FRONT COURTYARD
The Taj Mahal is really neat, as you will see in the other web
pages. The front courtyard is inside the complex, but outside the gateway to the
Taj Mahal. It felt like this was the place for all the guards and slaves to
sleep in. When I was there, the Indian Army/Guards were using part of it as
their sleeping quarters. The only part that destroyed the serene and peaceful view
were the peddlers trying to shove trinkets and pictures into your pocket in
exchange for your wallet.
This is the entrance across the one we came in from. Our entrace was closed with a
really tiny opening to squeeze through. The entrance to the
Taj Mahal was less than a dollar for an Indian national and twenty-five bucks for
foreigners. Quite a difference. Even though I look white/red, my dad convinced
them I was an Indian national during the first visit that evening. They didn't
buy into the argument on the second day though, so I had to pay the foreigner
fare. To be or not to be Indian....apparently it depends on the day of the
week...
Once you walk into the front courtyard, the gateway to the Taj Mahal was to
our right. There were tour buses on the other side of the courtyard. The gateway
looks impressive, especially the deep red color. There's my dad in the
foreground. Keep in mind that this trip is after an entire day of riding the
train. My dad is such a great sport!
This section was closed off to visitors. Its the building facing the
gateway, and vis versa. No idea what purpose it served. I posted this to give an
idea of the garden cleanliness and maintenance. I wish I could adopt some of the
gardeners to take care of my front lawn. Actually, its more like a weed garden.
Finally, a picture of me. I think you can figure out by this picture why
they wouldn't buy into the fact that I was an Indian national. :) This pic is taken
from the doorway into the Taj Mahal, facing out onto the gateway. There is a
significance for the eleven dome-thingies on the top of the gateway, but I can't
remember why. Those that know me won't be surprised by that fact. :P