Signature India & the Taj Mahal

Agra in the state of Uttar Pradesh was once ancient capital of the great Mughal Empire and is home of the Taj Mahal, considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. This matches the architectural gem was built as a mausoleum by the Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved queen, Empress Mumtaz Mahal who died giving birth to his 14th child. The “Dream in Marble” is remarkable for its perfect balance and proportions. It was completed in 1648 and marks the most developed state of Mughal architecture.

The juxtaposition of ancient and modern worlds is perhaps nowhere more evident than in Delhi, a city of eight million. In the old part of town, visit the dome-topped mausoleum of Emperor Humayun and the imposing Red Fort built for emperors. Though the solid gold ceiling and precious gems of its Peacock Throne were looted by Persians in the 18th century, the immense palace resonates with the glory and wealth of the Mughal Dynasty.

In classic rags-to-riches fashion, Bombay grew from mud flats and marshland to the richest industral center in the country. Ten million people bustle through her streets daily. A study in contrasts, Bombay embraces Western-style skyscrapers at Nariman Point, historic building from the last century’s “Golden Period” around Bombay Fort, the festival atmosphere of contortionists and vendors at Chowpatty Beach and the reverence of numerous cultures and creeds. Bombay is India’s Hollywood–don’t miss a tour of the movie studios.