Heavy showers early this morning today washed all the dust and pollutants turning Taj Mahal sparkling white ahead of US President Barack Obama's visit to the city on January 27. The authorities have stepped up their efforts to spruce up the 17th century monument of love and its surrounding areas ahead of the Obama visit.

The 12-km stretch of road from the Kheria Air Force Station, where Obama will land, to the eastern gate of Taj Mahal is being given a face-lift. Potholes have been filled, encroachments removed, tree trunks painted white and red, flower pots placed, and street-lights have been fixed on the stretch.

President Obama is expected to reach Taj Mahal around 2pm.

He is scheduled to spend an hour at the historical site. Reports indicated that Obama and his entourage will head back home from Agra, instead of returning to Delhi.