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Destination · Heritage & Monuments, Architecture

Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is one of the world's most iconic monuments, located on the banks of the Yamuna River in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is renowned as a symbol of love, beauty, and architectural per…

UNESCOWorld Heritage
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Introduction

The Taj Mahal is one of the world's most iconic monuments, located on the banks of the Yamuna River in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is renowned as a symbol of love, beauty, and architectural perfection. Built entirely of white marble, the monument features a magnificent dome, intricate inlay work, elegant minarets, and beautifully designed gardens. Considered one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture, the Taj Mahal attracts millions of visitors from around the world and is recognised as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

History

The Taj Mahal was commissioned in the 17th century by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1631 while giving birth to their 14th child. Construction began in 1632 and was completed around 1653, involving thousands of skilled artisans, craftsmen, architects, and labourers from across the Mughal Empire and beyond. The chief architect is traditionally believed to have been Ustad Ahmad Lahori. The monument was built using white marble brought from Makrana in Rajasthan and decorated with precious and semi-precious stone inlay work known as pietra dura. The complex includes the main mausoleum, a mosque, a guest house, gardens, and gateways designed according to Mughal architectural principles. Over centuries, the Taj Mahal has undergone conservation efforts to protect its structure and beauty. Today, it remains India's most famous heritage monument and a timeless symbol of love and artistic excellence.

Best time to visit

October to March; sunrise visits avoid the crowds and the marble's colour shifts through the day.

How to reach

Agra is well connected by rail and the Yamuna Expressway from Delhi, about 3.5 hours by road.

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