Introduction

Standing proudly on the banks of River Yamuna, with the winding river at back and lush green, landscaped gardens in front, the Taj Mahal leaves one speechless with its majestic beauty. As the bright Indian sun faded into the dark night, the Taj Mahal seems to come alive. A sunset tour is a great time to see the Taj in transformation, from the grand white monument to a shimmering mausoleum that leaves a lasting impression.

The light of the setting sun is also ideal for taking pictures. The fading light of the sun often shows the Taj Mahal at its finest, views that a skilled photographer can capture with ease. The soft glow of the setting sun lights up the white marble of the Taj Mahal in a profusion of colors, creating a vision that is quite unforgettable.

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.

Visitors wishing to take a closer look at the Taj Mahal need to take off their shoes before ascending the marble steps leading from the gardens on either side of the platform. Non-Indians are provided with covers for their shoes, if needed.

Special Attributes

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

Nuisance

Touts, Photographers

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

Lat evening tours of the Taj can be quite pleasant. However, even evening temperatures can be high for some. If needed, wear a hat or cover your head and remember to carry a bottle of water

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

Sunset tours are very popular as they present the best of photography opportunities. Tourists are advised to book these tours well in advance to avoid disappointment. Video cameras are not allowed beyond the second gate and they can be stored at the lockers available at the site.

Type of site

Monument/Mausoleum