David's Thrillophilia Trip Review of India’s Golden Triangle
Planning our family vacation in India was a journey in itself.
It started with a casual conversation we were having during dinner, about our favorite travel destinations. That was when all of us started to think about our past adventures and where we could go next. India was the destination that came to our mind at once, given its rich culture, heritage, and diverse landscapes.
Intrigued by the thought of exploring the Taj Mahal and the busy streets of Jaipur, we began researching travel blogs online. From historical forts, and lush gardens, to scenic lakes - each city fueled our excitement for visiting India.
Being a huge history and culture enthusiast myself, I thought of creating an itinerary that included tours around the most popular historical and religious sites. With excitement building up and plans taking shape, we finally confirmed our travel dates, eagerly waiting for the amazing experiences that awaited us in India.
Where History Meets Modern Life
We began our first sightseeing tour in Delhi - a city known for its historical landmarks and modern infrastructure.
Our first stop was Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, which was a peaceful religious site in the middle of urban chaos. Its golden dome shined under the sun, and the atmosphere inside offered us a sense of peace that we hadn't felt before. We even got the chance to see a 'Langar', where devotees participate in cooking and serving food to the people who visit the gurdwara.
Later, we also visited the stunning Jama Masjid, which stood in a vast courtyard. I was particularly impressed by the detailed architecture, which stood as a testament to Mughal artistry. My wife was drawn to the lively ambiance around the mosque, where the air carried the tempting aroma of street food.
As we continued our city tour, we next explored the Red Fort. It was like stepping back in time, to an age where it used to be the residence of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.
Our tour guide held great knowledge about the region and shared several stories about the historic events related to the city. Our kids were fascinated by the red sandstone walls and had a great time wandering through the expansive gardens of the fort.
Visiting the Lotus Temple was a unique experience, as I couldn't believe how the same city could house both historical and modern wonders. It showcased marvelous architecture and lush green gardens where we enjoyed a relaxing walk. I had heard a lot of good things about Delhi before - but visiting it in person was an experience like no other.
From Majestic Taj to Thrilling Safaris
Visiting the Taj Mahal was an experience that none of us will ever forget.
The white marble glowing in the sunlight, and the lush green gardens - it was a sight that felt surreal. We stood in front of an architectural marvel that carried a story of love that dated back centuries.
Our guide told us that a Mughal Emperor got it built for his beloved wife. We were awestruck by its charm and the history that it showcased. Taking in the ambiance, we also walked across its lush green gardens, where the scent of several flowers filled the air.
India impressed us with its diversity; one moment we were admiring the Taj Mahal and the next, we were exploring the wilderness of Ranthambore National Park.
As we navigated the rough terrain of the national park, we felt the anticipation of spotting a majestic tiger. While we had a great time admiring several deer and birds, spotting a tiger - it was something out of the world.
Watching the big cat in its natural habitat was a truly magical experience. Both of my boys were spellbound and looked at the tiger moving through the tall grass in pure amazement. The wildlife safari increased our love for India’s diverse landscapes and the fascinating wildlife that flourishes within them.
Forts, Lakes, and Lasting Memories
We particularly enjoyed the sightseeing tours in Rajasthan as it was filled with history and culture at every turn.
In Jaipur, the Pink City, our first stop during the city tour was Amer Fort. We found the 400-year-old fort’s grand architecture to be very impressive. It reflected the rich culture and heritage of the times when Rajput Emperors used to reside in such forts. As we explored its courtyards and halls, I felt deeply connected to the tales of valor that our tour guide narrated.
Jodhpur, also known as the Blue City, was another town that we covered during our trip. Just when we thought there couldn't be anything that could match the majesty of the Amer Fort - we came across Mehrangarh Fort.
Over there, we got an opportunity to explore an expansive collection of historical artifacts and artworks that spoke volumes about the region's history. Our driver also took us for a walk along the narrow streets of the old city, where we saw the blue-painted houses that gave Jodhpur its unique nickname.
But that wasn't all - because we were yet to explore the historical wonders of Udaipur, the City of Lakes. We enjoyed a boat ride in the peaceful waters of Lake Pichola around the sunset hours. The reflection of City Palace on the Lake, gentle winds, and scenic views of the sunset - Rajasthan just didn't stop wooing us with its charm.
From ancient forts to scenic lakes, the region blew our minds with its vibrant culture and rich heritage. Each city that we explored added more depth to our newfound love for India, leaving us with a longing to return.
Overall, our journey through the Golden Triangle of India was a lot more than sightseeing; it was a unique blend of experiences that deepened our appreciation for the wonders of this incredible nation.
Read More: Thrillophilia Golden Triangle Reviews