Taj Mahal

Sunrise or Sunset?

Get to the Taj early - sunrise is undoubtedly the best time to avoid the huge crowds and the heat. As the sun rises and the early morning mists clear, the delicately carved white marble walls are slowly unveiled to dazzling effect.On the other hand… sunset has to afford the most impressive views of the Taj. As the sun goes down the white marble first takes on a rich golden sheen, which slowly gives way to rose-pink hues, then deep red and finally blue with the changing light. Mesmerising.

And while in Agra, visit the Red Fort, a key strategic stronghold of the Mughal Empire. A citadel of over 500 buildings, once you are inside the fortified red walls a palatial city spreads out before you. Fairy-tale palaces, elegant courtyards and exquisitely crafted mosques create the city within a city.

Meanwhile, just outside Agra is Fatehpur Sikri, another Mughal palace-city. The Emperor Akbar moved his capital there in 1571, with the Red Fort just down the road for protection if it was ever needed. Only occupied for 14 years, its palaces and courtyards feel as though they were occupied until yesterday.

As far as grand designs go, they don’t come any grander than in Agra.