Taj Mahal, Agra: Complete Travel Guide to India’s Iconic Monument of Love

AbouTravel.
Sep 12, 2022
3 min read

Updated: 5 days ago

The Taj Mahal is one of the most famous landmarks in the world and a must-see destination in India. Built as a symbol of eternal love, this breathtaking white-marble mausoleum attracts millions of visitors each year and remains one of the greatest architectural achievements in human history.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Taj Mahal is considered the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the most admired masterpieces of global architectural heritage. It blends Persian, Islamic, and Indian architectural styles, resulting in a harmonious and perfectly balanced design.

It is also recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

History of the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal was commissioned by the fifth Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1631 while giving birth to their 14th child.

Devastated by her death, the emperor ordered the construction of a monument that would reflect their love and her beauty.

Construction period: 1631–1653
Time to complete: Approximately 22 years
Architectural style: Indo-Islamic, with Persian and Indian influences

More than 20,000 artisans and craftsmen worked on the Taj Mahal, using materials sourced from across Asia.

Location and Setting

The Taj Mahal is located in the historic city of Agra, in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.

Situated on the southern bank of the Yamuna River
Part of a larger complex including gardens, mosques, and guest houses
Best viewed at sunrise and sunset, when the marble reflects changing colors

Architecture and Design

The Taj Mahal is renowned for its perfect symmetry, harmonious proportions, and intricate decorative details, including calligraphy, floral motifs, and semi-precious stone inlays. It is widely regarded as the greatest architectural achievement of Indo-Islamic architecture.

Its striking exterior is crafted from ivory-white marble, which changes color throughout the day depending on the light, while the interior structure incorporates red sandstone and brick, providing strength beneath its delicate beauty.

Inside the main chamber of the Taj Mahal lie the symbolic (false) sarcophagi of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, which visitors can see. The actual tombs are located in a lower, sealed chamber directly beneath, in keeping with Islamic burial traditions.

Visiting the Taj Mahal – Practical Information

Opening Hours

Open daily from sunrise to sunset
Closed on Fridays (open only for prayers)

Best Time to Visit

October to March: Best weather for sightseeing
Early morning: Fewer crowds and magical light for photography
Full moon nights: Limited night viewing tickets available

Ticket Tips

Buy tickets online in advance to avoid queues
Separate pricing for domestic and international visitors
Shoe covers or barefoot entry required inside the mausoleum

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Tips for Visiting the Taj Mahal

Arrive early to avoid crowds and heat
Bring minimal belongings (security is strict)
Hire a licensed guide for historical insight
Respect the site — it is both a monument and a mausoleum
Stay nearby to experience sunrise without rushing

Agra Fort – A Must-See Nearby Attraction

Just 2.5 kilometers from the Taj Mahal stands the impressive Agra Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and an essential stop when visiting the city.

Agra Fort played a crucial role in Mughal history. This massive red sandstone fort served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors until 1638, when the capital was moved from Agra to the Red Fort in Delhi.

From the fort’s ramparts, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Taj Mahal. Shah Jahan spent his final years imprisoned here by his son, gazing at the monument built for Mumtaz Mahal — a deeply moving chapter in Mughal history.