This was, without doubt, my greatest adventure to date – not just because of what I saw and experienced, but because of the sheer journey it took to get there. 

From London to Doha, then Doha to New Delhi (thank you Qatar Airways) then a further flight from New Delhi to Chandigarh, followed by a three-hour drive into the Himalayan foothills – it was already a test of stamina.

But the route didn’t end there. After four days exploring the temples and sacred spaces of Himachal Pradesh, I retraced my path back to Chandigarh for another flight – this time to Lucknow – before making the connection on to Agra. Where I spent three days immersing myself in the city’s history, culture, and rhythm of daily life.

By the time I finally stood in front of the Taj Mahal, I had taken five flights, passed through four airports, and driven countless winding roads. The journey itself felt like a pilgrimage, each connection drawing me closer to India’s heart.

Wandering Himachal Pradesh – A Sacred Journey

My trip officially began in the cool, mountain-wrapped beauty of Himachal Pradesh, where spirituality flows as freely as the rivers. The winding roads carried me through towns where prayer flags fluttered in the breeze and temples stood quietly, each with its own story.

From the ornate wooden carvings of local village temples to the serene stillness of monasteries perched high on hillsides, every stop carried a sense of devotion. What struck me most wasn’t just the architecture, but the way daily life and spirituality blend so naturally here. Monks and schoolchildren, pilgrims and travellers – all moving through the same shared spaces with warmth and respect.

The Himalayan light seemed to paint everything brighter: golden temple roofs, crimson robes, and the deep greens and blues of the valleys. Every view, every chant, every shared smile felt like an invitation to slow down and soak it in.

The Colour of Culture – A Carpet Shop Encounter

As the journey wound on, one of my most memorable encounters came not in a temple, but in a family-run carpet shop. I stepped inside and was instantly surrounded by rich hues – crimson, sapphire, emerald – woven into intricate patterns that seemed alive.

The family welcomed me like an old friend, proudly demonstrating the painstaking techniques passed down through generations. Their hands moved with such skill and precision, and I couldn’t help but marvel at how much artistry, patience, and heritage was knotted into every thread.

Standing there, I realised these carpets weren’t just souvenirs; they were stories woven in wool, carrying centuries of tradition. The photo I took that day is still one of my favourites – a snapshot of living culture, of family, of India’s endless creativity.

Three Days in Agra – Beyond the Taj Mahal

When I finally arrived in Agra, I gave myself three full days to explore the city and its surroundings. The red sandstone walls of Agra Fort, the delicately carved tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah (often called the ‘Baby Taj’), and the bustling streets lined with spice shops and artisans’ stalls revealed a side of Agra that many visitors overlook.

Each day added layers to my understanding of India – its Mughal history, its artistic traditions, and its vibrant street life. And yet, there was always the unspoken anticipation of what was to come: the moment I would finally stand before the Taj Mahal.

Culminating at the Taj Mahal

No journey through India feels complete without visiting Agra’s jewel – the Taj Mahal. And yet, even with its fame and countless photographs, nothing prepares you for that first glimpse.

As the sun rose and the marble shifted from pale pink to glowing white, I stood quietly among the crowds, feeling a lump rise in my throat. The Taj isn’t just a monument – it’s a symbol of love, endurance, and beauty that transcends time. After days of temples, monasteries, cultural encounters, and countless miles travelled, this moment felt like the perfect culmination.

Why This Journey Stays With Me

What makes India unforgettable isn’t just its landmarks – though they are extraordinary – but its people, its stories, and the way it invites you to be more open, more curious, and more alive.

I left with more than memories. I left with friendships, with lessons, and with a deep appreciation for the way culture and spirituality are woven seamlessly into daily life here.

And I know this: India has a way of calling you back.