About Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is one of the most iconic and renowned monuments in the world. It is located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India, and is considered a masterpiece of Mughal architecture. Here are some key facts about the Taj Mahal:
Taj Mahal History and Purpose
The Taj Mahal was built between 1632 and 1653 by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died during childbirth. It serves as a mausoleum where the tomb of Mumtaz Mahal is located, and it also houses the tomb of Shah Jahan himself.
Architectural Style
The Taj Mahal is an excellent example of Mughal architecture, which is a blend of Indian, Persian, and Islamic styles. The structure is mainly made of white marble adorned with intricate carvings, calligraphy, and precious gemstones.
Location
The Taj Mahal is situated on the right bank of the Yamuna River in Agra, India. It stands in the heart of a vast garden, known as the Charbagh, which is divided into four quadrants.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Taj Mahal was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 due to its cultural significance and architectural brilliance. It is also considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Symbol of Love
The Taj Mahal is often regarded as a symbol of love and is frequently associated with the everlasting love between Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal. The construction of this magnificent monument was Shah Jahan’s way of expressing his grief and love for his departed wife.
Unique Features
The Taj Mahal is famous for its symmetric design, with the main structure flanked by four minarets at each corner. The central dome is one of its most striking features and is often referred to as the “onion dome.”
Changing Colors
The color of the Taj Mahal appears to change depending on the time of day and lighting conditions. It looks milky white in the morning, golden in the evening, and silvery under the moonlight.
Visitors
The Taj Mahal attracts millions of visitors from all over the world every year. It is open to tourists, though conservation efforts are in place to protect the monument from pollution and environmental damage.
Taj Mahal Ticket
To visit the Taj Mahal in Agra, India, you can follow these steps to get tickets:
- Online Booking: The easiest and most convenient way to purchase tickets is through the official website of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Visit the official website, search for the Taj Mahal ticket booking section, and follow the instructions to book your tickets online. The website may have options for both Indian and foreign visitors, and prices might vary accordingly.
- Ticket Counters: If you prefer to purchase tickets in person, you can do so at the ticket counters located near the Taj Mahal entrance. There are specific queues for Indian and foreign visitors. Please note that during peak seasons, there might be long queues, so it’s advisable to book in advance.
- Authorized Ticketing Agencies: There might be authorized ticketing agencies or tour operators that offer ticket booking services for the Taj Mahal. Make sure to verify their legitimacy before making any transactions.
Remember, the Taj Mahal is a popular tourist destination, so it’s a good idea to plan your visit in advance, especially during peak seasons. Also, be mindful of the rules and regulations set by the authorities to preserve this iconic monument.
Things to do in Taj Mahal
Visiting the Taj Mahal is a remarkable experience, and there are several things you can do to make the most of your trip. Here are some activities and tips for your visit to the Taj Mahal:
1. Explore the Taj Mahal Complex
Take your time to explore the entire complex, which includes the main mausoleum, the gardens, the reflecting pool, and the various structures surrounding the Taj Mahal. The symmetry and beauty of the architecture are truly captivating.
2. Observe the Changing Colors
If possible, try to visit the Taj Mahal at different times of the day to witness the changing colors of the monument. The play of light at sunrise, sunset, and under the moonlight adds to the enchantment of the place.
3. Sunrise or Sunset Viewing
Many visitors prefer to witness the Taj Mahal during sunrise or sunset, as the light creates a magical ambiance. The sight of the sun casting its rays on the marble dome is truly breathtaking.
4. Photography
The Taj Mahal offers fantastic opportunities for photography. Capture the intricate details, reflections in the water, and the overall grandeur of the monument.
5. Visit the Main Mausoleum
While you can’t enter the main burial chamber where the tombs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal are located (it’s closed to the public), you can still explore the beautiful interior of the main mausoleum, featuring stunning marble work and intricate inlays.
6. Enjoy the Gardens
The vast Charbagh garden surrounding the Taj Mahal is a sight to behold. Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this Mughal-style garden.
7. Visit the Taj Museum
Near the entrance, there’s a museum that provides more information about the history, architecture, and artifacts related to the Taj Mahal. It’s worth a visit to deepen your understanding of the monument.
8. Souvenir Shopping
There are shops and stalls outside the Taj Mahal complex where you can buy souvenirs, handicrafts, and marble replicas of the monument.
9. Observe Calligraphy and Gemstone Inlays
Pay attention to the intricate calligraphy on the walls, which are verses from the Quran, and the intricate gemstone inlays on the marble surface, a characteristic feature of Mughal art.
10. Respect the Rules
The Taj Mahal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and there are rules and guidelines in place to preserve its beauty and historical significance. Follow instructions, avoid touching the walls, and respect the sanctity of the place.
Remember to check the latest entry requirements, ticketing information, and other regulations before your visit to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience at the Taj Mahal.
Taj Mahal Tour
Let’s start our tour:
- Exterior View: As we approach the Taj Mahal, you’ll be amazed by the grandeur of the structure. The main entrance is through the imposing red sandstone gateway, known as the “Darwaza-i-Rauza,” which frames the Taj Mahal perfectly.
- Garden: Upon entering, we’ll find ourselves in the “Charbagh” garden, a classical Persian-style garden with perfectly symmetrical pathways and lush green lawns. The pathways divide the garden into four quadrants, which represent the four rivers of paradise described in Islamic tradition.
- Central Water Channel: At the end of the garden, there’s a central water channel that reflects the image of the Taj Mahal, creating a stunning mirror effect, especially during sunrise and sunset.
- Main Mausoleum: Walking towards the main mausoleum, we’ll come across a raised marble platform on which the Taj Mahal is built. It consists of a large central dome and four smaller domes surrounding it, all covered in intricate marble inlays.
- Marble Inlay Work: As we get closer, you’ll be able to see the exquisite details of the marble inlay work, featuring intricate floral patterns and calligraphy from the Quran, made of precious and semi-precious stones.
- Interior: While the interior is not open to the public to preserve the monument, we can still appreciate the marble screens (jalis) that surround the cenotaphs of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan in the main chamber.
- Minarets: Flanking the main mausoleum are four elegant minarets, each standing at around 40 meters (131 feet) tall. These minarets are slightly tilted outward, designed to prevent them from falling onto the main tomb in case of an earthquake.
- Viewpoints: We can take a walk around the Taj Mahal to explore it from different angles and admire its beauty from all sides.
- History and Architecture: Throughout the tour, we’ll delve into the history and architectural significance of the Taj Mahal, learning about the cultural influences that went into its construction.
Remember, the Taj Mahal is not just a beautiful monument, but also a symbol of eternal love. Its exquisite craftsmanship and historical importance make it a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to India.
Taj Mahal Virtual Tour
For a virtual tour of the Taj Mahal, you can try using online platforms that offer 360-degree tours of famous landmarks.
When taking a virtual tour, you can usually use your mouse or touchpad to navigate and explore different parts of the Taj Mahal as if you were there in person. It’s a fantastic way to experience the beauty and grandeur of this historic monument from the comfort of your home.
Taj Mahal travel package
FAQs on Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is a magnificent white marble mausoleum located in Agra, India. It was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died during childbirth. The Taj Mahal serves as the final resting place for Mumtaz Mahal and also houses the tomb of Shah Jahan himself.
Construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1632 and was completed in 1653. It took approximately 21 years to finish the monument, and it involved the efforts of thousands of skilled artisans and laborers.
The Taj Mahal was built by Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, to honor her memory and express his love and grief. Mumtaz Mahal was Shah Jahan’s favorite wife, and her death deeply affected him.
The Taj Mahal is a stunning example of Mughal architecture, which is a fusion of Indian, Persian, and Islamic architectural styles. The monument’s symmetrical design, delicate marble inlays, and intricate calligraphy are some of the characteristic features of Mughal art and architecture.
Yes, the Taj Mahal was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. It is recognized for its cultural significance and its outstanding representation of Mughal architecture.
No, the main burial chamber inside the Taj Mahal, where the tombs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal are located, is not open to the public. Visitors can explore the outer areas of the main mausoleum and enjoy its impressive architecture and interior decorations from a distance.
The best times to visit the Taj Mahal are during sunrise and sunset when the light creates a captivating atmosphere, changing the colors of the marble. It’s also a good idea to visit during the cooler months (October to March) to avoid the extreme heat of the Indian summer.
Are there any entry fees to visit the Taj Mahal?
Yes, visitors are allowed to take photographs of the exterior and the gardens of the Taj Mahal. However, photography is not permitted inside the main mausoleum.
Yes, there are rules and regulations in place to protect the monument and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. Some common rules include not touching the marble surfaces, not bringing large bags or food items inside, and not carrying tripods for photography.