Woah hey Taj, you’re pretty amaze-balls…… and you definitely knocked my socks off!  Located in Agra, Uttah Pradesh, the Taj Mahal is THE most breath taking monuments I’ve ever seen. After years of travelling the world, it gets harder and harder to be blown away by a historical sight, but the Taj Mahal really exceeded my expectations.

WHAT TIME OF DAY TO VISIT

I would suggest to get to the Taj Mahal before sunrise. Or at least start to line up for your ticket. I went in low season, so the line for entry was only thirty people deep, so it didn’t take too long to get inside. Our guide had told us that sometimes the queue can meander through the streets for hundreds and hundreds of meters.

When you walk in through the gates to the palace, it’s not hard to see why it’s one of the seven wonders of the world. I was gobsmacked by the grand majestic-ness of the structure, energy and vibe of this place. I was literally walking around in awe with my mouth wide open like a fish.  Having the sun rise up behind the palace was also one magical sights to experience. 

THE HISTORY

The Taj Mahal was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan after his third wife died giving birth to their fourteenth child. Built over a 21 year period, the Taj Mahal is recognised as one of the “jewels” of India and rightly so. The entire white domed mausoleum is covered in individually handmade carved pieces of marble and precious stones – some of the pieces taking days to carve. 

WHAT TO WEAR

Women need to cover up their shoulders and legs so an outfit that does both works best. It does get extremely hot in India, so something that is breathable and flowy would suit. I made the mistake of not taking enough “covering” clothes, so had to buy some throughout the trip.

WHERE TO STAY

The best place to stay whilst visiting the Taj Mahal is the Oberoi Agra.  It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset from your balcony in the afternoon. Also – the hotel is a destination in it’s self.

If you are going to India, you must visit the Taj Mahal. I can hands down say it was was one of my most magical experiences yet.

Have you been to the Taj Mahal? Did you love it?

x

Phoebe

Phoebe Greenacre travelled India in September 2013.