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Best 250+ Golden Triangle tours in India with 5,444 reviews

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Golden Triangle

Jam packed days and nights experiencing the REAL INDIA, from the backstreets of Delhi to the mesmerising Taj Mahal.

5 Days Private Golden Triangle India tour from New Delhi

It was good to see the sights with guides that knew the history of the places visited. Well worth going on.

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

India's Golden Triangle

Awesome tour! Sab was great, very knowledgeable, best tour guide ever!

Luxury 3 Day Golden Triangle With 5 star Hotel

We saw and learned a lot. I highly recommend this trip to anyone interested in seeing a slice on Indian life and learning about Indian culture.

Golden Triangle Tour - 3 Days

We saw some very beautiful and interesting places. Great experience.

India's Bestseller - 5 Day Golden Triangle - Delhi, Agra & Jaipur (Guaranteed Departure)

The sites shown on this tour are amazing and beautiful, exactly what you would want to see, and the restaurants are pretty good too.

Premium India in Depth

The restaurants and food were amazing, and no one was unwell on the trip.

Taj Mahal, Tiger and Pink City

We absolutely loved our local guide in Jaipur. He was so professional, knowledgeable and quick that we felt we were very well taken care of.

India's Top Selling Golden Triangle India Tour w/ Meals and Sunrise Taj Mahal

Accommodations were excellent. I highly recommend this tour.

Premium India

The tour was enlightening culturally, stimulating from the history perspective and enjoyable as the group melded really well.

What people love about Golden Triangle Tours

Although I LOVED everything about this trip, I have to say that the experience was 10 times enhanced by our amazing CEO, Manvendra. He went above and beyond and truly made this the trip of a lifetime

Amazing travel through the Golden Triangle. A Company that really cares about the customer experience. Excellent safe driver Dinesh.Not only a great driiver but also very charming and considerate . Excellent value for money.

Toll organisierte Rundreise von Delhi über Jaipur und Agra retour nach Delhi. Indien erlebt man in dieser Woche vielseitig und der Tour Guide sorgte nicht nur für eine einwandfreie Organisation sondern hatte haufenweise Details und Geschichten über die indische Kultur zu erzählen.

Top operators

"Although I LOVED everything about this trip, I have to say that the experience was 10 times enhanced by our amazing CEO, Manvendra. He went above and beyond and truly made this the trip of a lifetime

G Adventures is an expert in:

"Toll organisierte Rundreise von Delhi über Jaipur und Agra retour nach Delhi. Indien erlebt man in dieser Woche vielseitig und der Tour Guide sorgte nicht nur für eine einwandfreie Organisation sondern hatte haufenweise Details und Geschichten über die indische Kultur zu erzählen.

Intrepid Travel is an expert in:

"The trip overall was excellent. A fantastic guide with Satish, itinerary great, food excellent and a great group.

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The Ultimate Guide to India’s Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle is a popular tourist circuit in Northern India. 

In fact, it’s the most popular part of the country for visitors. It encompasses the triangular region between New Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, with every city located around 125 miles from the others. 

These days, the Golden Triangle receives a bit of a mixed write-up and before I touched down in Delhi, I was fully expecting to be disappointed by my week there. 

I’m not a fan of tourist-filled destinations, and I’d read plenty of articles concentrating on how you should skip over the Golden Triangle entirely. So many people said that visiting would mean contributing to overtourism and that the true jewels of India lay outside this area.

Usually, that would be enough to have me running for the mountains, but, well, can you imagine travelling to India and not seeing the Taj Mahal? I couldn’t, so I planned for a week in the Golden Triangle and held my breath, wondering if it would be a decision I’d come to regret.

To my great surprise, I loved my time here!

I arrived with low expectations, yet adored every second I spent exploring these three wonderful cities. Today, I’m excited to share why I fell in love with this region of India and how you can make sure you have just as wonderful a trip there.  

Where is the Golden Triangle?

As you can see from the map, the Golden Triangle comprises an almost equilateral triangle, with New Delhi at the top, Agra on the bottom-right, and Jaipur on the bottom-left. The distance between New Delhi and Agra is 233 km, Agra and Jaipur is 237 km, and Jaipur and Delhi is 273 km. 

Most travellers fly into New Delhi, travel next to Agra, and then finish up in Jaipur, which is exactly what I chose to do. From that point, you can either venture back into New Delhi to leave the country, or continue travelling. The most popular next destinations for first-time visitors to India include the region of Rajasthan, as well as Mumbai, Varanasi, and Goa. 

It doesn’t really matter which direction you travel around the Golden Triangle, as there are so many transportation options to choose from between each place.

Why Should You Spend Time There?

Most people opt to visit the Golden Triangle because they see it as a way to ease into India travel. Visiting this part of the country showers you with incredible sites and it’s relatively easy to get around them all. There’s a well-worn tourist trail, excellent accommodation, plenty of transportation, lots of English spoken, and many attractions that are worth seeing. Here’s what I loved about it:

There are the most incredible monuments:  The Taj Mahal receives all the glory and attention — and rightly so — but there’s so much more to see; structures that are almost as mind-blowing. I was particularly impressed by Jama Masjid, Humayun’s Tomb, Lodhi Garden, and Qutub Minar in Delhi. In Agra, Agra Fort and Itimad Ud Daulah Tomb were magnificent. And in Jaipur , I was blown away by Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort, and Jantar Mantar. Between Agra and Jaipur, I was spellbound by Fatehpur Sikri and Chand Baori. It felt like every few hours in the Golden Triangle I was witnessing one of the most spectacular sights of my life. 

You can see three distinct parts of the country:  Sure, you’re only seeing three cities, but doing so will give you a taste for three different regions. Jaipur will introduce you to the desert state of Rajasthan, Agra is in Uttar Pradesh, the state that’s known for its religious landmarks and pilgrimages, and Delhi is Delhi: there’s nowhere else in the world quite like it.

You’ll be exposed to plenty of confusion:  Arriving in Delhi for the first time is an experience in itself. The smells that hit you as you step off the plane, the chaos of wandering the streets of Old Delhi, the crumbling buildings, the relentless sound of horns, the breathtaking temples and monuments, the incredible smells of dishes you’ve never heard of before, the colours, the crowds, the cultural immersion. It’s one of my favourite cities in the world because I can’t get enough of its chaos.

It’s an experience that every visitor of India ends up powering through, and you can get all of that iconic culture shock while exploring the Golden Triangle.

But it’s also pretty easy:  It’s easy to get around by taking Ubers, it’s easy to book train tickets online and in advance, it’s easy to get around with Google Maps, everyone speaks English… Sure, you’ll be tending to the assault on your senses, but you’ll also feel safe as you do so. So many tourists visit the Golden Triangle, which makes it set up for visitors and easy to travel around. 

There are options for all budgets:  Want to get by on less than $10 a day? You can do that if you want to also skip out on all of the tourist attractions! I don’t recommend doing it, though. Want one of your most luxurious vacations at some of the best value prices? You can definitely do that, too! I travelled on a mid-range budget of around $30 a day and was astonished by how inexpensive everything was, from accommodation to transportation to food. 

How Long Does it Take to See the Golden Triangle?

Most people choose to spend between three and seven days to cover the entire Golden Triangle, but I recommend a week as an absolute minimum. I opted for seven nights and eight days there and it felt like the perfect amount of time. 

I spent four nights in New Delhi , one night in Agra, and two nights in Jaipur. If I’d had any extra days, I’d have likely added one to Agra to slow down the travel a little, but I didn’t really feel like it was needed. 

Seven days, to me, is the perfect length of time to spend here. 

How Do You Get Around?

I recommend taking the train from New Delhi to Agra, then hiring a driver to take you from Agra to Jaipur.

Taking the train from New Delhi to Agra is incredibly easy if you book in advance with 12Go Asia . Tickets for trains are released four months in advance, and it’s a simple process to buy them online. I took the Gatimaan Express — the fastest train in India — that left from Hazrat Nizamuddin station in New Delhi at 8:10 a.m. and arrived at Agra Cantt by 09:55 a.m. Tickets for A/C chair car carriages were just under $16 each and included a breakfast and bottle of water. 

I recommend hiring a driver over taking a train between Agra and Jaipur, because there are so many interesting sites to see between the two cities. There’s no need to worry about booking a driver in advance, either — we asked at reception at our homestay in Agra the day before we wanted to leave and they arranged a driver for us for a reasonable price: 5000₹/$70 for around eight hours in the car, stopping at both Fatehpur Sikri and Abhaneri. 

When’s the Best Time to Visit?

There isn’t a truly terrible time to visit this part of the world. All four seasons come with their own advantages and disadvantages. 

I decided to touch down in Delhi at the start of December, as I wanted to travel in this part of the world during winter. The temperatures are  perfect at this time of year. I encountered no rain and plenty of blue skies, with the middle of day reaching around 23°C/73°F and temperatures at night dropping to around 15°C/60°F. That’s the main advantage to visiting at this time — the manageable temperatures make dealing with the noise and chaos easier, and you’ll rarely feel hot and sweaty as you make your way around attractions. 

There is one main disadvantage to travelling at this time of year, though: the smog. India is home to some of the world’s most polluted cities, and it was a struggle to deal with at times. My snot was jet-black for the entire time I was in Northern India. The smog stems from several sources: nearby farmers burning off their crops, the huge number of vehicles in cities, the dust emanating from construction sites, locals building fires to keep warm, and, depending on the time of year, firecrackers being set off to celebrate Diwali. Because the Golden Triangle resides in a land-locked valley, the smog tends to settle over the cities during cooler months and can result in a dense, dangerous haze. 

The smog obviously affects your health, but it can also affect your sightseeing by washing out the sky in all of your photos. There’s fog to contend with, too. The Taj Mahal is notorious for being shrouded in fog in the early mornings in winter, barely visible as the sun begins to rise. In fact, we chose to visit the Taj at sunset rather than sunrise to avoid precisely that. 

So what about other times of year?

April, May, and June are the hottest months of the year and I’d avoid visiting then — temperatures can get as high as 45°C during the day, which sounds like the worst possible way to see this part of the world. On the other hand, you’ll encounter the fewest number of tourists, which is always going to be a bonus in this often overcrowded region. 

July to September are the monsoon months and come with a risk of flooding, as well as a high chance of rain hitting the pause button on your explorations. Alternatively, there’s little smog to contend with and the rain can clear up the skies to have your photos looking fantastic. Again, there are fewer tourists. 

Overall, though, October to March has some of the best temperatures and the best weather. As long as you don’t mind having to deal with the smog, I’d recommend visiting then.

If I had to pick the perfect month to visit, I’d go with February. The temperatures will be lovely and warm, but there won’t be as much pollution and there’ll be slightly fewer tourists than in January and December. 

Should You Take a Tour? 

Nah, there’s no real need to. 

There are so many companies out there running tours to the Golden Triangle — many of whom are going to spam the comments of this post — but I really don’t think it’s necessary to take one. I found travel in the Golden Triangle to be straightforward and safe, and a hell of a lot of fun. There are so many tourists of all ages doing the exact same thing that it’s nowhere near as intimidating as you’re probably expecting. 

Instead of taking a multi-day tour, I recommend opting for day tours while you’re on the ground — like the street food tour I did with UrbanAdventures in New Delhi. It was the perfect tour to take on my first day in the country as it introduced me to the country’s street food, and gave me the confidence to start ordering random snacks from vendors as I continued moving through India. 

How to Spend Your Time in the Golden Triangle

This is my itinerary for my seven days in the Golden Triangle:

Day One: Arrive in New Delhi

Day Two: Explore Old Delhi

Day Three: Explore New Delhi

Day Four: Explore South Delhi

• Day Five: Train to Agra; Rickshaw tour of Agra
• Day Six: Drive to Jaipur, stopping at Fatehpur Sikri and Abhaneri
• Day Seven: Full day in Jaipur

I spent a lot of time in New Delhi, and that was for several reasons. I flew in from the U.K. and knew I was likely to be jet lagged during my first few days in the country — I always recommend giving yourself a few lowkey rest days at the start of your trip to get adjusted. I also knew that there was so much to see in Delhi and when I made a list of everything I wanted to do, I realised it was going to take several days to check all of it out.

In contrast, you can see all of Agra in a day and all of Jaipur in a day, so you don’t need to dedicate as much time to those places. 

If you have less time, you can visit Agra and the Taj Mahal as a day trip, or even visit Jaipur as a day trip. It’d be a hardcore way of seeing the region and you’ll be weary afterwards, but it can definitely be done. You could spend one day in Delhi, take a day trip to Agra, take a day trip to Jaipur, and be done. Bam! Seen it in three days. It seems to me like a guaranteed way to not have a great time, though. 

Here’s how I split up my time in more detail: 

It’s a rule of mine to spend my first day in a new place relaxing. I highly recommend opting for accommodation in South Delhi for your first visit to the city. I stayed in  Tatvamasi Guesthouse , which absolutely made our stay in Delhi so much better. The owner did so much for us, from showing us around the local night market to driving us to tourist attractions, introducing us to his favourite breakfast spot, and helping us get set up with SIM cards. 

South Delhi is a chilled-out, middle-class neighbourhood, and depending on what time you arrive in Delhi, it’s a good place to kick off your explorations. Head out for a walk, wander around one of the parks, people-watch on the streets, and check out one of the local cafes. 

Spend your evening on a street food tour  to introduce you to Delhi and the Indian food scene, and build up your confidence to go it alone in the future. Our guide offered so many valuable tips on this tour and I learned so much about Delhi from her.

Old Delhi is likely what you’re picturing in your mind when you imagine the chaos of India. The streets are crammed with rickshaws and motorbikes and cows and goats and street food and so many people and so much noise. 

Start your day, though, by heading to the Red Fort when it opens. Without the crowds of tourists, it’ll bring about a peaceful start to a day that’s likely to be anything but. 

Make Jama Masjid your next stop: one of the largest mosques in Delhi and one of my favourite spots in the city. Excitingly, you can pay to climb to the top of one of the minarets for a fantastic view over Old Delhi. 

Gandhi’s memorial should be your next port of call for some reflection and serenity, before you take a deep breath and head into the Old Delhi neighbourhood. This is where you’ll want to have your camera at the ready, knowing that there’ll be so much going on that it’s impossible to capture it all in one still frame. It’s fun trying to, though. 

Today is all about exploring New Delhi. Start by heading to your first stepwell in India! I love stepwells — they’re so cool for taking photos — and Agrasen ki Baoli was a fascinating one. It’s supposedly one of the most haunted places in Delhi!

Next, head to India Gate. This war memorial is dedicated to the 70,000 soldiers in the British Indian Army who died fighting in the First World War. It’s full of tourists, local schoolkids, and families having picnics, as well as tons of street vendors, but it’s an impressive structure nonetheless. 

Humayun’s Tomb will likely be one of your biggest highlights of New Delhi. The red sandstone tomb was built in 1570 and was the inspiration behind the Taj Mahal. It’s a large complex that you could see in an hour or three, depending on how keen you are to linger and take lots of breaks to soak up the atmosphere. I loved it here. 

Head to Lodhi Gardens next, which is another one of my favourite places in the city. It’s such a cool park! You could easily spend a couple of hours walking around the old historic monuments and watching families play cricket and picnic on the grass. 

Finish off your long day of sightseeing with a stroll through nearby Lodhi Colony, an area of the city that’s been turned into a neighbourhood of street art. There are dozens of enormous colourful murals blanketing the buildings around here, and they’re so much fun to hunt down. 

Finish off your time in Delhi with a relaxed stroll around South Delhi. Get started with an amble around the Lotus Temple, a Sydney Opera House-esque house of worship that’s open to everyone, regardless of their religion.  

Next, head to Qutub Minar. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this towering minaret reaches a height of 73 metres and is surrounded by so many cool ruins and monuments. It was one of my favourite spots in Delhi — I know I’ve said this a lot — and I spent over an hour taking photos in the grounds. 

In the afternoon, head to the PVR Directors Cut cinema to watch a Bollywood movie. This is a luxury cinema in South Delhi, with comfortable chairs that recline, blankets, pillows, air purifiers, and waiters to bring meals to your seat.

Day Five: Agra

Take the Gatimaan Express train from Delhi and you’ll arrive in Agra just before midday. After checking in to your homestay — I stayed in this lovely one — and arranging a driver for the following day, it’s time to head out and find yourself a rickshaw driver to take you around for the day. 

Make Agra Fort your first stop and prepare to be impressed by the sprawling complex. I was surprised I managed to spend well over an hour roaming around, and I found it far more impressive than Delhi’s Red Fort. There are tons of views of the Taj Mahal from the fort, so make sure you’re looking out for it as you walk through the grounds.

The Baby Taj, or Itimad Ud Daulah Tomb, will be next on your agenda, and it’s usually not too crowded. This is a time to chill out and enjoy taking photos from all different angles of the tiles and structures in the gardens. 

Ask to be taken to the Taj Mahal viewpoint next, on the other side of the river and looking out towards the mausoleum. This is a great spot for taking photos in front of the Taj without anybody else in the shot.

And then it’s time for the main event. If you’re visiting Agra in winter, as I was, I recommend a sunset visit to the Taj Mahal to avoid the fog that rolls in every morning at sunrise at this time of year. You’ll likely spend hours here and if you expect it to be overrated, you’ll only be impressed. 

Day Six: Travel Day from Agra to Jaipur, via Fatehpur Sikri and Abhaneri

If you opted to skip the Taj Mahal at sunset the previous day, you’ll be heading out at sunrise this morning instead. Or why not both? I was tempted to return at sunrise just to see it again, but in the end, my desire to sleep won out. 

After a quick breakfast, it’ll be time to jump in the car with your driver and make your way to Jaipur. 

Your first stop along the way will be Fatehpur Sikri, about an hour away from Agra. You’ll likely spend two or three hours here, as there’s so much to see. The fortified city dates back to the 16th century and was the capital of the Mughal Empire for just over 10 years. After that time, it was swiftly abandoned due to a lack of fresh water, yet the red sandstone buildin gs are still perfectly preserved today.

After two hours on the road, you’ll be arriving in Abhaneri to have a look around India’s largest stepwell. It’s known as Chand Baori and is one of the most impressive in the country. Built in 800 AD, it has 3500 steps and drops 100 feet down, making it one of the deepest in the world.

That night, stay in Le Fort Homestay . There are fantastic breakfasts up for grabs, the hotel is next to some great restaurants, and the owner is so helpful. The guesthouse is built right up against a fort, which makes for a particularly cool location. I loved it here.

Day Seven: Exploring Jaipur

There’s so much to see in this beautiful pink-coloured city but fortunately, you can visit all of the tourist attractions in a single day.

Amber Fort should be the first stop on your agenda, as you’ll want to get there as soon as it opens in order to avoid the crowds.  I’d be aiming to leave Jaipur at 7:30 in the morning and then jumping in an Uber to get there for opening time.  

Once the fort opens, you’ll want to make the most of having it all to yourself, so prioritise seeing the most popular parts of the complex: the Hall of Mirrors is usually packed, so head straight there. Once you’ve walked through the four areas of Amber Fort, make the trek over to Jaigarh Fort and spent an hour taking photos from its walls. 

With the main attraction out of the way, jump in an Uber back towards Jaipur and stop off at the lake palace. 

With that, it’ll be back to Jaipur, so grab a rickshaw and ask the driver to take you to Hawa Mahal. Rather than rushing, take photos from both sides of the street, and head inside to have a look around. Make sure to grab a chai from the Wind View Cafe opposite to get one of the best views of the Hawa Mahal without traffic getting in the way. 

While you’re in the old city, head next to the City Palace and Jantar Mantar, and enjoy snapping photos of the pink buildings on the way. I’d suggest potentially skipping the city palace if you’re running short on time, as it was the least impressive part of Jaipur for me. 

If you’re still feeling energised, you should head next to Nahargarh Fort, for an incredible view of the city. Visiting for sunset would be a great way to watch darkness fall over Jaipur. 

Alternative Destinations in the Golden Triangle

If you have more time or don’t want to dedicate as much of your itinerary to Delhi, there are plenty of alternative places to check out or tack on to your itinerary.

You could work in a stop at Ranthambore National Park in between visiting Agra and Jaipur. This wildlife reserve is a former royal hunting ground and is now one of the best places in the country to spot wild Indian tigers on safari. You aren’t guaranteed to see them, of course, but if you have an extra few days to spare, it’d definitely be worth taking that chance. 

UNESCO World Heritage Site Keoladeo Ghana National Park is close to Agra and could be worked into your drive to Jaipur if you’re a keen birdwatcher. At Sariska National Park, near to Jaipur, growing numbers of leopards and tigers roam through the area.

If you wanted to hire a driver between Delhi and Agra, you could stop in Mathura, birthplace of Krishna, along the way, as well as Vrindavan, which is filled with beautiful temples. 

Travel Tips and Advice for the Golden Triangle

Use Uber or Ola to get around:  Uber and Ola (the Indian version of Uber) have been game-changers for travel in India. We found ourselves using Uber more, as we could pay through the app. With Ola, you’ll need to pay in cash, as the app doesn’t accept foreign cards, but prices will be slightly cheaper.

As much as I enjoy the rickshaw life, having to haggle with drivers is annoying, and so is running the risk of them taking us to the wrong place because they misunderstood our directions. And plus, the pollution can get so bad that driving in an open-air vehicle isn’t going to be great for your lungs. 

I found Uber to be great for giving me a maximum price for which to haggle rickshaw drivers down to. When you can show the drivers the rate for Uber on your phone, they’re usually happy to match it. And it’s cheap! I couldn’t believe it when a 90-minute drive across Delhi worked out at around $10. 

And 12Go Asia for trains:  In the past, there used to be so many horror stories around trying to take the trains in India — it wasn’t uncommon to have to spend all day queueing to buy tickets or ending up in the packed-to-the-brim general admission carriage or getting scammed when you tried to buy tickets from travel agents. 

Just like Uber, 12Go Asia has vastly improved the train-booking situation in the country, because now you can book online, up to four months in advance and with your debit cards you use at home. 12Go takes a commission on sales, so keep that in mind — but it was so worth it for me to just have that peace of mind that everything was booked. 

And Redbus for buses:  I took three buses while I was in India and was impressed by the quality of all of them. The buses are cheaper than the trains, so are a great option if you’re travelling on a budget. Make sure you look at the seat map in advance — some of the buses are sleepers, arranged with a double bed on one side of the bus and a single bed on the other. For all my solo female travellers out there: you’ll want to make sure you book a single bed so you don’t end up sharing one with a random local dude. I booked the buses through Redbus .

English is spoken everywhere:  No need to worry about language barriers here, as English is widely spoken throughout India, and especially in the Golden Triangle. If you’re doing anything even remotely touristy, you’ll be able to communicate with anyone you need to. 

Some attractions close on Friday/Monday:  Did you know that the Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays? I didn’t before I arrived in the country, but fortunately, I had planned to visit on a Tuesday. 

What I did do, however, was to plan to visit the Lotus Temple on a Monday — my last day in New Delhi — and it was closed. If I’d researched in advance, I’d have known about this and been able to squeeze it in to one of my other sightseeing days. 

When you’re planning out your itinerary for India, make sure you have a quick google of the opening times of anywhere you want to visit — Mondays are usually when museums and attractions are closed. 

Get a SIM card:  It’s so easy to get a local SIM card in India. There’s an Airtel stand in the arrivals area at New Delhi — they’ll take a scan of your passport, put the SIM card in for you, and activate it. The cost of data in India is low — 900 rupees ($13) for 1.5 GB of data and unlimited local calls if you buy it from the airport or 250 rupees for the same if you go into an Airtel store in Delhi. The latter will be a more complicated process. 

Haggle, but also don’t care that much:  You’re expected to haggle in India, but the prices are often so low that you should keep in mind what you’re arguing over. I spent a solid five minutes trying to get a rickshaw driver to lower his price by 50 Rupees, which is the USD equivalent of 70 cents. I was being ridiculous! And honestly? Who cares if you get ripped off by a dollar? The drivers need the money more than you do.

You can pay by card to get a discount:  The vast majority of tourist attractions in India offer a discount if you pay by card instead of cash. It’s not much of a discount, I’ll admit, but it all adds up in the end. We didn’t have a problem using our British debit cards at the entrance to any attractions. 

Buy a N95 mask in preparation for the pollution:  The pollution is brutal in this part of India, so grab an N95 mask in advance.  

N95 masks filter out 95% of fine particles that are less than 2.5 microns in size, which can be significantly harmful to your health. You’ll want to make sure you have a tight fit with your mask — if you can feel any air coming out the sides when you exhale, that means it’s not airtight and you’re still breathing in the toxic fumes around you. You’ll know it’s working because it’ll feel hard to breathe. 

They’re not the most comfortable to wear and use, but I still used mine every day for at least a few hours in order to minimise my exposure. 

Steer clear of the street dogs:  I had a rabies scare while I was in India, and ever since, I’ve vowed to spread the word about how it can be contracted. I’ve learned a lot about it over the past month.

Rabies is spread through the saliva of an infected animal — and that doesn’t just mean being bitten by a dog that’s foaming at the mouth. It can be transmitted by an animal that isn’t showing symptoms, and it can spread through scratches and licks, as well as bites. If you get saliva on your hands, you can catch rabies through touching your eyes, nose, and mouth — even if it’s several hours later.

The street dogs in India are adorable, and I know I spent a lot of time playing with them, but I was being stupid and it’s just not worth the risk. India has the highest prevalence of rabies in the world, with an estimated 30,000 deaths each year. Once you contract rabies and start showing symptoms, there is no cure and you’ll die within a week. Avoid the dogs, no matter how cute they may be because it’s just not worth the risk.

And if you do come into contact with a dog and it licks a bite on your leg or whatever, see a doctor and get the post-exposure treatment as soon as possible. It’s a series of injections spread out over two weeks and it stops you from dying. When it comes to rabies, you don’t want to ever take the risk.

Watch out for the drains:  Despite looking like they’re secure in the streets, the drain covers are sometimes loosely placed over the sewers and can flip over and send you flying down below if you step on them in the right place. Look at your feet while you’re walking to avoid this. 

How to Stay Safe as a Woman in India

I received vastly less hassle in India than I was expecting. I encountered zero sexual harassment, no touching, and very little staring from the local men. Everyone treated me with respect and warmth, whether I was with my boyfriend or walking around on my own. This was very unexpected!

The worst you’ll likely encounter is incessant requests for photos from teenage boys. At first, I agreed to have my photo taken with everyone who asked, but eventually got fed up and started turning them down. After all, if they weren’t asking the local girls for photos, why were they asking me? They just want to pretend they have a Western girlfriend on social media. 

My tour guide in Jaipur advised me to stop agreeing to take photos with local guys, and from that moment on, I only agreed to for families and teenage girls. 

It might surprise you to learn that travelling as a woman in India can sometimes make for a more enjoyable experience. There are women-only carriages on the Delhi Metro that are far less crowded, I could skip the queue for many attractions by joining the smaller one for women, and was frequently welcomed with open arms by local women. Teenage girls, in particular, were always down to hang out and chat with me. 

Over and over, like when I was travelling alone by train, locals would check with me to make sure I felt safe, and reassure me that if ever I felt uncomfortable or in danger, I could just let them know.

In the Golden Triangle, there are so many tourists that you’re not going to stand out in a crowd, but you should still follow basic safety practices. 

You’ll want to make sure you dress conservatively to attract less attention, stick to well-lit areas when out at night, keep your belongings close to your body, and never compromise your safety in order to save money. If somebody tries to grope you, yell at them and dozens of nearby locals will come to your rescue. I also recommend staying in homestays that receive positive reviews from solo women, and to arrange a pick-up with them when you arrive in town, especially if you’ll be doing so at night. 

What About Delhi Belly, Tho?

Delhi Belly: my biggest fear. I was absolutely convinced I would get food poisoning in India, because doesn’t it happen to everyone?

And yet, it didn’t. Despite eating pretty much anywhere that was serving up delicious-looking food, neither I nor my boyfriend suffered from food poisoning. I believe three things helped keep us safe:

Going vegetarian!  Most of the locals in India are vegetarian — the country has the lowest amount of meat consumption in the world — so we switched over to a meat-free lifestyle, too. Note that you’re also going to want to avoid most fresh fruits and vegetables while you’re in the country, too — especially if they’re uncooked or peeled. 

Hand sanitiser!  Much of what gets written off as food poisoning in India is general contamination from touching surfaces with bacteria on it and then not washing your hands and touching your mouth. I used hand sanitiser on an hourly basis and took extra care not to touch my face. I also used the hand sanitiser to sterilise any utensils at restaurants, as they could have been washed with dirty tap water.

Pudin Hara!  I’m a total convert to Pudin Hara — peppermint oil capsules from India — and take them every time my stomach feels a little unsettled. You can buy them from any pharmacy when you get to India, but you can also pick them up from Amazon . I took like, a hundred tablets with me, as I took a capsule with every single meal. I fully plan on keeping a large supply of these with me whenever I travel, as they were so life-changingly great at settling my stomach. An added bonus was the deliciously minty burps that overpowered the scent of curry that was emanating from my body. 

Where to Go After the Golden Triangle

I strenuously recommend seeing more in India than just the Golden Triangle. 

While I loved my time there, I must confess that I fell for my next destinations in India so much more. India is an enormous country with so much more to offer than its three most popular cities, no matter how wonderful they are. 

I travelled into Rajasthan after I finished up in Jaipur, visiting Bundi, Pushkar , Udaipur , Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer — I’d recommend visiting all five spots if you have the time, as they were all marvellous. 

Other options include taking the train down to Mumbai to check out another Indian city that’s different to Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. You could head to Varanasi. Goa is always a good option, and Kerala is beautiful. You could even head up into the mountains in the north. 

Yes, You Should Go to the Golden Triangle!

If you’re currently on the fence over whether you should visit or not, hopefully this guide convinced you that it’s more than worth visiting. 

Give yourself enough time to see everything, and you’ll likely have a wonderful trip! Just make sure you don’t leave India immediately afterwards, because there’s so much more to see. 

Related Articles on India 💰 The Cost of Travel in India: My Detailed Budget Breakdown 🇮🇳 12 Reasons Why I Absolutely Loved Rajasthan 💗 Three Perfect Days in Delhi: I Love This City So Much 🙅🏼‍♀️ How Not to Spend a Day in Jaipur 🤩 The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Taj Mahal 🐪 Pushkar Travel Guide: 11 Things to Do in Pushkar 🤍 Yes, Udaipur is as Great as Everyone Says 🎶 I Went to a Pink Floyd-Themed Cafe in India

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Hey Lauren! Loved reading this amazing golden triangle guide. I know you didn’t enjoy it too much but Jaipur is my favourite of the three Golden Triangle cities.

Wow. That was a really impressive article. India has a very rich cultural heritage and history. All 3 cities you mentioned have their own identity. Like, Delhi is the Indian Political Hub, Jaipur has heritage forts and archaeological sites and Agra has “The Taj Mahal”. Thanks for your article and I can’t wait to see what you write next.

Thanks so much!

Incredible piece Lauren! I’m going to be heading to India next month – well, maybe not if the coronavirus has anything to do with it! But even so, when I do finally get to the Golden Triangle, this is the guide I’m going to be using! Thanks so much for putting all of this together for us.

Thanks for reading! And I hope you make it there, whether it’s next month or next year :-)

You have lovely photos of India!! They show how symmetrical and amazing their architectural structures are. Hope I can visit India someday too!

What a treasure trove of information. On my way to India in the next couple weeks. I will use your intel as a guide. Many thanks!

Hi Lauren, Thanks for the informative writeup. We were looking for information to help start planning our first short trip to India and found so many useful tips and advice from your article.

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Meet Lauren Juliff

India Golden Triangle in 10 Days — Travel Guide, Itinerary & Tips

By: Author Emily

Posted on Last updated: November 27, 2023

The Golden Triangle is one of the most popular tourist routes in India for first-time visitors. The triangle is anchored by three cities: Delhi, Jaipur and Agra. In this post, we’ll share the details of our 10-day trip around India’s Golden Triangle. We’ll share where we stayed, how we got around and exactly what we did during our trip. Then we’ll share some of our best tips that we learned from our experience in India.

Keep reading to learn all about India’s Golden Triangle.

In this Post

Golden triangle overview.

• When to Go & How Long to Stay
• Visas & Vaccines
• Flights, Hotels & Transportation
• Golden Triangle Itinerary Overview
• Sample Itinerary: Delhi
• Sample Itinerary: Jaipur
• Sample Itinerary: Agra
• India Golden Triangle Tips

Other India Guides

If you’re going to India for the first time, the Golden Triangle is a great route to take. You’ll get to experience the chaos of Delhi, history of Jaipur and beauty of Agra in a single trip. The cities are relatively close together, and it’s a good way to sample Indian culture on a well-beaten tourist path.

The Golden Triangle starts in Delhi. Home to Indira Gandhi International Airport — the country’s busiest airport — most international travelers will start and end in Delhi. You’ll want to spend at least three days in Delhi, and it’s usually best to do that first. It’s a great way to get grounded and adjust to the culture.

From Delhi, you can do Agra or Jaipur in either order. We’d suggest Jaipur first and then finishing in Agra. Jaipur has a lot more to do, so you can ride the high-energy wave from Delhi right into Jaipur. Then you can wrap up in Agra, which is much more relaxing because there’s really just one main attraction. The Taj Mahal is a great reward at the end of 10 days in India.

The three Golden Triangle cities are all roughly 200 miles apart from each other. You can move between the cities by train or you can hire a driver. We’ll discuss transportation in detail in a bit.

The Golden Triangle is a well-established tourist route. Nearly everyone in the tourism sector speaks English, you’ll have your pick of hotels, and there will be a wide array of foods available. Yes, you can find authentic Thali and dal everywhere you go, but you can also find pizza and burgers just as easily.

Overall, the Golden Triangle is an ideal route for first time travelers because it packs a huge punch with (relatively) little effort. The taste of India you get on the Golden Triangle will make you realize just how big and diverse India really is. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll be planning a trip back before you even leave.

Best Time to Visit the Golden Triangle

The three cities on the Golden Triangle are all pretty close together, and they share similar weather patterns. The climate in this region of India can be intense, so it’s really important that you plan your trip at the right time.

Here’s a look at the weather in this region by season. All temperatures are in °F.

• Golden Triangle in the Summer (April – June): Summer is extremely hot with temperatures regularly hitting 100°F or higher.
• Golden Triangle Monsoon Season (July – September): The monsoon season means frequent heavy rains and intense humidity. Temperatures typically stay in the 90s. Avoid monsoon season at all costs.
• Golden Triangle in the Fall (October – November) : The rainy season gives way to a milder fall. High temps are still in the 80s, but the lows start to dip to the 50s and 60s.
• Golden Triangle in the Winter (December – January): Winter is very comfortable for travelers who are coming from more temperate climates. The lows can be really cold — as low as the 40s — but the highs tend to hover around the low 70s.
• Golden Triangle in the Spring (February – March): Temperatures shoot up quickly in the spring and can vary greatly by the day. Highs will hit the 70s and 80s and lows will move up to the 50s and 60s.

The best time to visit the Golden Triangle is in the late winter or early spring (January through March). You definitely want to avoid the summer’s crippling heat and monsoon season, which can easily damper any holiday.

For any chart people like me, here’s the table I put together to inform the summary above. (Weather data source: Weather Spark )

How Long Do You Need for the Golden Triangle in India

Generally speaking, we recommend spending 10 days on the Golden Triangle. This is a pretty relaxed schedule, so you should have enough time to see most of each city’s best attractions and have time to relax in the afternoons and evenings. Ten days will also allow you to dedicate full days to travel between cities. This is ideal because then you don’t have to rush or worry about missing anything in the case of travel delays.

If you don’t have a full 10 days, you could fit the Golden Triangle into as few as 7 days. This is tighter, but it would work for someone who has the energy to pack their days full. (Pre-kid us would have definitely tackled it in 7 days.) If you’re doing a shorter trip, I’d recommend a car service between cities so you have more control over your travel time and schedule.

If you have more than 10 days in India, I’d recommend adding another city instead of dragging out the Golden Triangle. One great city to the add to the Golden Triangle is Udaipur. It’s a bit of a hike, but you can get there by car or train. It’s a beautiful and city to spend 3-4 days in addition to the Golden Triangle.

India Visa Requirements

To visit India, you need to secure a Tourist e-Visa before your trip. The Tourist e-Visa is required for visitors from almost every country and has three available durations: 30 days, 1 year, 5 years.

You can apply for an Indian Tourist e-Visa online. You will need a valid passport, passport photo, and credit card to pay the application fee. The application fee varies based on your nationality.

In most cases, this is a quick and easy process, but don’t put it off till the last minute. It can take longer if complications come up. My husband and I submitted separate forms. Mine came back in 24 hours, but his took a few weeks. (We’ve both been to the same countries.) Eventually we were both approved, but it’s just a good idea to get it as soon as possible.

Recommended Vaccines for India

India does not mandate any vaccines for visitors from most countries. (The only exception to that is the Yellow Fever vaccine, which is required if you’re traveling from a high-risk Yellow Fever country.) However, you might still want to get a few vaccines before you travel to India.

In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following vaccines for travelers going to India. Other countries may have different guidelines.

• Hepatitis A
• Yellow Fever
• Cholera (not prevalent in the Golden Triangle)
• Malaria (not prevalent in the Golden Triangle)
• Japanese Encephalitis (not prevalent in the Golden Triangle)

We were already up to date with most of these vaccines including: Covid, Hep A, Hep B and measles. We also already received Yellow Fever vaccines before traveling to Colombia a few years ago. Based on our travel plans (Delhi, Jaipur, Udaipur, Agra), we weren’t at high risk for cholera, malaria or Japanese Encephalitis. That left us with Rabies and Typhoid to consider.

If it was just us adults, we probably would have skipped both. Since we were traveling with a 2-year old, we booked a travel consultation with our pediatrician. Our child was fully caught up on their required vaccines, and the doctor actually didn’t strongly recommend any additional vaccines.

We decided to skip the rabies vaccine. Stray dogs are definitely a thing in the Golden Triangle cities (they are just about everywhere in India), but we assumed we would be able to stay pretty clear of them. Meanwhile, Typhoid spreads through contaminated water, and that seemed like a risk that would be harder to avoid completely. We decided to get the Typhoid vaccine for all of us.

The Typhoid vaccine is expensive. It costs around $150 and most insurance doesn’t cover it. (Our insurance covered children but not adults.) It’s also really hard to find. In many cases you have to go to a travel clinic to get it, which can sometimes cost another few hundred dollars. We live in NYC and were fortunate that our pediatrician and local CVS had it in stock.

( Disclaimer : We are not doctors and this is not medical advice. Consult your physician or a travel clinic for professional recommendations.)

Flying to Delhi

The journey around the Golden Triangle usually starts and ends at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi.

Air India is the flag carrier airline of India. While Air India isn’t known for being one of the better airlines, we personally had a pleasant experience flying Air India Business Class from Dubai to Delhi . I wouldn’t recommend flying Air India long-haul, but it’s a fine option if you’re traveling regionally.

Plenty of other international carriers fly to Delhi, so you’re probably better off flying your home country’s flag carrier instead.

There is a Metro stop at the airport, and the Delhi Metro is incredibly nice and clean. The Metro is a great way to get into the city if your hotel is near a Metro station (such as one of the many hotels near Connaught Place.) The Metro is also a great way to get from the airport to the train station, which is good if you’re planning to head right out to Agra or Jaipur and see more of Delhi on the tail end of your trip.

If you’re staying in Delhi for a few days and your hotel is not near a train station, your best bet is to take a car. Taxis are available at the airport and offer pre-paid or metered fares. The airport website recommends pre-paid fares, which requires going to the taxi counter to get a ticket first. Uber is also available in Delhi, so that’s a better option as long as you have cell service or wifi (there is free wifi at the airport).

If you are willing to spend a bit more, the easiest option is to book a car service. We booked a car service through our hotel and it was incredibly smooth. They were waiting for us with a sign when we cleared customs and they got us right to our hotel without any hassle. If you’re arriving in India after a long-haul flight, you will want the comfort and ease of a car service.

Choosing Hotels on the Golden Triangle

The three cities on the Golden Triangle are all populous cities and tourist hubs. There is a variety of hotels and accommodations available at a wide range of price points.

You can do the Golden Triangle (and honestly all of India) one of two ways.

One option is to take the budget route. You can find decent hotels and guesthouses on the Golden Triangle route for pretty cheap. Many of these accommodations receive glowing reviews. For example, Treebo Trend The Armani hotel in Delhi typically goes for less than $100 USD per night and is rated 4.8/5 on Google and 7.3/10 on Booking.com. And for India, that’s pretty pricy. You can find stays as low as $20-$30 a night if you’re willing to be adventurous.

Another option is to go the luxury route. India has some of the best hotel chains in the world. Specially, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts and Taj Hotels consistently rank on the World’s Best Hotel Brands list by Travel + Leisure. These deluxe hotels provide accommodations that are in stark contrast to the conditions you’ll see around most of these cities. A single night at one of these deluxe hotels can set you back over $1,000 USD.

Sure, there is a middle ground between these two extremes, but I would argue that it’s not really worth it. You can find good, clean, safe accommodations in the $100 range and the up charge to the $200-$300 dollar range don’t really offer substantial improvements relative to the price increase.

If you can afford to splurge on a nicer stay — even if it means delaying your trip for an extra year to save up — I would highly recommend it for the Golden Triangle. This isn’t something I say lightly or would say for many other destinations, but I feel strongly about it in India.

As much as I loved the Golden Triangle and India as a whole, it is physically and emotionally exhausting. A nice hotel can serve as an oasis, allowing you to recharge between excursions. This reset will prevent you from burning out too quickly and keep you open to experiencing the cities in shorter bursts.

I would never recommend going into debt or living outside your means. I am confident you can create this oasis at a hotel in the $100 price range. That said, if you have the budget and this is a once-in-a-lifetime trip for you, the luxury hotel options are incredible.

Personally, we went the luxury hotel route. You can check out detailed reviews for each hotel we stayed at on the Golden Triangle by visiting the link section at the end of this post.

• Delhi: The Oberoi New Delhi and JW Marriott New Delhi Aerocity
• Jaipur: Jai Mahal Palace
• Agra: The Oberoi Amarvilas

Getting Around the Golden Triangle

There are two main options for getting between the cities on the Golden Triangle.

The cheapest option is to take the train. Indian Railways runs an impressive network of routes all over the country, including the Golden Triangle. Trains in India are definitely an experience, but they’re not all the jam-packed trains you might have seen on social media. At least not for tourists. We took several trains in India and generally had very positive experiences.

Tourists should book the highest travel class available (which is still cheap by global standards), which includes assigned seats and AC. The train stations can be a bit hectic, but they have very clear signage (in English and Hindi) and the trains usually run on time. In our experience, the trains were always very clean and the experience from start to finish was pretty organized.

You can book Indian Railways train tickets online in advance. For international travelers, the easiest way to book Indian Railway tickets is through a third-party service 12GoAsia . (It’s very difficult to buy direct from Indian Railways from outside of India.) We’ve used 12GoAsia all over Asia and most recently during our trip to India. We have always had a great experience, particularly with their customer service. (This is not sponsored, we’re just fans of their service.)

Rail travel is not without it downsides. You’ll have to carry your bags around (often up and down stairs), navigate the station to find your train and car, and figure out transportation between the station and your hotel. On top of that, you will have less control over your schedule. Some routes are not at the best times, and there’s always the chance that your train is delayed.

To avoid all of that, the easiest way to get between Golden Triangle cities in India is take a car. The obvious advantage to a car service is that you will have door-to-door service between hotels, which means you don’t have to deal with any other transportation or lugging your bags. It also gives you more control over your schedule. Traffic can always be an issue, but you can start your journey pretty much whenever you want.

Most hotels in India have a car service they recommend and can book that for you. Their service will usually be more expensive than finding someone on your own. We booked through Bagga India Tour for one leg of the Golden Triangle (Delhi to Jaipur) and it worked out great. You can also save a bit of money by booking one car service for the entire journey, instead of booking each leg separately.

Finally, you can potentially fly between some legs of the Golden Triangle. (There is no flight between Agra and Delhi.) Don’t let the short flight times and cheap prices fool you, though. The airports in these cities are far from the city centers, and the airports are often very crowded and slow. By the time you factor in the transit, security waits and the flight itself, you’re not actually saving much time or money.

10-Day India Golden Triangle Itinerary

In these next sections, we’ll go into the details of our 10-day trip around the golden triangle. This itinerary largely mirrors the route we personally took. We added a few days in Udaipur between Jaipur and Agra, but this is how we handled the Golden Triangle portion.

Here is an overview of the itinerary we’ll cover in this post.

• Day 1: Arrival in Delhi

Day 2: Delhi — Old Delhi

Day 3: delhi — old meets new, day 4: delhi — tombs & gardens, day 5: travel from delhi to jaipur, day 6: jaipur — forts & palaces, day 7: jaipur — jaipur old city, day 8: travel from jaipur to agra, day 9: agra — taj mahal.

• Day 10: Return to Delhi and Departure

There are plenty of ways you can slice 10 days on the Golden Triangle. We think the itinerary above offers the best balance based on things to do in each location. However, there are two easy alterations you could make to this schedule that would still make sense.

The first change I’d consider is to cut the second day in Jaipur. If you squeeze all of Jaipur into one day on Day 6, you can travel to Agra on Day 7, see the Taj Mahal on Day 8, and then use Day 9 to return to Delhi. This change gets you back to Delhi a day sooner so that you can easily make a morning flight out of Delhi.

Another change you could consider is skipping the overnight stay in Agra all together. You can take a day trip to the Taj Mahal from Delhi, and that often winds up being cheaper and easier than staying in Agra. You could return to Delhi on Day 8 and then do a day trip to Agra on Day 9. Alternatively, you could also add an extra day in Delhi on the front end and do the day trip then. Then you can come back from Jaipur on Day 9 and go straight to an airport hotel for the night before you fly out.

Without any further ado, let’s dive into the itinerary.

Day 1: Arrival into Delhi

We were traveling to India from the US. A direct flight from NYC to Delhi takes 14 hours and includes a 9.5-hour time change. (Yes, you read that right, they are 30 minutes off from GMT.) We decided to break that up with a pitstop in Dubai first.

We decided to fly Emirates Business Class from New York to Dubai. Then we spent a few days in Dubai staying at Atlantis . If you have some extra time in your schedule, I’d highly recommend something like this. It’s a great way to slowly adjust to the time change so you’re fresh and ready by the time you get to Delhi.

Our flight from Dubai arrived in Delhi at 2:45 PM local Delhi time. The lines for border patrol were brutal, even the expedited lanes for families and premium class travelers. We waited for over an hour. This is yet another reason we were glad that we had the Dubai stopover. Waiting in that line after a 14 hour flight with a toddler when everyone was exhausted would have been much less pleasant.

It’s also just a great example of why you don’t want to have any concrete plans on your arrival day. Even if your flight is on time, you can still get delayed in ways out of your control.

After we cleared customs, everything was smooth sailing. We had arranged a car service through our hotel and they were waiting for us as soon as we exited customs. They carried our bags to a nearby SUV, which had the AC blasting and was stocked with bottled water.

According to Goole Maps, the drive should take about 20 minutes. In reality, it took closer to 45, and it was eventful. Lanes and traffic lights were seemingly optional, our SUV looked massive amid the swarm of tuk tuks and motorbikes, and we even spotted our first holy cows.

We soon arrived at our hotel, The Oberoi New Delhi, which felt like a world away. After a warm welcome, we got settled into our room and enjoyed dinner at one of the hotel restaurants. Even after a short flight, we were ready to pass out and rest up for our first day in Delhi tomorrow.

Note: For detailed information about every attraction we saw in Delhi plus even more things to add to your itinerary, check out our sample itinerary for 3 Days in Delhi .

We started our day with room service breakfast. While there are plenty of restaurants in the Old Delhi area, our personal preference on this trip was to primarily only eat at our hotel. Though certainly an extreme approach, this was our best strategy for avoiding the dreaded “Delhi Belly” for ourselves and our little one. (It was maybe overkill and at times boring, but it worked.)

The Oberoi New Delhi is not close to the Metro, so we needed a car to get to Old Delhi. If we were just traveling as adults, Uber would be an ideal transit option. However, we were traveling with a toddler who needed a car seat, so that didn’t work for us. Instead, we booked a car and driver for four hours through the hotel (starting at 8 AM).

We needed the car to get from the hotel to Old Delhi. But after our first stop (Jama Masjid), our driver handed us off to a rickshaw driver. We relied on the rickshaw driver to get us around the pedestrian streets and narrow alleys in Old Delhi that are not accessible by car.

The rickshaw driver took us on the following route, most of which we requested:

• Jama Masjid (Mosque)
• Red Fort (Former royal residence with old palaces, small museums and gardens.)
• Chandni Chowk (Iconic street market where you can find food, clothes, housewares and just about anything you could think of for very cheap.)
• Small street of Jain houses (There is a very instagrammable house here in an enclave just off the market. Be prepared to tip the owner or shop in his store.)
• Tea Shop (There will always be a friend’s shop that sells the best tea in town on any tour you take. We got suckered into this one.)

We had a great time visiting each of these sites. Everything I read about Old Delhi made it sound like an extremely chaotic culture shock, but we didn’t feel that. The neighborhood has a rhythm, a heartbeat, and it just sweeps you up. It’s beautiful and loud, but in an almost hypnotic sense. We only skimmed the surface of this neighborhood, but what we did experience we loved.

After about 3 hours, we returned to Jama Masjid where we met our driver. Neither our driver nor the rickshaw guide would tell us exactly what we owed for the tour. They insisted it was tip as much as we wish, but we tipped 3x as much as the tour price (which was quoted to us as Rs 400, $5 USD) and he still seemed disappointed.

We returned to our hotel, ate lunch at the hotel restaurant and then put our toddler down for a nap. During that time, Kenny went for a run in the hotel gym and then I got a coffee and macaron in the hotel patisserie.

After the nap, we spent the rest of the afternoon relaxing at the hotel. And by relaxing, I mean we spent two hours in the pool which was pretty cold in February. We wrapped up our first full day in India with Indian food in India! (Yes, it was just from the hotel restaurant but it was still really good!)

While Old Delhi is all windy and narrow streets and alleys, New Delhi is all wide boulevards, massive intersections, and stately buildings. It’s very spread out and much more European than Old Delhi. We had four things on the agenda today and they were all very spread out. We definitely needed a car to get around, so we booked one through our hotel for another 4 hours in the morning.

After another room service breakfast, our driver picked us up at 8 AM sharp. Our first stop was Qutub Minar, which was about a 30 minute drive. This site is one of three Unesco World Heritage sites in Delhi (along with the Red Fort and Humayun’s Tomb), and it is usually described as an old minaret. That didn’t sound that interesting, but I took a chance on it and ended up loving it.

Sometimes in travel, your mood and the weather and the scenery all just line up to make even a simple experience the most special and memorable. I think that’s what happened here. We beat the crowds, it was a cool and overcast morning, my kid had a blast there, and it was just a really great time. Yes, it’s an old minaret, but there’s some really cool ruins and pretty photo spots, and it’s just a lovely place to walk around on a nice morning.

Then we made another 30-minute drive over to Akshardham, which was the complete opposite of Qutub Minar. This is a newly built complex with a large temple, a few exhibitions, and a popular fountain show. It almost has theme park vibes. No phones or cameras are allowed inside and there is very intense airport style security at the entrance.

We wrapped up with two short stops. First was a stepwell called Agrasen ki Baoli. Stepwells are common in India, but most are no longer functional. Like many other stepwells today, this one is now just a quite place to sit and relax. Honestly, I got this one confused with a much cooler stepwell in Jaipur. You don’t really need to go out of our your way to come to this one, unless you want to of course.

Our last stop was India Gate. This is an Arc de Triomphe-inspired arch in the middle of a large park. I had pictured spending more time in this park, but it was honestly just too hot at this point and we were all pretty hungry. We just snapped a few photos and carried on.

After a full four hours driving around to different sites, we returned to our hotel. Our afternoons were pretty much the same everyday in Delhi. We ate lunch and dinner in the hotel restaurant, where out servers became very attached to our blonde baby. Said baby napped while Kenny and I split time working out or enjoying the hotel amenities. And every afternoon, we spent a few hours in the hotel pool.

The remaining sites on our list were all relatively close to our hotel. They appeared walkable on Google Maps, so I didn’t initially reserve a car for the day. However, after seeing the area in person — the wide streets and hectic intersections and beating sun — we decided the walk was possible but wouldn’t be pleasant. At the last minute, we booked a car for another 4 hours for the morning.

Our first stop was Humayun’s Tomb. The complex opens early (around 6 AM), but the grounds were almost entirely empty during our 8:30 AM visit. Not only did we beat the crowds, but the weather and lighting was perfect in the early morning.

Humayun’s Tomb is another gem in Delhi. It was probably my second favorite place in the city. There are a few tombs in the complex, and we first stopped at Isa Khan’s Tomb. It’s smaller and built in an entirely different style than Humayun’s, but I loved it for the way the gates framed the tomb.

On the way to Humayun’s Tomb, we passed through West Gate. I read that you could go to the top of the gate for great views of the tomb. Now, I did weasel my way up to the top, but I’m not sure that was actually allowed. I took a quick photo and then hurried back down.

You can go up and inside Humayun’s Tomb, which we did. The view from the top was nice, but inside is mostly just empty stone rooms. Still cool though. There are a few more tombs in the area, but we headed out after seeing the two biggest.

Next was Safdarjan tomb. At first glance, this tomb seems like it would be just as stunning as Humayan’s. But when you look for too long, you notice that it’s not quite right. The proportions are off and the materials are a much lower quality. Not knowing that it was a B-Lister at the time, I still had a nice walk around it.

We finished our morning at Lodhi Garden. Everyone loves Lodhi Garden. It is a true oasis in the city. It’s a large garden park that is dense with trees and gardens, large green lawns, a pond, and even some tombs (this is still Delhi after all). It’s a peaceful and quiet place to escape the business of the city … as long as you’re not getting chased by massive bugs like we did at the end.

We could have stayed at Lodhi Garden for much longer, but lunch time was approaching and our time with our driver was ticking by.

As was had grown accustomed by now, we spent the remainder of our day napping, swimming and eating at the hotel restaurant. Tomorrow was a travel day, so we also took some time to pack.

Jaipur is about 185 miles southwest of Delhi. You can get there by train or car. The train times vary based on the schedule and can range from 3.5 hours to 8 hours. The shortest train is in the evening (6:40 – 11:05 PM), but that was a little later than we wanted to do with a toddler.

We decided to book a car for the Delhi-to-Jaipur leg. Our driver picked us up at our hotel in Delhi at 8 AM and we checked into our new hotel in Jaipur around 1 PM. This included a 30 minute stop where our driver kind of just disappeared and left us at a rest stop. (Not unsafe, just a little boring. We did get to scope out some of the local chip flavors though.)

Our hotel in Jaipur was the Jai Mahal Palace. After being shown to our room, we grabbed lunch at the Italian restaurant on property before getting in a quick nap. We spent the rest of our afternoon and evening swimming in the pool, playing in the kids room and walking around the gorgeous grounds. The restaurants in this hotel were much fancier than our last, so we decided to just have room service for dinner.

If you were short on time, you certainly could have ventured out into the city to explore on the second half of your travel day. Our hotel wasn’t within walking distance to anything interesting, so we had no problem relaxing the afternoon away.

NOTE: We have a full Jaipur Itinerary that’s packed with detailed information about each of these sites plus even more things to do.

Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan. This Indian state is what a lot of people probably picture when they think of India. Rajasthan is known for its elaborate forts and palaces, unique cuisine and brightly colored traditional dress. Rajasthan is one of the most beautiful parts of India and one of the most popular tourist destinations.

The Old City in Jaipur is very walkable, but to get to the forts up in the mountains you will need a car. We decided to book a car (with a driver) for a full day.

We started our day at Amer Fort, the most impressive fort in the city. It’s a good idea to get here right when they open because this fort gets really crowded, really fast. There are many beautiful spaces in the fort, which makes it a popular spot for local couples and influencers alike to come for professional photos.

Our next stop was Panna Meena ka Kund, which is a very intricate and stunning stepwell. (This is the one I was picturing when I made us stop at the other one in Delhi.) This is a quick stop, but one you should absolutely make! You actually pass it on the way up to the Amer Fort, so if you have time, you should stop here before the fort.

Next, we went over to Jaigarh Fort. Despite looking close together on the map (and being walkable via a pedestrian tunnel), it actually takes quite a bit of time to drive between the forts because of how the mountain roads are laid out. The fort itself is nowhere near as impressive as Amer Fort — Jaigarh Fort was the military arm while Amer Fort was the royal residence — but the views from Jaigarh Fort are better, which makes it worth it. (Also, we saw monkeys here, which is always fun.)

By now it was time for lunch. Rajasthan is famous for Thali, which is a serving style that comes on a large tray filled with small bowls of different dishes. We really wanted to try authentic Thali, so we decided to have a rare meal outside of our hotel.

Zeeman Restaurant has 4.6 stars on over 200 reviews, so we went for it and we did not regret it! It was so good, we did not get sick, and we were happy to have the chance to try some locally made Indian food at least once. (It was out of the way to come back to this restaurant from Jaigarh Fort. If you’re hungry after Amer Fort, it makes more sense to eat before you go to Jaigarh Fort.)

One our way back to town from the mountain forts, we stopped at Jal Mahal. This palace was intentionally flooded and is now a little island in the middle of the lake. You can only see the palace from the land and there’s a street market that lines the shores near the palace. Our toddler bought a cheap slinky, but we otherwise just took a picture and left.

From here, we personally continued on and did all the things listed on days 6 and 7 in a single day. We opted for one full day of sightseeing and then spent the entire next day resting at our hotel. This is a fine option if you want a rest day, but it did make things pretty rushed. We’d suggest doing the following activities on a separate day. You can even fit in a few more things that way, and take it at a slower pace.

Most of Jaipur’s Old City is very walkable. Once you get to the area, you won’t need a car. To get there from your hotel, you can hail a tuk tuk, take an Uber or even take the Metro if you’re by a station.

If you’re doing Jaipur City on a separate day than the forts, start at City Palace. Get there when they open at 9:30 AM to beat the crowds. We didn’t make it here, and it generally gets mixed reviews, but I think it’s worth seeing if you have the time.

After the palace, walk over to Jantar Mantar. (This is where we went after Jal Mahal.) It’s an open-air observatory that was built in the 1700s. You can walk by the massive manual star-tracking instruments and learn about how they worked. Though not a must-do, it’s interesting and pretty. You can get a composite ticket that includes Jantar Mantar and the City Palace, plus some other places.

We left the walled city and went south on Chaura Rasta Road to Bapu Bazaar. This walk isn’t overtly exciting in the tourist sense, but it does pass many shops and stores that the locals actually shop at (like small hardware stores, school book stores, etc). It was cool to see the non-touristy (eh, less touristy) side of Jaipur.

Bapu Bazaar extends about three blocks from Chaura Rasta Road to Johari Bazar Road. It’s a lovely market that is as much for tourists as it is for locals. They sell clothes, souvenirs, shoes, fabric and so much more. It’s a colorful, noisy and beautiful walk.

When you get to Johari Bazar Road, head back north (turn left). This is another bustling market street but with more stores than stalls. Before you get back to the walled city, you’ll pass a massive traffic circle called Badi Chaupar. Be careful crossing here, and then take a minute to watch the traffic. It’s amazing to see all colorful tuk tuks zooming in and out of here.

We finished our time in Jaipur at the city’s most famous landmark: Hawa Mahal. This building is most famous for its facade, which has become the symbol of the pink city. You can go inside, but most people don’t. The best views are from across the street. Lots of people also recommend an elevated view from the restaurant across the street, The Tattoo Cafe & Lounge.

The Jaipur to Agra leg of the Golden Triangle is probably the most annoying. There are a handful of trains, but only one that is scheduled for a reasonable time (8:10 AM – 12:30 PM). Alternatively, you can hire a driver which will take about 5 hours.

If we were just doing the Golden Triangle, we would have probably taken the 8:10 AM train. Our hotel in Jaipur was close to the train station, so we would have had scheduled an early car service to get us there on time.

We had some extra days, so we actually inserted a trip to Udaipur between Jaipur and Agra. We took an early day train from Jaipur to Udaipur. After spending a few days in Udaipur (including celebrating Holi in Undaipur ), we then took an overnight train from Udaipur to Agra .

For the sake of this itinerary, what matters is that you get to Agra in time to spend at least one morning at the Taj Mahal.

The Taj Mahal. Your journey to India and around the Golden Triangle has lead you to this moment. I was very excited to see the Taj Mahal and it did not disappoint. It was majestical and breathtaking and serene, and everything you probably imagine it to be.

The Taj Mahal is most beautiful at sunrise. If you’re staying in Agra, I’d highlight recommend getting up early for sunrise. You won’t beat the crowds, but you will be the heat.

Speaking of crowds, the Taj Mahal is incredibly popular and crowded. If you have your heart set on a photo with a completely empty backdrop, you’re going to need to get in line around 3 AM. However, if you don’t need “the shot” plan to get there about 30 minutes to 1 hour before sunrise. That should give you enough time to get through the security queue and onto the grounds in time to see the sun come up.

The main photo spots, like just inside the entry gate and the iconic bench in the middle of the waterway (which has a formal, Disney-style queue for it) get very crowded. However, there are plenty of beautiful viewpoints around the grounds that don’t have lines or crowds. Even during the busiest time of the morning, we easily grabbed all of these photos with no waits.

The Taj Mahal is a mausoleum, and you can go inside. However, you can only view the main floor, which is a replica of the actual tomb which is a floor below. The inside of the Taj Mahal is not actually that noteworthy, but you still have to do it. It’s the Taj Mahal!

Many hotels offer tour guides for the Taj Mahal. We hired one, but I don’t think that a tour guide is necessary for the Taj Mahal. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable, but he didn’t tell us more than we could have learned from reading wikipedia for 20 minutes. The experience is more about seeing and being at the Taj Mahal, and I would have preferred not to feel rushed or tied down to a guide.

We spent about 2 hours at the Taj Mahal. If we didn’t have a kid, we might have hung out for another hour or so. Afterwards, we returned to our hotel in time for breakfast and then spent the rest of the day swimming in the pool and enjoying the view from our hotel.

Our hotel room had a balcony with Taj Mahal views and it was truly incredible. We got to appreciate this incredible building for the entire duration of our stay in Agra, not just the morning we spent on the grounds. I know that this is not in everyone’s budget, but if it’s in yours, I cannot recommend it enough.

If you wanted to keep busy, Agra Fort is the other main attraction in Agra. You’ll need to take a car or tuk tuk there. There’s not much else you really need to see and do in Agra, so 1 full day there is really enough.

That said, there’s always the chance that you get hit with some bad weather or it’s foggy in the morning or your alarm doesn’t go off. If something goes wrong during your visit to the Taj Mahal, it it could be nice to have a backup option. That’s really the only reason I would suggest staying multiple nights in Agra.

Day 10: Return to Delhi and Depart

The final day on this itinerary is a bit flexible and depends a lot on your flight schedule.

The train from Agra to Delhi takes 2.5 – 4 hours, depending on the route and schedule. Not all of the times are great, but there are some morning schedules that can get you back to Delhi pretty early.

This is fine if you have a late flight out, however it can be a bit nerve-racking to be relying on a train to get you back in time for an international flight. If you want to take the train, you might alleviate some of that stress by taking the train back to Delhi in the afternoon or evening after your visit to the Taj Mahal.

Another option is to take a car. It takes about 3.5 – 4 hours to get from Agra to the Delhi airport. If you left early on your final day, you should comfortably make an afternoon flight.

We took a midday Kerala Express train from Agra to Delhi, and then took the Metro to Aerocity. We spent one night at the airport hotel (JW Marriott New Delhi Aerocity) and then flew out early the following morning.

However you get back, be sure to give yourself plenty of time at the Delhi airport. After all the lines and check points, it took us about 2 hours total from the time we arrived at the airport to the time we got to our gate.

10 Tips For Visiting the Golden Triangle

• Visit attractions early in the day. This is generally a good way to beat the crowds and its always a good way to beat the heat. There are a lot of domestic Indian tourists on the Golden Triangle and they tend to come out in full force in the afternoon. (The exceptions are the Taj Mahal and Amer Fort, which were both crowded even at opening.)
• Watch out for anything that touches tap water. “Don’t drink the water” is common knowledge in India, but watch out for the sneaky ways tap water can get into your system. Don’t brush your teeth with tap water, don’t consume raw fruits and veggies that may have been washed with tap water, be cautious about what coffee and tea you consume, etc. We always had bottled water on us or used this water filter water bottle .
• Book tickets online . The lines at ticket booths get really long at some of the popular sites, and nearly all of these attractions sell tickets online. Buy your tickets the night before so you can skip the queue at the attraction. Another tip is to look out for foreigner queues. Some ticket booths have a separate window for foreigners and that line is often much shorter.
• Bring a small day bag or no bag at all. Many of the top attractions on the Golden Triangle don’t allow large bags inside. For example, you can’t bring backpacks into the Red Fort. If you must bring a bag, make sure it’s a small one. For the Taj Mahal, don’t bring a bag at all. The lines for bag check get really long, but you can zip through security if you don’t have a bag. (Pro tip: Put your phone, wallet and one of these packable totes in your pocket. After you breeze through security, move all your things from your pockets into your bag.)
• Carry cash. Keep at least a thousand Rupees ($12 USD) in smaller bills on you at all times. You’ll need cash to pay for things like tuk tuks and rickshaws, snacks and drinks from small stands, and even entry to certain sites if you didn’t buy tickets online. You’ll also want cash for tips …
• Tip everyone. Everyone who does something for you — like takes a photo, gives you directions, shares information about a site — is usually going to ask for a tip. I’m a seasoned traveler and still fell for the old “let me take your photo” trick. In most cases, Rs. 100 ($1 USD) is enough, but it depends on the situation.
• Take at least one train . You can reserve a car service for all of your transportation between cities around the Golden Triangle. However, I’d suggest taking a train for at least one leg. The Agra-to-Delhi leg is a good option because the Kerala Express is quick and the schedule is convenient. Taking the train in India just feels like a right of passage and something everyone should experience at least once.
• Relax in the afternoon. As you probably noticed, we did all of our sightseeing in the morning and then spent most of our afternoons in the hotel pool. I’d highly recommend this approach, even if you don’t have kids. These cities are exciting and intense. To fully appreciate that, you’ll want to take some breaks. We’re typically go-go-go travelers, but we really slowed it down in India and it allowed us to enjoy it so much more.
• Add some stops to your itinerary. The Golden Triangle is a great way to spend 10 days in India. However, if you have more time, I’d suggest two additions. First, add a stop somewhere to adjust to the time change a bit before you go to Delhi. Both Dubai and Doha are great stopovers. Second, add a visit to Udaipur. We really loved Udaipur and it’s a great way to beef up your Golden Triangle itinerary if you have more time.
• Just do it. India can be a challenging destination for many westerners. The culture is very different, the poverty is heartbreaking and the risk of getting sick can be stressful. But if there is even a small part of you that wants to go to India, I would tell you to just do it . The payoff is absolutely worth it. Even though it was difficult at times, I wouldn’t take it back. I fell in love with the country and can’t wait to to explore more of it one day.

We’ve written detailed guides about many individual components of our Golden Triangle travels. For more things to do in each city, detailed attraction notes, more tips and thorough reviews, check out some of these more focused posts.

• Flight to Delhi: Air India Business Class from Dubai to Delhi Review
• Hotel in Delhi: The Oberoi New Delhi Hotel Review
• Delhi City Guide: 3 Days in Delhi — Sample Itinerary + Planning Guide
• Car service from Delhi to Jaipur: We booked through Bagga India Tour (We did not write a full review on this.)
• Hotel in Jaipur: Review of Jai Mahal Palace
• Jaipur City Guide: Jaipur Itinerary — 1 or 2 Days in the Pink City
• Jaipur to Agra: We did not make this connection directly. We added a few days in Udaipur in the middle.
• Hotel in Agra + Taj Mahal Guide: The Oberoi Amarvilas Review
• Train from Agra to Delhi: Kerala Express Review — Agra to Delhi in AC 2-Tier Sleeper Class
• Airport Hotel in Delhi: JW Marriott New Delhi Aerocity Hotel Review
• Flight out of Delhi: Qatar Airways Economy from Delhi to Doha

And finally, if you’re considering going to India with kids , we have an entire guide dedicated to just that topic!

More From This Trip

• Emirates Business Class Review – A380 JFK to DXB
• Our Stay at Atlantis Dubai – A Perfect Place to Recharge
• Detailed 2-Day Dubai Itinerary
• Air India Business Class Review – 787 from DXB to DEL
• A Parent’s Guide to Traveling to India with Kids
• India Golden Triangle in 10 Days [Travel Guide, Itinerary &Tips]
• 3 Days in Delhi – Sample Itinerary + Planning Guide
• The Oberoi New Delhi Hotel Review
• Jaipur Itinerary – 1 or 2 Days in the Pink City
• Review of Jai Mahal Palace (Jaipur)
• Train from Jaipur to Udaipur – AC 3-Tier Sleeper Class
• The Oberoi Udaivilas Hotel Review (Udaipur)
• Udaipur Travel Guide + Things To Do
• Celebrating Holi in Udaipur (With a Kid)
• Overnight Train from Udaipur to Agra – AC First Class Sleeper
• The Oberoi Amarvilas Review: A Luxury Hotel with Taj Mahal Views
• Kerala Express Review – Agra to Delhi in AC 2-Tier Sleeper Class
• Hotel Review: JW Marriott New Delhi Aerocity
• Qatar Airways Economy Review – DEL to DOH
• Doha Things To Do & Travel Guide (Perfect for a Stopover!)
• Qatar Airways Qsuite Review – 777 from DOH to JFK

DETAILED Golden Triangle India Itinerary – 1 Week India Itinerary!

Categories Asia , India , Itinerary

Want to plan a Golden Triangle India Itinerary to see the famous cities of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur? You can do this with just 1 week in India, here’s how!

The Golden Triangle is where most tourists start when going on a trip to India or on holiday in India.

And it makes sense, Delhi provides lots of flight options and is a melting pot of cultures , religions and sights to see. Jaipur also known as the pink city gives a rich cultural experience of the state of Rajasthan, and Agra is home to the Taj Mahal , one of the must-see wonders of the world!

Although you could spend 10 days in India doing the Golden Triangle, I think it’s very possible to do the Golden Triangle with 1 week in India and it offers the perfect 1 week India itinerary too! Especially for first-timers to India!

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Golden Triangle India Itinerary

I have been to India multiple times and ran 2 group tours there. The one mistake people often make when planning a trip to India is trying to fit too much in.

You have to remember that India is huge so journeys take a while. It’s also busy, hot and a hit on the senses meaning you’ll need time to relax otherwise you’ll end up totally overwhelmed and this could quickly negatively impact your experience which we don’t want to happen.

Overview of Golden Triangle Itinerary

Here’s a quick breakdown of how I recommend you plan your Golden Triangle India itinerary in 1 week. Below, I give day-by-day details of how to get around India’s Golden Triangle, things to do in the Golden Triangle and more information on Delhi, Agra and Jaipur which make up the Golden Triangle.

Day 1 – Arrive in Delhi & Do Evening Street Food Tour

Day 2 – Explore Delhi

Day 3 – Morning Train to Agra. Afternoon City Tour in Agra

Day 4 – Sunrise Visit to Taj Mahal, Lunchtime Train to Jaipur

Day 5 – City Tour of Jaipur

Day 6 – Morning in Jaipur. Afternoon Train to Delhi

Day 7 – Morning Bike Tour of Delhi. Leave Delhi.

Recommend India itineraries

Got more time to spend in India? The Golden Triangle is a must-visit , especially to start off a trip to India but there is so much more to see in North India and South India.

Here are my popular India itineraries based on my trips there to help you plan the rest of your trip to India:

• 2 Week India Itinerary Perfect For Your First Trip To India!
• 2 Week South India Itinerary! A Goa & Kerala Itinerary!
• 2 Month India Itinerary To Visit North & South India!
• 1 Month North India Itinerary! 4 Unique India Itineraries For 1 Month!

And here are my top India Travel Tips:

• 24 Best Places to Visit in India on Your First Trip
• A Step by Step Guide For Planning a Trip to India Easily!
• TOP 7 Tourist Scams In India & How To Avoid Them!

Delhi Agra Jaipur Itinerary

Here is my detailed day-by-day breakdown of how to plan your Delhi, Agra and Jaipur itinerary with 1 week in India!

Day 1 – Arrive in New Delhi & Go on Evening Street Food Tour

How to get to delhi.

Remember to apply for your visa for India before you arrive !

New Delhi Airport is a huge international airport so there are plenty of flights arriving to start your Golden Triangle India itinerary and it is an easy airport to navigate. Check flights on Skyscanner here !

Before you leave the airport, I recommend buying a sim card so you can be connected on your 7 day India tour and Delhi Airport is the easiest place to buy a sim card from.

Here is my full post on how to buy a sim card in Delhi Airport .

Where To Stay in Delhi

When it comes to where to stay in Delhi, I recommend staying in South Delhi , in or near the area of Hauz Khas because this is a residential part of the city and is much more relaxed than the centre. There really is no need for you to stay in Central Delhi on this 7 day India itinerary.

• Hotels in Delhi I recommend are:
• Haveli Hauz Khas
• Bloom Rooms Janpath
• Moustache Hostel New Delhi
• Shangri-La’s Ero Hotel

Here is my full post on where to Stay in Delhi for All Budgets .

Things To Do in Delhi

On your first day in Delhi and to start your Golden Triangle itinerary I really recommend you book an evening street food tour with Reality Tours in Old Delhi. You will meet a guide at about 5:00 pm and spend the next few hours learning about Old Delhi, trying so many amazing foods and being amazed at this city!

Delhi is overwhelming, especially on your visit day and the first visit to India. Old Delhi is even overwhelming even once you’ve been there a few times, so the best way to see it is with a local , trust me!

I did Delhi wrong the first few times I visited, so here are 10 Delhi Travel Tips to enjoy Delhi , so you don’t make the same mistakes as me!

For your first full day in Delhi on your Golden Triangle India itinerary, I would recommend hiring a guide and going on a private tour . It is really reasonable to hire a guide and driver for 1 day.

The top places to visit in Delhi and that a guide can take you to are:

• Old Delhi Red Fort
• Humayun’s Tomb
• Qutub Minar
• Lotus Temple

Here are some highly-rated private day tours of Delhi you can book:

Day 3 – Train to Agra. Agra City Tour

Getting around India is actually pretty easy, and that’s why you can (pretty) easily see 3 cities in 1 week in India on a Golden Triangle Itinerary.

The train is the best way to get around India so I recommend you experience a train ride to get from New Delhi to Agra, alternatively, you can book a car and private driver like this . Your accommodation in Delhi can help you with this too.

New Delhi to Agra Train

I recommend catching an early morning train around 8am or 9am and the quickest option like the 1 hour 40 minute train from Hazrat Delhi Train Station to Agra Cantt.

Book this Delhi to Agra train on 12Go Asia here!

Where To Stay in Agra

For a nice high-rated homestay for a good price, I recommend The Coral Court Homestay . If you want a view of the Taj Mahal and a more luxurious stay , check out the Taj Hotel .

When I was backpacking India, I stayed at Moustache Agra Hostel , it wasn’t my favourite but it was fine and walkable to the Tak Mahal!

Things To Do in Agra

Once you have arrived in Agra, get a tuk-tuk to your hotel , drop your bags at your hotel and go on a city tour .

You can book a city tour like this in advance , or ask your hotel to help you. If you want an explanation of where you’re visiting you should go with a guide, but if you just want transportation you can go with an auto-rickshaw driver.

It’s really fun to spot the Taj Mahal around Agra before going in, here are ways to see the Taj Mahal from the outside !

3 Agra Travel Tips!

1 – there is so much more to Agra than just the Taj Mahal .

2 – Agra is not walkable apart from around the Taj Mahal and there is no public transport so you will need a driver to help you with this day of your Golden Triangle India Itinerary!

3 – The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays !

I really recommend you visit the Taj Mahal tomorrow morning at sunrise on this Golden Triangle itinerary as this is the best time of day to visit the Taj Mahal , but, note that the Taj Mahal is closed on Friday so if it’s Thursday on day 3 of your 1 week India itinerary, go to the Taj Mahal when you arrive in Agra!

Places to visit in Agra that I recommend you go to are:

• Akbars Tomb
• Mehtab Bath for Sunset
• Taj Mahal nature park

Day 4 – Taj Mahal & Train To Jaipur

Sunrise at the taj mahal.

Sunrise is the best time of day to go to the Taj Mahal because although it may seem busy when you arrive, even on a dark morning, it only gets busier and busier later on. Plus, if you are visiting India in hotter weather, this is the coolest and most pleasant time of day to visit.

Your accommodation will advise you on the best time to leave in the morning depending on the sunrise time so you can get to the ticket office as it opens . You can go to the Taj Mahal without a guide , but to understand what the building means and the history, which is fascinating, you can get a guide as you walk in.

Related post: My Top Tips for Visiting the Taj Mahal!

Most hotels will have breakfast ready for you when you return at about 9:00 am if you ask them to.

Agra to Jaipur Train

For your Agra to Jaipur train, I recommend getting the train that leaves Agra at 14:50 and gets to Jaipur at 18:55 so you don’t need to rush at the Taj Mahal in the morning and you can even nap until check-out once you return to your hotel.

I would recommend AC Chair Class so you have a comfy experience watching the Indian Countryside go by!

Book The Agra to Jaipur Train here.

Alternatively, your accommodation can help you book a private car like this from Agra to Jaipur which might be more preferable because of your short timeframe on this 7 day India itinerary!

Where To Stay in Jaipur

A hotel that I love in Jaipur and really recommend is Shahpura House . It’s a luxury heritage hotel in the centre of the city offering high quality but at a food price! And why not treat yourself seen as you are now in the most royal city in Rajasthan?

If you are looking to stay in a hostel , I really recommend Moustache Jaipur Hostel , this is one of the best hostels I stayed in in India!

Things To Do in Jaipur

Jaipur is another big city with so many things to see! Again, on this Golden Triangle India itinerary, in order to see the best of Jaipur I recommend you hire a guide and driver for the day , or at least a tuk-tuk driver to take you around.

There are so many Jaipur day tours and private day tours of Jaipur to book, here are high-rated options:

Remember, tuk-tuk drivers are there for transport only , they may give you snippets of information but do not expect to get an informational guided tour in good English if you only hire a tuk-tuk driver.

The top places to visit with 1 day in Jaipur are:

• Amber Palace
• Jaipur City Palace
• Jantar Mantar
• Monkey Temple

Finish off your day in Jaipur in the perfect way by watching a Bollywood film at the Raj Mandir Cinema with local Indians and other tourists, it’s quite an experience!

Be sure to book your tickets a few days before on their website here.

Day 6 – Train From Jaipur to Delhi

To end your Delhi, Agra and Jaipur itinerary, you can either get the quickest train from Jaipur to New Delhi at 7:55 in the morning, or you can enjoy a relaxed morning in your hotel in Jaipur. You can visit any of the things to do in Jaipur that you missed the day before and leave in the afternoon instead.

Jaipur to Delhi Train

Most of the trains from Jaipur to Delhi leave early morning or late afternoon and variry in time from 3 hours 40 minutes to 5 hours 50 minutes so don’t plan to get a train at lunchtime.

Book your Jaipur to Delhi train easily on 12GO Asia here!

Jaipur to Delhi Flight

I don’t recommend getting a private car from Jaipur to Delhi as it’s about a 5 hour drive. If you are in a rush, I’d recommend a flight as both cities have big airports with regular internal 55 minute flights.

Search for flights on 12GO Asia here!

Day 7 – Delhi and Leave

Now you’ve experienced 1 week in India, you should feel more confident coming back to Delhi and exploring again before you leave.

One of the things I recommend for Delhi is a morning bike tour . I’ve done this 3 times and on both my group tours and although it’s an early wake-up call, it’s amazing to see Old Delhi wake up and explore by bike!

Spin Monkey run the morning’s bicycle tour of New Delhi which you can view and book here !

Golden Triangle India Tours

If you don’t fancy getting around India yourself and you’d rather hire a guide and driver for the duration of your trip. You can do this.

The Golden Triangle India Tours on offer range from 2 – 5 days . Personally, I think 2 days is too quick to see all 3 cities of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. 5 days works best so you aren’t rushed, but you don’t need 1 week to do the Golden Triangle of India because you won’t need to fit in scheduled train times and time to research as your guide will look after all of that for you.

Honestly, if you can travel to India independently and feel confident doing my itinerary above, I would highly recommend doing it this way, if not, look into a private tour.

Here are some highly-rated private Golden Triangle Tours:

• From Delhi: Private 4-Day Golden Triangle Luxury Tour
• From Delhi: 4-Day Golden Triangle & Ranthambore Tiger Safari
• From Delhi: Private 5-Day Golden Triangle Tour
• Delhi: Private 3-Day Golden Triangle Experience

I hope this post has helped you plan your Golden Triangle India itinerary and given you ideas of how to spend 1 week in India!

• For more of my India posts see:
• Reasons to Book Luxury Camping in Rishikesh, India!
• 5 DELICIOUS Online Indian Cooking Classes To Bring India To Your Home!
• How To Do the Wagah Border Crossing on Foot? India to Pakistan!
• 3 Easy Ways To Get a Sim Card in India For Tourists!
• How To Book Trains in India as a Tourist Online?

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Golden Triangle Itinerary in India: 4, 5 or 6 Days

Are you looking for the perfect itinerary for the Golden Triangle in India? Look no further! This itinerary will take you to Delhi , Agra (famous for the Taj Mahal) and Jaipur , the pink city , in 4, 5 or 6 days. It also includes everything you need to know in order to plan your trip easily.

India’s Golden Triangle is a famous tourist route that got its name from the triangular shape formed by the three cities when you connect them on a map.

This route will bring you along spectacular forts , architectural marvels and one of the seven wonders of the world – the famous Taj Mahal .

The Golden Triangle is perfect for you if you want to see some of India’s highlights and get a taste of what this country is all about. It includes some of India’s best cultural destinations . This being said, India is a huge country that’s incredibly diverse and you could easily spend a lifetime exploring everything it has to offer.

But without further ado, here’s the 4, 5 or 6-day itinerary for the wonderful Golden Triangle of India, one of Asia’s cheapest destinations .

Itinerary for India’s Golden Triangle in 4, 5 or 6 days

This India Golden Triangle itinerary is pretty straightforward. It’s ordered by day and includes everything you need to know to do this trip independently.

Although this itinerary can be done in 4 days if you’re short on time, I would recommend doing it in 5 or 6 days to get the most out of it.

I’ve included a map and a day-to-day schedule (for 4, 5 and 6 days) a the end of this post. I hope this will make it a little bit easier for you to plan your trip.

Day 1: Delhi

This itinerary starts in Delhi, the capital, which is where most people will begin their journey in India.

Contrary to its reputation – because let’s be honest, Delhi doesn’t have the best reputation out there – this city has a lot to offer! India’s vibrant capital is full of beautiful temples and other buildings, including some of the most famous landmarks in India .

After hearing so many horror stories about this city , I was actually pleasantly surprised when I visited Delhi for the first time! However, I have to admit that it’s not all rainbows and sunshine and that there are plenty of scams here. Don’t keep this from visiting Delhi, however, as there are some truly magnificent things to see here!

But I’m drifting off.

It’s good to start the first day early, especially if you only have 4 or 5 days to spend on this Indian Golden Triangle itinerary. This way, you will be able to cover a fair part of Delhi’s most beautiful and interesting places.

>> Read: 11 Tourist Scams in Delhi to Avoid

Highlights of Delhi:

• Red Fort: This enormous fort was built in the 17th century and it was once the residence of the Mughal Emperors. You will find some beautiful structures and an enormous garden here.
• Humayun’s Tomb: Humayun’s Tomb was the first garden tomb in the Indian subcontinent. It was built in 1570 and, back then, it was grander than any other mausoleum ever built in the Islamic world. This tomb later inspired the construction of the beautiful Taj Mahal.
• Lotus Temple: The Lotus Temple is a unique piece of architecture that was built in 1986. This lotus-shaped temple is a Bahá’í House of Worship. This faith teaches the essential worth of all religions and the unity of all people. It’s the perfect place to escape the chaotic centre of the city for a while.
• Chandni Chowk: Head to this bustling market to get a real feel of Delhi. This is one of the city’s oldest and busiest markets and it’s full of merchants selling anything from spices to saris. You may just find the perfect Indian souvenir here!

Have a look at my itinerary for 1 day in Delhi to find out how to make the most of your stay in the capital. It’s perfect for first-timers and includes the city’s highlights.

>> Read: Is Delhi Safe? A Solo Female Traveller’s Perspective

Day 2: Delhi to Agra & Agra fort

Today, you will have to make your way from Delhi to Agra, which is home to the famous Taj Mahal . I went from one city to another by train but you will find the other ways to travel from Delhi to Agra later in this post.

It takes about 4 hours to travel between these cities. So if you leave in the morning, you will have time left to visit Agra Fort in the afternoon – and no, you don’t want to head straight to the Taj Mahal as the best time to visit it is at sunrise!

Agra Fort is the city’s second most popular tourist attraction. This gigantic landmark is also called the Red Fort , just like the one in Delhi. It was built by the Mughal emperor Akbar between 1565 and 1573 and served as the residence of the Mughal Dynasty for 65 years until the capital was moved from Agra to Delhi.

You will find some impressive structures inside Agra Fort and it also offers a unique view of the astonishing Taj Mahal .

Book a ticket for the Taj Mahal

If you haven’t already, you will want to book a ticket for the Taj Mahal today. This can easily be done online. This way, you won’t need to worry about queues and buying tickets tomorrow morning.

>> Read next: What to Wear in India: 5 Tips + Outfit Ideas

Day 3: Taj Mahal

On the third day of this itinerary for the Golden Triangle of India, we’re going to wake up super early to head to the Taj Mahal for sunrise. This place is on top of many traveller’s Indian travel bucket lists !

The Taj Mahal opens 30 minutes before sunrise and that’s the perfect time to arrive. What time exactly that is, however, varies according to the season. So it’s good to check with your hotel the day before.

This wonder of the world was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who passed away in 1631. It’s a spectacular piece of architecture that’s almost completely symmetrical !

The only exception is Shah Jahan’s cenotaph (empty grave). It can be found next to his wife’s cenotaph inside the mausoleum. It’s widely believed that this is not where the emperor’s cenotaph was meant to be.

Make sure to read my tips for visiting the Taj Mahal before your visit. There are quite some things to know in order to make the most of it… and to be allowed inside in the first place.

Other things to do in Agra

Here are some other things to do in Agra if you would like to spend more time here. I have to admit that Agra is not my favourite city in India, though. I thought the merchants were more aggressive here compared to any other place in India (which kind of says a lot).

• Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah: Often called the “baby Taj Mahal”, this was the first mausoleum in India that was made entirely of marble. It was built at the demand of Nur Jahan, the wife of Mughal Emperor Jahangir, in memory of her father, Mirza Ghiyas Beg. The latter’s title was Itmad-ud-Daulah, hence the name of the Baby Taj.
• Metabh Bagh: This park will offer you a different view of the Taj Mahal. It’s located across the river on the backside of this wonder of the world. Note that you do have to pay a fee in order to enter this park.
• I won’t include Agra Fort here (well, technically I just did), as I mentioned it on day 2 of this Golden Triangle itinerary.

Agra to Jaipur

After spending the day (or half a day) in Agra, it’s time to head to Jaipur, the so-called pink city of India. Here, you will find some of Rajasthan’s most important historical landmarks . It takes about 4 hours to get from Agra to Jaipur.

I headed there by train, but there are other ways to get there too (you will find these later in this post). Don’t forget to book your tickets in advance if you’re taking the train, though (but more about this later too).

Day 4 (and 5, optional): Jaipur

Contrary to Delhi and Agra, which are in the state of Uttar Pradesh, Jaipur is in Rajasthan , a state that’s famous for its forts and palaces. This city is also called the “pink city” due to its pink (actually it’s more salmon orange) coloured buildings.

Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and it’s a nice introduction to the state. It boasts an interesting culture and it’s home to some astonishing, salmon-orange landmarks .

Highlights of Jaipur

• Hawa Mahal: This building has one of the most beautiful facades I’ve ever seen and it’s a place you absolutely cannot miss on a visit to Jaipur! The Hawa Mahal was constructed in 1799 by Kachhwaha ruler Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh. Its purpose was to provide royal women with a view of everyday life through the 953 windows. These women could not appear in public, after all.
• Amer Fort: The enormous Amer Fort was completed in 1599 and it’s one of the most famous forts in the state of Rajasthan . You will see some pretty amazing architecture here, including the stunning Sheesh Mahal , and you will also have a chance to learn more about the interesting history of this state.
• City Palace: Jaipur’s City Palace is another piece of beautiful architecture that cannot be missed during a visit to the pink city. It was built in 1727 when Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II moved the capital from Amer to Jaipur.
• Patrika Gate: If you’re into photography, you will LOVE Patrika Gate . This colourful gate serves as an entrance to Jawahar Circle Garden and it’s incredibly photogenic. Surprisingly, this is also one of Jaipur’s newest attractions. It was only built a couple of years ago, in 2016, but it’s already one of the city’s highlights.

Have a look at my 2-day itinerary for Jaipur to find out how to spend 2 days in the pink city. You will find the other highlights of Jaipur in this post too, along with some useful information.

Back to Delhi

If you only have 4 days to spend on the Golden Triangle Route, then it’s time to head back to Delhi this evening .

However, if you have 5 or 6 days , you can spend another day in Jaipur and head back to Delhi in the evening of day 5.

It’s good to know that there are plenty of other great things to do in Jaipur. You could visit other forts, for example, or pay a visit to the Monkey Temple , which is a major Hindu pilgrimage site.

>> Read next: How to AVOID Getting Sick in India: 10 Tips You Need

Day 6: Delhi (optional)

If you have 6 days to spend on this Indian Golden Triangle itinerary, you can either spend another day visiting Delhi or do a day trip from Delhi .

There are a ton of things to discover in Delhi but there are also plenty of nice day trips that you can make from this city.

Some of the best day trips from Delhi are Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary , which is great for bird lovers, Vrindavan , the holy city where Krishna spent his childhood according to the legend and Nuh , which is famous for its ancient fort ruins.

If you decide to spend one more day in Delhi, you could head to Qutub Minar , one of the tallest minarets in the world, Akshardham , a beautiful Hindu Temple or the National Gandhi Museum , where you can learn more about Gandhi. But the possibilities are endless!

Golden Triangle of India itinerary and map

You will find a map and a day-by-day itinerary (for 4, 5 and 6 days) for India’s Golden Triangle below. I hope this will help you plan your trip.

4-days and 5 nights Golden Triangle itinerary

Although it is possible to do the Golden Triangle in 4 days, I would recommend doing it in at least 5 days.

Day 1: Delhi Day 2: Delhi to Agra & Agra Fort Day 3: Taj Mahal Day 4: Jaipur & back to Delhi

5 days and 6 nights Golden Triangle itinerary

Day 1: Delhi Day 2: Delhi to Agra & Agra Fort Day 3: Taj Mahal Day 4: Jaipur Day 5: Jaipur & back to Delhi

6 days and 7 nights Golden Triangle itinerary

Day 1: Delhi Day 2: Delhi to Agra & Agra Fort Day 3: Taj Mahal Day 4: Jaipur Day 5: Jaipur & back to Delhi Day 6: Delhi

Best time to visit the Golden Triangle in India

The best time to visit India’s Golden Triangle is between the months of October and March . This is in the Winter when the weather is at its best and it won’t be too hot.

April to June are the Summer months , which will be blistering hot. I was in India in April and decided to escape to the mountains because of the torrid heat. So if you can’t handle the heat quite well (I really underestimated Indian summers) then this is not the best time to go here.

I visited the Golden Triangle during the monsoon , which is from July to October. Although it was still quite hot, it didn’t rain too much.

How to get around

Delhi, Agra and Jaipur are three very well-connected cities that are easy to reach. They’re all a 4 to 5-hour journey from one another, so you won’t have to spend too much time on the road (especially not in Indian terms).

How to get from Delhi to Agra, Agra to Jaipur and Jaipur to Delhi

The easiest ways to get from one city to another are the following:

• Train: Taking the train is an easy and cheap option to get around India. Note that you will have to book trains in advance, though, as they tend to fill up quickly. It’s good to know that there are different classes in Indian trains, some have AC and others don’t. Keep this in mind while booking your train.
• Bus: Another option is to take the bus, but this is a less popular one that takes a bit longer. However, if there are no train tickets left, it’s good to know that taking the bus is also an option.
• Private car: A third option is to either hire a car with a driver or rent a car and drive yourself . This is a flexible way to get around but it is more expensive too.
• Tour: If you don’t want to organize things yourself, you could opt for this 6-day Golden Triangle tour that includes Udaipur , the so-called city of lakes.

Tip : Make sure to book your train tickets in advance if you’re getting around by train, as trains tend to fill up quickly in this part of the country. This can easily be done online. 12GoAsia is the only website I could find where you can book tickets with a foreign credit card and it didn’t disappoint!

How to get around in Delhi, Agra and Jaipur

Once you’re in a city, you can easily get around by one of the following options:

• Auto-rickshaw: The easiest way to get around cities is by taking an auto-rickshaw. You can find these nearly everywhere but if you don’t want to haggle, it’s better to book via the Ola app . This app works like Uber and this way, you will get a fair price immediately. Rickshaw drivers are notorious for charging foreigners 10 times the local price, after all.
• Bus: If you want to get around the city using public transportation, you can take the bus. This a very cheap way to get around and there are many public buses in all three of these cities (although I would recommend taking the metro instead of the bus in Delhi).
• Metro: This one is only for Delhi, note that there’s no metro system in Agra and Jaipur. The metro in Delhi, on the other hand, is wonderful (I’m a big fan)! It has AC, it’s cheap and it’s the fastest way to get from one place to another as there’s a lot of traffic in Delhi.

Golden Triangle Itinerary in India: FAQs

Is the golden triangle in india worth seeing.

Yes, India’s Golden Triangle is definitely worth seeing! It includes some of India’s most famous landmarks like the Taj Mahal in Agra, the Hawa Mahal in Jaipur and the Red Fort in Delhi.

How long does it take to do the Golden Triangle in India?

You will need at least 4 days to complete the Golden Triangle. This being said, I recommend doing it in at least 5 days to get the most out of your experience.

How do you plan a Golden Triangle trip?

You can either follow this guide and do the trip independently (it’s easy!) or book a Golden Triangle Tour . The latter is perfect for you if you don’t want to organize things yourself.

Golden Triangle itinerary in India: Final thoughts

India’s Golden Triangle is a route that includes some of the country’s most spectacular landmarks. This itinerary is perfect for first-timers who want to get a taste of what this country is all about.

Another thing that’s nice about this route is that the distances aren’t too big (because India, you are a HUGE country). But even by covering short distances, you will get to see many incredible forts, beautiful palaces and one of the seven wonders of the world.

During my visit to the Golden Triangle, my jaw literally dropped a couple of times. Not only is the architecture stunning, but the culture is fascinating too, which makes for an unforgettable trip!

If you have more time in India, I would recommend heading to Rajasthan next. This state is full of amazing forts and palaces, and it has a fascinating culture as well. Check out my itinerary for 7 or 14 days in Rajasthan here.

Read more about India: – The Cost of Travel in India: How Much Does it Cost? – Solo Travel in India: A Complete Guide

Pin it for later: Did you enjoy this itinerary for the Golden Triangle in India? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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9-Day India Golden Triangle Tour with Varanasi

This 9-day tour of India's Golden Triangle and Varanasi is ideal for first-time visitors who want to explore the country's most iconic monuments and experience its holiest city with a spiritual and religious legacy of nearly 3,000 years.

On this journey, you will see the jewel-encrusted white marble Taj Mahal along with other incredible sights including teeming bazaars, immense forts , and colorful streets. You will also gain a deeper understanding of India's spirituality by observing daily life along the Ganges River, a holy river where many Hindu rituals are performed to cleanse all earthly sins and prepare for the soul's final journey to liberation.

• Best For: First-timers
• Departure date: up to you
• Sample price: US$2,039each (2 per room)*
• Flights: The ones mentioned are included (international on request)

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Tour Highlights

Here are the awesome attractions, the most must-do activities selected by Asia Highlights (AH Hand-Picked) , and exclusive cultural experiences offered by Asia Highlights (Only With AH) included in this tour:

Explore the legendary Old Delhi with its Mughal-built monuments and congested bazaars.

Observe the evening aarti ritual when worshipers pray and give offerings to the ganges at dusk., enjoy a heritage walk along the ganges river to have an insider's look at the local life., immerse yourself in the grandeur of rajput royalty during your feature stay in jaipur's heritage hotel ., discover the vibrant pink city of jaipur, whose historic architecture is as magnificent as the city's colorful streets., bask in the fascinating colors of the taj mahal and admire the art of its pietra dura mosaics ., suggested route for a golden triangle tour, itinerary in detail.

Your preferences design the real journey. We're ready to create a wonderful India tour for you.

Welcome to Delhi, India's capital, where the sounds are lively and the colors vibrant. When you arrive at the India Gandhi International Airport, you will be met by our representative and take a private car to your hotel.

• Commence at the majestic Red Fort , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which showcases the architectural brilliance of the Mughal era.
• Visit Jama Masjid , which is India's largest and most magnificent mosque. Built from sandstone and marble, this iconic structure stands as a testament to the rich Islamic heritage of Delhi.
• Embark on a walk to the famous Chandni Chowk , located in the north of Old Delhi. Chandni Chowk is renowned for its vibrant street life, where you can find everything from traditional jewelry and textiles to delectable street food.
• Explore Humayun's Tomb , the first great example of a Mughal garden tomb. Marvel at its impressive architecture and admire the beautiful gardens surrounding the mausoleum.
• Visit Qutub Minar , a soaring tower of historical significance dating back to the 12th century. Admire the intricate carvings and delicate detailing of this magnificent structure.
• Take a morning flight from Delhi to Varanasi . This ancient city has served as a beacon for saints, poets, and pilgrims for countless generations.
• In the late afternoon, set out for a captivating boat ride on the majestic Ganges River . Cruising along the sacred waters, you will witness a mesmerizing spectacle as pilgrims gather along the ghats to perform ancient rituals.
• Proceed to the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple to immerse yourself in the highly choreographed Ganga Aarti ceremony . As the ceremony unfolds, you will witness a mesmerizing sight as people begin waving incense in the air, creating fragrant clouds that permeate the ambiance. The rhythmic movements of devotees circling large lamps, also known as diyas, add a touch of mysticism to the atmosphere.
• Take a serene boat ride at sunrise, where you can witness the magic of morning light bathing the temples along the river. During the boat ride, you will witness the riverbanks come to life as locals engage in their daily activities.
• Spend the rest of the morning exploring the sacred site of Sarnath , which holds immense significance for Buddhists. One of the key attractions in Sarnath is the Dhamekh Stupa , an ancient structure built at the very site where the Buddha is believed to have delivered his sermon.
• To delve deeper into the rich history and culture of Buddhism, visit the Archaeological Museum in Sarnath to learn the thriving Buddhist civilization that once existed in the region.
• Explore the oulent 16th-century Amber Fort . Mughal architectural elements can be observed throughout the fort, exemplified by the ornately carved silver doors, elegant alabaster relief work, and stunning glass inlays that adorn the buildings.
• Head to magnificent Ganesh Pol, which serves as the gateway to three stunning palaces nestled around the picturesque Aram Bagh, a Mughal-style garden.
• Visit the central area of the 'Pink City' of Jaipur. Here, you will encounter the enchanting Hawa Mahal , a mesmerizing architectural gem that beckons you with its delicate beauty.
• Continue your exploration of Jaipur with a visit to the nearby Jantar Mantar Observatory . Described as 'the most realistic and logical landscape in stone,' this fascinating observatory showcases India's astronomical prowess.
• Begin by rising early and embarking on a journey to Agra.
• Visit Fatehpur Sikri , a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site that holds great historical significance. Fatehpur Sikri is a city predominantly constructed from mesmerizing red sandstone and was founded in the 16th century by the renowned Mughal Emperor Akbar. This architectural marvel stands as a testament to the grandeur and legacy of the Mughal dynasty.
• Drive to Agra. On arrival, spend the rest of the day relaxing at your hotel.
• Make your way to the magnificent Taj Mahal . The shimmering morning light illuminates the pristine white marble, creating a mesmerizing display that makes the monument appear ethereal and magical. Marvel at the art of pietra dura, a technique employed in the construction of the Taj Mahal.
• Enter the Agra Fort . Within the fort's premises, you will discover the Khas Mahal, an enchanting marble hall that offers splendid views of the iconic Taj Mahal situated across the Yamuna River.
• Take some time to have a walk in the village near Mehtab Bagh. As you stroll through the village streets, greet the local villagers with a warm hello. As the day draws to a close, head to Mehtab Bagh to witness a breathtaking sunset view of the Taj Mahal.
• Before concluding your excursion in Agra and heading back to Delhi, you will have the opportunity to visit the exquisite Itmad-ud-Daula , often referred to as the "baby Taj Mahal." This architectural gem is sure to leave you in awe as you marvel at its intricate inlaid patterns and fine craftsmanship.

A private car will take you to the Indira Gandhi International Airport to catch your flight home.

Ideas for Making This Trip Uniquely Yours

Special experiences can be added to brighten a honeymoon trip, a family vacation, a birthday, or satisfy personal interests.

Hand-Picked Hotels

We select hotels with style and local features. Let us know your preferences and we'll find your ideal hotel.

Our Service Includes:

• Private transfers and English-speaking tour guide
• All guided sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary
• 4-star accommodations for 8 nights
• Flights and private transfers between cities mentioned in the itinerary
• Meals mentioned in the itinerary
• Governmental taxes

Tour code: ah-in-72

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The Golden Triangle Tour, India: A First-Timer's Guide

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written by Freya Godfrey

updated 06.02.2024

India 's Golden Triangle is a fantastically varied introduction to the sights and sounds of the country. From busy bazaars and hurtling tuk-tuks to tranquil temples and majestic mosques, this is the country at its noisiest and most chaotic. Chances are its colourful exuberance will leave you wanting to return again and again. Here's a first-timer's guide on how to plan a Golden Triangle tour.

What is the Golden Triangle?

How to plan a golden triangle tour, where can i escape the crowds, golden triangle tour #1: the essential golden triangle, golden triangle tour #2: from the ganges to the golden triangle, golden triangle tour #3: gems of india & taj mahal, what’s the best way to get around the golden triangle in india, how can i avoid delhi belly, when is the best time to visit the golden triangle.

The information in this article is inspired by the Rough Guide to India , your essential guide for visiting India .

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The Holy City of Varanasi

The flat, sunburnt plains of the Ganges River are India's breadbasket: a densely populated area, it is home to many of the country's greatest sights. See Delhi and all its treasures, then fly to Varanasi, the most sacred stretch of the Ganges and one of India's most intense and atmospheric places.

Golden Triangle in India is the route between Delhi , Agra and Jaipur . It's named for the almost-equilateral triangle that the three cities make when plotted on a map. Starting in the capital, Delhi, and taking in the states of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan , it’s India’s most well-trodden tourist track. Why “Golden”? Well, for the extraordinary religious and historical sights that the three stops offer.

Taj Mahal in Agra - one of the most famous landmarks of the Golden Triangle in India © Byelikova Oksana/Shutterstock

Planning a trip on your own can be an overwhelming task - hours spent researching, comparing options and often ending up with a generic itinerary. Our India travel experts carefully consider every detail, from selecting the perfect destinations to designing exclusive experiences that match your desires. You no longer have to worry about logistics, accommodation or missing out on hidden attractions. We will have everything covered.

Discover the world of tailor-made travel with our personalised travel service . 

Start in New Delhi

Begin your exploration of the Golden Triangle by immersing yourself in the modern area of New Delhi. Its wide, tree-lined avenues and solid colonial architecture, have been the seat of the central government since 1931.

At its hub, the royal mall, Rajpath, runs from the palatial Rashtrapati Bhavan, in the west, to the India Gate war memorial in the east. It's wide, grassy margins are a popular meeting place for families, picnickers and courting couples.

North of the Rajpath lies busy Connaught Place, one of the city’s most important hubs for dining and drinking; further south, Khan Market is a more chilled-out version of the same, with some great sights on its periphery.

On this tailor-made Essential Golden Triangle trip , you will explore India’s dusty capital Delhi, taking in the Qutab Minar, crowded bazaars and opulent temples before venturing forth to Agra to see the venerable Taj Mahal. Then decamp to the pink city, Jaipur, for an intoxicating introduction to Rajasthan.

Lotus Temple, New Delhi, India © Shutterstock

Visit Old Delhi

Your exploration of the Golden Triangle in India wouldn't be complete without venturing into the captivating world of Old Delhi, also known as Shahjahanabad.

Though it’s not in fact the oldest part of Delhi, the seventeenth-century city of Shahjahanabad, built for the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, is known as Old Delhi. It boasted a beautiful main thoroughfare, Chandni Chowk; an imposing citadel, the Red Fort (Lal Qila); and an impressive congregational mosque, the Jama Masjid.

Today much of the wall has crumbled, and of the fourteen gates only four remain, but it’s still a fascinating area, crammed with interesting nooks and crannies, though you’ll need stamina, patience, time, and probably a fair few chai stops along the way to endure the crowds and traffic.

Get amazed by Agra

Prepare to be awe-struck as you make your way to the magnificent Taj Mahal , Agra 's premier sight and one of the most romantic places in the world .

Nothing can really prepare you for the sheer scale and regal splendour of the structure up close. Try to time your visit with sunrise or sunset, when the Taj is at its most majestic. Nearby Agra Fort is also well worth a visit. You can spot the Taj Mahal rising up in the distance from its walls.

Stay in the most beautiful hotels, and have a knowledgeable private tour guide by your side all throughout this unique tailor-made trip to the Gems of India & Taj Mahal . Visit highlights like the Taj Mahal but also unknown areas like the villages in Rajasthan for nature, wildlife and cultural encounters unique to India.

Agra Fort © Shutterstock

Discover Fatehpur Sikri

The ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri, the former imperial capital of the great Mughal emperor Akbar, straddles the crest of a rocky ridge on the Agra–Jaipur highway. The reasons for the city’s abandonment remain enigmatic. The more likely explanation is that the city was simply the victim of the vagaries of the empire’s day-to-day military contingencies.

Shortly after the new capital was established, the empire was threatened by troubles in Punjab, and Akbar moved to the more strategically situated Lahore to deal with them.

These military preoccupations kept Akbar at Lahore for over a decade, and at the end of this period, he decided, apparently for no particular reason, to return to Agra rather than Fatehpur Sikri. You, on the other hand, might decide to do the opposite: an increasing number of tourists are using Fatehpur Sikri as a base and travelling into Agra on a day trip.

From Dehli's bustling dusty streets to 'the pink city' of Jaipur and Agra's Taj Mahal, this tailor-made trip from the Ganges to the Golden Triangle ensures you experience all of India's Golden Triangle highlights. You'll visit sacred Varanasi on the banks of the Ganges and Khajuraho's famous temples too.

Marvel at Jaipur 's architecture

You might want to spend 2 days in a flamboyant showcase of Rajasthani architecture. Jaipur has long been established on tourist itineraries as the third corner of India’s “Golden Triangle”, along with Agra and Delhi. At the heart of Jaipur lies the Pink City, the old walled quarter, whose bazaars rank among the most vibrant in Asia, renowned for their textiles, jewellery and Rajasthani handicrafts.

Wander around the centre to stumble across historical highlights such as Hawa Mahal and the impressive City Palace . Jaipur is well known for traditional crafts and designs, so it’s the place to shop for fabrics and presents to take home.

On the second day of your visit to Jaipur, venture into the leafier and less hectic area south of the Pink City. This area is home to the Ram Niwas Gardens and Central Museum. The city’s outskirts are dotted with a string of intriguing relics of royal rule, most notably Nahargarh Fort, the cenotaphs at Royal Gaitor, and the temples (and monkeys) of Galta.

Additionally, forts, palaces, temples and assorted ruins from a thousand years of Kachchwaha history adorn the hills and valleys near Jaipur. The superb palace at Amber provides the most obvious destination for a day trip, easily combined with a visit to the impressive fort of Jaigarh.

Hawa Mahal Palace of the Winds in Jaipur, India © Shutterstock

End in South Delhi

A great way to end your Golden Triangle journey would be to return to Delhi, specifically to explore South Delhi. Most of the early settlements of Delhi, including its first city at Qila Rai Pithora are to be found not in “Old Delhi” but in South Delhi, the wide area south of Lutyens’ carefully planned boulevards.

The rapid expansion of suburban Delhi has swallowed up what was previously the countryside, with whole villages being embedded within it. The area is now home to some of the city’s newest and most happening locales, most pertinently Hauz Khas Village, a lakeside area filled with shops, bars and restaurants.

Heritage site Agra Fort (or Red Fort) in India © f11photo/Shutterstock

Throughout the Golden Triangle in India, the best way to escape from the throng is often to step into one of the many Hindu, Sikh and Muslim buildings scattered around the cities. Inside, you will find oases of calm, as well as some of the circuit’s most beautiful structures.

In Delhi, just a short drive away from the city centre, visit Swaminarayan Akshardham. This Hindu temple was built in 2011 using traditional methods, but it's grandness and intricate decoration evoke a far older era. It’s a huge complex, and photography is banned. This gives a welcome opportunity for peaceful reflection away from the selfie sticks and smartphones snapping away in most of the city’s monuments.

The Taj Mahal and Agra Fort are invariably jam-packed, so consider taking a day trip to nearby Fatehpur Sikri if you really want to get away from it all. The small city was once the capital of the Mughal Empire. It's an hour from Agra, and the grand, red sandstone Jodha Bais palace buildings and imposing Jama Masjid mosque remain comparatively less visited.

Jaipur is the least hectic of the Golden Triangle’s cities. Just wandering around the backstreets you’ll be able to find yourself off the main tourist track. Outside the city, Nahargarh Fort gives the best viewpoint over the sprawling streets. A visit to Galtaji is an entertaining opportunity to admire the hundreds of rhesus macaque monkeys that have taken over the ancient temple complex.

Aerial view of Jaipur from Nahargarh Fort at sunset © Sean Hsu/Shutterstock

During this 5-day trip , you'll discover Delhi's secrets, capture its colourful night scenery through a photographer's lens and immerse yourself in its rich historical heritage.

The first day is a unique night photography experience in Delhi, showcasing the transformation of the city under the night sky. Day two offers a historical city tour, highlighting Delhi's rich and varied history. Day three is an introduction to the famous Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. 

The fourth day is dedicated to exploring the culture of Jaipur, which combines architectural influences. Day five concludes the journey with a transfer from Jaipur to Delhi.

Itinerary overview

Check this overview of the Golden Triangle 5-day itinerary:

• Discover Delhi by Night as a Photographer
• Overnight in Delhi
• Architectural Tour of Delhi
• Overnight in Agra
• The Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri
• Overnight in Jaipur
• Jaipur Culture Tour
• Overnight in Jaipu.
• Transfer to Delhi and departure

Ready to embark on an adventure? Book your trip now .

The Taj Mahal, Agra, Uttar Pradesh © Yury Taranik / Shutterstock

From Dehli's bustling dusty streets to 'the pink city' of Jaipur and Agra's Taj Mahal, this 10-day trip ensures you experience all of India's Golden Triangle highlights.

The first day begins with arrival in Delhi, followed by an afternoon tour of Old Delhi. On the second day , you will fly to Varanasi where you will enjoy a mesmerising evening river walk and a candlelight Puja ceremony.

On the third day , you will witness the dawn Puja ceremony, tour the city temples and visit Sarnath. On the fourth day , you will travel to Khajuraho to admire the UNESCO-listed temples.

Day five includes a transfer to Orchha, in the evening you will board a train to Agra. Day six is dedicated to exploring Agra, with visits to the legendary Taj Mahal and Agra Fort.

On the seventh day , you will proceed to Fatehpur Sikri. On the eighth day , a sightseeing tour of Jaipur is planned, including the impressive Amber Fort and the City Palace.

On the ninth day , you can do some shopping in Jaipur and on the tenth day , you will depart from Delhi International Airport.

Check this overview of the Golden Triangle 10-day itinerary:

• Arrival in Delhi and City Tour
• Candlelight Puja Ceremony
• Overnight in Varanasi
• Ganges River Morning Ceremony
• The Temples of Khajuraho
• Overnight in Khajuraho
• Visit the Temples of Orcha
• Taj Mahal and Agra Fort - Golden Triangle with Varanasi and Khajuraho
• Fatehpur Sikri Visit
• Overnight Jaipur
• Amber Fort and City Palace
• Shopping in Jaipur
• Overnight Delhi
• Departure from Delhi

Feeling curious? You can take a step forward and book this trip now .

Jaipur City Palace © Shutterstock

Stay in the most beautiful hotels, and have a knowledgeable private tour guide by your side throughout this 15-day unique trip to India . Visit highlights like the Taj Mahal and unknown areas like the villages in Rajasthan for nature, wildlife and cultural encounters unique to India.

The first day welcomes you to Delhi. You will be transferred to your hotel. The second day is a city tour covering Old and New Delhi.

On the third day , you will visit the Agra Fort. On the fourth day , you will admire the beauty of the Taj Mahal before travelling to Jaipur. The fifth day in Jaipur invites you to explore the bazaars, savour the food and appreciate the local handicrafts.

On the sixth day , you will travel to the village of Chhatrasagar. Day seven begins with a sunrise yoga session on the shores of Chhatrasagar Lake, followed by a bird-watching boat tour.

On the eighth day , you will depart Chhatrasagar for Jawai. On the ninth day , a morning leopard safari and a visit to a Rabari settlement are planned. On the tenth day , you will leave Jawai for Udaipur.

Day eleven includes a tour of Udaipur and a cookery workshop. The twelfth day includes a flight to Mumbai. Day thirteen is dedicated to exploring the markets and temples of Mumbai.

Day fourteen offers a unique 'Community Experience' excursion where you will visit slums and experience the life of the local people. Finally, on the fifteenth day , you bid farewell to India.

Check this overview of the Golden Triangle 15-day itinerary:

• Arrival in Delhi
• City Tour - Old and New Delhi
• From Delhi to Agra
• Visit Agra Fort
• Cycle Rickshaw for a glimpse of the Taj Mahal
• Morning visit to Taj Mahal
• From Agra to Jaipur
• Rajasthan Cultural Walking Tour
• Jaipur - Bazars, cuisine and crafts
• From Jaipur to Chhatrasagar Village
• Sundowner and dinner
• Overnight in Pushkar
• Yoga at sunrise
• Birding boat excursion
• Overnight Pushkar
• From Chhatrasagar to Jawai
• Overnight Deogarh
• Leopard safari
• Rabari Settlement
• From Jawai to Udaipur
• Overnight in Udaipur
• Udaipur City Tour
• Cooking Class
• From Udaipur to Mumbai
• Overnight in Mumbai
• Mumbai - markets and temples
• Community Experience Tour - Visit the Slums
• Departure from Mumbai

Ready for some adventure? You can go ahead and book this trip now .

Albert Hall, Jaipur, India @ Shutterstock

The Golden Triangle in India is well connected by public transport. If you’re on a strict budget, the cheapest way to travel is by bus. Indian bus journeys are an experience in their own right, as people tumble in, perching on armrests and sitting in the aisle.

Far and away the best way to travel around India's Golden Triangle is by train . You’ll have the opportunity to catch a glimpse of rural India as you roll through the countryside. Book your ticket in advance, either online or at a train station.

Otherwise, if you only have a few days, consider hiring a taxi from a government-approved company to take you around, allowing you to see as much as you can in the time available.

Within the cities, take an autorickshaw (or tuk-tuk) between destinations. Thick traffic makes these small vehicles the most effective way to travel, as they dip and dive between taxis and trucks. They can be hair-raising, but also fast, inexpensive (make sure you agree on a price beforehand) and a fun way to see India's Golden Triangle at its most chaotic.

A tuk tuk - auto-rickshaw, India © Dmitry Kalinovsky/Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

Not everyone gets ill while touring the Golden Triangle in India, but it can put a downer on your holiday. The so-called “Delhi belly” comes from drinking unsafe water. The cheapest and most environmentally friendly strategy to avoid it is to use water purification tablets. If you struggle with the taste, bottled water is also readily available (just ensure that the lid is sealed).

Make sure your food is always hot and freshly cooked. Avoid raw fruit and vegetables, which may have been washed in unfiltered water. Finally, don't worry too much and you’ll be able to make the most of the delicious curries and Indian snacks on offer.

Deciding when to travel to the Golden Triangle in India can be complicated, due to its extremely varied weather. India’s seasons are split into the wet, humid monsoon season, and the dry, cool season.

The best time to visit the Golden Triangle is November to March when the majority of the country is at a comfortable temperature with good weather. Delhi, Agra, Rajasthan and Varanasi are perfect for a visit in this period.

October and November are suitable times to visit Delhi and the Golden Triangle, as there are more bearable temperatures, similar to February and March. However, during October and November, you may encounter a lot more tourists at popular sites and landmarks. Crowds can become a nuisance for places like the Red Fort or the Taj Mahal. Both domestic and international tourists visit the capital at this time.

The Haji Ali Dargah, a famous tomb and a mosque in Mumbai © Shutterstock

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Top image: Agra downtown with Taj Mahal, India © turtix/Shutterstock

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Touring India’s Golden Triangle

By India specialist Rowena

India isn’t a destination of bite-sized proportions; it’s a country that requires some choices. Do you head north or south, and then into which region? In India’s north, the three cities of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur stand, in Indian terms, a relatively tiny matter of 125 to 155 miles (200 to 250 km) apart. Connect them by straight lines and you have the Golden Triangle — India boiled down into one manageable route. A three-pointed area defined by the Taj Mahal, some of the best bazaars I’ve wandered around, and heritage and architecture ranging from Mughal to colonial. Especially if you have never visited India before, I suggest this is where you start.

Explore Old Delhi’s narrow lanes

India’s capital, New Delhi , is a place of extremes. Though I’ve found it overwhelming at times, a few days spent here reveals the old and new faces of India’s architecture, its society, and its food.

Driving down the wide boulevards of New Delhi, the elegant colonial designs and airy street layouts of architect Sir Edwin Lutyens soon give way to Old Delhi’s maze of narrow, tightly packed lanes.

To navigate the chaotic streets, take a bicycle rickshaw with your guide. Ask to visit India’s largest mosque, the Jama Masjid. It was built in contrasting marble and red sandstone for the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and is reminiscent in outline to the Taj Mahal.

More adventurously, you can join one of the many cycling tours that travel through the old and new sides of the city. They demand an early start (to avoid the heat of the day and the worst of the traffic), but you’ll see sights you might miss from the car, as the city comes to life.

While Old Delhi emits the type of sensory overload that has come to embody India, I prefer to stay in the leafy avenues of New Delhi. For a taste of Raj-era luxury, The Imperial oozes elegance and historical appeal. The Manor is a boutique hideaway, with just 14 rooms and suites as well as pretty lawns where you can take afternoon tea. The highlight is the award-winning Indian Accent restaurant.

Travel from Delhi to Agra and visit the Taj Mahal

Delhi and Agra are well connected by rail, and the new Gatimaan Express train can cover the trip in just 1 hour and 40 minutes, basking under the accolade of India’s fastest train. It also runs to a timetable that doesn’t depart from Delhi as painfully early as the slightly slower alternative, the Shatabdi Express.

By car, the express highway is just as convenient an option for the journey, but the city traffic can make the start and end somewhat slow going; I’d recommend an early start.

The Taj Mahal has an ethereal quality that’s hard to capture in words or on camera. The light glances off the inlaid semi-precious stones and the marble takes on the changing light tones of the day and the season.

For an alternative, longer distance view, I like to visit the gardens of Metah Bagh, just across the Yamuna River from the Taj and where you can stand and look down a long grass avenue toward its white minarets. You’ll have to fight the traffic to get there (your guide will escort you), but I can vouch that the views are more-than-ample reward. It’s also worth noting that fog afflicts Agra in December and January, but your guide will advise you on the best time of day to visit.

There’s a legend that tells how Emperor Shah Jahan had planned his own black marble mausoleum in the garden to complement the Taj, built in the memory of his beloved Mumtaz. Imprisoned by his son, he spent the rest of his life looking out from his cell in Agra Fort to the distant Taj, his own mausoleum never to see the light of day.

The vast majority of Agra’s hotels fall into the bracket of large and international properties. Although sometimes luxurious and often with plenty of facilities and amenities, they can lack charm and character. But there is one place to stay, which I like to use, that bucks this trend: a little homestay called the Coral Tree . Within walking distance of the Taj Mahal, it has only seven rooms and is a family affair, run by Vandna and Gopal Singh. I’d classify the accommodation and facilities as simple, but you stay for the family’s hospitality and their wonderful vegetarian cooking, which you eat with them around their dining table.

Track tigers in Ranthambhore

After a few days in the thick of Delhi and Agra, time allowing, you can opt to step off the main Golden Triangle route with a visit to the Ranthambhore National Park . Once a hunting ground for a line of maharajas, the park now protects a burgeoning tiger population. It’s also home to a vast range of other wildlife, including blackbucks, macaques and (though rare) leopards.

Easy to get to by road and a short train journey from Agra, the park has become busier in recent years, though tiger sightings have also increased. I’d suggest staying two nights here, so you can embark on game drives on both mornings and one evening to increase your chances of seeing a tiger or, if luck is really on your side, a group of them.

All the hotels that service the park lie outside its boundaries, in the surrounding buffer areas. Among them is Khem Villas , which never loses its appeal. Sitting back on the veranda of your cottage, you might feasibly spot a desert fox or a jungle cat ambling through the undergrowth of the surrounding grasslands.

Lose yourself in Jaipur’s bazaars

For me, the absolute highlight of the Golden Triangle is the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur , a four to five-hour drive from Ranthambhore. The city flowered under a succession of Hindu kings and has a redoubtable quota of palaces and temples, even by India’s standards.

And, within the city, nothing quite compares with the sensory experience of touring the bazaars : the richness of fabrics on the sari stalls, the bright domes of spices, the intense aromas, and an occasional meandering cow. In Jaipur’s markets you find the very epitome of ‘India’.

Taking an evening walk through the bazaar with your guide, when the heat of the day has passed, is a chance to see the markets as they come to life, as families gather around cups of chai (spiced tea boiled with milk and sugar) and local shoppers haggle for goods.

The Amber Fort stands atop a hill, Parthenon-like, roughly 11 km (7 miles) from Jaipur. One of the best-known pieces of architectural history in Rajasthan, the fort’s far-reaching views of the Aravalli Range are distracting, but not at the expense of its intricate carvings and the Sheesh Mahal (mirror palace), where the sunlight dances across thousands of tiny mirrored mosaic pieces that come together in geometrically arranged depictions of plants and flowers.

Jaipur was the setting for the 2011 film The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel , and for a taste of this style of architecture, if not the hotel’s eccentric inhabitants, I recommend DeraMandawa . In this small hotel, the hosts, Mr and Mrs Singh, have created a homely, welcoming environment.

Equally charming and with more facilities, Samode Haveli is in central Jaipur. When I stayed, as dusk settled, I sat on the rooftop terrace as the sounds from the busy street below floated up.

Stay at a Maharaja’s palace

If time allows, end your tour of the Golden Triangle by relaxing for a few days in the small village of Samode in the Aravalli Hills, a one-hour drive from Jaipur, en route to Delhi.

Rural life in the Golden Triangle’s dusty plains comes as a refreshing change from the chaos of the cities, with nothing more to do than explore the narrow winding lanes of the village, its houses decorated with an eclectic mix of historic frescoes and advertisements.

The 475-year-old Samode Palace is now a luxurious hotel, and a destination in itself. Built by nobleman Go al Singhji for the royal family of Samode, the palace is surrounded by the Samode Bagh, carefully tended Mughal gardens graced by pavilions and long channels of water. Gardens were deemed a vital part of 16th-century palace design and used for entertaining guests and greeting dignitaries.

Almost every surface of the palace is decorated with intricate murals, mirrors and hand block-printed textiles. The rooms have space and character; historical touches include the original harem windows and antique furniture. The real highlight of staying in this luxurious hideaway — aside from the rooftop pool and great service — is the view of the surrounding hills.

Extending your trip

Visit udaipur.

The Golden Triangle slots in to a longer tour of Rajasthan that takes in the city of Udaipur in the south. I like to stay at Fort Barli , a few hours’ drive from Jaipur, before continuing the road journey to Udaipur and flying, homebound, from there via Delhi or Mumbai .

Set on the banks of Lake Pichola, Udaipur has adopted the placidness of the water, a relaxed atmosphere in which to end your trip exploring the lanes and shops tucked away under archways and taking a boat trip across the lake from where you can look back and see the full beauty of the city.

Stay with a local community

For an experience that really allows you to connect with a local community in rural Rajasthan, I can’t praise a stay at Araveli Cottages and Tented Camp enough. A two-hour drive from Udaipur , Araveli gives you an opportunity to mix with local villagers (some of whom help run the camp) and try your hand at a number of traditional practices, including chapati making and creating textiles using natural dyes.

Araveli is a brainchild of WE Charity (formerly Free The Children), and you can also see first-hand the incredible work it’s doing to benefit the local community through visits to nearby schools and a health clinic.

Best time to visit India’s Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle is best visited between October and November or February and April, when temperatures are comfortable throughout the day, dipping slightly at night when a light jumper should suffice if you’re outdoors. December and January are similarly pleasant in the daytime, but night-time temperatures can be very cold. Added to this is a risk of morning fog, which can obscure sites and cause train delays.

Plan your trip to India's Golden Triangle

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Luxury rail tour: a taste of the Maharajas' Express & western Rajasthan

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Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They’re just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.

Further reading

• What to do in India: our highlights guide
• River cruises in India
• Family holidays in India
• Rajasthan & the north: beyond the Golden Triangle
• Choosing the right Indian experience for you

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India’s Golden Triangle: Ultimate Travel Guide & Best Tips

From crazy Delhi to the world wonder of the Taj Mahal and on to Jaipur: A trip around the Golden Triangle is fascinating, confronting and one adventure that you won’t forget any time soon. Some of the country’s most beautiful and most significant sights are located in the Golden Triangle in northern India.

Are you planning a trip to India’s Golden Triangle? In this travel guide we reveal our top tips for you: What is the most ideal travel route through the Golden Triangle? When is the best time to travel? How safe is a trip to India? How do I get from A to B? The answer to all these questions can be found in our personal travel guide .

1. The Golden Triangle in India: Overview & Important Travel Tips

2. getting to india: tips for your visa, 3. transport in the golden triangle: how to get from a to b, 4. itinerary around the golden triangle in india, 5. staying the night: accommodation in the golden triangle, 6. travel costs in india, 7. eating and drinking in india’s golden triangle, 8. safety in india: how safe is a trip through the golden triangle, 9. taking photos in india.

What to expect in the Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle is the most famous tourist region in northern India and stretches itself across the two states of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. Some of the most well-known attractions in India are located in the Golden Triangle.

As the name suggests, you travel to three locations : first to Delhi, the capital of India. Then of course to the Taj Mahal, one of the seven world wonders. And last but not least, to the so-called Pink City, Jaipur, which is the state capital of Rajasthan.

The best Travel Time for the Golden Triangle

The optimal time to travel to the Golden Triangle is February and March . From April onwards the thermometer can get up to over 40 degrees Celsius. On the other hand, it can sometimes be quite cool in December and January. Monsoon season prevails in the summer months of July and August. The climate is suitable for travelling again in October and December.

When deciding what time to travel you should always keep in mind the Indian holidays . For example, we were in India for Holi , which was of course very exciting on the one hand, but can be a little more restricting on the other.

Travel Guide: Our Tip

Of course, you can find many tips on the internet, however we still whole-heartedly recommend you also use a printed travel guide. Our choice was the Lonely Planet Rajasthan, Delhi & Agra and we didn’t regret it one bit. 

As with all the Lonely Planet travel guides, this one is also very clear and well laid out . In addition, it isn’t as thick and heavy as the complete guide to India. Highly recommend!

You can purchase the travel guide here: Lonely Planet Rajasthan, Delhi & Agra

Citizens of most countries require a visa to travel to India. Most of them can conveniently apply for an electronic e-tourist visa , at the latest four days before you arrive.

You will need a photo for your application and, oddly enough, in a square format. In addition, you need to scan the first page of your passport (i.e. the one with the information and photo).

The e-tourist visa is valid for a month . (A little side information: you can also apply for the e-tourist visa for one year. However, the maximum length of stay is only 90 days, so even if you have the 1-year visa you need to leave the country again.)

The price of the e-tourist visa varies depending on the time of travel: it costs 10 dollars between April and June, and 25 dollars between July and March. We definitely recommend applying for the visa on the official website, because many agents charge an additional fee on top.

Official website: India e-Tourist Visa Application

Transport Options

The most comfortable (and also most expensive) form of travel is of course to have a private driver . You can stop when you want and be very flexible. In addition, a private driver is also a great option in terms of safety.

The train is a fantastic option to get from A to B in India. Personally, we were very impressed with the morning train ride to Agra. We really enjoyed watching the landscape pass by.

The third option: you can of course also use public buses to travel through India. But truth be told, that was a little too adventurous for our first trip to India.

Tip: Booking Transport Tickets

We ourselves decided on a combination of having a private driver and travelling by train and found it was perfect. Unfortunately, it isn’t so easy to book train tickets for India from Europe, because you often need an Indian telephone number to book.

However, we have a tip for you: with 12go.asia you can book without a problem. You can even book private drivers or bus tickets on there if you like.

You can book your transport here: Transport in India via 12go.asia

Individual or organised?

One of the most important questions that you need to ask before your trip to India’s Golden Triangle is: do you want to make your own way around or would you like some help with organising your trip ? Of course, both have their pros and cons.

We didn’t want to go in completely alone on our first trip to India, so we decided to travel to India with erlebe, a German tour operator. Erlebe supported us in organising our transport and with booking train tickets, private transport and accommodation.

That way we could make our way around by ourselves, but still enjoy a little comfort. When we arrived in Delhi, we received all of the documents from an employee of a partner agency. That is of course practical, because we didn’t need to worry ourselves with all of that while there.

Getting around in the Cities

For transport within the cities , we mostly made our way around on a motorised rickshaw . We usually paid around 50 Indian rupees, depending on the length of the trip. Sometimes we also used cycle rickshaws.

In Delhi we travelled around using the subway . In principle, that is very simple and cheap: the tickets were purchased at the counter before entering, the price per trip was around 10 rupees. Although, you usually still needed to walk another long stretch to reach your final destination. Taxis are a suitable solution for longer distances.

A trip around the Golden Triangle takes you to the three highlights in northern India . In principle, the route is always the same – you just need to decide in which direction you would like to travel.

Most people start their Golden Triangle trip in Delhi, because the largest airport in India is located here. Even though Delhi can be very overcrowded, we were able to acclimatise really well there. We recommend you stay around three nights in Delhi.

More detailed travel guide: Delhi Travel Tips

From Delhi we continued by train to Agra. As unspectacular as Agra is, all paths lead to this city because India’s sanctuary, the Taj Mahal, is located here. Two nights is enough time, three is even better.

More detailed travel guide: Sunrise at the Taj Mahal

The third and last stop on the Golden Triangle trip is Jaipur, also known as the Pink City. Jaipur is just a five-hour drive away from Agra. You should be sure to make a stop off at Fatehpur Sikri and allow around two to three hours there. We stayed two nights in Jaipur itself. That was enough time, but if you like a more relaxing visit, you should stay three nights.

More detailed travel guide: Jaipur Travel Tips

Here’s the thing with the hotels in India: many of them are very cheap, but they definitely don’t meet the European standard. Unfortunately, many hotels in India leave a lot to be desired, especially when it comes to cleanliness.

In terms of style, many hotels in India are very grand and kitschy . Many hotels are also heritage hotels , which indicates that you can expect an authentic, often magnificent hotel. These hotels are mainly situated in a historic family house.

If you would like a certain standard of hotel in northern India, then you need to allow around 50 to 70 euros per night (for a double room). Breakfast is usually included in the price.

Our Hotel Tips

Bungalow 99

A great, modern, boutique hotel! Pretty design, very comfortable rooms – highly recommended!

The Coral Court Homestay

Family run, very clean homestay with a rooftop terrace and great breakfast.

Pearl Palace Heritage – The Boutique Guesthouse

Really kitschy, but therefore something special. The rooms look like a fairy-tale – a typical heritage hotel experience.

Money: Currency and Paying in India

The currency in India is Indian rupees . There are many ATMs, but in our experience, they often don’t work. We also had some cash (euros) with us, which we definitely did not regret. Changing euros into Indian rupees is not a problem in many hotels. However, the rate is often not the best. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere in the larger restaurants and hotels. 

Travel Costs in the Golden Triangle

What does … cost in India?

• Double room in a nice hotel: 50 to 100 euros per night
• Evening meal for two including drinks in a nice restaurant: 600-700 Indian rupees
• Beer in a restaurant: 250 Indian rupees (alcohol is fairly expensive)
• Entrance to Taj Mahal: 1,300 Indian rupees
• Train ride from Delhi to Agra (1st class): around 1,500 Indian rupees 

So you can see: India is a very cheap travel destination . You might need to pay a little more for beautiful hotels and sights. Eating out and transport are very affordable though.

The food in northern India and Rajasthan is phenomenally good. Believe us: You will love it! If you don’t like spicy food, you should let them know when you order, as India is known for its spicy dishes .

India is a paradise for vegetarians and vegans: there are vegetarian meals everywhere and usually also vegan dishes. Many restaurants in India are also exclusively vegetarian.

Our favourite dish is Shahi Paneer . Paneer is a type of cream cheese that is served in a variety of ways. Shahi Paneer is prepared with an unbelievably delicious, creamy tomato sauce. Of course, the countless dal dishes made with lentils are also a highlight. Dal Makhani is typical for northern India and downright delicious.

It is also best to order a classic or garlic naan bread to eat with the various curries and some rice. Thali is also highly recommendable: you get a variety of dishes in many small bowls and some rice and bread along with it.

One note about hygiene in India : You often read that a gastro illness is all part of a trip to India. We can’t confirm this, as we didn’t have any issues in that regard. However, we did pay close attention to what we were eating and where. We avoided street food completely. The fact is: even if you follow the rules, you can unfortunately easily catch a gastro infection in India.

Our Favourite Restaurants

Peacock Rooftop Restaurant:  A great restaurant in Jaipur, in which we ate three times! The food is fantastic (try the Thali!), the atmosphere great and there is even good coffee. If you come in the evening, you should make a reservation.

Karim’s:  Very good and authentic restaurant in the centre of Delhi, in which many locals also eat. The Shahi Paneer is extremely delicious.

Shankara Vegis Restaurant:  Very nice vegetarian restaurant in the centre of Agra with a rooftop terrace.

We were very sceptical before our trip. The many negative headlines about India made our stomachs churn a little. We can reassure you: not once did we ourselves feel unsafe in Inia and didn’t have any negative experiences.

Still, we don’t want to downplay the danger, especially for females travelling alone. We were very happy that the two of us were travelling together, because we felt a lot safer that way. India certainly requires the right portion of caution and common sense – that much is certain.

Our concrete Tips for Safety

• In the evenings we tried to avoid walking alone in the streets if possible. Most crimes take place after dark. Therefore, we really tried as much as we could not to go out in the evenings. Of course, you also want to go out for meals. We always took a taxi for those stretches. It is best to book the taxi through your accommodation.
• We recommend all women wear appropriate  clothing . Kathi was always sure to cover up. We can recommend long trousers, lose clothing and no low cut tops. It is best to always have a large scarf with you, which you can drape over your shoulders if needed.
• Unfortunately, India has a deep patriarchal structure . Therefore, you see a lot more men on the street than women. Men sometimes come uncomfortably close. In India there is a different relationship to distance, i.e. there is often little physical distance between your counterpart when having a conversation. As a women you should be especially cautious that other men don’t come too close. You can and should also clearly and confidently communicate this.
• Despite having conservative clothing, you have to adjust tot he looks from other men . Some will also try to secretly take pictures of you. However, some will not put in any effort to hide it.
• If you feel really unsafe, then we can highly recommend travelling with a private driver .

The Golden Triangle in India is a paradise for photography fans . Aside from the many great buildings and palaces, the people are of course also an unbelievably fascinating photo motif. Sometimes you need to pay an additional fee at the entrance to various sights for your camera.

When photographing people , we always ask the person for permission beforehand. It is best to pick a person that you have somewhat of a relationship with: your rickshaw driver or vendor for example. If you ask politely, very few people will say no. (Only a tiny proportion will refuse.)

Disclaimer: Invitation & Affiliate Links

erlebe covered most of the costs while there (accommodation and transport). We paid for the flights and some of the activities ourselves. This travel guide contains our personal recommendations in the form of affiliate links. If you book or buy something via the links, we will receive a small commission. This will not change the price for you at all. A million thanks from the both of us! 

Have you already been to India and have additional tips for a trip through the Golden Triangle? Let us know in the comments – we look forward to it!

You might also be interested in this

Best of Jaipur: Travel Guide & Top Things to Do

Sunrise at the Taj Mahal: Travel Guide and Tips

Delhi Travel Guide: Top Things to Do & Our Travel Tips

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Golden Triangle of India: Ultimate Itinerary & Planning Tips

India’s Golden Triangle is one of the most iconic travel journeys in the world. The classic tourist route takes you through some of the nation’s best destinations, as you travel from Delhi to Agra, to Jaipur and back to Delhi again.

The Golden Triangle India is a great way to see a diverse portion of the country, and for first-time travelers to India, it’s an easy and established route that will ease you into the somewhat chaotic Indian travel scene.

It’s accessible, it’s beautiful and it’s a great travel itinerary . Here’s our essential guide to the Golden Triangle of India, to inspire you to travel this classic route.

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet India (Travel Guide)

Golden Triangle of India: Itinerary and Planning Tips

Table of Contents

What is the Golden Triangle of India?

The Golden Triangle of India is one of the most popular and well-established tourist routes in the country. Traditionally, the triangular route between three of the most iconic Indian destinations begins in the capital Delhi, allowing travelers to fly in from almost anywhere in the world to begin their journey.

Next, the triangle takes visitors south-east to Agra, home of the world-renowned Taj Mahal, before heading west to Jaipur, the historic capital of the state of Rajasthan.

The total distance between each city averages out to be around 150 miles per leg, ensuring that travel time is quite low while also encompassing a wide range of sights and attractions .

Of course, the standard route has many excellent possibilities for extensions and additions, particularly in the western portion, where you can begin to explore more of Rajasthan than just Jaipur, before returning again to Delhi.

How to Travel the Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle is one of the simplest itineraries to take on when visiting India.

Many tour companies have regular trips taking visitors to the highlights and if you are looking to enjoy a small piece of India without any of the hassles, then this is a great way to experience it.

Independent travelers will also find it easy to travel the route, and between each city, there are fast, comfortable buses and regular high-speed trains.

From Delhi to Agra, the fastest trains take only two hours, while trains from Agra to Jaipur take four hours, and from Jaipur onto Delhi, again four hours depending on the train.

The public transport is frequent and cost-effective and when in India, it’s all part of the experience.

Depending on any extra stops you want to add into the classic itinerary, most travelers will complete the three primary destinations in a minimum of a week.

Perfect for those with limited time to spend in the country. To slow down a little, 10 to 14 days of travel will give you the chance to take everything in and add in a few extra stops too.

Search for Flights: Priceline and Skyscanner offer great deals to India.

When to Travel the Golden Triangle

This northern region of India enjoys warm weather all through the year, with particularly hot summers that can be overbearing. Rajasthan is arid and desert-like, and there’s little rainfall throughout most of the year.

T he short monsoon arrives between June and September and you can expect humid weather and large downpours. Most of the route is still very much accessible during the monsoon though.

You will find prices are cheaper and the attractions are quieter too, so it can, in fact, be an interesting time to travel to the Golden Triangle India.

The busiest time of year to travel the Golden Triangle India route is from November through to March. During winter, the weather is at its best, with no rainfall and no humidity.

You will find prices are highest, transport will be busy and the most iconic sights, especially the Taj Mahal, are always crowded.

Best Stops Along the Golden Triangle of India

Delhi is the first stop for most travelers taking on the Golden Triangle India. The nation’s capital has fantastic air links to international destinations, making it a great place to fly in and out of, while the city itself can be an excellent start and endpoint for your adventure.

Delhi can be a shock to the senses if you have never been to India before, but once you are past the initial mayhem of the capital, there are are some great sights to see.

Start by taking a trip to the Red Fort, one of the nation’s most iconic attractions. The fort dates back to the 17th century when the Mughal dynasty shifted their power base from Agra to Delhi and built this impressive red, sandstone fortification to protect their empire.

Next, call in at the Qutab Minar, a towering minaret that dwarves all around it, before strolling through the beautiful, green Lodhi Gardens to escape the chaos.

Immerse yourself in the ramshackle streets of Old Delhi, and enjoy the start of your Golden Triangle India experience by jumping straight into the loud and bustling bazaars and markets of the capital.

Our top recommended tours of Delhi:

• Private Old and New Delhi Full-Day Combo Tour
• Experience Indian Food: Delhi Food Tour
• Private Walking Tour: South Delhi Heritage including Qutub Minar and Mehrauli Archaeological Park
• Private Delhi Tour: Lotus Temple, Qutub Minar, and Dilli Haat

Agra is well known as the home of the Taj Mahal, but the second stop on the Golden Triangle itinerary doesn’t just revolve around the iconic sight, there is a lot more to Agra than meets the eye.

This is one of the oldest cities in India and was for a long time the capital of the Mughal Empire that ruled much of the north. Start your first day in Agra by visiting the Taj Mahal (read our guide for insider tips! Plan the Perfect Taj Mahal Visit in 7 Steps ).

Beat the crowds and get here early, because this opulent mausoleum is a reason in itself to travel to India. When it begins to get busier, head across the river to the gardens on the opposite bank.

Here you have one of the best views of the Taj Mahal, without any of the crowds.

Call in at the sprawling Agra Fort, explore more tombs, mausoleums and mosques and take a quick trip down the road to the ruined ancient capital of Fatehpur Sikri, to see the abandoned vestiges of a fallen empire.

Plan you trip to Agra:  9 Places to Visit in Agra Besides the Taj Mahal

Our top recommended tours of Agra:

• Viator Exclusive: Private Taj Mahal & Agra Fort Tour, Dine with a View
• Agra Day Tour: Sunrise and Sunset of Taj Mahal
• Sunrise Taj Mahal Agra Private City Tour
• Private Agra City Tour with Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri

Jaipur is the third traditional component of the Golden Triangle. This is the capital of the state of Rajasthan and this historic city is known more colloquially by locals and travelers alike as the Pink City, because of the vibrant and colorful palaces, forts and buildings that are found here.

Jaipur is where the desert really begins and the endless, dusty, yet strangely enthralling landscapes you will see on your journey in from Agra are worth the journey in itself.

The city itself is known for its beautiful architecture, and the first place to visit when arriving in Jaipur is the dramatic Amer Fort. This castle stands atop the most prominent hill in the region, commanding views for mile after mile over both the city and the desert.

The Jal Mahal, a wonderful palace built on the lake seems to float effortlessly, and if you can pay this beautiful place a visit in the evening when the lights are lit up brilliantly.

Jaipur is a city of palaces, and you can next move onto the City Palace, a huge complex of lavish rooms and halls that truly must be seen to be believed. Plan your trip to Jaipur:  15 Cool Things to Do in Jaipur

Our top recommended tours of Jaipur:

• Private Full-Day Tour of Jaipur with Guide
• Full-Day Jaipur Tour including Amber Fort and City Palace with Lunch
• Night Tour of Jaipur City Monuments and Streets
• Small-Group Half-Day Food and Walking Tour of Jaipur

Detours on the Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle opens up the opportunity for you to experience much, much more of northern Indian while you are in the region, provided you have the time of course.

Rajasthan is an endless desert full of surprisingly beautiful city’s. From Jaipur, instead of returning directly to Delhi, you can explore the dusty landscapes and rich oasis.

Travel to Pushkar , one of India’s holiest Hindu cities to see culture and religion in action.

Head further into the desert to visit Jodhpur, the Blue City , or carry on further north to the border with Pakistan, to see the Golden Temple of Amritsar in the state of Punjab and to learn more about Sikhism and the true diversity of the vast land of India.

Accommodation and Food Along the Golden Triangle

There will be a range of accommodation options suitable for any budget along the Golden Triangle route. Budget backpackers will find exceptionally cheap hotels, there are few hostels in India, as private rooms are great value.

However, it’s best to look carefully at reviews and other traveler’s comments before booking somewhere based purely on the price, as low-cost hotels in these touristy areas can be very much a mixed bag.

The best hotels can be sold out in advance, so if you are looking for particular comforts or a particular chain of hotels, book in advance. Midrange and luxury travelers will find excellent value, even in the busiest of destinations in the region.

Tap water should be avoided in the Golden Triangle of India, and when eating street food, it’s best to visit the busier places of course and try to be careful if you are unused to the cuisine, to avoid any unwanted illnesses when you travel.

Read reviews and check prices with our Hotel Search Engine , that gives you the best hotel deals found on the web. Our search engine pulls results from all of the major booking places, including Expedia, Hotels, Booking and more. All the options, all the deals, all in one place and just for you. 

More on India:

• 9 Interesting Things to Do in Udaipur
• 9 Best Places to Visit in Pushkar
• 9 Places to Visit in Agra Besides the Taj Mahal
• 9 Epic Places to Visit in Varanasi
• Jodhpur-Blue City of India Planning Guide
• 15 Cool Things to Do in Jaipur
• Plan the Perfect Taj Mahal Visit in 7 Steps
• How to Celebrate Holi in India like a Pro
• 21 India Photos That Will Blow Your Mind
• How To Apply for the India E-Tourist Visa on Arriva l
• Everything You Need to Know About the Pushkar Camel Fair in India

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Travel planning resources, about david stock.

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

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The Golden Triangle Tours & Holidays

Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur - the Golden Triangle of Indian cities that will capture your heart and ignite your imagination. 

While India is full of beauty from its colourful festivals and chaotic bazaars to its fascinating history and religious structures, it’s the ancient cities of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur (the tourist circuit known as the Golden Triangle) that provide the perfect introduction into this country’s culture, spirituality, and cuisine . Embark on an epic journey through Rajasthan as you traverse its unforgettable landscapes, get lost in its vibrant cities, and get up close with its iconic attractions such as the Taj Mahal, Amber Fort, and the Red Gate on our Golden Triangle tours and holidays. 

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The Golden Triangle travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Why is this tourist circuit called the Golden Triangle?

Made up of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, the Golden Triangle is named for the triangular shape made by the locations of the three cities. 

Is it safe to visit the Golden Triangle?

In general, India is a pretty safe country to travel to as long as you keep these things in mind:

• Stick to well-lit and populated areas at night 
• Travel in groups to unfamiliar places
• Always keep an eye on your personal belongings.

The regions/cities visited as part of the Golden Triangle circuit aren't experiencing any political or civil unrest. You shouldn't get into trouble if you heed the above recommendations. 

What kind of transportation is used to travel around the Golden Circle?

As Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur are relatively close.

The primary mode of transportation between the destinations is a private vehicle so you can travel in comfort and get to know your fellow group members along the way.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

7 Day Itinerary for India’s Golden Triangle: New Delhi, Agra & Jaipur

• Last Updated March 17, 2024
• Asia , India

A diverse and beguiling introduction to the sprawling Indian subcontinent, the Golden Triangle’s sights and sounds are possibly the first thing that comes to mind for most travellers when they think of a trip to India. Boasting majestic mosques, bustling bazaars and chaotic street scenes, as well as one of the world’s greatest wonders, this well-trodden tourist trail with leave you astounded at every turn and have you gagging to return to India to explore more.

What is the Golden Triangle?

The ‘Golden Triangle’ consists of 3 of India’s most visited cities: Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, which roughly form a triangle – with around 200km distance between each point – in the north-east of the country. The reason that it is so highly frequented and dubbed ‘golden’ is due to the fact that this tourist trail includes some of the region’s most spectacular and lauded cultural and historical sights.  

In my opinion, the Golden Triangle is the perfect introduction to I ndia . In a country so vast that  organising  a trip can often feel overwhelming, this compact tick-list of highlights taking in the nation’s capital, a sliver of Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan’s capital is a great way to ease yourself in as a first-time visitor.  

ITINERARY OVERVIEW

Chaotic delhi, the majestic taj mahal and the enthralling pink city of jaipur: india's golden triangle in 7 days..

Day 1 & 2:  Delhi Day 3 & 4:  Agra Day 5:  Fatehpur Sikri, Abhaneri Step Well & Jaipur Day 6 & 7:  Jaipur

The first port of call for many visitors to India, whether as a starting point for a trip through the Golden Triangle or as a base for exploring Northern India. Although many of these people choose not to stay for very long, I think that  Delhi  is definitely worth at least a few days of your time.

This city of 19 million people is a fascinating place. Not only is it the political and administrative capital of the county, but it is also a melting pot of cultures, ethnicities, and religions. It really is a city of contrasts. In the south, wide tree-lined avenues are surrounded by colonial mansions and expansive gardens dotted with vast monuments and ancient tombs. As you move towards the chaos of Old Delhi, you find claustrophobic, narrow streets overflowing with people and traffic. Think colourful spice markets, orange marigolds scattered across the pavement as a woman threads them into fragrant necklaces, bangle shops sparkling and shining in every colour imaginable and people dishing out delicious street food. Behind the dishevelled 20th-century apartment blocks covered in reams of tangled telephone wires and drying laundry, are the remains of extravagant architecture. Look a little harder and you will find yourself wandering among the central courtyards of gorgeous Havelis or stumbling upon centuries-old temples hidden away on cramped backstreets. Every corner of the city offers up new surprises and there are plenty of museums, monuments and sights to keep you sated for a few busy days.

Arriving in Delhi

Most visitors to Delhi will likely land at Indira Gandhi International Airport. The Delhi Metro runs an airport express line every 15 minutes between the hours of 5.15am and 11.40pm which takes around 20 minutes to reach New Delhi Train Station (₹60). Alternatively, shuttle buses run from outside Terminal 3 to Kashmiri gate every 10 minutes.

If, like me, you arrive too late to catch public transport, there are pre-paid taxi counters in front of Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. It will cost ₹350 to reach central Delhi or ₹450 to get to the southern suburbs. Payment is made at the counter in exchange for a voucher before you get into your taxi. some travellers report taxi drivers trying to scam passengers by taking them to the wrong hotel or refusing to go to the intended destination so ensure that you don’t give up your voucher before reaching your actual hotel.

Where to Stay in Delhi

Deciding where to stay in a city the size of Delhi can be a mind-boggling task. Not only are there a huge number of hotel options, ranging from budget-friendly fleapits to lavish five-star palaces, it can also be difficult to decide which are of the city to bed down in.

Many of the city’s hostels are located in Paharganj, the noisy and bustling backpacker hub close to the city’s railway station. However, in my opinion, it is an area that’s best avoided. Alternatively, the area around Connaught Place is near to a vast majority of the tourist sights and is much quieter with a higher standard of accommodation.

During my stay in Delhi, I stayed in the south of the city. Not only is it a little more convenient for getting an Uber to/and from the airport, but you’re also much more likely to catch a good night’s sleep without the fear of being kept awake by the constant honking of car horns. While it may take longer for you to reach the sights of Central and Old Delhi, I think that the trade-off is worth it.

Although not particularly fancy,  Bed & Chai  is a French-owned guesthouse with a mix of private and dorm rooms and a few quirky design touches. It is located in a relatively quiet neighbourhood and offers a roof terrace and an excellent breakfast.

For all the talk of how chaotic, traffic-clogged and dauntingly crowded Delhi can be, I think that the nation’s capital makes for a great entry point to India. The idea of culture shock to western tourists in often overblown when it comes to Delhi and in fact, this megalopolis is more fascinating and engaging than many guide books would have you believe. Although the city’s chief attraction is the bustling street life of Old Delhi’s markets and bazaars, there are plenty of attractions to keep you busy for a week or more; 17th century mosques; sprawling manicured gardens filled with ancient tombs; the boulevards and monuments of British-built New Delhi; and a youthful café and creative scene to rival any of the world’s other major destinations. I have only accounted for 2 days in this Delhi itinerary so it may seem a little rushed. Ideally, this could be spread over 2 and a half or 3 days at a more leisurely pace but I would recommend staying even longer to truly see everything the city has to offer.

Day 1 Itinerary

To counteract any potential culture shock and ease you into your first full day in Delhi, we will avoid central Delhi and explore the city’s south, replacing the crowded alleys and dusty streets for wide, tree lined boulevards surrounded by sprawling colonial mansions and beautiful parks.

Start off at the stunning  Lotus Temple , hopefully arriving early enough to beat the queues at the entrance gate. Designed by Iranian-Canadian architect Fariborz Sahba in 1986 to resemble a lotus flower with 27 white-marble petals, this Bahai house of worship was designed as a place to bring all religions together. People of all faiths are welcome to pray or meditate silently inside according to their own beliefs. Even if you’re not religious, time spent in silence, meditating inside the temple can be a welcome break from the chaos of the city.

From here, hop on a tuk-tuk for the 20 minute ride to  Lodi Colony . If you would rather take public transport, wander from the Lotus Temple to Kalkaji Mandir Metro Statin (around 15 minutes) and take the Violet Line to J.L. Nehru Stadium Metro Station and then walk another 15 minutes. Lodi Colony is one of the most exciting creative outposts in the city with walls covered in art. Back in 2015, the St+art India Foundation, an organization dedicated to making art more accessible, teamed up with the Indian government to allow street artists to use the buildings in this inner-city neighbourhood as enormous canvases. As a result, what was once a rather dull stretch of government housing blocks is now home to over 50 vibrant murals created by local and foreign artists, covering themes ranging from Indian culture and celebrities to social issues.

Exiting the neighbourhood on its northern boundry at Lodhi Road, cross the street and enter  Lodhi Gardens . The 90-acres of sculptured garden and monuments were created at the behest of Lady Willingdon, who had two villages cleared in 1936 to make space for her project. It’s an incredibly popular spot for locals. You will find students lounging on the grass, couples picnicking and even people participating in group yoga sessions. While the gardens are beautiful in themselves – they are home to more than 100 species of trees and 50 species of birds and butterflies – it is the 15th century Mughal monuments (the twin tombs of Bada Gumbad and Sheesh Gumbad, Mohammed Shah’s tomb, and the walled complex of Sikander Lodi’s tomb) that steal the show.

Just a short stroll to the west is  Safdarjung Tomb , an impressive sandstone and marble mausoleum, built in the 18th century by Nawab of Avadh as a grandiose tomb for his father, Safdarjang. Surrounded by palm-lined gardens and long, decorative pools, it is one of the most underrated attractions in the city, meaning that it doesn’t get too crowded.

If you’re feeling hungry, swing by one of the many restaurants and cafes in  Khan Market  by taxi on your way to the next stop, otherwise, take an Uber ride eastwards to the far end of Lodhi Road and  Humayun Tomb . This tomb of Mughal Emperor Humayun is a real architectural wonder and one of the most impressive buildings in the whole of Delhi. Predating the Taj Mahal by around 60 years, it is thought to have inspired India’s most famous structure, although, rather than being built entirely from in white, the marble is reserved for the enormous dome and the inlays of the red sandstone arches, all of which follow the strict rules of Islamic geometry. The complex and its perfectly manicured gardens contain a number of other monuments and tombs, but none are quite as impressive as the tomb of Humayun.

Finish the day with one last stop:  India Gate . Constructed in 1921 in order to pay tribute to around 90,000 Indian Army soldiers who died in WWI, the Northwest Frontier operations and the 1919 Anglo-Afghan War, this imposing 42m high structure was modelled on Paris’ Arc de Triomphe. There is a constant buzz in the park and pools surrounding the gate as families picnic on the grass and swim in the water, especially in the early evening. Vendors selling street food, budhdhi ke bal (candyfloss or ‘old lady’s hair’), and toys mill around beneath the arch and surrounding lawns. If you walk along the imperial mall, Rajpath, designed by Edwin Lutyens in the 1920s, you can catch a glimpse of the presidential palace at the other end.

From nearby the Presidential Palace at Central Secretariat Station, you can catch the Yellow line back to the south of the city, hopping off at Metro Station Green Park and hailing an autorickshaw to Haus Khan Village for dinner. Despite originally being a residential neighbourhood,  Hauz Khan Village  has become a creative hub and a popular hangout spot for young delhiites and expats alike. This grid of narrow lanes hugging the permiter of the nearby deer park is home to boutiques, galleries, cafes and a number of great spots to eat. Social or Kunzum Travel Café are perfect places to grab a coffee, while Coast Café is a good place to grab a bite to eat. Although I didn’t visit myself, I’m told that the TLR Café is the place to visit for a nightcap.

Day 2 Itinerary

For your second day in Delhi, you will be exploring the centre of the capital and Old Delhi. I highly recommend being introduced to this area of the city via a walking tour with the  Salaam Baalak Trust . It’s estimated that there are around 100,000 homeless children living on the streets of Delhi. Many of them eke out a life by begging for srcaps, pickpocketing and stealing, while others find themselves joining gangs to survive or using drugs as a way to numb the boredom or stave off hunger.

Luckily, the Salaam Baalak Trust offers them a lifeline. The SBT is a charitable organisation that aims to take in street kids in order to give them an education and a second chance at life, as well as training some children to become tour guides in the city, aiming to improve their language and communication skills. During their 2 hour long tours, former street children show the life of the city through an orphans eyes and tell you their own experiences of Delhi that are far removed from the usual tourist attractions, leading you around the old walled city of Delhi, down hidden alleys, and up on to the city’s rooftops. The tour costs just Rs. 400 per person and all funds raised are used to continue the Salaam Baalak Trust’s program of educating children.

Next, hop on an autorickshaw towards  Gurudwara Bangla Sahib Temple . This Sikh house of worship is the most prominent Sikh temple in Delhi. First built as a small shrine in 1783 to  honour  the eighth Sikh Guru, Guru Har Krishan, the gurdwara stands on the site where he was thought to have performed a small miracle. Guru Hari Krishan used to distribute sanctified water to the sick, believing it had a miraculous healing effect on their mind, body, and soul, and people still treat the contents of Gurudwara Bangla Sahib’s pools as holy water. At this Sikh Temple, like all others, everyone is welcome, regardless of your denomination. The Gurudwara Bangla Sahib even has a  visitors  center where you can learn more about the cornerstones of the Sikh faith:  Sewa  (service to community and God) and Simran (remembrance of God) as well as the ten Sikh gurus and the five Ks, items that Sikhs have on them at all times.  

Read More :  Gurudwara Bangla Sahib Temple – A Tranquil Haven in Delhi

Catching the Metro from Patel Chowk and alighting at  Chandni Chowk , you will now be in the heart of Old Delhi. Head south from the station towards Chandni Chowk road, turning right when you reach it. This is one of the area’s busiest thoroughfares and has existed since 1653. The street is built up of layers and layers of history, and traversing it is like peeling an onion. Behind the dishevelled 20th-century apartment blocks covered in reams of tangled telephone wires and drying laundry, are crumbling colonial mansions. Look a little harder and you will find yourself wandering among the central courtyards of gorgeous havelis or stumbling upon centuries-old temples hidden away on cramped backstreets.

At the far end you will find yourself at Khari Baoli Market.  Khari Baoli  is home to Asia’s largest spice market and the Gadodia Market building is the epicentre where men sit in tiny, dimly lit, tiled alcoves with all manner of spices and ruby red chillies laid out in front of them, spilling from the top of open hessian sacks. Some of them bark orders to the labourers that move bags of leaves and spices from stall to stall, heaving them up onto enormous weighing scales. Others huddle in groups, gossiping and playing cards in clouds of cigarette smoke, crumpled roll-ups clenched between their teeth. Even if you don’t want to purchase spices, it’s an intriguing place to spend an hour or so.

Read More :  A Walk Through Old Delhi

By taking an auto rickshaw from here to the eastern end of Chandni Chowk, you will reach  Jama Masjid . It stands like a proud red island in the centre of Delhi’s pandemonium, a magnificent walled mosque adorned with minarets and gigantic onion domes. The building has been here as long as Old Delhi itself, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1644. It’s said to have cost over 1 million rupees and remains India’s largest mosque. At capacity, it can hold 25,000 people. Although the mosques vast courtyard is worth visiting to see the buildings elegant domes and archways, you can pay an extra Rs.100 to climb the minaret and get a fantastic view of Old Delhi from above. If you have time, finish the afternoon with a visit to the  Red Fort , although I don’t consider it an essential stop off.

While you are in Old Delhi, it would be a shame not to sample the area’s famous  street food.  I decided that the best solution was to enlist some local knowledge and take a guided street food tour with  Urban Adventures  on their popular Delhi Street Food Walk .

This is a great way to introduce yourself to the city’s most-loved dishes and during the 3-hour long tour you will explore the streets of Old Delhi and Kamla Nagar market, sampling everything from shawarma and bhelpuri to chaat and kulfi. The tour finishes early evening, allowing you to go for an evening drink in the area around Connaught Place, or grab an early night in preparation for your early train ride to Agra in the morning. Alternative food tours can be found  here  and  here .

Read More :  A Street Food Tour of Delhi with Urban Adventures 

When most people think of  Agra , it’s the Taj Mahal that instantly comes to mind. While it’s true that the grand, marble mausoleum is the city’s star attraction and the one that draws the majority tourists to this corner of Uttar Pradesh, the city does have a lot more to offer those willing to stick around for longer than a day.

Many of the city’s sights are a result of centuries of Agra being India’s centre of power. In 1501, Sikander Lodi built his capital here until when, in 1526, the Mughals defeated the last Lodi sultan and took over his reign. However, most of the city’s most impressive structures were not built until the mid 16th and 17th centuries when successive emperors constructed the fort, the Taj Mahal and all of the major mausoleums.

Getting to Agra from Delhi

The best way to reach Agra from both Delhi and Jaipur is by train. I find that the easiest way to book trains in India is via 12GO which allows you to search routes and book your journey in advance.

Around 20 trains travel between Delhi and Agra each day, most of them leaving from Delhi’s main station and arriving at Agra Cantt. The journey can take anywhere between 2 and 4 hours. If you plan on getting to Agra and back in a day, the Bhopal Shatabdi Express departs New Delhi at 6 am, arriving Agra Cantt at 7.57 pm. The return leg departs Agra Cantt at 8.30 pm, arriving in New Delhi at 10.30 pm.

The fastest train – and the one that I chose to take to Agra – is the Gatimaan Exp, taking only 1 hour 40 minutes. It leaves Delhi at 8.10 am and arrives at 9.50 am. Both these trains are the more expensive options but if you’re willing to have a longer journey, you can catch any of the other trains for around half the price (700-800 Rs).

Check train times and prices between New Delhi and Agra.

Where to Stay in Agra

As you can imagine for one of India’s most popular tourist destinations, Agra has an abundance of accommodation options catering to all manner of budgets. I recommend staying within walking distance of the Taj Mahal in order to get there early for the sunrise opening without having to rely on a tuk-tuk or taxi. I stayed for 3 nights at Zostel, just 10-minutes from the Taj’s East Gate. It is in the perfect location for sightseeing and there is the added bonus of a large, outdoor garden space. To the front of the property is a small cafe/restaurant serving delicious masala chai and a great palak paneer. The ever-popular  GoStops  chain also has a fantastic hostel in Agra, although its private rooms are a little more expensive than Zostel.

If you are looking for something a little more special than a budget hostel,  Oberoi Amarvilas  has one of the best views of the Taj in the city and is the only hotel in Agra that offers uninterrupted views of the monument from each of its 102 rooms. Elsewhere on the East Gate Road, just half a mile from the Taj Mahal,  Hotel Taj Resorts  is a beautiful boutique hotel with a pool and a couple of great on-site restaurants.

Day 3 Itinerary

Arriving by train into Agra Cantt Railway Station from Delhi, hop on a tuk-tuk into the city to drop your luggage at your hostel or hotel. I recommend catching an early morning train, giving yourself a full day to explore what Agra has to offer. Your first stop should be the imposing  Agra Fort . This red sandstone relic of the Mughal era was built along the banks of the Yamuna in 1565 by Emperor Akbar, later embellished with white marble by his grandson, Shah Jahan, to first act as a sprawling military fortress before being transformed into a lavish palace. The fort is enormous – its outer walls have a circumference of 2.5km – so it is best to stay for around 2 or 3 hours to explore the stunning interior structures such as the Shish Mahal (mirror palace), Diwan-e-khaas (hall of private audiences), Moti Masjid (Pearl Mosque) and Nagina Masjid (Gem/Jewel mosque).

After exploring Agra Fort, it’s time for a late lunch and there is no better place to stop off than  Sheroe’s Hangout . Sheroe’s is more than just a cafe. It is a symbol of bravery and a fight against stigma and discrimination. Run by 5 acid attack victims – Rupa, Neetu, Ritu, Geeta and Chanchal – this initiative by the Stop Acid Attacks Campaign gives women that have been disfigured in heinous attacks a chance to recover from the debilitating blows to their self-esteem by integrating and being in public rather than living a life of obscurity. Sheroes is a relaxed and colourful spot, with the walls covered in street art and portraits of acid attack victims. Just make sure to book a table as it is one of Agra’s most popular spots.

Following lunch, it’s time to visit some of Agra’s other historical sights on the other bank of the Yamuna. Unfortunately, there is no easy way to reach the river’s north bank as the nearest crossing is a few kilometres west of the city at the Ambedkar bridge. I would recommend hiring a tuk-tuk and driver for the afternoon to take you to these spots at a cost of anywhere around 150 and 200 rupees for the round trip.

Ask your driver to stop off at the Tomb of  I’timād-ud-Daulah . It has gained the nickname of ‘The Baby Taj’ over the years due to the similarities in stonework and carvings between the two. What many people don’t know is that Itimad-ud-Daulah was actually built before its more famous counterpart and was the first mausoleum to be built from white marble rather than red sandstone. It may not be as grand as the Taj Mahal, but it is still beautiful.

Afterwards, have your driver continue eastwards along the river towards  Mehtab Bagh  (100 rupee entry fee). One of  the most beautiful spots for viewing the Taj Mahal , this long, lush green lawn dotted with flowering bushes was designed to mirror the Taj Mahals own decorative gardens. Legend says that Mughal emperor Shah Jahan long planned an exact copy of the Taj to be built in the spot as a tomb for himself, only made entirely of black marble, however, it was suggested that Shah Jahan was overthrown by his son, Aurangzeb, before it could be built. Hopefully you can time your arrival just before sunset, settling in for a view of the Taj as daylight fades, casting an orangy pink glow on the building’s marble dome. I spent a beautiful evening, sat in complete silence with dozens of other people, gazing in awe at history’s greatest monument to love. The gardens close just after sunset, so hop back on your tuk-tuk and take the 20-minute ride back to central Agra in time for dinner.

As this is India, street food is the order of the day and there is no better place to find this in Agra than  Kinari Bazaar . This crazy labyrinthine network of alleyways and chouks situated behind Jama Masjid is a colourful assault on the senses. Just make sure to take plenty of patience as the crowds and onslaught of sales pitches can be a little overwhelming. After sating yourself with delicious Indian cuisine, make your way back to your hotel catch plenty of sleep as tomorrow is an early start.

Day 4 Itinerary

This morning you will be visiting the attraction that you most likely travelled all the way to Agra to see: The majestic  Taj Mahal . In my opinion, the best time to visit the Taj Mahal is at sunrise when the crowds are smaller and it is still cool enough to comfortably walk around. Check opening times online as this varies throughout the year, but this is normally around 6am. I would advise getting there half an hour before opening to ensure that you are near the front of the queue. Ensure that you buy your ticket (1100 Rupees for non-Indians) before joining the queue. The ticket booth is on your right-hand side as you walk towards the east gate along Taj East Gate Road.

Once you get inside, you will see most of the other tourists gather in front of the main reflective pool, trying to jostle each other for a photograph of the mausoleum. I recommend walking straight past them and heading to the mosque on the west side of the complex. You will possibly be the first there, giving you the opportunity to photograph the Taj with no other people in your shot.

The Taj Mahal was built by Shah Jahan as a memorial for his 3rd wife who died in childbirth in 1631. The emperor was so heartbroken that he began building the Taj Mahal in her honour. The main mausoleum took just 8 years to complete, but it wasn’t until 1653 that the finishing touches were added to the complex as a whole. Because of this, it is often described as the world’s greatest monument to love.

It is easy to spend an entire day gawping at this structure. I recommend spending at least 2 or 3 hours wandering around the complex, viewing the mausoleum from numerous different angles and spending some time pondering its beauty. If you don;t want to queue at the ticket office,  skip-the-line tickets can be bought here .

Following your early start and hours of sightseeing, you are probably hankering for a late breakfast or early lunch. While a quick lunch of street food is easy to come by around the Taj’s entrance gates, I recommend adding to the wow-factor of your day by making your way to Agra’s best hotel, the stunningly opulent  Oberoi Amarvilas , for an elegant and extravagant brunch. If this is a little out of your budget, then head to one of the many rooftop restaurants in the Taj Ganj area of the city. I tried the rooftop of  Hotel Saniya Palace  and the view of the taj mahal was spectacular. The majority of the restaurants around Taj Ganj don’t carry an alcohol licence, however, if you ask nicely, they will soon find you an ice-cold beer. Just be warned, the food probably won’t live up to the view.

Lunch done, you now have the option of leaving Agra for your next destination or sticking around to see a little more of the city. In my opinion, I recommend staying an extra night in Agra for a reason that will become clear soon.

With your free afternoon in the city, you can spend a little time relaxing at your hotel but if you have itchy feet, then pay a visit to the  Taj Nature Walk  (100 rupees entry fee) on the East Gate Road. This lush expanse of parkland, crisscrossed by walking trails, picnic spots and viewpoints, covers 70 acres, stretching from the road all the way towards the banks of the Yamuna. You can expect it to be fairly quiet compared to the rest of Agra if it is a little peace and tranquillity that you’re looking for. I only spotted two other couples walking the trail while I was there. While it is great for twitchers and nature lovers, the real attraction is the various vantage points dotted around the park, allowing to see the Taj Mahal from a unique perspective. It’s possible to spend a whole morning exploring the different paths but I found that an hour was enough time.

Now for the main reason for staying in Agra for an extra evening: to take a boat ride on the Yamuna. I understand that you may already starting to be saturated with views of the Taj Mahal from various outposts in the city, but this is one of the most unique that not many travellers get to experience.

Officially, it’s illegal for tourists to take a boat ride on the Yamuna. However, this doesn’t mean that it’s impossible, you just have to know where to look and who to ask. After all, who would want to miss out on the best view of the Taj Mahal just for the sake of a few rules? Most hostels in and around Agra offer this tour (200-250 Rs per person) but I found that the best way is to do it yourself from Dusshera ghat. To reach Dusshera ghat, head to the Taj Mahal’s east gate from Taj East Gate Road and, as soon as you pass the ticket office, take a right and follow the Taj’s perimeter wall all the way to the waterfront. As boat rides are not advertised, it is best to ask around at the jetty to see if anyone will take you. When I visited, there were a few policemen on the jetty but they didn’t seem to mind me hopping aboard a boat. We paid 100 rupees (around £1.10) each for a 15 – 20 minute ride.

Check out  this blog post  for a detailed account of my sunset boat ride.

Fatehpur Sikri & Jaipur

Just an hour’s drive from Agra is the ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri, the former capital of the Mughal empire. Built in 1569 and 1585 as a way for the emperor to create a new capital and move imperial power away from Agra, he constructed this magnificent sandstone fortress filled with ornate gardens, an impressive fusion of Hindu and Muslim architecture, and a stunning mosque that is famous for the towering Buland Darwaza gate. Unfortunately, Fatehpur Sikri’s prominence didn’t last long and the city was abandoned in 1585 due to the city’s water supply being insufficient for its population and the Mughal Emperor soon returned to Agra.

The easiest way to visit Fatehpur Sikri is on a day trip from Agra. There are multiple agencies in Agra that provide this service, however, it is simple enough to visit on your own via train or bus. Most  car and driver services  between Agra and Jaipur also include the city as a stop off as part of their itinerary.

Getting to Fatehpur Sikri

Fatehpur Sikri is relatively easy to reach from Agra. Regular buses (40 rupees) run from Agra’s bus stand every half an hour or so between the hours of 5.30am and 6.30pm.

Trains also run each day from Agra Fort Station but are not as regular as the buses. If you are travelling back towards Agra, the journey is the same but in the opposite direction, however, if you are travelling onwards to Jaipur, you will have to wave down a Jaipur-bound bus (190 rupees for a 4-and-a-half-hour ride) from the Bypass Crossing Stop. If you ask around, you will easily find a willing local to point you in the right direction.

The city’s bustling streets burst with colour and chaos. Cycle rickshaws weave among clouds of exhaust and soot as they dodge camels, cars and the occasional dawdling elephant. Swarms of motorbikes honk and buzz through the city’s vibrant marketplaces and grand gateways.

However, the present-day metropolis that is modern Jaipur has been built on centuries of history. This is the ‘Land of the Kings’, the realm of maharajas, where majestic forts and opulent palaces are more numerous than anywhere else in India. The splendours of Rajasthan’s past are still here to explore. At the centre of  Jaipur , the elegant City Palace still housing the former royal family, is an island of tranquillity; the marvellous honeycomb facade of the Hawa Mahal looms over a traffic-clogged thoroughfare; and the city’s pink-tinted walls are punctuated with 7 imposing, decorative gates. Look further still and you will find sprawling hilltop fortresses, Escher-like step wells, and temples left to the care of roaming packs of monkeys.

Getting to Jaipur

There are 9 trains leaving for Agra each day, taking 4 and a half hours and costing around ₹185 for 3rd class. The faster 3 and a half hour train will cost you around ₹500.

Check train times and prices between Agra and Jaipur.

Alternatively, you can hire a car and driver to take you from Agra to Jaipur . This can cost anywhere from ₹5000 to ₹8000 depending on which company you use and which attractions you decide to visit along the route. If you plan on visiting Fatehpur Sikri and Chand Baori in Abhaneri en-route to Jaipur, you will need to hire a driver rather than take the train.

Where to Stay in Jaipur

Jaipur isn’t short of high quality, budget guesthouses and hostels. Many of the best properties are concentrated along MI Road or 2km away from the Old City in the peaceful Bani Park area. The ever-reliable  Zostel  chain is one of the best spots in the city for wallet-friendly dorm beds while on the edge of the Old City,  Krishna Palace  is a beautiful, family-run heritage property with a lush garden and roof terrace.

Day 6 Itinerary

Start your first full day in Jaipur by wandering along the traffic-clogged MI road in search of breakfast. Hidden away in a small courtyard is  Indian Coffee House , a Society for Indian Coffee Workers-owned cooperative with two branches in Jaipur.

It doesn’t look like much – It’s dingy inside, with pale green walls and fans running constantly to cool the interior – but this outdated, 70’s decor only adds to the appeal as uniformed waiters, complete with Nehru topi or a Pathan turban on their heads, go from table to table dishing out enormous dosas, crispy pakoras, omlettes and egg dishes that are some of the cheapest you’ll find in the city. The filter coffee isn’t too bad either.

Following a hearty breakfast, you will only be a short walk from some of Jaipur’s main attractions. Of these attractions, the  City Palace  is undoubtedly the star and with good reason. Situated right in the centre of the old city, you enter through the pink outer walls to find a maze-like complex of gardens, courtyards and buildings. The original outer wall was built by Jai Singh but the interior has been added to and enlarged over the years, with different buildings and palaces deriving from different centuries. Although the parts of the palace that you will see for the regular entrance fee are not all that exciting, you will have to pay the eye-watering extra ₹2,500 (around £27.50) for entrance to the palace’s most impressive rooms. I couldn’t justify the expense but for that price, but you will get a personal guide, a cup of chai in a private courtyard, and entrance to the palace gardens.

Afterwards, pay a visit to  Jantar Mantar  (Gangori Bazaar, 200 rupee entry) nearby. Although Jantar Mantar may just resemble a sculpture park filled with enormous, geometric statues, it is actually an observatory built by Jai Singh II in 1728 in order for him to measure the night sky (the name means ‘instruments of calculation’) that was added to the UNESCO world heritage list back in 2010. The complex features the world’s largest sundial.

There is just one more of this area’s trio of attractions to visit and this is the  Hawa Mahal . One of Jaipur’s most iconic and distinctive landmarks, the Hawa Mahal was constructed in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh as a way to allow ladies of the royal household to watch life on the streets below without being seen themselves. The five-storey tall honeycomb hive facade consists of 953 latticework windows for the ladies viewing pleasure. Entry is 200 rupees but if you just want to see the building’s famous façade, I recommend heading across the road and up a stairway to the  Wind View Café  where you can enjoy a coffee and quick lunch on the cafes terrace with an unbeatable view of the palace.

To round out your first day in Jaipur, take a self-guided walking tour around the old  Pink City  and its bazaars, starting at New Gate and taking a 4km circular stroll clockwise around the city, ending at Ajmer Gate. Head through New Gate and make your way through Bapu Bazaar, stopping to gawp at the colourful textiles and fabrics. Once you hit Sanganeri Gate, take a left and stroll through the jewelers and goldsmiths and Johari Bazaar, passing the majestic Hawa Mahal once again. Eventually you will reach the minarets of Jama Masjid where you can swing a left and wander past Tripolia Bazaar. In this area you can stop inside Maniharon Rasta, the perfect place to pick uup some beautiful bangles, or climb the steps of Iswari Minar Swarga for a, frankly, fairly underwhelming view of the city. Eventually you turn left again to wander past the stoneworkers of Khajane Walon ka Rasta before reaching the city walls beside Indra Bazaar, your end point.

No doubt at after all that walking you will be in need of a few refreshments. Just a 5 minute walk away down MI Road is  Lassiwalla , the city’s most famous and popular lassi establishment that has been dishing out hundreds of creamy drinks each day since it first opened back in 1944. However, if it’s something a little stronger that you’re looking for, I have to recommend a trip to  Bar Palladio . Bar Palladio describes itself as a place that delights in fantasy, a candle-lit wonderland and a floating world. Here you can wander amongst the peacocks and tented pavilions in the bar’s garden or head inside into a cobalt blue dreamland that appears to be modelled on the City Palace’s summer room, although the owner claims that the decor is inspired by the iconic Caffé Florian and Harry’s Bar in Venice. Either way, it really is an enchanting place to come for an early evening cocktail. The bar itself opens at 6 pm but tables fill fast. I recommend arriving at opening or pre-booking.

You can stay for food at Bar Palladio but if you’re on a tighter budget, how about catching a cab or tuk-tuk to  Peacock Rooftop Restaurant . Situated on a rooftop terrace on the Hotel Pearl Palace, this quirky and fun restaurant offers romantic, candlelit, 360 views of Jaipur that reach all the way towards Hathroi fort. The cuisine is varied and inexpensive, although the Rajastani thali is probably the best thing on the menu.

Day 7 Itinerary

Today is going to be another busy day in which you will be heading out of the city centre to see some of the sights on the edge of Jaipur. After breakfast (I’d always recommend starting at Indian Coffee House again) hop in an Uber or taxi towards Amer Fort. Along the way, ask your driver to stop briefly beside Man Sagar Lake so that you can see the  Jal Mahal , or water palace, from afar. When I visited, the palace was undergoing extensive renovations meaning that it cannot be accessed, but it is worth stopping off on the road between Jaipur and Amer to take a look and capture a few photographs before continuing your journey to the fort.

The  Amber Fort  is not only Jaipur’s most popular tourist attraction, it is also one of the most magnificent buildings in all of Rajasthan. Built with pink and yellow sandstone then embellished with white marble floors and walls, it is infinitely photogenic, especially as the sun fades on an evening, giving the whole fortress an orange and pink hue. Amer was the former capital of Jaipur state, with the fort being built in 1592 by Maharaja Man Singh. Subsequent extensions have lead to the fort comprising of an enormous and expansive network of palaces, temples and courtyards that will take the best part of a day to explore fully.

Elephants are used to carry tourists up the winding, hilly, switchbacks from the main road to the fort, but due to the mistreatment and abuse that these animals go through to be trained, as well as the health impact of carrying passengers please do not pay to ride an elephant to the entrance. It is just a short, 10-minute climb to the top or 4WD vehicles are available (40 rupees return for 5 passengers) if you are unable to walk.

If you feel up for a little stroll, you can take the rear exit of the Fort and stroll 10-15 minutes downhill to the town of Amer. Here you will find  Panna Meena Ka Kund , a beautifully refurbished step well. Built in the 16th century as a way of collecting the monsoon rains, the step well was a centre point for the community, used as a water source, bathing pool and for washing clothes. The geometric staircases are a stunning combination of ingenious Indian engineering and architectural beauty.

Read More :  Panna Meena Ka Kund – How to visit Jaipur’s Incredible Step Well

For our next stop you will have to catch a taxi or Uber again.  Nahargarh Fort  stands high above the northern limits of Jaipur, casting an imposing shadow over the city and can be a bit of a pain to reach. One way is to climb the steep, 2km path that winds up towards the fort from Nahargarh Fort Road but I would suggest going by car, although this is a 16km round trip from the city centre. Going direct from Amber Fort of Panna Meena Ka Kund means you can avoid having to travel back into the city just to head out again.

The fort was originally named Sudarshangarh, but it became known as Nahargarh, which means ‘abode of tigers’. Local legend says that the fort was named for Nahar Singh, a dead prince whose spirit was thought to be disrupting construction only sated once a temple was built within the grounds. While the labyrinthine corridors and maze of courtyards within the fort itself are impressive, the main attraction is the view of the city from the ramparts.

Catching a taxi back into the city, you should have now worked up quite an appetite so it’s time to head for dinner. If you’re staying within the walls of the Pink City, seek out  Ganesh Restaurant , a purely vegetarian restaurant located atop the city walls. atop the city walls. It’s a little difficult to find but their creamy butter masala is worth the effort. If you’re hotel is further west along the MI Road, then  Handi , a restaurant that has been in business since 1967 serving up a great range of barbecue and tandoori dishes, is a great choice.

With that, your time exploring the Golden Triangle is done. You can either catch a late-night train back to Delhi for your flight home or return to your hotel to rest, catching your train to Delhi the next morning.

IF YOU HAVE MORE TIME IN JAIPUR

Galta ji temple.

Although Galta Ji Temple is situated right on the edge of Jaipur’s city centre, it feels desolate and is incredibly evocative. Squeezed between two cliff faces in a deep valley and accessible by taking a winding, hilltop path, Galta Ji is most commonly known as the ‘Monkey Temple’ as hundreds of macaques and langurs call the crumbling buildings their home, running riot on the temple steps or playing in the sacred tanks.

A hilly, rugged path of steep climbs and switchbacks winds its way from Galta Gate, on the eastern edge of Jaipur, to Galta Ji. I rode by tuk-tuk to the gate from Jaipur’s city centre, and then it took me approximately 25 minutes to follow the clearly marked path and reach the temple. While the pedestrian route may seem like a slog, you are rewarded with hazy views of the bustling city from Surya Mandir, a temple sitting on a ridge 100m above Jaipur.

It’s claimed that the sacred tanks of Galta Ji are ‘many elephants deep’. When I visited, I didn’t see many pilgrims taking the plunge into the temple’s water so I couldn’t judge for myself, instead the pools were full of frolicking macaques. Small bags of peanuts are available to purchase at the entrance, but only do so if you are prepared to be mobbed by macaques. If you would rather keep the monkeys at a distance, it is worth waiting for the temple’s self-proclaimed ‘Monkey Master’ who arrives sporadically with bowls of fruit with which to feed the monkeys.

Alternatively, you can reach Galta Ji by car or Uber. Although the temple is only a few kilometres from the city centre, it is approximately 10km from the City Palace by road. You should be able to visit by tuk-tuk for around 300 rupees, including waiting time. A taxi will be more expensive, charging 500 – 700 rupees.

Read More :  Galta Ji Monkey Temple

Where to Next?

Although many people finish their brief tour of India at this point, heading back to Delhi to catch a flight home, Jaipur is the perfect jumping off point to explore more of Rajasthan.

The land of the kings is home to magnificent fortresses rising from the desert, lavish palaces, camel trains and jungle-dwelling tigers. However, beyond the architectural wonders and maharajas, it is the enthralling mix of culture and festivals that left me transfixed by the region. There are two popular routes from the state’s capital, heading south to Ranthamblore Natinal Park where you can take a safari to search for tigers amongst the forests and rivines, or taking an onward train to Ajmer in order to visit  Pushkar , a small yet enchanting town has the right mix of mysticism, religious fervour, and magnetism that causes backpackers and new age types to linger here for weeks, if not months.

The Best Golden Triangle Tours

Although the Golden Triangle is a well-trodden tourist trail and all the destinations are easily accessible by public transport, package tours are available for people on a tighter schedule or those that don’t want to rely on trains, buses or their own  organisational  skills.   

G Adventures are one of my  favourite  tour companies, focusing on small-group travel with a sustainable and environmentally friendly ethos. Their  8-day Delhi to Delhi  Golden Triangle Tour covers all of the stops mentioned in this guide as well as a number of lesser-visited spots. Alternatively, if time is short, they also offer a  6-day Independent Adventure .  

If group travel isn’t your thing and you are even shorter on time, private tours can be organised in which you will travel by air-conditioned, private car with attraction tickets, hotels, and tours all organised for you. Numerous different tours are  available here .

India Essentials

When travelling, there are certain brands and resources that I always rely on when booking things like flights, accommodation and tours. Here are my recommendations.

Mobile Data and SIM Cards

Prepaid eSIM’s are a great way of accessing affordable data and staying connected while travelling. I use and recommend Airalo.

Booking Accommodation in India

When securing accommodation abroad, I almost always rely on Booking.com as they have everything from rental properties to homestays and luxury hotels.

Most cities in India also have a good range of hostels for the budget traveller and some of the country’s largest chains such as Moustache and Zostel have outposts here. I always use Hostelworld when booking my bed in hostel dorms.

Train Travel in India

Thanks to India’s extensive rail network, the country is best explored by train, however, booking rail tickets in India can be slightly confusing when using local booking services. The cheapest and easiest way of securing tickets is via 12GO, who allow you to search for journeys and book trains easily.

Tours in India

Many of India’s cities are vast, sprawling and chaotic, meaning that they are best seen with the help of a local guide. Whether you are planning an adventurous day trip or a delectable food tour, Get Your Guide and Viator have a huge number of options.

Travel Insurance

Dave McClane

David McClane is a photographer and travel writer based in Leeds, UK. Since first picking up a camera on a yearlong journey through Central and South America in 2014/2015, He has carefully documented his travels through almost 50 countries.

Dhinga Ganwar Festival in Jodhpur

The Best of Rajasthan: A 2-Week Itinerary for the Land of Kings

A Backpacker’s Guide to Delhi, India

A Backpacker’s Guide to Jaipur, Rajasthan

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Travel Guide for the Golden Triangle in India

Belgapress/Getty Images

The evocative Golden Triangle in India is one of the country's most popular tourist circuits. Comprising Delhi , Agra, and Jaipur , it gets its name from the triangle that these cities form. Roughly located an equal distance of around 125–155 miles from each other in northern India, the cities provide a classic and unforgettable introduction to the country and its charms.

What also makes the Golden Triangle a great tourist circuit is its accessibility. The destinations are well connected by road and Indian Railways "superfast" trains. Hiring a car and driver is a popular and convenient way of getting around if you don't want to take the train.

Going on a tour is also an excellent option if you want all of your travel arrangements taken care of. Both small group tours and private tours are possible.

Delhi , the capital city of India, is where many people start out on their trip. It's divided into two parts—crumbling Old Delhi and the orderly New Delhi—which exist side-by-side but feel as if they're worlds apart. It's worth spending a few days exploring the city's ancient mosques, forts, and monuments left over from the Mughal rulers that once occupied the city. As many of them are set in attractive landscaped gardens, you can relax at the same time!

Agra is the home of India's most famous monument and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal . Hence, it's a must-see destination on anyone's trip to India. Words cannot do the Taj Mahal justice; its incredible detail simply has to be seen to be appreciated. Agra is easily accessible by road or rail from Delhi. The journey takes around three hours.

Rajasthan's desert capital of Jaipur is affectionately called the "Pink City" because of the pink walls and buildings of its Old City . It lures visitors with its stunning remnants of a bygone era. Jaipur's most recognizable attraction is the Hawa Mahal (Wind Palace), which overlooks the main street in the lively Old City. Old forts and palaces, royal residences, and outstanding shopping opportunities ensure there's plenty to see and do in Jaipur. Travel time from Agra and Delhi to Jaipur is four to five hours

17 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Rajasthan

16 Best Tourist Destinations in India

15 Top Tourist Places to Visit in North India

The Ultimate Guide to the Taj Mahal in India

Jaipur Guide: Planning Your Trip

Guide to Luxury Train Tours of India

14 Famous Forts and Palaces in India that You Must See

Jaipur's Amber Fort: The Complete Guide

India Travel: Issues to Know at Top Tourist Places

Fatehpur Sikri in India: The Complete Guide

Guide to the Best Budget Hotels in India

Essential Guide to Hiring a Car and Driver in India

20 Top Things to Do in Diverse India

Trips to Delhi: A Complete Guide

Your Ultimate Trip to India: The Complete Guide

12 Diverse Ways and Places to Celebrate Diwali in India

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Golden Triangle

8 days, delhi to delhi.

• Full itinerary
• Tour details

This short but spicy Indian journey will introduce you to three very different northern cities and the colourful rural life of Rajasthan. From the hectic pace of Delhi with its bustling markets, magnificent monuments, and colonial past, travel by private transport to Agra and the mesmerizing beauty of the Taj Mahal — truly one of the wonders of the world. Discover why Jaipur is called the Pink City and get a taste of rural life at a Dhula village. Photographers and culture lovers won't be disappointed on this classic adventure.

Delhi to Delhi

Special offers, is this tour for me, travel style: classic.

All of the highlights, culture, access, and I-can’t-believe-we-did-that moments, all at a great price.

Service Level: Standard

Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.

Physical Rating: 2 - Light

Light walking and hiking suitable for most fitness levels. Nothing too challenging.

Trip Type: Small Group

Small group experience; Max 18, avg 15

Age requirement: 12+

All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

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Trees planted for this trip: 8

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Ripple Score for this trip: 100

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Itinerary notes.

Want to experience the sights and sounds of Holi? Make sure you’re in India on March 14, 2025 or March 4, 2026 for the nation’s most colourful festival.

Day 1 Delhi

Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included through the G Adventures-supported Women With Wheels project.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Day 2 delhi/āgra.

Enjoy a youth-led walk through the backstreets of Delhi with G Adventures-supported project, City Walk. Observe a different perspective of Delhi while supporting at-risk youth in the community. Later, explore Old Delhi and travel onward to Agra, home of the Taj Mahal.

Set eyes on the sparkling Taj Mahal at sunrise before exploring more of this famous landmark. In the afternoon, visit the I'timad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj) and the Agra Fort.

Day 4 Āgra/Dhula Village

Stop at Fatehpur Sikri, the now-deserted former capital of the Mughals, and a stunningly preserved UNESCO site. Visit the Abhaneri Stepwell and marvel at this uniquely Indian water harvesting system. In the afternoon, travel to Dhula Village and get a closer look at rural life in Rajasthan. Tonight, settle in to your cozy tent then opt to relax by the fire and take in the starry night sky.

Day 5 Dhula Village/Jaipur

Continue to the pink city of Jaipur. Built according to Hindu architectural principles, the city utilizes a unique organization unlike anywhere else in India.

Day 6 Jaipur

Enjoy a visit to the Amber Fort, famous for its mixture of Hindu and Muslim architecture. After, visit the City Palace and have a photo opportunity at Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds).

Day 7 Jaipur/Delhi

If you aren't afraid of heights, opt for a morning hot air balloon ride over Jaipur. Return to Delhi in the afternoon and enjoy free time to explore more of the bustling city.

Day 8 Delhi

Depart at any time.

What's Included

• Your G for Good Moment: Women With Wheels Transfer, Indira Gandhi International Airport
• Your G for Good Moment: City Walk, Delhi
• Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
• Women with Wheels arrival transfer
• Old Delhi walk with stops at the Jama Masjid, Gurduwara, Chandni Chowk, and Connaught Place
• Agra Fort visit
• Taj Mahal visit
• I'timad-ud-daulah (Baby Taj) entrance
• Fatephur Sikri visit
• Village stay
• Jaipur City Palace entrance and guided tours
• Abhaneri stepwell visit
• All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodations

Hotels (6 nts), comfortable tented camp (1 nt).

No meals included Allow USD195-255 for meals not included.

Transportation

Private vehicle, taxis, auto-rickshaw, cycle-rickshaw.

Staff & experts

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.

Available extras  (Add these to your tour when you book)

Jaipur cooking class with a local family - from $25.00.

Join a local family in Jaipur as they welcome you into their home and share their recipes and best-loved dishes with you. Get hands-on with the ingredients and learn how to prepare Pakoda (Pakora), vegetable dishes and Indian breads such as chapatis and puris. Once the hard work is done, get to know your hosts over lunch. Savor the flavours of your creations with the additions of other vegtable dishes, daal and raita, and finish the meal with a sweet treat.

Jaipur Cycle Tour - From $35.00

With its many lanes and organized layout, Jaipur is the perfect location to explore by bicycle. Choosing to cycle through the city on this morning tour will introduce you to sights, sounds and smells that a vehicle just can't match, so grab a helmet and jump on your bike! Navigate the streets of the 'Pink City' with the help of your experienced guide, starting the day with a traditional Indian yoghurt drink of Lassi. Marvel at the architectural wonders as you enter the walled part of the city and stop at the City Palace to visit the Govind Dev temple. Wander through the historical spices and sweets market, stopping for tea and a tasty snack of pakoras before heading towards the majestic Albert Hall Museum where the tour ends. Taxi transfers from the hotel to the starting point and from the finishing point back to the hotel are included in the price of this cycle tour.

My Own Room - From $219.00

If you're travelling solo and would prefer to have your own private room throughout your trip, select this option during the online booking process.

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Travel Guide To the Golden Triangle for the first-time visitors To India.

By Author Christian L.

Posted on Published: October 7, 2021  - Last updated: November 14, 2022

Categories Destinations , Asia , India

If you are traveling to India for the first time, a trip or tour to the country’s “Golden Triangle” is a great place to begin your exploration. With impressive mosques, peaceful temples, and bustling bazaars, it’s an area where you can really immerse yourself in the authentic sights and sounds of India.

But What Exactly is the Golden Triangle? 

India’s Golden Triangle is the area which sits between the cities of Jaipur , New Delhi, and Agra . When read on a map, the three cities form an almost perfect triangle, and if you’re wondering why they call it “golden,” it’s because of the magnitude of historical sights you can visit along the route! 

From the picture-perfect Taj Mahal in Agra to the “Pink City” of Jaipur and the towering Qutb Minar in Delhi, choosing the right place to begin your experience is the first exciting part of your epic Indian adventure!

Getting Around India’s Golden Triangle

If you’re traveling independently, you need to know how to get around the Golden Triangle.

The good news is it is relatively easy to travel from one city in the Golden Triangle to another via public transport. A bus is the cheapest form of transport if you’re on a tight budget. It may be hectic and far from luxurious, but it’s an experience to behold, even if you do it just the once. There are frequent daily buses to and from each city destination, and tickets can be booked in advance online.

Traveling the Golden Triangle in India by train is the preferred method for many adventurers. You can book your tickets online in advance or purchase them at the railway station and simply jump on board to admire India’s beautiful, lush countryside as you roll with ease from city to city.

Another option, especially if you have limited time to explore, is to hire a government-approved taxi to transport you from one city to another. India’s taxi drivers are a book of information and knowledge and will be happy to share stories and their country’s history during your journey.

You can also fly from Delhi to Jaipur in under an hour, and there are daily flights from Delhi to Agra if you are on a whistle-stop tour. Each routes can cost less than 100 euros one way if you book in advance.

When you’ve arrived in the cities, a fun way to reach your attraction of choice is by tuk-tuk. These feisty yet nimble vehicles are a law unto themselves, weaving their way through traffic jams with expert precision. They can be scary for the first-timer, and health and safety don’t feature too highly. However, they are cheap, cheerful and will get you to your destination. 

Top tip: When traveling by tuk-tuk or taxi, always agree on a price beforehand to avoid any unpleasant surprises. 

Booking a Golden Triangle Tour

If you’re a first-timer to India, taking an organized tour is a great idea. Firstly, local guides can share insights regarding the local customs of each city and avoid you getting ripped off when purchasing souvenirs! Secondly, you will travel via private transport, therefore, no waiting around, plus, you have the opportunity to meet other like-minded travelers, which is ideal if you’re traveling solo in India.

Where to Begin Your Golden Triangle Tour

India’s capital city and largest city, New Delhi, is a fine place to begin your tour of the Golden. Triangle. The city is the furthest north on the itinerary and easily served by international and national flights, therefore, easy to reach. 

Delhi, India’s capital, is a full-on experience for the senses. Around every street corner, you’ll discover ancient forts, palaces, minarets, and, when you’re not enveloping yourself in the centuries of history on offer, lively street markets and colourful bazaars to visit.

Top Things To See in Delhi

If you’re beginning your adventure in New Delhi, there are a few highlights in the city you should definitely see. 

New Delhi’s top attraction and revered UNESCO World Heritage Site, Qutab Minar, stands at 240 feet tall. It was built from red sandstone and marble by Qutb-ud-din-Aibak in 1192, and the five stories tower above the city like a beacon of architectural wonderment. 

There are also the museums of the Mughal Red Fort to visit and India Gate – dedicated to soldiers who perished in the Afghan War. The latter is an iconic, historic landmark bearing the names of 13,500 courageous people. If you’re lucky enough to visit at dusk, the stone gate illuminates and fountains dance, bringing endless snapshot opportunities for keen photographers.

If you want to escape the city’s manic hustle and bustle, pop over to East Delhi for a few hours. Akshardham Temple is flanked by lush, emerald gardens, creating a spectacular backdrop against the red sandstone structure. One of the largest Hindu temples in the world, it’s worth spending time admiring the architecture and craftsmanship which went into the historical masterpiece.

Finally, no visit to Delhi would be complete without bartering for goods in Chandni Chowk. One of India’s oldest and liveliest markets, it is comprised of small narrow lanes offering almost every product under the sun. If you can, visit early, stop to snack, and then shop until you drop!

Top Things To See in Agra

If the city of Agra is next on your list, it’s located just over 230 kilometres southeast of New Delhi. Agra can be reached by train in 2-2.5 hours, and a little longer by bus. One of India’s most popular tourist destinations, the city boasts many splendid structures from the Mughal era, one of which is the world-famous Taj Mahal. 

The white marble mausoleum is a unique combination of Mughal and Persian architecture built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his cherished wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It caters to 8 million tourists each year, mostly during daylight hours, but if you can time your trip and arrive at full moon, you can gain a different perspective of one of the world’s Seven Wonders. 

Opposite the Taj Mahal lies Mehtab Bagh, a pretty garden complex is offering the ultimate viewing point. It’s a perfect location for photographers, bringing a wealth of colour into the frame to complement the shimmering white marble of the mausoleum.

Suppose you’re seeking somewhere away from the crowds. Take a day trip to Korai Village, home to the Kalandar tribe of people. This trip will give you an insight into rural life in India. You will also learn what the tribe eat and how they cook their food, see where they live, and you’ll also have an opportunity to purchase a variety of unique arts and crafts hand-made in the village.

Top Things To See in Jaipur

The Ajmer Intercity Special train can transport you from Agra Fort to Jaipur in under 4 hours. Jaipur, or the “Pink City” as it’s fondly known, is so-called because of the pink-hued buildings dotted throughout the centre. 

Jaipur is well-known for its traditional designs and craftwork. Therefore, if you’re leaving it until last on your Golden Triangle itinerary, ensure you leave plenty of room in your backpack or suitcase for souvenirs, artwork, and textiles to take home with you! 

One unmissable highlight of Jaipur is the Amber Fort which also houses the Amber Palace. With several buildings, micro-museums, and gardens by the lake, it has been the setting for many a Bollywood movie. 

City Palace overlooks Jaipur’s main thoroughfare, a crowning jewel in varying shades of pink and ivory, and opposite lies Hawa Mahal, an equally impressive structure decorated with ornate balconies and intricate carvings. Constructed from pink sandstone, Hawa Mahal sits aside a bustling bazaar selling everything from trinkets and hand-crafted jewelry to woven carpets. 

However, the main highlight of Jaipur for many is the Jal Mahal or Water Palace as it’s otherwise known. This breath-taking structure seemingly floats atop Man Sagar Lake. Spectacular by day, even more so by night, the former palace, now a luxury hotel, reflects its myriad colours on the lake like a glistening kaleidoscope.

Avoiding the Dreaded Delhi Belly During Your Golden Triangle Trip!

Many westerners have seen their trip to India take an unfortunate turn when they discover they have “Delhi Belly.” The “upset stomach” bug happens to many tourists who visit India. However, there are a few ways to avoid it. 

Firstly, avoid tap water at all costs, use hand sanitizer and wet wipes and always keep hands clean. Avoid any street food, which isn’t fully cooked, especially things like unpeeled fruit, and remember to begin your Indian culinary adventure by going easy on the spices for your first few days.

When in restaurants, pour beverages directly from the bottle and reject ice cubes in drinks. Also, use bottled water for brushing teeth to be on the safe side. 

If, after taking all of these precautions, you still find that you’ve contracted the dreaded Delhi Belly, it’s unfortunate. Always make sure you have brought relevant medicines from home to eradicate it quickly, so it doesn’t hinder the rest of your trip.

Venturing Outside India’s Golden Triangle

When you’ve exhausted the attractions of the three cities and are desperately seeking a sense of peace and tranquillity to gather your thoughts and reflect on your trip so far, where do you go?

Why not jump on the scenic, narrow-gauge railway and travel north to the Himalayan hill station of Shimla. It’s a long journey, over half a day by train and 8 hours by car but spend a few days here and you’ll see a completely different perspective of India.

Shimla hill station was once the summer capital of the British Raj and still retains some of the splendour and grandeur of the day, plus some pretty incredible vistas of the Himalayan peaks! Visit temples, churches, enjoy a game of cricket, take a picnic in the pine forest or visit the Himalayan Bird Park to see the native species. Another popular trip is to the Golden Temple in Amritsar , while it´s possible to visit Amritsar on a day trip from New Delhi, it is recommended to stay the night there; it´s during sunset and sunrise the place feels really special.

If you have additional time or plan to prolong a stay in Agra, venture to Fatehpur Sikri, an hour away, to see the peaceful Moghul palace complex built in the 16 th century by Emperor Akbar. 

The name Fatehpur Sikri translates to “City of Victory,” and the area is abundant with monuments, temples, and mosques. It’s relatively deserted for the most part and incredibly atmospheric, offering a diverse side-trip from the hectic vibe and tourist hotspots of Agra.  The most popular side trip from both Agra and Jaipur is to the national park of Ranthambore National Park , which is one of the best places to see wild Tigers in India while not directly on the Golden Triangle route, but still a well worth detour to do.

From Jaipur

For those who prefer to be one with nature, Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary is a promising option. Set inside the national park around 2.5 hours northeast of Jaipur, the reserve covers 800 square km with the Northern Aravali Hills as its backdrop.

The sanctuary is home to tigers, leopards, caracals, hyenas, Sambar deer, Pangolin, and over 210 bird species, so don’t forget your camera!

Passing Thru Travel

Exploring India’s Golden Triangle – Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur

Posted: March 25, 2024 | Last updated: March 25, 2024

The Golden Triangle, encompassing Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, offers an incredible journey through India’s rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking architecture. This iconic route explores the heart of India, providing a glimpse into the country’s royal past, colonial history, and architectural wonders. The journey through these three cities is akin to a passage through time, where each destination boasts its unique magic, from ancient forts and palaces to bustling bazaars and serene temples.

1. Delhi – The Capital’s Contrast

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Don Mammoser

Delhi, India’s capital, is where ancient history and modernity blend seamlessly. The city is divided into two parts: Old Delhi, a labyrinth of narrow lanes, age-old mosques, and bustling markets; and New Delhi, the imperial city created by the British Raj, characterized by wide boulevards, stately government buildings, and verdant gardens.

2. Agra – The City of Love

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Krishna.Wu

Agra is synonymous with the Taj Mahal, an eternal symbol of love. This UNESCO World Heritage site, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, attracts millions of visitors annually. Beyond the Taj, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri are profound examples of the Mughal Empire’s architectural brilliance. Agra’s rich craft tradition, including marble inlay work and leather goods, offers unique souvenirs.

3. Jaipur – The Pink City

Image Credit: Shutterstock / AlexAnton

Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan, is famed for its rich Rajput history, stunning forts, and splendid palaces. The city’s plan, based on Indian Vastu Shastra, features the City Palace, Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, and Jantar Mantar, reflecting a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. Jaipur is also a shopper’s paradise, known for its gems, jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts.

4. Exploring the Markets of Delhi

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Delhi’s markets are a vibrant example of India’s diverse culture, offering everything from luxurious silk fabrics to handcrafted artifacts. Chandni Chowk, one of the oldest and busiest markets in Old Delhi, provides a sensory overload with its narrow lanes filled with the scent of spices and colorful textiles. For a more upscale shopping experience, Khan Market offers branded boutiques, excellent bookshops, and some of Delhi’s best cafes and restaurants.

5. Agra’s Mughal Heritage

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While the Taj Mahal is Agra’s crown jewel, the city’s Mughal heritage offers much more to explore. The Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a red sandstone fortress that served as the residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty. It houses several exquisite buildings, such as the Jahangir Palace and the Khas Mahal. Akbar’s Tomb in Sikandra offers a serene and less crowded historical site, showcasing the architectural brilliance of Mughal art and design.

6. Jaipur’s Amer Fort and Hawa Mahal

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Jaipur, the Pink City, is famed for its rich architectural heritage, with the Amer Fort and Hawa Mahal as iconic landmarks. Amer Fort, located on a hilltop, offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the Rajput Maharajas. The fort’s Sheesh Mahal, or Mirror Palace, is a stunning example of artistic craftsmanship. Hawa Mahal, or the Palace of Winds, is known for its unique facade featuring 953 small windows, designed to allow royal ladies to observe street festivals while remaining unseen.

7. Culinary Delights of the Golden Triangle

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The Golden Triangle offers a culinary journey through India’s rich flavors and spices. Delhi’s street food, Agra’s Mughlai cuisine, and Jaipur’s Rajasthani dishes provide a feast for the senses. In Delhi, savor the chaat at Connaught Place or the kebabs in Old Delhi. Agra is famous for its petha, a sweet made from pumpkin, and savory kormas.

8. Art and Craft Workshops

Image Credit: Shutterstock / IndianFaces

Participating in art and craft workshops across the Golden Triangle offers an immersive experience into India’s artistic traditions. Delhi’s craft museums and studios offer workshops in pottery and textile arts. Agra is renowned for its marble inlay work, with workshops allowing visitors to try their hand at this intricate craft. Jaipur’s tie-dye and block printing workshops provide insight into traditional Rajasthani textile designs, offering a hands-on experience in creating your own fabric designs.

9. Exploring the Markets of Jaipur

Jaipur, known as the Pink City, is famous for its historic forts and palaces and its vibrant markets. These bazaars are alive with a riot of colors, offering everything from traditional Rajasthani jewelry and textiles to various handicrafts. The Johari Bazaar is renowned for its exquisite gemstones and jewelry, while the Bapu Bazaar is the go-to place for Rajasthani juttis (traditional leather shoes), scarves, and textiles.

10. Sunrise at the Taj Mahal, Agra

Image Credit: Shutterstock / YURY TARANIK

The Taj Mahal, is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, offers a breathtaking sight not to be missed — the sunrise view. Witnessing the first rays of the sun illuminate the white marble mausoleum is a magical experience. The early morning light bathes the Taj Mahal in a soft, golden hue, highlighting its intricate craftsmanship and majestic beauty. This time of day is perfect for photography and allows for a more serene experience, away from the crowds that gather as the day progresses.

11. Folk Culture of Rajasthan in Jaipur

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sunil lodhwal

Jaipur is not only famous for its historic architecture but also for its rich folk culture. Experiencing a traditional Rajasthani cultural performance is a must-do when visiting Jaipur. These performances include folk music, dance, and puppet shows that tell tales of heroism, love, and the everyday life of Rajasthan’s people. The colorful costumes, lively music, and graceful dance moves of the performers make for an unforgettable evening.

12. The Stepwells of Rajasthan Near Jaipur

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The stepwells of Rajasthan, known as ‘baoris,’ are ancient water storage systems that are architectural marvels in their own right. Near Jaipur, the Chand Baori in Abhaneri is one of the world’s largest and most beautiful stepwells, dating back to the 9th century. This stepwell features 3,500 narrow steps descending 20 meters to the water’s surface, arranged in perfect symmetry.

13. Polo Match in Jaipur

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Mukesh Kumar Jwala

Polo, the sport of kings, has a long and illustrious history in Jaipur, with the city being one of India’s traditional polo centers. Attending a polo match in Jaipur offers a glimpse into the regal sport and the opportunity to witness the thrilling action up close. The experience of watching skilled horsemen in traditional attire competing on the field is exhilarating and offers insight into the aristocratic heritage of Jaipur.

The Bottom Line

Exploring the Golden Triangle offers a journey through the heart of India’s historical grandeur, culinary richness, and vibrant culture. From the architectural wonders of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur to the bustling markets and serene heritage sites, each city presents a unique palette of experiences.

Engaging with the local crafts, savoring the diverse flavors, and immersing yourself in the cultural heritage allows a deeper understanding and appreciation of India’s multifaceted beauty. As you plan your journey, remember to embrace the diversity, seek out authentic experiences, and travel with an open heart and mind.

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The post Exploring India’s Golden Triangle – Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / SasinTipchai.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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India’s Golden Triangle is a tourist circuit that connects the national capitals of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. It’s called the Golden Triangle because of the triangular shape formed by the locations of New Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur on a map. These cities are about 200–250 kilometers apart and form a perfect equilateral triangle. Each city offers a doorway to the rich cultural, historical, and architectural heritage of India.

Delhi: The Historical Heart of India

Delhi, the starting point of the Golden Triangle, is a city where ancient history blends seamlessly with modern life. Home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Delhi’s landmarks include the majestic Red Fort, the historical Qutub Minar, and the expansive Jama Masjid. One can also explore the vibrant Chandni Chowk market, known for its street food, sarees, and intricate jewelry.

Agra: The Iconic Symbol of Love

A mere train ride away from Delhi, Agra is home to the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This ivory-white marble mausoleum, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, stands as a testament to eternal love. Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri are other significant sites that echo the grandeur of the Mughal Empire.

Jaipur: The Pink City

Jaipur, the final vertex of the Golden Triangle, is known for its iconic architectural marvels like the Hawa Mahal, the Amber Fort, and the City Palace. The city’s markets are a paradise for those looking to purchase traditional Rajasthani jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts. Jaipur’s cuisine, with its array of spicy and sweet dishes, reflects the diversity of Rajasthani culture.

Golden Triangle Tour Packages

Tour operators offer a variety of packages for the Golden Triangle, ranging from budget to luxury options. Most tours include transportation, accommodation, and guided visits to the major attractions. Some packages also offer special experiences like elephant rides in Jaipur or a boat ride on the Yamuna River in Agra.

Customizing Your Experience

Travelers can customize their Golden Triangle tour packages based on interests and time constraints. While some may prefer a quick 3-day tour, others might opt for a more leisurely 7-day itinerary that allows for deeper exploration of each city.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Golden Triangle is between October and March when the weather is relatively cool and pleasant. Summers in this part of India can be extremely hot, and the monsoon season, while beautiful, can make travel challenging due to heavy rains.

The Golden Triangle tour is more than just a tourist circuit; it’s a journey through the heart of India’s storied past and vibrant present. It offers a glimpse into the soul of India, with its colorful bazaars, spicy cuisine, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or just someone looking to experience the diversity of India, the Golden Triangle is a journey that promises memories to last a lifetime.

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• Top 9 Places To Visit In Marmaris To Unwind Yourself

Situated in Turkey’s southwestern region, Maris is the centre of attraction for tourists who love sun-kissed photos and golden sands. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures and cultural experiences or simply want to take a break from your 9-5 job, Marmaris provides a perfect combination of beaches, party hubs, and cultural mysteries. Dig into the cultural mystery at Marmaris Castle, walk through the vibrant streets, or party on the wonderful nights of Marmaris; it is all worth it. But knowing about the best places to visit in Marmaris is very important before planning your trip. So, stay tuned till the end.

Top 9 Places To Visit In Marmaris

Here are the top 9 places to see in Marmaris Turkey, perfect for all travellers.

1. Marmaris Castle

Image Credit: Dave.Dunford for Wikipedia

Marmaris Castle is believed to be the oldest castle in Turkey. It was built in 3000 BC when various civilisations of Persians, Romans, and Ottomans emerged. The Marmaris Museum is the only museum in the city with 5000-year-old Art displays, weapons used in civilisations, copper utensils, carpets, weaving machines, and other handicrafts in the Archeology area. The calmness in the landscape of the castle makes it one of the best places to visit in Marmaris. The stories of World War II are reflected in the engravings on the walls. From the glory of history to the castle’s charm, it’s an incredible place to make your tour of Marmaris worth it. Location : Tepe, 30. Sk No:54, 48700 Marmaris/Muğla, Türkiye Best Time to Visit : May to September Entry fee : 6 Euros per person

Must Read: Turkish Delights Unlocked

2. Icmeler And Cleopatra Beach

Image Credit: Mr. M. Canbalaban for Wikimedia Commons

The Icmeler and Cleopatra Islands are the most popular beaches, situated 10 Km and 20 Km respectively from Marmaris, respectively. The shallow seashore, which has a 6 Km range, allows tourists to scuba dive. The golden sand and the winds at the beach are picture-perfect locations with the taste of local flavours. The aesthetics of this place will make you understand why it is one of the best places to visit in Marmaris. The scenic beauties are mostly experienced in the evening with the blend of Orangish sun-sets. You can shop, eat, and enjoy the beaches in the sun, sea, and sand, away from the hustles and bustles of daily life. Location : 0252, Marmaris, Muğla Best Time to Visit : April to October Entry Fee : No entry fee

3. Dalyan River

Image Credit: Fluxe-deluxe for Wikimedia Commons

The Dalyan River is also one of the best places to visit in Marmaris, and it offers an escape from the stressed life and adds peace to all travellers’ minds. The tour is filled with scenic beauties and sites like the City of Kaunos and Lycian Rock Tombs, a series of carved burial chambers dating back to the 4th century BC. A tour to Turkey and not visiting the Cruise of Dalyan River will become a major missed list. This River Cruise is believed to have therapeutic properties for the skin and body. The mud bath is also popular here. Location :: Mugla, Marmaris Town, Turkey Best Time to Visit :: October to February Entry fee for Crusie :: 97 Euros per person

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Turkey With Family

4. Marmaris National Park

Image Credit: Maria Jonker for Wikimedia Commons The national park is one of the top places to see in Marmaris, Turkey. It offers eco-tourism, where you can participate in conservation programs and bird-watching activities. The pine forests that blanket the mountains beautifully and are the habitat of many Birds make visitors encounter colourful birds. From hiking to adventure tours in Marmaris National Park, there lies the history and cultural heritage, with ancient ruins and archaeological sites scattered throughout the area, giving you a touch of Turkish royalty. Location : Armutalan Mahallesi, Atatürk Cd., 48706 Marmaris/Muğla, Türkiye Best Time to Visit : May to September Entry fee : 21.25 Euros for Adults and 16.15 Euros for child

5. Grand Baazar

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The rich collage of Turkish culture and tradition, the Grand Bazaar, is a hub for collecting memories of the best places in Marmaris. As you enter the market, the stalls of Turkish attire and elegant lamps are exclusively sold by talented craftsmen. Visitors can buy decorative pieces for the home as memories or simply wander Turkish culture’s sights and sounds. A visit to the Grand Bazaar, among the best places to visit in Marmaris, Turkey, can be the best part of the Turkey tour. Location : Tepe, Yeniyol Cd. No:26, 48700 Marmaris/Muğla, Türkiye Best Time to Visit : June to September Entry fee : Free entry

Suggested Read: Things Not To Do In Turkey

6. Marmaris Marina

Image Credit: Mstyslav Chernov for Wikimedia Commons

The Marina is the social and entertainment hub for tourists in Marmaris, offering Turkish cuisine, Amazing cocktails, and watching the world go by against the backdrop of the sparkling sea. It is a must-visit destination in Turkey, and you can experience the amazing taste of restaurants and bars. Many leisure activities are available, like water pools, shopping malls, or a peaceful walk around the street. The Marina is one of the best places to visit with friends in Marmaris, Turkey. Location : Adaköy, 48700 Marmaris/Muğla, Türkiye Best Time to Visit : June to September Entry fee : 29 Euros per person

Suggested Read: Best Churches in Turkey

7. Quad Safari

Image Credit: Tshidiso Moetapele for Wikimedia Commons

Quad Safari offers the off-road adventure in Marmaris on rugged landscapes, scenic trails, and the treasures of the Turkish countryside aboard a powerful quad bike. The Quad Safari starts with the safety guidelines and orientation session to teach the riders to operate the bike and ends at base camp. The travellers get a chance to interact with the traditional villagers of Turkey and experience the scenic beauties, mountains, terrains, and thrills on the way. This Safari is one of the best places to visit in Marmaris and is worth visiting at least once. Marmaris is filled with adventurous thoughts, Turkish culture, and traditional dishes. Location : Armutalan Mahallesi, Atatürk Cd., 48706 Marmaris/Muğla, Türkiye Best Time to Visit : June to September Entry fee : 40 Euros per person

8. Nimara Caves

Image Credit: Erdalturkoglu for Wikimedia Commons

The rocks of the Nirmara caves, situated on Paradise Island, depict the stories of Turkish tradition and strong cultural history. These caves are among the top places to visit in Marmaris. Marmaris is an ideal spot for swimming, calming your mind, and underwater photography. The walls are engraved with thousands of cultural stories. Adjacent to Nimara Cave is Cleopatra’s Beach, where travellers can soak up the sun and relax in the ambience of the sunset. It is one of the best places to visit in Marmaris. Location : Adaköy, 48700 Marmaris/Muğla, Türkiye Best Time to Visit : June to September Entry fee : 40-50 Euros per person

9. Turgut Fall

Image Credit: Arif Sipahi for Wikimedia Commons

Turgut Falls is situated in Turgut Village, which is 20 Km away from Marmaris town. With vast greenery and with a height of 50 meters, this fall creates a natural swimming spot with crystal clear and cool water. Apart from enjoying the waterfall, you can also shop from the local vendors that set up stalls there. They sell handmade crafts and traditional snacks. So, you can support the local community and take home a piece of their Marmaris experience when you are there. Once you go there, you’ll understand why this is one of the most gorgeous and peaceful places to see in Marmaris Turkey. Location : Orhaniye, 48700 Marmaris/Muğla, Türkiye Best Time to Visit : June to September Entry fee : Free

Further Read: Best Hotels in Turkey

Marmaris can be the most unforgettable experience of your life. This place carries a lot, from the sunsets soaking in the sands and clear waters of the Mediterranean to the lively bazaars and Archaeological history. And you shouldn’t miss anything at all. Whether you’re looking for an adventure in trekking or water sports or just want to taste exquisite Turkish cuisine, a trip to Turkey is a perfect plan to take you away from the daily stress. And now that you know the best places to visit in Marmaris, what are you waiting for?

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Cover Image Credit: By Marmaris Harbour for Wikipedia Commons.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Marmaris

What is Marmaris best known for?

Marmaris is best known for its stunning coastline, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. From colourful beaches, national parks, caves, and amazing nightlife, everything here is worth experiencing.

How many days in Marmaris are Enough?

A visit of a minimum of three days and a maximum of 7 days is enough to explore all the places in Marmaris and collect lifelong memories.

What can I buy in Marmaris?

You can buy exotic Turkish delights, ceramics, and beautiful lamp sets from the Grand Bazaar in Marmaris.

Is Marmaris a party Place?

Yes, the Marina is a party hub for party lovers. It is full of vibrant nightlife, ambient restaurants, and bars, making it one of the best destinations for a trip with friends.

What is the best month to visit Marmaris?

The best months to visit Marmaris are typically May, June, September, and October, when the weather is warm but not too hot and the crowds are thinner than during peak summer.

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