The Taj

The Taj Mahal literally means "Crown Palace".  Built by emperor Shah Jahan for his third wife after her death.  After the construction of the incredible Taj Mahal, poor Mr. Jahan was put under house arrest by his son, the new emperor.  He was imprisoned at the Agra Fort (pictured at the end of this blog) until his death.  Our road trip to the Taj was almost as exciting as the Taj itself, read about it here.

We were impressed by the beautiful blue sky and clouds.  I don't think I've seen a blue sky in months!  I couldn't stop staring at the sky!

Our first view of the Taj

With a glow from the sunrise

Dad and me

I am really holding the top of the Taj (you just can't see the magic carpet under me)

With our tour guide.  We were impressed with his sharp vest and pimpin shades.

Indian schoolchildren taking a school trip to the Taj.  Field trip for next year??

The red booties we were required to wear to keep the marble clean.

Scroll quickly through the next 4 photos to get a taste of the merchants of Agra... very aggressively pushing their merchandise!!  Thanks to Tim for the photojournalism.

Books!

Magnets!

Snakes & Peacock feathers!

And more books!

Tim working his magic and sanding precious stones for marble inlay work.

Practicing the art of etched marble

At the Agra Fort