The Golden Triangle - India

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Everyone by now has heard airlines offer vouchers for oversold flights.  It seems to happen more often these days and on one such trip back to the East Coast, we finally decided, "why not?".  

It all started at the check-in counter where we were presented with the option of $2000 in vouchers for our seats.  An intriguing offer that we thought about, but decided to go ahead through security.  At the gate, they once again announced voucher offers, after some additional thought we decided to take the plunge.  While the voucher price did end up being less at the gate, we were able to get $1600 in airlines credit, food vouchers and taxi transportation to/from the airport.  Delaying our trip by only 6 hours created an opportunity for another adventure and why not head to India to experience the Golden Triangle!  

Delhi

Our adventure in India started in the capital city of Delhi, which is home to parliament headquarter and a wealth of historical monuments that express the India's rich history of religious culture. Qutb Minar, a tower of 73 meters high, was built by Qatar-ud-din upon the defeat of the Hindu rule.  The tower is surrounded by the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, the first mosque built in India and made of material from the demolition of Hindu temples throughout the country. This minaret served to call the faithful to prayer and prominently displayed the beginning of Muslim rule in India. 

Jaipur

Grab interest

Just 4 hours from Delhi, will bring you to Jaipur, also known as the Pink City and the Amber Fort.  The city is surrounded by a large stone wall with an astonishing palace infused with Hindu and Islamic styles.  A painted elephant ride to the hilltop palace boasts amazing views of the tundra hills and Maota Lake.  

Agra

The highlight of the Golden Triangle undoubtedly is the Taj Mahal.  As the sun rose, this white marble building is awe-inspiring and pictures do not do this monument justice.  This mausoleum was built in memory of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan's wife and every details pays tribute to his love.  The impeccable symmetrical architecture is surrounded by beautiful gardens.  It's truly a work of Art!