Hall of Private AudienceThis is the hall where Akbar had representatives of different religions discuss their faiths and gave private audience. It is famous for its central pillar, which has a square base and an octagonal shaft, both carved with bands of geometric and floral designs.
Central pillar of Hall of Private AudienceThe central pillar has thirty-six serpentine brackets support a circular platform for Akbar, which is connected to each corner of the building on the first floor, by four stone walkways.
Central pillar - long viewThe pillar has various carvings of the different religions that were discussed within the hall.
Panch MahalThe five-storied palatial structure, with the tiers gradually diminishing in size, till the final one, which is a single large-domed chhatri. Originally pierced stone screens faced the façade, and probably sub-divided the interior as well, suggesting it was built for the ladies of the court.
Friday MosqueAkbar and the other moguls of the Mogul Empire period were Muslim. Their holy day is Friday, thus the name Friday Mosque. Is is the view on approach to the mosque.
Tomb of Salim ChrishtiThis tomb is within the mosque grounds and is a holy monument to Salim Chrishti who was an Sufi saint revered by Akbar.
Taj EntranceThis is me and my travel companions (Anita (my roommate), Pamela, and Mary) before we enter the grounds of the Taj Mahal.
Taj MahalThis is what you see once you enter the gates to the grounds. It is so spectacular, even from this distance.
In front of the TajHere we are sitting on a bench in the grounds of the Taj.
YamunaYou can see the haze on that day that obstructed our view down the Yamuna River. If it was clear, you could see the Agra Red Fort down the river.
Wow, Virginia! Greetings! I was thinking about you and your fabulous trip, when I got a notification about your blog.
Great pics, looks like this is the trip of a lifetime! Have a safe journey home.
Strong girl Hi Virginia,
You holding the Taj...now thats a site!
We never did get to see you in a sari at the office too often eh! Its YOU!
And, I think its way warmer where you are than over here in Ottawa!
:-)
Janice Mason
non-member comment
Wow, Virginia!
Greetings! I was thinking about you and your fabulous trip, when I got a notification about your blog. Great pics, looks like this is the trip of a lifetime! Have a safe journey home.