The architectural beauty of Taj Mahal has never been surpassed. It is one of the eight wonders of the world. One of the most beautiful monuments built by the Mughal, the Muslim rulers of India, it is built entirely of white marble. Its stunning architectural beauty is beyond adequate description, particularly at dawn and sunset. The Taj seems to glow in the light of the full moon. Archaeological History: Taj Mahal was built by a Muslim, Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his dear wife and Queen Mumtaz Mahal in Agra, India. It is an “elegy in marble” or some say an expression of a “dream.” Taj Mahal (meaning Crown Palace) is a Mausoleum that houses the grave of Queen Mumtaz Mahal at the lower chamber. The grave of Shah Jahan was added to it later. Taj Mahal was constructed over a period of twenty-two years, employing twenty thousand workers. It was completed in 1648 C.E. at a cost of 32 million rupees. The construction documents show that its master architect was Ustad ‘Isa, the renowned Islamic architect of his time. Expert craftsmen from Delhi, Qannauj, Lahore, and Multan were employed. In addition, many renowned Muslim craftsmen from Baghdad, Shiraz and Bukhara worked on many specialized tasks. Geographical location Taj Mahal is one of the most visited tourist attractions in India. The carefully planned location of Taj Mahal makes it easily reachable from anywhere in Agra. It is located in the heart of Agra city. The exact geographical location of Taj Mahal in Agra is 27°10'30o North and 78°02'32o East. Cost of stay The entrance fee is 750 rupees ($18) for foreigners and a significantly less 20 rupees (50 cents) for Indian nationals. Children younger than 15 years are free. Night time tickets cost 750 rupees for foreigners and 500 rupees for Indian nationals, for half an hour's admittance. These tickets must be purchased 24 hours in advance from the Archeological Survey of India office on Mall Road. Taj Mahal Festivals The week long Taj Mahotsav takes place at Shilpgram in Agra, right near the Taj Mahal, from February 18-27 each year. The focus of this festival is on arts, crafts, Indian culture, and recreating the Mughal era. It gets underway with a spectacular procession that includes elephants, camels, and drummers. Elephant and camel rides are on offer, and there are also games for the kids, and a food festival. The venue has special significance, as it's apparently located on the site where the artisans who built the Taj Mahal once lived. Travel tips The Taj Mahal appears to gradually alter its color in the changing light of the day. Its well worth the effort to get up early and spend sunrise there, as it majestically reveals itself. Be prepared to encounter plenty of beggars and touts at the entrance. If you don't want to pay the costly admission fee or battle the crowds, you can get a great view of the Taj from across the river bank. Agra is a rather dirty and characterless city, so don't spend more than a day there. The best time to visit is from November to February, otherwise it can be unbearably hot or rainy. Hotels to stay in Hotel Sheela is an excellent place to stay that won't break the budget and it is very well located right next to the Taj Mahal, in a pollution free zone that's free of traffic. It has a pleasant garden setting. Prices range from 400 rupees ($10) for a single room with fan, up to 800 rupees ($20) for an executive double room with air conditioning. Alternatively, if money isn't an issue, the luxurious Oberoi Amarvilas located only 600 meters from the Taj Mahal is the place to stay. Rooms with a view of the Taj start from around $700. It's certain that you won't want to leave! __
