The Big T.
- Beth & Dan
- Mar 14, 2018
- 2 min read
Saturday 10th March
Woke at 5am. With our body clocks thoroughly bamboozled we headed for the Taj Mahal. There was an excited atmosphere as we walked through the streets in the dark. The gates opened at 6.20am with sunrise at 6.40am.
Our guide was excellent and knew the best positions to be in as the sun slowly emerged. At this time in the morning the Taj is at its quietest, so dragging ourselves out of bed was very worthwhile!
Pictures and videos will never do this incredible place justice. There is an atmosphere.
Beth's Note:
Not caring that this sounds cliché, I felt so full and warm. Full of serenity, joy and faith. Faith in humanity, in some higher power and in love. A symbol of love, an everlasting monument to showcase two peoples' devotion to each other. Our guide said that no other husbands can ever compete! No words can explain the feeling of peace that surrounds the Taj, and with the sun rising from behind, emotions also build. I could have sat and stared at the sparkling white marble glowing orange in the sun all day. What a memory.
We travelled from Agra to Ranthambore National Park. A long drive. The landscape slowly became more rural. Farms (potatoes), people showering naked and herds of goats scattered in the road. We are loving soaking up the scenery. Such a vast comparison to life at home. Driving past people's homes and shops you get to see a two second snapshot of their life, a woman laughing and chasing a young boy through the fields, children walking in school uniform on the side of the highway, haggling for mangos, women wearing beautiful and pristine saris whilst labouring in the fields.... such a fascinating place.
Things we have noticed:
- Every person we chat with wants to know our relationship status. "Friends? Boyfriend?" And there is no judgement when we say we are not married.
- Hats / sunglasses are rarely worn. Makes us stick out like sore thumbs!
- Cars beep to alert other drivers of their position on the road. Initially we thought there was just a lot of road rage, but actually it's a clever and effective system amid the chaos.
Love,
B&D
- Taj Mahal Entry 1000 rupees each (£11)
i am so pleased that you got yourselves out of bed and walked to the Taj for the most magical time of day to experiance it in its full glory .. well done for not being lazy .. and i know exactly how it made you feel .. i was there 20 years ago ... felt the same kiddos xxxx
Awwh thankyou Aunty Ruth! Yes the Pringle moment made me laugh too! Dan is enjoying the many curries though, almost 3 a day! Lots of love xx
Thanks Mum and Dad! Yes our perspectives and understandings are changing, a positive shift. I'd recommend the Taj to everyone, such an experience xxxxx
Dear Beth and Dan.
Just loving all the info you're giving us on your travels. Brilliant! And you do not seem at all phased by the Indian cuisine, particularly you, Beth! Had a little giggle when, at one stage, Dan chose Pringles! Lots of love Auntie Ruth & Uncle Phil xx
So well written guys, it's a place we have never visited, but is definitely on our list! Stunning photos.
Wow xxx