Taj Mahal Agra - (North India)

The journey from Jaipur (JAIPUR LOVE CITY & VARANASI SACRED GANGES) to our destination was about five and a half hours, and I was glad to have the company of some lively ladies on this tour. With jokes and laughter filling the bus, time flew by until our first comfort break. These breaks can happen anywhere, often at roadside shops where a bathroom stop is a must. Here’s the thing: you have to brace yourself. Sometimes there's water, sometimes not, so always carry tissues. Out in the outskirts, you can't afford to fuss; no one’s going to hear you anyway.

For men in India, bathroom breaks are even more informal. They relieve themselves wherever they please, and it's a sight that's hard to miss. I'd seen enough in North India to know it wasn't just a South Indian phenomenon (MYSURU & CHENNAI) . At some sightseeing spots, the smell is impossible to avoid as you walk in.

Anyway, we continued our journey, arriving in Agra past 2 pm. At the consensus of all, it was vegetarian food. One of the setbacks in such all Malaysian Indian groups is the high preference for vegetarianism, regardless of holy visits to temples. Lunch took place at Annaporna, and I was so glad that the Chow Mein, the North Indian style of Chinese fried noodles, tasted heavenly. And you should not discount the luscious lassi in India; it's as beloved as Bru Coffee.

Next, the main highlight in Agra? It has to be the Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal, an iconic symbol of love and architectural splendor, stands gracefully on the banks of the Yamuna River. Commissioned in 1632 by Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, it is renowned for its breathtaking white marble facade adorned with intricate inlays of semi-precious stones.

The symmetrical gardens, reflecting pools, and the central dome create a mesmerizing reflection that changes with the light of day. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Taj Mahal embodies unparalleled beauty and eternal love, drawing millions of visitors annually to marvel at its timeless elegance and poignant history.

It started with waiting in line for tickets, surrounded by a countless crowd reminiscent of the Thaipusam gatherings in Malaysia. To enter, we went through a strict security check. Once cleared, we took an auto-rickshaw to get closer, but there was still plenty of walking. Our local guide explained everything as we made our way to the Taj Mahal.

Standing in front of the Taj Mahal, I lost interest in the guide's explanations. I wanted to explore on my own. I had heard mixed feedback about the Taj Mahal - some said it was a waste of time. I disagree. The beauty, the craftsmanship, and the history of this majestic structure are awe-inspiring. The aura of love that surrounds it gives you the feeling of grandeur, shimmering, glittering, and majestic elegance. I had a fantastic time, snapping endless photos, posing, and soaking in every moment, knowing I might never return.

The Taj Mahal is part of a vast complex, and I noticed new structures coming up. If you’re not in a hurry, you could easily spend a day exploring. The Taj Mahal was the main attraction in Agra before we headed toward New Delhi, where we arrived on the first day.