Indian Adventure
I had the wonderful opportunity of traveling to India’s Golden Triangle with Cox&Kings through Jodhpur and Udaipur.
The Journey
I flew with British Airways, departing from London Heathrow for just under a nine-hour journey to India. The flight was comfortable and went by quickly, thanks to the excellent in-flight entertainment, which included a variety of movies, playlists, and games to keep me engaged. The food served was also good, making the overall travel experience enjoyable.
Top Tip
See the Taj Mahal at sunrise
Delhi
A mix of wide, tree-lined avenues and the old town’s maze of tiny alleyways, Delhi’s streets are a vibrant blend of cars, mopeds, noise, market stalls, people, cows, and more traffic. We visited the famous Jama Masjid Mosque, the royal mosque built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1656. It’s one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world, with a main prayer hall that can hold more than 20,000 worshippers—it’s not to be missed.
Close by, in the heart of Old Delhi, is the boutique heritage hotel and restaurant Haveli Dharampura. The chef prepares a special menu based on the street food of Delhi. Afterward, head up to the roof and try some kite flying! From there, you’ll get the best view of Delhi, with several kites hovering over the rooftops.
Jaipur the pink city
This is an early start, but it’s worth it. Built by Shah Jahan over 17 years, starting in 1632, in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz, the Taj Mahal is the ultimate monument to love. As it comes into view, it’s utterly breathtaking. You no longer need to remove your shoes—later visitors can now use shoe covers!
TIP: The queues for security checks can be long, so if possible, avoid bringing a bag. Just take water and your camera, and you’ll pass through quickly. Sunrise and sunset are the best times to visit, as the crowds are much smaller.
Afterwards, visit Agra Fort (the Red Fort), which is equally impressive. This royal residence, with rubies and emeralds inlaid into marble and many semi-precious stones, also served as a military fort.
Jodhpur & Udaipur
Firstly, Jodhpur is amazing, and there’s no better place to understand why it’s called the Blue City than from Mehrangarh Fort. Spanning 5 kilometers, it’s one of the most impressive and formidable structures in all of India.
Next, we journeyed to Udaipur, known as the Venice of India. Set on a series of lakes, white marble palaces rise along the water’s edge. The City Palace, perched atop a hill overlooking the lakes, is a stunning blend of art and artifacts that offer insight into the opulent lifestyles of the maharajas.
Accommodation
The Imperial Hotel 5*
The hotel is located in Delhi. A stalwart in India’s landscape The Imperial Hotel has old world charm written al over it, the rooms are impressive large with lots of character and luxury.
ITC Mughal
In Agra the hotel is in close proximity to the Taj Mahal. This luxury resort offers 233 opulent rooms and suites, a spa, signature cuisine offerings and a range of elaborate banqueting facilities. It recreates a paradise for the contemporary Mogul – exemplifying the splendour and perfection that was the hallmark of the Mughal Dynasty.
ITC Rajputana
Inspired by the imposing architecture of Rajasthan’s traditional havelis and located in the heart of the city, ITC Rajputana invites its guests to immerse in the romance and majesty of the royal era. The elegant red brick exterior encompasses a central atrium around which the various levels rise gracefully. Long corridors, secluded courtyards and the tinkle of fountains recall times long past. Infused with this style is the modern uncluttered look and feel – a combination that makes the hotel a truly distinguished host in Jaipur.
Final Thoughts
This is my 3rd trip to India, returning I’d forgotten how infectious India can be. From the people smiling and waving at us, friendly and curious, the food all delicious, the sites most of all, were breath taking. I was so glad to have seen the forts and the palaces i don’t think I stopped smiling the whole time I was away, nothing quite prepares you for the site of the Taj Mahal, I still get goosebumps!
Jackie Wall
