Things to do in North India

On the banks of Agra’s Yamuna River is one of the world’s best-known architectural masterpieces, the Taj Mahal. Conceived by grieving Emperor Shah Jahan for his deceased wife, the marble mausoleum was built over 22 years, involving tens of thousands of stone workers and European inlay experts. Discover its beauty at daybreak as dawn colors light up the white marble.

Architectural grandeur, captivating serenity and warm hospitality await at the Golden Temple. Mingle with pilgrims as you wander amid the mystical beauty of this 16th-century temple complex. The Golden Temple takes its names from the stunning Harmandir Sahib, the complex’s centerpiece set in the heart of a sacred pool. This is the Sikhs’ most divine shrine, a place where followers of varied religious beliefs meet in unison.

Visit India Gate, India’s national monument, which is dedicated to fallen soldiers. Admire its impressive design, watch military parades and marching bands, and enjoy picnics and games on the grassy lawns. India Gate is a 138-foot- (42-meter) tall archway honoring the tens of thousands of Indian soldiers who died serving in the British Army in World War I. Look for the inscriptions of the names of more than 13,000 soldiers who died in the Afghan War of 1919. Mounted under the arch is the Amar Jawan Jyoti, an eternal flame commemorating unknown soldiers who lost their lives in various wars.

Visit Chandni Chowk (“Moonlit Market”) to explore the bustling bazaars that form an integral part of Indian life, and to visit historical shrines and temples. Taste local street food, shop for bargains and experience the atmosphere of this chaotic and fascinating district.

Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi is among the largest Hindu temples in the world. It showcases ancient Indian architecture and traditions, and educates visitors about Hindu heritage and spirituality. “Akshardham” means the home of the supreme god.

The verdant jungle bush of Ranthambore National Park presents one of the best opportunities to spot the grand Bengal tiger. Visit historic landmarks and discover black bucks, colorful birdlife, big cats and wild dogs. Ranthambore National Park spreads across an area of about 155 square miles (400 square kilometers) of deep valleys, green grassland, placid lakes and rugged cliffs. The land was used as a hunting ground by the Jodhpur maharajas. It became a wildlife sanctuary in 1957 and a national park in 1981.