Taj Mahal - one the Seven Wonders of the World

Built by The Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1653, the Taj Mahal is one of the most famous buildings in the world and is one the Seven Wonders of the World.

Located in Agra in India the Taj Mahal was built as a monument to the Emperor’s beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal who died giving birth to their fourteenth child. Taking twenty two years and with the hands of 22000 labours what we know as the Taj Mahal was built, enabling Emperor Shah Jahan to for fill a promise to his wife as she lay on her death bed, that he will build the world’s most beautiful monument in honour of her!

The building itself has been built entirely out of white marble, bought in especially from all over Asia costing approximately 32 million rupees which would have been the equivalent of £442000. This fascinating piece of architecture is built with a high boundary wall and at each corner has big octagonal pavilions, but perhaps the most impressive feature is the elegant dome which is 80 ft high and 60 ft wide! The beautiful Taj Mahal with semi precious stone inlaid in to the marble is also the resting place of Mumtaz Mahal and the Emperor Sha Jahan himself.

The Taj Mahal today is open to the public and is one of India’s most popular tourist attractions; many tourists include a trip to the Taj Mahal as part of their holiday to India and many include in a tour of India, including cycling holidays, walking tours and more. This beautiful monument is the ultimate symbol of true love and is a must see tourist attraction!

Cycling in India

When you usually think of a holiday to India you don’t always think Immediately India cycling holiday, but in fact cycling holidays in India have become increasingly popular and are a great and responsible way to explore this diverse country.

There are plenty of tours on offer for all abilities and you will find yourself riding through Rajasthani villages, tropical forests or even in the Himalayas! By cycling your way through India you will be able to get a fantastic insight into everyday life as you meet the locals and experience the culture.

In the north of India you will be met with diverse regions and plenty to see, including the bustling capital Delhi along with the Jaipur and Agra. But perhaps the highlight would be a cycle tour through Rajasthan and seeing the mesmerising Taj Mahal!

One of the biggest cycling adventure and challenge you could do is a cycle trip through the Himalayan Kingdom; there are many trails you can take depending on your ability and experience. These cycle tours will take you to explore the low Kathmandu Valley then up to and around the entire Annapurna Massif!

Cycling is made ever more enjoyable when you are able to see some of the world’s most famous and beautiful sites. Whatever level you cycle at there is a cycling holiday in India waiting for you!