The word ‘tourist’ is thrown around more casually than it should be. At its core, every tourist has one thing in common; the love for travel. With that one single common quality, there are multiple differences too. As a result, you can classify tourists into categories such as backpackers, bird-watchers, architecture lovers, adventure sports enthusiasts, wildlife lovers and many more.
There are few places in the world that win widespread attention from a variety of tourists. India’s famed Golden Triangle tourist circuit is surely one of them. The Golden Triangle spans the cities of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur; three of North India’s most iconic cities.
A Golden Triangle tour by car is high on a lot of people’s list of must-visit destinations. All thanks to the vast variety of experiences on offer. It’s guaranteed; no two tourists can ever share the same perspective about a Golden Triangle tour by car. If there’s one thing they would agree upon however, they would say they had a marvellous experience.At least I did have a fantastic time on Golden triangle tour a few days back when I had booked my Golden triangle tour with Waytoindia.com.
For the Admirers of Architecture
Forts, monuments, palaces; the architectural splendour from the ages gone by is bound to keep architecture admirers amazed throughout the duration of a Golden Triangle Tour. While most of Delhi and Agra’s iconic architecture portray Mughal styles, it’s the glorious work of Rajput-era builders on show in the Rajasthani capital of Jaipur.
Not far from Agra lies the fortified city of Fatehpur Sikri, which served as the capital of the Akbar-led Mughal Empire for a brief period of time. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site now, the city comprises of a stunningly beautiful mosque, the Jama Masjid, and a host of palaces that feature exquisite examples of Mughal courtyards, gateways and pavilions.
- Delhi: Humayun’s Tomb, Jama Masjid, Red Fort, Qutb Minar
- Agra: Agra Fort, Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, The Taj Mahal Complex
- Jaipur: Amer Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Jal Mahal, Jantar Mantar, Nahargarh Fort
For Nature Lovers and Wildlife Enthusiasts
While the cities of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur are frighteningly chaotic, travel to their outskirts, and you would come in close contact with the natural beauty these places have to offer. Delhi has made the headlines for its status as one of the world’s most polluted cities, and if you have no desire to spend time in its concrete jungle, head to nearby Noida.
Noida too, is on the verge of development, but is home to one of the finest bird sanctuaries in India; the Okhla Bird Sanctuary. The sanctuary boasts of more than 320 bird species, including several endangered and vulnerable ones such as the Indian vulture, white-rumped vulture, bristled grassbird, sarus crane and Indian skimmer.
A three-hour ride from Jaipur would take you to one of India’s proudest wildlife reserves; the Ranthambore National Park. Regarded as India’s best destination when it comes to spotting tigers, the national park is also home to a ruined fort, which dates back to the 10th Century. Ancient mosques and temples lie scattered in the fort’s vicinity, and they make for incredible viewing. Apart from tigers, Ranthambore is home to jackals, macaques, black bucks, hyenas, foxes, hedgehogs, mongoose and a host of other animal species; truly a paradise for a wildlife lover.
For Foodies
Indian food has definitely made its mark around the world, and much of that is down to traditional North Indian and Rajasthani cuisine. What better way to experience them than in their country of origin itself?
Delhi has no shortage of fancy eateries, but if you want to know what authentic Delhi food is all about, stay away from those eateries and head to Old Delhi, whose most famous food destination is Chandni Chowk. Fondly known as India’s “food capital”, Chandni Chowk is devoid of posh eateries. Its narrow and crowded lanes may not look the most appealing, but remember your purpose; you went there for the food! And what a glorious variety of food indeed! Paranthas, chaat (street food), sweets; Chandni Chowk has them all, and once you start, it’s hard to stop the feast. If you are in the mood for some memorable non-vegetarian food, head to ‘Ghantewala’. The establishment serves some excellent butter chicken, mutton korma, reshmi kabab and tandoori chicken.
On to Jaipur next! Even though Rajasthan is, geographically speaking, in North India, its cuisine is spectacularly individual. Rajasthani cuisine has been typically dry over the years, thanks to the state’s arid setting. Bajre ki roti, a staple in the street, is usually accompanied by sumptuous vegetarian curries such as aloo matar ki sabji, haldi ko saag, daal baati churma, and sweets like gujia, jhajariya, mawa kachori and balushahi. Popular and affordable eateries in Jaipur include the likes of Laxmi Misthan Bhandar, Ganesh Restaurant and Natraj. If you want to spend big however, head to either Sheesha or Copper Chimney.
A Golden Triangle tour by car is bound to be fun, no matter what kind of tourist you are. Whether you are a casual tourist or a geek, India’s Golden Triangle has a lot to offer!
