01/08/2026
Getting out of Delhi was an adventure! Our driver Haseen was amazing, and I’d absolutely be making that face too if I was driving there! But soon we were on the new toll highway with almost nobody, driving smoothly through never-ending fields of mustard (who knew?!).
In Agra we met our guide who quickly checked us into our hotel and took us to our first historical site, Agra Fort. He was extremely knowledgable, full of interesting information and disdain for the British Empire. Before heading back to the hotel, he took us to a tourist shop for carpets, jewelry and silk products. Note the stencil in the background of the pic of the carpet designer… someone had commissioned a rug with the Toronto Maple Leafs logo, lol.
Back to the hotel for a nap, then off for our first real Indian meal. We literally ate some of everything and it was delish!!! Last stop of the day was the Taj Mahal’s East Gate after dark.
On the 2 days before and after a full moon you can book timed ticketed entry to no more than 50 people per half hour. For our time slot, there was me, Sarah, and three youngish guys from the UK. That’s it! While electronics aren’t permitted, and the fog and smog kept us from seeing more than an outline, it was absolutely surreal to be on the grounds with just 3 other visitors. Did I get any pictures, no! Did I have an experience I will remember as long as l live, heck yes.