How to Visit the Golden Triangle in India

Delhi is a sprawling metropolis and home to over 18 million people. In the past, it has served as the capital of many kingdoms and empires. Today, this international hub is a melting pot of cultures and an eclectic mix of old and new. As well as having centuries worth of history to explore, Delhi is also one of the best places in the country to experience the buzz of modern India.

India’s capital is split into two halves: Old Delhi and New Delhi. Old Delhi was built for the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and protected by more than 8 kilometres of fortified city walls. Although the walls no longer stand tall, the impressive Red Fort and Jama Masjid (India’s largest mosque) survived the city’s many invasions. Wandering through the masjid’s courtyard as flocks of birds swarm around its minaret transports you to centuries gone by. 

Old Delhi is a labyrinthine network of lanes lined with market stalls. Though seemingly overwhelming at first, there is in fact an order to the chaos. Each street is dedicated to a particular item, with traditional offerings ranging from wedding bangles to spices. Exploring the old city on a rickshaw is a hassle-free way to navigate the bustling alleys. 

To get in touch with your spiritual side, spend a day with Buddhist practitioner Shantum Seth. During the last few years, this esteemed teacher has been leading inter-faith, educational, cultural and spiritual journeys across India. Visiting the Lotus temple, Sacred Heart Cathedral, Bodhi temple, Laxminarayan temple and Gurdwara Bangla Sahib alongside him offers travellers a fascinating insight into the Buddhist, Hindu and Sikh faiths.

The Imperial

One of Delhi’s most iconic hotels, The Imperial harks back to the days of the Raj. Filled with old-world charm, it’s a historical landmark, as well as an opulent property in which to spend your days. Grandiose rooms come with beautifully styled antique furniture and marble floors. The Imperial is also a haven for foodies; four restaurants offer south east Asian, gourmet Indian and European cuisine, a tea lounge and pastry shop are perfect for those with a sweet tooth and the hotel’s two bars are some of the city’s most popular. 

The Lodhi

The Lodhi provides a more modern feel, with clean lines, crisp decor and a modern take on Moghul architecture. Despite being set in the heart of New Delhi, the hotel’s 40 rooms give it an intimate and exclusive feel. Elegant rooms come with private balconies and indoor plunge pools, with windows offering views out over Humayun’s Tomb and the Lodhi Gardens. Guests are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining options here; the On the Waterfront restaurant has a real buzz about it and is great for private parties, while The Elan focuses on India’s diverse culinary traditions from the north to the south.

The city of Agra is world renowned as being the home of the Taj Mahal, and it has been a feature of the history books for centuries. Nothing quite prepares you, though, for seeing this Wonder of the World in person. A perennial symbol of eternal love, the astonishing building is adorned with precious stones, intricate carvings and ornate inscriptions of the Quran. Although most travellers understandably visit Agra to make a pilgrimage to the Taj Mahal, it’s also worth venturing out to the magnificent Agra Fort, which lies 3km to the west of the city.

Of course, visiting the Taj Mahal is a must-do while you’re in Agra. Sitting on the banks of the holy Yamuna River within 42 acres of beautiful gardens, the domed mausoleum is surrounded by minarets on all four sides. The story behind the Taj Mahal’s construction is epic. Heartbroken after the death of his favourite wife, Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan set about building the world’s most beautiful monument in her honour. Astoundingly, it took a workforce of over 20,000 men 22 years to build, and their hard work is reflected today in the impossibly beautiful structure. As the world’s greatest symbol of love, this icon of India is truly awe-inspiring.

The Taj Mahal is undeniably Agra’s showstopper, but it is also worth visiting the sandstone Agra Fort. Just a few kilometres west of the Taj Mahal, this red fortress is where Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, there is plenty to explore in this hidden fort. Visitors can see the art and crafting of the white marble that has made the area so famous, visit the tranquil Pearl Mosque or explore the Halls of Public and Private Audience.

The Oberoi Amarvilas

Located just 600 metres from the Taj Mahal, guests at The Oberoi Amarvilas are never far away from this Wonder of the World. From the rosy glow of the morning light to the golden tint of the setting sun, the Taj Mahal’s beauty can be appreciated at every moment of the day. This property is reminiscent of the Mughal era – as you enter, you pass through a Mughal-style quadrant complete with an arched passageway and cascading fountains. Each room offers uninterrupted views of the Taj Mahal, with some even featuring bathtubs that look out over the monument. Other luxurious amenities include a restaurant specialising in Indian food, spa and domed marble steam room, outdoor pool and fully-equipped gym.  

The capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is often referred to as the Pink City. All buildings in the city were painted the same shade of terracotta pink – the colour representing hospitality – in 1876 when the Maharaja ordered this in anticipation of Prince Albert’s tour of India. Home to some of the state’s most majestic palaces, Jaipur is a fascinating cultural destination. Although the pace of life here is fast, wandering through Jaipur’s terracotta mazes is the perfect way to slow down.

While in the Pink City, there’s nothing better to do than visit Jaipur’s iconic City Palace. In keeping with the rest of the old city, the sprawling City Palace is a beautiful Mughal structure that is painted in light shades of pink throughout. A blend of Rajput and Mughal styles of architecture, the City Palace is incredibly intricate, with facades covered in the tiniest of details. While the palace is an impressive structure in itself, travellers can also visit several museums housed here, including a textile gallery exhibiting an exceptional selection of textiles and costumes from the royal collection.

The impressive Amber Fort, located in the ancient capital of Jaipur, is also worth a visit. Majestic fortress walls rise along the Rajasthani hillsides and the main building itself is extremely well preserved. On a tour of this historical landmark, travellers can visit the Jagmandir – or Hall of Victory – with its glittering mirrors, the Jai Mahal and Temple of Kali.

The Oberoi Rajvilas

Located away from the hustle and bustle of Jaipur, The Oberoi Rajvilas feels like staying in your very own fort. Here, 32 acres of incredible verdant gardens house 71 rooms, luxury tents and private villas. This luxury property is also a nod to local culture. In the heart of the resort, an 18th-century Shiva temple hosts Hindu blessings, meditation and morning yoga classes. Restaurant-wise, Raj Mahal serves rarely found Indian delicacies from October to April, while Surya Mahal serves an extensive menu of world cuisine year-round. For those who are after some exercise, the Oberoi Rajvilas also boasts a fully-equipped fitness suite, putting green, two floodlit tennis courts, a croquet lawn and an outdoor pool.