. The water causeway and exquisite fountains links the gateway and the tomb in perfect harmony.
The tomb is constructed in white marble with pristine carving and inlaid designs of flowers and calligraphy. The calligraphy is done in a style, which creates an aesthetic mirage.

Inside the Complex
The intrinsic of the structure is gloomily lit through perforated marble lattices and contains an artiste display of carved marble. Externally the building gains a delicate look from its marble facings, which respond with extraordinary refinement to changing light and weather.
The ravishing laid out gardens girdling the Taj Mahal almost a thousand feet away from the entrance gate are said to have been beyond description. River Yamuna flows exactly behind the Taj Mahal adding the grace to the premises. It is said that the gardens are patterned along the Persian Char Bagh style. Macadamize lanes divide the green lawns and splashing fountains exactly in two halves.

Changing Colors of Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal seems to luminescence in the light of the full moon. On a misty morning, the travelers encountering the Taj Mahal as if pendulous when viewed from across the Jamuna river. Taj Mahal procures different shades at different time of the day, Taj Mahal at the time of the rising ball of fire, at sunset, under the full moon, each time the monument acquires a different rhythm and tells a different story. It was a souvenir of the love and devotion of a king for his queen that inspired such an obelisk which radiate his love across the vista.

Important Information
Entry Fee: For Foreigners- US$5+ RS500.00, For Indians- RS25.00.
Tourist Timings: 6:00AM- 7:30PM everyday, Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays.

Accessibility
Air : The airport in Agra is at 6 kms away from the city center and can be accessed by taxis and auto-rickshaws. Delhi an International airport is 203km from Agra. Indian Airlines run flights daily connecting Delhi and Agra.
Rail : The nearest station is Agra cantonment. The Shatabdi Express takes 2 hrs, Taj Express 2.5 hrs, all from Delhi- are good options.
Road : A/C and non-A/C buses are available from Delhi, Jaipur and other parts of the country. Auto-rickshaws, tongas, cycle-rickshaws, and taxis are easily available to roam around inside the city.