On a Taj Mahal tour, some would call it a white marble monument, others an epitome of true love. But what stands on the south bank of Yamuna River is a mix of all these little aspects. Built-in 1632 by the great Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, the mausoleum was carved to house the tomb of Mumtaz Mahal. Simply a way for the emperor to showcase his love for his favorite wife.
While there can be a lot of things to know on a Taj Mahal trip, like the fine architecture, the myths related to the artisans, and more. Tourism of India brings together all the details that interest you, and make the perfect Taj Mahal holiday package for you.
Counted among the 7 Wonders of the World, Taj Mahal is visited by a number of art connoisseurs. The intricate use of Mughal architecture by the artisans, the tilted minarets to protect the structure from calamities. Are some facts that your Taj Mahal tour guide would tell you while you gaze and photograph the beguiling monument.
On your Taj Mahal holiday, you also get to enjoy cruising on the Yamuna River, watch the Light and Sound show at Agra Fort which are the best things to do here. The UNESCO World Heritage Site looks even mesmerizing when viewed from Mehtab Bagh, Agra Fort, or on a full moon night.
Welcome to India! Enjoy a traditional swagat (welcome) and a private transfer to your hotel in New Delhi before heading out to explore the city with your group. Delhi, the capital of India, is a densely populated city where ancient culture meets modern life. Discover the narrow alleyways of Chandni Chowk market in Old Delhi, with spice shops, sweets vendors, and food carts. Or immerse yourself in the unforgettable colors, sights, and smells of India at the Dilli Haat or Janpath markets, both in New Delhi.
Later, head to the historical ruins of Hauz Khas hamlet. Discover the tomb of Sultan Firuz Shah Tughluq, a 14th-century Muslim ruler of Delhi, and a madrassa (Islamic religious school) he built. You’ll find several impressive pre-Mughal-era tombs with awe-inspiring names like “the tomb within the garden of the world.” In adjacent Deer Park, part of one of the largest green areas in the city known as the “lungs of Delhi,” you’ll find a deer enclosure, peacocks, and plenty of walking paths and picnic spots.
Before the city wakes up, set out on two wheels to explore Old Delhi’s narrow winding streets. An early departure avoids the morning rush. Take in one of the five remaining Old Delhi gates, Turkman Gate, and pass the fragrant flower market on your way. You’ll stop at Gurudwara Sis Ganj, a Sikh temple that also houses a communal kitchen that provides food for up to 20,000 people each day. Stop for hot tea and cookies at Khari Baoli, Asia’s largest spice market, before concluding your morning cycling tour.
In the afternoon, enjoy a half-day tour of some of the best sites and attractions in Delhi: Raj Ghat, a Gandhi memorial; India Gate, a war memorial; Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Presidential Palace; and the Parliament House. In the colonial districts, you’ll also see the work of 20th-century British architect Edwin Lutyens. Stop at the Laxmi Narayan Temple, the first large Hindu temple built in Delhi, then end your tour at UNESCO World Heritage Site Humayun’s Tomb, a marvelous example of Persian-inspired Mughal architecture.
This morning you’ll travel with a private driver to Agra, a city that grew in prominence under the rule of the Mughal Empire from the 16th century. One of the Great Mughal emperors, Akbar, reigned over one of the most memorable periods in the city’s history when it became a leading center of art, science, commerce and culture, drawing intellectuals and artists to its darbars (royal courts) and havelis (traditional townhouse mansions).
In the afternoon, visit Agra Fort, a palatial walled city whose mighty red sandstone façade encloses the beautiful white marble Pearl Mosque and the palaces, halls, courtyards, and fountains of Akbar’s sons and successors. Various architectural styles demonstrate Akbar’s boldness, Jahangir’s refinement, and Shah Jahan’s subtlety. You’ll see the Diwan-i-Am and Diwan-i-Khaas, halls for public and private receptions, and Jodha Bai’s Palace, one of the largest and most prominent palaces commissioned by Akbar.
Today at sunrise, you’ll get up close to the Taj Mahal to experience its color-changing hues with the rising sun. Perhaps one of humanity’s greatest testaments to love, the Taj Mahal has become synonymous with India. Shah Jehan built this white marble mausoleum in the 17th century for his Empress Mumtaz Mahal, taking 22 years and over 20,000 craftsmen working around the clock to complete it. No matter how many photos you’ve seen, experiencing it in person is absolutely breathtaking.
After breakfast, transfer to Delhi Airport, where you’ll catch a flight to Mumbai, the capital of the Maharashtra state on India’s west coast and the country’s main economic hub. It’s the fastest-moving, most affluent, and most industrialized city in India. On arrival at your hotel, you’ll have a free evening to relax or explore Mumbai’s nightlife. Head to Marine Drive promenade, also known as the “Queen’s Necklace,” because its streetlights resemble a string of pearls from above, to find many good restaurants offering local culinary specialties as well as international dishes.
Today you’ll explore Mumbai with a private guide. Famous as the heart of the Bollywood film industry, Mumbai is a busy and vibrant metropolis. Visit the Gateway of India, the Prince of Wales Museum, and the Gandhi Museum, housed in Gandhi’s former home in Mumbai. You’ll also explore Kamla Nehru Park, from which you can appreciate an amazing view of Marine Drive. Other highlights include Flora Fountain, Victoria Terminus, the University of Mumbai, the High Court, Rajabai Clock Towers, Nariman Point, and Horniman Circle.
Today, your tour of India comes to an end, and it’s time to pack your bags and head back with the memories of a lifetime. You’ll get a private transfer from your hotel to Mumbai International Airport. Safe travels!
₹ 15000/-