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In the heart of northern India, where the Yamuna River winds its way through the historic city of Agra, stands a testament to love that has transcended centuries. A masterpiece of marble, a symbol of eternal romance, and a jewel in the crown of ancient wonders —the Taj Mahal is more than just a monument; it's a living chronicle etched in white stone. The Taj Mahal beckons visitors from across the globe to immerse themselves in its timeless allure. Join us as we unravel the history, facts, and spellbinding beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site . A journey into the heart of a monument that needs no introduction and deserves all the admiration. In This Post... ● Our Highlights ● The History ● Interesting Facts ● Open Hours & Tickets ● How to Get There See More... ● Where to Stay ● Best Time to Visit ● Tips for Visiting ● Watch on YouTube ● Our Experience Rating ● FAQ ● Travel Resources Our Taj Mahal Highlights When we initially booked our tickets, we had hoped to visit the Taj on Friday, as we were due to take a bus to Jaipur on Saturday. We then found out that it was closed on Fridays, meaning we would have to see it on Saturday morning, with our bus scheduled for 2 pm. So we were kind of forced into the sunrise slot, which we did not mind at all. That being said, we could not have possibly foreseen the gastro issues we suffered while in Agra, making that 5 am start supremely difficult. We suspect we were being hit by a severe bout of food poisoning, and for those of you who have experienced this, you will know that being close to a bathroom is just about all you can do about that. Judging by the state of us both on the Friday, the chances of making it to the Taj at 5 am on the Saturday were very slim. With no food and only water for company, our energy was low, and our need for consistent bathroom breaks was as infuriating as it was necessary. Most unfortunately, when the time came and our alarms went off, Jenn was still completely incapacitated with severe, piercing abdominal pain. Visitors patiently wait in the security queue at the Taj Mahal, preparing to enter the iconic monument under the vigilant oversight of security personnel. The same can be said for Leon, although he was feeling a little stronger. Despite the pain, we knew we could not both miss out. It's the frickin' Taj Mahal! One of our biggest reasons for coming to India was to see this famous mausoleum, and we just couldn't bail on it. With Jenn's situation looking pretty dire, Leon had to take up the baton and gingerly made it outside to meet a now recovered Jackson and Marjo. If you have not been following our series, Jackson & Marjo are our fellow travel YouTubers. Jackson had also been severely sick but got hit a couple of days before us. Visitors queue at the Taj Mahal's Eastern Gate Facility Center, preparing to explore the iconic monument. In case you did not know, you are able to use Uber in India to call a rickshaw, so we did that, hopped in, and headed over to the East Gate. It only took 5 minutes from our hotel ( Lucky Guesthouse ; we highly recommend it). After saying good morning to a cow (yes, a cow in the road; check that out in our YouTube video) and waiting in line for a few minutes, the gates were opened at precisely 5.30 am. The queue was really small when we arrived at just after 5am but by the time the gate opened it was very, very long. So our first tip is to get there as early as possible if you want to avoid missing the sun as it rises behind the Taj. The security at the Taj Mahal is quite stringent. Visitors must present their tickets along with a valid ID, and there is a security check similar to those at airports. Men and women are separated during the screening, and all bags are scanned, followed by body searches. There are strict regulations regarding what items can be brought inside; for example, lighters, tripods, and bags larger than a small purse are prohibited. Each group is allowed to bring only one professional camera. Fortunately for us, only Jackson had a professional camera, as Leon had left our Insta360 back in the hotel (which isn’t great in low light, so he opted to use his phone instead). Once through security, we made our way through a long corridor before stepping out into the large walled courtyard, sandwiched between the main gate and the Taj Ganj. It was still pretty dark, and the anticipation was running high. In that moment, it was as if the gastro pains had drifted away. The great Taj was almost upon us. Surrounded by pink stone walls, the main forecourt is immaculate and very impressive. It houses the servant quarters and royal tombs, and of course, the main gate to the Taj. The gate is another architectural marvel and is as imposing as it is beautiful. The view of the Taj through its archway is spectacular, and no doubt you have seen that photo shot before! It was already getting pretty busy, but the Taj is so mesmerizing that none of that matters. As soon as it enters the vision, it is hard to pull away. The allure is intense, and the desire to take photos and videos is almost as natural as breathing! Visitors gather at the grand entrance gate to the Taj Mahal, highlighted by intricate architectural details and a serene evening sky. After spending some time in the main Charbagh (a Persian and Indo-Persian quadrilateral garden design inspired by the four gardens of Paradise mentioned in the Quran), we proceeded to the lotus pool, which beautifully reflects the Taj Mahal. Framed by an archway, the majestic Taj Mahal stands tall under a cloudy sky. The symmetry is truly remarkable and a testament to the skill of its builders. Although the fountain was not functioning for some reason, this did not detract from the experience. Visitors stroll through the gardens of the Taj Mahal, gazing at its majestic white marble structure beautifully reflected in the serene water feature on a cloudy day. By this point, the time was approaching 6:30 am, and sadly, the sky was so cloudy that the sun was unable to come through. Rain seemed to be on its way, and thus the hope for that epic sunrise had all but ended. That being said, it did contribute to it being slightly cooler, which was a welcome break from the intense heat we had been experiencing so far in India. After much filming, photographing, and admiring, we made our way to the mausoleum entrance. The closer we got, the more spectacular the Taj Mahal became. Whilst not as sparkly white as it once was (owing to years of intense pollution in the area), it is still pretty phenomenal to look at, and we can only imagine what a difference sunlight would have made. The majestic Taj Mahal stands serenely under a cloudy sky, showcasing its intricate white marble architecture and lush gardens. One thing that was quite surprising was the Masjid Mosque and Mehman Khana (library), which are built on either side of the Taj. Most of the photos that we have ever seen just show the Taj itself, and these structures, made of vibrant red brick, are a wonder to look at. A striking view of the mosque at the Taj Mahal, showcasing its intricate red sandstone architecture under a cloudy sky. The riverfront terrace on the Yamuna River behind the Taj is also incredible, and perhaps these are the lesser-talked-about elements of the Taj that make for a very nice surprise. The mausoleum was also very interesting, as prior to going in, we did not expect there to be Arabic writing adorning the walls of the tomb chamber. It was also quite small, much smaller than we anticipated. When going inside, you can walk around the tomb area, which is hidden by ornate barriers, and then through a short passageway and out of the rear entrance overlooking the Yamuna River. As short as it is, we would still recommend doing this, as stepping foot inside this mausoleum has to be one of the most surreal things any traveler can do! It is too good an opportunity to miss; just bear in mind you must book tickets in advance for this and cannot purchase them on-site. All in all, even with stomach issues, no sun, and rain that started as we were leaving, this whole experience was brilliant, and we would not change anything about it. If anything, it made us appreciate being there even more. The Taj Mahal certainly has that wow factor, and it is a true blessing to have ticked this one off the list! Read on for more on the history of the Taj Mahal, some interesting facts about it, how to get there, plus opening times and ticket information. The History of the Taj Mahal Construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1632, and it took approximately 22 years to complete. The main mausoleum was completed in 1643, but the entire complex, including the gardens and other structures, was finished in 1653. The construction involved the efforts of over 20,000 workers and craftsmen from across the Mughal Empire and beyond. The Taj Mahal was commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The majestic Taj Mahal stands gracefully against a soft evening sky, its marble dome and minarets reflected in the serene waters of the garden's central pool. Mumtaz Mahal died during childbirth in 1631, and Shah Jahan was devastated by her death. In her memory, he decided to build a magnificent mausoleum. The Taj Mahal is often regarded as a symbol of eternal love for this reason. The story of Shah Jahan's love for Mumtaz Mahal and the exquisite beauty of the monument have contributed to its romantic reputation. The Taj Mahal is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, blending elements from Islamic, Persian, Ottoman Turkish, and Indian architectural styles. A majestic view of the Taj Mahal under a cloudy sky, highlighting its intricate marble architecture and towering minarets. The principal architect is believed to be Ustad Ahmad Lahori. The white marble used in its construction was brought from the quarries of Makrana in Rajasthan. Shah Jahan ruled the Mughal Empire from 1628 to 1658. However, in his later years, he faced internal strife and was eventually deposed by his son Aurangzeb. Shah Jahan spent the last years of his life under house arrest in Agra Fort, where he could see the Taj Mahal from a distance. The Taj Mahal was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. It is recognized not only for its architectural beauty but also for its cultural and historical significance. Over the years, the Taj Mahal has faced challenges such as pollution, environmental degradation, and the effects of time. Conservation efforts, including restoration projects, have been undertaken to preserve this iconic monument. Interesting Facts About the Taj Mahal The Taj Mahal is a unique structure in so many ways, and many of the facts and interesting things about it have been well-documented over time. We have put together a few of them here for you; do you know them all? ⪢ Symmetrical Design: The Taj Mahal is renowned for its perfect symmetry. The four minarets surrounding the main dome are tilted slightly outward to prevent them from falling on the main structure in case of an earthquake. As a result, if you draw a line down the center of the monument, the Taj Mahal's components on one side mirror those on the other. ⪢ Changing Colors: The color of the Taj Mahal appears to change at different times of the day. It can appear pinkish in the morning, milky white in the evening, and golden when the moon shines. This phenomenon is due to the reflection of the sunlight on the white marble and the varying atmospheric conditions. ⪢ Inscribed Verses: The Taj Mahal is adorned with intricate calligraphy from the Quran, and the inscriptions include passages that speak of judgment and the afterlife. The calligraphy is skillfully integrated into the design, with the size of the letters appearing larger at the top and smaller at the bottom to create a uniform look to the viewer. ⪢ Mumtaz Mahal's Tomb: Contrary to the typical Mughal tradition, the tomb of Mumtaz Mahal is placed at the center of the Taj Mahal complex, whereas the tomb of Shah Jahan is later added next to hers. This departure from tradition highlights the extraordinary importance Shah Jahan placed on his beloved wife's memory. ⪢ Black Taj Mahal Myth: There is a popular myth that Shah Jahan planned to build a black marble Taj Mahal as his own tomb, located on the opposite bank of the Yamuna River. However, this claim lacks credible historical evidence. It is likely a romanticized addition to the Taj Mahal's story, adding an element of tragedy and symmetry. No substantial remains or archaeological evidence of a "Black Taj" have been found. ⪢ A tourist phenomenon: The Taj Mahal attracts over 10 million visitors annually, with more than 1 million visitors coming from overseas. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. ⪢ A religious divide: Many people believe that the Taj Mahal was originally a Hindu temple, despite it being built by a Muslim emperor. It underscores India’s polarization between Hindus and Muslims, and at one point, a petition was filed seeking an inquiry from a fact-finding panel into the “real history” of the monument. The petitioner also urged the opening of 22 sealed rooms inside the Taj for the possible presence of idols of Hindu gods inside. That being said, Islamic symbols adorn the inside of the mausoleum. Did you know them all? Let us know in the comments, or indeed if there are any other interesting facts you think we should add! Read on for details on how to get there, opening times and ticket prices, our experience rating, and our YouTube video! Tickets & Opening Hours for the Taj Mahal ⪢ Ticket Prices ● Foreign Visitors: ₹1300 ● Citizens of SAARC: ₹650 ● BIMSTEC countries: ₹650 ● Children under 15: Free ● Additional charges: ₹200 for camera fee / ₹50 for video camera fee Prices are correct at the time of writing (July 2025). Please check the official website  below for the most up-to-date information. All prices are in Indian Rupees. Convert your currency here . ⪢ Buy Tickets to the Taj Mahal Save time and avoid the hassle of waiting in line with express entrance tickets to the Taj Mahal. Marvel at this world-famous masterpiece in Agra and explore every corner at your own pace. 🎟️ Book your tickets here ⪢ Opening Hours Open daily from sunrise to sunset (typically 6 am to 7 pm, but exact times vary seasonally). Closed on Fridays for prayers at the mosque within the complex. How to Get to the Taj Mahal, Agra The Taj Mahal, one of the world’s most iconic monuments, is located on the southern bank of the Yamuna River in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India. By Train The nearest major railway station is Agra Cantt (Agra Cantonment), well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Varanasi. From Agra Cantt, the Taj Mahal is about 5 km away and easily reachable by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or cycle-rickshaw. By Air The closest airport is Kheria Airport (Agra Airport), located approximately 13 km from the Taj Mahal. Limited domestic flights connect Agra with cities like Delhi and Mumbai. From the airport, taxis or hotel transfers are the best way to reach the monument. By Road Agra is accessible by road via national highways from Delhi (about a 3–4 hour drive), Jaipur, and other major cities. Private taxis, rental cars, and buses serve Agra. Local transport options from Agra city center include taxis, auto-rickshaws, and cycle-rickshaws to the Taj Mahal entrance. By Bus State-run and private buses connect Agra with neighboring cities. Once in Agra, local transport or taxis are available to reach the Taj Mahal. 💡 Once at the Taj Mahal complex, electric carts and horse-drawn carriages can help you navigate the expansive grounds, which is especially useful for those with mobility issues. ⪢ Contact Information for the Taj Mahal ● Address: Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, India ● Email: info@tajmahal.gov.in ● Phone: +91 562-2226431 (10 am to 5 pm) ● Web: tajmahal.gov.in Where to Stay Near the Taj Mahal Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Agra hotel deals below to find great rates from top providers in the city. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. Best Time to Visit ● Early morning (sunrise) is the most magical time to visit, offering cooler temperatures, softer light, and fewer crowds. ● Late afternoon (3 pm to sunset) provides beautiful golden light for photography and a less crowded experience. ● Winter months (November to February) are ideal due to pleasant weather and clear skies. ● Avoid midday heat (10 am to 3 pm) and the monsoon season (July to September), when heavy rains may disrupt your visit. Important Tips for Visiting the Taj Mahal Before you visit the Taj Mahal, here are some essential things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and respectful experience: ⪢ Dress Conservatively While there is no strict dress code, it is advised to dress modestly and respectfully when visiting this iconic monument. ⪢ Ticket Policies ● Tickets bought online are non-transferable and non-refundable. ● E-ticket cancellations are not permitted. ● Tickets are booked in morning or afternoon time slots and are valid for 3 hours from entry. ⪢ Opening Hours & Access ● The Taj Mahal is open from sunrise to sunset and closed on Fridays for Islamic prayers. ● Entry gates close 30 minutes before the official closing time. ⪢ Identification & Security ● Visitors must present a photo ID (passport, driver's license, or identity card) at entry. ● All visitors are searched thoroughly, and strict restrictions apply to what you can bring inside. ⪢ Prohibited Items ● Food and drinks are not allowed inside the monument. ● Dangerous or inflammable items such as lighters and power banks are banned. ● Selfie sticks with tripods are prohibited, and only one camera/device per person or group is allowed. ● Bags larger than a small purse must be stored in lockers provided at the entrance. ⪢ Inside the Mausoleum If you plan to enter the mausoleum, you will be required to wear shoe covers, which are provided near the entrance opposite the library building. Watch Leon Explore the Taj Mahal on YouTube Watch Leon's full Taj Mahal experience on our YouTube channel, Jenn and Leon. With Jenn still bedridden, Leon heads to the Taj with our fellow YouTubers Jackson and Marjo at 5 am to see the sunrise, despite still feeling ill himself. Sadly, the sunrise did not materialize due to the weather, but regardless, this monument is still as spectacular as ever. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like  and subscribe ! Your support is truly invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content possible from around the world. Our Experience Rating: Taj Mahal What is there to critique about a wonder of the world? Certainly not much, if anything at all. This is certainly one of the most spectacular places one can ever visit and simply must be on any India tour or bucket list. Our time here in Agra was deeply affected by our gastro issues, though, which does take the gloss off a bit, especially as Jenn was unable to go at all. Thankfully, in our world of photos and videos, she was able to see it, at the very least, through Leon's eyes. And even with such misfortune, she was still able to catch a glimpse from the top of our hotel, too, which, in the end, is far better than nothing. FAQ – Taj Mahal Travel Guide What is the best time to visit the Taj Mahal? The best time to visit is during the cooler months from October to March. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography and fewer crowds. How do I get to the Taj Mahal? Agra is well connected by train, bus, and road. The nearest airport is in Agra, and major cities like Delhi have frequent trains and buses to Agra. What are the Taj Mahal's opening hours? The Taj Mahal is open from sunrise to sunset, typically 6 am to 6:30 pm, except on Fridays when it is closed for prayers. How much is the entrance fee? Entrance fees vary: for foreign tourists, it’s around 1300 INR; for Indian citizens, the fee is significantly lower. Children under 15 usually enter for free. Can I hire a guide at the Taj Mahal? Yes, official guides are available at the entrance or through pre-booking. Hiring a guide is highly recommended to understand the history and architecture. Are there any restrictions inside the Taj Mahal? Large bags, tripods, food, and smoking are prohibited. Security checks are conducted at entry. How long should I spend visiting the Taj Mahal? Most visitors spend 2 to 3 hours exploring the monument and gardens. Can I visit the Taj Mahal at night? Night visits are allowed during full moon nights and two days before and after. Tickets must be booked in advance. What else can I see near the Taj Mahal? Nearby attractions include Agra Fort, Mehtab Bagh (a garden with Taj views), and the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj). Is it possible to see the Taj Mahal from a rooftop hotel? Yes, several hotels offer rooftop views of the Taj Mahal, perfect for sunrise or sunset photos. Coming up: Taking the bus from Agra to an incredible homestay in the heart of Jaipur With Jenn sadly missing a visit to the Taj Mahal in Agra due to stomach issues (travelers' diarrhea), we then had to embark on a FIVE-HOUR bus ride to get to Jaipur. We share the experience and some information on Indian bus travel, along with the process of buying the bus tickets and where to get them. We will then review the incredible All Seasons Homestay, our first-ever stay in this type of accommodation. Even with our bowel struggles, we try to make the best of it! This was one of our favorite places in all of our India travels, and we are sure you will agree! Travel Resources

Easily our worst experience in India, the Sindhi Camp Bus Stand will haunt us for many years to come. The most chaotic of situations led us to missing our bus and having to substitute it with a very dilapidated Grab for a SEVEN-HOUR drive from Jaipur to Udaipur in Rajasthan. We left the Sindhi Camp Bus Stand with our shoes and luggage covered in muck, our heads banging from the noise, and our moods thoroughly dampened from missing our bus. It was impossible to find or to find anyone to help, and we were now faced with getting a Grab instead. No chance of finding another bus online, and even if there was, there was no way in hell we were going back to that bus stand! This is our experience, which starts with a super cool sari draping before it all goes wrong! In This Post... ● Sari Draping ● Getting Tickets ● Sindhi Bus Stand ● Our $170 Grab ● Countryside Shock See More... ● Watch on YouTube ● Where to Stay in Jaipur ● FAQ ● Travel Resources Jenn & Marjo's Sari Draping First of all, t hank you for stopping by, and a warm welcome to our India series here on the Jenn & Leon Travel Blog. We had always wanted to visit this country, officially the 7th oldest in the world , and not only was the time finally upon us, but it came with our good friends and fellow YouTubers Jackson & Marjo ! If you missed our earlier posts and would like to catch up, head over to our dedicated India Guide or look out for the links in this blog. From Jenn's perspective: One of the things I knew I wanted to experience while in India was a traditional saree draping. Having known only a little about the cultural associations with the color, styles, etc., I was looking forward to learning more. While the experience that we chose left me with more questions than answers, and not having the pleasure of choosing from different colors, patterns, and styles, the little we did learn was enjoyable. The time and care that is taken to dress and fasten the sari is incredible, right down to the last fold! I’m not usually one to dress in bright colors or have an overly feminine style, but the instant this material and method were draped upon me, I felt an instant pulling back of my shoulders. My head was held up a little higher. It felt like getting ready for your wedding day, and many women dress this way daily! I definitely would encourage you to add this to your itinerary and make some time to get dressed up, take some photos, and possibly head out for a night on the town while in India! 🎟️ Book your Sari Draping tickets Getting Tickets With Red Bus Booking tickets for trains and buses in India is available online for foreigners and can be done while out of the country. There are several websites offering this, with the best being those provided by Red Bus and IRTC (Indian Railway Catering & Tourism Corporation). As far as pros go, the ability to book online is about as far as it goes for us. Everything about our experience with these companies was poor, from the usability of the website to the confirmation of where to go. Let's go through why that is, so hopefully your journey with them does not end up in disaster like ours! To start, one of the things you must do as a foreigner with IRTC is to register yourself on their platform, which is very buggy, to say the least. Uploading IDs was tricky, and they seem to require quite a few details about you, enough to make us question why! Once signed up, finding the correct bus is pretty straightforward until you come to pay. One thing to be sure of in India is that seeing a 'Mastercard' or 'Visa' logo does not always mean it will be accepted. We use Curve, an online card that has worked all over the world, yet here it did not. After much kerfuffle, we managed to push the payment through, but it was not easy. After completing this process, you will be sent a confirmation email and tickets. All good then, right? Well, we thought so, feeling nice and organized, and dare we say even galvanized after our first train experience on the Vande Bharat Express went so well. But they do say not to count your chickens until they have hatched, and it is an expression that works very well here. Little did we know, but the tickets would not be worth the energy it took to even send the email! ⚠️ Avoid the IRTC online chaos and book your tickets with 12Go, our transport partners (wish we had worked with them before this!). 👇 Sindhi Camp Bus Stand, Jaipur: An Absolute Nightmare With our bus scheduled to leave at 5 am, we did not exactly have much margin for error when it came to finding the bus in the morning. The information on the ticket was simply 'Sindhi Camp Bus Stand.' After checking it out on Google, it all seemed pretty legit: a large bus station that was just a short rickshaw ride from our homestay. Nonetheless, we asked our hotel for more information, and they told us that this was the place to go. Having already taken a bus from Agra to Jaipur, we were prepared for the pickup point to be a tad unassuming; the last spot was a small hut that we never would have guessed but for a knowledgeable rickshaw driver. This time around, we were going to a proper bus station (or so we thought). What greeted us was one of our lowest points in all of India. A place of chaos and, dare we say it, filth, this so-called transport hub is the last place anyone should be at 4:30 am. It was awful. Honestly. Bustling morning scene at Sindi Bus Stand in Jaipur, located under a highway, with vehicles in motion and people navigating the busy area. We did not film much at all, as our time here quickly descended into farce. Getting dropped off was the only part that went to plan, as we got there around 40 minutes before the bus was due to depart. We thought it would be as simple as asking someone, a guard or a bus driver, but little did we know that our ticket would mean nothing here. The first thing to say about this 'bus stand' is that it goes way beyond the parking lot that bears its name. Buses and coaches are actually everywhere on the road too, lining the underpass, accompanied by hundreds of rickshaws and taxis all tooting horns and nipping into any free space on the road. The acoustics reverberate around this underpass, and honking is a staple custom of any vehicle operator in India. It does not stop . EVER. We started by asking one 'guard' where to go, showing him our ticket. "Go straight down there, leave the station, and walk 100 meters and then to the left," he says. So off we go, actually believing that this could be trusted. But it was wrong, along with the 4 other spots we were suggested to wait by people who looked like they had some semblance of understanding of the chaos all around us. Walking around on these 'streets' with roller suitcases and flip-flops is not something we would advise anyone who reads this to do. Most of the walkways are broken and full of trip hazards, dirt, and trash. It must have rained because the ground was wet, sludgy, and smelly. Many of the coaches were just left running, and along with the hundreds of cars and tuk-tuks, the air was thick with exhaust fumes. This was accompanied by the stale smell of trash, urine, and feces that was also present and evident anytime we even looked at a wall or corner of a building. Just trying to cross the road was playing with fire. It was hard to breathe or even concentrate as we frantically tried to locate this damn bus before 5 am. It didn't happen. We did try calling the 'helplines,' indeed several of them, but no one seemed to have any clue as to how to locate the bus. The operator is supposed to send a text message to customers with the pickup point at least 12 hours before the journey is scheduled. However, as foreigners, when we booked our tickets, we did not have an Indian phone number, which happens to be the only way they can message. Not that they tell you this online before you book the tickets, of course. Surely they can do better than this?? So, without this number, the people on the phone washed their hands of it. We had as much back-and-forth with them on the phone as we did with the people who kept sending us traipsing around this station. We were on our own, and the longer we stood here within this disorganized mess, the worse it was going to get. By this point in our tale, we had been walking around in circles for nearly 45 minutes, dragging ourselves and our luggage through the dirt and the rain that was now starting to fall. We (we were with Jackson & Marjo too) could barely hear ourselves through the honking, which just reverberated around the steel underpass like a percussion instrument going off deep inside your ear. We had very persistent beggars coming up to us, people staring, and others trying to coax us into taxis and rickshaws. 5 am, no bus, no coffee, surrounded by madness. All we could do was get back to the peace and safety of our homestay as soon as possible. We love to travel, and we can handle mishaps, but this was pushing us way past our limits. Our $170 Grab Experience From Jaipur to Udaipur We were all so very relieved to get back to the homestay. It was still quiet, and we knew we had time to reassess, given our checkout was not until 11 am. We had a few possibilities on the table, from staying another night to booking another bus or getting a Grab. The Grab option seemed to be the most suitable given what we had just been through. None of us wanted to set foot near the Sindhi Camp station again, and so this was all we had. Fortunately, we were splitting the bill. One of the bonuses about travelling as two couples! We contemplated waiting but eventually decided to just order the taxi and get going. We knew we had a long drive ahead of us. Given we had already experienced a fair few packed cars and rickshaws owing to our luggage, Jenn was sure to order a 6-seater bucket-seat passenger van so we could be as comfortable as possible. But again, as with much of India, this did not exactly work out either! The car itself was not as described. At all. It was more like a 5-seat saloon and was as rough on the outside as it was on the inside. Three in the back, tightly packed with some very uncomfortable seats; one in the front with some kind of fluid dripping from the glove box; and a driver who spent most of the drive trying to keep himself awake by watching YouTube. Yes, YouTube in his lap... and it was not even our channel! Just kidding, but seriously, given the state of India's highways and the incredibly dangerous driving habits of road users, we were not feeling too happy as we set off from the All Seasons . With most of us still feeling fragile from our gastro issues, barring Jenn, we were all nodding on and off for most of the journey. It seemed like the best way to get through it, and we were all devoid of energy, given the lack of food we had eaten in the past week. Sadly for Jenn, she is not easily able to sleep in vehicles, and so she had to endure the reckless driving of our Grab more than any one of us. She was sitting just behind him, watching him drift off or look down at his phone. It was very unnerving, even if he did breeze through herds of cows like he had been doing it his whole life. We had been warned about dodgy drivers, so we were naturally paranoid (when we weren't sleeping). Not just Jenn, but we all felt it. The guy seemed off. But given we had no other way to get to Udaipur, we had to suck it up. Despite the lack of comfort and safety considerations from the driver, we did see an upside, though, in that at the very least we could get a closer look at the Indian countryside and smaller towns. We love this kind of thing, and it is a good way to see what we would most likely never do. And we were shocked by what we saw. Shocked by India's rural countryside India is often described as a rich country with poor people. The statistics certainly support this claim, and in India's case, they are quite extraordinary. In 2023, India surpassed China to become the most populous country in the world, with over 1.4 billion people. At the same time, it has grown to be the world’s fourth-largest economy, valued at over $4 trillion. However, it is surprising that India ranks a troubling 139th globally in terms of GDP per capita. Despite having over 5,000 years of history, making it one of the oldest nations with a structured government, and possessing wealth that surpasses the dreams of many, India has significantly failed to meet the needs of its people. We are seasoned travelers, and we have visited many countries with the 'developing' title to their name. We certainly aren't ones to judge the poverty of one place over another, but honestly, what we saw in India shocked us to the core. It literally felt like we were walking around in a post-war world. In the nearly 8 hours it took to get to Udaipur, we can barely remember seeing a building that was not abandoned or in the process of crumbling to the ground. The air was a constant orange haze, and with no sidewalks to speak of, swirls of dust and dirt were all that stood between roads, highways, houses, and stalls. Where there had been rain, it all became a muddy mess, and on top of that, there was more garbage on the streets than anywhere we had ever seen. And some (with no exaggeration). It was like there were mini-landfills on street corners, coupled with random piles of rubble and, oddly, bricks, all over the place. Mounds of orange bricks often accompanied derelict or crumbling places, but these piles showed their age, as if they had been placed long ago. Homelessness seemed rampant, and the scene just seemed all so apocalyptic. This seemed like a landscape lacking in hope, devoid of any kind of prosperity. There are many reasons for this, easily found with a couple of Google searches. Corruption, lack of education, lack of local governance, overpopulation, and political turmoil. The list goes on. Even colonialism can be put in there. All of it has contributed to the current status quo. We just could not help but think just how bad it is, though. It almost felt like a hundred years behind what we see in Europe or the Americas . It might all sound a little harsh, but we saw it all and felt it all with an extremely heavy heart and almost anger. How on earth has it gotten to this? 14 of the top 20 most polluted cities in the world are in India. 39 in the top 50. This is a shambles, a failure of governance, and a failure of people and leaders who should be doing far more for the citizens they are supposed to protect and serve. Basic roads, infrastructure, and facilities are the job of the government, and India is failing. 7 hours of driving and not a single public restroom, or indeed even a proper service station. Just in general, there seems like so little being done here. We barely noticed construction of any sort, and it all just looks so bleak. With all the fanfare of holding the G20 and with some of the highest poll ratings of any sitting PM, India's Narendra Modi does seem to be making progress. We can only hope so, because what we saw from a country with such size and power should be an outrage. We hope India will get to grips with things soon. The people deserve no less from their leaders. Watch it All Unfold on YouTube See a more personal version of our experience over on YouTube! We show you more of the car and the journey, along with a sneak peek of our final destination, Dreamyard Udaipur. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like  and subscribe ! Your support is truly invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content possible from around the world. Where to Stay in Jaipur Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Jaipur hotel deals below to find great rates from top providers in the city. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. FAQ – Bus Travel Nightmare: Jaipur to Udaipur What went wrong on your bus trip from Jaipur to Udaipur? We were given no instructions on where the bus would be, and no one at the chaotic Sindhi Bus Stand knew either. We spent 45 minutes frantically searching around one of the most chaotic places we have ever encountered, not to mention 30 minutes on the phone with Red Bus. In the end, we admitted defeat and went back to our homestay. How long should the bus trip normally take? Typically, the trip takes about 6 to 7 hours, depending on the bus type and traffic conditions. What bus companies operate between Jaipur and Udaipur? Several operators run this route, including government and private services like RSRTC and various private coach lines. How can I avoid a bad bus experience on this route? Book reputable operators with good reviews, like 12Go. Opt for AC Volvo coaches if possible, and confirm departure times in advance. 🎟️ Book tickets here Are there alternative ways to travel from Jaipur to Udaipur? Yes, you can travel by train , hire a private taxi, or take a domestic flight from Jaipur to Udaipur. Is night bus travel recommended between Jaipur and Udaipur? Night buses can save time but may be less comfortable and pose safety concerns, so research carefully before booking. How should I prepare for a long bus journey in India? Bring snacks, water, a neck pillow, and entertainment, and dress comfortably. Keep valuables secure and stay alert. What should I do if a bus breaks down or gets delayed? Contact the bus company, seek help from station staff, and consider alternative travel arrangements if needed. Are tickets easy to book for this route? Tickets are available online and at bus stations, but confirm the operator’s reliability and schedule. Would you recommend bus travel between Jaipur and Udaipur? Given variable experiences, it can be a budget option, but it comes with risks. Alternatives may offer better comfort and reliability. Coming up: Dreamyard Hostel, our first EVER hostel experience in the City of Lakes, Udaipur We have always been apprehensive when it comes to hostels. More so a Leon thing than a Jenn thing, and as such, we had never tried one. So many travelers do, though, and they are far more affordable and come with much more than just a cheap price. Another great advantage is the social one, and here at the Dreamyard Hostel, we found that for sure. Scenic rooftop terrace at Dreamyard Hostel Udaipur, offering stunning views of the cityscape and surrounding mountains against a clear blue sky. We had a wonderful time at Dreamyard Hostel Udaipur, especially since we booked a private room with our own bathroom! For our first hostel experience, it was fantastic. We met some great people, enjoyed fun game nights, and had awesome conversations. The atmosphere was quirky and cool, and we really loved it. Some of our best nights were spent here! Welcome to our full review of Dreamyard Hostel Udaipur—everything you need to know. Travel Resources

The All Seasons Homestay is a warmly furnished guesthouse offering home-cooked meals, a garden, and roof terraces with a 360 view of Jaipur. It is located in a quiet area and is a great place to relax and unwind or to use as a base for exploring the Pink City. Jaipur is known as "The Pink City" in India , due to the dominant color scheme of its buildings. In 1876, Maharaja Ram Singh had most of the buildings painted pink—the color of hospitality—in preparation for a visit by Britain's Queen Victoria. The tradition of painting buildings pink has continued ever since, and today, Jaipur is a vibrant and colorful city that is well worth a visit. It has become a popular tourist destination, and we think the All Seasons Homestay is both an attractive and affordable spot that you shouldn't miss out on! Read on to find out why! In This Post... ● Bus From Agra to Jaipur   ● Our Highlights ● The Food ● The Room ● How to Get There See More... ● Watch on YouTube ● Our Experience Ratings ● FAQ ● Travel Resources Getting to All Seasons Homestay The bus journey from Agra to Jaipur was a challenging one. We had been very excited to get there and explore the local area but ended up spending most of our time in our room. And when Leon could eventually get away from the bathroom, it was to search for a pharmacy. Unfortunately, Jenn even missed visiting the Taj Mahal in Agra. All due to traveler’s diarrhea ( see our last post ). Leon had it too, but he had recovered enough to make the Taj (thankfully). Missing out on a wonder of the world was tough enough, but then we also had a five-hour bus ride to Jaipur to tackle. In the video below, we share our experience with Indian bus travel and the ticket purchasing process. We hope you enjoy the video, and don’t forget to subscribe to follow more of our adventures! Book your travel tickets 👇 Our All Seasons Homestay Review We were most looking forward to the All Seasons Homestay, given its growing reputation and excellent location in Jaipur. We have not visited many homestays either, so we were certainly excited about trying something new, too. Lush greenery and charming outdoor seating create a serene retreat at All Seasons Homestay in Jaipur, offering a perfect blend of comfort and nature. Sadly for us, we were not able to exactly enjoy this homestay, or even Jaipur itself, owing to bad cases of travelers' diarrhea, which seemed to hit its peak the moment we showed up. So much so that when we arrived, we could barely even check in, as we were so desperate for a bathroom! We missed our arrival tour and spent virtually all of our first night and day in our room. We did try to have a bite to eat, but with everything going on, we weren't that hungry. Rooftop view at All Seasons Homestay in Jaipur, featuring a beautifully lit terrace garden against the backdrop of the city's skyline at dusk. After collecting medication and spending a good period recuperating, we were finally able to get out of the room and check this place out. What a wonderful place it is, too! Themed on the six seasons of India, each floor and room is named and decorated according to which season it represents. India has a wide range of climates and weather patterns due to its geographic size and varied topography. The year is divided into six seasons of two-month duration each. These seasons are Vasant Ritu (Spring), Grishma Ritu (Summer), Varsha Ritu (Monsoon), Sharad Ritu (Autumn), Hemant Ritu (Pre-Winter) and Shishir Ritu (Winter). The concept is really neat, and the owners have done an exceptional job of conveying this with a unique blend of traditional and modern motifs and decorations. Everything feels very local here; Rajasthani designs and paintings adorn the walls and ceilings with such color and style. Even with a dampened enthusiasm given our issues, we were impressed and felt very much at home. The charming interior of All Seasons Homestay in Jaipur features intricately designed stairs, decorative ceiling artwork, and a welcoming reception area with cultural accents. Every floor seems to have something interesting, be it colored glass windows or cool paintings and sitting areas. There are so many picturesque opportunities here, and it would have been a great place for a photo shoot. We had kind of planned that, although it did not happen in the end, as we spent most of our time in our room. Now all we can do is imagine what could have been! Cozy and vibrant sitting area at All Seasons Homestay in Jaipur, featuring colorful stained glass windows, artistic decor, and traditional furnishings. Given that we already had a couple of accommodations not exactly live up to their billing, we were hoping that this one would hit the mark when it came to all of our parameters, such as cleaning, facilities, location, value-for-money, etc. We are pleased to say it did! Rated as a 3-star, we would go as far as to say that it deserves at least one more star than that. Let's dig a little deeper to find out why... ⪢ The Location A key selling point here is the excellent location in Jaipur. If you are here for some sightseeing, Jaipur sits in the famous Golden Triangle, and the All Seasons Homestay sits basically in the middle of the top sights in the Pink City. Sadly, we were unable to even start our itinerary in Jaipur and devastatingly missed out on all of the attractions here. Nonetheless, here is a list of places we would have visited and how close they are to All Seasons Homestay by car/rickshaw: ● Amber Fort - 4 minutes ● Hawa Mahal Palace - 20 minutes ● Jaigarh Fort - 45 minutes ● Nahargarh Fort - 45 minutes ● Gaitore Jaipur - 20 minutes ⪢ The Cost At CAD 42 per night, the All Seasons Homestay is a steal in our opinion! Given its convenient location, beautiful furnishings, and on-site kitchen, it has everything you could need and is very affordable. This is an excellent 3-star accommodation that could easily be a 4-star and is one of the best value hotels in the area. 👉 Book All Seasons Homestay here Jenn, wearing a sari, admires the artistic decor at All Seasons Homestay in Jaipur. ⪢ Rooftop Terraces All Seasons Homestay boasts no less than three terraces, each with its own appeal. The first terrace has lovely seating areas for chilling and relaxing, the second a gym, a foosball table, and a library, and the third, a beautiful panoramic view of the city. Again, we had booked this homestay with these terraces in mind, and we were fully expecting to enjoy them with our friends Jackson and Marjo! It was another disappointing aspect of our time in Jaipur, only getting to enjoy these spaces in a fleeting moment before rushing back to the bathroom. They are all very nicely put together, though, and it is a shame we never got to play games and enjoy the evenings here. But we are sure you will, should you book this homestay! ⪢ Inside All Seasons Homestay There are plenty of 'wow' moments to be had inside the homestay. This feels like India! Beautifully and carefully decorated with local and regional traditions in mind, each floor is colorful and vibrant from wall to ceiling. We enjoyed exploring it, and we have to note that it was spotlessly clean too. With so much to look at across five floors, it is worth spending time here for the decor alone! ⪢ The Front Gardens & Security Located at the front of the property, the well-manicured garden still feels very private owing to a wall topped with some beautiful trellis. Lush and green, with places to sit and admire the plants and greenery, it certainly does not feel like you are in a city when you step inside. It is lovely and quiet too! A really good space to relax and unwind for sure. Lush garden view at All Seasons Homestay Jaipur, showcasing vibrant plants and elegant outdoor seating ideal for relaxation. The entrance is gated, and there is a guardhouse here, although we never saw one. That being said, the concierge is manned 24 hours, and we believe the front gate is locked after 11 pm. It does feel very secure here, and there is also a local police station nearby for good measure. The Food at All Seasons Homestay With a beautiful kitchen and dining area and a very attentive cooking staff, we know that the dining experience here would have been traditional, homely, and delicious! Unfortunately, we were unable to try much at all, as we were only just beginning to get our appetite back and were sticking to basic foods that we could only hope would not bring on yet more excruciating stomach pains. Simple and comforting breakfast at All Seasons Homestay in Jaipur: crispy pakoras, grilled sandwiches with a side of chips, and dips, tailored to suit sensitive stomachs. The staff was well aware of our issues and was understanding, allowing us to eat in the comfort of our room and preparing some basic foods with the hope we would be able to digest them okay! It is with great sadness that we could not enjoy dining downstairs, where we would have really been able to immerse ourselves in the homestay-style eating that All Seasons has made a USP of their establishment. One of our unique selling points is our home-cooked meals. Our kitchen prepares fresh and delicious dishes, offering a taste of authentic Rajasthani cuisine. Experience the flavors and aromas of home-cooked food made with love and care, providing a truly fulfilling dining experience. Traditional Indian meal at All Seasons Homestay Jaipur featuring rice, roasted papad, fresh cucumber and tomato slices, and a cup of Jaipur Dairy yogurt. These two simple photos are all the food we ate between us in the three days we spent here. They may seem fairly unassuming, but they were still good, as far as basic foods go. There was no menu as such, and the kitchen is open to preparing requests along with traditional dishes and suggestions. We hope you get to enjoy the full complement of meals here and would love to hear of your experience! The Room at All Seasons Homestay Our room was on the second floor and was very comfortable. We spent most of our time in it, as you may have gathered by now! Nice and spacious, it had all we needed. Mostly a good bed and strong WiFi, so we could work or watch movies while we focused on recovering. Cozy and elegantly decorated bedroom at All Seasons Homestay in Jaipur, featuring traditional patterns and modern comforts for a perfect retreat. The bed was firm but nice, and we had plenty of pillows, which we always like to have. There is also a small wardrobe and a TV in this main room, but no mini-fridge or kettle. This can be found on each floor as a communal kitchen, which is fully furnished and also has a basic complement of tea and coffee, which is a nice touch. There is also a microwave, which we always like to have for heating food and coffee. Cozy room at All Seasons Homestay in Jaipur, featuring modern amenities with a TV, comfortable seating, and stylish decor. The bathroom is truly lovely, and we especially appreciated the stone edges along the floor. The marble-style tiles and pastel colors created a natural ambiance that reminded us of open-air bathrooms in Bali . Complimentary shower gel and shampoo are provided, along with a hairdryer, which is always a nice touch—we try to avoid bringing our own to save space and weight in our luggage. Additionally, the hot water and water pressure are excellent, which is a great bonus (you can’t always count on this in India). How to Get to All Seasons Homestay Jaipur All Seasons Homestay is situated in Jaipur, offering convenient access to the city’s rich heritage and vibrant markets. By Taxi or Ride-Hailing From Jaipur International Airport (JAI), the homestay is approximately a 30-minute drive (around 15 km). Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Ola and Uber are widely available and reliable in Jaipur. Booking a taxi or car in advance is recommended for a hassle-free arrival. By Train The nearest railway station is Jaipur Junction, which is well connected to major cities across India. From the station, it’s about a 20-minute taxi or auto-rickshaw ride to the homestay. By Public Transport Jaipur has a network of buses, but they may not be convenient for travelers with luggage. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are preferred for door-to-door transport. ⪢ Contact Information ● Address: 63, Hathroi Fort, Hari Kishan Somani Marg, Behind Vidhayakpuri Police Station, Ajmer Road, Jaipur 302001, Rajasthan, India ● Email: ranjana@allseasonshomestayjaipur.com ranjanagoel9@gmail.com Contact Numbers: Bina Goel: +91-98291-61369 Ranjana Goel: +91-94603-87055 Dinesh Goel: +91-94140-41553 Landline: +91-141-2369443 ● Web: allseasonshomestayjaipur.com ● Instagram: @allseasonshomestay ● Facebook: @allseasonshomestay 👉 Book All Seasons Homestay here Watch Our All Seasons Homestay Tour on YouTube In this video, we do a full tour of the homestay, introduce you to the manager, and do it all while Jenn is wearing a fabulous traditional sari! If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like  and subscribe ! Your support is truly invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content possible from around the world. Our Experience Ratings: All Seasons Homestay Even without being able to take full advantage of all the All Seasons Homestay has to offer, we are still rating this accommodation 5 stars! Based on what we experienced, we doubt you will get much better bang for your buck than this. A great homestay with lovely people; you will be missing out if you do not try it! 👉 Book your stay here Cleanliness Excellent standards all around, with daily cleaning evident and the communal areas kept just as spotless as the rooms. Everything felt new and well-maintained, with great pride and care being taken in this regard. Cost & Value For CAD 42 a night, you get above and beyond in terms of the facilities and conditions here. Sure, you can find cheaper places, perhaps in the hostel category, but we would recommend All Seasons Homestay based on its location and traditional style. Food & Drink: N/A Sadly, we do not have much to go on, and we are unable to make a comment on the home-cooked meals that so many of the patrons here rave about. What we did eat was okay, but it was specifically made to be easy on the tummy and was fairly bland and, dare we say it, boring. But we were victims of circumstance, and we cannot judge this category because of that! Location Location is a great asset of this homestay, as it is neatly nestled in a quiet area and really benefits from an ambience of peace not often found in major cities like Jaipur. It is easy to pick up a rickshaw or taxi, and with most of the city attractions between 20 and 40 minutes away, it is an excellent spot to launch a sightseeing tour from. Service The staff here made a conscious effort to accommodate us and made us feel welcome. We only wish we could have spent more time in their company, which we no doubt would have had we been able to enjoy the communal dining and living spaces. The service here was exceptional throughout, and we appreciated the kindness and warmth we received, especially given our circumstances. Easy full marks here! Coming up: Jenn & Marjo go for a Sari Draping in Jaipur, and our journey to Udaipur almost becomes a disaster We were both still feeling pretty unwell when we made it to the All Seasons Homestay. Most grateful for the medication we found and our comfortable surroundings, it made for a great place to recover. By the end of our stay, we were feeling much better, although very sad that we were unable to explore Jaipur at all. Jenn, elegantly dressed in a beautifully patterned sari, stands in an ornate room with vintage decor and stained glass accents. It was a sad predicament to be in, as honestly, we do not know if we will ever make it back to the Pink City. We had not seen anything but the inside of our room and a short tour of the building, and we felt like we needed at least something to stand for our time here. Cue a sari draping session, something that Jenn was keen on doing before we even came to India. So off Jenn and Marjo went, with Leon as the cameraman! Jenn and Marjo, in traditional attire, share a joyful moment on a beautifully crafted wooden couch, set against the backdrop of a quaint, book-filled library room. The following day, we had a long bus ride pre-booked to Udaipur. We were more worried about our tummies the day before, but little did we know that was to be the least of our concerns. With it leaving at 5 am, we had been scheduled for pickupfrom the Sindhi Camp Bus Stand, which turned out to be one of the worst experiences we have ever had on our travels. FAQ – All Seasons Homestay Jaipur Review Where is All Seasons Homestay located in Jaipur? All Seasons Homestay is located in the center of the city, offering convenient access to Jaipur’s main attractions. What type of accommodation does All Seasons Homestay offer? It provides comfortable rooms with homely amenities, ideal for travelers looking for a cozy and authentic stay experience. How was the cleanliness and hygiene at the homestay? The homestay maintains good cleanliness standards, with regular housekeeping and attention to guest comfort. Is breakfast included with the stay? Yes, All Seasons Homestay offers a complimentary breakfast featuring local and continental options. How was the hospitality and service? Hosts are friendly and helpful, often providing local tips and assistance to enhance your Jaipur visit. Is the homestay suitable for families and solo travelers? Yes, the environment is welcoming for both families and solo travelers seeking a peaceful stay. Are there any notable amenities or features? Amenities include Wi-Fi, air conditioning, parking, and a garden area for relaxation. How is the value for money? All Seasons Homestay offers great value, combining comfort and affordability in a central location. Can I book directly or only through online platforms? Booking is available through popular travel websites and directly via contact with the homestay. Would you recommend All Seasons Homestay for a Jaipur visit? Yes, it’s a good choice for travelers looking for a home-like atmosphere with easy access to the city’s attractions. Travel Resources

With a history that stretches back over 50 years, Lucky Guesthouse is aptly named, as it is the only one of its kind that has a rooftop view. It was built before planning rules came into effect, stating that no building can be as tall as the great Taj. It is one of the most affordable hotels in Agra and is perfectly positioned with the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort within walking distance. Not just lucky, this guesthouse is just a five-minute rickshaw ride away from the Taj Mahal itself. It is located opposite a local police station and also in the heart of a street market, which has plenty of stores, restaurants, and amenities. It is the perfect spot to stay if you are planning to visit the Taj and is also very local, giving you a real taste of Indian culture. Read on for our review of the Lucky Guesthouse, including the food, our room, how to find it, and booking details. In This Post... ● Drama Along the Way... ● Our Review ● The Food ● The Room ● India Travel Tip See More... ● How to Get There ● Watch on YouTube ● Our Experience Ratings ● FAQ ● Travel Resources Drama Along the Way... After running the gauntlet of taxi hawkers outside Agra Cantt Train Station ( see last post ), we were grateful to finally see our ride pull up on the side of the road. That being said, when we saw the size of the car, we knew we would have a bit of a problem! It was a standard hatchback, and so luggage was going to be a struggle. However, ironically, we had encountered this issue when we left our hotel in Delhi , so we were ready to pack ourselves in like sardines again! The biggest challenge with this taxi was that there was what looked like a gas tank in the trunk. So big that we could only fit one item in it, that being Jenn’s carry-on suitcase. With none of us willing to wait any longer after all of the hassle we experienced already, in we went, with luggage piled so high on our laps we were amazed the driver even agreed. By this point in our journey in India , we had already realized that conventional travel is just not the norm here. Things are just different, standards are different, and expectations should be thrown right out the window! Even though we could barely move in the car, we were just glad to be on our way. Or so we thought... Lucky Guesthouse in Agra, located next to the Lucky Petha Store. So, despite being charged for the full trip to our destination (120 rupees), the roads in and around Lucky Guesthouse just so happened to be closed for maintenance (not that we saw any). With our driver unable to communicate much in English, we could not understand much of what was going on. We gingerly made it out of the vehicle, at which point a rickshaw driver came up to us and explained the situation. Rickshaws were thankfully being allowed through, and after his price went from 400 rupees to 100 rupees in a matter of seconds, we accepted his ride. So off we went, all four of us in the rickshaw with our luggage again on our laps, for the final leg of what was a super-long and draining travel day. Our Lucky Guesthouse Review ⪢ The Perfect Agra hotel for the Taj Mahal & Agra Fort Lucky Restaurant and Guesthouse is a solid budget accommodation option for tourists visiting the Taj Mahal and other historical sites in Agra. The hotel offers a variety of clean and comfortable rooms with air conditioning, television, and private bathroom facilities. As mentioned in the name, there is also a restaurant, offering several different dining options with a view of the Taj, alongside room service. The main reception of Lucky Guesthouse features its rooftop restaurant with a scenic view of the Taj Mahal. Located opposite the guest building, it offers a welcoming entrance for visitors on the bustling street. The rooftop view is spectacular, as you can imagine, although it is only a small space. It is also caged, as there are monkeys in the nearby trees that can easily jump over. The staircase leading up to it is nicely decorated, and in general, it felt very neat and clean. A breathtaking view of the Taj Mahal at dusk from the rooftop of the Lucky Guesthouse, framed by lush greenery and vibrant neighborhood rooftops. A point of note is that the hotel building is actually across the road from the concierge and restaurant building (that also houses the rooftop view). This was not made overtly clear when we booked and was a tad confusing at first. Nonetheless, it was still a positive experience. The service throughout our stay was very positive in general. As with much of what we encountered in India, the staff here seemed ready and willing to go above and beyond and were super friendly. We cannot fault them. ⪢ The Location As already mentioned, Lucky Guesthouse is only a short 5-minute rickshaw ride from the West Gate of the Taj Mahal. You can walk it in 20 minutes, too. It is also just a 6-minute drive away from the Agra Fort. The location in and around the hotel, sadly, leaves a lot to be desired, though. The road outside was pretty chaotic, even with the cars missing due to the traffic restriction. With so many rickshaws and scooters, it is hard to imagine cars on it anyway! It was fairly tight, very dusty, dirty, and of course, accompanied by the constant sound of honking. 24/7 honking. Nonstop! The area itself is very impoverished, and we saw lots of stray dogs, garbage, sewage, and even dead rats at almost every turn. Several people were sleeping in doorways close to the hotel, too. At first, it felt intimidating and overwhelming, although after we settled down in the hotel and had our first shower in 4 days, we felt much better (more on why that was here ). If you would like to see more of the surrounding area of the hotel, check out our walking tour video . As you will see from the video, our initial reservations about the area were quickly put to rest in this short walk. Sure, the area is very rundown and dirty, but once you look past that, you will find that people are super friendly and welcoming. Within a few minutes, Leon felt super comfortable, even if his stomach (like Jenn's) was going hammer and tongs when this video was filmed. ⪢ The Cost The cost per night here at the Lucky Restaurant and Guesthouse was just 27 Canadian dollars (20 USD / 1600 rupees). This is a solid 3-star accommodation, and the price is excellent given its proximity to the Taj Mahal. There are other popular spots in Agra too, and it is a great place to base from, in our opinion, with access to rickshaws and taxis super easy (when the road is not closed). From what we saw, the guesthouse offers some of the most affordable rates in Agra. The Food at Lucky Restaurant We only tried the Paneer Makhani and Special Thali from the menu, which we had delivered to our room. Both meals were excellent, and we thoroughly enjoyed them! Tasty and well-cooked, we cannot fault it. We wish we could rave about the other options, too, but our happiness with the food was, unfortunately, to be short-lived. A vibrant and inviting Indian thali is served at Lucky Guesthouse, featuring an array of dishes including creamy curries, freshly made rotis, crispy papad, and aromatic basmati rice on a bright yellow tablecloth. Sadly, disaster struck in the evening, a few hours after we had eaten. We were both struck down with severe stomach pains and the worst diarrhea either of us had ever experienced. It was a gastro problem that knocked us both out for the rest of our time in India. We were forced to cut our trip short, as it affected us so badly. So much so that what we ate here was pretty much the last full meal we ate in the country! It is hard to pinpoint whether it was the food here or not, which did seem to be cooked well. Jackson had already been sick prior and has still yet to recover, so we suspect the problem may have originated in Delhi and manifested itself here. Either way, it stopped us from enjoying the rooftop, Jenn from seeing the Taj, and all of us from exploring the surrounding area. The need for a bathroom was chronic. We want to stress that the food here was good and that gastro issues are fairly common for first-time travelers in India . The obvious reason is poor food hygiene, although we did not see any evidence that this was the case here. It is said that the heavy use of Indian spices is the main cause, as our stomachs are not used to them. Either way, it was horrible, and we advise high caution where food (and water) is concerned. Try to start small and work your way up to the more local dishes, be careful where you eat, and be sure to bring plenty of vitamins, Imodium, and packet foods if you can. ⪢ The Menu at Lucky Restaurant, Agra The options on the menu at Lucky Restaurant are a mixture of Chinese , Indian, Pakistani, and Italian cuisine. There are plenty of drinks to choose from, too. The prices are very reasonable, and had we not gotten sick, we most certainly would have tried some of the other options! Swipe right →. ⚠️ Please note that prices and options shown are at the time of writing and subject to change at any time. Contact the restaurant directly for the most up-to-date information. The Room at Lucky Guesthouse Our room was on the second floor of the hotel building, with a lovely open-top seating area just outside. We booked the double-bed couple room, and it was exactly as described online on booking.com . The same can also be said of Jackson & Marjo's room. For any hotel, the key things for us are good air conditioning, a comfortable bed, good internet, and for everything to be cleaned to an acceptable standard. We are pleased to say that Lucky Guesthouse achieves all of these parameters to great effect, and we were very pleased with the room. Our only critique would be a lack of extra pillows for the bed, but on the other hand, we can have no complaints at all. There are several room options to choose from, as shown on the graphic below. You can find all the contact information you need further down in this post, or tap here . The rooms are nicely decorated and modern, although they are a tad small. The bathrooms are clean, and the hot water works well. Some basics, such as shower gel, shampoo, tea, and coffee, are provided, and there is also a large TV. Storage space is a little limited but manageable. The soundproofing is also okay, although we did still have to use our fan app to drown out the honking on the street, which never really stops! India Travel Tip ⪢ Consider Taking a Tour with GetYourGuide One of the most popular ways to explore India is by guided tour. Skip the line for the Taj Mahal, tour cities like Mumbai and Delhi, or enjoy the wonderful sights in Udaipur and Jaipur. No matter where your travels take you, GetYourGuide offers the best way to connect with your destination. 🎟️  Book your tickets here How to Get to Lucky Restaurant & Guesthouse, Agra Lucky Restaurant & Guesthouse is conveniently located in Agra, offering easy access to the Taj Mahal and other local attractions. By Taxi or Auto-Rickshaw From Agra Cantt Railway Station, it’s about a 10-minute drive (approximately 3 km) to the guesthouse. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available outside the station; always negotiate or ensure the meter is used. From Kheria Airport (Agra Airport), the guesthouse is roughly a 30-minute drive, depending on traffic. By Local Transport Local buses run throughout Agra, but they may be crowded and less convenient for tourists. Auto-rickshaws are a popular and affordable choice for short distances around the city. On Foot If you’re staying nearby or visiting the Taj Mahal first, the guesthouse may be within walking distance, depending on your location. ⪢ Contact Information for Lucky Guesthouse ● Address: Chowk Thana, 3/8, Kinari Bazar, Kaserat Bazar, Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, India ● Email: beluckywithlucky@gmail.com ● Phone: +91 93596 69192 ● Web: heylink.me/luckyguesthouse ● IG: @luckyguesthouseagra   ● FB: @luckyrestaurantandguesthouse ⪢ Book Your Stay at Lucky Guesthouse 🎟️ Make your reservation here ⪢ Not Convinced? Easily Find Hotels Nearby Use our interactive map to easily locate the top hotels nearby, sourced from a variety of reputable platforms such as Booking, Vrbo, Expedia, Agoda, and Hotels.com. Watch on YouTube: Walking the streets of AGRA? Our first time in India! Is it safe to walk in the back areas as a foreigner in India? What is it really like in India? We show you around Agra, Uttar Pradesh, in this walking tour travel vlog. Watch to find out our experience walking solo in the surrounding area of our hotel, Lucky Guest House, in Agra, India. We enjoyed some epic Indian food: thali and kadai chicken, yum! See our rooftop view of the Taj Mahal as well! If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like  and subscribe ! Your support is truly invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content possible from around the world. Our Experience Ratings: Lucky Restaurant & Guesthouse This was a tough one to rate, as the hotel itself is great. We had no issues with it at all. Good internet, clean, excellent service, and good food. What is not to like? Especially for such an incredibly good price. The downside is, honestly, the awful state of the surrounding area, which is not within the control of the guesthouse. As was the case with our gastro issues, which we most likely picked up in Delhi. We may not always remember our experience fondly for those reasons, but if we picture ourselves inside our room or looking out to the Taj Mahal from the rooftop, we highly recommend Lucky Guesthouse! Cleanliness Absolutely no issues at all. Everything was very clean and sanitized, and the bathroom was in good order. It was clear that every effort was made to help us feel comfortable, and we were really happy with it. Cost & Value What can we say for 27 USD per night?! This hotel is fantastic value, and dare we say we could have easily paid 40-50 USD and still felt that it was worth it. It does not get much better than this. Food & Drink Despite all of our now well-documented issues, we cannot take anything away from the one meal we did enjoy here. Both of them were super tasty, and the portions were also a great size for the cost. There is so much to choose from, too, including vegetarian options. We deeply regret not being able to try even more and would love to hear from you if you do so yourself! Location This is our only issue with Lucky Guesthouse. The proximity to the major sights of Agra is, of course, fantastic, but even with that considered, the neighborhood is in such a state that it makes it hard to consider the location a positive. There is so much happening outside, with stray dogs, open sewers, crazy traffic, rotting garbage, rodents, and homelessness. It is very overwhelming, and even though this is no fault of the hotel, it is something that we cannot disregard. The only slight bonus is that there is a police station almost directly opposite, which offers some comfort of security. Even still, we would not recommend being out after dark here. Service The crowning glory of Lucky Guesthouse is the excellent service. The staff went out of their way to accommodate us, especially when it came to our regular requests for toilet paper! We went through a lot given our situation. They honestly tried so hard, and we were most impressed. We are sure you will be too! FAQ – Taj Mahal Agra Rooftop Hotel Which rooftop hotels in Agra offer views of the Taj Mahal? Lucky Guesthouse is the only hotel offering a rooftop view, owing to its height and restrictions on building in the area. How can I book a room with a Taj Mahal rooftop view? The rooms at Lucky Guesthouse do not have a direct view. The rooftop view is located in the reception building opposite, which is also the location of the hotel restaurant. Are hotels near the Taj Mahal expensive? Prices vary widely depending on the hotel’s category, amenities, and view quality. Some affordable options offer partial views, while luxury hotels provide full panoramic views. What amenities do rooftop hotels near the Taj Mahal typically offer? Common amenities include rooftop restaurants or bars, pools, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and guided tour assistance. Is it safe to stay in hotels near the Taj Mahal? Yes, reputable hotels maintain good safety and security standards, but always check recent reviews before booking. Can I see the Taj Mahal at sunrise from the Lucky Guesthouse? Yes, the hotel rooftop offers spectacular sunrise views of the Taj Mahal, which is a popular reason for booking these accommodations. Are hotels noisy due to their location near the Taj Mahal? Noise levels vary. Hotels on quieter streets tend to offer a more peaceful stay, but proximity to busy roads or tourist areas might mean some noise. Do hotels provide guided tours or transportation to the Taj Mahal? Many hotels offer tour packages, taxi services, or shuttle arrangements to the Taj Mahal and other local attractions. How far is the Lucky Guesthouse from the Taj Mahal entrance? Lucky Guesthouse is within walking distance from the Taj Mahal’s main entrance, around 25-30 minutes. A rickshaw ride takes about 5 minutes. Are there any special tips for choosing the best hotel near the Taj Mahal? Look for verified guest photos, read recent reviews about the view and service, and confirm details when booking. Up Next: The Taj Mahal Despite the severe stomach problems, Leon still just about made it to see the world's most famous mausoleum. Sadly, Jenn was unable to leave the hotel, which was way worse, but the show had to go on! So Leon went with Jackson and Marjo. Unfortunately, the misfortune continued, with our 6 am plan for the famous Taj sunrise being laid to waste by rain clouds! Luckily, the rain only kicked in as we were leaving. What do they say? With every cloud comes a silver lining?! Travel Resources

In what was our first train ride as foreigners in India, we took the Vande Bharat Express directly to Agra from Delhi. In this post, we will show you what the train was like, how we got tickets, what to do at both stations, and other things you may need to know. Thank you for stopping by, and a warm welcome to our India series here on Jenn & Leon Travel Blog. We spent 2 weeks touring 5 cities across the north of the country. Traveling between cities was one of our biggest concerns, and indeed, we had plenty of drama along the way on that front. Thankfully, this particular trip, between Delhi and Agra on the Vande Bharat Express, was the best and most uneventful one! In This Post... ● How to Book Tickets ● Additional Tips ● Where to Stay in Delhi ● Delhi Train Station ● Included in Our Ticket See More... ● The Train station in Agra ● Where to Stay in Agra ● Watch on YouTube ● Our Experience Rating ● FAQ ● Travel Resources How to Book Tickets for the Vande Bharat Express The booking process can be pretty overwhelming, as the IRTC website is not very user-friendly for first-timers like we were. There are so many stations, trains, and options, and the interface is complex and, dare we say it, very dated. That being said, it is functional and does work, but there are some important steps to take for this to go smoothly. ⪢ How to Navigate the Indian Railways Website 1. Create a User Account You can do this by clicking on the "Create New User Account" link on the homepage. You will need to provide your name, email address, and a password. 2. Verify Your User Account Once you have created an account, you will need to verify it by clicking on the link in the confirmation email that is sent to you. 3. Log in to Your Account and Select Your Journey Details Enter the origin and destination stations, the date of travel, and the number of passengers. Important: Once you have registered, you must click trains, and then 'tickets for foreigners'. If you go directly to the search, you will not be able to book the tickets. 4. Select the Train & Class of Travel There are different types of trains available in India, including express trains, passenger trains, and mail trains. The class of travel determines the level of comfort and amenities that you will have on the train. Be sure to choose the A/C car for the best comfort. 5. Enter Your Passenger Details You will need to provide the name, age, and gender of each passenger. 6. Make the Payment You can make the payment using a credit or debit card, or through net banking (some foreign cards are not accepted; ideally, use a credit card). 7. Receive Your e-tickets Once the payment is successful, you will receive your e-tickets via email. You can print out your e-tickets or show them on your mobile device at the time of travel. Additional Tips for Booking Train Tickets in India as a Foreigner: ⪢ Book Your Tickets in Advance Trains in India can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel times. It is advisable to book your tickets at least a few weeks in advance, especially if you are traveling during the holidays. ⪢ Be Aware of the Different Types of Trains There are different types of trains available in India , each with its own set of amenities and features. Make sure to choose the type of train that is right for you and your budget. ⪢ Choose the Right Class of Travel Indian Railways offers a diverse range of travel classes to cater to different budgets and comfort preferences. Here's a breakdown of the most common ones: Air-Conditioned Classes ⪢ First Class AC (1A) ● This is the most luxurious class, offering private cabins with 2 or 4 berths. ● Provides maximum privacy and comfort. ● Generally, the most expensive option. ⪢ Second AC (2A) ● Offers air-conditioned coaches with two-tier berths. ● Provides a good balance of comfort and affordability. ● Curtains provide some privacy. ⪢ Third AC (3A) ● Features air-conditioned coaches with three-tier berths.   ● A more budget-friendly AC option. ● More crowded than 1A and 2A. ⪢ AC 3-Tier Economy (3E) ● This is a newer, more affordable AC option with more berths than the standard 3A. ⪢ AC Chair Car (CC) ● Designed for daytime travel, with comfortable, reclining seats. ● Common on shorter routes. ⪢ Executive Class (EC) ● A premium chair car option with wider seats and more legroom. ● Found on select trains like the Shatabdi Express. ⪢ Executive Anubhuti (EA) This is a very premium chair car experience found on some Shatabdi Express trains, with aircraft-like amenities. Non-Air-Conditioned Classes ⪢ Sleeper Class (SL) ● The most common and economical class for long-distance travel. ● Non-air-conditioned coaches with three-tier berths. ● Can be crowded. ⪢ Second Sitting (2S) ● Non-air-conditioned seating for shorter journeys. ● A very budget-friendly option. ⪢ Unreserved (UR) ● The most basic and cheapest class. ● No reserved seats, so it can be very crowded. ⪢ Be Prepared for Crowds Indian trains can be very crowded, especially during peak travel times. Be prepared to deal with crowds when you are traveling by train in India. ⪢ Have Your e-tickets Ready. You will need to show your e-tickets at the time of travel. Make sure to have them ready at the checkpoint. Read on for more on what was included in our ticket, what to do at the respective train stations, and our overall experience rating. Where to Stay in New Delhi Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse New Delhi hotel deals below to find great rates from top providers in the city. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. The Train Station in Delhi (Hazrat Nizamuddin) We took a taxi to the station from our hotel, and it was relatively easy, bar some traffic and the usual incessant drone of horns. The station itself is a little rundown on the outside, and many homeless people seem to be living along the sides of the road leading up to it. We were dropped off at the front, just past them, but it was really sad to see. The bustling entrance of Hazrat Nizamuddin railway station in Delhi, with the Indian national flag waving proudly, and passengers making their way inside. There is no wheelchair access here, so you do have to carry your luggage up some stairs before making it to the ticket counter area. This is basically just a large empty space, where many people were hanging out, sleeping, and waiting. Passengers line up at the Delhi train station ticket counters, navigating organized queues under bright signage and information boards. It seemed strange that there were no chairs or anything, and this practice of being on the floor turned out to be quite common in most areas of the station. We wanted to check in at the desk to make sure we were in the right place and to confirm our platform. Travelers gather and rest in the bustling waiting area of Delhi train station, surrounded by luggage and anticipation for their journeys ahead. It was very easy to get to, pretty much just a direct route straight from the entrance, heading over the tracks. Even though the station is a little rundown, it is indeed well organized, and there are plenty of signs, in English too, to help you along the way. Jenn pauses with her luggage at the bustling Delhi train station, surrounded by vibrant advertisements and directional signs. There are several snack stalls on the platforms, so you can grab a drink or a quick bite while you wait. We got there pretty early, and we were grateful this was here, as we were very thirsty! A snack stall at Delhi Train Station offers a variety of chips, bottled water, and snacks to travelers on the platform. As we were in the 2nd-class A/C car, we needed to head nearer to the end of the platform to wait. There is no shade from the sun there, though, so we decided to wait in the middle area of the platform, which, of course, happened to be the busier part too. If you look above, you will find that there are digital signs that indicate the numbers of each car as and when the train arrives, so keep an eye out for those so you can identify where you need to be. What Was Included in Our Ticket We booked the A/C car, and that is what we got; it was wonderfully cool and a nice break from the heat outside. It was one below the highest class, but worth it. The seats were comfortable, there was overhead storage, and there were bathrooms too (an Asian and Western toilet). It was perhaps not the cleanest of trains, but certainly manageable. When you are booking the tickets, you will be asked for your preference of vegetarian/non-vegetarian options. We were not entirely sure what this was for on the IRTC website, as it did not make it clear that there would be food. As it happens, we were pleasantly surprised to have been given a really good variety of snacks! This also included water, apple juice, and ginger tea. You can see it all in more detail in our YouTube video . A delightful array of snacks is served aboard India's Vande Bharat Express, including juice, mathri, and a variety of accompaniments, all included with the ticket for a comfortable train journey. The interesting thing about this is that prior to the food being served, there were several staff members touring the coaches and offering chocolates and chips for 40 rupees each. This happened right at the beginning of the journey, and even though we knew we had selected our food preferences online, we did not know if that meant we were actually going to get food. So we did indulge and bought some, and it was very cheap in any case. However, it seems odd to us in hindsight that this happened, given that we were served all of what you see in the photo. It kind of feels a little scammy, and we had a fair few comments on our YouTube video deriding this! We only spent a dollar on them, so no harm done. Perhaps we should have just been more patient! The Train Station in Agra (Agra Cantt Station) Agra Cant is not the last station on this line, so if you are getting off here, be sure to pay attention to the train announcements, and be ready to disembark as the train will not wait here for too long (we say this as we thought it was the last stop and almost did not make it off the train!). This station is very much like Hazrat Nizamuddin, although perhaps not as big. It is pretty straightforward to find the exit, and there is no need to present your tickets on the way out. The most interesting point of note for this station was the monkeys —yes, monkeys! There were a fair few of them hanging around, mainly in the rafters. They did seem pretty harmless, although you can never be too sure. Do be careful with your belongings just in case! Passengers move through the bustling platforms of Agra Cantt Station, with trains ready for departure under the expansive steel canopy. While getting out of the station was easy, the hard part of this journey had only just begun. Once outside, it was crazy! Like moths to a flame, we were quickly and most annoyingly swarmed by taxi hawkers. It can be easy to exaggerate, but honestly, in all of our travels, we have never encountered anything at the level of what we experienced in Agra. Within what seemed like seconds, we were surrounded by at least a dozen people, all trying to push us into taxis and rickshaws. We could not get a moment to even talk to each other! It was a relentless bombardment, and they would not take no for an answer. Crowds gather under the afternoon sun outside Agra Cantt train station, creating a lively scene with people and vehicles navigating through the bustling area. We wanted to book an Uber, as we prefer the security and protection that the app gives. We appreciate that the taxi drivers just want to try and get business, but they would not even give us a second to breathe. Jenn was trying to locate a pickup point, and the whole time we were being harangued and hassled. It got to a point where we started getting a little angry, as even when we tried to move to a different spot, we were just being followed. It was all just too much, so we decided to just try and get out of the main station car park area and onto the main road. This was likely where the Uber would come, although it was still a tricky spot, as it was not very clear on the app. We had to wait a good ten minutes or so, all while ignoring our unwanted audience. Most of the hawkers had resigned to just standing close by and staring, which was fairly intimidating, to say the least! We could not wait to get out of there, away from this chaotic place! It may sound like we are moaning a little, but we appreciate that these guys are just trying to earn a living. But the way they are going about it is all wrong in our opinion! Swarming, harassing, and intimidating tactics that simply made us want to resist them as much as we could. This was one of those times that we were grateful to be a foursome. If it were just us two, it would have been super hard to fend them off. And we cannot even imagine how tough it would be for solo travelers! You have been warned... Where to Stay in Agra Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Agra hotel deals below to find great rates from top providers in the city. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. Watch Our YouTube Video to See the Inside of the Train Check out the inside of the train and more on the food in our YouTube video! We start the video from outside Hazrat Nizamuddin and show you where to go once you are there. We document the train journey, test the food, and also show you the Agra Cantt station. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like  and subscribe ! Your support truly is invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Our Experience Rating: Vande Bharat Express In comparison to using buses/coaches in India, the Vande Bharat Express has to be the smoothest process we encountered. Booking online was slightly complicated, but from there, everything is very straightforward. The train stations were fairly easy to navigate, and the train ride itself was super smooth. The complimentary food is a very nice touch, albeit not of the greatest quality. The train car was relatively clean and comfortable, which was the most important thing. Maybe more expensive than taking a bus, but a great option that is still very affordable. We highly recommend this method of transport in India! FAQ – Vande Bharat Express Delhi to Agra Guide What is the Vande Bharat Express? The Vande Bharat Express is India’s semi-high-speed train, offering fast, comfortable, and modern rail travel between major cities like Delhi and Agra. How long does the journey from Delhi to Agra take on the Vande Bharat Express? The journey typically takes around 3 to 3.5 hours, making it one of the fastest train options between the two cities. Where does the Vande Bharat Express depart from in Delhi? The train departs from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS). What facilities are available on the Vande Bharat Express? The train features air-conditioned coaches, onboard Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, bio-toilets, GPS-based passenger information systems, and catering services. How do I book tickets for the Vande Bharat Express? Tickets can be booked online through the Indian Railways website (IRCTC), mobile apps, or at railway stations. Are there different classes on the Vande Bharat Express? Yes, the train offers Executive Chair Car (premium seating) and AC Chair Car classes. How often does the Vande Bharat Express run between Delhi and Agra? The service typically runs daily, but check the current schedule, as timings may vary. Is the Vande Bharat Express safe and reliable? Yes, it is one of India’s safest and most reliable trains with modern safety features and punctual performance. Can I carry luggage on the Vande Bharat Express? Yes, passengers are allowed to carry personal luggage within prescribed limits. There are overhead racks and space under seats. What are the main stops between Delhi and Agra on this train? Stops may include key stations such as Mathura Junction, but some trains run direct; check your ticket details. Up Next: Drama in Agra: Great hotel, a very rundown area, Delhi belly, and Jenn missing the Taj Mahal For all of our excitement in going to visit one of the world's most famous monuments, there was a major problem that threatened not only our journey to see this wonder of the world but also our entire India adventure. Two words... Delhi Belly. With Jackson already sick, we seemed to be doing okay. That soon changed on the night we arrived in Agra, with both of us spending the entire evening on and off the toilet. With only a couple of days planned in Agra, it was a fight with our bodies just to be able to make it to this famous mausoleum. Sadly, Jenn could not make it, and our stomach issues ultimately ended up almost derailing our entire India trip. Indeed, we did end up cutting it in half. Travel Resources

The inspiration for the Taj Mahal, Humayun's Tomb in New Delhi, is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture and a must-see attraction in India! With our train to Agra scheduled to leave at 2.40 pm, we decided to visit Humayun's Tomb early in the morning, along with the famous Red Fort, and then get back to our hotel for noon check-out. Things did not go exactly according to plan, but we did make the Tomb, and it was a great experience. We found out that Humayun's Tomb was the inspiration for the great Taj Mahal , where we were headed in the afternoon. What were the chances! In what was to be our last stop in New Delhi, Humayun's Tomb turned out to be a real gem. Not just the main attraction, there is also Isa Khan's Tomb and Mosque and the wonderful gardens surrounding and connecting everything on the site. Gardens, which also happen to be the first-ever tomb gardens on the Indian subcontinent! In This Post... ● Our Highlights ● Isa Khan's Tomb ● Humayun's Tomb ● The History ● Interesting Facts See More... ● Entry Fee & Open Hours ● How to Get There ● Where to Stay ● Watch on YouTube ● Our Experience Rating ● FAQ ● Travel Resources Our Humayun's Tomb Highlights Before we get to the tomb, we first have to mention that Jackson had a pretty rough night of it before coming here. Much of the night was spent in the bathroom; he had caught (or eaten) something, causing severe stomach and intestinal pain. Even more challenging because of a lack of public bathrooms, he came with us to the tomb wearily. To be fair to him, he pulled on through and tried to make the most of it. We had planned to head to the famous Red Fort in Delhi afterwards, figuring we had enough time before check-out from our hotel. We had arrived at Humayun's Tomb for 9 am, but given the condition of Jackson, we did not stay long, and we went back to the hotel to try and catch some rest before the train ride to Agra. The entrance to the grounds has a small ticket office area where you can only pay cash for admission. We did feel it was a tad expensive at 600 rupees each, but having said that, it is not bad considering how much this site no doubt needs for maintenance. It is big! There is also a very small charge for cameras, 50 rupees, although there is no enforcement of this (so you can easily hide them in your bag). A bit of a sneaky money-grab there so do not be fooled! A pathway leading to the grand entrance of Humayun's Tomb, flanked by historic stone walls and lush greenery, captures the serenity and architectural elegance of this iconic site. Upon entering the tomb, you will be given a small token, which you will have to hand back on the way out. Try not to lose this! The main entrance is a direct path through well-manicured lawns, heading straight to the grand tomb. This was a walled tomb, so you will see that throughout the site if you cast your gaze outwards. It certainly adds to the history and allure, especially given how well-maintained they are. Initially, we were a tad confused, as the first thing you will see is Isa Khan's tomb, which branches off to the right. At first, we thought this was Humayun's Tomb itself, not realizing that this was just the first stop on the way. Fortunately, we investigated further and found the other tomb; we could have just as easily thought this was it and left after! Luckily, we had seen photos and knew there was more to it. So let's take a closer look at Isa Khan's tomb before we get to the star of the show! Isa Khan's Tomb, New Delhi, India Isa Khan's Tomb is a 16th-century mausoleum located in the Humayun's Tomb complex, built in 1547-48 for Isa Khan Niazi. He was a nobleman in the court of Sher Shah Suri, and his tomb is considered one of the finest examples of Indo-Islamic architecture. Exploring the historic beauty of Isa Khan's Tomb in Delhi, framed by ancient stonework and architectural elegance. The tomb is octagonal and built mainly of red sandstone. It is decorated with intricate carvings, lattice screens, and glazed tiles. The tomb is surrounded by a sunken garden, which was a popular architectural feature of the Lodi period. Isa Khan's Tomb is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Delhi . It is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit, and it offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of India . The tomb is also known as the "Asylum of Paradise" because of an inscription on its entrance. Isa Khan's Tomb, an exquisite example of early Mughal architecture, is set amidst lush greenery, showcasing its grand domes and detailed stone carvings under a clear blue sky. The sunken garden at Isa Khan's Tomb is one of the oldest in India, and it is thought to have inspired the gardens at the Taj Mahal and Akbar's Tomb. We did not know this until we made it on-site, having had a nice chat with one of the workers there (which you can check out in our YouTube video ). Given we were heading to the home of the Taj later, it was a pretty cool surprise! This tomb is indeed really peaceful and is certainly worth checking out if you have the time. It was an unexpected addition to the trip and comes as part of the admission price to Humayun's Tomb with no additional cost. Humayun's Tomb After we figured out where to go, we made our way to the main tomb of Humayun. It is a short five-minute walk from Isa Khan's tomb, nicely covered by trees for shade and surrounded by lush gardens. The entrance to the tomb has to be one of the most imposing and attractive entrances we have seen in India, with some beautiful stonework assisted by a tall arch and clay-colored blocks on the corners. Couldn't resist that Instagram shot walking through it! Visitors walk through the grand archway of Humayun's Tomb, showcasing the intricate Indo-Islamic architecture. Humayun's Tomb is beautiful, and the inspiration for the Taj can certainly be seen here. Missing just the minarets, the shape itself is very similar, although there is that clay-colored theme here as opposed to white marble. The surrounding gardens are nice, and there are multiple channels for water, coming in from each direction, converging into what we assume is a fountain at the center point. Unfortunately, there was no water, except for a few workers who seemed to be cleaning out the fountain pit. It would have been nice to see this operational, as we are sure it would have added even more serenity and beauty to this place. A magnificent view of Humayun's Tomb, showcasing its intricate Mughal architecture, with lush gardens in the foreground and the iconic dome rising majestically against the clear sky. It did not seem like there was access inside Humayun's Tomb like there is with the Taj Mahal. You can go up to the second level; however, it's quite a climb on some big steps. That puts you just beneath the entrance, as close as you can get to the distinctive dome, which stands tall over the site. It is really pretty, even more so up close. The architecture and design are flawless, and this structure gives so much more than just a photo opportunity. It is peaceful and calm, traditional and cultural. It holds so much heritage and value, and it is in places like these that you can learn and immerse yourself in the great culture of one of the world's oldest countries. After making our way back from the tomb, we were encountered by one of the biggest trains of schoolchildren we have ever seen! There could have easily been a thousand, all walking in a single file towards Humayun's Tomb. We could not believe it! Everyone was saying hello (or namaste), running up to us with high-fives, giggling, and laughing. It was almost surreal; the second moment we had felt like celebrities after our India Gate shenanigans. Jenn tried her best to give as many high-fives as possible! Even after we eventually made it to the exit, there were still coachloads of kids being dropped off. This must have been the largest number of kids we had ever seen in one place. They honestly just kept on coming! Thankfully, we made it to the tomb when we did, being able to enjoy the peace but also the lack of people there. It was practically empty! It seemed that everything just worked out perfectly. With that, we went back to the hotel for some rest before the train, very much hoping that our travels to Agra (and the Taj Mahal) would work out just as well. Read on for more on the history of Humayun's Tomb, some interesting facts about it, how to get there, and opening and ticket information. The History of Humayun's Tomb The construction of Humayun's Tomb was commissioned by Haji Begum, the widow of the Mughal Emperor Humayun. Humayun, the second Mughal emperor, died in 1556, and his tomb was built to honor his memory. The construction began in 1565 and was completed in 1572. It was designed by the Persian architect Mirak Mirza Ghiyas. Humayun's Tomb is considered a masterpiece of Mughal architecture and is one of the earliest examples of this style. The majestic architecture of Humayun's Tomb showcases its intricate red sandstone and white marble patterns, representing the grandeur of Mughal design against a clear blue sky. The tomb's design is inspired by Persian and Islamic architecture, and it is often seen as a precursor to the more famous Taj Mahal. The tomb is situated within a vast garden complex, which was designed in the Persian Charbagh (fourfold garden) style. The garden is divided into 36 squares by a grid of water channels and pathways, creating a serene and symmetrical environment. Over the centuries, Humayun's Tomb suffered from neglect and decay. In the 20th century, it underwent extensive restoration efforts, thanks to the work of the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, in partnership with the Archaeological Survey of India. The restoration work aimed to preserve and revitalize the monument, ensuring its continued existence as a historical and architectural gem. In 1993, Humayun's Tomb was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , along with other historic monuments in the area, collectively known as the "Humayun's Tomb Complex." This recognition has helped in the conservation and protection of the site. Humayun's Tomb holds cultural and historical significance not only as a Mughal monument but also for its role in influencing later Mughal architecture, particularly the design of the Taj Mahal. It symbolizes the rich heritage of the Mughal Empire and its contributions to India's architectural and cultural history. Some Humayun's Tomb Facts ⪢ Taj Mahal Influence Humayun's Tomb is often regarded as the precursor to the world-famous Taj Mahal. Its architectural design, including the use of white marble, symmetry, and the Persian Charbagh garden layout, served as an inspiration for the construction of the Taj Mahal in Agra by Emperor Shah Jahan, Humayun's great-great-grandson. ⪢ First Garden Tomb in the Indian Subcontinent Humayun's Tomb is considered the first garden tomb in the Indian subcontinent. The garden, designed in the Persian Charbagh style, was a departure from previous architectural traditions in the region and set a precedent for future Mughal garden-tomb complexes. ⪢ Double-Dome Architectural Innovation The tomb's architectural innovation includes the use of a double dome. This feature, with a smaller dome placed above the main one, enhances the aesthetics of the structure and significantly influences Mughal architecture. ⪢ Restored by the Aga Khan Trust The restoration of Humayun's Tomb in the 20th century was a significant project carried out by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture in collaboration with the Archaeological Survey of India. The restoration efforts were aimed at preserving the monument and its surrounding garden, and they have been highly successful in bringing back its original grandeur. ⪢ Resting Place of Several Mughal Royalty Besides Emperor Humayun, the tomb complex houses the graves of several other members of the Mughal royal family, including Empress Bega Begum (Haji Begum), who commissioned the tomb, as well as other princes and family members. The complex contains numerous cenotaphs representing various family members. ⪢ A Popular Attraction Humayun's Tomb has averaged over 600,000 visitors every year for well over a decade. In 2018, before Covid, it attracted nearly 1 million people, and that growth looks set to resume now that the pandemic is over. Read on for details on how to get there, opening times and ticket prices, our experience rating, and our YouTube video! Humayun's Tomb Entrance Fee & Opening Times ⪢ Entry Fee ● Indian Citizens: 40 ₹ ● Foreign Visitors:  600₹ ● Children up to 14 years: Free ● Filming/Camera Charge:  25 ₹ Prices are correct at the time of writing (July 2025). Please check the official website  below for the most up-to-date information. All prices are in Indian Rupees. Convert your currency here . ⪢ Opening Hours Monday to Sunday, 6 am to 6 pm. India Travel Tip: Consider Taking a Tour One of the most popular ways to explore India is by guided tour. Skip the line for the Taj Mahal, tour cities like Mumbai and Delhi, or enjoy the wonderful sights in Udaipur and Jaipur. No matter where your travels take you, GetYourGuide offers the best way to connect with your destination. 🎟️  Book your tickets here How to Get to Humayun's Tomb Humayun's Tomb is located in the southeastern part of Delhi, near the center of the city. Here's how you can get there from the central part of Delhi, such as Connaught Place: By Metro ● Nearest Metro Station: The nearest metro station to Humayun's Tomb is "JLN Stadium Metro Station," which is on the Violet Line of the Delhi Metro. ● From Connaught Place: You can reach JLN Stadium Metro Station from Connaught Place by taking the Violet Line. The nearest interchange station to Connaught Place is "Rajiv Chowk Metro Station" (also known as Connaught Place Metro Station), which connects to the Violet Line. Board a train going towards "Badarpur" on the Violet Line and alight at "JLN Stadium Metro Station." ● From JLN Stadium Metro Station: After getting off at JLN Stadium Metro Station, you can hire a local auto-rickshaw or take a short cab ride to Humayun's Tomb, which is approximately 2-3 kilometers away. It's a convenient way to reach the monument. By Bus Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses run through various parts of the city. You can check for a bus that has a route passing through India Gate or nearby locations. The area is well-connected by buses, although it is difficult to identify bus stops on the roads, so do bear that in mind. By Auto-Rickshaw You can also hire an auto-rickshaw to take you to Humayun's Tomb, and you will find one pretty much wherever you look on the road! Simply tell the driver to take you to the tomb, and they will know the way. Be sure to confirm the fare first. By Taxi You can book a taxi through ride-sharing apps like Uber or Ola or find a taxi at various taxi booths throughout the city. Alternatively, you can hire a traditional taxi from the street. We had an Uber pick us up outside to get back to our hotel. ⪢ Contact Information for Humayun's Tomb ● Address:  Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia Dargah, Mathura Rd, Nizamuddin, Nizamuddin East, New Delhi, Delhi 110013, India ● Phone: +91 11 2435 5275 Where to Stay in New Delhi Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse New Delhi hotel deals below to find great rates from top providers in the city. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. Watch Our Visit to Humayun's Tomb on YouTube See even more highlights from this must-see location in New Delhi over on our YouTube channel! In this video, we take you on a full tour of the Isa Khan's Garden Tomb, along with the tomb of Humayun, of course! If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like  and subscribe ! Your support truly is invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Our Experience Rating: Humayun's Tomb Much of our excursions in Asia have been at temples, so to see a tomb, especially on the same day we were heading to the incredible Taj Mahal, we were super happy. With all of the noise and chaotic traffic in Delhi, it was also really cool to be able to come into the Tomb gardens and experience quiet and calm. It was peaceful. Until, of course, the schoolkids on the way out! What a moment that was. Both tombs (Humayun & Isa Khan) are absolutely beautiful in their own right. While the Taj may be the one that gets the worldwide acclaim, it is easy to see why Humayun's was the inspiration. This is a classic piece of Indian history that is not to be missed! FAQ – Humayun’s Tomb Delhi Highlights & History What is Humayun’s Tomb? Humayun’s Tomb is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the tomb of the Mughal Emperor Humayun, built in the 16th century. It is a stunning example of Mughal architecture and a precursor to the Taj Mahal. Where is Humayun’s Tomb located? It’s located in South Delhi, close to the Nizamuddin area, easily accessible by metro and other public transport. What are the main architectural highlights of Humayun’s Tomb? The tomb features Persian-style gardens (charbagh), intricate red sandstone and white marble work, and a central dome surrounded by smaller domes and ornamental pavilions. When was Humayun’s Tomb built? Construction began in 1565 under the supervision of Queen Haji Begum, Humayun’s widow, and was completed around 1572. What is the historical significance of Humayun’s Tomb? It is the first garden tomb in the Indian subcontinent and influenced the design of later Mughal monuments, including the Taj Mahal. Are visitors allowed inside the tomb? Yes, visitors can explore the tomb’s interior, including the main chamber and surrounding gardens. What are the opening hours and entry fees? The site is open from 6 am to 6 pm daily. The entry fee is approximately 600 INR for foreign tourists and lower for Indian nationals. Is photography allowed at Humayun’s Tomb? Photography is allowed throughout the complex, but you must avoid using tripods or professional equipment without permission. Are guided tours available? Yes, guided tours are offered onsite, and many tour operators include Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi sightseeing packages. How much time should I allocate for a visit? Plan for 1.5 to 2 hours to fully appreciate the tomb, gardens, and nearby monuments like Isa Khan’s Tomb. Up Next: Taking the train from Delhi to Agra in India as a Foreigner In what was our first train ride as foreigners in India, we took the Vande Bharat Express First Class AC Chair Car directly to Agra from Delhi. In this post, we will show you what the train was like, how we got tickets, what to do at both stations, and other things you may need to know. Travel Resources

With our epic night at Dr. Zombie's behind us, we decided to take the morning easy at our hotel. A bit of video editing and blogging later, our day two in New Delhi was about to become really cool as we were heading to a very special light show at Akshardham Temple. With the famous Akshardham Temple Light Show starting at 7 pm, we left at 5, with our travel time expected to be under an hour. Little did we know, but owing to the shocking traffic congestion in Delhi, it took double that. We made it at 6.35 pm, but agonisingly five minutes past the last entry, and thus the night seemed over before it had begun. In this post, we will take you through our second full day in New Delhi . After our Akshardham Temple plan failed, we eventually decided on grabbing a rickshaw, which got us to the spectacular India Gate. The night was back on track! And what an experience it was; we genuinely felt like celebrities there, too. But why? In This Post... ● Akshardham Temple ● India Gate ● The History ● Interesting Facts ● How to Get There See More... ● Find Hotels in Delhi ● India Travel Tip ● Watch on YouTube ● Our Experience Rating ● FAQ ● KFC in New Delhi ● Travel Resources Akshardham Temple (Why We Were Refused Entry) Akshardham Temple, also known as the Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple, is a magnificent Hindu temple complex located in Delhi, India . It is one of the largest and most stunning temple complexes in the world, known for its intricate architecture, intricate carvings, and rich spiritual significance. It was built and inaugurated on November 6, 2005, and is dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan. The temple's architecture follows the ancient Vastu Shastra and Pancharatra Shastra, two traditional Indian architectural and sculptural principles. The central monument is made entirely of intricately carved, pink sandstone and white marble. The temple features more than 20,000 statues, carvings, and delicate designs that depict various aspects of Hinduism. The illuminated Akshardham Temple stands majestically in the twilight, overlooking a bustling parking lot filled with cars and evening activity. Akshardham Temple has received several awards for its architecture and cultural contributions, including the 2006 "Guinness World Record for the World's Largest Comprehensive Hindu Temple." Aside from admiring the temple, there are several activities to do here, and we were interested in checking out the Yagnapurush Kund, a large stepwell and musical fountain where a nightly cultural and musical show called the Sahaj Anand Water Show is performed. It is a multimedia presentation that tells a story from the life of Swaminarayan, and having not long ago seen the fabulous Spectra Light Show in Singapore , we wanted to try it. The Akshardham Temple in New Delhi glows majestically against a vibrant blue sky, showcasing its intricate architectural details and grandeur. Online, the show was advertised to start at 7 pm, and we were around 45 minutes away according to Google Maps. So we left at 5, feeling like we would have plenty of time. Even with the traffic? Well, no. Not at all. Our taxi felt like it was parked more than it was moving! It took us an age , and we only managed to arrive at 6.35 pm. This was significant, however, as the last entry is at 6.30 pm. We had no idea, as it did not say anything about that online. There was a lot of kerfuffle at the entrance, as many others were being turned away, too. We did try to get in, and perhaps some of the officials would have let us, but for just a few overzealous guards. Akshardham Temple is illuminated in the twilight, preparing for its enchanting nightly light show. Standing outside the main gate, with the honking and crowds of people, we were admittedly frustrated. This was our only chance to come here, and it was only 5 minutes! The temple looked amazing, too. While contemplating our next move, we were approached by a guy who was directing a lot of people but did not seem to work there or have a uniform on. He had heard that we were looking to get footage for YouTube and kindly showed us a service road just off the highway that we could walk to and get photos. Maybe even catch a glimpse of the light show. So we thanked him and headed in that direction. It was getting a little late, so we were apprehensive about losing the light, but we went with it anyway. If only to salvage a small consolation from a wasted trip. It was on this service road that we met some locals who wanted photos, something we were about to experience in abundance, and our rickshaw driver. He stopped by and, like many others, offered us a ride, and to his good credit, he seemed nice, and we happily obliged. We were out of options and did not fancy hanging around in the dark! It was he who suggested the India Gate, and so off we went! Getting to New Delhi's India Gate and Our Highlights When one opportunity is lost, another arises. Perhaps our mishap at Akshardham was meant to happen, to push us in the direction of the India Gate. Or maybe it's just that our rickshaw driver needed the cash. Who knows, but ultimately, we are more than happy it did. The India Gate sounded like somewhere we would usually go anyway! Nighttime tuk-tuk ride to India Gate, with colorful city lights and bustling traffic setting the scene. There was a slightly odd moment as we started our journey there by going past the entrance to Akshardham Temple. Stuck in inevitable traffic, the guy who told us about the service road was still there, and he called out to us. Oddly, he said not to trust our driver, that he is a liar, and to be very careful. Ominous indeed. Our driver was quick to emphasize that he was none of those things, and we need not worry. He promised us no tricks and that he would get us to the India Gate. To be honest, we did not take the words all that seriously, although now that we are writing about it, maybe we should have been more cautious here? Either way, it did work out fine. What would you have done? Would you have gotten out? With all respect to our driver, he operated the rickshaw safely and navigated the traffic with fewer of the hairy moments we had experienced already up to this point. Being the evening, there was not all too much to see, although we did go through a very nicely decorated tunnel. As lovers of street art, we enjoyed that part. Sure enough, not long after the said tunnel, we arrived at the west entrance to the India Gate. There was a small stand with what looked to be a security guard, but other than that, just barriers to stop vehicles and some people milling around. We paid our fare, which was exactly 400 rupees as agreed, and we think we left a small tip too. Our driver was cool, and had it not been for the words of the other guy, we would never have had reason to distrust him. The iconic India Gate is beautifully illuminated at night, with vibrant colors reflecting off the surrounding water, creating a mesmerizing and serene atmosphere. Coming up from the west gate led us to a beautifully colored fountain, which we duly stopped at for photos and YouTube intros. While we could only see the side of the India Gate, it all still looked pretty spectacular with the bright lights sparkling against the night sky. On the walk up, it did not actually seem all too busy, although by the monument itself, it was packed! We continued our walk around and shortly after made it to the north side of the gate. It was all nice, with carefully manicured grass, pathways, and great lighting everywhere. There were lots of people in this part, and we could instantly sense that there were not too many foreigners like us. This observation is important not only because we looked different, but also because we had cameras . So we stood out like a sore thumb (or beacon of light, whatever, haha). Jenn captures the stunning illuminated architecture of India Gate at night, surrounded by vibrant floral displays. From that moment on, we thought we had just become celebrities. Almost as close to what we can imagine being like a celebrity feels, anyway. As we got close to the foot of the India Gate, all four of us were being picked off by people asking us for photos. And in most cases, they take a photo with their other friends or family. Then, of course, more people were coming, and with every few paces we made after one 'photo shoot,' another would be requested! At one point, we had been taking so many that our backs had been to the monument for nearly an hour. Nearly an hour! We have experienced this kind of thing before in other countries, but never on this scale. Not even close! It was so much that it was almost exhausting! We did meet some nice people, and virtually all of the people wanted to follow and subscribe to our Instagram and YouTube . You can be sure that we would offer if they didn't ask already, though haha! Of all of the different people we came across, there were a couple of not-so-cool moments. On one occasion, a group of guys asked for a photo just with Jenn and proceeded to ask her to take her hat off and a few other weird things. Nothing lewd, but still a little strange given we had just met each other. Then there was another moment when Leon was pretty sure his pocket was felt when taking a photo with some other guys. Fortunately, everything was in his 'merse' (man-bag), but it could easily have been a testing situation. When in large crowds, if you are asked for photos, be sure to enjoy it. Why not! But do watch out for scams and distraction techniques. Keep your belongings safe from pickpockets! The important thing to note is that there were far more awesome moments than just those incidents, and the people here overall were some of the nicest we had met in India thus far. Everyone was genuinely interested in meeting us, although we have no idea what they do with these photos. Seriously, though, what do they do with them? We have never really been tagged or contacted by them afterwards, either. India Gate is illuminated with vibrant colors against the night sky, with a gathering of people enjoying the iconic landmark. What do you think? What happens with all of these photos? We have long speculated between us, but it gets tricky to explain when husbands and wives do it, sometimes asking for separate photos too. What the heck is going on there?! Regardless, we felt like celebrities walking through here. It was crazy how much attention we were getting. None more so than perhaps our best highlight at India Gate, in which Jenn turned around at one point and had a baby put into her arms. Yes, a baby! The family then asked for photos, even with just Jenn, the dad, and the baby. It was so interesting. Jenn poses for a photo with the baby, and presumably the dad, while mom looks on, and Marjo and Jackson giggle in the background! It was a touching moment, though, and it made us truly and deeply resonate even more with Closer Lives . This is exactly what we are talking about! Making connections around the world, bringing people closer together, and sharing our moments to inspire others. As we mingled with locals, took photos, and chatted away, we certainly felt like we had achieved that at the India Gate. Read on for more on the history of the India Gate, some interesting facts about it, how to get there, and our first KFC in India. Plus, get a sneak peek into what is coming up next in our series! The History of India Gate The India Gate is a prominent war memorial located in the heart of New Delhi. It was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, a British architect, as part of the larger architectural plan for New Delhi, which was then under British colonial rule. The foundation stone was laid in 1921, and the monument was completed in 1931. It was originally constructed as a memorial to honor the soldiers of the Indian Army who lost their lives during World War I. The names of over 13,000 servicemen are inscribed on the monument. These soldiers, hailing from various regions and communities in India, played a crucial role in the British war effort. In 1971, a structure known as the "Amar Jawan Jyoti" (the Flame of the Immortal Soldier) was added to the India Gate complex. It consists of an eternal flame that symbolizes the sacrifice of Indian soldiers in various wars, including World War I and subsequent conflicts. After India gained independence from British colonial rule in 1947, the India Gate continued to be a symbol of remembrance and a site for national ceremonies. It is now a place where India pays tribute to its soldiers who have sacrificed their lives in various wars and conflicts. Not only a symbol of military sacrifice but also a popular landmark in New Delhi, it is often visited by tourists and locals and is especially crowded during national holidays and events. Interesting Facts About India Gate The India Gate is an imposing, arch-shaped monument made of red and yellow sandstone. It stands at a height of 42 meters (138 feet) and bears the inscription: To the Dead of the Indian Armies who fell honoured in France and Flanders, Mesopotamia and Persia, East Africa, Gallipoli, and elsewhere in the Near and Far East, and in sacred memory also of those whose names are recorded and who fell in India or the North-West Frontier and during the Third Afghan War." The iconic India Gate is illuminated with vibrant tricolor lights, as a bustling crowd gathers to enjoy the lively atmosphere at night. Here are some other interesting facts about the India Gate: ⪢ Inspired by the Arc de Triomphe The India Gate's design was inspired by the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, France. Sir Edwin Lutyens, the architect, adapted the arch concept to create a distinct Indian monument. ⪢ Dedicated to Several Wars While originally dedicated to World War I, the India Gate now honors soldiers who have fallen in various wars and conflicts, including World War II and the wars with Pakistan and China. ⪢ Guarded by the IAF The India Gate is guarded by the Indian Armed Forces. Visitors can witness the impressive Tri-Services Guard of Honor ceremony, which is held daily. ⪢ A popular Tourist Spot The India Gate is surrounded by expansive lawns, making it a popular spot for picnics and gatherings. The lawns are often bustling with people enjoying the view and the pleasant atmosphere. It is beautifully illuminated at night, casting a radiant glow on the surrounding area. The lighting adds to its grandeur and makes it a popular spot for evening strolls. ⪢ Central Point The India Gate has become a central location for public events, celebrations, and protests. It has witnessed numerous important gatherings and demonstrations throughout Indian history. ⪢ Strategic Location The India Gate is strategically located in the heart of New Delhi, with Rajpath (the ceremonial boulevard) leading from it to the Rashtrapati Bhavan (Presidential Residence) and other government buildings. It is a focal point for numerous national events and ceremonies. Adjacent to the India Gate is the National War Memorial, inaugurated in 2019. This museum showcases artifacts and memorabilia related to the armed forces and their history in India. ⪢ Annual Republic Day Parade India Gate plays a central role in the annual Republic Day parade. The President of India pays homage to soldiers by laying a wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti, and the parade route passes through the arch. ⪢ One of the Most Visited Monuments in the World Before the COVID pandemic, visitor numbers hit over 20 million people per year. At least 60% of that number is said to be domestic tourism. It is one of the most visited monuments in the world. How to Get to India Gate The India Gate is located in the heart of New Delhi and is easily accessible from various parts of the city. If you're starting from the center of New Delhi, you can use different modes of transportation to get to India Gate. Here are a few options: By Metro The Delhi Metro is a convenient way to reach the India Gate. The nearest metro station to India Gate is the Central Secretariat Metro Station. You can take the metro from any part of Delhi and get off at this station. The India Gate is within walking distance from there. By Bus Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses run through various parts of the city. You can check for a bus that has a route passing through India Gate or nearby locations. The area is well-connected by buses, although it is difficult to identify bus stops on the roads, so do bear that in mind. By Auto-Rickshaw You can also hire an auto-rickshaw to take you to India Gate, and you will find one pretty much wherever you look on the road! Simply tell the driver to take you to "India Gate," and they will know the way. Be sure to confirm the fare first. By Tax You can book a taxi through ride-sharing apps like Uber or Ola or find a taxi at various taxi stands throughout the city. Alternatively, you can hire a traditional taxi from the street. ⪢ Contact Information for India Gate ● Address: Kartavya Path, India Gate, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, India ● Admission: Free ● Opening times: 24 hours, 7 days per week Where to Stay in New Delhi Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse New Delhi hotel deals below to find great rates from top providers in the city. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. India Travel Tip: Consider Taking a Tour One of the safest ways to explore India is with a guided tour with GetYourGuide. Skip the line for the Taj Mahal, tour cities like Mumbai and Delhi, or enjoy the wonderful sights in Udaipur and Jaipur. 🎟️  Book your tickets here Watch Our First Impressions of India on YouTube This is our first time visiting New Delhi, and the sights, smells, sounds, and energy of this city hit us like nowhere else on Earth. With a population of over 34 million, Delhi is massive, loud, and alive—and we’re diving right into the chaos and beauty. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like  and subscribe ! Your support is truly invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content possible from around the world! Our Experience Rating: India Gate While we had not planned to come to the India Gate, we are glad it worked out the way it did. Had we not gotten into the Akshardham Temple, it is unlikely we would have even visited it at all. Considering most of what we saw on the streets of Delhi, the first thing that stood out to us was how clean it was there. Super busy, even at a late hour, but very clean. So that was nice! The monument itself is as grand and spectacular as they come. It is inspiring to be there underneath the illuminated lights of India's flag colors, honoring the heroes of war who have helped forge India's history. We can see why it is so popular and why it was as busy as it was. The best part of being here was no doubt our experience with the locals, the interactions, the photos, and the warmth and kindness we received. While it can be tough in the heat and a tad testing being stopped every few minutes, it is a humbling experience to be sought out like we were. And that is for sure our enduring memory here, one that will long live in our memories in the Land of Festivals and Diversity. FAQ – India Gate at Night, Delhi What makes India Gate special at night? India Gate is beautifully illuminated after dark, creating a peaceful and photogenic atmosphere perfect for evening strolls and photography. Is India Gate open at night? Yes, the monument and surrounding lawns are accessible 24 hours, but security patrols are more frequent at night. Are there any safety concerns about visiting the India Gate at night? India Gate is generally safe at night, especially on weekends and holidays, but it’s best to visit in groups and stay in well-lit areas. What’s the best way to get to the India Gate at night? Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based rideshare services like Uber or Ola are convenient. Public transport options are reduced after hours. Are there any nearby places to eat or hang out after visiting the India Gate? Yes, Connaught Place and nearby Khan Market offer numerous dining and cafe options open late. Can I take photos at the India Gate at night? Absolutely. The lighting makes for stunning photos, especially of the monument’s architecture and the reflecting pools. Are there any events or ceremonies at India Gate in the evening? Occasionally, special events or light shows are held, especially on national holidays. Check local listings ahead of your visit. Is there parking available near the India Gate at night? Parking is limited, but some nearby lots and street parking options exist. Using ride services is often easier. What should I wear for a night visit to India Gate? Wear comfortable clothing suitable for the season. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket may be needed in winter months. How long should I spend at India Gate during a night visit? A relaxed visit of 30 minutes to 1 hour is sufficient to enjoy the ambiance and take photos. What KFC Looks Like in New Delhi We have not featured KFC in our blogs before, but it is a staple part of our travels, and we love to try it wherever we go. Before we started this travel journey, we had not realized just how different all of the fast food chains can be in other parts of the world. KFC is probably the most consistent, although in India, we did not recognize it much at all! The menu does have popcorn chicken and Zinger burgers, along with the typical fried chicken options. However, we must say that the chicken coating is not the KFC taste we are used to at all (not bad at all, though) and only comes in a 'crispy' option as standard. They did have a special promotion on skinless BBQ-style drumsticks, which were excellent. The wings are pretty much the same as everywhere else, though. There were some other notable differences, like the double-down burger, where there are no patties, and also chicken biriani, which makes total sense, being in India. We did get that, and it was spicy and spot on! The prices were about 30% cheaper than Western pricing, and everything we tried was good. We both agree that KFC India is perhaps not the best we have ever visited, but it is certainly a good one. 3 out of 5, only because there was no original KFC chicken! Coming Up: An Early Morning at Humayun's Tomb With the India Gate surprise excursion and full bellies from KFC, it was time to prepare for another travel day. Our next location was Agra, and we had pre-booked our first India train to get there. As our train was leaving in the afternoon, we knew we had time in the morning, and we decided to check out the beautiful Humayun's Tomb first. Sadly, Jackson fell ill overnight, with severe stomach pains and feelings of nausea. It is hard to say how or why he was sick, but we have to all give him huge credit for getting up for the Tomb visit and soldiering on through the train journey and getting to our next hotel. Travel Resources

Uncover the epic food and awesome vibe at the unique Dr. Zombie restaurant in New Delhi! In this review, we share our highlights, the wonderful food we tried, how to find Dr. Zombie's restaurant in New Delhi , our YouTube video , and our restaurant experience ratings! Tired and weary after a chaotic few hours getting to Connaught Place (where Dr. Zombie is), we (us and our friends Jackson & Marjo) were all feeling like we just wanted to sit down and relax. Our journey to this point had involved crossing a major intersection, fitting 6 in a rickshaw, being dropped off at the wrong spot , visiting an electronics store, and failing to find a SIM card . Not to mention the searing heat, encountering several (and in some cases, verbally aggressive) unfortunate beggars on the streets, and the endless honking that fills the air in New Delhi . When we decided on finding a place to sit, hopefully drink one (or three) nice cold beers, and grab some food, we did not know where to start. We did not exactly look it up anyway. We were in Connaught Place! There must be tons of restaurants and bars here! Sure enough, within just a few minutes, we happened across the bright green illumination of DR ZOMBIE, perhaps one of the most intriguing entrances and concepts we have seen on our travels. In This Post... ● Our Highlights ● The Food ● Food Menu   ● How to Get There ● Where to Stay See More... ● Travel Tip ● Watch on YouTube ● Our Experience Rating s ● FAQ ● Travel Resources Our Dr. Zombie Restaurant Highlights With more curiosity than hesitation, we all instantly knew that Dr. Zombie was where we wanted to go, so we signaled to the hostess at the entrance stand that we would like to head up. The stairwell was quite the spectacle, with what we assume to be keyhole shapes filled with white and green stuff. At the top of the stairs, we came to a big, heavy red door with large bolts and bars on a small window, complete with haphazard black tape streaking across it, feeling like something out of a crazy asylum movie. Yes, actually, we are in the right place . A place that lives up to its name, and a place that we would not end up leaving for the next EIGHT HOURS! Vibrant and quirky murals line the stairwell entrance to Dr. Zombie Restaurant in New Delhi, setting the stage for an unforgettable dining adventure. Honestly, apart from the bottle and what could be a strawberry in the one closest to the right, we have no idea what is going on. At this point, we had to turn left up another stairwell, and our early optimism and curiosity were now seeming like an 'are we in the right spot here?' feeling. With the aforementioned red door open, it was like walking into another world, far beyond where we had just come from outside. The first thing that struck us was the different materials all around, from concrete to brick, wood to stone, and industrial metal in some places. It felt like a zombie movie, like one of those warehouses or something, with the render only patchy on the walls, the bare concrete adding a heavy and slightly dark and onerous feel to the scene. It was super cool! Inside Dr. Zombie's Restaurant in New Delhi, vibrant zombie-themed decor adorns the brick walls, complete with eerie green lanterns, horror movie posters, and a striking mural on the stairs. In almost every spot available on the walls and available spaces, there was some sort of reference to the theme. It kind of felt like an odd amalgamation of Halloween, zombies, and what I would imagine Hard Rock Cafe would look like with a zombie theme. The frames of random movies and general scary stuff add that part. Cozy corner at Dr. Zombie Restaurant in New Delhi, featuring eclectic decor, plush seating, and creative green accents perfect for a relaxed hangout. The lighting was excellent for this vibe, and there were several levels to it. Dr. Zombie is almost like a multi-faceted spot with different places and floors for a mix between a coffee shop-style workspace, eatery, and hangout place during the day. As the evening and night draw near, it becomes a zombie-themed Italian restaurant , with pizza, beer, and food aplenty flowing from its kitchen at the rear and extensive bar at the front. We were able to secure a spot in front of the pizza oven station, obviously with our starting point being a very quiet 2 pm (turns out this was a premium table in the evening). Entrance of Dr. Zombie Restaurant in New Delhi, featuring vibrant tribal poles and lush greenery beneath soft, atmospheric lighting. We even had this cool water feature behind us to add to the setting! If you look at the sides, they almost look like some sort of South American totem poles. Another element to add to this intriguing place called Dr. Zombie. Although we are unaware of who this guy below is, we would like to thank him for his wonderful singing and renditions throughout the evening part of our visit here, too. He had such a soothing voice and brought the vibe of India to our table for sure. He is talented! Not sure if he comes every night, but either way, having live music is always a great feature of any restaurant . A musician performs live at Dr. Zombie Restaurant in New Delhi, adding a lively atmosphere to the quirky, themed eatery. From the moment we arrived here, we felt highly comfortable, and although we did not exactly expect to be here for so long, we are more than happy we were! It did feel a tad on the expensive side, but more so in the context of being responsible full-time travelers than the restaurant prices. They were very reasonable for where we were actually. We did take full advantage of happy hour on the beers and ended up having both lunch and dinner! The food was excellent too, perhaps even the best meal we could say we had in India in the entire time we were there. Having eaten twice for four and having had 16+ beers in total at £40 a head, it was a cracking night. The service and vibe were excellent, and we could not have asked for more. Spot on, Dr. Zombie! Read on for the menu, how to find the restaurant, highlights in our YouTube video, and our in-depth experience rating. The Food at Dr. Zombie Delightful sushi rolls beautifully presented at Dr. Zombie Restaurant, New Delhi. There are many things that we feel go into making a top-class, Jenn & Leon 5-star rated restaurant. You can find all of them in our experience rating later on. But above all of the factors—atmosphere, price, service, etc.—we would say the number one of utmost importance is the food. The product. The main thing we come for. In that regard, Dr. Zombie has it pretty spot on. With Leon, a massive fan of curry, keen to try one in every country we visit, India is the best place to be. No matter the style of restaurant, you will find some sort of curry on the menu. Dr. Zombie is officially classed as an Italian , although there are plenty of Indian dishes to choose from. A mouthwatering dish of loaded nachos topped with creamy sauce and salsa, presented at Dr. Zombie Restaurant in New Delhi, served alongside flavorful dips on a rustic wooden table. So with much excitement and clamor, Leon went for the Kadai Chicken Curry, Jenn went for chicken, vegetables, and Indian spices, and Jackson and Marjo ordered sushi. Yes, sushi! Dr. Zombie does Japanese , too! Sizzling Kadai Chicken served alongside fragrant rice, topped with crispy onions at Dr. Zombie Restaurant, New Delhi. As the minutes turned to hours, and hours turned from afternoon to evening, we also ordered dinner of sorts, with nachos and salsa, Cajun-dusted fries, and a couple of pizzas being added to our burgeoning bill. The food was all excellent. High quality, rich in flavor, beautifully presented, and kindly served. It had everything we were looking for, and every plate and chopping board went back empty. There were several highlights from our time here, and the food is most certainly one of them, if not the best of all. Dr. Zombie's Restaurant Food Menu With GBP 1 converting to 100 Indian Rupees at the time of writing, that should give you a good idea of the prices here. The menu is extensive and full of intriguing things, and this is by no means all of it! Tap the arrow and swipe across for more, and feel free to download it if you want to. How to Get to Dr. Zombie's Restaurant in New Delhi Dr. Zombie is pretty easy to find once you are in Connaught Place. Most transportation services should easily know how to get to CP, but it is a big area, so even if you make it there, you may have to walk if the driver does not know it exactly. Here are some starting points if you are in New Delhi: By Metro Take the Yellow Line metro from Karol Bagh to Rajiv Chowk. Rajiv Chowk is the closest metro station to Dr. Zombie's Restaurant. Once you reach Rajiv Chowk, you can walk to Dr. Zombie's Restaurant in about 5 minutes. By Bus Take the bus number 502 from Karol Bagh to Connaught Place. The bus stop is located right outside the hotel. Once you reach Connaught Place, you can walk to Dr. Zombie Restaurant in about 10 minutes. By Auto Rickshaw Auto rickshaws are readily available outside the hotel. You can ask the driver to take you to Dr. Zombie's Restaurant. The fare should be around ₹100. ⪢ Dr. Zombie Contact Information ● Address: First Floor, C Block, C 35, Rajiv Chowk, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, India ● Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 12 pm to 12 am ● Contact: +91 6909090905 / +91 989112868 ● Payments: Accepts Cash / Credit & Debit Cards ● Instagram: @dr.zombie Where to Stay in New Delhi Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse New Delhi hotel deals below to find great rates from top providers in the city. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. India Travel Tip: Consider Taking a Tour One of the most popular ways to explore India is with a guided tour. Skip the line for the Taj Mahal, tour cities like Mumbai and Delhi, or enjoy the wonderful sights in Udaipur and Jaipur. Check out a host of different options with GetYourGuide. No matter where your travels take you, GetYourGuide offers the best way to connect with your destination. 🎟️  Book your tickets here Watch Our First Impressions of India on YouTube This is our first time visiting New Delhi, and the sights, smells, sounds, and energy of this city hit us like nowhere else on Earth. With a population of over 34 million, Delhi is massive, loud, and alive—and we’re diving right into the chaos and beauty. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like  and subscribe ! Your support is truly invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content possible from around the world! Our Experience Ratings: Dr. Zombie Bar & Restaurant There has been plenty of praise for Dr. Zombie's restaurant throughout this post; it feels only right to add even more here! We recommend Dr. Zombie with 5 stars and a heap of praise for creating such a cool, unique, and bespoke establishment in the heart of New Delhi. From the food to the service, it ticks every box and is THE place to go if you are in Connaught Place! Atmosphere What is there not to say about the atmosphere here?! With so much to capture the attention and imagination, Dr. Zombie has an abundance of VIBE. Careful not to be tacky, the team has done an excellent job with the decor, and the live music is a great touch. Cost & Value No doubt, there are cheaper places in New Delhi to eat at. As full-time travelers, this was a bill that was at least 4x higher than we would usually want to spend. But as the old adage goes, you get what you pay for, and if you want it, you have got to pay for it! The best measure of the price is value for money, quality, and service. All of that considered, we feel it is very reasonable here for what you get. Happy hour is a great bonus, and the portions of food were also on the bigger side. Food Dr. Zombie has got a lot going for it, nothing more so than its fantastic menu and superb food quality. Leon's curry was a real highlight, and Jenn's chicken was delicious. The fries and nachos went down a treat too, and Jackson and Marjo thoroughly enjoyed their pizza and sushi. One can tell great care is taken over the food here, and we could have easily tried more from the menu! The biggest challenge, honestly, seems to be what to choose! Service The service at Dr. Zombie cannot be faulted at all. Not too overbearing, efficient, and friendly, we all felt well taken care of. The staff was super quick with replacing drinks and clearing the table, even when it got busy later on in the evening. There is a lasting impression left on us here, and if we do ever make it to New Delhi again, we are in no doubt that we would stop by again! FAQ – Dr. Zombie New Delhi Restaurant Review What type of cuisine does Dr. Zombie serve? Dr. Zombie offers a creative menu blending Asian fusion with street food influences, featuring bold flavors and unique cocktails. Where is Dr. Zombie located in New Delhi? It’s located in Connaught Place , easily accessible from popular city areas. What is the ambiance like at Dr. Zombie? The restaurant has a trendy, vibrant atmosphere with quirky decor that appeals to both locals and tourists. How are the prices at Dr. Zombie? Prices are mid-range, offering good value considering the quality and creativity of the dishes. Is Dr. Zombie suitable for vegetarians or vegans? Yes, the menu includes vegetarian options, and the staff are generally accommodating for special dietary requests. Do I need to make a reservation? Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends and evenings, as the place can get busy. How was the service at Dr. Zombie's? Service is generally attentive and friendly, though wait times can vary during peak hours. Can I get takeaway or delivery from Dr. Zombie? Yes, takeaway and delivery options are available through popular local platforms. Is Dr. Zombie family-friendly? The restaurant caters mostly to young adults and groups; families with young children may find the ambiance less suitable. What are the must-try dishes at Dr. Zombie? Based on our experience, the signature cocktails and fusion starters are highly recommended. Coming up: A FAILED Trip to Akshardham Temple, but an Unexpected Trip to the INDIA GATE! Having woken up fairly weary after our Dr. Zombie shenanigans, we decided to take a slow morning on Day Three. We ordered room service, edited videos, and just chilled in our hotel until early afternoon. The food was decent, and with us all fully recovered, we decided to head out to what looked like a very special light show at Akshardham Temple. So off we went, and after nearly 90 minutes of traffic, we got there only to be refused entry . Cue the India Gate to step in and save the day! The India Gate was a great experience, not least for the dozens of people asking for photographs with us. Travel Resources

In this post, we will take you through our first day exploring New Delhi! We have lots to get through, with a couple of scams (yes, already!), a mini guide to Connaught Place, and a pretty fantastic afternoon, evening, and  night at DR ZOMBIE. The day had finally arrived! Our first excursion in New Delhi was with our friends Jackson and Marjo. In high spirits, slightly apprehensive but curious nonetheless, we grabbed some water bottles, got our cameras at the ready, and headed out into the thick air of heat, pollution, and chaotic traffic. Add non-stop honking to that. And horses. And cows. And scooters and rickshaws. Lots and lots of scooters and rickshaws! Thank you for stopping by, and welcome to our India series here on the Jenn and Leon Travel Blog. After 2 ½ years of full-time travel, going to India was realizing a dream for us. We had always wanted to visit, and not only did the time arrive, but it came with our good friends and fellow YouTubers Jackson and Marjo . If you missed the start of the series and want to know how we got together in no less than three countries, head over to our dedicated INDIA Country Guide , where you can get up to date! In This Post... ● SCAMMED! ● SIX in a Rickshaw ● SCAMMED! Tourist Office?! ● Connaught Place ● India Travel Tip See More... ● 8 HOURS at Dr Zombie ● Watch on YouTube ● Find Hotels in Delhi ● Travel Resources Scammed! Is This Even Yours? Almost from the moment we stepped outside onto the main street, we were marked. You will see in our YouTube video that there is a guy in a yellow top who is watching us, with whom we ended up going to Connaught Place. But it was not as straightforward as it sounds, and we are almost certain it was not his rickshaw! The first thing that hit us outside was the heat combined with the lack of fresh air. It is very uncomfortable at times, stuffy, and sticky. We kind of all felt that pretty quickly and were hoping that we could arrange an Uber fast . But it does seem like doing this outside on the streets is not always the best idea. Not only does it draw attention, but it is already difficult because of the multitude of distractions all around, ranging from cows to scooters. With a lack of road/side-of-road traffic discipline, we had to keep our wits about us. Things would come flying out of nowhere! Plus, we were on one of the busiest junctions we had ever seen! Maybe, except Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo (unless you substitute people for rickshaws). So, with our new 'friend' seemingly prepared to do anything to get us to our destination, with all of the chaos around us going on, we all agreed to just try 'his' rickshaw. It wasn't like there weren't hundreds of them! So we went with this guy, although that meant crossing this mad intersection. Surprisingly, it did not seem that dangerous, as it seems everyone is used to everyone just doing anything. So we made it across! However, things were starting to get fishy. As it happens, the guy in the yellow top did not have a rickshaw. He seemed to be hunting around, eventually finding a guy on the opposite side from where we were standing originally, whom he called his 'uncle.' Of course, we did not believe that, though! Just like that, he asked us to hop in. The four of us, with him also coming along. We agreed on a price of 100 rupees each, 400 in total, before crossing the road, and it seemed he upheld this agreement as we got into the rickshaw. As much as we did not trust what was happening, we kind of all just went along with it. It is India! Needless to say, the price was 500 rupees for all of us when we got out. 100 more than we agreed, and we did not even get dropped off where we wanted to be. But more on that later. First, just how did we fit into that rickshaw? Six in a Rickshaw Having only ever taken a rickshaw as a twosome, oddly, we did not anticipate the issue of there being four of us. Although a simple solution would be to take two rickshaws, we did not want to be separated. So we went along with it, although we're not too sure how safe it was for Jackson up front! While you can just about squeeze three in the back, the front seat is only designed for the driver. But as we saw throughout our time in India, it seems that this 'single' seat can often be transformed into a three-seater simply by the driver taking the center of the seat, thus creating a good 3-4 inches of space on either side of him! Genius! So there Jackson was, half in and out of the rickshaw, clinging on for dear life as the traffic whizzing by him seemed to get closer and closer every time. It was such a wild ride, and even though it did feel dangerous prior, once inside, it was not all bad. Our guy in the yellow top was pretty talkative too, giving us the lowdown on Delhi, advice on where to go, and showing an interest in our journey. Rather oddly, several times he mentioned how dangerous the area is and to be careful filming with phones or cameras. He specifically pointed to Jackson and Marjo's, which is a more professional camera, but he even called out our Insta360, too. He said people would snatch them and run or get offended by filming without permission (although we always try to ask anyway). Naturally, this made us all very hesitant and meant we did not record much outside. To be honest, we are not sure if he was telling us the truth or not, but either way, it is good to remain vigilant and careful with the equipment. So we did! (perhaps a little more on guard than we usually would be) Scammed! Tourist Office, anyone? What should have been a 15-20 minute ride to Connaught Square ended up taking around double that time. The traffic is everywhere, and the junctions in particular do feel very much like a roulette! We did see police officers, but not many traffic police, and we would attest that this is badly needed in New Delhi! Crammed into the rickshaw, it was hard for us to keep track of where we were going, although it did seem like we were headed in the right direction. So we chatted away, looked out at the bustling city, and just went with it. ⪢ Travel Tip Whenever using an Uber or taxi app, we always keep the app on during the ride for our safety, watching the map to ensure we are going to where we need to be. On a rickshaw, this practice is even more important, especially with known scams (such as going in the wrong direction to make more cash) being commonplace. For this, we just kept our maps open en route, and it worked just as well. So while we did indeed get to the area we wanted to be in, we were not quite in Connaught Place. We were dropped off at a building and told to go up some stairs to a 'tourist office.' Throughout our journey, our guy had been mentioning it and how important it was that we consider going, as we can get free information and help with where to go and what to do. We had, however, declined (several times); we wanted to go to CP. Nevertheless, it did not happen, and we all found ourselves in a nice air-conditioned office, waiting to speak to a guy in a smart shirt. We suspect our guy in the yellow shirt gets some sort of commission or has some sort of arrangement with this 'tourist' office. He had kept saying it was a government organization, but it was not at all. We are not exactly sure what it was, although the chap we spoke to was quite helpful. He showed us a map with some hotspots and left his details if we needed to contact him. We did not need to, as we were pretty well planned out before even coming to India (thanks, Jenn). But, in all fairness, he was providing a service of some sort, so we appreciate that. So we were charged extra, taken to the wrong place, and left to walk the rest of the way to CP. It was only 6 minutes or so, so no harm done really. As we found out throughout our time in India, getting dropped off at your exact location is not always a given! More on that throughout the series, but for now, let's tell you a bit about the famous Connaught Place. Connaught Place—the Shopping Hub of New Delhi Connaught Place, often referred to as CP, is one of the most iconic and popular commercial and financial centers in New Delhi, India. It is located in the heart of the city and serves as a major hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Connaught Place is known for its distinctive Georgian architecture, with its white colonnaded buildings an integral part of the area's charm. Designed by British architect Robert Tor Russell in the early 20th century, we had seen much of it online and knew it was a popular spot for tourists and YouTubers. We booked our hotel with accessibility to CP in mind, and we were excited to check it out. A charming view of Connaught Place in Delhi, featuring the iconic Connaught High Street sign from 1931, elegant benches, and a classic street clock amidst lush greenery. Connaught Place is designed in the shape of two concentric circles, known as the Inner Circle and Outer Circle, with several radial roads radiating from the center. The center of the complex is a large park called Central Park, which is surrounded by the circular rows of shops, restaurants, and offices. CP is also famous for its diverse range of shops and stores. You can find clothing boutiques, bookstores, jewelry shops, electronics, and more. There is also a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries serving Indian and international cuisines. ⪢ Great Architecture, but the Area Needs a Clean-Up! Our first impressions of Connaught Place were that it felt very much like familiar territory. It has the architecture of the style we are both so familiar with, given its 'British' overtures. It was nice to get away from the manic main road, to somewhere a little quieter too. We had no major plans; we were thinking of heading to the central garden area, checking out an electronics store, and also looking for a SIM card . We achieved only one of those things! Shoppers stroll past the vibrant storefronts of Connaught Place, New Delhi, with Dr. Zombie's pop-culture-themed café prominently featured. Despite the impressive buildings and their colonnades shimmering white in the sunlight, it felt very dirty here, albeit much less busy. There were piles of rubbish in almost every corner, and the streets were caked in dirt and grime. Amongst the stifling heat, occasional whiffs of garbage, urine, and sewage would waft over, which was not particularly pleasant. It seemed a little odd to be in such an environment, especially given that this is an area that is looking to attract business. But hey, we have to respect it, right? We were trying to search for what we were looking for online, and it was tricky, to say the least. As with the Storybook Hotel, many establishments do list more than one spot, have shut down, or have incorrect opening times. So, it was really difficult to find an Airtel store for a SIM card. So we abandoned that and decided to go to an electronics store, as Jackson and Marjo wanted to check out some devices. On our way there, we encountered some very persistent people! Be it beggars or rickshaw drivers, we were being noticed. So noticeable, in fact, that for the most part, we seemed to be accompanied by someone or other. Aggressive in some places, we have to say that the rickshaw drivers here were thankfully quite passive. We even walked with one chap for a while, answering some of his questions and striking up a good conversation. What struck us the most was the number of beggars and the homelessness we saw. Especially amongst children. Almost immediately, we were attracting several bedraggled kids, who tend to stand around and are very persistent. We do try to give what we can, and we are often conflicted with this sort of thing. We know that some of it is organized begging by adults and that many of the kids do not see cash. Food is the best option, but apart from a bottle of water, we had nothing to give. It is hard on the heart for sure. After all of that, we made it to the electronics store, and just like outside, the moment we walked in, what seemed like all of the staff in the building made a beeline for us. It was a nice store, with plenty to look at, but at every turn, there were two or three staff members on top of us, desperate to help. We took it in our stride, starting to feel like this was a very common occurrence in India. It was okay, but it was starting to get to be a bit much. We did not buy anything, and when we got outside, we were starting to all feel a little fatigued and overwhelmed. We had the option to go to the CP garden but thought it would be better with some fuel first. Food and beer seemed like the common consensus! We needed to escape the smells, the heat, the horns, and the interactions. It was intense! Fortunately, we came across the Dr. Zombie restaurant pretty quickly, and we were intrigued by what it had to offer. Before we get into that, take a look at what else is on offer at CP and how to get there. ⪢ Things to Know about Connaught Place ● Nightlife: The nightlife in Connaught Place is vibrant, with numerous bars, pubs, and clubs that stay open late into the night. It's a popular spot for those looking to unwind and enjoy the Delhi nightlife. ● Business Hub: Connaught Place is also home to several corporate offices and commercial spaces, making it an essential business district in the city. ● Transportation: The area is well-connected with New Delhi's transportation network. It has its own metro station, Rajiv Chowk, which is one of the busiest metro stations in the city and serves as an interchange point for multiple metro lines. ● Events & Festivals: Connaught Place often hosts cultural events, festivals, and gatherings. These events can range from street markets to art exhibitions, making it a dynamic and lively place throughout the year. ● Landmarks: Some of the notable landmarks in or near Connaught Place include Jantar Mantar, Palika Bazaar, and the Parliament House. ⪢ How to find Connaught Place Getting to Connaught Place in New Delhi is relatively easy, as it is a well-connected area in the heart of the city. Here are several transportation options to reach Connaught Place: By Metro The Delhi Metro is one of the most convenient ways to get to Connaught Place. It has its own dedicated station named "Rajiv Chowk Metro Station" located right in the center of Connaught Place. You can take any metro line that intersects with the Blue Line (Line 3) to reach Rajiv Chowk Station. By Bus Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses and other public and private buses ply through Connaught Place regularly. You can check with the local bus authorities or use Google Maps to find the nearest bus stop and route. By Auto-Rickshaw Auto-rickshaws are a common mode of transportation in Delhi. You can hail an auto-rickshaw to get to Connaught Place, but make sure to negotiate the fare or ask the driver to go by the meter before starting the ride. By Taxi You can book a taxi through ride-sharing apps like Uber or Ola or find a taxi at various taxi stands throughout the city. Alternatively, you can hire a traditional taxi from the street. By Cycle Rickshaw In and around Connaught Place, you can find cycle rickshaws, which are a slow but eco-friendly mode of transportation for short distances. It's worth noting that Connaught Place is located in a central area, and many landmarks, markets, and tourist attractions are within walking distance. The best mode of transportation depends on your location, convenience, and personal preferences. Using the Delhi Metro is often the fastest and most efficient way to reach Connaught Place, as it helps you avoid the city's notorious traffic jams. India Travel Tip: Consider Taking a Tour One of the most popular ways to explore India is by guided tour. Skip the line for the Taj Mahal, tour cities like Mumbai and Delhi, or enjoy the wonderful sights in Udaipur and Jaipur. Check out a host of different options with GetYourGuide. No matter where your travels take you, GetYourGuide offers the best way to connect with your destination. 🎟️  Book your tickets here Eight HOURS at Dr. Zombie This was one of those unexpected but very well-accepted moments! In need of some escape from the intensity of the street, Dr. Zombie was like an illuminated savior amongst the chaos. The green sign pulled us in with curiosity and apprehension. What would we find in here? Hopefully a beer! And then everything else would be a bonus. Well, it turns out we hit the jackpot! Not only did we have plenty of beer, but we also stayed long enough to have our lunch and then later dinner! We loved this place, and the food and service were impeccable. One of our best experiences in India, we all give mad props to Dr. Zombie. The restaurant has a unique theme, with zombie-themed decor throughout. Numerous signs, images, and props fill the walls, which are a casual blend of concrete and brick. There is a unique atmosphere here! The menu features a variety of Italian dishes, including pizzas, pastas, and salads. There is plenty of Indian food on the menu to choose from, too. Dr. Zombie also has a full bar, serving cocktails, beer, and wine. We honestly lost track of time; we were having such a good night! It was very comfortable in here, and the staff was super helpful and friendly. It was not exactly the cheapest of places, and we ended up leaving with a £165 bill! But for what we enjoyed and how well we dined, we would say it was all worth it. And we highly recommend a visit here. If you are interested in knowing more about Dr. Zombie and would like to see some of the food, the live music, and a full tour of the place, check out our comprehensive restaurant review . And with that epic eight hours (still can't believe that), this day was almost at an end. Our Uber home was fairly uneventful, and soon we were back at our not-so-good hotel for our penultimate night in New Delhi. It was late, around 11 pm, and we were all looking forward to a good sleep. 💡 Pro Tip: If you are in an area like New Delhi, and the 24-hour honking makes it hard for you to sleep, consider downloading a fan app on your phone. A simple app (or YouTube) to play a consistent noise, like that of a fan or water, does a remarkable job at drowning out the honking. Try it—you will not regret it! Up Next: A FAILED Trip to Akshardham Temple Leads to a Trip to the INDIA GATE! Having woken up fairly weary after our Dr. Zombie shenanigans, we decided to take a slow morning on Day Three of our India adventure. We ordered room service, edited videos, and just chilled in our hotel until early afternoon. The Akshardham Temple in Delhi is illuminated at dusk, showcasing its intricate architecture and lush gardens, with visitors strolling along the pathway. The food was decent, and with us all fully recovered, we decided to head out to what looked like a very special light show at Akshardham Temple. So off we went, and after nearly 90 minutes of traffic, we got there only to be refused entry . Cue the India Gate to step in and save the day! Watch Our First Impressions of India on YouTube This is our first time visiting New Delhi, and the sights, smells, sounds, and energy of this city hit us like nowhere else on Earth. With a population of over 34 million, Delhi is massive, loud, and alive—and we’re diving right into the chaos and beauty. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like  and subscribe ! Your support is truly invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content possible from around the world! Where to Stay in New Delhi Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse New Delhi hotel deals below to find great rates from top providers in the city. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. Travel Resources

We arrived at Indira Gandhi International Airport after a long travel day, pretty late in the evening. We were weary and tired and most grateful that our first hotel in India had been able to arrange a pickup service directly from the airport. Our immediate feeling about the airport was that it felt old, a little tired, and dated. That being said, the best judge of an airport, in our opinion, is getting through it smoothly, and smoothly we did. To be honest, the carnage started once we got outside! Okay, perhaps "carnage" is a strong word. But it was busy. Like really, really busy. There were people everywhere, and luckily, we had our driver, who was seemingly pulling us away from the chaos. The trip from arrivals to the parking lot seemed very far, and by the time we had gotten to where we needed to be, we were pretty exhausted. When we got to our hotel , we realized very quickly that it was not at all what it was online. The room was tired and dated, the bathroom was a disaster, and we couldn't even shower! In this post, we review the Staybook Hotel, plus we introduce you to India's notorious roads and a common scam sweeping New Delhi . In This Post... ● First Impressions ● Notorious Roads ● Our Hotel Review ● Water Bottle Scam ● Travel Tip: Taking a Tour See More... ● How to Get There ● Where to Stay in Delhi ● Watch on YouTube ● Our Experience Ratings ● FAQ ● Travel Resources Arriving in India: Our First Impressions Even having traveled to 42 countries at the time of writing, it is fair to say that we still need time to acclimate to new environments. No matter how many different cultures we see, each one is unique and different, and from the moment we land, we are consciously and subconsciously taking it all in. While we had done plenty of research and knew what to expect, we were both pretty wary as we stood in the exhaust-filled car park waiting for our guy to fetch the car. In the five minutes we waited, a hundred people could have easily walked by. Even at 11 pm, this place was rocking! A lot was happening, and it was a tad overwhelming. We were most grateful to see our driver pull up, and to be fair to him, he was super friendly. He cracked plenty of jokes, told us some information about his country, and was happy to help with our luggage. His vehicle was okay too, almost like a Suzuki Carry van, but as a 5-seater, and also (and perhaps most importantly), the air conditioning was really solid too. So overall, we felt pretty secure and confident that we would get to the hotel okay, which was about 45 minutes from the airport. An Introduction to India's Notorious Roads Just before we were leaving, after getting our stuff in the trunk, our driver made a point of saying, 'Don't worry, I drive slow. ' Rather an odd thing to say, but as perhaps intended, it was quite reassuring. Well, that was before takeoff anyway! Many a nervous glance was shared between us as our juddery driver crunched through the gears and sped across the roads out of the airport like a man on a serious mission. While it may seem like a glamorous exaggeration, it is not. We are talking 120-140 km/h easily most of the way there, including some pretty dangerous and hairy maneuvers that you would expect more from a high-speed police chase than a simple airport transfer. We tried not to say too much about it, although Leon did reciprocate the 'drive slow' joke midway through the ride with a comparison to Lewis Hamilton. We think he got it, although one can never be too sure! As it was late at night, there was not much we could see, although we have to say that driving out from Indira Gandhi International Airport was a breeze. Long stretches of well-lit highways keep the traffic flowing, and owing to the G20 event just a few days earlier, there were India's flag colorslit up in lights around all of the lampposts too. Couple that with lots of G20 livery, flowers, and all at every intersection, and it looked very nice. Clean and modern, we were almost feeling like perhaps India might just upset our preconceptions. But it was night, and we had not seen the hotel yet. We made it to the Staybook Hotel easily within 45 minutes. Our driver was certainly right on that, at least, and we were just glad we made it without any major incident. We had planned to give the driver a tip, and indeed, once our bags were out of the trunk, he stood intentionally close to persuade us to do so. Leon initially gave him 200 rupees, of which he asked for more , so Leon left him with 500. In all honesty, our hesitance to tip at all would have been warranted given the crazy driving. But, well, this was our first night; he got us here, and hopefully his extra bounce on the job was worth it. Who knows what his situation is? Back in February of this year, we visited Vietnam for the first time, followed by Cambodia shortly after. Thailand was our 'home' for five months at the start of 2023. So it is fair to say that we 'know' a little bit about the road situation. Lots of bikes, tuk-tuks/rickshaws, scooters, cars, and a whole bunch of traffic. Well, let's just say combine all that experience into one, roll it up in a ball, and India will be the one to kick it. India's roads are on a whole other level! Our Staybook Hotel (City Stories) New Delhi Review We chose Staybook—Hotel City Stories—By Aira Xing, Paharganj, as it is close to the famous Connaught Place/Circle and is in the heart of New Delhi. Right on a main road, finding transport was not a problem. Besides, with a 4-star rating online, some nice-looking photos, and a great price, we had high hopes. As it happens, when we arrived, our friends Jackson and Marjo were already there. They were on the balcony when we were offloading our bags and paying our tip. Try as they could, they shouted to us by name, hoping to catch some sort of wave or smile or anything. But we couldn't hear them! Already a tad traumatized after some very near misses on the way there and weary from our flights and travel day vibes, the noise of Delhi took over. The honking! Oh, the honking. Loud, intrusive, and near-constant, the honking was sure to drown out any hopes they had of us hearing them, even from only the second floor of the hotel. You can catch that moment in our YouTube video . Be sure to check that out later! With the chaotic traffic behind us (even at 11 pm?!), we made our way with our bags through a pretty dingy doorway and through to an elevator. There was a guard on hand to help who was very eager to get us through and up to the reception. He, like many others, warned that it was a 'dangerous area.' Our immediate impression was that the Storybook Hotel did not look like what we had booked at all. In all of the hundreds of accommodations we have stayed at, we have not often arrived somewhere that seriously made us reconsider our choice. Maybe only twice. Well, this was the third! More so for the lack of honesty, and as our stay there progressed, also for the basic lack of safety and maintenance. ⪢ The Service One standout of the Storybook Hotel was the service. Above all else, good service can go a long way to masking things like poor aesthetics. We were shown to our room, offered help with our luggage, and given towels, complimentary water, and access to the WIFI. We became familiar with one worker in particular, the one helping us with our breakfast in the photo (sorry, we cannot remember his name). He was cool, although a little odd in his ways. He had this wonderful habit of saying 'ten minutes' for everything. Any request. Like water or toilet paper, for example. Ten minutes, and then it always ended up being 20! However, we will call him out on some poor practices, like offering coffee and placing his fingers inside our cups, clenched on the rim. No gloves, of course. He also had a rather strange habit of wanting to plate our food using our utensils, and we did put a stop to that. But overall, even with his lack of English, he was our 'go-to' guy at the hotel, and he was pretty helpful and good at his job. ⪢ The Food The food at the hotel did not look like much, but it was okay, to be fair. Breakfast was included in the price for us, and bizarrely, the front desk even called our room at 8 am to let us know it was ready. The 'canteen,' we guess we should call it, was not up to much and did not give a good first impression at all. Utensils were scarce, the plastic tables in the middle of the room had seen better days, and the 'buffet' table consisted of 4 elements every morning. The options for breakfast would bounce around between roti and yogurt, spicy Indian pickles, oatmeal, cornflakes (with no milk), and coffee. The coffee came courtesy of instant granules and a rather dodgy water machine. The combinations were fairly decent, and while it did not inspire much confidence with its presentation, we both did enjoy the mornings. It was a little hot, although in the dilapidated room, there was a ceiling fan that worked. There is a balcony that is full of plants, which is nice. Then, of course, there is the constant honking that fills the whole building, more incessant than ever in the mornings as the road outside starts to choke up. So breakfast was interesting, to say the least. We were in India, and we certainly felt like it! There is also a menu for in-room food, which was pretty decent. We did order a few things, which were okay, but it was not very fancy. It was efficient, though, and the prices were reasonable. There is a KFC opposite the hotel, which is pretty handy if you like that as we do (although it is very different from 'western' KFC). In terms of other food options outside of the hotel, we cannot say. We did not walk around much, so we did not see if there were any stores or restaurants. ⪢ The Room While the main corridor of rooms in the hotel looked tired, the very same can be said of the rooms themselves. In all fairness, the bed was comfy, although the sheets were stained in places. But okay, what are you going to do? We could manage. The rest of the room, however, left much to be desired. Broken plug sockets, grubby light switches, damaged furniture, and grubby walls. This was not the picture we saw. ⪢ The Bathroom The worst part for us was the bathroom. This is something we never usually compromise on wherever we stay. It is important for us that we have our bathroom, and that is one of the various reasons hostels do not appeal to us (although we now know we can get private rooms with a bathroom). At the Staybook Hotel, it was a disaster. The only basic function that worked was the toilet, and even that was a struggle. There was only one tap for water, which would constantly be out of water, and when it did work, it would just keep spluttering and spitting. And the worst part of it all, the water smelled awful. The kind of smell that Leon would associate with his plumbing days. For sure, something must have been dead in the water tank. We literally could not use the water. Now you can get away with hand sanitizer and the like for that, and we never brush our teeth with tap water anyway. But how could we shower? We literally couldn't. Besides, the shower area was not clean, and the showerheadwas so rusted that water would have a hard time coming out anyway. We did not even attempt to find out. This was the first time in all of our travels that we had not been able to shower. And we were in New Delhi, one of the hottest cities on the planet. Things were not looking good! Thank goodness the air conditioning worked ok, despite the numerous wires spewing out of the side of it. So at least we were not hot in the room. We had to improvise, and we used wet wipes. We did not feel clean, but it was better than nothing. ⪢ How We Would Sum Up Staybook Hotel It is hard to sum up our stay at the Staybook Hotel New Delhi. We paid 140 CAD for 3 nights, which works out to be a little under £85. In terms of location and value, it certainly ticks the boxes. We also have to shout out the WIFI, which was surprisingly good for the first few days. The staff are friendly, although they were very pushy with our friends at the end of our stay for a review online. So much so, they almost demanded that they do it in front of them, and we have read about this in the reviews online, too. Despite the challenges, this was our hotel for 3 days, and we had to accept our situation. We were a little disappointed, but we were not going to let this dampen our enthusiasm for Delhi. At least if you have read this, you will know what to expect. This is a 2-star hotel at best, but money-wise, you really cannot go wrong. Bring plenty of wet wipes, and you will be just fine! The Water Bottle Scam One thing we did sadly catch wind of is that there is a known scam involving water bottles in India. Water is refilled in a bottle from the tap, and the lid is heat-sealed to look like it has not been opened. The hotel did provide bottled water in the room, and there was also a chiller by reception. It was not very cold, but we did indulge, as it is important to stay hydrated in the heat! While we do not in any way accuse the hotel of this bottle scam, some of the water was filled so high in the bottle that it just did not seem like it was genuine. We highly recommend double-checking water bottles, as bad water can cause discomfort and, in some cases, serious illness! We did use them, and the day after we left the hotel, we all got sick, although we cannot be sure it was from the water. Just please be diligent! India Travel Tip: Consider Taking a Tour One of the most popular ways to explore India is by guided tour. Skip the line for the Taj Mahal, tour cities like Mumbai and Delhi, or enjoy the wonderful sights in Udaipur and Jaipur. Check out a host of different options with GetYourGuide. No matter where your travels take you, GetYourGuide offers the best way to connect with your destination. 🎟️  Book your tickets here How to Get to Hotel Staybook City Stories Throughout our time in New Delhi, it was pretty easy to get to and from the hotel. As the hotel offers an airport shuttle service, getting there initially is no problem. Despite its location on a busy main road, it is possible to get an Uber just outside. It is a tad tricky for the driver to park, but the traffic is so busy that it is possible. In terms of getting back to the hotel from any excursions, Uber does that easily. By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Services From Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), the hotel is approximately a 30–40 minute drive depending on traffic. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Ola and Uber are widely available and reliable in New Delhi. Always use official airport taxi counters or trusted ride-hailing apps to avoid scams and overcharging. By Metro The nearest metro station to Staybook Hotel is typically Shahdara or Welcome Station, depending on the exact hotel location. The New Delhi Metro is efficient and affordable; you can take the Yellow Line or Red Line to connect with these stations. From the metro station, you might need a short taxi or auto-rickshaw ride to the hotel. By Bus Several city bus routes run near the hotel; however, buses in New Delhi can be crowded and confusing for first-time visitors. It’s recommended to use the metro or taxi services for convenience. ⪢ Contact Information for Staybook Hotel City Stories ● Address: Police Station, Plot No. 1-5, Desh Bandhu Gupta Rd, opposite Paharganj, Motia Khan, Sadar Bazaar, Delhi, New Delhi, Delhi 110055, India ● Phone: +91 83739 29299 ● Website: staybook-city-stories . Where to Stay in New Delhi Browse our interactive New Delhi hotel deals below to find great rates from top recommended, reputable providers in the city. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. Watch Our First Impressions of India on YouTube This is our first time visiting New Delhi, and the sights, smells, sounds, and energy of this city hit us like nowhere else on Earth. With a population of over 34 million, Delhi is massive, loud, and alive—and we’re diving right into the chaos and beauty. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like  and subscribe ! Your support truly is invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Our Experience Ratings: Staybook Hotel City Stories We have not had too many bad experiences on our travels when it comes to accommodation. Usually, our combination of good experience and thorough research leads to good spots! Sadly, on this occasion, this was not the case. The Hotel Staybook has done a pretty good job of their online presence, and we perhaps trusted the hotel listing a little too much here. We would not go as far as advising against booking this hotel, as what bothered us may not bother you. All we can do is be honest! There are some good positives, such as its location and service, and of course, the price is very attractive too. If you do choose to stay here, hopefully this post has helped to manage your expectations, so you aren't as surprised as we were when we arrived! Cleanliness We can only be honest here, and honestly, this place needs a major clean-up! The overall decor is tired and dated, with much of the furniture very worn too. Things like door handles and light switches were either broken or too dirty to touch, and the bathroom was, quite frankly, terrible. The toilet leaked, we literally couldn't use the water because of the smell, and bugs were crawling around, too. Not good! Cost & Value At just under CAD 50 per night, this hotel does represent good value to a point. If you are on a budget, it is fairly attractive, if you can handle the lack of cleanliness and rundown common areas. Food Breakfast is included, billed as a buffet, although we would not call it that! The options typically consisted of some combination of egg/roti and a traditional Indian dish. It was okay, but the coffee was not good, and the dining area was in very poor condition overall. Location On the location front, the hotel is around 20-30 minutes from Connaught Place (the popular shopping hub), and in general, you can get to most places fairly comfortably. There are a plethora of tuk-tuks just outside for a quick ride, and you can also catch a Grab , although sometimes, due to traffic, they can find it difficult to find a place to stop. Service If there was one saving grace to our experience here, it would be the service, which was fantastic. The staff was more than happy to help with all of our queries and was attentive and friendly. FAQ – Staybook Hotel New Delhi Review – Avoid What issues did you encounter at the Staybook Hotel in New Delhi? Common problems included poor cleanliness, outdated facilities, unhelpful staff, and inaccurate online descriptions compared to the experience. Is Staybook Hotel suitable for families or solo travelers? Based on our experience, the hotel is not recommended for families or solo travelers seeking comfort and reliable service. How was the location of Staybook Hotel? The location was convenient in terms of proximity to major landmarks, but the hotel’s condition and service did not meet expectations. Were there any safety concerns during the stay? We noticed some safety and security lapses, including poor maintenance and a lack of proper guest support. What alternatives do you suggest instead of Staybook Hotel? We recommend looking into well-reviewed hotels in New Delhi, such as [suggest alternatives with internal links], which offer better service and amenities. Is the Staybook Hotel worth the price? Considering the quality and experience, the hotel is good for a tight budget but not a good value for money in our opinion. Did you report the issues to the hotel management? Yes, but the response was unsatisfactory and did not resolve our concerns. Can I get a refund or compensation for a bad stay? Refund policies vary by booking platform. It’s best to check your booking terms and contact customer support directly. Should I book Staybook Hotel through third-party sites? Given the issues reported, it’s advisable to avoid booking through third-party sites or the hotel directly. What precautions should travelers take when booking hotels in New Delhi? Read multiple reviews, check recent guest photos, and verify cancellation policies before booking. Up Next: Our First Scam in India, SIX in a Rickshaw, Connaught Place, and a Very Unique Restaurant Our very first full day in New Delhi was an eventful one, to say the least! Together with our travel buddies Jackson and Marjo, we wanted to check out the famous Connaught Place shopping hub. From the moment we stepped out into the bustling heat outside our hotel, we were marked, eventually pushed towards a rickshaw, and somehow found ourselves dropped off at a 'tourist centre'. Following that, and after encountering a very aggressive beggar, we discovered Dr. Zombie restaurant and bar, and well, the rest is an eight-hour history, they say... Travel Resources

Egypt is one of those destinations you dream about for years. The pyramids, the Nile, the ancient ruins—it’s the kind of place that stirs the imagination. But no one warns you how intense it can feel when you’re actually there. One minute you’re standing in front of one of the world’s greatest wonders, the next you’re being followed by someone who just kindly offered to wrap your scarf and now wants money for it. It’s overwhelming, confusing, and honestly, sometimes infuriating. It is not just a hustle; it is major-league scamming too. We’re full-time travelers who’ve been to 42 countries, and Egypt hits differently. After a smooth first trip to the protected, polished resort town of El Gouna, we returned to experience “the real Egypt” in Cairo and Giza. And wow… did we ever. From fake hotel bookings to overpriced tours, shady dinner cruises, and relentless street scams, we saw a side of Egypt we weren’t prepared for, and we don’t want you to go in blind. In this post, we’re sharing our real experiences with tourist scams in Egypt, especially in Giza and Cairo, so you know what to expect, what to avoid, and how to protect yourself. Whether you’re booking a hotel, hailing an Uber, or simply walking the streets, here’s what you need to know before you go. In This Post... ● Introduction ● Scams That Happen in Egypt ● The Agoda Hotel Scam ● Overpriced Tours & False Promises ● The Scammy Nile Dinner Cruise ● Giza & Cairo Street Scams See More... ● The Reality Behind Giza’s Poverty ● Top Scams to Watch Out For ● How to Avoid Scams in Egypt ● Not Everything Is a Scam ● What to Say & Do to Deflect ● What Not to Do as a Tourist ● Egypt Travel Scams FAQ ● Our Experience Rating ● Related Links ● Travel Resources Introduction Exploring the ancient wonders: Jenn and Leon at the majestic Karnak Temple during their first visit to Egypt. After visiting El Gouna in Hurghada in 2022, we were keen to return to explore more of the incredible country of Egypt. We had a taste of the beautiful food, enjoyed the famous waters of the Red Sea, drove ATVs through the desert, and even took a day tour to Luxor and the epic Karnak Temple. That was a very long day, but totally worth it. It’s fair to say that our first experience in Egypt was fairly sheltered. El Gouna is a luxury man-made city surrounded by walls, with a heavily guarded main entrance. Only tourists and workers are allowed inside. When we left the city for our Luxor tour, we had a private car with a guide who took care of everything and shielded us from the usual hustle. We were genuinely well looked after. This time, things were different. Jenn and Leon at the majestic Temple of Hatshepsut in the Valley of the Kings. In terms of scams, we’ve encountered it all since returning, from aggressive street begging to a full-on hotel bait-and-switch. We’re sharing it all below so you know exactly what to watch out for. 👉 Read about our first Egypt experience in El Gouna 👉 Check out our Luxor day tour 👉 ATV Tour from El Gouna What Kind of Scams Happen in Egypt? Egypt is packed with iconic history, but travel here is far from smooth. From the moment you arrive in Cairo or Giza, you'll likely be targeted for scams. Sometimes they are subtle, sometimes bold. This isn’t fearmongering, just facts based on real experiences. Here’s a quick breakdown of what we encountered and what you might face: Fake hotel bookings through reputable-looking platforms Overpriced and misleading “VIP” tours are sold at hotels Constant tipping pressure, often disguised as hospitality Money swaps and fake bill tricks during payments Uber scams where drivers cancel and demand inflated cash fares People offering help, then demanding a tip Shops pushing fake souvenirs, “gifts,” and aggressive upselling People posing as police or official guides to gain your trust Being followed after visiting “secret” or “hidden” areas We’re not saying don’t go. We’re saying stay informed. The Agoda Hotel Scam—Our Worst Booking Experience Ever This was hands down the worst accommodation experience we’ve had in 42 countries. We booked a hotel in Giza through Agoda. It was confirmed. They sent a message offering airport pickup (for USD 15, despite the listing stating it was free). So far, so good (we thought). Our confirmation clearly shows the Best View Hotel. We landed at 2 am, and we were indeed greeted by someone with our name on a card as we got out of arrivals. However, unbeknownst to us, we were driven to a completely different hotel. At first, we suspected it was not quite right but wondered if maybe we were just in a different part of the hotel. It turns out that this was not only not the hotel we booked but also a different price and location, and it was using the name of the hotel we did book. They charged us 170 USD on the spot. We knew something was up, but tired, weary, and looking forward to a shower and bed, we paid. Either that or the street, right? It shows on the map, directly opposite the Pyramids. We then took our luggage to our room, which was ok. Certainly not the photos we had seen, though, not even close. We then went up to the roof, where we found our view of the pyramids of Giza obstructed by another building. Again, not what we had seen. Part of why we booked the hotel we did was for an unobstructed view. The room was okay, but nothing like the photos on Agoda, and with no balcony. We decided to question it there and then; however, the staff insisted it was the right place and blamed Agoda. Then they claimed they got our reservation from Booking.com (which we never used). They totally denied everything, even making out that they did not know the name of the other hotel, which is literally a 5-minute walk away. We later found out that the hotel we booked was the first in the area, so you would think they would have heard of it. While the pyramids can be seen, there is a large building obstructing them, which was not shown online. The next day, we found the hotel we actually booked. We went to the rooftop for breakfast, and when we finished, we told the staff (who were hovering around us the whole time) that we were going to our room. We were told the manager was coming at midday. So we planned to wait until then to at least find out what could be done. While part of us was resigned to just staying here, a larger part was frustrated at being wronged. So we decided to take action, and Leon was able to sneak out and walk to the hotel we had booked. When he got there, they were super helpful. That being said, funnily enough, they had no record of our booking. After showing the evidence of the booking on his phone, Leon then double-checked the room and rooftop, confirming the hotel as correct. They then kindly provided a driver to get him back to Jenn, who was waiting intently for communication on WhatsApp. On return to the wrong hotel, sure enough, the concierge and someone who looked more official were waiting in the stairwell. And they were shocked when Leon turned up. He told them that we had sorted the situation and just wanted to get our luggage and go. We had a car waiting. Almost barring Leon from entry, they were insisting we stay there and that the other hotel couldn't know about our booking. It was a white lie that they did, but at this point, it was time for us to start taking control. After Leon managed to get a sly message to Jenn, who had already heard the commotion, she brought our bags to the door behind the staff and demanded that they allow us to leave. At this point, their stance softened, and they briefly offered a tour in exchange for the money we paid, and we said we would let them know. We mooted a refund, which they danced around quite well. We made it out, and thankfully, our driver was still outside and got us to our correct hotel. The original hotel had no reservation from us. But they accommodated the situation, and we found them to be super kind and helpful. We were both stressed and deeply frustrated that our excitement about being here was being dampened by all of this. And of course, having to pay again for our correct hotel. A few days later, Leon went back to the scam hotel, asking for a refund. For over 2 hours, they insisted it was impossible, as we had to cancel the booking on booking.com, which we proved there was no way we could do, as we booked on Agoda. Eventually, they agreed to pay us cash, after deducting 2 nights, as we 'checked out' at 1 pm (shocking!). They also deducted their commission (also shocking) and a card ATM fee (what?!). We settled on 53 USD in the end, meaning this whole debacle had cost us over 100 dollars. The way we see it, that is their karma. Agoda's support was useless, and we lost money to a scam coordinated between the wrong hotel and the booking platforms. Our advice? Never use Agoda (in Egypt anyway).  If it can happen to full-time travelers, it can happen to anyone. The balcony view at our ACTUAL hotel, the Best View Pyramids, where we eventually stayed for 2 weeks. Watch on YouTube What was supposed to be a dream trip to Egypt turned into a 4 a.m. nightmare in Giza. Our first time using Agoda—and somehow, the wrong hotel picked us up. They had our names, our flight info… everything. What happened next still doesn’t make sense. We filmed this the same day, raw, unfiltered, no extras, just us telling the story while it was fresh. Did the hotel know? Did Agoda make a mistake? Were they both in on it? We may never know. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like  and subscribe ! Your support truly is invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Overpriced Tours & Misleading Promises from Hotels Jenn and Leon at the majestic pyramids of Giza, surrounded by camels and rich history. We purchased a USD 350 “VIP tour” through our now correct hotel. The itinerary sounded impressive: a horse carriage ride around the Pyramids, entry to the Egyptian Museum, visits to a mosque and church, a buggy ride in the desert, and a trip to Saqqara. What we actually got was a patchwork of uncoordinated drivers, sketchy ATVs, and upselling at every turn. On the first day, no one knew about our pyramids ride. A random horse carriage driver was pulled in off the street, and he spent the whole journey begging us not to tell the hotel; he said he wasn’t paid and pleaded for a tip. We gave him 30 USD, feeling sorry for him, not realizing this was going to become a common theme amongst those supposedly working for/with the hotel. Jenn and Leon explore the vast Sahara on ATVs with the iconic Pyramids of Giza as their stunning backdrop. The ATV arrived later that day, and it wasn’t the buggy they described. It had no top, no helmets, and it needed a tire change halfway through. We did enjoy the desert views, but it lasted only 20 minutes, and we didn’t get to see the full sunset. Jenn didn’t feel safe riding it, and again, the driver asked for extra money, showing us photos of 'his' decrepit home. Having the tire changed was concerning. It was not low but had almost come off! The second day was better. Our guide, George, was great, and we genuinely enjoyed visiting Saqqara and the other cultural sites (Djoser Pyramids, St. George's Church, and the Mahamad Ali Mosque). But even then, we had to pay for all entrance tickets, fend off hawkers, and deal with nonstop tipping expectations. Lunch was included both days. It was delicious koshari, but we later found out it cost less than a dollar locally. Yet again, we were overcharged heavily. Yet again, we were given poor value for money. To the hotel’s credit, they did try to make amends after we complained. They upgraded us to their best room, gave us lots of free drinks and food, and offered a free Nile dinner cruise. Unfortunately, though, even that came with its own issues. A delectable serving of Egyptian koshari, packed with flavors and textures, offers an impressive taste experience at a surprisingly low cost. The Scammy Nile Dinner Cruise The cruise was pitched as a romantic evening with river views, dinner, and live entertainment. What we got was a buffet meal in a packed dining room with barely any view of the Nile. Entertainment was short; singers and dancers performed for a few minutes. Then, the same entertainers circled every table with a photographer pushing overpriced photos onto every guest. No option to decline politely; they hovered, waited, and made it a little awkward. To top it off, our drinks came to $13. We handed over a crisp $50 and $5. The server returned with a crumpled $50, claiming it was fake. We knew it wasn’t. We marched up to the counter, demanded to see the manager, and called them out for trying to scam us. They tried to push card payment, adding a “5% service fee.” We refused. Eventually, they gave us our change (after George came over), but even that included a ripped $20 note. We made them swap that, too. It felt like being played from start to finish. We thought it was weird at first that our driver joined us on the cruise, sitting at our table, even. But very thankful in the end, as he helped avoid yet another scam. Giza & Cairo Street Scams—A Constant Battle Giza is one of the world’s most iconic destinations, but walking its streets can be overwhelming. You can’t take ten steps without someone approaching. The intro is always the same: “Where are you from?” or “Welcome to Egypt!” It might seem friendly, but it always ends in a sales pitch for a ride, a tour, a shop, or most commonly, a tip. Jenn brought her own scarf to visit the Mohammad Ali mosque. A man offered to help wrap it, then immediately asked for money. At Saqqara, someone offered to show us a “hidden area,” which we declined, and then followed us around the whole pyramid, demanding payment. Prices change constantly. A drink might be 50 EGP one day and 100 the next. We were offered a ride to Alexandria for 5000 EGP, and when we said no, the price dropped to 3500. Online? It was 1500. One frustrating pattern we noticed was that some restaurants and small stores don’t display prices at all. This leaves tourists wide open to price gouging. The same item could be double what a local pays, depending on the day, your appearance, or whether you ask first. If prices aren’t shown, ask upfront, and be prepared to walk away. We’ve tried to help where we can. We’ve bought extra meals to give to people on the streets. But the pushing never stops. And kindness is rarely just kindness. The Reality Behind Giza’s Poverty Giza is the gateway to one of the greatest wonders of the ancient world. But step outside the pyramid complex, and you’ll see a different reality. The poverty here is undeniable. Streets are often covered in litter. Buildings look half-finished. Roads are in bad shape. There is animal muck and garbage everywhere. Bad smells waft and linger. And people are desperate. The disparity between ancient grandeur and modern poverty is jarring. Tourism is vital to Egypt’s economy, but not everyone benefits. This gap creates a nonstop hustle, where every tourist is an opportunity. Camels, horses, and rickshaws are everywhere on the dusty roads, most of which are just dirt and sand, with limited paving and sidewalks. There are no garbage cans anywhere. Many locals are simply trying to survive, but the tactics used can feel aggressive and exhausting. Hotel entrances, ATMs, and restaurants are magnets for hawkers and well-trained kids asking for money and food. After a few hours, it feels like you just want to go home. Back in the hotel, it is hard to leave. It’s a tough cycle. And as a tourist, you’ll feel it every day. Scams to Watch Out For—Real Examples from the Street Here are some of the most common scams in Egypt, based on what we experienced and what fellow travelers told us: ⪢ Fake Guides & Impersonators People pretending to be police, guards, or site officials will offer you facts or directions, then demand money. Sometimes they claim to be mandatory guides. They’re not. ⪢ Fake Ticket Sellers Dressed as Staff Outside many major attractions like the Egyptian Museum or the Pyramids, you may find people in uniform-style clothing offering to sell tickets. Some even wear lanyards to look official. Always buy your tickets directly from the designated ticket booth . We heard multiple stories of tourists being scammed with fake entry tickets that either weren’t valid or didn’t include full access. ⪢ Papyrus, Perfume & Souvenir Shops Many shops near major attractions lure you in with “gifts” or free demonstrations. Prices often start low, then escalate quickly. We were advised by locals not to buy from these shops, and we agree. ⪢ The “Helpful Local” Trick Someone offers directions or help with your scarf or camera, only to follow it with a demand for money. Even a simple “hello” can be a sales pitch. ⪢ Uber Cancellations & Cash Demands One scam that didn’t happen to us directly, but did happen to another guest we spoke with: A driver accepts your Uber ride, turns up, cancels it on the app, and demands cash, often at an inflated price. If you say no, they refuse the ride. ⪢ Money Handling & Counterfeit Notes Be extremely careful when paying with large notes. Several places tried to switch our bills and claim they were fake. Always hand over cash in plain sight and insist on change immediately. Egyptian cash denominations also look very similar... be very careful when paying or receiving change! How to Avoid Scams in Egypt There’s no foolproof way to avoid every scam, but being aware and assertive helps a lot. Here’s what worked for us: Don’t use Agoda. Always confirm bookings directly with the hotel. Use Uber or in-app transport, but confirm the license plate and name before getting in. Book tours with reputable operators, not via random hotel staff. Don’t engage with anyone offering something for “free.” Keep small change handy to avoid giving large bills. Be direct. Don’t be afraid to say “no” and walk away. If something feels off, trust your instincts. Not Everything Is a Scam—Sometimes It’s Just Survival It’s important to say this: not everything in Egypt is a scam. Sometimes what feels like pushiness is just people hustling the only way they know how. Yes, Giza is intense. And yes, Cairo can feel overwhelming. You’ll be told to watch your wallet, ignore street vendors, and walk fast with your head down. We get it, and we’ve done that too. But here’s the thing: Giza in particular requires a bit of a mindset shift. If you're coming from places like Europe , Canada , or the U.S. , chances are you’re used to tipping 10–20% without thinking twice. That’s 5, 10, sometimes 20 USD or more for a meal or a cab ride. In Egypt, a tip of 300 EGP is barely 5 USD, but to someone on the street here, that can make a real difference. We’re not saying you should hand out money left and right or treat yourself like a walking ATM. But if you’re planning a trip here, it’s worth setting aside a small tip budget. Something like 10–15 USD a day is more than enough, and it goes a long way. Tip your hotel staff. Tip your driver. Tip your waiter. They’re likely underpaid (or often not at all) and genuinely trying to make your experience better. That being said, be very careful when you pull out your wallet in public. The moment money becomes visible, expect attention, and sometimes a lot of it. We’ve had people surround us within seconds. As many Egyptians joke, “They can smell dollars from a mile away.” Be generous, but also be smart. What to Say & Do to Deflect Scammers Simple, firm replies work best. Avoid eye contact and don’t get drawn into friendly small talk. Here are phrases we’ve used that helped: “No, thank you.” “I have a guide.” “I’m not interested.” “No photos.” “No shopping today.” Or, answer in another language, like Spanish or French... it works! Avoid shaking hands, accepting offers to help, or looking like you’re unsure of where you’re going. What Not to Do in Egypt as a Tourist To avoid becoming a target: Don’t flash your wallet, phone, or camera. Don’t accept help from strangers unless it's a clear emergency. Don’t assume kindness is free; in many cases, it isn’t. Don’t walk into shops “just to look.” Don’t agree to vague “VIP” or “custom” tour offers. Don’t hand over your phone, passport, or large amounts of cash to anyone. Egypt Travel Scams FAQ – What You Really Need to Know Is Egypt dangerous for tourists? Not in terms of violence, but the pressure, scams, and intensity of street interactions can be mentally exhausting. You need to be firm and constantly alert. What should I do if I get scammed? If possible, speak directly to a manager or authority figure on-site. If you booked online, file a complaint with screenshots and full detail. But be realistic, and know that getting a refund isn’t always possible. Can I still use platforms like Booking.com or Airbnb? Yes, but always double-confirm your reservation with the property itself via WhatsApp or email before arrival. Agoda is the only one we absolutely do not recommend. Is tipping expected or mandatory? It’s not mandatory, but it is expected. People will ask for tips for things you never agreed to. Carry small notes so you’re not pressured to overpay. Are any tours or guides trustworthy? Yes, but find them through verified platforms or recommendations, not through street touts or unverified hotel staff. Can I trust Uber in Egypt? Generally, yes. But watch out for drivers who cancel and insist on cash. Always confirm the driver details before getting in. Are souvenirs in Egypt legit? Some are. But a lot of what’s sold near major attractions is mass-produced or overpriced. Try to find proper artisan shops if you want something authentic. How do I avoid being followed or harassed? Stay confident, walk with purpose, and be ready to say no. If someone follows you, ignore them, or tell them firmly to stop. 'La choukran' (no thank you) also helps. Can you visit Egypt on a budget without getting scammed? Yes, but it’s tough. Prices fluctuate wildly, and you’ll often pay more as a tourist. Always compare and negotiate where you can. Is it still worth visiting Egypt? Yes, but come prepared. It’s not a laid-back holiday. It's wild, beautiful, frustrating, and unforgettable all at once. Our Experience Rating: Giza, Egypt We don’t regret coming back to Egypt, but it’s been intense. The sights are unmatched. The food is delicious. But the constant scamming, tipping pressure, and price gouging wear you down. That said, we also met wonderful people. We gave food and money when we could. But tourists can’t fix a broken system. Come with your eyes wide open. You’ll need them. Related Links El Gouna Luxury Trip ATV Desert Ride in El Gouna Luxor Day Tour from El Gouna Best Travel Resources for Egypt Find hotel Deals in Giza Best eSIM for Travel in Egypt Travel Resources

Welcome to the first post in our India series! We spent 12 days touring 5 cities in the world's most populated country. This was a trip of epic proportions, as we planned to move around on trains, planes, buses, taxis, and rickshaws. We certainly did that and more! In this post, we will give you a bit of background as to why we went to India , along with a sneak peek at what is to come in the series. To give context, the story of India begins back in a pool hall in Kuala Lumpur, where we were spending a super fun evening with our travel buddies Jackson and Marjo. Our friends are relatively new to full-time travel, having left the Netherlands and starting their world trip just a few months ago. For us, it has been over four years. In This Post... ● Why Did We Travel to India? ● What Was Our Plan? ● What is in Our India Series? ● Up Next: Day One in New Delhi ● Watch on YouTube ● Travel Resources Why Did We Travel to India? As seasoned travelers, we always knew that India would be a big travel project. Many hours of research on YouTube will tell you this is not exactly a country for beginners. There is so much to India, and it requires some serious planning. That being said, it is a gateway to connecting with the world's largest population, immersing in a unique culture that has been around for centuries. So we all discussed it over a few beers; we all cheered and high-fived, as we all agreed, and got super excited to be going to the land of the rising sun with Jackson and Marjo. Our friends, whom we had met in Jakarta back in July, had gone on to join up with us in Langkawi in Malaysia , before heading to Kuala Lumpur. It was the perfect scenario, as traveling as a group of four is far more assuring than just two, not just for the fun, but also for security, safety, and support. India is a notoriously hectic place, and this is something we could all agree on for sure. While our friends were en route to Cambodia and Thailand after Kuala Lumpur, we went out to the Philippines for a month. We then flew to Singapore for an epic few days before taking a bus to Malacca (Malaysia). After a few days there, we were back on the road, this time taking a coach back to Kuala Lumpur for a night. Then, the date had approached, September 11th. It was time for India. In all truth, we had the time to plan India in the Philippines , as we had been there for a month in the same spot. Jenn does a large majority of our planning and has mapped out an itinerary, with our friends happy to join us. We all had certain spots that we wanted to see too, such as the Taj Mahal and the Wagah Border Crossing in Punjab. What Was Our Plan? So we planned to start in New Delhi for a couple of days and check out places like the famous Connaught Circle, Akshardham Temple, and the India Gate . Our hotel was booked, and we opted for a more budget option here. We had then booked train tickets to go to Agra for a few days, for a hotel with a rooftop view of the Taj, and then from there we were taking a 6-hour coach ride to Jaipur. The City Palace, Hawah Mahal, and the famous Nahargarh Fort awaited us, with a plan to take another coach from there to Udaipur, the city of lakes. From Udaipur, we would then fly to Mumbai before checking out Goa, Kerala, and Chennai. It was a massive route across both the North and South, and we were a little daunted but prepared for it. Needless to say, things did not work out exactly as we had hoped. India was full of drama, with major highs and major lows. It was also super challenging on so many levels, with every ounce of strength, stamina, emotion, and endurance tested. We managed to accomplish half of our list, which we are happy about. It is a tad bittersweet, as we had no choice but to leave, and we kind of wish we had started in the 'calmer' south before hitting the north. But it is what it is! What Will You Find in Our India Series? In this India series, we are trying something a little different from our 'normal' blogs. While we still plan to provide you with the best sights, food, accommodations, and more, we will be telling the story from a more day-to-day perspective. India left such an indelible mark on us, and as much as we want to promote the country and tourism there, we have to tell it as it is. So that will include all of it: all of the things we saw, the people we met, how we felt as foreigners, the testing times we experienced, and, of course, our true thoughts and learnings from the country. Our India adventure will be told from a day-to-day angle, and there are 12 jam-packed days to get through! We are excited to have you here, and we can't wait to bring you the sights and delights, the rough and tough, and all the in-between. India Travel Tip: Consider Taking a Tour One of the most popular ways to explore India is by guided tour. Skip the line for the Taj Mahal , tour cities like Mumbai and Delhi , or enjoy the wonderful sights in Udaipur and Jaipur. Check out a host of different options with GetYourGuide. No matter where your travels take you, GetYourGuide offers the best way to connect with your destination. 🎟️  Book your tickets here Coming Up: Day One in New Delhi We arrived at Indira Gandhi International Airport after a long travel day, pretty late in the evening. We were weary and tired and most grateful that our first hotel had been able to arrange a pickup service directly from the airport. Finding our driver was easy, but from then on, we had to contend with India's own Lewis Hamilton on the G20-laden roads out of the airport. (It was a wild drive for sure!) Our room at the Staybook Hotel—the photo does not tell the full story! After some pretty intense moments for our first take on India's infamous roads, we eventually made it to the Staybook—Hotel City Stories—By Aira Xing, Paharganj. Well, at least that is what it is called on Expedia . What looked like an excellent 4-star hotel online became a 2-star reality. So much so that we barely took footage from it! It was not clean at all and very run-down. Shocking, actually. We were sad, but after meeting our friends (who also booked the same hotel), we felt better. The staff was very friendly too, which helped. But more on all of that next time! Day one was new, and we were all super pumped to get out and about and explore New Delhi. We decided on Connaught Place, the famous business hub known for its circular Georgian-style buildings. After a crazy first time SIX IN A RICKSHAW ride, we were dropped off in the wrong place, at what felt like a scam 'tourist shelter,' and then eventually found ourselves at a zombie bar where we went on to spend no less than EIGHT HOURS! Why We DIDN'T Want to Stay at the Staybook Hotel in New Delhi The water was so bad we couldn't even shower! The hotel is totally different from the photos online, too. Our review of this budget hotel in Delhi. Scam in India, SIX in a Rickshaw, Connaught Place, and Dr Zombie Experience the chaos and charm of Connaught Place in New Delhi! Join us as we navigate through scams, rickshaws, and a very unique eatery! Watch Our First Impressions of India on YouTube This is our first time visiting New Delhi, and the sights, smells, sounds, and energy of this city hit us like nowhere else on Earth. With a population of over 34 million, Delhi is massive, loud, and alive—and we’re diving right into the chaos and beauty. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like  and subscribe ! Your support truly is invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Travel Resources