Introduction

One of the most photographed and recognizable monuments in the world, the Taj Mahal is a beautiful marble structure that enthralls visitors with its enduring beauty. Beautiful as it is, to see the Taj Mahal in the light of the full moon is an unforgettable experience. The cool white light of the moon brings this mausoleum alive. The Taj seems to shimmer and appear almost translucent. Seeing it in moonlight, it is impossible to believe that such ethereal beauty has actually been captured and created on earth.

Commissioned by Shah Jahan, the fifth Mughal emperor, as a mausoleum for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, it took nearly 20 years to complete construction. A fusion of Central Asian, Persian and Islamic architecture, the Taj Mahal is a testimony to the finest architects of the era. The work of the greatest masters such as Ustad Isa and Ismail Afandi from Turkey, Qasim Khan from Lahore, Chiranji Lal from Delhi, Amanat Khan from Persia and Amir Ali from Baluchistan is evident in the enduring beauty of this mausoleum.

Each of the Taj’s four entrances offer a unique view. However, the South Gate is very popular as it offers an enchanting view of the Taj, set at the far end from manicured, green lawns and a cool waterway that flows through the middle. The first glimpse of the white structure and its shimmering reflection on the cool waters of the canal is enough to leave anyone speechless.

The Persian-style gardens are divided into four quadrants by waterways, which converge at a central marble tank. The mausoleum in itself stands majestically atop a square marble platform. On each of its four corners, white minarets raise into the sky. It is said that these minarets are not perpendicular to the platform, but are slightly tilted so as to prevent any damage to the Taj itself in case of an earthquake.

There is just one entrance that leads visitors to inner sanctum, where the Emperor Shah Jahan and his wife Mumtaz Mahal are laid to rest.. While the actual tombs are on a lower level and are closed to the public, these cenotaphs reflect their respective placement on the upper level.

Keeping with the symmetrical design, the Taj Mahal has two buildings on its either side – one is a mosque and the other is presumed to be a restroom built by the emperor for travelers visiting the Taj Mahal. The mosque is still used for prayers, especially for Friday Namaz and during the month of Ramzaan, when Taj is closed for tourists.

Bathed in moonlight, the Taj Mahal on full moon nights has a magical effect. Also, as the night tours are limited to just eight groups of just 50 people each (only one group is allowed at a time), visitors can really enjoy and marvel at the beauty of the Taj without a hundred other tourists milling about.

Special Attributes

A UNESCO World Heritage Site; One of the New Seven Wonders of the World

Nuisance

None, moonlit tours of the Taj Mahal are probably the most peaceful time to visit.

Dressing restrictions

Like most religious places in the country, visitors to the Taj are advised to dress conservatively. Remember, you will have to remove all footwear if you wish to explore the main platform. Special counters have been provided to store these.

Connectivity

Tongas, Buses, Auto Rickshaws, Taxis, Cycle Rickshaws

Enjoyed by

All

Exposure

A moonlit tour of the Taj Mahal is one of the most enchanting natural light experiences.

Avoidable Season

April, May, June, July, August, September

Facilities

Lockers are available for storing items not allowed inside.

Things Not Allowed

Tripod and Camera Stands, Professional Movie Cameras with more than 8mm lens, Eatables, Electronic Equipment, Mobile Phones, Cigarettes, Lighters, Knives and any sharp objects, Video cameras are not allowed beyond the second gate. Mobile phone use within the Taj complex is a criminal offense.

Tip

Tickets for night tours have to be booked in advance. They go on sale a day before at the Archaeological Survey of India between 10am to 6pm. Tourists are taken to the Taj as escorted groups and each tour lasts for 30 minutes. These tours are organized for five days of each lunar cycle: on full moon night and two days before and after it.

Type of site

Monument/Mausoleum