Delhi & Taj Mahal, India
Shimmering on the banks of the Yamuna River, the marble Taj Mahal is an architectural spectacle, its symmetry four minarets and matching mosques on two sides enhanced by its reflection on the water. Because worshipers must face east, only one of the mosques is functional; the other was duplicated for purposes of symmetry. (Scott Kraft / Los Angeles Times)
The onion-domed Taj, as seen through an archway. The hotel where Times staff writer Scott Kraft stayed the Oberoi Amarvilas had excellent views of the Taj Mahal, less than half a mile away. (Scott Kraft / Los Angeles Times)
Looking toward the gate from the Taj Mahal. (Scott Kraft / LAT)
Agra Fort, built by the Mogul emperor Akbar, is a vast fortified palace in the Taj Mahals city, a 145-mile drive from Jaipur. That trip over a two-lane road can require a drive to weave in and out among goats, monkeys, camels, cows, elephants, carts, tractors, with ancient forts dotting the hills above. (Scott Kraft / LAT)
