Day 17 & 18 - Agra

Fatehpur Sikri - Mughal Capital before it was moved to Agra and then Delhi 

Taj with artistic reflection

A good looking chick and a fat bloke on the VIP seat made famous by Lady Di

Art/sun burn

Taj from the West

Gigantic woman 

I was really looking forward to some leaves

Agra Fort - The builder of the Taj was imprisoned here by his son for 8 years so he could only see his creation from his prison window. Top defensive moat with crocodiles on one side and tigers on the other 

Itimad-ud-daulah - aka the baby  Taj. Romantic love type picture

Water buffalo bathing time

Long drive from Ranthambhore to Agra stopping on route at Fatehpur Sikri - the fortified ancient city 40 k's from Agra. Fairly aggressive sales tactics from hawkers nearly led to international conflict when some massive guy nearly knocked Sally over and some good old fashioned male chest puffing took place

Unfortunately Sally was still fairly ill with a severe gastro intestinal killer bug and emergency antibiotics were deployed at 1.00 am followed by a 5.30 rise to get to the sunrise at the Taj. Sun was unfortunately slightly obscured by the haze and pollution but it was still good to get in nice and early before the onslaught of tour buses arrived. We were also lucky enough to have a guide fluent in Hindi and with very little knowledge of what he was talking about which greatly enhanced our visit. I can't say we were both struck down with emotion at what Kipling called 'a tear drop on the face of humanity' but i can confirm the Mughal chaps did a tidy job. In all seriousness it is something one should try and see before you lose your wicket, the artistry of the builders is breathtaking and the perfection of symmetry and proportion is staggering.

After the Taj we visited the Agra Fort. This was very similar to the Delhi Red Fort, being built around the same time, but viewing was restricted due to the large military presence. Still very much worth the visit but unfortunately plucking of leaves was not allowed (see above)

We then dragged our guide and driver begrudgingly to Itimad- Ud-Daulah other wise known as the baby Taj. This was clearly missed off the tour guides hit list as we were the only ones there. This tomb was built before the Taj Mahal and one can see all the building technologies being tested and adjusted with some truly staggering results. This was a peaceful and beautiful little gem in one of the largest tourist traps in the world.

Very sadly we lose Yogish (Paul), our driver, tomorrow. A top bloke but rubbish at driving and tour guiding, we will most definitely be raising a glass of  Kingfisher to this lovable rouge with our biryiani this evening.

Sally watch will resume tonight so if she doesn't make it through the night i'll do a quick post tomorrow morning.