Visiting The Taj Mahal

When I decided to visit my friend in Mumbai, India, I thought that I should cease the opportunity to visit one of the most famous Indian monument: the Taj Mahal.

First Time In India

I booked a tour with a driver and guides, to see some of the best monuments in Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, before reaching Mumbai. Since it was my first time in India and since I was a solo travelling woman, I thought that it was safer not to be by myself. And I think I was right. I did not stay in India for long, it was more of an overview than a real experience of India. In North India, I felt a bit anxious and overwhelmed and I was definitely glad not to be alone. I felt safer in Mumbai, that is more South and has a different atmosphere.

Sunrise On The Taj Mahal

In Agra, the guide asked me if I wanted to wake up early to see the sun rise on the Taj Mahal. He said that he did not think that it was necessary. He told me that there was fog at that time of the year (December) and that maybe we wouldn’t see anything. Still, I decided to give it a try. And it was a good call. There was a little bit of fog, but with the sunrise, it looked really nice. Also, I think that there were less people.

High Expectations

I expected a lot from the Taj Mahal. That’s the problem with famous monuments, you’ve heard so much about it that you have incredibly high expectations. I don’t fully know why, but even if it was beautiful, it wasn’t as magical as I expected it to be. The visit of the Alhambra (a few years ago) was much more emotional. Maybe, it’s because the Taj Mahal has less gardens, less flowers, and it feels less intimate. Although, let’s not forget that these monuments are different: the Alhambra is a palace while the Taj Mahal is a mausoleum.

The Taj Mahal is impressive in its size and details. Every decoration was carefully crafted and placed on the marble. Nearly all the building is symmetrical, except for an added cenotaph (tumb) inside the mausoleum.

I feel like it’s more majestic seen from a bit further, like from the gate or from the pool where it’s reflecting… However, the inside of the mausoleum must also be visited. Under the dome, the atmosphere changes a little bit. It feels warmer, more solemn, and the ornaments are precious and detailed.

To see more photos of India, you can visit the gallery India.