If you are planning to visit the world's most beautiful building, the Taj Mahal, it will definitely not disappoint you but the crowds you will encounter will certainly not add to your overall experience. The best way to avoid the worst of the queues, crowds and Agra's horrendous traffic is to stay there overnight. This way you can arrive at the Taj early (it opens at 6.00) and miss the tour parties which generally start to arrive at around 9.00. Staying in Agra also means you have the possibility (if you plan it right) of seeing the Taj in the moonlight. From 8.30 to 12.30 am groups of fifty people are allowed into the grounds (not the building) for up to half an hour.

Staying in Agra will also give you more time to visit Aga's other important sites. Apart from the Red Fort and Akbar's tomb another site not to be missed is the Itimad-Ud-Daulah or the 'baby Taj' as it is known. This tomb of Mizra Ghiyas Beg who was Shah Jahan's chief minister is an exquisite building that contains many of the design features that were later incorporated into the Taj. The gardens of the Taj are also very beautiful so take the time to wander around them, take photos from more original angles, and find a bench and sit and contemplate what wonders love can create!

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

As with most major tourist attractions, getting to the Taj Mahal as early as possible ensures that you beat the herds (and the heat). Taking in the stunning beauty and tranquility of the Taj (really, photographs do it no justice) and the misty stillness of the surrounding area at sunrise you'll forget you're still in Agra; not so come 8am when the floods begin to arrive.

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends