The Golden Triangle

It was the week of Christmas 2024, a time when the world seemed to slow down, just enough for us to pack our bags and embark on a quick yet thrilling getaway. This wasn’t our usual vacation; this was the Golden Triangle with a twist—a dash of our love for birding. Four cities in eight days. A whirlwind, yes, but one brimming with adventure.

Our journey began in Delhi, a city that has always felt like a warm hug, thanks to my grandparents. We spent December 24th and 25th doing exactly what we intended: nothing extraordinary, just soaking in their company. Cyberhub was alive with Christmas cheer, and we joined the festivities with lunch at Cafeteria & Company and coffee at Blue Tokai. Conversations flowed as easily as the festive tunes in the background.

The next morning, the road to Agra beckoned, and we found ourselves drawn to the Taj Mahal. Growing up, it had been the subject of storybooks and puzzles, a wonder of the world we had only imagined. Now, standing before it, the monument’s ethereal beauty was undeniable. Despite the throngs of tourists, the crisp winter air made the visit worthwhile. With a guide narrating tales of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz, we wandered through history, capturing moments both in our hearts and on our cameras.

Taj Mahal, Agra

From the Taj, we traveled to Fatehpur Sikri, a tale of two marvels in one—Sikri, the palace complex, and Fatehpur, the fort and dargah. The intricacies of Akbar’s life unfolded as we explored the Diwan-e-Aam, Diwan-e-Khas, and the treasury. Jodha Bai’s palace stood out, a testament to her significance as the mother of Akbar’s heir. The Buland Darwaza loomed large, an architectural giant that left us in awe.

Buland Darwaza (Top left) and Fatehpur Sikri

The chill of the night accompanied us to Bharatpur, where the promise of birding adventures at the Keoladeo National Park awaited. Over the next two days, we immersed ourselves in the sanctuary’s tranquil beauty. Day one saw us traverse 13 kilometers, a mix of traveling in the E-rickshaw and walking, armed with binoculars, cameras, and unbridled enthusiasm. By the end, we had spotted 70 species. Day two, felt even more rewarding—a combination of better weather, mental readiness, and perhaps a touch of luck. In total, we recorded 95 unique species, each sighting a treasure.

Bharatpur- Keoladeo National Park

As the bell curve of excitement peaked, we headed to Jaipur. The city welcomed us with its regal charm. Our first stop was the City Palace, where history felt alive. As we stood in the courtyard, the princess herself drove past. Our guide’s reverent greeting of “Khamma Ghani” was a humbling reminder of the deep respect the locals held for their royal lineage. The museum within the palace showcased ornate robes and weaponry, each piece telling a story of craftsmanship and valor. Particularly inspiring was the tale of King Bhawani Singh Ji, who served in the Indian Army, fought in the 1971 war, and donated his earnings to charity.

An evening at Chokhi Dhani brought Rajasthan’s vibrant culture to life. From traditional games to soulful music and local delicacies, it was an experience that left us with full hearts and fuller stomachs.

Rajasthani Culture

The final day of 2024 began early as we made our way to Amer Fort. This magnificent structure, with its secret passageways and stunning views, was everything we had imagined and more. A local café near the Secretariat provided a cozy lunch, and a street-side vendor: a papaya milkshake—an unexpected delight—rounded off the meal.

Our last stop was the Hawa Mahal, a five-story marvel designed for the queens to observe life outside without being seen. Its resemblance to Lord Krishna’s crown added to its charm. The tales of transgender guards, who enabled the queens to move freely without veils, were fascinating insights into the era’s unique dynamics.

As the sun set on December 31st, so too did our journey and the year. From the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal to the tranquil allure of Bharatpur and the regal splendor of Jaipur, this trip was a kaleidoscope of memories. Until next time, the Golden Triangle and its stories will stay etched in our hearts.