The Soul of North India: What I Found in Colour, Chaos and Calm

Written on Friday, June 6, 2025 by

India is a place that fills your senses from the moment you arrive. It’s vibrant, complex, and full of contrasts – where ancient traditions and everyday life flow side by side. From the electric energy of Old Delhi to the silent sunrise over the Taj Mahal, every moment was a reminder of the magic that travel brings. I’ve returned with stories to share and a deep appreciation for a destination that somehow humbles and energises you all at once.

Journey Highlights

A 10-day sensory journey through North India

This adventure took me through the heart of Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and Udaipur. Each offering its own rhythm, beauty, and contrast. From the chaotic charm of Delhi’s old quarters to the calm lakes of Udaipur, this journey was a mosaic of culture, colour, and deeply moving moments. It wasn’t just the iconic landmarks or luxurious hotels that stayed with me, but the quiet encounters, the flavours, and the feelings that made it all unforgettable.

What I Discovered

Places to Stay

Each hotel we stayed in was more than just a place to rest – it became part of the journey itself. The heritage, service, and thoughtful touches at India’s finest properties – from The Oberoi Amarvilas overlooking the Taj Mahal to Udaivilas set by the lake in Udaipur – offered the perfect blend of indulgence and immersion. These are places that envelop you in comfort while keeping you grounded in the culture around you.

Delhi – A City of Contrasts

My journey began in Delhi, where centuries-old traditions meet the pulse of the present. One of my most memorable moments was navigating the narrow lanes of Old Delhi in a rickshaw – heart racing, senses overloaded, and loving every second. The spice markets were a riot of colour and scent, a place where time felt suspended.

A special moment was visiting Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, a Sikh temple where thousands are fed daily through a volunteer-run community kitchen. Helping prepare food alongside locals, I was struck by the generosity and humility embedded in everyday life here. It was a moment of reflection – and a reminder of how much we can learn from other cultures.

The Taj Mahal – A Dream Realised

There are very few places in the world that live up to the hype. The Taj Mahal surpassed every expectation. Seeing it at sunrise, bathed in golden light, was a moment I’ll never forget. It’s not just a monument – it’s a story of love, grief, devotion and beauty that’s etched in every stone. I was genuinely moved.

Jaipur – The Pink City

Jaipur sparkled with vibrant colours, majestic forts, and friendly faces. From the amber walls of the Amer Fort to the intricate observatory at Jantar Mantar, the city is an architectural treasure. But it was the quieter experiences that stole my heart – sipping chai in the bazaar, wearing a traditional sari for dinner at the Rambagh Palace, and meeting artisans who still practise their craft by hand.

A highlight was visiting Dera Amer, a peaceful farm where elephants once used in tourism now live freely and are cared for with compassion. Walking beside them in the open wilderness was grounding and awe-inspiring.

Udaipur – India’s Tranquil Soul

We ended our journey in Udaipur, a city wrapped in lakes and hills, often called the Venice of the East. It was serene, romantic, and a complete contrast to the bustle of Delhi. A sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola, past ghats and palaces, was like stepping into a painting. This city invites you to slow down and simply be.

Travel with Intention

Everywhere I went, there was an opportunity to connect – not just with the place, but with the people, the culture, and even with myself. That’s the beauty of India. It opens you up. It challenges you. And it offers a thousand tiny moments of joy and insight along the way.

Thoughtfully Curated Moments

So much of what made this trip special was how seamlessly it all came together. With the support of Peirce & Leslie, every detail was thoughtfully arranged – from perfect timing at busy landmarks to quiet, unexpected moments that felt truly personal. Their insight and care allowed me to focus on being present and immersed in each experience.

Local Moments That Stayed With Me

In Delhi, I joined volunteers at a Sikh temple preparing meals for thousands – an act of service that felt deeply moving. At a stepwell in Abhaneri, I stood in awe of ancient architecture built not just for beauty, but for community survival. In the bazaars of Jaipur, I wandered past textile stalls, spice shops and artisans still practising their craft by hand. And in Udaipur, floating past ghats and palaces on a sunset boat ride, I saw a gentler, slower rhythm of life unfold around me.

These were the kinds of moments that gently shift your perspective – reminders of how rich and layered the world truly is.

Reflections

Travel has a way of transforming you – and India certainly did that for me. I came back not only with incredible memories and cultural insight, but with even greater excitement to share this destination with others. It reminded me of why I do what I do – helping others experience the world in ways that are deeply meaningful.

Feeling Inspired?

If India has been calling your name, now is the time to answer. Whether you’re seeking soulful cities, royal retreats, or unforgettable encounters, we can design a journey that captures the magic I experienced – and tailors it to you completely.

Get in touch and let’s create your India story.

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