Photos

The Ganges River forms the largest tide-dominated delta in the world where it empties into the Bay of Bengal. This false-color satellite image vividly displays the large amount of sediment (violet), carried from as far away as the Himalayas, that precipitates when it abruptly encounters the sea. The delta is largely covered with a swamp forest known as the Sunderbans, which is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger. Image courtesy of USGS.

Agra Fort, also known as the Red Fort of Agra, represents the opulence and power of the Mughal Empire of the 16th to the early 18th century. The fortress, located on the right bank of the Yamuna River, is built of red sandstone and covers a length of 2.5 km (1.6 mi). It is surrounded by a moat, which encloses several palaces, towers, and mosques. Shown here is the Jahangiri Mahal, the most prominent building at Agra Fort. The entire complex was inscribed onto the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1983.

Elegant design work at Agra Fort.

A pillared porch overlooking Agra Fort.

Window at Agra Fort.

The Taj Mahal was built by Emperor Shah Jahan between 1632 and 1653 to honor the memory of his favorite wife. Located 200 km (125 mi) from New Delhi in Agra, it took nearly 22 years, 22,000 workers, and 1,000 elephants to complete the white marble mausoleum. The structure became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

Realistic bas-relief floral design in marble at the Taj Mahal.

The long reflecting pool leading to the Taj Mahal.

The Taj Mahal framed by the gateway entrance.

Minaret at the mosque of the Taj Mahal.

A floral marble design at the Taj Mahal.

A pavilion on the grounds of the Taj Mahal.