Truly breathtaking. Saw the sunrise at the Taj Mahal and stayed there for a couple of hours. Every minute of the day brings a different view as the lights and shades reflect on the building. It is such a magnificent place! Always thought it was pure white but it is the reflection of its encrusted gems that gives the monument a silvery/shining color.

The story is as romantic as you can get, or as sign of power if scepticism defines you. The emperor Shah Jahan was ridden with grief when his "favorite wife" died during the birth of her 14th child that he commissioned the construction of the building as her memorial. It took 22 years, 22.000 workers, working 24h/day and a cost of 32 million rupees (1632-1653)

The story took us to a very interesting discussion about  love, death, power, greed, sacrifices. What we did agree is that it is better to demonstrate love to someone when they are still alive! :) (That is also what my mum used to say....!!!!)

We spent the afternoon in the mosque in Agra, were tons of local people gather to eat, pray and get together. It is so unusual for us  to see so many people and yet it has been difficult to establish any relationship or even talk to anyone. We are struck by how many people want to take their photos with us, as we are "rare specimens" in same remote areas. Mostly, we are seen as "potential clients", a means to get some kind of money. It is frustrating as it takes away some of the enjoyment.

Drove in a nightmare freeway at night.....it was not planned, believe me....to Jaipur, the "pink city".

Look closer (double click on the picture).
 Gracie drinking mate on the streets of Jaipur!

The tuk tuk stand at Jaipur