The Golden Triangle Tourist Circuit, commonly known as the Golden Triangle, is one of those few places in India known for its heavy tourist footfall. Comprising of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, the circuit is also famous for its cultural significance. If you look through the eyes of an historian, it probably contains the entire history of Northern India. Declared as World Heritage Sites, these famous destinations are few things you absolutely cannot miss.
The Golden Triangle tourist circuit lies right in the heart of the country and covers three major tourist destinations viz., Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. All three of them are known for their deep rooted history and cultural vibrance. Filled with numerous iconic places, several of them have been declared as World Heritage Sites by the UNESCO. And perhaps, such an astonishing feat can’t be found anywhere in the world.
Reaching the Golden Triangle tourist circuit is not a difficult task at all, as numerous international and domestic flights connect the three cities from different parts of the world. Likewise, taking rail and road is highly convenient, as several major trains and highways pass through them. Guided tours of the Golden Triangle are also offered, which can be booked at any of the cities. Generally, Delhi is the seat for arrival and departure, so it’s better to make your bookings from there. If you are focusing on any particular city, then you’ll find hundreds of touring and lodging options in Jaipur and Agra as well. For a day or two, you can book Oyo rooms in Agra or Jaipur, which is convenient and offers great service.
Talking about the cultural significance, the Golden Triangle is marked with World Heritage Sites, which throws abundant light into Indian history and culture. Let’s take a look at them:
- Red Fort: Famously known as ‘Lal Quila’, this palace is a great symbol of Mughal architecture and aesthetic creativity. Standing on the banks of river Yamuna, this monolithic monument also hosts the hoisting of national flag on Indian Independence Day.
- Qutub Minar: Standing tall at 72.5m, the Qutub Minar is the next heritage destination to be visited. Built in the 12th century by Qutubuddin Aibak, the founder of Delhi Sultanate, this brick minaret is the tallest of its kind. There are several small monuments surrounding the Qutub Minar and together they form the Qutub Complex. The tower is said to be a huge symbol of Mughal power and shows architectural intelligence and beauty.
- Humayun’s Tomb: The last monument in Delhi’s array of World Heritage Sites, is the Humayun’s Tomb. The resting place of Mughal emperor Humayun was built in the 16th century and is a remarkable piece of aesthetic architecture and innovation. Surrounded by a beautiful garden, this tomb is decorated with marble stones and chaatris.
- Taj Mahal: Built by emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, this masterpiece in white marble took 16 years to complete. Also counted amongst the Seven Wonders of the World, the epic architecture of Taj Mahal is a great mix of Indian, Persian, Islamic and Mughal styles.
- Agra Fort: Lying on the banks of Yamuna river, this massive monument was built using red sandstone and shows an exemplary fusion of architectural designs adopted from Persian and Indian monuments.
- Fatehpur Sikri: Established by Emperor Akbar, this city of victory was built in the 16th century and contains several monuments and temples created with unique architectural designs. The entire city is filled with small palaces, mosques, army barracks, King’s courts and servant quarters.
- Jantar Mantar (Jaipur): The Jantar Mantar complex in Jaipur, built by King Jai Singh ll of Jaipur, was modelled after the one built by Mughals in Delhi. This tourist attraction in Jaipur is a huge collection of king’s architectural and astronomical instruments.
Being surrounded with beautiful monuments with historical importance, the Golden Triangle is a popular destination in India. People from the neighbouring cities keep flocking these destinations. Just take taxi from Delhi to Agra or a cab from Agra to Jaipur and don’t forget to explore these World Heritage Sites.
