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Ranked among the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal has always appeared in my mind as an enduring symbol of love. It is said that touching the Taj Mahal grants eternal love. This is what motivated me to travel to Agra, to witness firsthand the majestic beauty of this white marble mausoleum and to feel the very breath of its past.
India has long been my dream destination, a mystical land with a rich history and magnificent architecture.
My journey began in New Delhi. After a long flight, it took me about four hours by taxi to reach Agra. Standing before the Taj Mahal, I was overwhelmed by its perfect beauty. The exquisite details, perfect symmetry, and the light reflecting off the marble made the Taj Mahal seem to shine against the blue sky. More than just an architectural masterpiece, it holds the immortal love story of Emperor Shah Jahan for his empress Mumtaz Mahal. Touching the cool walls of the Taj Mahal, I suddenly realized that some things in life can only be felt with the heart.
Leaving Agra, I continued my journey to Jaipur – the romantic pink city, a 5-hour taxi ride away. Jaipur welcomed me with its vibrant streets and magnificent architecture. My first stop was Hawa Mahal – the Palace of Winds, a unique pink masterpiece standing out in the heart of the city. From afar, Hawa Mahal appeared like a lace curtain of sandstone, with over 900 small, intricately carved windows. I touched the cool walls, gazing up at the tiny windows where the concubines of yesteryear silently watched the outside world without being seen. The wind seeped through the cracks, carrying the breath of the past, soothing the harsh Jaipur sun.
I continued my visit to Amber Palace, a magnificent hilltop fort that preserves the splendid beauty of the Rajput dynasty. From afar, I was overwhelmed by the palace's pink sandstone and white marble walls, reflecting the brilliant Jaipur sunshine. Long corridors and intricately carved walls tell the story of a once glorious dynasty. I slowly walked through each section of the palace, imagining the kings and queens who once strolled through these grounds.
Panna Meena Ka Kund is a must-see – an ancient, enchanting terraced terrace that once served as a freshwater lake supplying the entire city. The terraces are stacked upon each other in a perfectly symmetrical structure, creating a magical labyrinth in the heart of Jaipur.
The highlight of my trip was my stay at Oberoi Rajvilas – a luxurious oasis in the heart of Jaipur, which made me feel like I had stepped into a magnificent royal history. From the moment I arrived, I was captivated. The vibrant fresh flowers handled by the staff, the pristine air of the lush green grounds, and the proud peacocks strolling freely along the stone-paved paths created an enchanting and regal atmosphere.
I was immersed in the atmosphere of Rajvilas, where every detail was meticulously cared for, from the luxurious tents in the style of Rajasthani royalty to the tranquil lake reflecting the glorious sunset. But perhaps the moment that truly made me feel the royalty was the dinner here. Before the meal, I experienced the ritual of washing my hands with warm goat's milk, a lavish tradition once reserved only for the nobility. The smooth water glided over my fingers, giving me a feeling of both purity and sacredness, as if I were stepping back in time, becoming part of ancient royal banquets.
Traveling through Agra and Jaipur, I not only admired legendary architectural wonders but also felt the warmth of the people. This 7-day journey left me with beautiful memories and unforgettable moments. India is not just a story told in books; it's a journey where every step touches upon the most authentic cultural, historical, and emotional values.
