Taj Mahal – Embodiment of Grace and Romance
Taj Mahal, the word, itself creates vibrant images in the mind of cupid struck. Structured by an Emperor for his love, the White dome burries his beloved by his side. "He" was not able to forget "her" and we are sure you would not be able to forget - "Taj Mahal." ..
Seat of the three Mughal emperors before Shah Jahan shifted India's capital permanently to Delhi, Agra today is just another provincial town nestling on the sandy western bank of river Yamuna. Plan a holiday vacation to dive into the strewned mediaeval creations dotting the green terrain.
Built by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan in the royal quarters of Agra, this colossal fort sprouts from the heart of the city. Wander around the red ramparts to see a number of exquisite buildings, including the Moti Masjid, Diwan-e-am, Diwan-e-khas and Musamman Burj.
Perched atop a rocky ridge 37 km west of Agra is Fatehpur Sikri, the first planned city in the Indo-Islamic architectural tradition. Enjoy a walk through the sprawling ramparts and you will be amazed to see history coming to life before your peeled eyes.
Around the Taj Ganj are many emporiums that display traditional handicrafts from the region such as rugs, leather goods and gem stones, though they are a little expensive this side of the town. Tourists can shop for everything from jewellery and carpets to marble with fine inlay work.
Epitomized as a symbol of eternal love, the chaste white marble mausoleum of the Taj Mahal is counted as one amongst the seven forgotten wonders of the medieval world. Millions of tourists from all pockets of the world crowd on the shifting sands of Yamuna, to behold this sheer magic created by human hands.
Built by emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is generally considered as the finest example of Mughal architecture, a style that combines elements of Persian, Indian and Islamic craftsmanship.
The tomb is set against the shimmering sands of river Yamuna and it is believed that it is this background that works for its magic of colours that, through their reflection, change the view of the Taj.The colours pink, milky white and golden - change at different hours of the day and during different seasons; portraying different moods of a woman.
Plan your holiday trip during the festive season and lose yourself in the colourful array of curious stalls that dot the lush terrain. The whole ambiance pulsates with art and craft malls, tourism marts, kite festivals and meetings of historians, architects and astrologers.