The Actual Tomb

The Taj Mahal in Agra is situated more than 275 m. away from the entrance at the opposite end of the garden. Towering almost 76m. in height, the tomb stands on its own marble base, which rests on a red sandstone stage that serves to level the land as it slopes to the river. Four high minarets rise up from the corners of the white marble base. They taper to a royal height of 138 ft. and are crowned with eight windowed cupolas. Stylishly inflection the central structure, framing the space like the mounting of a gemstone.

Each section in the front is well demarked on both sides by close pilasters which increasing from the pedestal level of the tomb grow above the frieze and are crowned by beautiful peaks with lotus sprouts and finials. The peaks ornament the superstructure and help along with the other features to break the skyline stylishly. The Taj Mahal is entered through the gateway on the south side. Inside, two stories of eight rooms enclose a central chamber.