Who has never dreamed of visiting one of the wonders of the world Nobody. Their media coverage is such that we have all dreamed of visiting at least one of them one day. But sometimes, when you go from dream to reality, disappointment may be at the rendezvous. The clichés about these places are so powerful that they can skew our perception of the place. I speak here knowingly. Indeed, I had the chance to visit the Colosseum, the Taj Mahal and Christ the Redeemerduring my various trips. And only one did not disappoint me, the Taj Mahal. Even if the Christ of Rio and the Colosseum are real architectural gems, there was no such flame for me. But only a sure tourist frequentation. While going to explore the Taj Mahal is for me going in search of a real atmosphere. But for that, you will have to follow some tips.
Little historical point
The history of the Taj Mahal already makes it one of a kind. It is the fruit of love. Indeed, Shah Jahan had the palace built as a tribute to his wife Mumtaz Tahal after her death during the birth of their fourteenth child. It took 17 years of work to build this tribute to eternal love. The Mughal emperor is also buried there in the mausoleum, in the meadow of his beloved. So it’s love that makes this place so special. But there is also no denying that the Yamuna, and the Indian atmosphere, adds an indefinable charm to it.
Getting to agra
It is quite simple to get to Agra. Of course, this depends on your destination, because the distances in India are enormous. Agra is only 3h30 by train from the capital New Delhi. If you come from a city nearby, I recommend the train (Max 5h). If, on the other hand, you come from a more distant place, I recommend the sleeper bus, which is much more comfortable. In terms of prices, of course, this varies from your departure city. But for information, a New Delhi – Agra by train superior class, will cost you about 400 rupees or about 5€.
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Tips for exploring the taj mahal
Let’s get to the heart of the matter. To explore the Taj Mahal in the best possible conditions you will have to get up early . Indeed, if you want to enjoy the sunrise and the calm, you will have to get there around 5:15 a.m. , to be well placed when the mausoleum opens at 6 a.m. Small detail, but not least, you will have to walk an alley of about 500m which separates the road from the entrance to the Taj Mahal. Once at the reception you can buy your ticket. It costs 1100 rupees or about 14€ for foreigners. If you have a student card, it will be a little cheaper, 800 rupees of memory.
Once inside the mausoleum, let yourself be enchanted. You can admire the tombs of lovers there, in silence and without shoes. Allow 2 hours to visit the Taj Mahal and enjoy its beauty as well as the sunrise over the Yamuna. If like me you like to listen to music during your adventures, I recommend this mixtape by DJ Mose which is in perfect symbiosis with the atmosphere of the place. Once out of this visit filled with emotions, you can go in search of the other jewels of the city of Agra . But if there is one activity that I recommend to you, it is to enjoy the sunset over this wonder of the world from the Mehtab Bagh park .
Accommodation in agra
Regarding accommodation, I recommend the Mustache Hostel if you are traveling with a backpack or with friends. It is located less than 10 minutes on foot from the entrance to the mausoleum. This is the best placed hostel, the atmosphere is really great and the rooms are very clean. If you are looking for a charming or luxury hotel for a couple or family trip, I recommend the ITC Mughal . If you’re not too fancy, but prefer a more local charm, then I recommend the Coral Court .
