There's a unique charm for photographers chasing sunsets. The anticipation builds throughout the day, culminating in the leisurely descent of the sun below the horizon. Then, usually, more magic unfolds as the sky unveils a smattering of colours and hues in pinks and oranges. This light show transitions through until “blue hour” or twilight when new colours and shadows unfold.
In contrast, capturing a sunrise demands meticulous planning because it swiftly transitions from a mere glimpse on the horizon to a radiant ascent. Given the significance of wanting to see the sunrise at the Taj Mahal, I couldn't afford any "do-over days." My plan had to be flawless. I calculated everything backwards from the anticipated sunrise time – transportation arrangements, alarm setting, and travel time.
My day began with a car service picking me up from the hotel. Our first stop was the sister hotel, where I waited alongside another family for a multi-row golf cart that would take us closer to the monument. After a brief journey in the shroud of darkness, we disembarked at the outer parking lot and needed to walk to the entrance for tickets and a security check. Although it was still dark, the streets were waking up, and life was unfolding with food stalls and souvenir shops getting ready for a busy day ahead. A young man offered to escort me to the ticket counter, and although I initially declined, his persistence convinced me otherwise. Reluctantly, I followed his lead to the ticket counter.
I hadn't purchased tickets in advance as I was uncertain of the definitive date of my visit, and this decision cost me some time. But, with my "guide's" assistance, I secured the first spot in line for tickets. The booth for entry opens precisely 30 minutes before sunrise, and I anxiously waited as the clock ticked down. At 25 minutes before sunrise, the attendant finally arrived, appearing as if he had just woken up. My ticket allowed me entry and included a water bottle and disposable shoe covers. There are strict restrictions on what one can bring into the Taj Mahal; my guide emphasized this repeatedly as our next stop was the main gate for security checks and ticket validation. That's when I realized I had an "emergency granola bar" tucked away in my knapsack (a travel essential for me). I handed it to my guide and agreed to visit his marble shop and purchase souvenirs after my Taj Mahal experience.
By this time, the sky was brightening, and the sun was about to appear. I received a local tip to head to the mosque west of the Taj Mahal mausoleum for the best sunrise view. However, I had to stay focused and not get sidetracked by the iconic "Princess Diana bench" at the main entrance, with its stunning backdrop of the white monument. I picked up my pace and headed in the opposite direction, hoping the advice I'd received was not misleading me.
The morning was completely tranquil and silent except for the occasional chirping of birds. Upon reaching the mosque, my view of the Taj Mahal was perfect! My determination and speed paid off as the sun rose. The solace took hold, and my racing heart and rapid breathing started to synchronize with the moment's serenity.
As the sun climbed higher and the day officially began, so did my exploration of the Taj Mahal grounds. I wandered from the mosque to the mirror property in the east, then back again, finally entering the magnificent Taj Mahal.
Approximately 20,000 skilled workers contributed to Shah Jahan's vision to immortalize his eternal love for Mumtaz Mahal. You can truly sense that love in the intricate details and the flawless perfection of this symbol of devotion.
Calligraphy adorns the interior and exterior, featuring holy verses, patterns, and other inscriptions. Inside the Taj Mahal lies the actual tomb of Mumtaz Mahal, centered in the mausoleum, with Shah Jahan's slightly larger tomb positioned to the side. These tombs are exquisitely crafted from marble, embellished with semiprecious stones, and bathed in light streaming through intricately carved marble screens.
But let me stop my rambling, dear reader, for there are no words to encapsulate the beauty of this monument. Instead, I offer you my images below (click on any image to view it in a larger format and navigate through the photographs at your leisure).
As I made my way back through the shop area to the golf cart designated for my hotel, I heard a shout and saw a man waving enthusiastically from inside a marble shop. That he recognized me amidst the crowds of tourists was enough for me to prepare for some convincing salesmanship, which would inevitably add more weight to my already overstuffed suitcases. However, the family-owned shop had such beautiful pieces of marble I couldn't resist. I ended up with two exquisite marble elephants, now proudly displayed on my bookshelf, instantly transporting me back to the marble wonder of the Taj Mahal. I lost track of time at the Taj Mahal; the experience exceeded my expectations. I owe my gratitude to Karl for leading me here.
But then, just as I was about to board the golf cart, I heard another shout and turned to see the shop owner, my guide to the ticket counter, rushing toward me. With a big smile on his face, he extended his arm out and handed me back my "emergency granola bar." I kid you not, dear reader; this is the India I experienced.
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