India's Golden Triangle offers magical sights and places to stay
One of the most travelled and raved about tourist routes in India is the Golden Triangle, which takes in some of the most spectacular and magical destinations India has to offer. From the historic capital Delhi to Agra, the home of the Taj Mahal, and Rajasthan, one of the most colourful states in India. It's also a route that boasts some of India's most incredible hotels, palaces and places to stay.
Exploring Delhi
For many, the most convenient starting point of the Golden Triangle is Delhi, where you can immerse yourself in the the capital's history from the Mughal dynasties of the 16th Century in Old Delhi to the architecture of the British colonial era in New Delhi. Make sure to explore the Red Fort and Jama Mashid mosque, ride a rickshaw, drink Chai tea in a clay cup and smell out the incredible array of spices in the Old Delhi bazaar. Then head to Victoria Gate (the World Wars Memorial and famous Delhi landmark), and walk the length of the gardens to the President's palace and government ministries, designed by famed British architect, Edwin Lutyens.
If you’re looking to check in for some luxury alongside the cultural experiences on offer, The Leela Palace New Delhi is the ideal spot to stay. Nestled between the ambassadorial residences of New Delhi, it is a short chauffeur drive from the airport and a great point from which to explore the sights of two cities of Delhi. And with a picturesque rooftop pool (below), it's the ultimate spot to kick back, relax and take a cooling dip after a day immersed in bustling city life. A feature of the Leela Palace hotels, alongside luxe interiors and warm hospitality, are incredible dining experiences, so don't miss the chance to refuel at Jamavar, an authentic Indian restaurant. The black dahl and slow roasted lamb specialities were one of the culinary highlights of our entire trip.
Visiting The Taj Mahal
Next stop on the Golden Triangle is usually Agra, the city home of the famous Taj Mahal and a must-see on most visitor's India itinerary. Many people choose to hire a driver for the trip to navigate the route, we travelled with Pashmina Tours who provided and excellent and easy service. The train is also an exciting option to see Indian scenery roll by and to meet the country's interesting and hospitable people as you travel.
Once in Agra, the Taj Mahal is the main attraction, head at sunrise to avoid the crowds and watch this marble wonder change in the morning light from a soft pink glow at sunrise to pure alabaster white in the middle of the day. Later in the afternoon it takes on a golden hue. Evening tours by moonlight are available for a few days a month either side of the full moon (except in the month of Ramadan).
Places to stay within a short walking distance from the Taj Mahal with a view to the monument, include the Taj Convention Centre with a rooftop view, or the luxurious Oberoi Amarvilas where every room has a view. Also worth visiting while in the city is the Agra Fort, which looks down over the Yamuna River towards the Taj Mahal, and where you'll find ruby and emerald inlaid in the Fort walls.
Jaipur, The Pink City
The Golden Triangle routes next into Rajasthan and the city of Jaipur, known as the Pink City, thanks to the dusty pink hue of the city buildings. It’s a bustling city of palaces and forts, allowing for breathtaking views and many Instagramable opportunities [check out the Wind View Cafe opposite the Palace of The Winds for a classic Jaipur shot]. And the bazaars are a shopper's paradise, offering Indian style slippers, bags, jewellery, gems and the coloured fabrics Rajasthan is famous for. You can even live for a night like the Maharaja of Jaipur and actually stay in an apartment within The City Palace, available to book through Air BnB at Maharaja prices.
Or make for a scenic escape to the surrounding hills, where you'll find unique properties like The Leela Palace Jaipur, 17 kilometres outside the city walls and not far from the famed Amer fort. A great base to head off and see the sights, it's also a luxurious and serene sanctuary perfect for some downtime away from the bustle of the city. Designed in the style of a palace and hand painted in blue and silver it's a majestic sight to behold.
If you fancy being treated like tourist royalty, book into one of the Royal Villas in the grounds, complete with a day bed and plunge pool and your own personal butler to help make your stay as delightful as possible.
Not to be missed is an evening at the hotel's Mohan Mahal restaurant. A replica of a room in the Royal Palace at the nearby Amer Fort, frequented by Mughal Kings, the walls are adorned with 350,000 mirror mosaics (it took 6 years to recreate) and it is lit solely by candles. It’s a glimmering spectacle and backdrop for a night to remember, not just for the setting but for the four course Indian tasting extravaganza.
Udaipur: The city on the lake
Just beyond the Golden Triangle, a next stop for many visitors that is well worth the trip is Udaipur, the city on the lake with the infamous floating Palace. Arrive by boat at the The Leela Palace Udaipur on the shores of Lake Pichola for an unforgettable view of this beautiful hotel and then back out to the lake and the royal floating palaces beyond.
And why stop there, there’s plenty more to explore in Rajasthan from Jodphur, known as the blue city or Jaisalmer the desert city and wildlife reserves such as Ranthambore, where you can safari in the hope of seeing a Tiger in their natural habitat.
The best time to visit?
The best time to travel differs for different parts of India, but generally October to March is considered peak season before the intense heat and rains arrive. For help planning your route, pick up a copy of The Lonely Planet India for inspiration on places to visit and things to see, but where ever you head, a warm welcome and some Indian magic awaits.
GLAMOUR's Deputy Editor, Camilla Kay, stayed courtesy of the award-winning Leela Palace Hotels, with rooms starting from £140 per night.
**For great deals on your next flight or package deal, book with Virgin Atlantic. **
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