India’s golden triangle is a tourist circuit which connects the national capital Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. The Golden Triangle is so called because of the triangular shape formed by the locations of New Delhi, Agra and Rajasthan on a map. The trips usually start in Delhi moving south to the site of Taj Mahal at Agra, then west, to the desert landscapes of Rajasthan. It is normally possible to do the trip by coach or private journey through most tour operators. The Golden Triangle is now a well traveled route providing a good spectrum of the country’s different landscapes. The circuit is about 720 km by road. Each leg is about 4 to 6 hours of drive. The Shatabdi express train also connects Delhi with Agra and Jaipur.
The three cities of the Golden Triangle are unique in their own way. Delhi, the capital city, is more sophisticated and modern, with a cosmopolitan culture, and is one of the busiest cities in India. The city of Agra, on the other hand, reflects the grandeur of the Mughal Empire, showcasing their rich architectural preference and styles. Jaipur is among the most dazzling and colorful cities that speaks of the mighty Rajputs and their opulent lifestyles, culture and heritage.
Some of the major attractions in Delhi are Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutab Minar, Chandni Chowk, Lodhi Gardens, Lotus Temple, India Gate, Gandhi Smriti and the Garden of Five Senses.
Agra is famous for the Taj Mahal, which is the Seventh Wonder of the World. It is the main attraction of the circuit tour. The Taj Mahal is a mausoleum built by Emperor Shah Jahan of the Mughal Dynasty, in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal.
Jaipur, famously known as the Pink City, boasts of being a major tourist destination with attractions such as City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Nahargarh Fort, Amber Fort and Palace, Jaigarh Fort, Jantar Mantar, Government Central (Albert Hall) Museum, Dera Amer Elephant Safari and Galta Monkey Temple.
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