The Indias Golden Triangle is the most popular tourist attraction in India, and for very good reason. Delhi, Agra and Jaipur are these three cities that capture your imagination and take you into the decadent, fascinating, and passionate world of the maharajas and Mughals. What they left behind is some of the world’s best architecture, from the Qutab Minar in Delhi to the Amber Fort in Jaipur and of course the Taj Mahal in Agra.
Ancient to Modern Day Delhi
If you only have a couple of days in Delhi, then you really don’t have time to spare, Most Golden Triangle tours start in Delhi, & rightly so; the capital city is truly spectacular.so head straight Golden Triangle tours to Chandni Chowk. The centre of Old Delhi, this market was created by Shah Jahan in 1650 A.D., and is still one of the most vibrant parts of the city. The narrow alleyways are filled with stalls selling spices of every scent, cloth, electronics as well as a lane that is famous for selling any kind of parantha you desire. The chaos of Chandni Chowk is an assault on your senses, an experience that makes you feel truly alive!
Stop for lunch at Karim’s, famous for its finger licking kebabs and then head to the splendid Red Fort or Lal Qila. Nearby is the Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India that can hold up to 25,000 people! Whilst its size alone is massive, the beautiful blend of intricately carved white marble and red sandstone makes this site just incredible. If you still have some time left, it is worth visiting Raj Ghat, the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi. In the evening, head back to Red Fort to see the lively Sound and Light Show.
Head back into Delhi for a short break and picnic at Lodhi Gardens. From there, visit Humayun’s Tomb, the most spectacular resting place in Delhi. Set amongst huge gardens, and with intricate carvings of stars, this is a site not to be missed.
In the evening, stop at India Gate just as night falls to see it lit up in all its glory. You can also snack on chaat and enjoy the carnival atmosphere here.
Incredible Taj Mahal
The next morning, get up early for the drive to Agra. On the way, stop at Fatehpur Sikri, the ancient fortified city that was once the capital of the Mughal Empire. The fort provides an insight into the life of Emperor Akbar, with homes for his Hindu, Christian and Muslim wives, and a spectacular masjid. Take your time and explore this city before continuing onto Agra.
Agra is of course home to the Taj Mahal, the most recognisable building in the world. Prepare yourself; this icon of romance is simply breathtaking in real life. Built by Shah Jahan as a memorial for his favourite wife Mumtaz, this is sure to be the highlight of your Golden Triangle trip.
After you have wandered through the grounds of the Taj Mahal, visit Agra Fort, where his ruthless son Aurangzeb held Shah Jahan captive. It was here that he would gaze across the river to the Taj Mahal and remember his beautiful Mumtaz. In the evening, dine under the stars like an emperor at Esphahan Restaurant in the luxurious Oberoi Amarvilas
Pink City of Jaipur Rajasthan
Your journey to the Pink City of Jaipur commences early. Once you reach Jaipur, the Old City is the best place to begin. The Hawa Mahal is an iconic building that hides many secrets of the ladies who once lived here. In between its hidden openings, the women were able to secretly observe life outside their palace. If you listen carefully, you can almost hear them whispering and giggling to each other as you wander through the halls of the Hawa Mahal in Rajasthan tours.
Nearby is the City Palace, which blends Rajasthani and Mughal architecture perfectly. From its brightly painted Pitam Niwas Courtyard, with reliefs that represent every season, to the intricately engraved armory room, the City Palace will give you a peak into the elegant world of the maharajas. If you have enough time, you can also visit Jantar Mantar, which houses a collection of some of the most fascinating scientific instruments. Don’t miss the sundial that has a 27 meter high gnomon.