Standing on the marble platform of the Taj Mahal, look toward the two red sandstone buildings on either side of the central mausoleum. One is a mosque, while the other is known as the Mehman Khana, or guest house. At first glance, they appear almost identical. This symmetry was deliberate and forms an important part of the Taj Mahal's architectural design.
The mosque stands on the western side of the Taj Mahal complex. Its orientation serves a religious purpose because a mosque must face the direction of Mecca. The building contains the architectural elements expected of a Mughal mosque, including arches, domes and decorative details.
On the eastern side of the Taj Mahal is the building commonly called the Mehman Khana, or guest house. Unlike the mosque, it did not need to function as a mosque.
Its presence helped maintain the visual symmetry of the entire complex. This is an important point when understanding Mughal architecture: symmetry was not merely decoration; it was fundamental to the design philosophy of the Taj Mahal.
If only the mosque had been placed beside the mausoleum, the western side of the complex would have appeared visually heavier. The matching eastern structure balances the overall composition and creates a sense of harmony.
From the central axis, the mosque and Mehman Khana help create the extraordinary symmetry for which the Taj Mahal is famous. Their similar architectural forms frame the central mausoleum and reinforce the balanced appearance of the monument.
Many visitors spend almost all their time looking at the central tomb. However, it is worth spending a few minutes examining both the mosque and Mehman Khana.
The contrast between the red sandstone and white marble, along with the arches, domes and decorative details, provides a much better understanding of the careful architectural planning behind the Taj Mahal complex.
