The Hidden Wonders of South Korea

Located to the east of China and to the west of Japan, South Korea. As the southern part of the Korean peninsula, South Korea shares a land border only with North Korea. The country is largely covered by mountainous areas. Around 50 million people live in this country, and according to the United Nations Development Programme’s Human Development Report, it has the second highest standard of living in Asia – just behind its neighbours Japan.

With a rich history, and really good infrastructure, South Korea tour packages from India are a great idea – and offer something a little bit different from the usual countries we travel to.
It’s almost certain that any South Korea tour packages from India will start in Seoul – the capital city. While there you should take in some of the sights of the city before moving onto other places. Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of the most worthwhile sights to visit. In the north of Seoul, this palace was once the seat of power and was the most important of the ‘Five Grand Palaces’ built during the reign of the Joseon Dynasty. It was originally built in the late 1300s, and during its long history has been burned to the ground, abandoned and rebuilt once more.

Changdeok Palace is close to Gyeongbokgung, and worth looking around. And in the middle of these two royal residences Bukchon village – a community of traditional Korean houses, made of wood and surrounded by charming courtyards. Before leaving Seoul, we recommend you get a glimpse of the whole of the capital from up above. The best way to do this is to climb up Bugaksan mountain. From the top you get amazing views.

Your South Korea tour package from India shouldn’t only include Seoul of course. A visit to Gyeongju will give you the opportunity to experience the Silla heritage and over 200 of their distinctive tombs. A trip to the Haeinsa Temple will give you the chance to view the most comprehensive collection of Buddhist texts in the world. And before you leave this amazing country, be sure to try a traditional Korean barbeque – a real treat.

The Grandiose Golden Triangle

When international travellers talk of trips to India, the Golden Triangle is never far from their lips. “If you’re going to India,” they will say “make sure you do the Golden Triangle”. And whenever an itinerary is planned for the subcontinent, the Golden Triangle is the first to be added – right up there at the top of the list. With this being the starting point for many, they’ll then structure the rest of their trip around it.

Tour packages for Golden Triangle obviously include the three places which make up this three-sided shape – New Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. However, what you do in each of these places is totally up to you. They all of have plenty of great sights to see and activities to take part in – so a little research beforehand will help you to ensure your package is tailor made to your needs and wants.

In Agra, the options are fewer than Delhi or Jaipur, but there’s still plenty to keep you busy for a couple of days. The Taj Mahal – that iconic monument to love – is the obvious place to include in your tour package for Golden Triangle right away. But while in Agra, it’s well worth taking a quick trip down the road to the Agra Fort. If the Taj Mahal demonstrates the romance of the Mughal Empire, Agra Fort show its might through this imposing structure.

About forty kilometres away from Agra (and very to the road to Jaipur) is Fatehpur Sikri. This deserted city is over 400 years old, but was barely used. It was built as the capital of the Mughal Empire, but soon after its completion Akbar and his people realised that water was scarce, and so they all left pretty sharpish. Nevertheless, it’s a city that’s well worth a few hours of your time.

In Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan and known as the Pink City, consider visiting Hawa Mahal, the City Palace, Amber Fort, Jantar Mantar and the Albert Hall Museum. And in Delhi, be sure to include India Gate, Jama Masjid, Mehrauli Archaeological Park, Humayan’s Tomb and the Akshardham complex as part of any tour packages for Golden Triangle.