Entrance
The walled complex is approached from the south through a red sandstone forecourt, Chowk-i Jilo Khana, whose wide paths, flanked by arched kiosks, run to high gates in the east and west. The original entrance, a massive arched gateway topped with delicate domes and adorned with Koranic verses, stands at the northern edge of Chowk-i Jilo Khana, and acts as a shield. However,we(I and other visitors) were permitted inside through an entrance which is a narrow archway in the southern wall to the right of the gate and is complete with security checks.

Taj structure
Essentially square in shape, with peaked arches cut into its sides, the Taj Mahal surmounts a square marble platform marked at each corner by a high minaret. Topped with a huge central dome, its height is accentuated by a crowning brass spire . I had to move closer to appreciate fully its awesome magnitude and fine detail of relief carving, highlighted by floral patterns of precious stones.

The Taj Mahal Tomb: I decided to explore the interiors of Taj and went inside through the main entrance which is south face of the tomb. I felt like an Alice in wonderland : Inside is a high, echoing octagonal chamber flushed with pallid light reflected by yellowing marble surfaces. The marble screen is cut so finely that it seems almost translucent. Decorated with precious stones, it scatters dappled light over the cenotaph of Mumtaz Mahal in the centre of the tomb, and that of Shah Jahan next to it. I saw attendants gladly illuminating the decorations with torches. The 99 names of Allah adorn the top of Mumtaz's tomb, and set into Shah Jahan's is a pen box, the hallmark of a male ruler. These cenotaphs, in accordance with Moghul tradition, are only representations of the real coffins, which lie in the same positions in an unadorned and humid crypt below that's heavy with the scent of heady incense and rose petals.

The changing faces of the Taj due to changing colors was a real revelation to me. It was like a celestial experience to me and I felt as if I had been transported to the other world. The Taj is pinkish in the morning, milky white in the evening and golden when the moon shines.