Early in the year I was yearning for an adventure when my friend suggested I join her on her business trip to India, I was excited about the opportunity, often fantasising about exploring the country. With her extensive experience traveling there, she was the perfect person to navigate this vast and vibrant country with. After a few days together, I meandered off on my own journey, guided by the warmth and knowledge of local guides.

My travels took me through the iconic Golden Triangle—Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra. Each city offered unique experiences, each so special and memorable to me.

The people I connected with during my whole trip, warm and welcoming, made the experience all the more special. 

 

DELHI

Landing in Delhi at the break of dawn and greeted by our experienced guide, Vikas, our first stop was Humayun's Tomb. The beauty of this historical architectural monument was a perfect welcome to India.   

We made our way to the National Crafts Museum next, a place where India's vibrant tapestry of cultural heritage and artistic traditions converge.  Upon entering you are immediately amongst skilfully crafted metal work, intricate pottery, exquisite textiles and captivating folk art.  This visit left me with a profound appreciation for the workmanship and creativity of these artisans and is a treasure trove one must visit if in Delhi.

Later, we found ourselves in Chandni Chowk, one of the busiest, if not the busiest markets in India. This was a complete change to my daily life in Mount Maunganui, and precisely the adventure I sought. The sheer volume of people, diverse aromas, flavours and the inner workings of this market were exhilarating. I particularly loved the labyrinthine alleyways of Kinari Bazaar, where we found beautiful ribbons and trims, along with the most delicious sweet Jabeli.

The contrast between these three places was stark yet beautiful, each capturing a different essence

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

JAIPUR

In Jaipur, I was fortunate enough to meet the wonderful Shaivyya Gupta, an exceptionally talented and intelligent woman who lives and creates in Jaipur.

Originally from Kolkata, she now owns her own block-printing business. We were together across a couple of days and she shared a side to Jaipur not often seen, which I absolutely loved and will treasure that time together and what I learnt not only about block printing and craft but about what it is truly like to live in India as a business woman.

One of the more unique places I visited in Jaipur was Galta Ji, also known as the Monkey Temple. Nestled in the Aravalli hills, the natural springs and temples built into the landscape created a breathtaking blend of natural and man-made beauty.  It was special to witness and learn about the pilgrimage made and traditional spiritual rituals by my lovely and well learned guide, Jai.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AGRA

A visit to the Taj Mahal might be considered an obvious highlight, but standing before this magnificent monument at first light was a truly transformative experience. With the sage advice from our knowledgable and sweet guide, Sachin we arrived at the entrance gate at 5:30am, where we were among the first to enter. The morning drizzle only added to the dreamlike scene. As the sun rose and the drizzle had abated, the changes of colour to the marble Taj were mesmerising.

The scale of her is too hard to describe and the intricate detail in every single surface of the grounds was overwhelming.  I didn’t think it would make me as emotional as it did, but the love and history here was truly special.

Another highlight in Agra was a craft walk, where I met local artisans in their homes and studios.  I was particularly enchanted by the intricate embroidery and appliqué work we saw being produced in front of us.  After going to the Taj Mahal and then visiting a marble inlay workshop gave it so much more perspective at the labour intensive work that went into the construction.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 A favourite meal was Choley, a chickpea curry served with chapati for breakfast, often accompanied by a fresh, creamy mango Lassi. However, my most cherished culinary moments were sharing chai on the streets, each vendor had subtle differences on this beloved beverage and ritual.

Each city I visited left a unique impression. Agra, often dismissed as a quick stopover, captivated me with its history and the talented artisans I met.

For those planning to travel to India, meticulous planning is essential, but so is leaving room for spontaneity. I worked with Fiona Caulfield who expertly collaborated with me on my itinerary and got to know me before designing my stops. Her experience, help and advice were invaluable. Having a knowledgeable driver, like the gentle and kind Satpal from Banyan group who accompanied me, can make all the difference, particularly if your trip is a quick one like mine.   

India’s rich cultural heritage, and the warmth and hospitality of the incredible people I met along the way, made this journey unforgettable.