Whether they realize it or not, most tourists visiting India for the first time follow the famous “Golden Triangle” route which connects the three majors points of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.
When traced on a map, the route forms a triangular shape- dotted with many famous sites.
After traveling this well-loved traveler’s route with a group of ladies in October, these were just a few of the unforgettable highlights.
Delhi
Delhi is truly a spectacle and the first point of the “triangle”. This sprawling city has a whopping population of 19 million and is not be missed on a first trip to India. It is unlike any other place in the world and truly justifies the country’s slogan “Incredible India.”
Totally unique to itself, Delhi will overwhelm you with a shock of colors, smells, foods, crowds, history and beautiful architecture.
Rickshaw Ride
You can’t come to India and NOT ride in a rickshaw- it’s a rite of passage! But beware of the Delhi traffic. You’re likely to get stuck behind thousands of other carts, rickshaws and yes, even the occasional cow. These skilled and agile drivers will dart and weave you through the most absurd winding streets and jam-packed alleys. Hang on for the ride!
Khari Baoli- Old Spice Market
The spice market in Old Dehli is a must-see!
Did you know it’s four centuries old?! FOUR!
Some shops even have their original names and are run by the 9th or 10th generation of spice sellers in the family.
Cramped and winding alleyways tout massive bags of wholesale spices. The scent is overwhelming to say the least!
Looking to buy some of these spices and bring them home? I highly recommend Mehar Chand & Sons!
Here you can buy the wholesale spices sold in the market but in smaller, prepackaged amounts. It makes for an excellent gift to bring back home!
Address: 6535, Near, Khari Baoli Rd, Fatehpuri, Masjid, Delhi, 110006, India
Raj Ghat- Gandi’s Memorial
This garden and black marble platform house the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi.
The adored and infamous peace leader who won Indian independence from Britain through non-violence was assassinated on January 30th, 1948 and cremated at Raj Ghat the following day. An eternal flame still burns next to the memorial.
Address: Behind Red Fort, New Delhi, Delhi 110006, India
Red Fort
Constructed in 1639, this historic fort was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.
As one of the largest monuments, it’s one of Delhi’s greatest tourist attractions.
Inside you’ll find stunning gardens, market shops, beautiful architecture and plenty of monkeys!
Address: Netaji Subhash Marg, Lal Qila, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, Delhi 110006, India
The Jama Masjid of Delhi
This mosque is not only one of the largest in Delhi but in all of India. Built at a cost of one million rupees by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan between 1650 and 1656- this stunning mosque is sure to take your breath away. History, beauty and stunning architecture all rolled into one.
When you visit, you will be provided with a robe for modesty. Women must be fully covered. And like all mosques, you will be expected to take your shoes off out front.
Open Daily: 7AM-12PM & 1:30-6:30PM
Address: Jama Masjid Rd, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, Delhi 110006, India
Humayun’s Tomb
This breathtaking site is the tomb of the Mughal Emperor Humayun. Located in Dehli, it was commissioned by Humayun’s first wife and chief consort, Empress Bega Begum, in 1569.
It’s a lovely place to watch the sunset after a day of sight-seeing!
Address: Mathura Road Opposite, Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia Dargah, Nizamuddin, New Delhi, Delhi 110013, India
Agra
Famed as “the City of Love”, Agra is home to not only the Taj Mahal but a number of beautiful forts, mosques, shops and mausoleums. This city sits on the banks of the Yamuna river in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.
Agra Fort
This massive historical fort was the main residence of the emperors of the Mugha Dynasty. They lived and ruled in Agra until 1638 when the capital moved to Dehli.
Today you can roam the royal courtyards where the elephants once paraded, see where the thousands of concubines lived and stand right where Emperor Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his brother.
After he built the Taj Mahal for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, Shah Jahan spent his remaining years mourning her death, imprisoned in Agra Fort, with a perfect view of the Taj Mahal from his bedroom.
Address: Agra Fort, Rakabganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282003, India
Taj Mahal
Considered the most beautiful building in the world and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal is an icon.
Although you’ve probably seen countless photos of this majestic mausoleum, nothing compares to seeing it in person.
Commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan for his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal; it also houses the tomb of the emperor himself.
Read: HOW TO GET A PHOTO ALONE AT THE TAJ MAHAL
Jaipur
Known as “the pink city”, Jaipur is the capital of India’s Rajasthan state. And why is the entire city pink you may be wondering?!
Because in 1876, the Princes of Wales and Queen Victoria paid a visit to the city. Since pink is the color of hospitality in India, Maharaja Ram Singh painted all of Jaipur pink.
What a way to welcome the guests!
Amer Fort
The main tourist attraction in Jaipur does not disappoint! This massive fort is seated high on a hill. And many tourists will opt to ride a jeep to the top rather than walk in the heat. T
hey also have the option of riding an elephant up but please do NOT chose this option. It’s extremely harmful to the elephants.
You might see the fort called Amer Fort or Amber Fort but it’s all one in the same!
Warning: sales hassling will be more intense here.
There are many vendors who will not take no for answer easily. From the moment you arrive, you will be followed by merchants trying to push their souvenirs on you. I found Amer Fort to be the only place we went with too intense of sales hassling.
Address: Devisinghpura, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302001, India
Panna Meena ka Kund– Ancient Step Well Near Amer Fort
This incredibly well preserved site features ancient steps leading down to a well. These steps wells (or “baori”) were a popular form of water storage in ancient India in which people could filter and gather rain water.
The water was then accessed by climbing down the stairs encompassing the well. There are a number of preserved step wells throughout the country but the one near Amer Fort is remarkably intact and easy to access.
And since it was once a step well for the wealthy and elite citizens of Amer, it is particularly beautiful!
If you chose to ride a jeep on your way up to Amer Fort, just request to make a stop here first. It’s right on the way!
Address: Near Kheri Gate, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302028, India
The City Palace
Although the entire city of Jaipur is painted pink, the City Palace is an absolute explosions of pink! Walls, ceilings, floors- everything pink.
The palace and the grounds are open to visitors but still home to the royal family since 1727 AD.
There is an additional charge to enter the palace itself and see the private rooms including the famous blue room! (Nearly $50 USD)
However the general public area provides plenty of incredible places to explore, photograph and marvel over!
Address: Tulsi Marg, Gangori Bazaar, J.D.A. Market, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002, India
Hawa Mahal “The Palace of Winds“
With 953 windows, Hawa Mahal is easily the world’s prettiest and most extravagant screen porch!
Constructed in 1799 for Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh as part of the women’s section of the enormous City Palace, it is only one room deep in some areas.
This splendid site is located right in downtown Jaipur. And in the evenings, it’s beautifully lit!
Best Lunch Spot with a view: The Tattoo Cafe & Lounge
Address: Hawa Mahal Rd, Badi Choupad, J.D.A. Market, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002, India
Patrika’s Gate
Made famous by Instagram, this gate is a popular spot to take photos! It’s a public archway, free to enter and a busy hang out spot for locals.
With its intricate and stunning design it’s easy to see why it’s a favorite among photographers!
Address: Patrika Gate, JLN Road, Jawahar Circle, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302018, India
Shop My Favorite Looks For India:
Birkenstocks
Wicker Bag
Green Flowy Skirt
Boho Maxi Skirt
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