Visiting the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is an iconic global landmark, known for its elegant design, awe-inspiring architecture and rich decoration. If you’re planning a visit to this beautiful monument any time soon then make the most of the experience by knowing your stuff beforehand.

Why? The story behind the construction of the Taj Mahal is almost as famous as the building itself. It was commissioned by Mogul emperor Shah Jahan as a spectacular memorial to his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who had died some years before in childbirth. The building is often described to tourists as a ‘monument of eternal love’.

How? It took a workforce of over 20,000 (not to mention 1,000 elephants) twenty years to complete the Taj Mahal, and records suggest that the building was finally finished in 1653. The total cost of construction hit around 32 million rupees – close to $100 million by today’s standards. Rather gruesomely, rumour has it that the numerous builders and artisans who worked on the Taj Mahal had their hands cut off post completion to prevent anything as beautiful being built again.  

What?  As befits a memorial, the Taj Mahal is constructed around a tomb which remains the final resting place of Mumtaz Mahal and the emperor Shah Jahan himself. Other spectacular features include the four minarets, which stand at the corners of the building, and the beautiful and intricate calligraphy that covers the walls. The structure itself is a combination of a number of architectural and artistic styles, including Mogul, Hindi, Islamic and Persian.  

When? The Taj Mahal is at its best in the spring and the autumn – during the summer, scorching temperatures and monsoon rains provide a strong tourist deterrent. If you’re keen to avoid the worst of the crowds then it’s also a good idea to visit in between full moons. The building has a different character at different times of the day, so try to see it both in the morning and in the evening to fully appreciate its beauty.  

Getting there: Agra, the city that plays host to the Taj Mahal, lies approximately 125 miles south of New Delhi. It’s easy to reach both by road and by air, with plenty of airlines offering budget flights to tourists who book in advance. You may also be able to save money on your trip by going through a travel agent; Thomas Cook, for example, offer all inclusive holidays to India (Goa) from £499, including flights and taxes.