The Indian cities of New Delhi, Jaipur and Agra are referred to as the Golden Triangle. The three cities in northwest India – which have the highest number of visitors in the country – are linked by a road and rail network. The distance between the three cities ranges from 125 to 155 kilometres.
The three cities form an almost equilateral triangle on a map and are home to many tourist attractions. Most tour providers offer itineraries covering all three cities, beginning in New Delhi before heading south to Agra and then west to Jaipur.
India’s interesting past can be seen up close in the country’s architectural masterpieces, many of which are on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The Golden Triangle and its surroundings are home to many must-see sites, ranging from ancient temples to modern design. This mixture of old and new is something that architects such as Kulvir Singh Virk can greatly appreciate.
Delhi
The architecture in Delhi is amazing. Tourists can visit Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is supposed to have inspired the Taj Mahal. This tomb, constructed in 1570, is culturally significant since it was the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent. Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi was the first of the vast dynastic mausoleums that became synonymous with Mughal architecture.
Another must-visit in Delhi is the Qutub Minar, the world’s highest brick minaret and one of India’s most popular landmarks. Its astonishing height of 238 feet is the equivalent of a modern 20-storey high-rise residential skyscraper.
Agra
In Agra, visitors should see the famed and magnificent Taj Mahal, which is a mausoleum complex. It is regarded as the best example of Mughal architecture.
Mughal architecture blends Persian, Indian and Islamic styles. The Taj Mahal is one of the world’s most recognisable structures, with millions of people visiting it each year.
Jaipur
In Jaipur, most people visit the Amber Fort. It is perched high on a hill and is one of the main tourist attractions in the Jaipur area. Raja Man Singh I built the Ambert Fort, which is famous for its aesthetic style. It combines Hindu and Rajput features and is made of white and red sandstone. Raja Man Singh I began work on the Amber Fort in 1592.