Sunset is a particularly scenic time to visit the Taj Mahal
During my recent visit to India, I got a chance to see the Taj Mahal in Agra. It was one of the most impressive buildings I’ve even seen in person. Built as a tomb for Mumtaz Mahal, his beloved 3rd-wife-of-12, It was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan.
Sunset at the Taj Mahal in Agra
The Taj Mahal grounds are larger than I anticipated, with gardens, a mosque, a museum and a guest house all on property with the famed domed marble mausoleum.
The #selfie in front of the Taj Mahal seemed to be the shot everyone was going for
In real life, the marble changes color as the sun goes down. The building appears very strong and delicate at the same time. The details seem to be spun out of lace at times.
The minarets lean in, so as not to destroy the tomb if hit by an earthquake
The building’s marble color shifts during the sunset hours (shot on a Lumia 920)
The line to get into the Taj Mahal was rather long
Since the Taj Mahal is a tomb, you leave your shoes outside
I was struck by the vanity of the building. While I’m sure it started as a labor of love, the Taj Mahal is pure ediface complex— it’s a legacy associated with builder Shah Jahan far more than the dead wife it’s for. It’s a really, really good vanity project.
I loved seeing this super-fierce dude taking a selfie in front of the Taj. He made my day rocking that man purse!
Best Taj Mahal Selfie Ever.
The Taj Mahal (shot with my Fuji X10)
The Taj Mahal is open everyday (except Friday) from sunrise to sunset.
The Taj Mahal is open at night Night, 8:30 PM to 12:30 AM (On Full Moon Night, and two days before and two days after)
Travel Tip: It’s worth it to pay for a private guide.
Day Fee: Rs 750 (Foreigners)
Rs 510 (Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC Countries)
Rs 20 (Indian)
Entry Free for children below 15 years of age
Night Fee: Rs 750 (Adult, Foreign)
Rs 510 (Adult, Indian)
Rs 500 (Child 3-15 Years, Indian & Foreign)
Entry free for child below 3 years of age