The tomb is the centerpiece of a 17-hectare (42-acre) complex, which includes a mosque and a guest house, and is set in formal gardens bounded on three sides by a crenelated wall.

Why is the Taj Mahal so special?

The Taj Mahal is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. It is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, and its blend of Indian, Persian, and Islamic styles is unparalleled. The white marble of the tomb is inlaid with semi-precious stones, and the intricate carvings are breathtaking. The Taj Mahal is also a symbol of love and devotion. Shah Jahan built it as a tribute to his wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died in childbirth. The tomb is a testament to their love for each other, and it has inspired poets and artists for centuries.

History of the Taj Mahal Tips for visiting the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal was built over a period of 22 years, from 1632 to 1653. The project was overseen by a team of architects and engineers, including the court architect Ustad Ahmad Lahori. The tomb is made of white marble, which was brought from all over India. The inlay work is made of semi-precious stones, including jasper, lapis lazuli, and turquoise.

The Taj Mahal was built at a great cost. It is estimated that over 20,000 laborers worked on the project and that the cost of construction was equivalent to the annual income of the Mughal Empire.

The Taj Mahal today

The Taj Mahal is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. It is visited by millions of people each year. The tomb is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Prices

The entrance fee to the Taj Mahal is ₹50 for Indian citizens and ₹1,100 for foreign tourists. There is also a photography fee of ₹250.

Here are the top tips for visiting the Taj Mahal:

• Visit early in the morning or late in the evening. The Taj Mahal is most crowded during the day, especially in the afternoon. If you can, visit early in the morning or late in the evening, when the crowds are smaller and the light is more flattering.
• Allow at least two hours to visit the Taj Mahal. There is a lot to see and do at the Taj Mahal, so it is important to allow enough time to explore.
• Wear comfortable shoes. You will be doing a lot of walking, so it is important to wear comfortable shoes.
• Bring a bottle of water. It can get hot in Agra, so it is important to stay hydrated.
• Be respectful of the monument and its surroundings. The Taj Mahal is a sacred place, so it is important to be respectful of the monument and its surroundings.
• Avoid flash photography. Flash photography can damage the delicate marble of the Taj Mahal, so it is important to avoid using flash photography.
• Respect the dress code. There is a dress code for visiting the Taj Mahal. Men are required to wear long pants and shirts that cover their shoulders. Women are required to wear long skirts or pants and shirts that cover their shoulders and arms.
• Book your tickets in advance. The Taj Mahal is a popular tourist destination, so it is important to book your tickets in advance. You can book your tickets online or at the ticket counter.
• Take a guided tour. A guided tour can help you learn more about the history and significance of the Taj Mahal.
• Explore the surrounding area. There are many other interesting places to see in the area around the Taj Mahal, such as the Agra Fort and the Jama Masjid.

Conclusion

The Taj Mahal is a truly breathtaking building that is a testament to the love and devotion of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal. It is a must-see for any visitor to India.