Day 4: Taj Mahal (23.02.2017)

Highlights of today were the train ride and of course the Taj Mahal. My friend Brendon and I dared to adventure the train ride in the 'Sleeper Class'. A tiny compartment consisted of 2 times 3 beds stacked on top of each other. To manage the mass of people, a row of beds was added in the aisle.

Fortunately, we quickly found a train that safely took us to Agra despite a 2-hour delay. As luck would have it, we met a nice German family who kept us company along the way. The 3 women, consisting of mother, daughter, and aunt, were on a business trip in India. They had clothing manufactured cheaply in India and presumably sold them for a lot of money in Germany. There were no air conditioners, but all the windows were open, so there was always a pleasant temperature in the train and the smell was limited. Beggars and small traders were bustling in the aisle, promoting their goods on the train. The seating was very comfortable and you could always decide to take a nap.

Finally arrived in Agra, we rushed to the Taj Mahal, which was going to close shortly after sunset. With a cheap tour guide in tow, we marveled at the wonderful mausoleum. We were speechless with awe. Perfect symmetry under a brightly blue sky was worth every cent. The nice guide in the photo made a lot of effort and accompanied us for 2 hours for only 5 Euro. It was a shame though that the attraction was flooded with Chinese tourists waving their selfie sticks around.

Having overcome the shock of the first day, the Taj Mahal gave us strength and hope for the days to come. Once you have learned to tolerate India, its culture, its habits, the dirt, the stench, and the noise, you recognize how unique and beautiful it can be! Tomorrow we are heading to Varanasi. Let's see if I dare to take the plunge into the Ganges...