The Taj Mahal

The team had a fun and relaxing evening with Rtn. Rahul  Wadhwa and his family in their stunning home/guest house, situated a mere 10 minutes drive from the Taj Mahal.  The team enjoyed some western style food (pizza!) and great company. 

An early start for the team this morning but it was most definitely worth it.  Arising at 6am with a quick cold shower and dressing in the dark (the electricity infrastructure in India is unreliable) the team were refreshed, recharged and excited about their day ahead!

We arrived at the breath taking Taj Mahal at 8am, just as the morning sun began to penetrate the clouds.  As we entered through the gate to the South we all stood in awe of this magnificent building.  This spectacle certainly goes far beyond any expectation, imagination or photograph; although the professional photographs taken by Sophie do provide an insight to yet another one of our amazing experiences here in India.  Astonished and a little tired, the team are heading back to Jaipur via Fatehpur Sikri for another interesting and exciting day. 

Security:
Security at major tourist attractions is a top priority with metal detectors and bag searches of every visitor.  Today during our visit to the Taj Mahal, we were told that food, drink and even toys are not allowed within the grounds of the attraction.  Our guide informed us that due to the litter and rubbish issues in India, food and drink was not permitted into this spotless attraction.  Moreover, toys and branded products are not permitted in order to prevent advertising.  Consequently, Anna’s travel mascot ‘Pooh Bear’ was denied entry, but thanks to our tour guide Fazal, the teddy bear was kept safe with a nearby shop keeper and collected after our visit.  As a consolation, the picture below shows Anna in front of the Taj Mahal with a virtual ‘Photoshopped’ ‘Pooh Bear’!

The team in front of the Taj Mahal just after sunrise



The team sat on the eastern side of the Taj Mahal

To illustrate the sheer size!



A new team member!



Timeless and artistic

Anna and 'Pooh Bear!'

  

The team in front of the Taj Mahal