Travel Category

The incredible India is not just one country but a country of million experiences. The land of ancient history, colorful heritage and even more vibrant culture is a traveller’s treasure box. Such is the vastness and diversity of the land that is pretty much impossible to explore and experience it all at one India tour. If India’s best could be put in a nutshell, then it is the brief and carefully-planned Golden Triangle Tour.

In north India, the three cities of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, 200-250 kms apart, become the three points of the Golden Triangle. These cities are home to great empires, fascinating chapters of history, colorful heritage, magnificent architecture including UNESCO World Heritage Sites, bustling bazaars, enriching experiences and more. This is an ultimate experience of India, especially if you have never visited before, this is the ideal start.

The Glorious History & Heritage

Golden Triangle tour’s itinerary comprises of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur and each of these cities are a treasure of glorious history & heritage.

The ‘City of Cities’ Delhi - To start with Delhi, the capital city of India is not one city but a city of eight cities. The oldest city of Delhi, Indraprastha dates back to 3000 years back mentioned in the epic Mahabharata while the name Old Delhi is given to the city of Mughals when they made Delhi their capital and the newest Delhi is planned during the British Raj by the architect Lutyens. Each of these settlements is a testimony of glorious history and heritage.

Of note in Delhi is the impressive architecture and craftsmanship that mark each of the different eras and harmoniously coexist with the city matching pace with the modern times. The UNESCO World heritage sites in Delhi- Red Fort, Qutub Minar Complex and Humayun’s Tomb are must visit. Other impressive attractions are- Jama Masjid and Chandni Chowk, India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Raj Ghat, Lodhi Garden, Lotus Temple, Akshardham Temple, etc.

‘Gem of the Mughal Era’ Agra - Moving on to Agra, the city of Taj; it is a city of Mughal splendor. The former capital of the Mughal Empire, the city is well-known for the beautiful Taj Mahal, a wonder of the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The red-sandstone Agra Fort is another testament of the regal history. Other popular specimens of heritage are Itmad-ul-daulah ‘Baby Taj’, and Akbar’s Tomb. The marvelous Fatehpur Sikri is also a must-visit heritage site, on the outskirts of Agra. Once a glorious Mughal city, the city was abandoned and left in ruin.

‘Pride of the Rajputana’ Jaipur – Last stop of the Golden Triangle, Jaipur is a glorious city of Rajputana. Nicknamed as Pink City, the capital city of Rajasthan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Walled city of Jaipur dates back to the 17th century, where the entire city was built after proper planning and following of Vastu Shastra. Magnificent forts, royal palaces, incredible architecture are specimens of the royal heritage. Amer Fort and Jantar Mantar are inscribed among UNESCO World Heritage sites, while other masterpieces of architecture are Hawa Mahal-the Palace of Winds, the City Palace, Jal Mahal, Albert Hall Museum and more.

Rich culture

Culture is the legacy of the people and the Golden Triangle tour presents the culture of the Rajputs, Mughals and the multi-cultural Delhi. Festivals highlight the colorful culture and if you would like a brief introduction to the festivities the tour circuit offers the ideal opportunity.

Mouthwatering Tastes

Be it Delhi, Agra or Jaipur, each of these cities offers an opportunity to savor mouthwatering tastes. Delhi is well-known both for street food as well as luxury dining. Old Delhi is famous for its mouthwatering parathas, kachoris and other snacks while the top-notch hotels offer a fine dining experience. Agra specialized in Mughali cuisines and especially the sweet ‘petha’. Jaipur presents the ultimate Rajasthani cuisine with a delicious dishes including the ‘dal-bhati-churma’ and ‘laal maas’.

Royal Hospitality

Golden Triangle tours is crafted in a way that it captures the best of India and for that is also capture the experience of the royal hospitality of India. Luxury is a way of life for the guests. Luxury properties, heritage hotels transformed from royal palaces and the international resorts serve guests with a memorable stay. While the lodgings are heavenly, the services are personalized for the guests to feel right at home and enjoy Indian rituals and customs.

Extending your trip

Track tigers in Ranthambhore or spot birds in Bharatpur

The Ranthambhore National Park was once a hunting ground for the maharajas and now protects a growing tiger population. Easy to get to by road, the park is known for incredible tiger sightings as well as other wildlife, including blackbucks and rare leopards. Embark on game drives in the mornings and evenings to increase your chances of seeing a tiger or a group of them.

Bharatpur is the home to Keoladeo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to many colorful species of birds including migratory birds that seek refuge in the winters.

A Royal Rajasthan Tour

The Golden Triangle slots in to a longer tour of Rajasthan that can include the ‘City of Lakes’ Udaipur or the ‘Blue City’ Jodhpur or the ‘Golden City’ Jaisalmer. Each of these royal cities further enhance the thrill of exploring India.

Bask in the holy bliss of Varanasi

The ancient city of Varanasi is the perfect getaway with the holy River Ganga, sacred river Ghats, Ganga Aarti, temples and more.

Off to the beaches

Goa and Kerala offer a refreshing beach experience. Beaches, backwaters, Ayurveda massages, seafood, watersports and leisure time, this puts a very invigorating end to your India tour.

Best time to visit India’s Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle Tour is best suited between the months from October to April. The winter season in India is a pleasant time to go sightseeing, relish the Indian spicy food and have some incredible experiences.

India’s cultural heritage is matchless. Cultural Heritage of India that does not limit itself to monuments, collections of objects or a particular places; it also includes traditions that have been passed through generations as a way of life. The Intangible Cultural Heritage of India includes social practices, festivals, rituals, oral traditions, knowledge, performing arts, and particular skills to produce traditional crafts. In India, in its centuries of existence, vast cultural diversity, heritage and population, intangible cultural heritage is found in every nook and very corner of the country.

In changing times, the cultural heritage is being lost and to preserve this vast wealth, UNESCO lists these cultural practices at Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. For the tarveles exploring India, the cultural heritage is an incredible experience that makes you fall in love with the colourful kaleipdoscpe of the country.

India has a total of 13 such representative ones in the list:

1. Yoga

Yoga is an ancient art of health and wellness. It is a holistic knowledge of unifying the mind with body and soul. It is a traditional approach of spiritual, mental and physical well-being taught by the ascetics (rishis) who lead a life of discipline. Yoga comprises a series of poses, meditation, controlled breathing, word chanting, etc. The intangible cultural heritage is one of the reasons to visit India.

Where to go in India to learn about Yoga?

Rishikesh is the Yoga capital of the world and the must-visit place for yoga in India. Bangalore, Kerala, Goa and are the popular places.

2. Kumbh Mela

The holy gathering of Kumbh Mela is one of the largest human congregations in the world. The festival of the ‘sacred pitcher’ is a gathering where the pilgrims bathe or take dip in the holy rivers of India. As old as Indian civilization if not more, the festival is organized once in 12 years in four pilgrimage places on the banks of sacred rivers in Haridwar (River Ganga), Ujjain (River Kshipra), Nashik (River Narmada) and Prayagraj, formerly Allahabad (Triveni Sangam -confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati).

Where to go in India to learn about Kumbh Mela?

Haridwar, Allahabad, Nashik and Ujjain are the four sacred places where the Kumbh Mela is organized.

3. Kalbelia

Kalbelia is a folk dance form of Rajasthan that is a part of the culture of the nomadic community of the deserts of Rajasthan. The seductive dance form by the vibrantly attired women is performed on the melodies of ‘Khanjari’ percussion instrument and the ‘Poongi’, a woodwind instrument. The Kalbelia folk performances are based upon the myths and tales of the desert. The intangible cultural heritage is one of the best treasures of India.

Where to go in India to learn about Kalbelia?

The desert dunes of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan or at the major festivals of the state including Pushkar Mela, Bikaner Camel Festival, Jaisalmer Desert Festival, etc.

4. Koodiyattam

Koodiyattam is an ancient Sanskrit theatrical tradition practiced in Kerala. The beautiful Kerala is an ancient land of history, heritage and culture. Fondly named “God’s Own Country’ the land is a paradise and the traditions are in reverence of the deities close to nature. Traditionally performed in theatres called as Kuttampalams located in the Hindu temples, the theatrical production is a treasured cultural heritage of Kerala.

Where to go in India to learn about Koodiyattam?

Cultural centers in Kerala, especially Kochi keeps the tradition alive. The many luxury resorts of Kerala also recreate for its guests.

5. Vedic Chanting

India’s vedic era was the base of civilization. The sacred texts of veds of the time are the holy texts of Indian culture. The tradition of Vedic chanting involves chanting during sacred rituals and recited daily by the Vedic communities known not only for the rich content of its oral literature but also for the ingenious techniques employed by the Brahmin priests.

Where to go in India to learn about Vedic chanting?

This experience is not very hard as the many temples all over India practice the tradition.

6. Ramlila

A theatrical performance of Ramayana, the Ramlila is performed across North India during the festival of Dussehra. What makes this special is the devotion for the characters of Ramayana, the dialogues and the lessons of life. It is a treasured cultural heritage of India.

Where to go in India to learn about Ramlila?

Vrindavan, Varanasi, Delhi and Ramnagar are the most popular places.

7. Ramman

Another religious festival of India that finds its mention among the elite list of cultural heritage of humanity in India is Ramman. Hailing from the mountains of Uttarakhand, the festivities involve one particular village where all the residents have specific roles.

Where to go in India to learn about Ramman?

The villages of Saloor and Dungra in Uttarakhand are the exclusive places to experience the festival.

8. Mudiyett

From the God’s Own Country, Kerala, Mudiyett is a ritual dance drama based on a mythological tale of the battle between Darika, the demon and Goddess Kali. The vibrant attire, the magnificent masks and the traditions make it a rare gem of Indian cultural heritage.

Where to go in India to learn about Mudiyett?

Cultural centers in Kerala, especially Kochi keeps the tradition alive. The many luxury resorts of Kerala also recreate for its guests.

9. Chhau Dance

Chhau Dance is a semi-classical form of tribal dance, combining martial arts, storytelling, martial arts, mock combat, acrobatics, and athletics and story-telling based in eastern India. Based on episodes from epics including the Mahabharata and Ramayana, local folklore and abstract themes, the dance form is a colorful cultural heritage. The incredible masks used in Chhau are worth admiring as are the vibrant attires, musical instruments and graceful dance is an experience to cherish.

Where to go in India to learn about Chhau Dance?

The origin of Chhau Dance is East India, in the cities of Kolkata, Purulia, Bhubaneswar, etc.

10. Buddhist Chanting

Buddhist chanting is a part of the prayers of the Buddhist lamas (priests) in the Ladakh region. There are several forms of chanting and what makes it special is the serenity it grants to the chanters and one who even listen to the chants. Accompanied with musical instruments, these chants are a melody that soothes the body, mind and soul.

Where to go in India to learn about Buddhist Chanting?

Monasteries in Ladakh keep the tradition alive.

11. Sankirtana

Hailing from the North East India, Sankirtana is a set of arts performed to mark religious occasions and various stages in the life of the Vaishnava people of the Manipur plains.

12. Traditional brass and copper craft of utensil making

The craft of the Thatheras of Jandiala Guru constitutes the traditional technique of manufacturing brass and copper utensils in Punjab.

13. Nawrouz

The Persian New year celebrated worldwide. It involves street performances of music and dance, public rituals involving water and fire, traditional sports and the making of handicrafts.

There is a famous saying “the thing about books is they let you travel without moving your feet” and this is one of the best ways to travel when you are unable to do so. A way to satiate your travel lust till you can actually travel to India, travel books make you travel to places, uncover the deepest of secrets and enrich you with incredible experiences. India is a land of infinite travel experiences and the travel books capture the charms of the land that ignites curiosity and deepen your love for India.

If you are a voracious reader and lived life through the books or just starting with reading, the travel books about India will take you to a world of wonders, inspire you, and in fact change you forever.

Let’s run down some of the best travel books about India that are a must read for the love of the country.

1. City of Djinns: A Year in Delhi - William Dalrymple

The City of Djinns is written with much love by William Dalrymple who has been enamored by India and especially the capital city, Delhi. The book narrates a curious tale of the centuries-long history of the eight cities of Delhi along with the legend of the djinn, the spirit that assures the restoration of the city like a phoenix, no matter the times it has been destroyed.

2. Chasing the Monsoon - Alexander Frater

As the name suggests the travelogue by Alexander Farter is all about Chasing the Monsoon in India and thereby exploring this vast and diverse land in all its glory. The beautiful descriptions of flooded paddy fields to rain-washed monuments, the blissful season of monsoons is lovingly captured in all its moods, soothing the reader and te traveller.

3. No Full Stops in India – Mark Tully

A must read for travellers in love with India, the book beautifully capture the love story between this BBC correspondent and India. The half-century long love affair with India is fondly captured with an account of travels through the country and his reflections. The everyday stories make you fall in love with India and experience affectionate feelings for the country.

4. Q&A – Vikas Swarup

A thought-provoking tale of the diversity of India, this novel is the script of multiple Oscar-winning movie Slumdog Millionaire. The story speaks about the contrasts which exist in the urban landscape of metropolitan India. The of various cultures, various people and all their stories and the hope that make India a true treasure to explore.

5. A Passage to India – E.M Forster

A must read for the tarvellers in love with India, a Passage to India is one of the 100 great works of 20th century English literature by the Modern Library and is considered to be one of the most beautiful accounts describing pre-Independence India. The story is set against the backdrop of the British Raj and the Indian independence movement in the 1920s. It paints the colourful and charming painting of vast and diverse India.

6. Butter Chicken in Ludhiana: Travels in Small Town India ­– Pankaj Mishra

A light-hearted book that narrates the tale of travelling in India, Butter Chicken in Ludhiana: Travels in Small Town India is a fascinating read. The name of the book is taken from one of India’s most favorite meal for non-vegetarians- the savory Butter Chicken. The tale is about the author’s encounters with the charming people of India and the fascinating culture while exploring places such as Mandi, Pushkar, Kottayam, Murshidabad, and extensive travel through small towns in India.

7. Wanderings in India and Other Sketches of Life in Hindostan – John Lang

A fascinating travelogue for travellers who are want to explore India or discover the country in a new light, the Wanderings in India and Other Sketches of Life in Hindostan is a must-read. The fantastic narrative of India during the colonial times and the many lifestyle habits of the British, this book helps travelers explore the colonial architecture of India in its various hill stations and cities now.

8. Nine Lives: In Search of the Sacred in Modern India – William Dalrymple

An Indian travelogue, the Nine Lives: In Search of the Sacred in Modern India is another masterpiece by William Dalrymple. The novel captures an experience of the spirituality of this diverse land through the narration of the lives of nine Indians from different religious backgrounds and the uniqueness that each exudes. This is a must-read for the ones who are in awe of the magical world of India.

9. Maximum City: Bombay Lost and Found – Suketu Mehta

This Pulitzer Prize finalist, Maximum City is a must read for travellers curious about India or in deep love with India. The chronicle of India’s most vibrant metropolis, Mumbai, the novel captures the extremities of life, the colourful characters within the ‘the biggest, fastest, richest city in India’ and the unity and charms within the vast diversity.

10. All Roads Lead to Ganga – Ruskin Bond

A lovely piece of writing by the classic novelist Ruskin Bond, this is also a must read. It is a masterfully-crafted painting of the Himalayan foothills of Uttarakhand and the author who has lovingly made his home here. It reads like a love letter to the Indian countryside and especially the nature of Dehradun, Mussoorie, and the Char Dham pilgrimage routes to the source of the Ganga (Ganges) River.

While the list of travel books that deepens the love for India is vast, we specifically chose the top ten must reads.

Monuments are the heart and soul of India's history. The Taj Mahal is but of course the most recognized monument in India, but there are also many more. India has 38 UNESCO World Heritage Site to its name; many among them are incredible specimens of architecture, heritage and culture. So, when you are planning your India tour packages, plan a visit to the most amazing heritage sites in India.

Before going through the list of the must-visit heritage sites in India, a brief must be given about the Taj Mahal in Agra the most popular of architectural wonders in India. The Taj Mahal is one of the wonders of the world that is also the most-photgraphed sites in India.

Beyond the Taj Mahal, take a look at the top heritage sites in India that must be on your bucketlist.

        1. Temples at Khajuraho

The architectural masterpiece of The Khajuraho Group of Monuments is one of the treasures of heritage of India. The group of Hindu and Jain Temples in Central India are well known for erotic figures and sculptures. The stone carvings capture sensuality in a very beautiful way. Both human as well as animal forms in erotic poses are intriguing. Dating back to the years between 950 to 1050 CE, the temples were built in the reign of the Chandela dynasty. The architectural finesse is extraordinary and worth exploring and are enlisted among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India.

        2. Forts of Rajasthan

The mighty forts of Rajasthan are undoubtedly some of the most prized sites of Indian heritage. The Hill Forts of Rajasthan are the epitome of incredible architecture and defensive strategy. Witness to some of the most interesting episodes of history, some of the hill forts are inscribed as UNESCO World heritage Sites. The six forts include Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh, Ranthambore Fort, Gagron Fort, Amber Fort, and Jaisalmer Fort, each a masterpiece of grandeur, planning and intriguing to explore.

        3. Humayun’s Tomb

The inspiration behind Taj Mahal, Humayun’s Tomb is an architectural wonder. The first of its kind, the garden mausoleum is a grand marvel of the Mughal architectural style.  Nestled in the lush greenery of Central Delhi, the garden tomb is pictorial setting inspired by the description of paradise in the Holy Quran. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is magnificent to awe at.

        4. Ajanta-Ellora Caves

The Ajanta and Ellora Caves are two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. The caves are well known for their Indian-rock cut architecture. A treasured amalgam of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain religious mythology, these caves are testimony of the tolerance which was extended towards different faiths and beliefs in Ancient Indian History.

Ajanta Caves date back around the 2nd- 6th century CE and comprise of the finest masterpieces of 31 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments, paintings, and sculptures. Ellora has about 34 rock-cut temples and caves which can be dated to about 600 to 1000 AD.

        5. Qutub Minar

A brick minaret might not sound interesting but when it comes to Qutub Minar, it is definitely awe-inspiring. Towering at 73m in height, the Qutub Minar was built in the owner of a Sufi Saint, highly patronised by Qutub-ud-din Aibak, the ruler of the Slave Dynasty in the early 12th century. In the ruins are also several ancient monuments like one of the first mosques in India.

        6. Ruins of Hampi

One of the most fascinating heritage sites in India, the ruins of Hampi deserve as much as attention as the Taj Mahal. Once the pride of the prosperous kingdom of Vijayanagara, now the ruins are marvelous specimens of Dravidian art and architecture date back to the 16-17th centuries. The open-air museum is displays finest of artistic craftsmanship. Hampi stands as the last remains of one of the mightiest empires of South India.

        7. Fatehpur Sikri

A city of heritage sites, Fatehpur SIkri is worthy of its status among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. On the outskirts of Agra, the city was a capital of the Mughal Empire for a decade before being abandoned. Known as the 'City of Victory', the walled city is full of marvelous Mughal buildings and incredible architecture. Starting from its mighty entry gate ‘Buland Darwaza’ to the many palaces, tombs and gardens, the city is a testimony of wonderful marvels. Though abandoned for centuries, the city still retains its bygone charm.

An absolute paradise on earth, Darjeeling is one the most sought-after destination of North East India. The beautiful hill station is a mix of splendid mountains of the Himalayas draped in snow, alluring tea gardens, colonial architecture, ancient monasteries, enjoyable ride on the toy train, and other cherished experiences

Courtesy to the magnificent mountain backdrop, Darjeeling has earned a name as the “Queen of the Himalayas”.  What more is the hill town is perfect for vacations with family, a romantic honeymoon; a holiday to discover the unexplored North East, or anything you wish, Darjeeling fits all requirements. In fact is Darjeeling and Sikkim tours are the perfect getaway in North East India.

Here’s our checklist of the best of Darjeeling Tours (North India Tour Packages)  

Tiger Hill: The sunrise point

The outstanding panoramic view of the Himalayas, especially the mighty Mt. Kanchenjunga, the Tiger Hill stands at an astonishing height of 2,500 meters. The tourist puller showcases the best view at sunrise. The view of the sun rising over the Kangchenjunga is spectacular and something to cherish throughout the lifetime. The best time for the incredible views from the Tiger Hill is from mid October to mid January.

Ghoom Monastery: Darjeeling’s oldest Tibetan Monastery

A scenic tourist attraction, the Ghoom Monastery is one of the must-visit places of Darjeeling. A holy shrine of Buddhists built in 1875; it is one of the popular monasteries in North East India. Home of a 15-ft high statue of ‘Maitreya Buddha’ the monastery complex has many treasures of the goodness of religious bells, intricately decorated thangkas, drums and more. Walk through the holy shrine and feel the serenity, interact with prayerful monks, and participate in Buddhist rituals.

Japanese Peace Pagoda: A serene farewell

Another pilgrimage site for Buddhists, the Japanese Peace Pagoda was built atop a hill overlooking the mountains in 1970. The white marble shrine is an icon of peace and harmony. According to the Buddhist Lotus Sutra the structure has the four avatars of Lord Buddha. Mystical music of drums, chants of prayers and the serenity imparts all visitors to new heights to divinity.

Happy Valley Tea Garden: Oldest tea estate of Darjeeling

The beautiful tea gardens of Darjeeling are a unique beauty. Darjeeling tea finds mention among the elite collection of a tea connoisseur. Valleys and rolling hills of the town are covered in a layer of budding tea gardens.

Walk amid the lush estates, watch the workers pluck fresh leaves to brew and there are also options to learn the entire process of tea-making. Darjeeling’s Happy Valley Tea Garden is worth exploring. Stretching across 437 acres area, this is the oldest tea estate of Darjeeling and a popular tourist attraction.

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: ‘Aim to climb from peak to peak’

The mighty mountains of Himalayas always capture the attention. Be it adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers or a holiday seeker, mountains are always inspiring, The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute allows to capture the mighty heights. Founded in 1954 in the memory of Tenzing Norgay who was the first to climb the Everest, the mountaineering institute helps you aim to climb from peak to peak. The instituer comprise of a tall climbing wall for training purpose, museum, souvenir shop, eatery and an auditorium, which features movies, lectures, and workshops on mountaineering.

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR): A joyride with the Toy-train

Inscribed with World Heritage Status by UNESCO, the Darjeeling Toy train is not just an icon of incredible engineering but also a marvelous ride. The train starts from the plains and rises to 2050 meters above sea level. The toy train passes through some of most beautiful views of the mountains, lush jungles, sheer drops and amazing bridges and more. A trip of the Darjeeling Toy Train is one of the best experiences of tours in India and not just the breathtaking North East India.

Batasia Loop: Darjeeling’s spiral railway

Along with the Darjeeling Toy Train, the Batasia Loop is one of the must-visit attractions of the hill station. Spread across an area of 50,000 square feet, the railway track assists the Toy Train to journey around a circular loop that ultimately takes you to the mighty heights of Darjeeling. Besides its beauty, the site is an engineering marvel that makes it possible for the train to get to the heights.

With lush gardens, eateries and incredible vistas of the panorama, Batasia Loop is an amazing site to soak in the pleasures of Darjeeling.

The Mall: A leisure stroll

To truly experience Darjeeling, the Mall Road is the place to not miss out. Located in the heart of the town, the lane is full of markets and the best eateries. Savor the best of Nepali, Tibetan, and other cuisines. Shop for handicrafts, carpets, metal figurines, shawls and other local wares at the many stores on the Mall road.

Darjeeling tours are an experience of a lifetime. To make it all the more special, stay at the best hotels of the hill station. Choose to stay at the Glenburn Tea Estate to experience the bliss of tea gardens. For the colonial feel, there are many other choices. The Elgin Hotel is a 120-year-old residence, reminiscent of the days of the British Raj. Windamere Hotel is one of the three Jewels of the Raj.

Trekking in Darjeeling is one of the best adventures to try. Sikkim tours is also a wonderful addition with Darjeeling.