A Visit to Taj Mahal

Located on the banks of river Yamuna, is the Agra's obsession – Taj Mahal. It is wonderful and, fascinating, and it is the seventh wonder of the world. It is the greatest monument ever built on earth. Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan built this structure in order to honor his lost love – Mumtaz Mahal, whose real name is Arjumand Banu Beagum. She died in 1631 A.D. in Bhuranpur after giving birth to the female child. Construction of Taj Mahal started in 1631 and completed in 1653. Around 20,000 workers devoted day and night to construct this magnificent monument. Built at the expanse of 40,000,000 rupees, it proved to be the costliest tombs in the world.

Architectural Significance of Taj Mahal :

Taj Mahal is the true reflection of the Islamic form of architecture. The historical records related to the construction of this ultimate monument cite Ustad Isa as its chief architect. Isa was the most popular architect of his time and was well accomplished in the Islamic architecture. And it was his great mastery only that made Taj Mahal the most renowned monument in the world. The heart stealer white marble of Taj shimmers like the jewel that was especially brought from Makrana in Rajasthan.

See and Admire :

Taj is a complex structure that is enclosed in a garden amongst fountains and dressy tress. Popular for its symmetry, Taj Mahal surmounts a square marble platform marked by four minrates on each side. Each of its minrates is about 42 meters tall. The central hall is surrounded by 16 chambers, where the Koran used to be recited. The intricate drawings on the wall and the exclusive jali work is the fine example of the brilliant architecture.

The finest motif work representing plants with roots or a flying bee, hovering around the a flower, were inspirations adapted from the encyclopedia named Herbals, published in Europe in the 16th century. The marble platform was constructed on a plinth of red stone. Forty three different qualities of pearls were inlaid, of which, red and crystal were transported from China, while Tibet provided turquoise. Yellow amber was imported from Burma, while lapis lazuli and creosote from Egypt and Badakshan respectively.

Islam considered calligraphy as the greatest form of art and the calligrapher was recognized as the representative of God. The unique calligraphy of Taj Mahal is the work of Amanat Khan of Siraz. He first drew the entire it on the papers, which were then copied by laying colored marbles on white marbles. The Koran's sermons are reproduced on the arches of the main doorway and aisles in the main hall. It is undoubtedly the best spicemen of calligraphy ever produced. The lush Green lawns made of definite geometric patterns and beautified by fountains makes yet another fascinating sight. On the clear day, one can even see the reflection of Taj in the water.

Things to do :

Tonga Ride in Taj Mahal :
On the tour to Taj Mahal, one can not miss the rare opportunity of taking the tonga ride. It is the most reasonable mode of transport and is complete fun. Another good thing about the tonga ride is that, it does not emit pollution as other means of transport. As soon as you enter the Taj Mahal, you will find large number of tonga drivers ready to take you for the sightseeing tour. These tonga wallas are warm
hearted people, who enchants you the fascinating stories of the Mughal era, while taking the ride. These tongas are fully decorated one, giving you the feel of royal era. They are equipped with the comfortable siting making you completely at ease.

Photography :
The best way to carry the reflection of Mughal era back to home is to indulge yourself in photography. The mere idea of being photographed with your spouse before this marble wonder and mesmerize you. You can even hire the photographers, who can click your pictures in a much better way.

Sailing Adventure :
Taj Mahal is the subject of fascination for people around the world. It is advisable for the tourists to go sailing at Yamuna river to appreciate it from all sides. Make a way to the Poorbi Ghat before the dawn that gives you the opportunity to enjoy the complete charm of this monumental beauty. Turn left to reach the steps, here a breathtaking sight awaits you. Sailing at Yamuna is particularly dreamy when foggy.

Shopping and Eating :
While returning home do not forget to take a replica of Taj Mahal. It is a mini Taj Mahal, made by the local artisans, that keep reminding of your exclusive tour to Taj Mahal. Then you can also shop for the other handicrafts items sold in the premises of Taj Mahal, that include good range of metal, brass, silver and copper work. There are many eating outlets and hotels around Taj Mahal where you can taste numerous traditional dishes of Northern India. The city of Taj Mahal is quite famous for 'petha' (a kind of sweet).

Taj Carnival :
Held in the month of February every year, Taj Mahotsav, is a ten day non stop carnival, organised at Shilpgram near to the Taj Mahal. The main attraction of the festival are the rich art and craft work, traditional music and dance, as well as unique cuisine of Uttar Pradesh. It brings great opportunity for the artisans to display their exquisite work of art. The handicrafts work displayed during the festival includes silk of Banares, handmade carpets of Badohi, woodcarvings of Saharanpur, chikan work of Lucknow, and blue pottery of Khurja. Apart from that, long possessions of of beautifully ornamented camels and elephants, folk artists, drummers and master craftsmen are carried out in the town.