We hired a private driver in Delhi for the next 3 weeks to ensure we can get to all the locations we want to see. After a 5 hour drive to Agra we checked into our hotel to get an early night ready for our visit to the Taj Mahal the next day.

The Taj Mahal (from Persian and Arabic, “crown of palaces”, is a white marble mausoleum located on the southern bank of the Yamuna River in the Indian city of Agra. It was commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan (reigned 1628–1658) to house the tomb of his favourite wife of three, Mumtaz Mahal.

The monumental, red sandstone wall and entry gate, is impressive in itself, keeping the majestic elegance of the Taj Mahal a secret until one passes through.

When we step through the gate I am genuinely delighted and impressed by the pristine beauty and symmetry of the “most beautiful building in the world.”  It was like being transported into a different era. We were surrounded by lush green gardens and magnificent Mughal architecture. It is absolutely majestic.

The Taj Mahal is breath-taking and the structure looked divine with its white marble gleaming against the clear blue sky.  We try to no avail to get some photos without hoards of tourists in the background.  Our guide hurries us along to the famous Princess Diana bench and encourages a series of cheesy photos. Posing like Princess Diana, taking a shot of the Taj Mahal reflected in our sunglasses, holding our hands up to hold the impressive palace between our hands.