With great delight I can inform you the Taj Mahal really is astonishing. It is massive, of white marble and bejewelled, absolutely symmetrical and heaving with visitors. As with all visitor attractions we have so far seen, the vast majority of their customers are Indian. Such is the size now of the Indian population: 1.25 billion. And growing at the rate of over 12 milion per annum.
We visited the Taj early, a good idea. As we left, the queues were considerable. Apparently, there are 20k every day, with up to 50k in the summer. Except for Fridays, when it’s closed. Other than for visitors to the mosque. The Taj is actually a mausoleum. Built by the third Moghul Emperor for his beloved late wife. The building has not been truly symmetrical since his coffin was laid by the side of his wife – he was taller.
Post another delicious curry lunch stop, a visit to India’s second biggest fort. The double walled effort of Agra is huge; it lies on the side of a significant hill with a curved entrance between the outer and inner walls – this is to stop charging elephants headbutting both entrances down. Inside there is less now than once was as the Indian Army has claimed 75% of the former footprint for operational and administration purposes; if the efficiency approach was applied, as per previous comments, perhaps the fort could have 75% of its original footprint.
Off then to catch the 2.45 train to Jaipur.
Chris & Kath's Travel Time 