The Golden Triangle of north India is one of the most popular and well-received tourist circuits of the country. The tour basically covers three of the most vibrant, beautiful and amazing cities of India. Delhi, the country’s capital for decades, Agra- the seat of power during much of Mughal rule and home to the spectacular Taj Mahal, and Jaipur – the Rajasthani Capital with its traditions of chivalry and valor. Anyone even slightly acquainted with India would know that she has no one face, no single image. With a full acknowledgment of this reality, the golden triangle tour has been structured in a manner that includes some of her best images and at the same time captures her diversity. Starting with Delhi, one sees a modern metropolitan that is home to people of different regions, languages, and cultures. Created mainly between the thirteenth and seventeenth centuries, today Delhi is equipped with all the advantages of a modern city and has the added appeal of having a rich historical and cultural basis that can be seen at every nook and corner in her streets. From the bustling lanes of her old city to the archaic charm of her Lutyens center to the many monuments that mark the richness of her past to her shopping arcades and contemporary malls – each of these offers a different flavor of the Delhi experience. From here we move on to where we witness a completely different atmosphere. Agra – biggest claim to fame is the Taj Mahal which stands as a lasting tribute to love and lovers beyond time. Chosen to be the seat of their power by the Mughals, this city began its journey to fame in 1526 with the arrival of the Mughal King Babur. Filled with architectural gems, it also has a rich tradition of handicrafts and culture. One of the best things about Agra is that it offers easily accessible and adventurous excursion possibilities like the Bharatpur bird sanctuary, and the Fatehpur Sikri famous for its mystic Sufism. Then we come to Jaipur. This capital of the state of Rajasthan was actually color washed with pink to create an impression similar to the red sandstone of the Mughal cities. Like any good tourist spot Jaipur has all the amenities of the big city, but its real charm lies only in the inner lanes and streets of her markets. The regal aspect of this desert city is obvious to all who visit her and the atmosphere is infused with the romance, adventure and bravery of an amazingly rich historical tradition. Jaipur is also popular for its Elephant Festival which is unique to it. Complete with its camels, elephant rides, desert sounds and folk culture, Jaipur is one of the most colorful experiences one can hope to have.
