Among the most beautiful and desirable destinations in the world seems to follow an equal and most times overlapping list of places to avoid. Whether the language barrier and culture is overwhelming for visitors many exotic vacation spots bring with them cause to worry. From high prices to overbearing crowds, this possible “tourist trap” while scenic, could be more troublesome than expected.
The Taj Mahal
Considered “the jewel” of India and benchmark of Muslim art, the world famous Taj Mahal holds number one on the list of probable tourist entrapment. The beautiful 17th century mausoleum built in memory of former Emperor Shah Jahan’s third wife Mumtaz Mahal, is not only on a beacon of ancient beauty but is atop the Seven Wonders of the World list.
Coincidentally the prices for admission top the list of most ridiculous and foreign prejudice. While the natives pay small fees to enter the world famous Heritage Site, tourists are charged 20 times the normal rate with additional toll taxes for vehicle entry to and from the area.
A 250 rupee entry fee with additional 500 rupee toll fee for vehicles is the normal midday fee, a 750 rupee fee along with the same toll fee is applied for visiting night tourists that will give you a whopping 30 minute time window to tour the entire place. Local citizens pay 20 rupees (50 cents American) with no toll fee and reportedly 2013 will bring about a 1000 rupee fee for tourists not including the vehicle toll fee and possible additional photo fees.
It is reported that the white marble dome that is the focal point of the Taj Mahal is most beautiful as it changes color according to the sun and moon light. Many travel sites suggest to get to the gorgeous wonder before sunrise or near dusk for optimal photo opportunity and equally heightened ticket prices.
Across the nearby Agra river the Taj Mahal is clearly visible for perfect photo captivity for free outside the confines of the sites high priced museum setting. Of course, it is with slight caution that travelers chance the free photo opportunity if one can stand the smell of the rotting sewage and rat infestation that surrounds the outskirts of the Agra River.
Tags: Taj Mahal, tourist trap, worst tourist trap, expensive tourist trap,
Metadescription: Both famous and beautiful, the Taj Mahal draws a large tourist crowd with equally large entry fees. Luckily the World Wonder is divine enough not to scare away visitors but could perhaps be one of the Top Tourist Traps to Avoid.
