The city of Agra is home to one of the most renowned landmarks in India, the Taj Mahal. Built in the 17th century by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is considered one of the greatest examples of Mughal architecture and a masterpiece of Indian art.
Over 20,000 artisans and workers were engaged in the construction of the Taj Mahal, which started in 1632 and lasted for more than two decades before completion. The monument is made of white marble and features intricate carvings, calligraphy, and geometric designs. The main building is flanked by four minarets, each over 40 meters in height.
Visitors to the Taj Mahal can appreciate its architectural beauty and learn about its rich history. The monument is open to visitors every day except Fridays, and early morning visits are highly recommended to avoid the crowds and enjoy the serene beauty of the monument.
Inside the Taj Mahal, visitors can see the intricate marble carvings, including the famous pietra dura work that features precious and semi-precious stones. The tomb of Mumtaz Mahal is located in the center of the main building, while the tomb of Shah Jahan is located next to it.
Taj Mahal Agra India |
In addition to the main building, the Taj Mahal complex also includes beautiful gardens, reflecting pools, and a mosque. Visitors can stroll through the lush gardens and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the surrounding area.
The Taj Mahal is not only a stunning example of architecture but also a symbol of love and devotion. The story of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal's love has become legendary and has made the Taj Mahal one of the world's most iconic landmarks. It is a testament to the beauty and power of love that has inspired visitors from all over the world for centuries.
Shahjahan or Mumtaz Love Story
Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal's love story is one of the most romantic tales in Indian history. Shah Jahan, the Mughal emperor, fell in love with Mumtaz Mahal, who was his third wife, at first sight. Mumtaz Mahal was known for her beauty, charm, and intelligence. They married in 1612 when Shah Jahan was 21, and Mumtaz Mahal was 19.
Mumtaz Mahal became Shah Jahan's favorite wife, and they had a deep and intense love for each other. She was his confidante, advisor, and constant companion. Mumtaz Mahal accompanied Shah Jahan on his military campaigns, and she was with him when she died in 1631 while giving birth to their 14th child.
Shah Jahan was devastated by the loss of Mumtaz Mahal and decided to build a magnificent monument in her memory. He commissioned the construction of the Taj Mahal, which became a symbol of love and devotion. Shah Jahan spared no expense in building the Taj Mahal, and it is said that it took over 20 years and 20,000 workers to complete the monument.
The Taj Mahal is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and is regarded as a masterpiece of Mughal architecture. It is made of white marble and features intricate carvings, calligraphy, and geometric designs. Four minarets surround the monument, while inside the primary structure, visitors can observe the tomb of Mumtaz Mahal
Shah Jahan's love for Mumtaz Mahal is immortalized in the Taj Mahal, which has become a symbol of love and devotion. The monument attracts millions of visitors every year, and it is considered one of the most romantic destinations in the world. The story of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal's love has become a legend, and their love story continues to inspire people around the world.
Taj Mahal Agra India |
Best Time to Visit Taj Mahal
The best time to visit the Taj Mahal is during the winter season, from November to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant. During this time, the temperature ranges between 5°C to 25°C, making it comfortable for visitors to explore the monument and its surroundings. The cool and dry weather also ensures that the air quality is better, allowing for better visibility of the Taj Mahal's intricate details and fine artistry.
Visiting during the monsoon season, from July to September, should be avoided as heavy rainfall can disrupt travel plans and make the surroundings muddy and slippery. The summer season, from April to June, can be quite hot, with temperatures rising above 40°C, making it uncomfortable for visitors to explore the monument.
Visiting the Taj Mahal during the winter season is the best option as it provides a comfortable and enjoyable experience for tourists.
Taj Mahal Ticket Price
The ticket price for visiting the Taj Mahal varies depending on the nationality of the visitor. For Indian citizens, the ticket price is INR 50. For foreign nationals, the ticket price is INR 1100. Below the age of 15 years children can enter for free.
In addition to the regular entry fee, visitors can also choose to purchase tickets for specific areas within the monument, such as the main mausoleum and the mosque. These tickets are priced at INR 200 for Indian citizens and INR 600 for foreign nationals. Visitors can also opt for a composite ticket that includes entry to other nearby attractions such as Agra Fort, Mehtab Bagh, and the Tomb of Akbar the Great. The composite ticket is priced at INR 250 for Indian citizens and INR 1100 for foreign nationals.
Taj Mahal Agra India |
How to Reach Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is located in Agra, India, and can be reached by various modes of transportation:
By air: The nearest airport is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, which is located around 210 km away from Agra. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or a bus to reach Agra.
By train: Agra is well-connected by train, with daily trains from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. The Agra Cantt railway station is the main railway station in Agra, and it is located about 6 km away from the Taj Mahal. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are available at the railway station for visitors to reach the monument.
By road: Agra is well-connected by road, and visitors can reach the Taj Mahal by taking a taxi or a bus from nearby cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Lucknow. The Yamuna Expressway, a six-lane highway, connects Agra to Delhi and is a popular route for visitors.
Once visitors reach Agra, they can reach the Taj Mahal by taking a taxi or an auto-rickshaw from their point of arrival.
In conclusion, the Taj Mahal is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to India. It is a remarkable feat of engineering and design that serves as a symbol of love and devotion. The intricate marble carvings, serene gardens, and the story behind the monument make it an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.