Taj Mahal

In the early 17th century, Shah Jahan, India's Mughal king, lost his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The grieving king constructed the Taj Mahal as a tomb in her memory. The Taj Mahal is made from white marble stone with precious gems and stones embedded in its walls. The morning light makes the marble appear pink; during daytime the marble appears white, and then golden during sunset. The four pillars (called minarets) around the main dome are tilted slightly outward so that they would fall away from the central tomb in case they collapse. The enormous reflecting pool reflects the Taj Mahal, thus doubling the beauty of this magnificent landmark.

The Taj is located in Agra, which is a

three-hour drive south of Delhi.

Even on a cloudy day, the Taj Mahal is beautiful. 

The Taj Mahal attracts tourists from all around the world! 

Tourists are prohibited from bringing anything near the Taj, except for cameras.

Thousands of artisans and craftsmen 

were employed to build the Taj. 

Here is a detail of inlaid precious stones. 

Look closely. You can see the Taj Mahal 
from the Red Fort. 
Do you see it?

This is a view of the Taj Mahal from behind. Notice how visitors must wear cloth slippers or go barefoot. Shoes are not permitted.

The reflecting pool doubles the beauty 

of the Taj Mahal.

To read more about the Taj Mahal, you might want to read National Geographic.