Location
This famous monument of love is located on the bank of the river Yamuna, in
the city Agra of north Indian state Uttar Pradesh.
Overview
This is one of the most beautiful monuments built by the fifth Mughal
emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaj Mahal. The construction of
Taj Mahal was started in 1632 AD and completed at the end of 1648 A.D. This
is regarded as one of the seven wonders of the world due to its incomparable
architectural beauty.
Architecture
The principal architect was the Iranian architect Istad Usa, a renowned
Islamic architecture of his time. The structure is entirely built of white
marble and is a blend of Mughal, Persian and Central Asian architecture. Its
central dome is 58 feet in diameter and rises to a hight of 213 feet. It has
four subsidiary domed chambers and four graceful slender minarets with 162.5
feet each. The entire mausoleum is decorated with inlaid design of flowers
and calligraphy using precious gems.
Attractions
» Main Gate - The main gate is built in red
sandstone and measures 30 mt. in height. The walls of the gate are inscribed
with verses from the Koran in Arabic. In the centre is a platform from where
tourists can capture the Taj on film.
»
Taj Museum - The museum is located to the left of the central chamber of
the main gateway to the Taj. The museums houses two beautifully decorated
marble pillars, which are believed to have once been part of the Agra Fort.
There are also portraits of Shah Jahan, Mumtaj and other Mughal emperors.
Besides, several ornaments and porcelain objects are also in display.
» The Mosque & the Jawab - To the left of the
Taj is a mosque made of red sandstone and is used for Friday prayers. An
identical mosque is also built to the right of the Taj and is known as
Jawab. It was built to maintain symmetry.
» Taj Gardens - The Taj Gardens are designed by Ali
Marden Khan, one of the nobles of Shah Jahan's court. In the middle of the
gardens is a reservoir which supplies water to the gardens.
» Taj Mahotsav or Taj Festival - This a famous
cultural festival held in the month of February every year. Classical dance,
music, camel rides, games, food festivals are the major features of this 10
days event.
How to Reach
The monument is easily accessible from all the major cities of India by
air, rail and road.
» Air - The Kheria Airport of Agra is connected to
Delhi, Khajuraho, Varanasi and other important destinations in and around
Agra.
» Rail - The city Agra is well connected to all the
four metros by regular train service. The four major rail heads are : Agra
Cantt, Agra Fort, Idgah Agra Junction and Raja-ki-Mandi.
» Road - Agra is connected to Delhi(203km), Jaipur,
Khajuraho, Bharatpur, Lucknow and some other cities by a good motorable road
network.
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