The Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is majestic. Completely symmetrical from the outside (inside the two cenotaphs are not positioned symmetrically). Although the complex is filled with tourists, there were places where it was possible to sit apart and admire the beautiful architecture. We were here for sunset, which was also lovely. The sun actually sets to the side of the Taj Mahal, and rises right behind it. Sunset wasn't a disappointment however. As we watched the sun descend, the buildings were bathed in the gorgeous yellow and orange light from the setting sun, turning the sky pink at one point. I also particularly like some of the clouds captured in the photos below. There are a lot of pictures here, of this one building, and there are many many more that I begrudgingly left out since 72 photos is a little too much for a blog post, even by my standards! 

One important aspect of my trip to the Taj, was the hideous situation I encountered inside. This was all pushing, shoving, shouting and picture taking. It's important to remember that the Taj Mahal is a mausoleum, two people are buried here. Sure, the tombs inside the public part are empty and just for show, but I was shocked at the complete lack of respect shown to this resting place. Security were doing a terrible job of controlling everyone inside and I was happy to get back outside and simply take in the view from afar.

I'm grateful to have visited this heritage site, and for it to have completely lived up to its hype. Unlike when I visited the Terracotta Warriors in Xian, I did not leave here disappointed!

Love the clouds here.

Most of the calligraphy at the Taj Mahal is verses from the Quran