Classic India
Coined as the ‘golden triangle’ for their extraordinary wealth of cultural and historical splendour, the cities of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur offer a rich colourful history and incredible sights. This itinerary is ideal for a first time visit to India!
Days 1 - 3: New Delhi
Arrive at Delhi airport and get a taxi to the neighbourhood of Paharganj where there are many affordable accommodations for backpackers. The next few days, explore the sights of New Delhi with a visit to the battlemented Red Fort built in the 16th Century. Visit the Jama Masjid, India’s oldest and largest mosque. See the Raj Ghat marble memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, marking the spot where India’s former political leader was cremated after his assassination. Marvel at the world’s tallest brick minaret at the Qutab Minar.
Day 4: The Taj Mahal
Travel 200km from Delhi to the city of Agra, home of the legendary Taj Mahal. Constructed entirely of white marble and dotted with semi-precious stones, the Taj Mahal has been described as ‘the most extravagant monument ever built for love’ built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife-Mumtaz Mahal, who died tragically during childbirth.
The entrance fee to the Taj Mahal consists of a 250 rupee Entry Tax (Archeological Society of India) and 500 rupees Toll Tax (Agra Development Authority). Opening times are between 6am and 7pm every day except Friday (when it’s closed for prayer). It’s well worth the effort to get up early and spend sunrise there!
Day 5: Fatehpur Sikri City
En route to Jaipur, stop at the ancient and well preserved former Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri city. This outstanding fortified city was the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1571 until 1585, when it was abandoned dramatically due to a lack of water. Explore the various temples, places of worships, pavilions, public areas and marvel at how life must have been for the inhabitants of this old city. Continue to the Pink City of Jaipur, capital of Rajasthan,
Days 6 - 7: Jaipur
At a distance of 260 kms from Delhi, Jaipur, also popularly known as the ‘pink city’ boasts cultural heritage from every corner. Your trip to Jaipur will be incomplete without a visit to the magnificent Amber Fort. Situated on a sandstone hilltop on the outskirts of the city and built in red sandstone and white marble, the Amber Fort represents a fine blend of architecture – its construction took over 100 years to complete!
The Jantar Mantar, is an observatory of astronomy built in 1728. At first glance, Jantar Mantar resembles a sculpture park, but each construction has a specific scientific purpose. Some measure the positions of stars, whilst others calculate eclipses, the lunar calendar and simply the time of day. Even today, most of the constructions remain accurate!
Hawa Mahal or the ‘Palace of Winds’ is the most striking monument in Jaipur. Though its name suggests, it’s not actually a palace. Actually, the Hawa Mahal is a sandstone screen with 593 finely screened windows, used as a veil by the royal women folk to watch the proceedings on the road below without being seen.
During your stay in Jaipur, be sure to explore the Johari Bazaar for a bargain where you can buy jootis (traditional curled shoes), Jaipur’s famous blue pottery, textiles and handicrafts.
Days 8 - 9: New Delhi
Return to Delhi and time to finish off a spot of sightseeing and try your hand at haggling for souvenirs at one of Delhi’s famous bazaars.
Don’t forget to take out your backpacker insurance as soon as you book your trip so that you can enjoy your trip to India.