The Golden Triangle Tour is a top pick for first-time travelers to India and even for returning visitors too! The tour is a gateway to India’s beautiful cultures, heritage, history, and monument exploration. The iconic tour circuit forms a triangle on the map and takes you to India’s three iconic cities – Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur.
The India Golden Triangle tour takes you to the key destinations that are significant to India’s history, heritage, and culture. For instance, Delhi has been a long-held capital of both undivided India and the India we see today. There are numerous places, monuments, and bazaars which date back to the historical times.
Similarly, Agra is home to the wonder of the world – the Taj Mahal which is no less than an architectural marvel. As a fact, the descendants of the artisans who built the Taj Mahal still live in Agra and make beautiful marble inlay products as handicrafts and souvenirs.
Here is a detailed guide on how you can plan your Golden Triangle Tour with ease and create a memorable trip for yourself.
Key Destinations and places to visit on a GT Tour
Delhi:
Delhi is one of the biggest Indian cities and certainly one of the most known cities on the planet. Sometimes forthe good things while sometimes the otherwise. However, the latter doesn’t make it less attractive as it still is one of the top tourist destinations in India.
The administrative capital of India, Delhi since long has been the seat of power for different rulers, invaders, and colonizers. It worked as a canvas to the rulers and colonizers who envisioned trade routes, bazaars, mausoleums, residential forts, verdant gardens, and administrative buildings.
Exploring the city is a treat to the eyes because of its history, heritage, and beautiful monuments that belong to the times of the Delhi Sultanate, the Mughal Empire, and the British Raj. The city has got its earliest mention from the year 1052 and since then the city is one a streak to continually evolve.
Best places to visit in Delhi –
The city of Delhi is divided into two parts – Old Delhi and New Delhi. The parts of Old Delhi are the formations by the rulers and conquerors of the bygone era whereas New Delhi was largely formed by the Britishers in India. Here are the top tourist destinations from both the parts –
- Humayun’s Tomb
- Qutub Minar
- Red Fort
- India Gate
- Rashtrapati Bhawan
- Raj Ghat
- Jama Masjid
- Chandni Chowk
Agra:
Agra is an ancient city which is believed to be thousands of years old as it has its mention in the Hindu epic Mahabharata. However the latest references claim that Agra city was founded in 1501 by Sikandar Lodi, a ruler from Delhi Sultanate.
Once home to the powerful Mughal Empire, the city has three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, one of which is the Taj Mahal; the wonder of the world.
For a good number of years, Agra became the capital of the Mughal Empire (1526-1857). The city was referred to the riverfront garden city because of the gardens built along the river Yamuna. During the rulings of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, the empire reached its zenith in arts, trade, and architectural beauty.
Best places to visit in Agra –
- Taj Mahal
- Agra Fort
- Itimad-Ud-Daulah
- Fatehpur Sikri
Jaipur
Jaipur is a beautiful historic city that’s as admirable as any other historical city in the world. The city has got its own charm! The beautiful royal palaces, the Amer Fort, the intricate design of the Hawa Mahal and the mystical beauty of Jantar Mantar; all forms a beautiful Kaleidoscope of the region’s history, heritage and cultures.
The ‘Pink city of India’ Jaipur was founded by Maharaja Jai Singh II in 1727. It is one of the first planned city of India and was declared a World Heritage Site in 2019.
When it comes to exploring the city, the city has a lot to offer. Surely anybody would fall in love with the monuments in Jaipur which are classic examples of Rajputana, Mughal and Indo-Islamic architecture. Explore the Jaipur Old city that’s all cladded in unique influx shades of Pink.
Best places to visit in Jaipur:
- City Palace
- Hawa Mahal
- Jantar Mantar
- Amer Fort
- Albert Hall Museum
- Nahargarh Fort
- Jai Garh
- Jal Mahal
- Jaipur Old City
What is the best time to visit a Golden Triangle Tour?
Though the tour circuit can be explored at any time of the year, it is wise to plan it when the weather is conducive to travel. India observes some of the harshest summers where the temperature goes upto 50°C (122°F). However, you can avail the best of discount offers in off season.
The months of November – February are the best times to plan a Golden Triangle Tour.
Winters (November – January) –
- Temperature: 6°C – 26° C | 42°F – 78°F
- Clothing: Warm and comfortable
- Extra tip: Apply sunscreen when heading outdoors.
- Festivals & Events: Diwali, Christmas and New Year
Spring (February – March)
- Temperature: 18°C – 30°C | 64.4°F – 86°F
- Clothing: Pack light. Can skip warm clothes
- Festivals & Events: Holi
Summers: (April – July)
- Temperature: 30°C – 46°C | 86°F – 115°F
- Clothing: Wear light-colored comfortable cotton clothes
- Festivals & Events: Gangaur (A widely popular festival in Rajasthan)
Autumn (August-October)
- Temperature: 18°C – 27°C | 64.4°F – 80.6°F
Off-season travel benefits –
Less crowded
The off seasons are certainly better because you get lesser crowds in queues and monuments. Thus, increasing the scope for better Instagram-worthy posts, and convenient travel experiences.
Travel Discounts
You also get better discounts on hotels, flights and trains when you plan your tour in the off-season.
How many days are required for the Golden Triangle Tour?
With Treasure Trip India, you can plan a Golden Triangle Tour at your convenience. Ideally, a tour of 6 days is sufficient. Anything more than that adds more convenience in commuting and stays. Further, you can add activities and events to make your tour a more unique experience for you.
Here is a crisp breakdown of the Golden Triangle Tour options –
3 Days Golden Triangle Tour
- Day 1– Arrival in Delhi and sightseeing. In the evening, transfer to Agra. Overnight stay in Agra
- Day 2 – Agra Sightseeing. Visit the Taj Mahal and Agra. Transfer to Jaipur
- Day 3 – Jaipur sightseeing. Visit Amer Fort, City Palace and Hawa Mahal. Departure to Delhi.
4 Days Golden Triangle Tour
- Day 1 – Arrival and sightseeing in Delhi. Visit Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, India Gate. Overnight stay in Delhi
- Day 2 – Drive to Agra and start Agra sightseeing. Explore Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Overnight stay in Agra.
- Day 3 – Drive to Jaipur and start with sightseeing. Visit City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar. Overnight stay in Jaipur.
- Day 4 – Visit Amer Fort and drive to Delhi.
5 Days Golden Triangle Tour
- Day 1 – Arrival and Sightseeing in Delhi. Check in and relax. Visit Qutub Minar. Overnight stay in Delhi.
- Day 2 – Sightseeing in Delhi. Visit Humayun’s Tomb, Lotus Temple, India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhavan. In the evening, drive to Agra and overnight stay in Agra.
- Day 3 – Agra sightseeing Day. Opt for sunrise Taj Mahal sightseeing experience. Later visit Agra Fort, and Itimad-Ud-Daulah.
- Day 4 – Drive to Jaipur via Fatehpur Sikri (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Visit City palace, Hawa Mahal and Jantar Mantar. Overnight stay in Jaipur.
- Day 5 – Visit the magnificent Amer Fort and drive back to Jaipur.
6 Days Golden Triangle Tour
- Day 1 – Arrival in New Delhi. Checkinto the hotel and relax for the day. You’ll have a car with a driver to explore the nearby places yourself. Overnight stay in Delhi.
- Day 2 – Sightseeing in Delhi. Visit Qutub Minar, Humayun Tomb and Lotus Temple. Drive past India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhawan.
- Day 3 – Drive to Agra and start Agra sightseeing. Visit Agra Fort, local markets and experience the beauty of Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh in the evening.
- Day 4 – Sunrise Taj Mahal Sightseeing. Later, leave for Jaipur and visit Fatehpur Sikri enroute. Overnight stay in Jaipur.
- Day 5 – Start with Jaipur sightseeing. Visit Amer Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal and Jantar Mantar. Visit local markets in the evening. Overnight stay in hotel.
- Day 6 – Departure to Delhi.
7 Days Golden Triangle Tour
- Day 1 – Arrival in Delhi. Check into the hotel and rest for the day.
- Day 2 – Delhi sightseeing. Visit Qutub Minar, Humayun Tomb.
- Day 3 – Drive to Agra and check into the hotel. Rest for the day. Enjoy an evening theatre show at Kalakriti. Overnight stay in Agra
- Day 4 – Sunrise Taj Mahal sightseeing. Visit Agra Fort and Itimad-Ud-Daulah (Baby Taj).
- Day 5 – Drive to Jaipur via Fatehpur Sikri. On Jaipur’s arrival, check into the hotel and rest for the day.
- Day 6 – Start your Jaipur sightseeing with Amer Fort followed by City Palace, Hawa Mahal, and Jantar Mantar. Explore the Old Jaipur heritage and make the most of your time.
- Day 7 – Bid adieu to Jaipur and drive towards Delhi to conclude the tour.
Places you can add to your India Golden Triangle Tour –
Ranthambore
Situated between the wilderness of the jungles of Sawai Madhopur, Ranthambore is a national park and a tiger conservation centre. It is one of the best places in India to sport the Royal Bengal Tigers in their natural habitat. The national park is home to a lot more flora and fauna species. The Ranthambore National Park is a popular tourist place for nature lovers, wildlife and adventure seekers.
Varanasi
The city of Varanasi is said to be one of the oldest inhabitable cities on the planet. It is one of the most sacred Hindu cities and millions of devotees visit the city for pilgrimage. The city is situated on the banks of the river Ganga which is a holy river in Hinduism and devotees offer prayers to the holy river. Further, the Ganga Aarti at the ghats of Varanasi is a popular sight to experience.
Mathura & Vrindavan
The towns of Mathura & Vrindavan are holy cities located near Agra city. Both the cities are holy places of worship and said to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Holi celebration in Mathura & Vrindavan is said to be one of the best and large number of both domestic and foreign travellers visit the city to celebrate this festival of colours.
Must-Try Cuisines
Indian cuisine is a very diversified one. You’ll find that every region has its distinct taste and flavor that is home to one native region only. For example, Dosa is a South Indian dish that’s very prominent in South India but rare in the northernmost states.
In Agra, tangle your taste buds with Bedai Subji for breakfast alongside Lassi or Jalebi Dahi. These are tantalizing delicacies that will ooze up your morning mood for sure.
In Jaipur (Rajasthan), delve into the Rajasthani cuisine and taste dishes like Dal Baati Churma, Pyaz ki Kachodi, and authentic Rajasthani Thali. Rajasthani cuisine is distinct from that of Mughai cuisine found in Agra and Delhi.
Alongside, Chicken Tikka Masala or Butter Chicken paired with Naan or Roti is a fantastic combination. Both dishes are signature dishes from India that are popular around the world.
Best Accommodations
Indian hotels are known for their best hospitality and you can experience it at all places alike. When on a Golden Triangle Tour, you can opt from a range of options – 3 stars, 4 stars, 5 stars, or 5-star luxury.
Here is a list of the premium hotels you can choose on your Golden Triangle Tour –
Delhi –
When planning for a Golden Triangle tour, it is advisable to choose a hotel that is close to the airport. You’ll be able to check in and rest quickly after arrival in Delhi without wasting time in commuting again. Here is a list of some of the premium hotels you can book on the Golden Triangle Tour.
- The Lalit New Delhi
- Hotel Novotel (close to Delhi Airport)
- Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel (close to Delhi Airport)
- The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel
- Taj Palace
Note: These are not sponsored hotels. You can choose as per your choice and convenience. You can also opt for an all-inclusive Golden Triangle Tour Package where you will get a pre-booked hotel booked by Treasure Trip India.
Agra –
Agra city has some of the best hotels in the country and a few of them have also won accolades from International associations. Hotels in Agra are admired for their picturesque Taj Mahal views from rooms, and rooftops. Be it modern, heritage, or boutique; you get all hotel options to choose from.
- Hotel Amar Vilas
- Courtyard by Marriott
- ITC Mughal
- Hotel Grand Imperial
- Jaypee Palace Hotel and Convention Centre
Jaipur –
The city of Jaipur is historic and its cultures, heritage and hospitality reflects in its hotels. The city has beautiful palace hotels, boutique hotels, heritage hotels as well as modern chic hotels.
Here are some of the best hotels in Jaipur –
- Rambagh Palace
- Holiday Inn Jaipur City Centre
- Trident Jaipur
- Jaipur Marriott Hotel
- The Lalit Jaipur
Suggested Content: Guide to India’s Golden Triangle Tour
Is the Golden Triangle Tour worth it?
The Golden Triangle Tour is indeed worth it. It is a path to experience India’s impeccable hospitality, festivals and cultures, monuments and architecture, cuisines and heritage.
The tour typically begins with Delhi, India’s long held capital and then takes you to the city of Magnificent Taj Mahal – Agra. Here you will visit the grand monuments, forts and mausoleums which were once the residence of the Mughal Kingdom.
Then you will visit the classy Jaipur city; which is also known as ‘Pink city of India’. Here you will see the royal residence of the King – City Palace, Amer Fort and more.
The Golden Triangle Tours are very organised and and hassle-free tours where all your accommodation, transportation and sightseeing experience are easily managed; thus giving you a quality India travel experience.
Book a Golden Triangle Tour with us.
Book a Golden Triangle Tour with Treasure Trip India is easy. Simply send a query to [email protected] or WhatsApp us at +91 9557583831.
