MAKE MOST OF TRIP TO TAJ
Whatever the budget for your holiday to India, a pilgrimage to its most famous attraction should be on your list. Some inside knowledge goes a long way to ensuring you capitalise on the opportunity
On my third visit to the Taj Mahal over more than 50 years, I’m thrilled by how it never loses its magic. I’m also aware a little information could help first-time visitors feel more relaxed as they marvel at its beauty.
CHOOSE YOUR MOMENT
There are always crowds, but the number of people depends on the time of year.
Peak India sightseeing is in the cooler months, October to March. When it’s hotter there will be fewer people but, even for heat-experienced Aussies, it’s no fun sightseeing in 38C-plus temperatures.
India’s pollution means motor vehicles are banned for a kilometre around the Taj.
You can walk, take a horse-driven carriage, an electric “bus” or hop on a golf buggy.
DELHI OR AGRA?
It’s totally possible to visit the Taj Mahal on a day trip from Delhi, especially now there’s a new tolled highway cutting transport time down to about two to three hours.
You can get picked up about 3am and snooze in an air-conditioned bus to arrive in time for a sunrise tour.
But for those who want to spend some time with the magnificent Mughal architecture, there are many accommodation options in Agra.
Your tour could then include a visit to nearby Fatehpur Sikri, the Mughal capital, which is worth at least a whole day.
TAKE A TAJ TOUR
Most tours include transportation on electric vehicles similar to golf carts for the final car-free kilometre to the gates.
The price range will depend on the size of the group and should include the admission price and ticketing before you get there.
Guides give you plenty of time to take your perfect picture; they’ll be able to speed your trip through security and ensure you don’t try to bring in forbidden items.
LEAVE IT BEHIND
The powers that be haven’t yet caught up with the fact many digital cameras and phones are capable of taking video, so the ban on bringing video cameras seems a little unnecessary.
However, tripods will be confiscated. Selfie sticks are permitted but one of our group was told to leave hers behind, as it had a tripod function on its base.
KNOW YOUR STUFF
Your guide will have plenty of information as you wander around, but knowing a little history before you go will only add to your amazement.
It’s a mausoleum – not a temple or a mosque, although the mosque
on the grounds means it’s closed on Fridays.
Yes, it’s made of white marble, but its decorations come from inlays of black marble and semi-precious stones, including onyx, coral, jade and lapis lazuli.
For those who’ve never read about Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, it’s a must to understand why their tale of romance has lasted 600 years.
Despite the fact this building is one of the most iconic sights in the world, it will still evoke wonder when you step through the entrance gates and see it.
Consider planning your trip to coincide with the full moon for what’s been described as the ultimate way to see the Taj. Whatever you do, it’s worth taking your time.