Gulf Air flights to Delhi will take you to the first destination in the famed Golden Triangle in Northern India which is formed by Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. Each destination is an experience in itself, and reveals the rich cultural and historical legacy of India.
Most travellers will take flights to Delhi and start their tour from the capital of India and the ultimate seat of power. Divided into Old and New Delhi, it is a city of contrasts with beguiling charm. The main attractions in Delhi include the India Gate, a majestic arch built in memory of soldiers killed in World War I.
The most magnificent monument for the many travellers on flights to Delhi is the Red Fort, built in 1638. Today, it is the venue from which the Prime Minister addresses the nation on India's Independence Day. The towering Qutab Minar reaching 72.5 metres into the sky is an architectural marvel of the 17th century, as is the Jantar Mantar, an observatory built in 1724. Other monuments that should figure on the ‘must see' list of any traveller on flights to Delhi are Rashtrapathi Bhavan, Humayun's Tomb and Parliament House. No trip to Delhi would be complete without venturing into Chandni Chowk, the city's labyrinthine bazaar, which dates back more than a century.
An erstwhile Mughal city, Agra is home to the Taj Mahal, one of the ‘Seven Wonders of the World'. This masterpiece in marble is a mausoleum that was created by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. With fine inlay work using precious and semi-precious stones, a view of the Taj Mahal in the moonlight is said to be mesmerising. Agra can easily be accessed by a 40 minute flight from Delhi.
En route to Agra by road, you can visit the tomb of Akbar at Sikandra with its gorgeous landscaped gardens and the gigantic gateway called ‘Buland Darwaza', which features intricate mosaics of the Mughal era. The enchanting city of Fatehpur Sikri, which is a short drive from Agra is well worth a visit.
The final area of the Golden Triangle is Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan. Also known as the ‘Pink City', Jaipur is well known for its many forts, lakes, palaces and rich culture. One of the main attractions, the Hawa Mahal, is a splendorous pink colour with intricately carved trelliswork. The Amber Fort, the Jaigarh Fort and City Palace are other important attractions. Jaipur can be reached by a 40 minute flight from Delhi.
Hand woven fabrics or khadi,
brassware and woodcarvings make good souvenirs from Delhi . Leather goods,
hand woven rugs and engraved marble inlay work are popular buys in Agra
. In Jaipur you can find block printed fabrics with vegetable dyes, semiprecious
stones, silver and lac jewellery, handmade quilts and handicrafts
Transport:
In Delhi, taxis are the
best way to get around, but make sure the fare is negotiated first. Though,
throughout the trip, it is better to rely on prebooked
transport
Cuisine:
North Indian food is rich and
wholesome. Stuffed parathas, naans and kulchas (different types of Indian
bread), thick gravies and grilled meats or kebabs are just some of the
selections on offer. Vegetarians are also well catered for.
Infants are not provided with a seat. If your baby is more than 6 months old, you may book a seat for him/her listing him/her as a “child”. More information is available at carriage of infants.
