I’ve seen so many photos of the Taj Mahal I felt the real thing would only disappoint me. I quickly discovered that no matter how jaded a traveler you may be, this magnificent monument to love is a true wonder and lives up to all the surrounding hype.

I really wanted to avoid the cliché shots found in travel brochures. I arrived before sunrise and spent hours soaking up the atmosphere, watching the fog dissipate, colors change and of course taking many shots. I think this one captures the peace and calm found shortly before the mass of tourists arrive.