Located in the city of Agra, 204 km south of New Dehli in the state of Uttar Pradesh the Taj Mahal is consistently voted as one of the seven wonders of the new world.

Standing before it at sunrise, its image perfectly mirrored in the watercourse, you understand why this massive mausoleum of white marble is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage building and why it is so universally admired.

Not only is the Taj Mahal an architectural wonder of perfect symmetry it’s a poignant love story. Completed in 1653 it was built by the grief-stricken Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of Mumtaz Mahal, his second wife, who died in childbirth in 1631. For more history click here, and for architectural information click here.

The Taj Mahal

The changing light reflected on the white marble gives the Taj Mahal many moods. Dawn, when there are few people, is quite special. Also sunset is an impressive time as the marble takes on a golden glow, then turns pink, red and finally blue with the changing light.

Most visit the monument for only a few hours, however if you are not pressed for time the Taj Mahal is worth an extended or second visit.

As the Taj Mahal is on everyone’s must-do list it is best to arrive early and avoid the crowds if you want to take the most popular photos. Popular is the famous photo of the Taj Mahal mirrored in the watercourse as well as the same bench seat where Princess Diana posed for her photo.

Sitting on a raised platform the Taj Mahal has four minarets and smaller domes around the large central dome. Inside are the tombs of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan, side by side.

When visiting the tomb you can also study the building close up. The detail is extraordinary with semi precious stones inlaid into the marble using a process called pietra dura. Items such as jewellery boxes and coffee tables are made for sale to tourists using the same process.

The ornamental gardens set along the watercourses complete the beautiful setting of this monument to love.

Guided Tours

If you do not wish to negotiate for a guide inside the complex a tour guide can be arranged through your hotel or a travel agency.

Tours also depart from the train station, where passengers arrive from New Dehli in the morning, and include Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. They finish about 6pm for the returning train to New Dehli.

Visitor’s Information

The Taj Mahal is open daily from 6.00am to 7.00pm Saturday to Thursday. Closed Fridays. Entrance fee is INR750 (USD19).

The main entrance is on the west side where everyone goes through security. There is a cloakroom to check in belongings for safekeeping.

Vehicles are not permitted into the immediate vicinity of the complex. The closest point is near Shahjahan Park; from there it is a short 10 minute walk or a rickshaw ride.

Getting There

• Air - Daily 40 minute flights to Agra are operated by Indian Airlines.
• Train - The Taj Express leaves New Dehli daily at 7.15am and arrives at the Agra Cantonment Station to connect with the guided tour to the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. You need to guard your possessions closely at the station, especially the New Dehli end.

Other Attractions in Agra

The red sandstone Agra Fort begun in 1565 and Fatehupur Sikri the old Mughal capital, built 40km west of Agra are both UNESCO World Heritage sites.