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Masses of monuments

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Abu Dhabi Week explores the majesty of India’s marvels

Visiting India, you will be taken on a historical escapade; learning of the British rule, the great emperors of the time and the architecture of the eras.

The initial shock on landing in India is the crowds – the great masses of people that are everywhere- it shouldn’t be a surprise given the population is over 1.2 billion, but nothing can prepare you for it.

The Golden Triangle is one of the roads most travelled in India, famous for its monuments and shopping as well as the historical significance of landmarks along the way.

It is named after the shape of the route, the Golden Triangle joins the three tourist attracting towns; Delhi, Agra and Jaipur at around 700km in perimeter.

masses02Delhi

The first monument on the trip is the Red Fort in Delhi; home to Emperors of the Mughali empires. Audio tours are available for a small cost and give great history of the palatial grounds. This is a great insight into the visions and tastes of 17th Century Mughal emperor Shar Jahan, who also built the Taj Mahal.

Laxminarayan Temple in New Delhi is one of the largest and most beautiful temples in India; it is free to enter and provides a small haven of peace in the busy metropolis. The temple spreads across 7.5 acres, with a large courtyard behind it. The temple is a whirl of colour and sacredness, and offers some education on the Hindi religion.

masses03Agra

The first stop out of Delhi is Agra, home to the Taj Mahal. This monument was built by Shah Jahan for his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. More than 15,000 people visit this architectural feat every day to admire the famous white marble mausoleum.

Photos, words, videos, nothing will do this awe-striking location justice compared being in the grounds, viewing this wonder in person.

Opposite the Taj Mahal is the Agra Fort, where Shah Jahal was imprisoned by his son after he built the Taj. It is well worth a visit as the two monuments share history and a guided tour will enhance understanding of the architecture and the history of these beautiful buildings.

masses05Jaipur

Into Rajasthan, Jaipur is both the capital of the state and the capital for shopping. The bazaars and warehouses are said to be some of the best in Asia. The city’s wares are tax free as it is the exporting district for India – be prepared, have your bartering skills at the ready.

The Amber Fort (aka Amer Fort) is the monument to see in Jaipur. Elephant rides are available up the hill to the fort, which also provides audio-tours. Amber Fort was designed in a way to protect its residents- the royal families.

Every fort is different in India, with its own historical significance. If visiting India for the first time, the Golden Triangle is a great place to start, just remember to bring your walking shoes!

masses04Off the beaten track

If time is available, there are several towns on this route that have their own character and magic.

Sacred Pushkar is a 2-4 hour drive from Jaipur. This little town is the most sacred site in India in Hindi religion. The best way to experience this quaint town is a camel safari, which will take you past temples and gardens with a guide to explain the relevance of it all.

Jodhpur, the Blue City, is another drive from Jaipur. Mehrangarh Fort is on the outskirts of Jodhpur and one of the largest and most spectacular forts in India. The hill-top fort has retained some of the original artefacts, serving it as a museum as well as a fort. The high altitude yields views of the city which show why it’s called the Blue City.

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