Taj Mahal is Known as this Name:The Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is a historical and cultural heritage of India. This grand mausoleum located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh is an unmatched example of love and architecture. It was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. In 1983, Taj Mahal was given the status of UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Every year lakhs of tourists come to visit the Taj Mahal and take with them the memories of this beautiful monument. However, do you know that the name of Taj Mahal was something else earlier?
Old name of Taj Mahal: ‘Rauja-e-Munawwara’
Yes! Taj Mahal was earlier called ‘Rauja-e-Munawwara’. This name means “tomb of light”. Later its name was changed to ‘Taj Mahal’.
This grand mausoleum is made of white marble stones, in which the tomb of Shahjahan’s Begum Mumtaz Mahal is situated. Taj Mahal is spread over about 42 acres, which has many beautiful rooms and gardens.
Taj Mahal: Confluence of History and Architecture
The construction of Taj Mahal shows the excellence of Mughal architecture. Its main dome as well as the surrounding minarets make it very beautiful. The inlays and carvings on the walls of the tomb make it one of the most beautiful monuments in the world.
This place is not only historical but also romantic, where lovers link their relationship with the immortal love story of Shahjahan and Mumtaz.
Places to visit near Taj Mahal
If you are going to see Taj Mahal in Agra, then you can also enjoy these nearby places:
- Agra Fort:
- This fort, a symbol of the power and grandeur of the Mughal Empire, is located at a short distance from the Taj Mahal.
- Mehtab Bagh:
- Situated on the banks of Yamuna river, this garden is the perfect place to see the reflection of Taj Mahal.
- Sugar Fast:
- This beautiful example of Mughal architecture is the tomb of Shahjahan’s courtier Afzal Khan.
- Meena Bazaar:
- This market is famous for its traditional things and crafts.
- Dolphin Water Park:
- If you want to spend some fun time after Taj Mahal, then this water park is a great option.
Maintenance and tourist facilities of Taj Mahal
The responsibility of maintaining the Taj Mahal is in the hands of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Thousands of tourists come here every day. Many rules have been made for the preservation of the monument so that its beauty always remains intact.