So you’ve made it to Delhi and you’ve seen everything; the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and Old Delhi and everything in between. The places on this list are near Delhi and are collectively known as the “Golden Triangle”. You’ll be able to see some of the most popular attractions in India like the Taj Mahal in Agra and the Hawa Mahal in Jaipur. Also on this list are spots that are off the beaten path like the place where the Beatles meditated!
1. Agra
Agra is by far one of the most touristy cities in India. Agra is highly accessible by bus, train, or taxi from Delhi. Travelling by train is the most popular method; it takes around 2 hours but the process of buying the ticket can be a hassle.
You’re probably here to see the Taj Mahal, and for good reason. Commissioned by Shah Jahan as a tomb for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, it is the most iconic symbol of love. The Taj Mahal is the pinnacle of Mughal architecture. It’s built almost entirely from marble and intricately layered with floral patterns. You’ve also probably heard of the crowding issue at the Taj Mahal but that doesn’t cheapen the beauty of the mausoleum at all. It’s a sight that pictures from brochures and textbooks can’t replicate; you really have to see it for yourself.
While you’re in Agra, you should also make a stop at Agra Fort. The Agra Fort that you see today was rebuilt by the third Mughal Emperor, Akbar. You’ll be able to get a good glimpse into the lives of the Mughal royal family at the fort. Probably the most noteworthy building in the fort, Jahangiri Mahal was the quarters for women belonging to the royal household. You’ll also find Jahangir’s Hauz, a large 5-meter tall tank used for bathing.
2. Jaipur
Another part of the Golden Triangle tourist circuit, Jaipur is commonly known as the “Pink City”. Jaipur earned the nickname when Maharaja Ram Singh painted the city pink as a sign of hospitality to welcome the Prince of Wales in 1876. Some of the colours on the city’s walls may have become more subdued today, but you’ll still be able to make out some of the pastel features. Some newer buildings are still painted pink as a nod to the past.
The Amber Fort or Amer Fort is typically listed as the top attraction in Jaipur. This enormous fort is known for its artistic design as well as its towering walls and gates that overlook the Maota Lake. Unlike the forts in the Golden Triangle, Amer Fort has a greater Hindu influence. The first courtyard contains the Shila Devi Temple where sacrifices to the deity used to be made. The entrance to the Maharaja’s private quarters is marked by a beautiful rendition of the Hindu God, Ganesha. By far the most unique part of the fort is the Hall of Mirrors. The walls in the hall are decorated with glass that glitters in a mystifying way.
Also worth noting are the City Palace and the Hawa Mahal. The City Palace was built by Maharaja Jai Singh II, Jaipur’s founder. The palace will give you a good sense of how the Maharajas lived, including a collection of what they wore! The Hawa Mahal is an extension of the City Palace, serving as the women’s chamber.
3. Haridwar
If you’ve always wanted to see the sacred Ganges river, Haridwar offers a chance for you to see the relationship that the locals have with the river. Fortunately, it's somewhat near Delhi. Hindus from across India flock to Haridwar to bathe and worship. Every evening, aarti is practised where a prayer is offered and small lanterns are floated down the river. The journey to Haridwar should take around 5 hours by train.
4. Rishikesh
Remember when the Beatles went through a psychedelic music phase? You have Rishikesh to thank for that. Since then, the town has been known as the World Capital of Yoga. Yoga centres are everywhere, attracting people who simply want to learn and students who seek to become qualified practitioners. If you’re down for something more extreme, white water rafting and bungee jumping is a popular activity at Rishikesh.
The town is about an hour’s tuk-tuk ride from Haridwar.
