TAJ MAHAL-EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

Islamic architecture’s most beautiful building, the Taj Mahal, is located on the southern shore of the Jumna Rive close to Agra in Northern India. This mighty mausoleum was built on the orders of the Mogul King, Shah Jehan, for his favourite wife.Surrounding an inner core of stone, the Taj Mahal is mainly of brick construction encased in marble. The marble was transported from quarries about 300 km from Agra and in addition to its richly decorated, precious white marble, red sandstone was also used for its massive main gateway. Floral reliefs, tendrils and other carefully created stone works adorn the building’s magnificent exterior. On its walls there are artistic images taken from the Koran and there are also non-Islamic decorations that were designed by 17th century architects. The stunning Persian motifs of blossom and plants consist partly of precious stones such as diamonds, garnet, sapphires and onyx. In 1629 the wife of the Indian Mogul, Shah Jehan, died at the birth of her 14th child. In her memory, her husband promised to build a mighty monument: the result was the Taj Mahal. It was built between 1630 and 1653 and its Persian character is due to its first architect, Isa Afandi, who originated from Iran. Its onion-like cupolas were a real architectural achievement of their day and the symmetry of the building is truly remarkable. A perfect example of Indo-Islamic architecture, today the Taj Mahal is India’s most famous structure.

What to bring to the Taj Mahal

Always leave your valuables in the hotel. There are lockers available at the Taj but it’s best to have minimal belongings on you so you don’t spend too much time checking in.

You really only need to bring the following in one small bag:

• Passport
• Money
• Water
• Medicine
• Camera
• Phone

What to wear to the Taj Mahal

There is no dress code but you should still be respectful. If you want to enter the mosque, you will need to cover your head, shoulders and knees.

It gets hot in Agra and there is very little shade, so wear light clothing and make sure you wear sunscreen. Then again, Agra also gets very cold in winter (Nov-Feb) so layers are your friend too.

If you visit with Intrepid, you’ll be taken there earlier in the day or later in the afternoon to avoid the worst of the heat.

Having been to the Taj a few times, I’ve learnt the importance of wearing shoes that are easy to remove. You need to take your shoes off when you go inside and the easier they are to slip on and off the better. This actually applies to much of India – shoes with loads of laces are hard!

Other things you need to know

No food is allowed inside.

Cigarettes and lighters are also not allowed.

Tripods and additional lighting equipment need prior permission to be brought with. Photography inside the mausoleum is prohibited. Most electronics (except cameras and small video cameras) are not allowed.

Be wary of touts, thieves and rude shop keepers. It’s a busy, high-pressure area, but keep your wits about you and you won’t need to worry!

When you’re at the Taj Mahal

Go early, wait for space to explore and photograph, and get yourself away from the crowds (if possible).

If you walk around to the right side of the Taj (as you approach the east gate), you can get an amazing photo from the riverbank behind the Taj. (Always go in groups and get a rickshaw to take you there and back cheaply.)

The Taj Mahal is a place for exploring quietly on your own or with loved ones. So, once I’m done briefing my groups I give them a good 2-3 hours inside the Taj. There are ways I try to make the experience special and memorable for travelers, but if I say what they are then they will no longer be surprises!
The Taj has such a charm. Every time I see it it looks different (due to the direction of the sunlight). It’s so beautiful…

Tips for taking photos at the Taj Mahal

Everyone wants that iconic shot of themselves at the Taj Mahal. You know the one – where you sit on the bench and the grandeur of the marble mausoleum forms the backdrop.

But if you’re feeling creative and want to mix things up, there are tons of different angles worth seeking out.

• Shot from the arch of the main doorway
• Capture the reflection of the fountains that line the route towards the Taj Mahal’s main platform
• Shot of Taj Mahal from the riverside with the reflection on the river
• Shot from the other side of the river, ‘Mehtab Bagh’, where you get a glimpse of Taj
• The Taj Mahal can also be shot from some parts of the Red Fort

You can also get great photos from the many rooftops of restaurants close to the Taj Mahal. Unfortunately, Agra does get pretty smoggy, so winter can often have poor visibility earlier in the day and around sunset. That said, this can make shots look very atmospheric!

Aksherdham Temple

                                                       

EXPLORE

Swaminarayan Akshardham at New Delhi explores Hinduism’s values and traditions through a variety of media, from a large format film to a multimedia water show. . What is shared is an informative and inspiring journey through an ancient culture’s glorious art, values and contributions for the progress, happiness and harmony of all humans. So, depending on each visitor’s time, interests, and personal quest, their Akshardham experience becomes unique to them.

                                              

SWAGATAM

‘Swagatam’ – Welcome. The exploration of Akshardham begins with auspicious symbols and prayers for universal peace and harmony. The experience begins with the invocation of the Vedic prayer: आ नो भद्राः क्रतवो यन्तु विश्वतः' - 'Let noble thoughts come to us from all directions'. Akshardham welcomes people from all directions, backgrounds, faiths and beliefs and teaches everyone to do the same. 

MANDIR

Built of pink sandstone and marble, the mandir is the spiritual center of the entire complex. The murtis of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, his successors, Shri Radha-Krishna, Shri Sita-Ram, Shri Lakshmi-Narayan and Shri Parvati-Shiva reside in this intricately carved abode. Strengthening the faith of believers, blessing all aspirants and bringing peace to everyone, the Akshardham Mandir is a temple that welcomes all. 

ABHISHEK MANDAP

Everyone can join in the sacred abhishek ritual. Bathe the sacred image of Bhagwan Swaminarayan as the youthful yogi, Neelkanth, and offer a prayer – for personal strength and spiritual progress, for loved ones, for world peace, or for anything you may desire. 

EXHIBITIONS

A balanced fusion of ancient wisdom and modern media technology, these exhibitions provide a powerful, soul-stirring experience of Hindu heritage and universal values. A source of education, information and inspiration, they are a fourfold combination of art, science, culture and spirituality.

WATER SHOW

Sitting on the steps of an ancient step well as the Sun sets, visitors travel back in time to the Vedic era and explore the secret of 'Sahaj Anand' – spontaneous joy. This new water show, opened in November 2014, presents a profound story from the Kena Upanishad using a breathtaking interplay of various media including water, lights, laser, video projection, and fire. 

THEMATIC GARDENS

A visit to Swaminarayan Akshardham’s two thematic gardens is a conversation with nature and history. Learn about inspiring women, men and children from Hindu culture and Indian history at the Bharat Upavan. Imbibe the wisdom of great minds from around the world at the Yogi Hriday Kamal.