The Taj Mahal, an architectural masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a symbol of eternal love in Agra, India. This ivory-white marble mausoleum, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, attracts millions of visitors annually. Renowned for its stunning symmetry, intricate craftsmanship, and historical significance, the Taj Mahal is one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. This article delves into the timings, history, entry fees, imagery, construction details, and other essential information about this iconic monument.
The Taj Mahal was commissioned in 1632 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan following the death of his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who passed away during childbirth in 1631. Mumtaz Mahal, whose name translates to "Jewel of the Palace," was Shah Jahan’s favorite wife, and her death left the emperor heartbroken.
Construction began in 1632 and was completed in 1653, involving over 20,000 artisans from India, Persia, and the Ottoman Empire. Chief architect Ustad Ahmad Lahauri designed it using Mughal, Persian, and Islamic architectural styles.
Shah Jahan was later buried beside Mumtaz Mahal after his death in 1666. The total construction cost was approximately 32 million rupees.
Shah Jahan, the fifth Mughal emperor, ruled from 1628 to 1658. Known for his architectural ambition, he also built the Red Fort in Delhi and Jama Masjid in Agra. The Taj Mahal was a tribute to Mumtaz Mahal and a representation of the grandeur of the Mughal Empire.
The Taj Mahal is celebrated for its symmetrical design and intricate detailing using white Makrana marble. Notable features include:
An onion-shaped dome 73 meters high, flanked by four smaller domes and topped with a golden finial.
Four 40-meter tall minarets surrounding the tomb, slightly tilted outward for protection.
Intricate inlay work using precious stones like jasper, jade, and lapis lazuli.
Quranic verses inscribed by Amanat Khan using black marble.
Persian-style garden symbolizing paradise, with fountains and water channels.
Open from 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM (sunrise to sunset). Varies by season.
Available 5 nights/month: full moon night and 2 nights before and after. Timings: 8:30 PM to 12:30 AM.
Closed every Friday for prayers at the mosque.
Fees vary by nationality and access to the main mausoleum:
Tickets are available at counters or online. Prices may change; verify before planning.
The Taj Mahal is one of the world’s most photographed monuments.
The marble glows pink at dawn and golden at dusk.
The monument’s image reflected in the water is iconic.
The balanced architecture is ideal for wide-angle photography.
Close-ups reveal pietra dura, jali work, and calligraphy.
Photography inside the mausoleum is prohibited. Tripods require permission.
October–March offers pleasant weather. Summer and monsoon seasons are less favorable.
Agra is accessible by air, train, and road. Major trains include Gatimaan and Shatabdi Express from Delhi.
East and West gates are preferred over the crowded South gate.
No large bags, food, drones, or sharp items. Carry essentials only.
Modest clothing is advised due to the site's cultural value.
Licensed guides and audio guides are available at gates.
Shoe covers are required inside the mausoleum. ASI regularly maintains the site.
UNESCO site and former Mughal residence, 2.5 km away.
Across the Yamuna River, perfect for sunset photos.
Also called the "Baby Taj", with similar marble inlay work.
A 40 km-away abandoned Mughal city with grand architecture.
The Taj Mahal symbolizes Indian pride and love. It became a UNESCO site in 1983 and was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007. Its imagery is found in art, film, and popular culture worldwide.
The Taj Mahal in Agra, India, transcends time and borders. As a tribute to Mumtaz Mahal and a marvel of Mughal architecture, it offers a timeless experience to all who visit.
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