After an amazing start to my India trip in Delhi, it was time to continue my journey through the Golden Triangle. Next up were the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, and I was particularly excited to see the iconic Taj Mahal.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a magnificent white-marble mausoleum commissioned by the fifth Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Today, people around the world regard it as a symbol of love and one of the most romantic places on earth. It sounded truly incredible, and it certainly was!
Read here: New Delhi vs Old Delhi – Welcome to India
The Drive to Agra and the Taj Mahal
The drive from Delhi to Agra took around three to four hours, depending on the traffic. And the cows blocking the road! So, as we left Delhi behind, I enjoyed watching the scenery change. We passed through the Indian countryside, with its small villages, people sitting outside their homes, others walking along the roads, and, of course, plenty of cows.
I took lots of photos from the car. Unfortunately, I didn’t feel comfortable stopping at random places and wandering around on my own. Still, I thoroughly enjoyed the passing scenery, and Azad, my driver, kindly slowed down whenever I wanted to take a picture.
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The Oberoi Hotel
To make the most of my visit to the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, I booked a stay at the stunning Oberoi Amarvilas Hotel. After all, seeing the Taj Mahal was one of the experiences I had been looking forward to most, so I wanted to do it in style. And so should you!
In fact, the hotel offers unrestricted views of the Taj Mahal from every room and suite. Sitting on my balcony and admiring the iconic monument was truly unforgettable. The hotel itself was absolutely breathtaking, and I only wish I could have stayed longer. Unfortunately, my Golden Triangle journey continued to Jaipur the very next morning.
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The Taj Mahal
Because my hotel was so close to the Taj Mahal, I travelled to the entrance in one of the Oberoi Hotel buggies. What amazing service! Although it was a busy Sunday, I seemed to be one of very few international tourists there. Perhaps that was one advantage of visiting during the off-season?
The Taj Mahal complex showcases a remarkable blend of Indo-Islamic and Mughal architecture. Its perfect symmetry and intricate details make it truly one of a kind. Photography wasn’t allowed inside the main mausoleum, and I had to cover my shoes before entering. Still, I took plenty of pictures of the exterior and the people I met along the way.
It was an unbelievable experience. Certainly luxury travel at its best!
Unfortunately, the fog prevented me from enjoying the sunrise and sunset views. That morning, I couldn’t see the Taj Mahal from my hotel room at all. Nevertheless, I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Agra. Visiting the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, together with my stay at the beautiful Oberoi Hotel, made the experience unforgettable.
Who knows? I might return someday!
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The Agra Fort
Near the gardens of the Taj Mahal stands the magnificent 16th-century Agra Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. I actually visited the fort before the Taj Mahal, but I saved it for last in my story.
The fort is truly impressive and, in my opinion, even more striking than the Red Fort in Delhi. Its massive 2.5-kilometre-long red sandstone walls once enclosed the imperial city of the Mughal rulers. As I explored the fort’s palaces, halls, and courtyards, I could see the Taj Mahal in the distance. It was an unforgettable experience.
So far, my Golden Triangle trip has been incredible. Seeing the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort in person, and experiencing India’s culture, religion, people, and history, has been amazing. I’m loving every moment!
Only a few more days to go… Jaipur and my birthday are next! But not before an adventure in the Ranthombore Tiger Resort.
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