The Golden Triangle: Delhi - Agra - Jaipur

Family vacations are rare, specially when everyone's caught up in their own schedule. We finally managed to get ourselves together and decide to go on a quick yet worthwhile trip. Like always, after numerous discussions and Yes's and No's, we came to a common conclusion (which is a miracle ;)) that we would visit what is famously called The Golden Triangle - Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.

After battling the flight delays, we landed in Delhi to a pouring afternoon. We checked-in to our hotel and decided to take on the streets of Delhi for what its famous for - Delhi Chaats. You sure will not be disappointed. I am not a big fan of chaat, but the chaat thela's of Delhi will soon make you an avid chaat lover.

The next day we were set to city tour Delhi. The first early morning stop was The India Gate. This place effortlessly brings the feeling of patriotism in you. To visit Delhi just after the Republic Day wrap up is so emotional. Navigating through Delhi is not tricky at all. The directions are very clear. As long as you maneuver the traffic, you're good. The Qutub Minar, Humayun's Tomb spell history that is hard to not be overwhelmed at. The Lotus Temple and Akshardham dispense serenity, creativity, purity and calmness to every soul.

India Gate

The Qutub Minar

Humayun's Tomb

For a Delhiwala it's the usual, but for a tourist, the Dilli ki sardi accompanied with garam garam Jalebi's on the streets of Chandni Chowk, The kebab's at Kareem is a definite treat.

After a heart warming stay at Delhi, it was now time to explore Agra. The first and the only place that comes to mind when anyone thinks of Agra is The Taj Mahal. I had a lot of expectations from this place and I wasn't disappointed at all. There is no reason why, it shouldn't be one of the wonder's of the world. There is no reason why, it shouldn't symbolize love. There is no reason why, you would not fall in love with a place like this. No prizes for guessing, this place will definitely make you fall in love with not just your partner, also with yourself.

The Taj Mahal

They say the beauty of The Taj increases exponentially on a Full Moon Night. I am sure it does and I would love to come back to witness the beauty of this gorgeous creation and fall in love all over again.

We then continued our voyage to Jaipur. Jaipur is a city of colors - vibrant colors. It just perks up your day and brings in a big smile. Our visit to The Ajmer Fort, Fatehpur Sikri and Hazrat Sheikh Salim Chisti's Dargah was enchanting. These places only prove the unending curious lifestyle of  Akbar, the Great and Jodha Bai who fell in love with dignity and respected each other's differences which is a rare sign today. The devotees who come to Salim Chasti's Dargah claim that the Dargah has magical powers to fulfill your wishes. 

Jodha Bai's Palace in Fatehpur Sikri

Hazrat Sheikh Salim Chisti's Dargah in Fatehpur Sikri

The Hawa Mahal proves it's beauty as the sun sets and you take a stroll on the busiest streets of Jaipur. 

The Hawa Mahal just at the sunset in Jaipur

You cannot leave Jaipur without gorging on the very famous Pyaaz ki Kachori and of course treating yourself to some Jaipur Shopping. If Chandani Chowk, Karol Bagh and Khan Market in Delhi boast of modernized outfits, then the streets of Jaipur leave no stone un-turned with their colorful Bandani's and Mojari's. They alwys will hold a special place in your wardrobe.

As I depart from this trip, I realize India is a country that is enriched with History. Indians have to take time off to explore it. See you soon with my next expedition. Until then, happy travelling!!!