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Taj Mahal
India
Visit Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, stands as a monumental testament to love and architectural grandeur. This iconic symbol of India's rich history is not just a breathtaking sight but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts millions of visitors from around the globe each year. Built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is celebrated universally as a jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage.
Visiting the Taj Mahal is like stepping into a page from a fairy tale. The mausoleum is constructed entirely of white marble that seems to change color with the shifting arc of the sun, glowing warmly at dawn, milky white in the afternoon, and golden at sunset. This changing hue, combined with the intricate workmanship of the marble inlays, featuring precious and semi-precious stones, captivates the eye and soothes the spirit. The complex is impeccably maintained, featuring lush gardens, reflective pools, and impressive gateways, which enhance the serene and solemn atmosphere of the site.
A trip to the Taj Mahal is also an immersion into the architectural history of India's Mughal era. The complex includes several other beautiful buildings, including a mosque and a guest house, all of which exemplify the era's style and the skill of its artisans. Visitors are often struck by the perfect symmetry of the structures, the detailed calligraphy encircling the archways, and the overall sense of peace that the site exudes. Whether you're an avid historian, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a lover of beautiful places, the Taj Mahal is a compelling destination that promises a deeply moving and enriching experience.
Taj Mahal Monthly Weather Conditions
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DAYS OF PRECIP.
January
46°F
68°F
5
February
50°F
72°F
5
March
57°F
86°F
5
April
64°F
95°F
5
May
68°F
104°F
5
June
77°F
104°F
7
July
79°F
95°F
10
August
79°F
95°F
7
September
73°F
91°F
7
October
64°F
86°F
5
November
54°F
77°F
5
December
50°F
72°F
2
Need to Know Before You Go To Taj Mahal
Nickname:
Crown of the Palace
Primary Language:
Hindi
Time Zone:
Asia/Kolkata
Current Time:
Electric Plug Type:
Type C, Type D
Annual Visitors:
7-8 million
Primary Export:
Tourism
Busiest Travel Months:
November, February, December
Quietest Travel Months:
May, June, September
Find your Next Adventure in Taj Mahal
Explore Taj Mahal
Iconic Landmarks
Taj Mahal - Undoubtedly the most iconic landmark, the Taj Mahal is a stunning white marble mausoleum built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and intricate craftsmanship.
The fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site and contains several beautiful structures including Jahangir Palace and Khas Mahal.
Fatehpur Sikri - Located about 40 kilometers from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is a small city founded by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century. It served as the capital of the Mughal Empire for some years before being abandoned. The city is known for its well-preserved structures made of red sandstone, including the Buland Darwaza, Panch Mahal, and the Tomb of Salim Chishti.
Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb - Often referred to as the "Baby Taj," this mausoleum predates the Taj Mahal and is considered to have been a draft of the Taj Mahal. It was built by Nur Jahan, the wife of Jahangir, for her father Mirza Ghiyas Beg. The tomb is known for its detailed marble lattice screens and fine Pietra dura inlay work.
Mehtab Bagh - Located directly opposite the Taj Mahal, across the Yamuna River, Mehtab Bagh is a charbagh complex that was originally built by Emperor Babur. It is an ideal spot for viewing the Taj Mahal, especially at sunset or sunrise, offering a spectacular photographic opportunity with its reflective pool.
Akbar's Tomb, Sikandra - Situated in Sikandra, on the outskirts of Agra, this is the tomb of Emperor Akbar. The tomb's architecture is a unique blend of Hindu, Christian, Islamic, Buddhist, and Jain motifs, reflecting the syncretic philosophy of Akbar known as Din-i Ilahi.
These landmarks not only highlight the architectural brilliance of the Mughal era but also offer a deep dive into the history and culture of the time.
Cultural Experiences
Sunrise Tour of the Taj Mahal - Witnessing the Taj Mahal at sunrise is a breathtaking experience. The early morning light bathes the white marble in hues of pink and golden, creating a magical atmosphere. This is also a great time to avoid the crowds and experience the serene beauty of the monument in relative peace.
Exploring its palaces, mosques, and halls gives a deeper insight into the life of the Mughal royal family.
Explore the Mughal Heritage Walk - This is a guided walk that explores the less-visited monuments around the Taj Mahal, including several hidden gems like the Gyarah Sidi, Humayun’s Mosque, and the Mehtab Bagh, which offers a stunning rear view of the Taj Mahal across the river Yamuna.
Visit Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb - Often referred to as the "Baby Taj," this exquisite tomb predates the Taj Mahal and is said to have inspired its design. It’s a smaller, though no less beautiful, example of Mughal architecture set in a large cruciform garden crisscrossed by water courses and walkways.
Experience Local Cuisine - Agra's cuisine is a delightful experience for food lovers, offering a mix of Mughal and North Indian flavors. Sampling local specialties such as Petha (a sweet made from pumpkin), Bedai (a spicy snack), and Mughlai dishes at local eateries provides a taste of the region's culinary heritage.
Shopping at Kinari Bazaar - For a local shopping experience, head to Kinari Bazaar. It's a bustling market where you can find everything from fabrics, jewelry, and footwear to marble work and souvenirs. Bargaining is part of the experience, and it's a great place to pick up mementos of your visit.
These experiences provide a deeper understanding of the history, architecture, and culture surrounding the Taj Mahal, making your visit to Agra truly memorable.
Outdoor Adventures
Yamuna River Boat Ride - Enjoy a different perspective of the Taj Mahal with a boat ride on the Yamuna River, especially enchanting during sunrise or sunset. This offers a unique view and great photo opportunities of the monument's reflection on the water.
Mehtab Bagh Visit - Located directly across the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal, Mehtab Bagh is a charbagh complex that aligns symmetrically with the Taj Mahal. It offers spectacular views and a quieter spot for picnicking and leisurely walks, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset.
Cycling Tour of Agra - Participate in a guided cycling tour around Agra. This not only includes some lesser-known historical sites but also gives you a glimpse of local life around the city. It’s a healthy and eco-friendly way to explore the area.
Wildlife SOS - Elephant Conservation and Care Center - A short drive from Agra, this sanctuary provides a safe haven for rescued elephants. Visitors can learn about the conservation efforts and interact with the elephants, offering a rewarding experience for wildlife enthusiasts.
Bird Watching at Keoladeo National Park - Although a bit farther (about a 1-hour drive from Agra), this world-famous bird sanctuary in Bharatpur is worth a visit, especially for bird watchers. The park is home to over 350 species of birds and is a beautiful spot for walking and cycling tours.
Visit to Chambal Safari - The Chambal River Safari offers a thrilling experience near Agra. It’s an opportunity to explore the rich biodiversity of the Chambal Sanctuary with possible sightings of the Ganges River dolphin, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. This area is less touched by tourism and offers a peaceful retreat into nature.
These activities provide a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion suitable for enhancing your visit to the Taj Mahal and the surrounding regions of Uttar Pradesh.
Off the Beaten Path
Mehtab Bagh for Sunset or Moonlight Viewing:
Mehtab Bagh is a Mughal garden located directly across the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal. It offers a stunning and less crowded view of the monument, especially at sunset or during full moon nights. The reflection of the Taj Mahal in the waters of the river and the gardens provides a serene and picturesque setting.
Explore the Rural Villages:
Take a guided tour to the nearby rural villages to see the local way of life. Kachhpura village, for example, offers a Heritage Walk conducted by local youths as part of a community development project. You can interact with the villagers, learn about their crafts, and enjoy traditional performances.
Visit the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah:
Often referred to as the "Baby Taj," this mausoleum predates the Taj Mahal and is considered to be a draft of the famous monument. It’s less crowded and provides a more intimate experience while still showcasing exquisite Mughal architecture.
Discover the Chini ka Rauza:
This funerary monument of Allama Afzal Khan Mullah, a scholar and poet who served as the Prime Minister of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, is known for its Persian influenced architecture and glazed tile work. It’s often overlooked by tourists and offers a peaceful retreat.
Bird Watching at Keetham Lake:
Also known as Sur Sarovar, Keetham Lake is located about 20 kilometers from Agra and is a haven for bird watchers. The lake is a part of the Surdas Reserved Forest and is home to more than 100 species of birds. It’s a great spot for nature lovers and those looking to escape the city’s hustle.
Attend a Local Festival:
If your visit coincides with a local festival, it’s a wonderful opportunity to experience Indian culture firsthand. Festivals like Taj Mahotsav, which is a 10-day event held in February, showcases arts, crafts, culture, cuisine, dance, and music of the region.
Taj Mahal Fun Facts
The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India, is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also one of the most iconic symbols of love and architectural beauty in the world. Here are the top 10 fun facts about the Taj Mahal:
- Symbol of Love: The Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died during childbirth. It is considered the ultimate symbol of love.
- Construction Time: The construction of the Taj Mahal began around 1632 and was completed in 1653, taking over 20 years to complete with the help of an estimated 20,000 workers.
- Architectural Style: The Taj Mahal is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, combining elements from Islamic, Persian, Ottoman Turkish, and Indian architectural styles.
- Changing Colors: The Taj Mahal is known for changing its color depending on the time of day. It can appear to be pinkish in the morning, milky white in the evening, and golden when the moon shines.
- Precious Stones: The white marble of the Taj Mahal is inlaid with 28 different types of precious and semi-precious stones brought from various parts of India and as far away as Tibet and China.
- Calligraphy and Art: The walls of the Taj Mahal are adorned with exquisite calligraphy of Persian poems and intricate floral artworks, which include inlay work using precious stones.
- Optical Illusion: The four minarets surrounding the Taj Mahal were constructed slightly outward from the plinth to create an optical illusion. From afar, they appear straight, but in the event of a collapse (such as an earthquake), they would fall away from the main structure.
- Reflection Pool: The reflecting pool in front of the Taj Mahal was designed to reflect the image of the mausoleum. This feature is a classic example of the use of water in Islamic gardens.
- Protected Site: To protect the Taj Mahal from environmental pollution, no motor vehicles are allowed within 500 meters of the complex. Tourists must either walk from parking areas or catch an electric bus.
- Visitor's Footwear: Visitors are required to cover their shoes with a special shoe cover before entering the Taj Mahal, to protect the marble from wear and tear.
The Taj Mahal not only remains a testament to the artistic and scientific accomplishments of a bygone era but also continues to inspire countless visitors from all over the world.
Featured Picture Gallery
View the Taj Mahal from Afar
Walk Through the Mughal Garden While Visiting the Taj Mahal
Gaze at the White Marble that the Taj Mahal is Made Out Of
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