India, the remarkable land filled with history and culture, is a must-see destination for all. Known for stunning mosques and temples, Bollywood, and tasty Indian spices, there is no doubt as to why India is at the top of the bucket list for many tourists.

The Golden Triangle is one of the most travelled routes in India. It combines the three major Indian cities of New Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, and features iconic sites, picturesque monuments and plain landscapes throughout.

India’s capital, New Delhi, is a modernised city blended with rich history. The heart of the nation is packed full of iconic ancient sites, and on every corner, you will find a story. This city is home to the biggest mosque in the whole country, Jama Masjid. This mosque was built in 1644 and is also known as Masjid-I-Jahanuma, the mosque commanding the view of the world! A trip to Humayun’s Tomb is another stop you must take while in New Delhi. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most recognisable landmarks in India, so is a must-do stop along the Golden Triangle.

The city of Agra is situated around the Yamuna river and is best known for housing the Taj Mahal. The greatest monument built for love, the Taj Mahal was built by Shah Jahan in 1631, in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died during childbirth. While the Taj Mahal is breath-taking, it is not the only place to visit while in Agra. The red-walled Agra Fort, Itmad-ud-Daula, and Jahangir Palace are only a few of the many attractions to name that you should experience while in this city.

Jaipur is the last but not least stop along the Golden Triangle. Known as the ‘Pink City’ as many buildings are painted in this dominant colour. Spend your time exploring the Palace of Winds, Hawa Mahal, that sits on the edge of the City Palace, and is built by pink and red sandstone. The markets in Jaipur are vibrant and full of energy and is a great way to end your trip around the Golden Triangle.

• The official language of India is Hindi.
• The official currency used is the Indian Rupee (₹).
• Major airports include Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), Mumbai Chhatrapathi Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM), and Bengaluru Kempegowda International Airport (BLR).
• Be careful when purchasing bottled water, as some markets will refill their bottles of water with tap water. So inspect it before purchasing!
• Take your shoes off before entering temples.
• India’s Monsoon season is from June to September.
• Summer months (March to May) New Delhi averages at daily highs of 29°C/84°F and lows of 15°C/59°F.
• Winter months (December to March) New Delhi averages at daily highs of 22°C/72°F and lows of 9°C/48°F.
• Make sure to bring some diarrhoea tablets in case you get ‘Delhi Belly’.
• Cover yourself and dress appropriately to avoid unwanted stares.
• India drives on the left-hand side of the road.
• The drinking age is 21 years old.
• Power plugs are of type C, D, and M. Voltage is 230 V and frequency is 50 Hz.

Bull Surfing

Are you a thrill-seeker, looking to experience an old and unusual cultural practice? If so, then attending a Bull Surfing show in Kerala, South India is for you.

Forget the sea, water and riding waves, bull surfing occurs in a muddy rice paddy field and is surrounded by danger.

The race is pretty straight forward. Two bulls charge full speed down a rice paddy field soaked ½ feet deep in muddy water. In between the bulls stands the surfer, who stands on a wooden plank behind them and hangs on to the rope connected to their tails.

One surfer competes in the race at a time, and whoever finishes a lap the quickest is crowned the winner!

This event is part of the Maramadi Festival and takes place on one day during the post-harvest season in August.

Address: Palakkad, 678508, India

Coordinates: 10.5144, 76.6413