The Taj Mahal, wonder of the world, ode to love. Well an ode to his 3rd wife. Not sure how first 2 felt when he embarked on this 25 year building spree to remember her.
None the less, one of the “must sees” when in India.
Our first glimpse was from down the river. It was a little bit hazy, but luckily not foggy and the sun was coming out. (Config: Canon 5D Mark III, Canon 28-300mm f/3.5 USM).
Once past the gates you come to the large entrance – effectively called “The great gate”
Our first peek at the Taj Mahal.
As we walked through the gate it came into full view. It was quite a unique experience.
Even thought it was an official holiday, it was not as busy as I had expected. But there were a lot of Indians. With the recent collapse of the rupee there has been a sharp decline in travel abroad as Indians looked to more affordable travel within the country.
Unfortunately, this means that if you are a local, you can expect a very, very long line. Fortunately, as foreigners we were able to skip the lines. The lines wrapped around the Taj Mahal multiple times.
And on that note, what else is there to say? It is the Taj Mahal. A spectacular monument that you simply stand back and soak in.
A unique Christmas day.
Michael Weening: a few pictures 
Reblogged this on Egos & Buffaloes and commented:
Officially on my bucket list… beautiful!!
Your pictures are beautiful! And the queue is really looooooooooooong…
I figured it would take hours and hours. Felt guilty skipping the queue
Hours?!? I’m not sure if I have that patience though..
Enjoyed reading your post and looking at your photos, Michael! India is a country that I wish to visit someday in the near future! I love reading like minded travel blogs. I look forward to following you on your journey.
would love to see the Taj Mahal personally. Frankly I fear the safety and security not to mention the food hygienes. But definitely something I must to when I overcome the fear
Hi Rachel, we were also very worried about traveling to India and we did have a few uncomfortable experiences. Just be smart. Have a guide, don’t go out at bad times or bad areas and don’t be alone.
Good series on India Michael; a lot of great shots: “First Glimpse” nice soft colours; women in sari; “Lock and Spice” … and the market shots.
Hey Bill, thanks! Hope all is well in the snow!
beautiful pictures !
Loved your pics of the Taj from within the tunnels. I had shots like that of Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi. Always goo to try something different eh? 😉 For me, the Taj Mahal was one of the true wonders of the world, and your photos on this page are astounding!