Taj Mahal: The Everlasting Marvel of India
The Taj Mahal is one of the famous stunning man-made wonders, not only in India but around the world. It is designated as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, popular for its spectacular ivory-white marble monument, and is an exquisite example of Mughal architecture, combining elements of Islamic, Persian and Indian styles.
Wondering what is the significance of this monument? This monument is a mausoleum located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, built by Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal.
The architectural design of this monument includes some important highlights like the white marble dome, red sandstones, complex designs in the marbles, four pillars, two mosques and a beautiful Mughal-style garden with fountains. One of the interesting facts about the tombs in the mausoleum is that both the tombs are empty at the top, the main tombs are located in the base, exactly below the replica of the tombs above. Also, it is believed that the body of Mumtaz Mahal was buried somewhere, it was only after the construction of this mausoleum that the body was buried here.
Tourists wishing to explore the important places of India should apply for the India e-Tourist Visa. But,in case you are visiting with the India e-Business Visa, and later on planning to explore the famous places of India, then the immigration authorities of India, suggest travelers to apply for the Indian Visa Online. This visa takes away the hurdles of visiting the visa office physically.
Architectural facts regarding the Taj Mahal
The construction of the Taj Mahal was started in 1632, and completed in 1648 in the main phases, however the rest of the phases of the monument like the pillars and the mosque were completed in 1653. It took around 20 years for the monument to give its final touch, which we can see today. The Taj Mahal was recognized as a World UNESCO Heritage Site in the year 1983 for its eternal unique structure.
This monument not only showcases Mughals great craftsmanship and artistic ability, but is regarded as the most remarkable symbol of love present around the world.
The complex comprises the mausoleum, two mosques, garden and a museum. The Taj Mahal has mythical geometrical designs, and consists of optical illusions. It constantly changes its color throughout the day, with the red sandstone structures surrounding the white monument, it offers a unique white radiance.
The chief material used in the building of the Taj Mahal was white marble, these white marbles were brought from the mines in Makrana in Rajasthan, India. It was brought by bullock carts and boats. The red sandstones were brought from Fatehpur Sikri and other neighboring towns. The precious stones were brought from Persia, Baghdad, China, Russia, Punjab, etc.
Besides, the symmetrical design of the Taj Mahal itself symbolizes great power, the four minarets which is built in a slanting way to avoid it falling on the mausoleum in case earthquake happens, the combining of solids and voids, and the symmetry of the complex.
The complex also features some of the fascinating calligraphic inscriptions, use of geometric and floral designs everywhere.
For the construction of the monument around 20000 skilled artisans were employed, 20000 elephants were used and took around 20 years to be completed. The cost incurred in the construction of the monument is estimated to be around 35 billion rupees in 1653.
The sole architect of this mausoleum was Ustad Ahmad Lahori. Under his instructions many skilled artisans were employed in the construction of the monument, who were from the Mughal Empire, Iran and Central Asia.
Fascinating Legend and Myths Encircling the Taj Mahal
As the most iconic structure in the world, the Taj Mahal is surrounded by some fascinating myths and legends, which makes it another reason attracting the attention of the tourists around the world. Some of the famous legends and myths of the Taj Mahal are listed below:
The Black Taj Mahal: According to legends, it is believed that Emperor Shah Jahan after the completion of the white mausoleum for his wife, thought of building a black mausoleum for himself on the opposite side of the River Yamuna and connecting the White and Black Taj Mahal by a bridge.
The Curse of the Taj Mahal: It is believed that Shah Jahan planned to build another monument in black marble, however his plans were destroyed, as his son Aurangzeb imprisoned him in the Agra Fort. Shah Jahan in grief cursed his son and the empire, which eventually in the later years led to the decline of this grand empire.
The Hands of the Workers: Another interesting myth surrounding the Taj Mahal is that Shah Jahan cut off the hands of the workers involved in the construction of the monument, so that they cannot build a similar monument. But till date, no evidence has been found that something awful happened.
Treasure within the Taj Mahal: This rumor has been encircling for centuries now that the Taj Mahal has secret hidden chambers and passages that hold treasures. According to local folklore some suggest that treasures were hidden during the construction of the monument to protect it from the invaders, others suggest that Shah Jahan himself hid treasures within the monument.
Mumtaz Mahal's Symbolic Burial: One of the interesting myths is that Mumtaz Mahal's body is not buried here, but somewhere else. Some versions claim that the body was placed in a golden casket and buried in a secret place to prevent it from decomposition.
These myths and legends add to the curiosity of the monument, but these should be considered as folklore rather than historical facts.
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Tourists planning a visit to Agra, should meet the essential entry requirements like having all the required documents based on your nationality. This article is a short guide to provide foreign tourists with all the necessary information, regarding the documents to carry and other details related to your visit to Agra.
Things to-do at the Taj Mahal
Explore the Gardens: When you enter the gate to Taj Mahal, you are welcomed by a beautiful Mughal style garden filled with fountains which adds to the aura of this monument. Enjoy a walk around to explore the garden, filled with vibrant varied species of flowers.
Visit the Main Mausoleum: Enter the main mausoleum of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, you can see the intricately designed tombs, surrounded by screens and Quranic inscriptions.
Visit the museum: It is a small museum consisting of Mughal paintings like the 17th century portrait of Shah Jahan and his wife, manuscripts, calligraphy work, government decrees, arms, utensils, etc.
Enjoy the light show in the evening: In the evening tourists can enjoy the light show which starts from 8.00 pm to 11:59 pm and is divided into 8 batches, per batch of 50 people. Tourists wanting to see the evening light show have to purchase the tickets in advance as it's limited.
Learn About the History: For history fanatics this is one of the best chances to know about the history of the Taj Mahal and its rulers. Tourists can either take guided tours, or audio guides.
Enjoy the View from the Riverbank: Tourists can head to the opposite side of the Yamuna River to enjoy the enchanting views of the Taj Mahal.
Visit Nearby Attractions: Other important historical sites to visit includes the Agra Fort (the residence of the Mughals, where Shah Jahan was imprisoned), Itmad-ud-Daulahs Tomb (father of Nur Jahans tomb who was Jahangirs wife), Mehtab Bagh (referred to as Moonlight Garden), these places offer spectacular views of the Taj Mahal.
Shopping: Tourists planning to take back home some souvenirs can engage in shopping activities near the Taj Mahal, located just outside the security check gate. You can buy beautiful small replicas of the Taj Mahal, traditional jewelleries, Indian textiles, marble carvings, paintings, wooden items, etc.
Enjoy Local Cuisine: If you have fallen in love with the history of the Mughals, then you should definitely try the delicious Mughal cuisines like biryani, korma, kebabs, shahi paneer, rogan-josh, etc.
Attend Cultural Performances: Usually, many cultural events take place near the vicinity of the Taj Mahal, which include traditional music and dance or exhibitions showcasing local arts and crafts.
It is important to follow the rules and regulations of the Taj Mahal like not to take photos inside the mausoleum, opening of your shoes or either wear the shoe covered polythenes, which are provided when collecting the ticket.
What is the most favorable month to visit the Taj Mahal? What are its timings?
The best month to visit the Taj Mahal is from October to February, comprising the autumn and winter season, when the weather is favorable and the temperature is around 9 degree to 32 degree Celsius. Visiting during the summer that is from April to June is not recommended as it becomes impossible to explore with the extreme sun rays.
Best day to visit is from Monday to Thursday, it is less crowded on these days. Also,it is recommended to book your tickets online to avoid the queues,and enter through the South or East Gate as they are less crowded than the West Gate.
Taj Mahal Timings:
- Opening time of Taj Mahal: 6.00 am
- Closing time of Taj Mahal: 7.00 pm
- Closing day: Friday, only Muslims allowed who come to pray
- Museum opening and closing time: 10.00 am to 5.00 pm
Taj Mahal Night View Timings:
- Night view timings: 8.30 pm to 12.30 am
- People allowed: 8 batches, 50 people in each 8 batch
- Per batch timing to enjoy night viewing of the Taj Mahal: 30 minutes for each batch
- Best stage for Taj Mahal night viewing: Shilpgram center located in the complex
Full Moon Night View Days of the Taj Mahal:
- Total number of days: 5 days in a Month
- On a Full-Moon Night: 1 Day
- Two nights after Full-Moon Night: 2 Days
- Two nights before the full moon: 2 Days
What are the different ways to reach the Taj Mahal in Agra?
By train: Tourists planning to come by train, the Agra Cantt railway station is the closest one. It is situated around 6 km away from the Taj Mahal, from here tourists can choose to take a local taxi or auto-rickshaw. The auto fare is approximately around INR 100.
By air: The Agra airport is the closest one, situated around 9 km away. Travelers can hire a local taxi to visit the Taj Mahal and other important places or take an auto-rickshaw. However, for international tourists the closest international airport is IGI airport, Delhi which is 230 km away from Agra. Tourists can take a flight to Agra airport or book a taxi from IGI Airport to Agra.
By bus: State and private buses are easily available from Delhi to Agra. From the bus stand, travelers can take a local taxi or auto-rickshaw, whichever is convenient according to you.
By cab/taxi: If you are hiring a cab from Delhi to Agra, the fastest route is Yamuna Expressway, which will let you reach Agra in 3-4 hours.
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The government of India allows foreign travelers to enter India through authorized immigration seaports and airports. Here is a list of the seaports through which the Cruise Ship passengers can travel to India, all the details have been covered in this article.
Citizens of many countries including United States, France, Denmark, Germany, Spain, Italy are eligible for India e-Visa(Indian Visa Online). You can apply for the Indian e-Visa Online Application right here.