Visiting the Taj Mahal is one of the most iconic experiences in India. It is a testament to the love Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan had for his wife Mumtaz Mahal.
However, the monument can get crowded during certain times of the year. This can make it difficult to capture the best photos.
1. Know the History of the Taj Mahal
When you visit the Taj Mahal, it’s important to know about the history behind the monument. It will make your experience more enjoyable and give you a better understanding of why it was built.
The construction of the Taj Mahal took a lot of time and effort. Masons, carpenters, stone cutters and calligraphers from across the Mughal Empire came together to work on the project.
Some of the most impressive features of the Taj Mahal are its floral motives and its inlaid semi-precious stones. These designs are a representation of purity and spirituality in Islam.
2. Wear Comfortable Shoes
If you’re planning to visit the Taj Mahal, it is important to wear comfortable shoes. This is because you’ll be doing a lot of walking while exploring the site.
In addition, it is a good idea to bring a shawl or scarf so that you can keep yourself covered from the sun’s rays. You can also bring a light jacket for cooler days or evenings, depending on your plans.
There is no enforced dress code at the Taj Mahal, but you should still err on the side of modesty. It is recommended that women cover their shoulders and knees, while men should avoid low-cut tops.
3. Get a Guide
There are few sights on the planet that carry deeper architectural, historical and cultural connotations than the Taj Mahal. That’s why it’s vital to get a guide when visiting this world wonder – whether you’ve read up on the site in advance or are just a casual traveler.
If you’re not already, we’d recommend getting a guide from a registered tour agency in advance. They’ll help you buy your tickets, go through security, show you around the complex and tell you about the story behind the Taj Mahal.
4. Don’t Set Your Expectations Too High
The Taj is a site to behold and no trip to India would be complete without a visit. But it can be a challenge to plan an itinerary around the best time to see the Taj, especially if you’re travelling solo.
The construction of the Taj took 20,000 workers from across the empire to put the finishing touches on what is now the world’s most famous monument. During the construction process, masons, stone cutters, inlayers, carvers, painters and calligraphers all the way from Central Asia and Iran were requisitioned for their talents. A team of engineers devised a pulley system that made the most of their efforts. A slew of other technologies were used to achieve the building’s many feats of engineering, from the cleverly named TMU (tumulus magnetic monopoly) to the most accurate measurements of water pressure.
5. Go With the Flow
The Taj Mahal is one of the most iconic monuments in the world, and it’s hard not to be completely enchanted by it. But the crowds that surround it can be overwhelming, so it’s important to go with the flow and not set your expectations too high.
It’s especially important to go with the flow if you’re looking to take photos of the Taj Mahal itself. While it’s easy to get a shot from the entrance, you’ll have a much better experience if you take your time and don’t rush.