There is a saying here: There are two types of people in the world- those who have seen the Taj Mahal, and those who haven't. Now, I'm not sure if that was created by the same people who gave us: "What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas", but now that we've been, we understand. It is, without doubt, one of the greatest buildings ever created, both for its design, and for the emotions that inspired it. When we first laid eyes upon it, we were simply awestruck.
TM stands majestically, blazingly white against the blue sky, and we were transfixed
. It is perfection, a monument to the undying love of a man, Shah Jahan, for his wife of 18 years, Mumtaz. He wanted to immortalize that love for all history. Man, did he succeed!
What you may not know is that the Taj Mahal is a mauoleum, and both are buried there. From a distance, the stark whiteness almost glows, but once near, you see the precious gem stones which have been inlaid in the marble in intricate patterns. It boggles the mind to think that it was hand built in 1632 by 20,000 men over 17 years. Our guide, Baroon, regaled us with colorful stories, which together with a high-energy musical theatre show the previous night helped us understand it all. It surely is a memory which we never forget, and a trip highlight for us.
From Agra, we traveled to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, and known as the Pink City because of the predominant color, although truth be told, it is closer to the color of bricks. This is an exciting and vibrant city, with much to see
. We had a full day of touring the various sites, starting with the awe-inspiring Amber Fort, a hilltop fortress which also served as the residence of a royal family.
We climbed the steep hill on the back of an elephant, as part of a procession of visitors to the fort. This was very unlike our Thai elephant ride- a lot scarier, given the platform we were sitting on while going up the steep incline to the fort. As we toured the site, we were so impressed by the intricate but simple design of the royal residences. This is not uncommon among the historical Moghul buildings we've visited. You can still imagine the opulence despite the deterioration of time. So interesting.
At night, we visited a village which included a traditional Rajastani dinner as well as singing, dancing, magic, crafts, and puppet performances. We wandered from stage to stage under the stars. So enchanting. What really made it unique was the fact that we were among few westerners there amidst the Indian groups and families
.
And now, a few words about the shopping. There are just tons of shops, stalls and pushcarts and the streets around tourist areas are just brimming with them. Everyday, we have a different guide, and each has the same routine. First, they show you the sights, with commentary they've parroted countless times. Then (and this is the important part to them!), they inevitably take us to 1-2 shops which pay them a commission for anything we buy. It's usually good for a wasted hour, but on the upside, the air con is welcome, as well as a courtesy drink which usually offered. It goes with the territory, and we just grin and bear it, and sometimes, we buy. Thus far, I've had a custom-made blazer, slacks, and shirt made (overnight!), while Bonnie's gotten a gorgeous gold and topaz pendant.
Overall, we are finding that the heat is draining and by the end of the day we are beat. Street life is interesting, with a profusion of brightly colored saris, the ebb and flow of the masses, the relentless traffic, the constant honking, the animals, and dirt, dirt, dust and did I mention dirt?
To close this blog entry, we are seeing the preparations for Diwalli, the most festive time of the year here. Lights and decorations are being put up, and the ads are everywhere. Like Christmas back home, it means good times with family and friends, lots of eating, presents exchanged, and fireworks, too. Too bad we'll be missing it.
TAJ MAHAL MARVELS
Friday, October 10, 2014
Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Comments

2025-02-17
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The Sunnies
2014-10-12
Your travels thus far in India sound amazing! Your wonderful descriptions of your experiences make them come alive! This certainly sounds like the trip of your dreams....and more! So happy you are taking it all in with such appreciation and enthusiasm! Continue to enjoy and make more special memories! Love you...
Hope Springman
2014-10-13
This is one of your best blogs ever - what an exciting adventure you're having in India, despite the intense heat! Loved your description of the Taj Mahal - and a man's love for his wife. Your photos are great too - not too many people can say they've had an elephant ride! Can't wait to see your new 24-hour wardrobe! Love, Hope
rita
2014-10-14
you have such fun!!!! Can't wait to see pics and hear more when you get back
cissie.retired
2014-10-14
I'm catching up with all your recent Indian blogs. The country sounds fantastic, exotic, and completely different from anything else in your travels. Thank you for taking us along with you on these journeys because in most cases, we would never get to all these wonderful destinations. I'm drooling at the thought of Indian food because my family and I LOVE it. Great idea to avoid the street food even though it smells amazing. Stay healthy!! Much better idea.
I look forward to your next entry....with much anticipation.
Enjoy!