Red Fort, Delhi

Taking a trip to India is an increasingly popular choice for a holiday and it’s no wonder with so many amazing tours to India available. However, for many people it’s their first time in this beautiful country; this blog takes a look at some of the countries most famous sites, to give the first timers out there a taste of what they can expect in this culturally rich destination.

The first of our three sights is the impressive Red Fort, set in the bustling city of Delhi. The site, also know by its more popular Indian name Lal Quila, is one of the biggest draws in the city. The massive fort sits on the bank of the river Yamuna; with its thick red sandstone walls, stout bastions and fantastic turrets it has a real sense of presence. The site is also one of the oldest and largest monuments in the country; its outer wall covers just over 2 kilometres. The citadel was constructed in the 17^th century by Shahjahan and serves as a link to Delhi’s imperial past.

Next we have the magical Hawa Mahal Palace, located in the city of Jaipur. This prominent building is one of the most impressive in the region, mainly due to its unique architecture and bright terracotta red colouring. The Hawa Mahal was constructed by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799 and draws its design influences from both Rajputana and Mughal architecture. The building is comprised of five main stories, which taper towards the top of the building. Each of the stories features hundreds of tiny windows, cut out to form a lattice work. The building really is a must see if you’re visiting the city and is best viewed as the early morning sun catches the building.

Finally, no list of famous sights in India would be complete without a mention of the Taj Mahal. This beautiful, and iconic, monument is synonymous with love and romance. Standing proudly on the banks of the River Yamuna in Agra, the monument makes for a breathtaking sight. With its pearly white walls, exquisite carvings and murals formed of gemstones; the building itself is a mausoleum that was constructed by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, in 1653, in memory of one of his wives, Mumtaz Mahal. Today the site is widely recognised as one of the masterpieces of the world’s heritage.

Experience all these fantastic attrations and more on a Wendy Wu tour.

Request a free copy of our brand new India brochure here.

Taj Mahal

Rajasthan is one of the largest and most populous regions in India. Its name translates to “the land of kings” and it’s well named, as the region features some of the best cultural sights in India. In this blog we take a look at three of the great destinations that you can discover on a trip to this magical location.

Udaipur – City of Lakes

Udaipur is, like many Indian cities, well known for its brilliant history, culture and scenery. It’s the lakes, as the city’s nickname would suggest, that draw in the biggest crowds though and with good reason. The five large lakes that surround the city, Lake Pichola, Dudh Talai Lake, Udai Sagar, Fateh Sagar Lake and Swaroop Sagar are said to be some of the most beautiful lakes in the whole region. That’s not the only thing the city is famous for though. The architecture of Udaipur is also spectacular; the city features some of the best Rajput-era palaces in India along with a great mix of traditional temples and memorials.

Jaisalmer – The Golden City

Jaisalmer, also know as the Golden City because of the region’s yellow sand that reflects the sunlight, is one of the oldest towns in the region. The town has a long and fascinating history, including being one of the last states to sign a treaty with the British and surviving several Medieval sieges. As with many of the region’s towns and cities the beautiful buildings are a big attraction here. One of the main features of Jaisalmer is the impressive fort that sits on a ridge above the town; the fort also contains the palace and some excellent examples of ornate Jain temples.

Delhi – Gateway to the Gangetic Plain

No blog about the cities of Rajasthan would be complete without a mention of the region’s largest city, Delhi; India’s capital city. Modern Delhi is formed of two main areas and a scattering of smaller towns; New and Old Delhi – a remnant of British rule – are the two largest. The city area has been continuously inhabited since the 6th century BC and because of this has a rich cultural and historical past. Some of the regions most famous sites are located within the city’s bounds, including the Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb and Qutab Minar, all of which are recognised as World Heritage Sites.

This is just a small taste of what you can experience on one of the holidays to India that feature Rajasthan as a destination. It truly is an experience you won’t forget.

Request a free copy of Wendy Wu Tours newly launched India brochure here.