Taj Mahal, India

DAILY TRAVEL INSPIRATION: Taj Mahal

One of the new seven wonders of the world is the Taj Mahal in Agra, India. Building started in 1631 as a monument to Shah Jahan’s favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, and he was eventually buried inside the mausoleum with her. The Taj Mahal has been carefully preserved and restored, and looks as impressive now as when it was first built.

Carved out of glistening white marble and inlaid with semi-precious stones, the Taj Mahal is just as stunning close up as from a distance. Wander through the beautiful ornamental gardens to appreciate the symmetry of the building, with its impressive central dome and surrounding minarets. Craftsmen from around the world were brought to India to complete the complex marble screens, carve passages from the Quran in the finest calligraphy and assemble “pietra dura” mosaic motifs from intricately cut pieces of rare stones.

Visit first thing to avoid the worst crowds and see the sun illuminating the building as it rises. If you can, book your trip to Agra to coincide with a full moon. A viewing platform is open at night to see the Taj Mahal by moonlight, although a similar view can be found from nearby hotels and restaurants as well.

Read more on Taj Mahal below with flight options, current weather, maps, and activities to try while you are there.

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