Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is listed as one of the top five landmarks in the world to visit in 2016, by Trip Advisor. It is “Simply the greatest architectural achievement on earth, not to mention a testament to love. You haven’t lived until you’ve visited, so…” Don’t only put it on your bucket list plan to visit it on your next trip to Europe.

It is located in the Indian city of Agra approximately 204km from the capital Delhi. If you don’t know the story of the Tal Mahal, it was built by the Emperor Shah Jahan in loving memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who he gave the title of the ‘Jewel of the Palace’ In the year 1631, when Mumtaz Mahal was giving birth to their 14th child, she died due to some complications.

While Mumtaz was on her deathbed, Shah Jahan promised her that he would never remarry and will build the richest mausoleum over her grave. It is said that Shah Jahan was so heartbroken after her death that he ordered the court into mourning for two years. Sometime after her death, Shah Jahan undertook the task of erecting the world’s most beautiful monument in the memory of his beloved. It took 22 years and the labor of 22,000 workers and 1,000 elephants to construct the monument.

When Shah Jahan died in 1666, his body was placed in a tomb next to the tomb of Mumtaz Mahal. This magnificent monument came to be known as “Taj Mahal” and now counts amongst the Seven Wonders of the World. This is the true story of the Taj Mahal of India, which has mesmerized many people with its bewitching beauty.

The mausoleum itself was constructed of white marble inlaid with semi-precious stones (including jade, crystal, lapis lazuli, amethyst and turquoise) forming intricate designs in a technique known as pietra dura. Its central dome reached a height of 240 feet (73 meters) and was surrounded by four smaller domes; four slender towers, or minarets, stood at the corners. The reflection of the Taj Mahal in the long pool leading up to the Red Sandstone Gate to the mausoleum makes for a stunning photograph.

TIPS Visit the Taj Mahal as a stopover on the way to Europe. Allow one full day to visit the site. Join an organised day tour from Delhi or arrange a private tour with your own driver/guide. A Private Tour: Day Trip to Agra from Delhi including Taj Mahal and Agra Fort will cost approximately $122 per person Stay in New Delhi in a 5 star hotel such as the Leela Palace with your special someone … We stayed in a deluxe room including breakfast. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner at Le Cirque Signature restaurant, try the Pate Plate for starters it is sooo good.

If you want some insider info about going to the Taj Mahal contact me stephen@itravel-au.com