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Yamuna Boat Ride Agra Tour

Are you ready to embrace the enchanting adventure hidden beside the Taj Mahal?

Let’s get you on a journey that whispers the endless secrets of Agra’s Aquatic legacy. With your camera in hand and adventurous spirit in your heart, this Taj Mahal boat ride tour gives you an opportunity to know the heritage of the Yamuna River and experience the history and beauty weaved in the water and on the riverfront. 

Boating near the Taj Mahal unveils the mesmerizing tales of Agra gardens and the rivers surrounding them as our expert guides unfold vivid stories of nature. Witness the ancient warmth of Yamuna’s tranquil waters and the enticing bond between agra and the rivers that breathes a unique significance into the life of the city. Rewrite your vision of Agra’s history after this enthralling boating in Agra tour! 

Endless memories await to cherish; Let's sail! 

Why will you Love Boating in Agra?

Get ready to lose your soul in the essence of this breathing city; as you discover its aquatic beauty and rich history on the Yamuna River during the Taj Mahal Boat Ride.

• Witness the extraordinary bond shared by Agra and the Yamuna River; a divine connection that nurtures the city’s spirit.
• Get valuable insight into Agra’s River history and other educational experiences with the trill of boating in Agra.
• Feel the “Get-Away” moment as you slip into the serene beauty of Yamuna River, sailing away from Dusshera Ghat and catch the Taj Mahal with a unique and mesmerizing view.
• A chance to glancing City’s grandeur from a different angle and regular walking tour approach; Embrace divine connection as your soak in the serenity of surrounding.
• Gain a deep understanding as you dive into the profound historical and cultural significance and see how Yamuna River shapes Agra’s past.

Khan-e-Alam Bagh

Get a chance to step through the pages of history as we lead you to Khan-e-Alam; A captivating garden full of blossoming tales. Discover the mystical design and valuable insight into the water system that nourishes the divine beauty of the Taj Mahal.

Dusshera Ghaat

Experience the earthy portal to divinity; Let our expert guide take you on a delightful Agra boat ride as they unravel magnificent scenarios. Let the essence of Yamuna’s River peace envelops your sense, and the whispers of the city’s history paint you a vivid picture.

Included/Excluded

• Local English-speaking guide
• Boat ride along the Yamuna River
• Entry/admission fees, wherever required
• Transportation from the hotel
• Personal expenses

Why Choose Taj Mahal Boat Ride?

Experience the magic of history, culture, and India's heritage on a private Taj Mahal Boat Ride. Our unique tour option makes it convenient for you. A great deal to treat your inner explorer; here’s why to choose us-

Immense exploration - A direct step into the heart of Agra’s irresistible culture. Wander through the hidden alleys and local market while letting the sight, sound and smell beguile you and leave you with countless memories. 

Flexible Pace - No need to wait or rush; you can walk at your own pace, taking a deeper interest in intriguing places, embracing the nature of delving into the culture 

Fascinating engagement - You can forge meaningful connections with the locals and interact to understand their perspective and lifestyle more warmly. 

Unique experience - A golden opportunity to see Agra Up close, A chance to escape the ordinary car tours and enjoy the fresh angles of the city’s beauty or get lost in the spectacular expression of royal heritage 

Intimate culture interaction - You can dance with the pulse of Agra, Feel the magic of the city’s rhythm and absorb the sounds, flavours and essence to create lifetime memories. 

Eco-Friendly - A chance to explore the city guilt-free, and walk under the enchantment of nature, keeping harmony with a safe environment. 

Why choose Trocals?

Let’s lead on a world of discovery, adventure and exploration on foot with Trocals; As we move from streets to historical buildings to religious places, Trocals transforms all your travel dreams into an exciting reality. Let us tell you why Trocals are the ultimate travel companion for you. 

• Beyond the touristry, our tours are precisely curated to dive into the authenticity of your destination. 
• Our Passionate and expert local guides are competent storytelling who accompany you with their in-depth knowledge.
• Following Quality over Quantity, we keep the group small, fostering a friendly and effective travel atmosphere. 
• We offer you wide flexibility to tailor your tour accordingly to your personal interest; all you have to do is Ask.
• We are committed to providing responsible and sustainable service, ensuring our walk tours leave not only footprints but also priceless memories.
• From comfortable accommodation to hassle-free transportation to a soothing trip, we are here handling the logistics while you can live in the moment.

Trocals don’t just show you the world, but they let you experience it in all authenticity. With each of your feet wandering, your heart explores, and the soul of your inner explorer thrives!

The question is, are you ready to let the tour of a lifetime tale unfold?

Additional Information

Are you all geared up for the exciting tour coming up? We want to ensure that we are on the same page by making sure you are aware of all the significant details you need to avoid any future inconvenience. Here are some crucial things you should know 

• If you are a spontaneous planner and want to book the tour within 24 hours, we will wave our magic wand and provide you with a confirmation as soon as possible based on availability. 
• Unfortunately, our tours are not suitable for individuals using wheelchairs.
• With the practice of providing a comfortable journey for your whole family, we provide infant chairs to ensure their safety during the tour. Please note that infants must sit on their laps. 
• Your well-being is our top priority, so if you are pregnant or have any serious medical condition, such as heart-related problems, we recommend you not participate in the tour. 
• It’s always best to keep your identification document handy, which is why to keep your current ID, a copy of your passport or your driver's license for hassle-free adventure. 
• We adore the company of young explorers, which is why we offer free of charge tours for children under 14 years. The standard fees will apply to the participant aged 14 and above. 
• The group will include the sole participants in the particular tour or activity, ensuring the private tour terms as we offer a personalized experience to all our travel companion preferences.

Cancellation Policy

Traveller’s Peace of Mind is our uttermost priority, and we understand that plans can change unexpectedly, which is why Trocals offers booking that can be adaptable as your trip anticipation

• We believe in transparency, which is why you can cancel the tour anytime you want 
• A full refund will be initiated if you cancel at least 24 hours prior to the tour start time
• We offer you to secure your booking without any upfront payment 
• We won’t be able to provide a full refund for cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour start time. 

How Long did the Taj Mahal Boat ride tour last?

Taj Mahal Boat Ride tour is curated to last somewhere between 2 to 3 hours; As our experts try to reveal the exquisite beauty of the city’s standing on the riverfront, narrate the fascinating history of Agra, and let you witness the ethereal beauty of the Taj Mahal in a unique perspective.

Can I capture photos of the Taj Mahal during the boat ride?

Absolutely, that is what the tour is about; You will get to experience the heavenly beauty of the Taj Mahal from a different and unique angle, which gives you a delightful opportunity to capture the array of stunning images of the Taj Mahal from the boat.  

Is anything specific needed for the Yamuna Boating Agra tour?

Nothing in particular, you are advised to be clothed comfortably and coat yourself with sunscreen; and also carry sunglasses. Just this and a pinch of adventure; and woohoo, you are all set for the Agra Boating Ride. 

Can I bring the kids on the boat tour?

The Taj Mahal Boat Ride tour is designed for people of all ages, and it's quite a thrilling family-friendly experience. We take all the safety measures while boating near the Taj Mahal, keeping security, serenity, and a sense of adventure all mingling together. 

Taj Mahal, the heart of Agra, is an eternal beauty that carries a breathtaking tale of true love; Let’s look beyond with an unforgettable journey- A boot tour by the Taj Mahal! Not just a tour but an opportunity to wander along the Yamuna River serenity and imprint our hearts with Agra’s exquisite beauty 

Let’s enjoy the adventure and tranquility of water!

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Hi I’m Natali from Indonesia. May I know do you have a boat rent for 4 people to see the view of Taj Mahal for 8 November 2022? If yes, may I see the picture of the boat and the price of it. Thank you

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B-3 Rahul Vihar, Shamshabad Road, Agra, India

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Sunrise or Sunset View of Taj Mahal on Yamuna River Boat Ride

• Description

Opt for an unobstructed view of the Taj Mahal on a sunset or sunrise Yamuna River boat ride from Agra. A great way to beat the large crowds that often block the entrance to the romantic monument, this tour guarantees fantastic photos of this world wonder. Choose from a morning or afternoon departure, and receive personalised attention from your guide in a small group limited to one to five. It takes between 10 and 15 minutes to walk from the location to the Boat Ride point.

Pickup & Drop point

Hotel Amar Villas (Oberoi) (Near Taj East Gate Road), Agra

Pickup & Drop time (Summer)

Morning Sunrise Departures 6:00am, 6:30am, 7:00am, 7:30am, 8:00am

Afternoon Sunset Departures: 4:30pm, 5:00pm, 5:30pm, 6:00pm

Pickup & Drop time (Winter)

Morning Sunrise Departures 7:00am, 7:30am, 8:00am, 8:30am

Afternoon Sunset Departures: 4:00pm, 4:30pm, 5:00pm, 5:30pm

Alternate times are available. Please provide your requested departure time during checkout.

15 – 20 minutes (approx.)

• Sunrise or sunset Taj Mahal boat ride on the Yamuna River from Agra
• Enjoy unobstructed views of the Taj Mahal and avoid huge crowds
• See the monument at its most magical: when the sun rises or sets
• Our guide will meet you at the pickup point.

Sunrise or Sunset View of Taj Mahal on Yamuna River Boat Ride A boat ride is one of the best ways to appreciate the beauty of Agra. This 20- 30-minute ride on a traditional Indian style boat takes you on the river Yamuna, from which you can appreciate the magnificent view of the Taj Mahal. You can enjoy this activity during sunrise or sunset.

Meet your guide at the meeting point at your selected departure time. It takes between 10 and 15 minutes to walk from the location to the Boat Ride point, behind the Taj Mahal.  Your 20-30-minute boat ride will commence on Yamuna River, where you can appreciate the magnificence and beauty of the iconic Taj Mahal. Relax, take photos, and appreciate the romantic sunrise or sunset view. You can have up to 5 people in the same boat. After finishing your boat ride, you have the option of visiting the rooftop of a restaurant near Taj Mahal. Otherwise, you will back to the starting point.

Hotel pickup and drop-off is not included but can be arranged an at additional cost.

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Agra Sunset Boat Ride in Yamuna River

Explore Agra boat ride trip with full-day Taj Mahal tour. Visit Taj Mahal during sunrise and sunset boat ride on Yamuna river. Also, visit other monuments in Agra which include Agra Fort, Etmad-Ud-Daulla or Baby Taj Mahal and Mehtab Bagh. At the end of the day, enjoy the incredible sunset view of Taj Mahal from the boat ride.

Our driver will pick you up at 5:30 A.M. from your hotel. Visit Taj Mahal and witness the mesmerizing beauty of the monument during the sunrise. Taj Mahal is one of the seven wonders of the world. One of the biggest man-made symbol of love. Our experienced and professional guides will explain all the mysteries and its architecture.

After Taj Mahal, head towards the Agra Fort. This red sandstone building is UNESCO world heritage site. It shows off some of the most beautiful pavilions and impressive architectures. Ask anything about the architecture or about the history of the buildings to our guides.

When done with Agra Fort, visit Etmad-Ud-Daula (Baby Taj Mahal) and Mehtab Bagh (Moonlight Garden). Etmad-Ud-Daula is also situated on the banks of Yamuna. It is also known as Baby Taj Mahal because of the resemblance of the Minars. The monument flashes beautiful stonework, called as Pietra Dura and latticework. We will visit Mehtab Bagh ( Moonlight Garden) for the romantic and astonishing view of the Taj Mahal. Mehtab Bagh is located across the river Yamuna. It is one of the perfect places to view the Taj Mahal without the crowd.

Have lunch at local restaurant. After lunch, explore local Agra crafts and art. Agra is famous for its handicrafts variation and leather products. Paintings, pottery, handicrafts and other artistic works from different parts of the country.

By the evening, you will get Agra boat ride trip in Yamuna River. It is one of the best ways to enjoy the sunset view of the Taj Mahal. This will be half hour ride on a traditional Indian styled boat. At the end of the tour, our driver will drop you off at your hotel.

• Sightseeing by air-conditioned Private Vehicle
• Professional Tour Guide
• Hotel Transfers in Agra
• All taxes and handling charges
• sunset boat ride in Yamuna River

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For Any Questions Write us at [email protected]

“Taj mahal spettacolare” Mi è venuto a prendere in hotel puntualissimo con una bella auto Buona guida non spericolata con acqua a disposizione in auto viaggio comodo ad agra ad attenderci una guida molto preparata e brava ho pagato 1000 reale direttamente a lui per vedere il taj mahal ci sarei stata un giorno intero a guardarlo eccezionale da vedere assolutamente Translation -  "Spectacular Taj mahal" picked up at the hotel punctually with a nice car Good guide not reckless with water available in the car travel convenient to agra to expect a very prepared and good guide I paid 1000 real directly to him to see the taj mahal I would have been a whole day to watch it exceptional to see absolutely Angelita – Roma, Italy Day Trip to Agra from Delhi: Taj Mahal and Agra Fort Read More Testimonials

“Incredible and fantastic” Booked my trip with ultra short notice, which was no problem. The driver, Raquesh (?), turned up pn time at 06:00 a.m. to collect me from my hotel in Delhi. His English was limited, although we could communicate. He was a great driver. The car was airconditioned. Upon arrival Nazeem (?) welcomed us. Saw the awesome Taj Mahal and "baby Taj Mahal" as well as Agra Fort. All of this just incredible. Thereafter we went to a marble shop, not a souvenir shop, as you would probably expect. This was a marble / precious stone very small workshop, where they produced the beautiful marble pieces covered with precious stones. Items were fantastic and for some maybe a bit expensive. A large item weighting more than 50 kg, was sold at USD 27000. I bought a mug with 819 extremely tiny precious stones (29 different stones and colours), all meticulously input into the carvings on the mug by hand. I paid several hundred USD for this fantastic mug. The return trip to Delhi went smoothly. An IndiaByLocals Customer – United States Day Trip to Agra from Delhi: Taj Mahal and Agra Fort Read More Testimonials

“A wonderful way to see and experience 2 beautiful cities in 3 days!” I recently came back from my trip with Kaimur Holidays, and I was so impressed by their efficient service and generous attitude. I felt well taken care of and the company was easily accessible via Whatsapp so I didn't have to worry. I really got to experience the life and culture of India during those few days, and the boat ride at sunrise on the Ganges River in Varanasi was breathtaking. My long time dream of seeing the Taj Mahal has finally been fulfilled, and it was a blessing to have an English speaking guide tell us about the story behind Agra Fort, Baby Taj, and Taj Mahal. The restaurants they took us to had good and clean Indian food, many other tourists could be seen there as well. The overnight train ride was an unforgettable experience, with air conditioning and pull out loft beds to sleep on while enjoying the Indian scenery. I thoroughly enjoyed my experience with the personal customer care I received, and felt thankful for their flexibility. I recommend others to try! An IndiaByLocals Customer – Hong Kong Agra and Varanasi Private 3-day Tour: Taj Mahal & Ganga Read More Testimonials

“Super organisierte Tour, mit netten Fahrer und Guides!!!” Translation - "Super organized tour, with nice drivers and guides !!!" Okan – Unterfoehring, Germany Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur: 4-Day Golden Triangle Tour Read More Testimonials

“Muy bueno el servicio, destacables el profesionalismo” Muy bueno Translation - "Very good service, outstanding professionalism" very good ROGER – Argentina Day Trip to Agra from Delhi: Taj Mahal and Agra Fort Read More Testimonials

“The most amazing building ever seen” Take your time, walk around, a seat on the garden benches, and imagine the entire history of this place. It is the love story of all times, converted into architecture Santiago – United States Agra: Full-Day City Tour with Taj Mahal Read More Testimonials

“Excellent” Our guide Juti and driver picked us up on time for sunrise at the Taj. Juti was very informative and helpful and our driver drove very well. The two worked well as a team in ensuring that we were never kept waiting. We wouldn’t hesitate to use them again. An IndiaByLocals Customer – Canada Agra: Full-Day City Tour with Taj Mahal Read More Testimonials

“Amazing!!!!!!!!!!!” We Had an amazing day with our tour guide and he was super easygoing. When we changed our minds and didn’t wanna do one activity he had no problem of changing the plans, he basically took us wherever we wanted and got to see a super nice fabric and jewelry store and also a nice dinner and when we wanted a break they dropped us at the hostel and picked us up later. I would deffo reccommend this since it’s so chilled and they go by what you want to do! And the Taj Mahal experience is so much better with a guide because you don’t get any history otherwise. And Agra can be a bit shit to get around but we were driven in a nice car with AC and that was appreciated , we even got water from our guide. He’s was an awesome guy! We booked for 2 but had a friend wanting to join and there was no problem. The “authentic Indian breakfast” was super nice... spicy and real!! Would never have gone there if it wasn’t for this tour. Cheers from Kristin, sweden Kristin – Sweden Agra: Full-Day City Tour with Taj Mahal Read More Testimonials

“Very good service” Very good service. Very good driver (Gurmeet) he tooks care me very well And drive carefully. They could manage quickly And well And try to give satisfaction at your every wish or point of interest. Me for exemple I like gem so I could buy And all are true one that mean you can be confident. Thanks to the guide in agra (Asif) in jaipur and sikri. Only one thing maybe to add to you program the visit of temple of the most important religions of your country. Laurent – France Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur: 4-Day Golden Triangle Tour Read More Testimonials

“I would recommend to a friend.” I enjoyed my guide. He did not talk too much, nor too little. And he had good information to share. My driver was also good as well. In addition, he knew good locations to take photos from. Charles – United States Agra: Full-Day City Tour with Taj Mahal Read More Testimonials

“really good” The ride from Delhi was gone, good driver, good car. Our guide in Agra,was excellent, Asia He took care of all that was needed, especially for my disability. His information about the Taj Mahal was clear and accurate. His English was fine. I had to cut the trip short because of illness, and he even arranged a,special ride to my next destination Donald – Tucson Arizona, United States Day Trip to Agra from Delhi: Taj Mahal and Agra Fort Read More Testimonials

“Perfect day” The program was ideal: sunrise at the taj - breakfast at the hotel - Agra fort - baby taj - rest at the hotel - sunset: the taj seen from a pontoon (excellent suggestion from the guide). The guide (Sameer, of Kaiser Holidays) was very good, explained well, but without overdoing it. I can recommend him to anybody visiting Agra. And Kaimur Holidays organized everything without a singe glitch. Mark – Switzerland Agra: Full-Day City Tour with Taj Mahal Read More Testimonials

“Ashok and Shanu get all the credit!” First of all, it was so great to get a phone call reminder and a text confirmation with the driver information the day before. Equally was my amazing driver Ashok being right on time. He did an incredible job on our journey, sharing stories of India, historical spots and more. As soon as we got to Agra, we met Shanu who was an exceptional guide. He is knowledgable, easy going and great to share the experience with. he indulged me with a few selfies, too. Recommend to anyone if you're in the area and will cross my fingers that you get as lucky as I did with Ashok and Shanu. Leslie – Pittsburgh, United States Day Trip to Agra from Delhi: Taj Mahal and Agra Fort Read More Testimonials

“Pretty good tour guide” Very nice tour guide and very informative. Also totally responsible for our schedule. Cornelius – Malaysia Agra: Full-Day City Tour with Taj Mahal Read More Testimonials

“THIS TOUR WAS AN INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE!” Our guides were so informative, all very smart with masters degrees in Indian History and English. Our driver, Puri was so kind and efficient and catered to our needs 100%. The guides and driver got us to and from every location promptly. We got to see every sight we planned on seeing and more. We felt very safe and were treated like royalty. This tour is unique because every thing is customizable. We were able to plan out exactly what we wanted to do each day, where we wanted to stay, where we wanted to have meals, etc. and the company followed suit. Our driver and guides quickly transformed from strangers to family. We had a nice dinner with our guide Shan Ali and our driver Puri in Agra where we learned about indian culture and foods, which you don't get in a normal superficial golden triangle tour. It was more intimate and friendly, rather than guided and stiff. I highly recommend this tour for anyone looking for a bang for their buck. We are so thankful for this opportunity! 🙂 Kyle – Atlantic Beach, United States Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur: 4-Day Golden Triangle Tour Read More Testimonials

“Very well organised” Great day out, worth a visit to the Taj Mahal at least once in a lifetime Richard – United Kingdom Day Trip to Agra from Delhi: Taj Mahal and Agra Fort Read More Testimonials

Excellent tour! Fun and experienced guides. Thank you for a great day. Maria – United States Day Trip to Agra from Delhi: Taj Mahal and Agra Fort Read More Testimonials

“A great day in Agra” It was a very informative and comfortable tour to The Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and The Baby Taj. Was very well planned by the local tour guide and we were always in time but never in a hurry. Our guide was very experienced and told many new things about all the monuments, history of the city etc. We were always given extra time for clicking pics and enjoying our time at the monuments. Lunch was in a good restaurant and we enjoyed it. Overall a great activity. Prasad – India Agra: Full-Day City Tour with Taj Mahal Read More Testimonials

“Prompt and well customisable service.” We where picked up from our hotel promptly as promised, then driven to see Taj Mahal at the sunrise. Afterwards we where able to customise our plans for rest of the day. Service where courteous and very informative. Juha – United Kingdom Agra: Full-Day City Tour with Taj Mahal Read More Testimonials

“Solo in Agra” I had a driver Mr Gurmeet and tour guide Mr Sameer and they were both great. Mr Gurmeet was lovely! He made sure there was always a water bottle for me in the car and he also had a bowl of sweets, hand wipes, tissues.. so considerate of my comfort. Mr Sameer was very knowledgeable and gave me great insight into the places that we visited. Definitely, recommend 🙂 Vicki – New Zealand Agra: Full-Day City Tour with Taj Mahal Read More Testimonials

FYI – We can also help you with the best Tour Guide ,  AirBnB ,  Hotel ,  Shopping ,  Agra Tours .

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Taj Mahal Sunset/Sunrise Boat Ride Agra

• Book the tour

Opt for an unobstructed view of the Taj Mahal Sunset/Sunrise Boat Ride , Yamuna River boat ride Agra . A great way to beat the large crowds that often block the entrance to the romantic monument, Taj Mahal Sunset/Sunrise Boat Ride tour guarantees fantastic photos of the world wonder. Choose from a morning or afternoon departure, and receive personalized attention from your guide in a small group limited to five.

Alternate times are available. Please provide your requested departure time during checkout.

Available To Book! This Tour Is An All-Time Available, Book Now, Or Anytime. We Also Accept Last Minute Bookings.

Private Tour! – With Private Air Conditioned Car, No Other Guest Will Join.

Taj Mahal Sunset/Sunrise Boat Ride is one of the best ways to appreciate the beauty of Agra. This 30-minute ride on a traditional Indian style boat takes you on the river Yamuna, from which you can appreciate the magnificent view of the Taj Mahal. You can enjoy this activity during sunrise or sunset.

Meet your guide at the meeting point at your selected departure time. Get fitted for a bicycle and helmet and ride for about 1 km to the departure point of your boat ride, behind the Taj Mahal.  Your 30-minute boat ride will commence on Yamuna River, where you can appreciate the magnificence and beauty of the iconic Taj Mahal. Relax, take photos, and appreciate the romantic sunrise or sunset view. You can have up to 5 people in the same boat.  After finishing your boat ride, you have the option of visiting the Taj Mahal. Otherwise, you will back to the starting point. Hotel pickup and drop-off is not included but can be arranged an at additional cost.

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Taj Mahal Boat Tour Agency

Taj Mahal Boat Tour Agency is a tour operator, boat tour agency, car leasing service and taxi service located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. The average rating of this place is 4.40 out of 5 stars based on 37 reviews. The street address of this place is opposite hotel amar vilas tajmahal east gate 25 hours coffe club .agra, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, India. It is about 1.70 kilometers away from the Yamuna Bridg railway station.

Neha Panwar 46 months ago An epitome of love! You have to visit it once and see for yourself and I bet you will become speechless like I am right now. It's million times more beautiful than in any pictures taken! Indeed Mesmerizing. An excellent sovinier of Mughals! Exceptionally marvellous, Undoubtedly.

Shadaab Khan 34 months ago Taj Mahal is one of the 7 wonders of the world. Taj Mahal has been reopened for tourists after Lockdown, but certain guidelines has been set by the Government. Please check online for updates before visiting.

Kreative Mindez 34 months ago Great monument finally we watched its awesome place this mugal Structure is unique and other I aslo love surrounding and behind scenes of taj mahal and yamuna

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A Sunset Boat Ride at the Taj Mahal

• Last Updated March 17, 2024
• India , Asia

Slinking along the banks of the Yamuna river, it felt like we were in the middle of the world’s most inept drug deal. I anxiously surveyed the small, concrete jetty in the hopes of finding the man I was looking for. Our hostel receptionist had assured me he would be here.

Dusshera ghat is eerily quiet compared to Agra’s centre. Just a few hundred metres away, throngs of tourists pour through the eastern gate of Shah Jahan’s masterpiece to the calls and yells of vendors hawking trinkets or guided tours. Down on the river bank, the only sign of life was a couple of old men huddled on a cluster of stone benches, chain-smoking, while another slumps perpendicular to them, half comatose and staring into space, as if unaware that right behind him was the world’s most beautiful building.

It makes me wonder if the sight of the Taj Mahal has become mundane to them – just a part of everyday life. I suppose that seeing it every day would become a law of diminishing returns, just another piece of scenery in the background of your life.

The calm is only broken by the constant drone of singing emanating from a tiny Hindu temple that sits on the ghat. At well-timed intervals, a man in flowing white and orange robes emerges and slowly walks its perimeter, hands clasped as if in prayer, towards a bell in its furthest doorway. Each time, he pulls it sharply with one swift ding that rang out loudly over the Yamuna.

I continue to scan my surroundings until one of the resting men locks eyes with me. He slowly removes the dog-eared cigarette end from his clasped mouth – something you can tell he very rarely does – and flashed me a wide smile with his yellow, tobacco-stained teeth.

“You here for a boat ride?” I try to nod discreetly, as not to alert the two policemen that have just wandered around the corner of the temple and into view.

Officially, it’s illegal to take tourists for boat trips on the Yamuna. Earlier, when planning this little excursion, I had asked around to gauge whether a boat trip was possible and the best answer that I was given as to why it was not, is that it was for ‘security reasons’. Security for what, I was unsure. Whether this was to prevent an armada of tourist vessels descending on the Taj’s rear, scaling its outer wall and thus avoiding the 1,000 rupee entry fee, or protection against more nefarious terrorist incidents, I’ll never know. However, it made it increasingly difficult for me to achieve my goal of seeing the mausoleum from the water.

While questioning our hostel receptionist about the matter, I had spotted a sign on the notice board; ‘Sunset boat rides – 200 rupees each.” Each time I had inquired about the sign, I was told that the tours were not running. I decided to take the matter into my own hands.

The smiling man makes me feel a little more at ease. His slicked-back hair, long billowing scarf, and incredibly thin roll-up cigarettes give him the air of an ageing bohemian or an Indian dandy. Ignoring the nearby authorities he casually tells me that it would cost 100 rupees each. He motions for me to wait, he won’t be long.

I position myself on a bench by the water as he slowly hobbles towards the bank. The cacophonous pounding of the temple’s drum circle becomes more frequent, the chanting increasingly intense, the sound growing ominous. At regular intervals, the robed man appears again, rings the bell, and then returns to his building. I watch as a man emerges from the temple, places a small stack of stale chapatis on a concrete platform and then stands back. A rowdy flurry of fur and teeth arrives in the form of Rhesus Macaques to devour his delivery. When they’re sated, they scurry back into the trees. The man quickly empties another plastic bag of treats onto the platform for the whole charade to begin again.

Down by the water, our captain proceeds to untether his dinghy and assist two men, arms loaded with bulging plastic bags, aboard. With just a dozen swift pushes of his punt, he propels them to the opposite shore. For many locals, this is the only way of crossing the Yamuna. Bridges are few and far between.

The previous evening I had caught my first real glimpse of the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh gardens on the river’s north bank. Although it is only a few hundred metres from the mausoleum, getting there and back is a 16 km round trip, taking 20 minutes each way and costing around 150 rupees on an overpriced tuk-tuk. It requires travelling a few kilometres west of the city, crossing the Ambedkar bridge, and then making your way back eastwards to the Taj Mahal viewpoint.

Mehtab Bagh is beautiful; a long, lush green lawn dotted with flowering bushes designed to mirror the Taj Mahals own decorative gardens. Legend says that Mughal emperor Shah Jahan long planned an exact copy of the Taj to be built in the spot as a tomb for himself, only made entirely of black marble. The idea originates from the fanciful writings of Jean-Baptiste Tavernier, a European traveller who visited Agra in 1665. It was suggested that Shah Jahan was overthrown by his son Aurangzeb before it could be built.

I wasn’t the only person to have the idea of watching the sunset from the gardens. A few hundred other tourists and teenage Indian couples – hoping to picnic and canoodle in the relatively discrete setting of the garden’s orchards – were already there. We worked our way through the stalls selling trinkets, overpriced drinks and Taj Mahal snow globes. Why anyone thought these were a viable souvenir, I’ll never know. I’m not sure it has ever even snowed in Agra beyond the last ice-age but even still, I couldn’t help but be drawn to their kitschness.

Beside the entrance stood a man with his camel, urging tourists to gaze upon it. I wandered over to take a photograph, expecting the usual sales pitch for camel rides or hassle to pay for a photograph but he wasn’t offering either of these things. He just wanted people to look at his camel. To be honest, I’m not sure what his angle was, but he certainly hasn’t quite grasped the Indian ability to exploit the tourist dollar of the thousands of tourists that travel India’s  Golden Triangle each day.

That evening I sat in silence with dozens of other people, gazing in awe at history’s greatest monument to love. Everyone was reverent, avoiding making a sound so as not to interfere with the moment. Finally, I was able to see it in all its humongous scale and glory. In the distance, the people circling the Taj within its grounds were dwarfed by its size. The buildings creator once said that “It made the sun and the moon shed tears from their eyes.” I don’t doubt him.

Gradually the light faded, casting an orange-pink glow on the building’s marble dome. Beside me, a newly married couple dressed to the nines in colourful, Indian wedding attire broke away from their wedding photographers to embrace in front of the view. They couldn’t look away, and neither could I.

Back in our vessel, to my dismay, our captain proceeds to take a bucket and scoop water from the boat’s hull. It seems a little dilapidated; unpainted and splintered, creaking under its own weight. I get the impression that it is barely fit to float, but in moments like this, beggars can’t be choosers. I step aboard, the whole vessel swaying and the ageing boards creaking beneath my feet. With one swift push, we set sail.

By now the daylight is beginning to fade, giving the water a glistening, golden hue. Our boatman deftly punts us toward’s the river’s centre, still clasping his ragged cigarette between his teeth. As soon as he is done with it, he flicks it out into the water and pulls another from his breast pocket, popping it into his mouth and igniting it without missing a beat.

Slowly, the boat spins around to face our launch point. The Taj looks even more breathtaking than it did the night before – A resplendent, pure white monument to lost love. It is an image I have seen a thousand times on television and in magazines, but only seeing it here before my own eyes, with a perfect but undulating copy reflected in the Yamuna, does its intricacy and scale really hit home.

I feel like I could stare in awe forever. As the sun lowers in the sky, the orange glow projected on the Taj intensifies, turning its pure white dome into a kaleidoscope of colour. It makes me think of thee men, sitting on the ghat and ignoring the wonder of the world that sits beside them, so used to its presence that they have become immune to its beauty. At this moment, I couldn’t imagine ever finding the sight of this building mundane.

India Essentials

When travelling, there are certain brands and resources that I always rely on when booking things like flights, accommodation and tours. Here are my recommendations.

Mobile Data and SIM Cards

Prepaid eSIM’s are a great way of accessing affordable data and staying connected while travelling. I use and recommend Airalo.

Booking Accommodation in India

When securing accommodation abroad, I almost always rely on Booking.com as they have everything from rental properties to homestays and luxury hotels.

Most cities in India also have a good range of hostels for the budget traveller and some of the country’s largest chains such as Moustache and Zostel have outposts here. I always use Hostelworld when booking my bed in hostel dorms.

Train Travel in India

Thanks to India’s extensive rail network, the country is best explored by train, however, booking rail tickets in India can be slightly confusing when using local booking services. The cheapest and easiest way of securing tickets is via 12GO, who allow you to search for journeys and book trains easily.

Tours in India

Many of India’s cities are vast, sprawling and chaotic, meaning that they are best seen with the help of a local guide. Whether you are planning an adventurous day trip or a delectable food tour, Get Your Guide and Viator have a huge number of options.

Travel Insurance

Dave McClane

David McClane is a photographer and travel writer based in Leeds, UK. Since first picking up a camera on a yearlong journey through Central and South America in 2014/2015, He has carefully documented his travels through almost 50 countries.

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Mate, this is a gem of an article. Cheers!

I’m so in love with the way you write! Do you have any published books yet?

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Taj Mahal Private Tour of Agra the Majestic Wonder of Maharajas

Like moths to an eternal flame, tourists are drawn to this wondrous place home of the Taj Mahal. A Taj Mahal private tour of Agra the majestic wonder of Maharajas, allows you to witness Indias most famous resident in all her glory and she never disappoints.   

Mere words are not enough to describe its remarkable beauty, grace, and elegance.   Who doesn't want their photograph taken here??

Agra, however, is not just the Taj Mahal it has many other attractions left over from the glory days of the rule of the Mughal Empire.   

Straddling the holy Yamuna River, Agra has its fair share of other spectacular mausoleums and tombs and, although overshadowed, they are still fascinating in their own right.

A part of Indias Golden Triangle which includes Delhi and Jaipur , it forms an important component of the tourism industry here and is on most people's holiday bucket list.   

Often overlooked though is the fact that India also holds two other UNESCO World Heritage Sites just as impressive and important.   The mystic ruined city of Fatehpur Sikri and Mathura the most famous Hindu Pilgrimage Centre which should also be visited.

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Same Day Taj Mahal Private Tour From Delhi

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Visit Taj Mahal on a Private Tour With Luxurious Experience by Toyota Fortuner

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2 Day Guided Golden Triangle Private Tour From New Delhi

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Private Agra Local Sightseeing Tour by Car and Driver

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Travel Tips for Agra

When making a sightseeing tour of Agra the best time is between November and March when the weather is pleasant and warm, but this is also the travel peak season so can be more expensive and also more crowded. August is monsoon season so may be difficult to reach certain areas. Festivals seem to occur every month so you could get caught up in one especially the most important in February which lasts ten days and is a spectacular display of culture

If your budget is a bit tight, you can easily survive on a budget of 15 USD. Sounds unbelievable? No, it's true if you don’t mind roughing it and eating basic local food. If you have 25 USD then what a luxurious stay you could have. Train and bus journeys are a fabulous experience and cheap as chips however they are massively overcrowded and stuffy. Rickshaws are the local taxis and are an affordable if somewhat rough experience. Tour guides are fab !

Your first job when visiting is to check to see if your country of origin needs a visa to enter India. You need to do this in advance and check your passport has minimum six months still on it. Second is visiting your Doctor to discuss vaccinations. You may need some or have some boosters. Public toilets can be a real eye opener so take plenty of toilet roll and wet wipes and maybe a peg or two.

Weather in April to October can be scorching and uncomfortable especially April to June so if you have a problem with heat then its best to avoid this period. A private tour is best anytime in October to March as the intense heat has passed and the weather is perfect for sightseeing. Make sure when visiting in December or January to take some warm clothing as temperatures can drop to 2º at times. Monsoon season in August to October but still warm

PER PERSON ALL INCLUSIVE*

No adventure to India would be complete without a chance to view its most iconic masterpiece, the marvelous Taj Mahal. Taj Mahal and Agra photoshoot  offered by  Photography Tours India is an opportunity for you to make your visit a lifetime memory. Photoshoots in the Taj Mahal and other monuments are available on request for couples, families, groups and even solo travelers. Assistance with clothing, makeup, jewelry etc. can be provided if required. These photoshoots done by a qualified photographer are an excellent way of having some high-quality pictures taken of you and your loved ones in front of one of seven wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal and other beautiful monuments. Photographs of a photoshoot in Taj Mahal  are professionally edited and provided within a week on Google Drive or email.

Apart from a professional photographer, you will be accompanied by a tour guide who helps you understand the lesser-known details of each place you visit and the rich history of this ancient city. This is an excellent choice for casual as well as dedicated photographers who want to take some memorable professional quality pictures to keep the memories of their trip to the Taj Mahal and photoshoot in Agra fresh for a lifetime.

Instead of worrying about finding good spots for a photoshoot at the Taj Mahal  or how to take them, you can rely on the expertise of your photographer and tour guide to make sure that your photos are the best and will be more than just worth sharing with friends and family on social media.

The objective will be to complete the Taj Mahal and Agra photo shoot in four visits – at sunrise from inside the monument when there are no crowds around; take pictures from the nearby Mehtab Bagh, 2 others from lesser-known vantage points that have been discovered by our founder Travel Duo Harsh and Arti. These vantage points are unparalleled when it comes to serving as the ideal place for a photo shoot. We will include Agra Fort as well to use different palaces as backdrops of your photoshoot. 

You can check our  Instagram  for more photos. 

Important Note

• Currently, we are not accepting bookings where we have to shoot with professional cameras.

Highlights of your journey

New delhi- agra (204 kms/ 3.5 hrs).

• Pickup from Delhi Airport/Hotel and drive to Agra. On arrival, check-in Hotel
• Evening at leisure. You will get an opportunity to buy or hire a beautiful traditional dress to make your Taj Mahal photo shoot more memorable. Back to Hotel early to be prepared for the next day.
• Sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal. Our photographer and guide will give you all the key information and take you to all the best sites for photography to make sure your experience of visiting the Taj Mahal and the  Taj Mahal photo shoot  is as fulfilling as possible.
• Return to Hotel for breakfast. Later photoshoot at Agra Fort– one of the grandest forts in India.
• In the evening, we will shoot sunset and Taj mahal from boat in Yamuna river and a less explored vantage point, to make your photoshoot at Taj Mahal  all the more exceptional. Back to Hotel. Overnight in Agra.

* Taj Mahal is closed on Friday

BOAT TOUR: Please note that this Boat ride totally depend upon the water level at the river during that point of time and its totally subject to availability, weather conditions, securities rule etc. on that particular day.

Agra Departure

Sunrise  photoshoot in Agra  at Mehtab Bagh. Back to Hotel. After breakfast, drive back to Delhi. Departure at Delhi airport/ Hotel.

Photo Gallery

Price details.

• Prices are in USD for Private Tour for minimum of 2 Pax.
• Also available customised tours with/without Hotels.
• This package can be customised as Pre or Post wedding Photoshoot in Agra.

Package Inclusions

• Transport (A/c Toyota Car) to and from New Delhi Hotel/Airport.
• Services of English-speaking Guide
• Services of Professional Photographer
• Entrances of Monuments and other activities mentioned above
• 50 Professional photos from various monuments.
• Unlimited packaged drinking water.

Package Exclusions

• Any airport taxes.
• Any new tax imposed by the Government.
• Any expenditure of personal nature such as tips, drinks, telephone charges, laundry etc.
• Tips to Drivers, Guides, Porters and waiters.
• Any other services not mentioned.

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Agra Local Tour with Taj Mahal

from $30.00

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Itinerary This is a typical itinerary for this product Stop At: Taj Mahal, Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Tajganj, Agra 282001 India Visit the most beautiful monument of india - Taj Mahal. Our guide will help with entry and share history & culture. Duration: 2 hours Stop At: Agra Fort, Rakabgani, Agra 282003 India Enjoy the visit of Agra fort , The most beautiful & grand fort of the mughal time, Also see the area where king use to live and admire the taj mahal from agra fort. Duration: 1 hour Stop At: Mughal Carpet, 198 Fatheabad Raod Near Hotel Ganga Ratan, Agra 282001 India Visit the most recommended weaver community store to see the live rug making process . Duration: 30 minutes Stop At: Mehtab Bagh, Nagla Devjit Etmadpur, Agra India Enjoy the most amazing & rare view of Taj Mahal , over looking the river yamuna at sunset , great moment of amazing pictures. Duration: 30 minutes

Total review count and overall rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews

Reviews by Tripadvisor travelers

Discover34098442333, 2024-08-08

Vinny is the best guide You took a nice picture and you take care of my kids I love her, I love, recommend him for the Taj Mahal to tour

victoriabP9747EH, 2024-07-06

The tour Vinny took us on was wonderful and well thought out. He was very knowledgeable and also had the best photography tips so that we could capture our memories beautifully. I definitely recommend!

700najlam, 2024-07-06

Viny did an amazing job. He was super friendly and took amazing pictures of us! I will certainly recommend his services to my friends and colleagues.

Gloria2Santiago, 2024-05-20

My tour guide and driver were incredible! They were Attentive and informative. Knowledgeable with the history of the Taj Mahal and helpful with taking the best pictures of me, Taj Mahal and the Fort

ainam530, 2024-04-23

We went to the Taj Mahal at 6 am with our guide Imran and were not disappointed. We got to see the Taj Mahal with a beautiful sunrise and Imran was prepared for it, not only did he make the tour enjoyable and full of insights, but he also took great pictures of us. Fully recommend it!

623ninadg, 2024-04-21

I had the privilege of experiencing the Taj Mahal with a knowledgeable guide Imran from Agra. Their expertise brought the monument's history and architecture to life, enriching my visit in ways I couldn't have imagined. Their passion for the Taj Mahal was contagious, making it an unforgettable experience. Highly recommend!"

allanw744, 2024-02-15

I recommend everyone coming to visit Taj and agra to have a driver and a guide. The sites have large crowds who can be pushy. Having guides/driver allows you to enjoy the experience and not stress over the crowds and scams. Shout of to Ashish and cozy for your help. Tldr: - recommend driver and guide for comfort - The guide shows nice vantage points at the Taj and a great sunset view. - The guide will take you to see local shops to help boost the local economy. - all local foreign friendly restaurants and shops are priced high. You must negotiate at these shops. Haggling is part of the local culture. The driver picked us up from the train station and helped us with our bags. We rode in comfort in a larger vehicle by India standards. It had the bells and whistles. Shout out to Ashish for getting us from point a to point b in great comfort. The tour and guide. I have mixed feelings, but essentially I think I personally needed a guide to navigate the crowds, find the best lines and find the best spots at the Taj Mahal for photos and views. Our guide led us to some hidden spots for great photos. Very knowledgeable. After the Taj, this is where the tour structure is in your guide's hands. Based on your requests he can take you to eat at a restaurant or explore shops in Agra to see the local arts. Either way your guide /driver wins. From what I saw all the stores and restaurants rely on tour guides to bring tourists to their shops to help boost the local economy. All the goods are priced high and the tour guide and driver get a percentage of the sales. After all the local stuff the guide gives you an option to see the agra fort or a sunset. The lunch restaurant - He took us to eat lunch. The Indian restaurant (Khan sahab MUTTON 199) is was western foreign friendly. The food wasn't the best but it was clean. The chai was the most underwhelming I've had in India. However the entrees were good. The chef special mutton stew was delicious. Price was fb higher. The local arts shops - after lunch we walked across the street to mughal Carpet shop. They will give you a demonstration about how Persian rugs are made, how it's special, quality etc. They lead you to the show you get you comfortable and offer you drinks while then you're at the mercy of listening to their sales pitch. Showing you their beautiful carpets. Then you're put in a position to purchase an expensive rug. It's uncomfortable but this is how the local economy makes some money. You have to negotiate. I was able to haggle my 400 USD rug to 250 USD and I feel I could have pushed harder for a better deal. Trick is to act like you're done negotiating and want to walk away. They will say what's your offer. Remember they prefer cash over card. You'll be taken to a marble crafts shop where the same sales thing will happen. Tour ended with a great sunset view spot across the river from The Taj Mahal.

MyN46, 2024-02-15

Kozy and Ashish were so flexible with us after our train to Agra was delayed! They waited for us, and we drove around in a nice, comfortable sedan. Kozy also helped us navigate the many vendors that approached us at the Taj, and even helped us get digital photos from the photographers. The convenience from this tour was worth it.

Jet25317656858, 2024-01-30

Vinny was excellent guide. Knowledgeable, and easy to understand. All my requests were met with a smile. He was courteous and the ease with which we were able to enter and see the sights was appreciated. Highly recommend Vinny

544carah, 2023-12-17

Vinny was an incredible tour guide — so kind, knowledgeable, funny and took amazing pictures of me and my husband! He also introduced us to a gorgeous, local carpet company — artistry unlike anything I’ve seen before. So grateful!

• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Infants must sit on laps
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Most travelers can participate
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking

Departure point

• About Taj Mahal

A TIMELESS SAGA | Mughal Splendour

Who could ever think that an eternal love leading to the saga of infinite bondage can evolve out of a desert like land and would blossom to be the reason to gift our world a poem-in-marble, The Taj!

No image of The Taj, neither on canvass nor on celluloid, can adequately express its conceptual imaginary nor convey the legend, the poetry and the romance that shrouds what Rabindranath Tagore calls "a teardrop on the cheek of time".

The Taj Mahal, a spectacle in white marble, unparalleled in grandeur that depicts the sheer opulence of an era. The awesome structure, the monument of love that Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan gave to the world, stands as a testimony of his intense love for his wife Mumtaz Mahal.

It is a romance celebrated in marble and glorified with precious and semi-precious stones and that’s the way to appreciate it!

Uttar Pradesh, the Land of The Taj is rich in its cultural heritage and has always been a prominent arena of politics since the ancient times. Agra, the City of The Taj and once the capital of the Mughal Empire during the 16th through the early 18th centuries, enjoys a close proximity to the National Capital City of New Delhi.

Tourists from all over the world visit Agra to make a pilgrimage to Taj Mahal, India’s most famous architectural wonder, in a land where magnificent temples and edifices abound to remind visitors about the rich civilization of a country that is slowly but surely lifting itself into an industrialized society as well.

Taj Mahal means "Crown Palace" and is in fact the most well preserved and architecturally beautiful tomb in the world. The English poet, Sir Edwin Arnold has described The Taj as "Not a piece of architecture, as other buildings are, but the proud passions of an emperor’s love wrought in living stones."

It is a romance celebrated in marble and glorified with precious and semi-precious stones and that’s the way to appreciate it!.

Taj Mahal stands on the bank of River Yamuna, which otherwise serves as a wide most defending the Great Red Fort of Agra, the center of the Mughal emperors until they moved their capital to Delhi in 1637. It was built by the fifth Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan in 1631 in memory of his third but the most favourite wife, in fact a soul-mate Mumtaz Mahal, a Muslim Persian princess. She died while accompanying her husband in Burhanpur in a campaign to crush a rebellion after giving birth to their 13th child. The death so crushed the emperor that all his hair and beard were said to have grown snow white in a few months.

When Mumtaz Mahal was still alive, she extracted four promises from the emperor: first, that he build the Taj; second, that he should marry again; third, that he be kind to their children; and fourth, that he visit the tomb on her death anniversary. However, due to ill health and being under house arrest by his own son and successor to the throne, Aurangzeb, barred him from continue to keep the last promise.

The Taj rises on a high red sandstone base topped by a huge white marble terrace on which rests the famous dome flanked by four tapering minarets. Within the dome lies the jewel-inlaid cenotaph of the queen. So exquisite is the workmanship that the Taj has been described as "having been designed by giants and finished by jewellers". The only asymmetrical object in the Taj is the casket of the emperor which was built beside the queen’s as an afterthought.

Legend has it that during his eight years long ailment and imprisonment, Shah Jahan used to intensly view The Taj lying on the bed through a diamond fixed in the wall in front at a particular angle.  WOW!!!

As a tribute to a woman of exotic beauty and as a monument of a love story, which is keeping us engrossed even when we are reading through these pages here, truely an ever-lasting romance of a love not ended as yet, the Taj reveals its subtleties to its beholder!

The rectangular base of Taj is in itself symbolic of the different sides from which to view a beautiful woman. The main gate is like a veil to a woman’s face which should be lifted delicately, gently and without haste on the wedding night. In Indian tradition the veil is lifted gently to reveal the beauty of the bride. As one stands inside the main gate of Taj, his eyes are directed to an arch which frames the Taj.

The dome is made of white marble, but the tomb is set against the plain across the river and it is this background that works its magic of colours that, through their reflection, change the view of the Taj. The colours change at different hours of the day and during different seasons.

The Taj sparkles like a jewel in moonlight when the semi-precious stones inlaid into the white marble on the main mausoleum catch and reflect back its glow with a better gleam. The Taj is pinkish in the morning, milky white in the evening and golden when the moon shines. These changes, they say, depict the different moods of a beauty of any kind.

Different people have different views of the Taj but it would be enough to say that the Taj has a life of its own that leaps out of marble. A masterpiece of the art and science of architecture, a representative of an era called The Mughal Period surpassing any authority to add or de-add anything in any sense in or out of the Taj!

The Taj Mahal stands tall with grace is not just a parable epitome of emotional & eternal love between a man and a woman but for other reasons too _

Emperor Shah Jahan, who commissioned the construction of ‘The Taj’, desired to create it also as a symbol of solemnity, harmony, purity and spirituality as well.

The Taj is not merely a monument of grace and dignity alone. It is, in fact, a message to all mankind that “Pure love is the soul of life”.

The Taj is a reminder for all mankind about the universally accepted but not so well practiced concept of ‘Love & Peace’, the essence of the paradise, free from conflicts of races and geographical boundaries is important to be observed solemnly.

The Taj is simply a majestic tribute to an exotic beauty!

The saga of The Taj would be half told if the myths related to it are not mentioned. Like many a great buildings the Taj Mahal has its myths and legends. It seems that there is more fiction on the Taj than serious scholarly research. Several of the stories belong solely to oral tradition and are told by the guides, some are so established that they form a popular history of the monument and have made their way into guidebooks, and some have been taken up by scholars, or even created by them, and thus become part of the scholarly debate.

To the last category belong the oldest tales of the Taj. Here the most widely known is the story of the second Taj, the 'Black Taj', which Shah Jahan intended to build in black marble opposite the present mausoleum, on the site of the Mahtab Bagh. It goes back to Jean-Baptiste Tavernier who, when at Agra in 1665 AD, reported that 'Shahjahan began to built his own tomb on the other side of the river, but the war with his sons interrupted his plan, and Aurangzeb, who reigns at present, is not disposed to complete it. Shah Jahan was put under house arrest by his own son and successor by force, Aurangzeb. The latter did not agree with his father on most issues and was particularly opposed to him building a black Taj as his own mausoleum.

Upon Shah Jahan's death, Aurangzeb made the body of the Emperor, who got the body of his beloved Mumtaz in a golden casket from Burhanpur to Agra, carried in a boat by only two men and buried him in the Taj, next to his wife in probably the simplest manner.

Shah Jahan, the Emperor, who fulfilled the wishes of his beloved, could not find fulfilment of his own wish to build a Black Taj to express his mourning for the beloved Queen Mumtaz Mahal even after his death. That was the serenity in the purity of love.

Legend has it that during his eight years long ailment and imprisonment, Shah Jahan used to intensly view The Taj lying on the bed through a diamond fixed in the wall in front at a particular angle, WOW!!!

As a tribute to a woman of exotic beauty and as a monument of a love story, which is keeping us engrossed even when we are reading through these pages here, truely an ever-lasting romance of a love not ended as yet, the Taj reveals its subtleties to its Beholder! Come!! Be Thy One!!!

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World  /  Asia  /  India  / Taj Mahal, India. Part II

Taj Mahal, India. Part II

In  The New Seven Wonders Of The World  list Taj Mahal, a mosque-mausoleum located in Indian city of Agra, takes a very important place.

In spite of its Muslim origin this white marble necropolis became an actual symbol of India. Serious security measures are taken to protect it. There is a special 500-meter security zone established around the complex. Cars are to be parked 2 kilometers away, and the rest of the way tourists have to travel by rickshas, carriages, or electromobiles, because it's believed that car exhaust fumes cause yellowing of the marble facing. There is even a barbed wire fence on the opposite shore of Jamuna River, which runs beside Taj Mahal. Security personnel totals hundreds of men. 

In January 2012 Dima Moiseenko, our photographer, went to Agra to meet the Superintending Archaeologist in charge of Taj Mahal and asked him how to get a permit to photograph Taj Mahal from air. Security is so tight in Taj Mahal that one cannot even enter with a tripod. But that wasn't the only issue: Dima was asked to hand over his lighter and cigarettes. 

The Archaeologist listened to the request of his guest from remote Russia and replied, "I'll allow you to shoot with a tripod, but you can forget about aerial photographs". Last time someone took pictures of Taj Mahal from air was 10 or 15 years ago. And as long as I've been here, no one else has been able to do that. A few years ago some foreigners tried to launch a radio-controlled helicopter from a boat on the river, but the police immediately arrested them. I strongly advice you against this trick." 

We were curious who managed to take an aerial photograph of Taj Mahal. After searching the Internet we found out that it was Yan Artus Bertran, a famous Frenchman, who took pictures of Taj Mahal from a helicopter in 1997.

http://www.yannarthusbertrand2.org/index.php?option=com_datsogallery&Itemid=27&func=detail&catid=46&id=1324&l=1600

http://www.yannarthusbertrand2.org/index.php?option=com_datsogallery&Itemid=27&func=detail&catid=46&id=1309&p=1&l=1600

15 years have passed and no one else was able to get a permission to shoot the monument from air. Mr. Bertran had a full support of UNESCO and French government, so one can imagine the resources he had available for this project. Unfortunately, the only resource AirPano had was a group panoramic photography enthusiasts from Moscow. 

And so we decided to visit the Embassy of India in Moscow. Dima went to the Embassy and made a presentation about AirPano project. He told them about our non-for-profit work focused on showing people the most interesting places of our planet from a bird's eye view.

They expressed an interest in our work and asked us to prepare all the necessary documents about the planned photo shoot. The paperwork took almost 2 months, we went back and forth, correcting documents and providing comments when necessary. Finally, when we were shooting in Cambodia, good news came from the Embassy: we were given the permission to shoot in March.

I will let Stas tell you the rest of the story.

Although we had a trip to Jordan planed in March, we canceled it and went to India. Dima Moiseyenko and I arrived to Agra, India, the home of Taj Mahal, in March 2012. 

First of all we went to visit the Superintendant Archaeologist, with whom Dima met in January. Only this time we had the papers. At first, very unwillingly, the Superintendant Archaeologist allowed us to fly over Agra, except for Taj Mahal. But then, referring to a phone call from Dehli, he denied us entirely. He said that we had to go to the capital and gain a permit from the Ministry of Civil Aviation (yes, for a 100-meter height launch of a small manually controlled helicopter). As if to make us feel better, he allowed us to shoot inside Taj Mahal with a tripod.

To say that we were frustrated after that conversation is to say nothing. Our entire trip was falling apart right in front of our eyes, because Taj Mahal was our main goal.

We spent the following day knocking on every door we knew, from police to other local authorities, trying to get the permit. But all our efforts were in vain. After listening to our story, every single bureaucrat sent us back to the Superintendant Archaeologist.

As a last resort, Dima called the Embassy of India in Moscow and told them that despite of all the papers from Delhi, we were being denied to photograph Taj Mahal. They said they would look into it, but it could take a lot of time. And we had only 3 days left.

The same night we held "a council of war" in our hotel room. We declared that, using the papers from the Embassy as a backup, we would launch the helicopter from under the wall by the riverside.

The take-off should be done in the open, in the sight of the security guards, so that we wouldn't be shot as terrorists. It was clear that we had only one chance to shoot, and that they wouldn't allow us to do it again.

In the morning we packed our equipment and went to our photo shoot, preparing ourselves to spend some time in a local jail. However, we received a phone call on our way to Taj Mahal. It was an employee of the Embassy in Moscow. He said that we had to go to the Superintendant Archaeologist's office and get our photo permit. He managed to resolve all the issues for us. Still in doubt, we entered the office. The Superintendant Archaeologist didn't grace us with his presence; a small clerk handed us the paper. 

And that was it! The permit to fly over Agra Fatehpur Sikri Fort and, more importantly, a permission to photograph Taj Mahal from air for 2 days straight!

To be honest, I didn't believe my own eyes at first, but the sight of Dima dancing in the street dust finally convinced me. 

We photographed Taj Mahal twice in the morning and one time in the evening. That was one of the most challenging and thorough work we'd done so far. We had to carry our helicopter on the premises 3 times. And each time it was a nightmare. Every local security guard had to stop us and ask — with huge surprise in his eyes — how exactly did we manage to sneak in our gear. Routinely we would show him our papers, which he would study for 10 or 15 minutes, only to say that we couldn't shoot here.

But yes, we did it! We were the first ones in 15 years to fly over Taj Mahal and photograph it. We were the first to make a virtual aerial tour around Taj Mahal, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. And now you can admire the beauty of the symbol of India in a way only birds could do before.

After this we shot in many other places in India, such as Fatehpur Sikri , Agra Fort , Varanasi , Jaipur , and Delhi . Fortunately, we didn't have any difficulties there. On our last day in India we also received a permission to photograph at the territory of unique Akshardham (New Delhi). We will publish these materials on AirPano.com as they go through post processing. Here  you can see the first part of photopanoramas of Taj Mahal, which got more than 22 million views.

Stay tuned! 

Taj Mahal was built by order of  Shah Jahan, a Great Mughal emperor and the descendant of Tamerlan, in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. In our cynical times it's hard to believe in feelings strong enough to withstand 17 years of marriage and 13 children. But it's a fact — all legends and stories of that time tell us one thing: when they first met, Shah Jahan was enchanted by his chosen one, so from that moment on he didn't pay attention to his other wives. When Mumtaz Mahal died during childbirth of their fourteenth baby in 1631, Shah aborted his war campaign, returned home and dedicated the rest of his life to building the mausoleum.

Twenty thousand workers had been building the monument for more than twenty years. Beside local experts, foreign architects — Venetian and Frenchman — were invited to participate in the development. Combined efforts gave birth to five-dome building, which was 74 meters high on the platform with 4 minarets in the corners. The walls are faced with polished semitransparent marble, brought to the site from a 300 kilometers distance. It looks white in the bright daylight, pink during sunset, and silver in the moonlight. Furthermore, walls are decorated with turquoise, agate, malachite, carnelian and other gemstones delivered from many countries including Russia. The grand building of Taj Mahal is surrounded by park. Water canals divide the park into square sections. The wide canal with fountains runs from the main gate. When the fountains are silent one can see a magic reflection of Taj Mahal in the water...

While the construction was in progress, Shah Jahan had an idea to create the same monument for himself on the opposite shore of Jamuna River that runs right behind the mausoleum. It would be made of black marble and connected with his wife's mausoleum by an openwork bridge. Unfortunately, this beautiful dream did not come true. In order to maintain a clear view of the most spectacular mausoleum in the world, it was prohibited to erect more than 4-storey buildings in 3 kilometers radius. However, many years of grief and obsession with building the mausoleum prevented Shah Jahan from attending to his country's needs. As a result, he was overthrown by his own son (son of the woman to whom he dedicated the mausoleum) and spent the rest of his days in jail. The legend says that, as some cruel joke, his jail windows were facing Taj Mahal, the monument to his loved one whose untimely death led to his demise. Taj Mahal is not just one of the most famous India landmarks. It is a rare monument, which needs to be seen and also to be felt. This is a story of love artistically preserved in stone, and it affects everyone who sees it. 

You can also watch the short video from the above of Taj Mahal.

Text by  Stanislav Sedov  and Oleg Gaponyuk , photography and video by  Stanislav Sedov  and  Dmitry Moiseenko

27 April 2017

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