Agra, India

TheTaj Mahal

Shah Jahan\'s 17th-century marble masterpiece — a mausoleum of perfect symmetry, precious stone inlay, and a love story that transcends time. UNESCO World Wonder.

1653

Completed

22 Years

Built

20,000

Artisans

28 Types

Stones

What Makes It Special

The Ultimate Love Story

Commissioned in 1632 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died giving birth to their 14th child. The Taj took 22 years and 20,000 artisans to complete. Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son and could only gaze at his masterpiece through a window until his death. He is buried beside her, united at last.

Perfect Symmetry

The Taj Mahal is a study in perfect symmetry — except for Shah Jahan's cenotaph, which is placed slightly off-center to preserve the architectural harmony. The four minarets lean slightly outward so they would fall away from the dome in an earthquake. The marble was brought from Makrana, Rajasthan — the same quarries that supplied the marble for the Victoria Memorial in London.

Color-Changing Marble

The white Makrana marble changes color with the light — pinkish at dawn, milky white at midday, golden at sunset, and silver by moonlight. The pietra dura inlay work features 28 types of precious and semi-precious stones: jade from China, turquoise from Tibet, lapis lazuli from Afghanistan, carnelian from Arabia.

VIP Experience

Arrive at sunrise for the most magical light and smallest crowds. Book a private guided tour with an archaeologist. Stay at the Oberoi Amarvilas (600m from the Taj) with uninterrupted views from every room. The hotel can arrange a private dinner with the Taj as your backdrop.

Luxury Hotels Nearby

Palace600m

The Oberoi Amarvilas

Taj Mahal View

Luxury1.5 km

Taj Hotel & Convention Centre

Modern Luxury

Heritage2.5 km

ITC Mughal

Mughal Gardens

Luxury2.0 km

Trident Agra

Pool & Gardens

"A teardrop on the cheek of time."

— Rabindranath Tagore, on the Taj Mahal

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