is the tah mahal a tomb
Explore the Topic. Click for detailed map. The Taj Mahal is the magnificent white marble tomb of Mughal empress Mumtaz Mahal. One of the most famous buildings in the world, the Taj Mahal is the mausoleum of Mumtaz Mahal, the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan's favorite wife who died unexpectedly during childbirth in 1631.he giant dome rises on top of the tomb, which is surrounded by four minarets, and on each facade is a grand arch, known as a pishtaq. Although the Taj Mahal appears completely white from a distance, it is profusely decorated with colorful floral motifs and black marble calligraphy of inscriptions from the Koran.