Travel Guide
Extend your stay and explore the wonders of India with our curated recommendations
We're thrilled that you're joining us for our wedding celebration at Samode Palace! Since many of you are traveling from afar, we've put together this guide to help you make the most of your time in India.
The Golden Triangle of India—Jaipur, Agra, and Delhi—offers some of the country's most iconic experiences. From the majestic Taj Mahal to the vibrant streets of Jaipur, there's something magical waiting around every corner.
Below you'll find our personal recommendations for each city, including our favorite cafes, restaurants, bars, and must-see attractions. We hope this helps you plan your perfect Indian adventure! Please feel free to reach out if you need help making plans.
Known as the "Pink City" for its distinctive terracotta-colored buildings, Jaipur is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and royal grandeur. As the capital of Rajasthan and home to our wedding venue, this city offers a perfect introduction to the splendor of India's royal heritage.
Beyond our wedding festivities, we encourage you to explore Jaipur's magnificent palaces, bustling bazaars, and exceptional culinary scene. Here are some of our favorite spots that showcase the best of what this magical city has to offer.
Cafes
Tapri Central
A local favorite with a rooftop setting offering stunning views of the city. Known for its extensive tea menu and delicious Indian snacks like bun maska and masala chai. One of Sujay's favorite spots - be sure to try the maggi!
Café White Sage
A serene oasis with a beautiful garden setting, offering organic fare and specialty coffees. Their avocado toast and fresh smoothies are particularly delightful.
Town Coffee
A chic, modern café with excellent artisanal coffee and pastries. Their cold brews and pour-overs are some of the best in the city, perfect for coffee connoisseurs.
OTH (On The House)
A European-style café with a cozy atmosphere and excellent breakfast options. Their eggs benedict and freshly baked bread are must-tries.
Anokhi Cafe
Located next to the famous Anokhi textile store, this charming café serves organic, farm-to-table cuisine. Their salads and freshly baked cakes are exceptional.
Restaurants
Peshawri
An iconic restaurant known for its authentic North-West Frontier cuisine. Famous for its succulent kebabs, dal bukhara, and tandoori specialties, all served in a rustic, elegant setting. The restaurant encourages dining with hands instead of cutlery for an authentic experience. Fun fact, Saloni sat next to Dev Patel here once!
Niro's Restaurant
A Jaipur institution since 1949, Niro's offers a perfect blend of Indian, Continental, and Chinese cuisine. Known for its old-world charm and consistently excellent food, it's a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Don't miss their famous laal maas and butter chicken. Saloni's grandparents use to take her here all the time as a kid.
The Johri Restaurant
Set in a beautifully restored haveli in the heart of the jeweler's market, The Johri offers a refined vegetarian menu that celebrates Rajasthani flavors with a contemporary twist. The stunning interiors with jewel-toned furnishings and vintage details create a magical dining atmosphere.
Bar Palladio
One of Saloni's favorite spots in Jaipur! This stunning blue-themed restaurant and bar inspired by Italian aesthetics is set in the beautiful Narain Niwas Palace. The enchanting décor and garden setting make it perfect for sophisticated dining and evening drinks.
Meraaki Kitchen
One of Saloni's favorite restaurants in Jaipur, offering a delightful fusion of global cuisines with a contemporary twist. Their innovative dishes, cozy ambiance, and attention to detail make it a must-visit dining destination.
Giardino at Taj Jai Mahal Palace
A beautiful Italian restaurant set in the lush gardens of the historic Taj Jai Mahal Palace. The outdoor seating surrounded by manicured lawns creates a magical dining atmosphere, especially in the evening. Their authentic Italian cuisine, including wood-fired pizzas and homemade pastas, is prepared with the finest ingredients.
Sites & Activities
City Palace
A magnificent complex of courtyards, gardens, and buildings in the heart of Jaipur. The palace museum houses royal costumes, weapons, and artwork that showcase the opulent lifestyle of the Maharajas.
Amber Fort & Light Show
A stunning hilltop fortress with honey-colored walls that glow at sunset. Don't miss the evening sound and light show that brings the fort's history to life through dramatic narration and illumination.
Jantar Mantar
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring the world's largest stone sundial and other astronomical instruments built in the 18th century. These massive structures demonstrate the scientific advancement of ancient India.
Tip: Visit with a knowledgeable guide who can explain how these fascinating instruments work.
Chokhi Dhani
An ethnic village resort that offers an immersive experience of traditional Rajasthani culture. Enjoy folk dances, puppet shows, camel rides, and an authentic Rajasthani thali (platter) dinner served in traditional style.
Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds)
This iconic five-story palace with its honeycomb of 953 small windows was designed to allow royal ladies to observe street life without being seen. The intricate latticework and pink sandstone facade make it one of Jaipur's most photographed landmarks.
Home to the magnificent Taj Mahal, Agra is a must-visit destination on any trip to northern India. This historic city on the banks of the Yamuna River was once the capital of the Mughal Empire and houses some of India's most impressive architectural marvels.
While Agra can be visited as a day trip from Delhi or Jaipur, we recommend spending at least one night to experience the Taj Mahal at both sunrise and sunset, when the changing light creates magical effects on the white marble.
Must-See Attractions
Taj Mahal
This UNESCO World Heritage site is the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the most universally admired masterpieces of world heritage. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, this white marble mausoleum is the ultimate symbol of eternal love.
Agra Fort
This imposing red sandstone fort was the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty until 1638. The fort complex includes numerous palaces, audience halls, and mosques, all showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and architectural innovation.
Fatehpur Sikri
Located about 40 km from Agra, this abandoned city was built by Emperor Akbar as his capital but was mysteriously abandoned shortly after. The well-preserved complex includes palaces, courts, a mosque, and other buildings that blend different architectural styles.
The Oberoi Amarvilas
Even if you're not staying at this luxurious hotel, consider visiting for a meal or drinks. Every room offers a breathtaking view of the Taj Mahal, and the property itself, with its fountains, terraced lawns, and Moorish-inspired architecture, is worth experiencing.
India's capital is a fascinating blend of old and new, where ancient monuments stand alongside modern skyscrapers. Delhi is divided into two parts: Old Delhi, the historic walled city built by the Mughals, and New Delhi, the imperial capital established by the British. This vibrant metropolis offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and cuisine that reflects India's diverse heritage.
As the gateway to India for most international travelers, Delhi is worth exploring for a few days before or after the wedding. Here are some highlights that showcase the city's unique character and charm.
Must-See Attractions
Lodhi Garden
A serene 90-acre park containing the tombs of 15th and 16th-century rulers. This beautiful green space offers a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle, with walking paths, ancient monuments, and manicured gardens.
Tip: Visit in the early morning to see locals practicing yoga and tai chi among the historic tombs.
Sunder Nursery
A recently restored 16th-century heritage park complex adjacent to Humayun's Tomb. This 90-acre paradise features Mughal-era monuments, water features, and meticulously maintained gardens with over 300 tree species.
Tip: Visit on a Saturday when there's a farmers' market with organic produce and artisanal foods.
Red Fort
This massive red sandstone fort was the main residence of the Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years. The impressive complex includes palaces, audience halls, and museums that showcase the grandeur of the Mughal era.
Tip: Attend the sound and light show in the evening for a dramatic retelling of the fort's history.
India Gate
A majestic war memorial in the heart of New Delhi, commemorating the Indian soldiers who died in World War I. The surrounding gardens and wide boulevards make it a popular spot for evening strolls.
Humayun's Tomb
A UNESCO World Heritage site that inspired the design of the Taj Mahal. This magnificent garden tomb was built in 1570 and is a stunning example of Mughal architecture with its perfect symmetry and red sandstone and white marble construction.
Helpful Information for Your Indian Adventure
Transportation
- Uber and Ola (India's ride-sharing app) are widely available in all three cities.
- For longer journeys between cities, consider hiring a private car with driver.
- Auto-rickshaws are good for short distances, but always agree on a price before starting your journey.
Weather & Clothing
- December in North India is generally pleasant with cool, dry weather.
- Daytime temperatures typically range from 15-25°C (59-77°F).
- Evenings can be chilly, so bring layers and a light jacket.
- Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring historical sites.
- Modest clothing is recommended when visiting religious sites.
Health & Safety
- Stick to bottled water and avoid ice in drinks.
- Carry hand sanitizer and use it frequently.
- Be cautious with street food; opt for busy stalls with high turnover.
- Keep a copy of your passport and important documents.
- Use hotel safes for valuables and avoid displaying expensive items.
Cultural Etiquette
- Greet people with "Namaste" with palms pressed together.
- Remove shoes before entering temples and homes.
- Ask permission before taking photos of people.
- Dress modestly, especially at religious sites.
- Use your right hand for eating and giving/receiving objects.
We hope these recommendations help you plan your Indian adventure! If you have any questions or need more specific suggestions, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.
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