India’s Golden Triangle: A Journey I Almost Didn’t Take
With Diwali being celebrated this week, there’s no better time to share one of my most memorable adventures — our journey through India’s famous Golden Triangle. For years, I swore I’d never go to India. My hesitation stemmed from a single customer review I heard back when I worked in travel in my 20s. But how wrong I was! Then one evening, I watched the TV series The Real Best Marigold Hotel. By episode three, I was hooked. That same night, we booked our trip for the following February — one of the best months to visit India.
✈️ Delhi – The Gateway to India
Still feeling a little nervous, we began with the classic route for first-timers: The Golden Triangle Tour, covering Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur.
Flying Virgin Atlantic from Heathrow, we treated ourselves to a small premium upgrade — absolutely worth it if your budget allows.
After landing in Delhi, we joined our tour group and met our local guide — who, over the next 10 days, would take care of us with the warmth and attentiveness India is known for.
That first day was packed: a guided tour of New Delhi, a visit to a magnificent mosque, and then a well-earned dinner. The food was an adventure of its own — rich, aromatic, and full of choice.
🕌 Old Delhi & Agra – The Heart of History
Day 2 was devoted to Old Delhi, exploring Raj Ghat, the Red Fort, and the serene Gurudwara Bangla Sahib Temple before heading to Agra for the night.
The next morning brought one of the most breathtaking sights on earth: the Taj Mahal. No photos or stories truly prepare you for the moment you see it in person — it’s the ultimate symbol of love and devotion.
After lunch, we explored Agra Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, before a relaxing evening back at the hotel (and, yes, more delicious food!).
🚂 Village Life & The Ranthambore Safari
Before leaving Agra, our guide arranged a stop at a local village and school — a humbling experience that reminded me of how happiness often comes from simplicity.
We then caught a first-class train to Ranthambore, where the adventure turned wild.
At dawn, wrapped in blankets and sipping hot chai, we set off in an open-top jeep into Ranthambore National Park in search of the Bengal tiger. Though our first attempt yielded no sightings, the second day brought success — seeing a tiger in its natural habitat was simply magical.
🩷 Jaipur – The Pink City
Next, we drove to Jaipur, famously called the Pink City. Our full-day tour included the Amber Fort, City Palace, Jantar Mantar Observatory, and the stunning Palace of the Winds.
Crossing the city’s 6–8 lane roads was an adventure in itself! Our guide’s advice: “Walk as if you’re in a garden — don’t stop, don’t run.” Surprisingly, it worked.
Later, we took a tuk-tuk ride through Jaipur’s bustling streets — a sensory overload of colour, spice, and sound.
💃 A Joyful Farewell
Our final night back in Delhi held an unexpected treat — an Indian wedding taking place at our hotel! The bride’s family graciously invited us to join in the celebrations. It was a joyful, vibrant evening filled with music, dancing, and love.
❤️ India Stole My Heart
As someone who grew up in South Africa, I often feel emotional when I leave. India gave me that same feeling — a lump in my throat as we took off for home.
I fell in love with this country: its people, music, food, and traditions.
If you’re hesitating, like I once did — don’t wait. Go to India. Experience it for yourself. It’s a journey that will stay with you forever.
💡 Travel Tip:
The best time to visit the Golden Triangle is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing.