I can remember looking at pictures of the Taj Mahal in my 3rd grade history book as I listened to the story of why it was built. Visiting the Taj was always one of those “it would be nice but probably won’t happen” trips. And for the past number of years, I have learned that seeing “the sights” was always a happier experience when my wife and family could join. But being in India gave me that lifetime opportunity to go so I went. My friends Wendy, Donnette, and Tony joined me for an eventful weekend. We had many adventures and fun time. Hopefully I will be able to go again, but with my wife and kids.
We traveled into Delhi by air. We rented a driver and a guide to show us as much as possible in 20 hours. In Delhi we visited the India Gate, the President’s home and Parliament, and the Lotus Temple. The traffic we very similar to Bangalore, but the temperature was a little hot. It was pushing 55 Celsius. I am not sure just how hot that is, but I just know it was hot.
Our travel to Agra lasted about 5 hours. The driving tour provided many looks into the landscape and way of life in India. For many it is not an easy life, and that is based on anyone’s standard. We made it into Agra to see the Taj and sunset from across the river. We had a lot of fun trying to get just the right picture as well as the poses right. We were also able to view a Hindu Pyre ceremony from across the river. I have never seen that before; kind of doubt I will again. Other sites included Agra Fort and another “Baby Taj”. I can’t recall what Mongol emperor built it, but it was cool to see. I think it was the grandfather of the woman that the Taj was built for originally.
The next day we made the decision to see the Taj at sunrise with a new guide. It was truly a remarkable experience. I was amazed at the sheer enormity of the Taj, as the complete symmetry. The pictures I took just do not fully capture the 400 year old building in its complete beauty.
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