Golden Triangle

India, colourful, diverse and unlike any other place on Earth conjures the best travel experiences. The spellbinding charms of the country extend from the snow covered mountains, sandy beaches, emerald backwaters, lush jungles, historic ruins, extraordinary architecture to many delightful activities. Golden Triangle Tour of India is a wonderful introduction of the country, its history, heritage, culture and incredible charms. Exploring the Golden Triangle is visiting the amazing places of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur with stops at Bharatpur and Ranthambore and extensions to other corners of India.

So, if you have a week to spare or more, then here is the plan to uncover incredible India with a Golden Triangle Tour.

Delhi (Day 1 & Day 2)

The capital city Delhi is historic, cultural and very much the best introduction to India. The start point of the Golden Triangle circuit, the city is a wonderful experience for travellers. Enjoy some sightseeing with stops to savour the delicious street food, get some shopping done and have a hospitable stay. From here you can easily plan your holidays to anywhere in the country.

Proceed to Old Delhi, to explore the majestic Red Fort, a UNESCO inscribed world heritage site. A rickshaw ride through narrow backstreets of the Mughal ruled part of the city. The Jama Masjid is a sight to marvel at. India’s largest mosque, the 17th-century Mughal architecture is worth a photo stop. The delightful flavours and smells of the Parathewali Gali in the narrow lanes.

Next, choose to visit the serene Raj Ghat, a tribute to the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi. Later, head to New Delhi, the planned city built during the British Raj. Pass through the diplomatic quarter, the Indian parliament buildings and the Rajpath to the stately arch India Gate, dedicated to brave soldiers.

The Humayun’s Tomb is next on the day’s plan. The garden tomb of the Mughal Emperor, Humayun dates back to the 16th-century. The UNESCO World Heritage Site and believed to be an inspiration behind the Taj Mahal. Next for sightseeing, had to the UNESCO heritage site of Qutb Archaeological Complex. The brick minaret is one of the world’s tallest and there are many tombs and other specimens of architecture.

In the evening choose to head to the Lotus Temple or the Akshardham temple. Both of these temple complexes are not just places of worship but also incredible architecture and treasures of culture.

The day must end with shopping and a 5-star dinner at Delhi’s finest restaurants. You can plan to do all of these in two days to enjoy it all better.

Agra (Day 3 & Day 4)

The next point of the Golden Triangle Circuit is Agra. Home to one of the iconic buildings in the world, the Taj Mahal, it is a place beyond comparison. Beyond the marvelosu specimens of Mughal architecture it 

Relive the days of glory of Mughals at the grand red-sandstone marvel, Agra Fort, the UNESCO-feted architectural wonder.  The view of the Taj Mahal is an experience that you cherish a lifetime. The white-marble mausoleum has ethereal inscriptions housing two tombs of Shan Jahan and his beloved wife Mumtaz.

The next day, head towards Rajasthan, while a quick visit to another UNESCO-approved heritage site, Fatehpur Sikri. A magnificent capital of the Mughal Empire in the late 16th century and later abandoned because of lack of water. Now, more than four centuries later, most of the city is in ruins, aside from its regal imperial complex. Its red-sandstone architecture is carved into complex motifs that invokes a sense of wonder.

 If you are short on time, then proceed towards Jaipur but if you want to experience India’s rich wildlife, make stops at Bharatpur as well as Sawai Madhopur. Both of these places offer a thrilling view and experience of the blessed wilderness. Bharatpur is home to the blessed Keoladeo National Park, a beautiful bird sanctuary. At the lush Sawai Madhopur lies the Tiger haven of Ranthambore National Park where spotting the majestic beasts and wilderness is an unforgettable experience. 

 Jaipur (Day 5 & day 6)

The Pink City of Jaipur is the last leg of the Golden Triangle circuit. The royal capital of Rajasthan is a rare gem with incredible architecture, activities, food, shopping and a luxury stay. The walled city is one among the UNESCO World Heritage Cities and also a covered creative city with name for folk arts and crafts.

Sightseeing in Jaipur starts with a visit to the royal hillside Amber Fort, overlooking the city of Jaipur. The Fill Forts of Rajasthan feature among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Pay a visit to the magnificent Hawa Mahal, an icon of the city. Next, move to the City Palace, the residence of the ruling family of Jaipur. The magnificent design and layout is worth exploring. Explore the museum and its many treasured artefacts. Next, pay a visit to the UNESCO site, the Jantar Mantar, a fascinating display of architectural astronomy instruments built by the innovative Rajput king Sawai Jai Singh. The view of the Jal Mahal is a must. Stop at the Albert Hall Museum to explore rare artefacts.

Shopping in the vibrant markets of Jaipur deserves a mention. Get your hands of handcrafted jewellery, pottery, vibrant clothes and so much more. Stay at any one of the pretty palaces of Jaipur or the heritage hotels.

The Golden Triangle tour of India has so much to offer to the forts-time travellers as well as the ones visiting again and again. Perfect for honeymoon tour, family vacations as well as a holiday with friends, this prized India tour is definitely a must-visit.

India in brief is the key to quench travelust. For centuries, the vast history and cultural legacy has brought visitors from all over the world. Of the many interesting places and routes, the Golden Triangle is the most popular circuit that covers the three cities of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. In short, this tour covers the cities with the most colourful of history and culture that too in a short span of time. In fact, the Golden Triangle Tours is rightly called the brief introduction of India’s charm. This journey covers breath-taking architectural wonders, forts, palaces, temples, some world heritage sites including the Taj Mahal.

The Golden Triangle Tours in India

The Golden Triangle is the name of the route that is shaped as a triangle with Delhi, Jaipur and Agra as the points. The entire perimeter of the Golden Triangle is almost 720 kilometres. Each of the cities are approximately 4-5 hours by road while there are also options of luxury and comfortable trains in India. Start the tour with arrival in the capital city, Delhi. The metropolis has easy and myriad options of international flights. Also, the best of hotels and other tourist facilities are accessible. Besides, the sights and experiences including the delicious food and shopping are simply the best in India.

Golden Triangle Tour Packages range between 4-7 days where the cities of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur are covered and explored extensively.

Delhi – The City of Cities

Delhi serves as the launch of the itinerary. It is known as the ‘’City of Cities”. Explore layers of history of centuries and eras along with amazing specimens of architecture. The city combines both the old and the new.

Travel Highlights of Delhi

Marvel at the World Heritage Sites Delhi that comprise the Red Fort, Humayun's Tomb, Qutb Comple, along with other fascinating sights. Jama Masjid and Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi, Jantar Mantar, Purana Qila, Birla Temple, Akshardham Temple, Lotus Temple, etc. are some unmissable attractions. Besides, the street food and shopping are equally fun.

Agra – The Mughal City

The second stop of the Golden Triangle is the city of Agra. Almost 250 kilometers from Delhi, to reach by road it takes 4 hrs through Taj Express Highway or Yamuna Expressway. High speed trains- Gatimaan Express, Shatabdi Express, etc. ply on the route allowing a comfortable and brief ride. Known as the ‘City of Taj’ Agra was the erstwhile capital of the Mughal Empire and till date retains the splendor of its time.

Travel Highlights of Agra

The Taj Mahal is one of the most recognized monuments of the world. The white-marble mausoleum is one of the ‘Wonders of the World’ and a World Heritage Site along with the red-sandstone Agra Fort. The Itmad-ud-Daulah too is an impressive beauty to marvel at.

The abandoned Mughal City of Fatehpur Sikri too is among the popular tourist attractions of the city. The World Heritage Site has many treasures in its walled city, each a magnificent spectacle.

Here too, Mughal dishes and sweets tempt you taste buds as does the shopping treasure of marble creations, handcrafted arts, etc.

Jaipur

The last stretch of the Golden triangle tour itinerary, move to the most fascinating cities of the erstwhile Rajputana, the capital city, Jaipur. Almost 240 kilometres from Agra, the last point of the tour is equally interesting. Known as the “Pink City’, the former royal kingdom of Rajputana is home to many splendid forts, palaces and architecture along with pampering hospitality at the lavish heritage hotels. Sightseeing include 16th Century hill Amer Fort, 17th Century City Palace, the honeycomb-designed Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar- the royal observatory granted the status of UNESCO World Heritage Site. The sights of Rajputana please your eyes but it’s the mouth-watering food that satiate your taste buds. Folk performances make the evenings fun while shopping is a riot of colors, handcrafted clothes, jewellery and souvenirs.

Golden Triangle tour packages offer a comprehensive plan to enjoy the alluring charms of India.

India's iconic travel itinerary, the Golden Triangle is a brief experience of rich heritage, colourful culture, hospitality and enriching memories. On a Golden Triangle tour, explore the vibrancy of Delhi, the royal charms of Jaipur and the mystique of Agra along with the finest of cultural bounty of India. And, when is about culture, festivals is an insight that is . After all, they are the foundation of the opulent heritage in the country.

If you too wish to know India a little closely, we’d recommend you travel it by the virtue of Indian festivals. Sounds like a plan? Then, here is a list of festivals that will make your Golden triangle trip a success. Relish every piece of information, who knows when you’ll have your India calling. Happy reading folks!

The Artistic Taj Mahotsav, Agra
 
With the backdrop of exquisite Taj Mahal, Taj Mahotsav is a 10-day gala event that celebrates the life and lifestyle of ancient India. During this festival, hundreds of imminent artisans get the opportunity to carry forward their family heritage. For anyone visiting India for the very first time, a trip to Agra during Taj Mahotsav is a feast for the senses.

Wood/stone carvings of Tamil Nadu, Bamboo/cane work from the North East India, Pashmina from Kashmir, marble and zardozi work from Agra and what not, there is no limit to the art on display here. However, this event is not just about exquisite craft work. In fact, it equally emphasizes on performing arts. In the gist of which, it entertains visitors with various cultural performances. So, if you are a sucker for folk and classical art forms, you’d definitely love every bit of this bonanza.Are you a connoisseur of good food? Then, this festival will be a gourmet delight for you. 

Date: 2nd week of February
Location: Shilpgram.

The International Kite Festival, Jaipur

The clear blue skies of Jaipur are too bejeweled every January to celebrate the International Kite Festival. During this time of the year, thousands of enthusiastic folk take part in the kite flying competition. The craze of it is such, that people from across the country travel miles just to witness this phenomenon. Besides being an enthralling escapade, the Kite Festival is also the perfect place to bond regardless of age, gender and nationality.

Do you know that this festival was strategically planned in order to get the benefits of the winter sun? Yes, that’s a hundred percent true.  It is believed that when the sun moves in Uttarayana, its rays act as medicine for the human body. Celebrated on the occasion of Makar Sankranti, the kite festival is a cultural luxury that only a few get to experience on a cultural trip to India. However, if you are on a Golden triangle trip, you too can enjoy this cultural feast.

Time: February
Location: All Jaipur

The Colourful Holi

Have you ever wanted to paint the world in the colours of the rainbow? If your answer is yes, then, you’ve got a golden opportunity in hand in the form of Holi celebration in India. Although Holi is an auspicious festival celebrated with all hearts across the country, the celebration of it in Jaipur is a little off-beat and unique. Like everything else, Holi in Jaipur is celebrated with all the regal charms. It calls for a two day event, where the community bonds and basks in the glory of religious quintessence.

The first day of Holi celebration in Jaipur invites tourists to become the part of the Hindu folklore. During this time a huge bonfire is set up. Furthermore, people pray around it and celebrate the triumph of good over evil. However, the next day is marked by colours on the streets and people having the best of times. Beside the colour play, there is another aspect of Holi celebration that takes place in the Govind Ji Temple. Here, to celebrate holi with the deities, the devotees play with colours, flowers and even sandalwood.

Time: February- March
Location: Jaipur

Gangaur Festival and Teej Festival, Jaipur

Gangaur and Teej Festivals are Rajasthan’s prized possession. It is the crux of everything we love about the state, from attires to rich customs. Gangaur commences on the day following Holi whereas Teej marks the beginning of monsoon.  Out of which it is Gangaur that continues for 18 days and is very famous among the womenfolk of Rajasthan.

Both of these festivals revolve around love and marriage and venerate Goddess Parvati. During Gangaur, you will notice a procession of women raiding the streets of Jaipur, all decked up in blingy attires. Gangaur and Teej festivals are the apt representation of the Rajasthan. And, if you’d want to bind yourself with the threads of its plush heritage, it’s imperative to add this festival to your bucket list via the Golden triangle trip.

Jaipur Literature Festival

This 3 –day literature carnival invites authors from India and abroad. Literature enthusiasts from all over the world meet at this event to read, discuss, question and answer about the top literary works of the planet.  Moreover, there is even a range of stalls selling everything from food to handicrafts here, which is amazing. If you are a patron of quaint laid back vibes, then an outdoor lounge bar is also available here for relaxing. Furthermore, music performances adorn the evenings here after every literary session.

Time: Late January
Venue: Diggi Palace Hotel, Hawa Mahal and Amer Fort.

Every festival in India is unique. If you have the opportunity to experience any of these festivals on your trip to India, then no one is as lucky as you are. So, make the most of it!

The incredible India is not just one country but a country of million experiences. The land of ancient history, colorful heritage and even more vibrant culture is a traveller’s treasure box. Such is the vastness and diversity of the land that is pretty much impossible to explore and experience it all at one India tour. If India’s best could be put in a nutshell, then it is the brief and carefully-planned Golden Triangle Tour.

In north India, the three cities of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, 200-250 kms apart, become the three points of the Golden Triangle. These cities are home to great empires, fascinating chapters of history, colorful heritage, magnificent architecture including UNESCO World Heritage Sites, bustling bazaars, enriching experiences and more. This is an ultimate experience of India, especially if you have never visited before, this is the ideal start.

The Glorious History & Heritage

Golden Triangle tour’s itinerary comprises of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur and each of these cities are a treasure of glorious history & heritage.

The ‘City of Cities’ Delhi - To start with Delhi, the capital city of India is not one city but a city of eight cities. The oldest city of Delhi, Indraprastha dates back to 3000 years back mentioned in the epic Mahabharata while the name Old Delhi is given to the city of Mughals when they made Delhi their capital and the newest Delhi is planned during the British Raj by the architect Lutyens. Each of these settlements is a testimony of glorious history and heritage.

Of note in Delhi is the impressive architecture and craftsmanship that mark each of the different eras and harmoniously coexist with the city matching pace with the modern times. The UNESCO World heritage sites in Delhi- Red Fort, Qutub Minar Complex and Humayun’s Tomb are must visit. Other impressive attractions are- Jama Masjid and Chandni Chowk, India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Raj Ghat, Lodhi Garden, Lotus Temple, Akshardham Temple, etc.

‘Gem of the Mughal Era’ Agra - Moving on to Agra, the city of Taj; it is a city of Mughal splendor. The former capital of the Mughal Empire, the city is well-known for the beautiful Taj Mahal, a wonder of the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The red-sandstone Agra Fort is another testament of the regal history. Other popular specimens of heritage are Itmad-ul-daulah ‘Baby Taj’, and Akbar’s Tomb. The marvelous Fatehpur Sikri is also a must-visit heritage site, on the outskirts of Agra. Once a glorious Mughal city, the city was abandoned and left in ruin.

‘Pride of the Rajputana’ Jaipur – Last stop of the Golden Triangle, Jaipur is a glorious city of Rajputana. Nicknamed as Pink City, the capital city of Rajasthan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Walled city of Jaipur dates back to the 17th century, where the entire city was built after proper planning and following of Vastu Shastra. Magnificent forts, royal palaces, incredible architecture are specimens of the royal heritage. Amer Fort and Jantar Mantar are inscribed among UNESCO World Heritage sites, while other masterpieces of architecture are Hawa Mahal-the Palace of Winds, the City Palace, Jal Mahal, Albert Hall Museum and more.

Rich culture

Culture is the legacy of the people and the Golden Triangle tour presents the culture of the Rajputs, Mughals and the multi-cultural Delhi. Festivals highlight the colorful culture and if you would like a brief introduction to the festivities the tour circuit offers the ideal opportunity.

Mouthwatering Tastes

Be it Delhi, Agra or Jaipur, each of these cities offers an opportunity to savor mouthwatering tastes. Delhi is well-known both for street food as well as luxury dining. Old Delhi is famous for its mouthwatering parathas, kachoris and other snacks while the top-notch hotels offer a fine dining experience. Agra specialized in Mughali cuisines and especially the sweet ‘petha’. Jaipur presents the ultimate Rajasthani cuisine with a delicious dishes including the ‘dal-bhati-churma’ and ‘laal maas’.

Royal Hospitality

Golden Triangle tours is crafted in a way that it captures the best of India and for that is also capture the experience of the royal hospitality of India. Luxury is a way of life for the guests. Luxury properties, heritage hotels transformed from royal palaces and the international resorts serve guests with a memorable stay. While the lodgings are heavenly, the services are personalized for the guests to feel right at home and enjoy Indian rituals and customs.

Extending your trip

Track tigers in Ranthambhore or spot birds in Bharatpur

The Ranthambhore National Park was once a hunting ground for the maharajas and now protects a growing tiger population. Easy to get to by road, the park is known for incredible tiger sightings as well as other wildlife, including blackbucks and rare leopards. Embark on game drives in the mornings and evenings to increase your chances of seeing a tiger or a group of them.

Bharatpur is the home to Keoladeo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to many colorful species of birds including migratory birds that seek refuge in the winters.

A Royal Rajasthan Tour

The Golden Triangle slots in to a longer tour of Rajasthan that can include the ‘City of Lakes’ Udaipur or the ‘Blue City’ Jodhpur or the ‘Golden City’ Jaisalmer. Each of these royal cities further enhance the thrill of exploring India.

Bask in the holy bliss of Varanasi

The ancient city of Varanasi is the perfect getaway with the holy River Ganga, sacred river Ghats, Ganga Aarti, temples and more.

Off to the beaches

Goa and Kerala offer a refreshing beach experience. Beaches, backwaters, Ayurveda massages, seafood, watersports and leisure time, this puts a very invigorating end to your India tour.

Best time to visit India’s Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle Tour is best suited between the months from October to April. The winter season in India is a pleasant time to go sightseeing, relish the Indian spicy food and have some incredible experiences.

Golden Triangle! The sudden whisper of these words immediately takes us to the royal world of Mughals and Maharajas! This world consists of spectacular forts, magnanimous palaces, the world's best monuments, the majestic minarets and what not! Tourists from across the world have been thronging the Golden Triangle, comprising Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, to get a glance of royal and rich India. 

This Christmas, we too decided to explore the beauty of the Golden Triangle, as it was a long weekend, and friends from different zones of the world had gathered in Delhi. All of us wanted to explore the majestic might of India, and hence we all zeroed on the Golden Triangle.

We started our tour from 'Dilli'. The marvellous attractions of the city left us mesmerized and speechless. The magnanimous and grandeur forts and buildings created unforgettable imprints on our minds. Out of all the monuments we visited, 10 of them left an ever-memorable picture in our minds and here I share these destinations with you to ensure that you never give them a miss.

India Gate: Our head was held high when we all stood up to look at the arch of the India Gate. It stands tall at 42 meters in height. Situated in opposite premises of the Yamuna River, this patriotic monument was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyen. On looking at the names of over 90000 soldiers inscribed on it, a strong patriotic feel went deep into our heart and we bowed our heads as a mark of respect to those who sacrificed their lives for their nation.

Red Fort: The brilliant Mughal architecture in the Red Fort or Lal Quilla left us bedazzled. It seemed as if the entire Mughal era is still alive as we crossed the well-carved corridors of the Fort. Red Fort, no doubt, is a standing testimony to the magnificent power and pomp of the Mughal emperors. 

Lotus Temple: The next building to leave us speechless was the magnificent Lotus Temple. The flower-shaped Bahai temple was a marvel in terms of its design. There were blooming petals and around them were nine pools of water, which were glittering in natural light. They looked spectacular at dusk under floodlights. 

While we were wondering why the architect Furiburz Sabha chose the lotus as the symbol, our guide informed us that Lotus was common to Hinduism, Buddhism, Bahai Temple, Jainism, and Islam. And hence it was chosen as its symbol. 

Qutub Minar: This 73 m-high tower made our neck go stiff, as for a few minutes, we literally were looking up, stunned, to see yet another marvel of the world. This tower is also called as the tower of victory. When Qutubuddin Aibak was crowned the king, he wanted to celebrate the victory of Islam and the fall of the Hindu empire. So he built this tower to establish the supremacy of Islam over the Hindu monarchy. 

With five storeys in its fold, this Minar speaks of history as to how its foundation was laid by Qutubuddin Aibak in 1193 and then it was completed by Illtutmish and then Firoz Shah Tughluq in 1368. While the first three storeys are made up of red stone, the fourth and fifth storeys are of marble and sandstone.

Taj Mahal: The very first sight of the Taj Mahal, the epitome of love and romance in Agra, left us mesmerized and perpetually enthralled. We soon realized that the love behind the construction of this outstanding monument has given life to it and describing its beauty is beyond any scope of words. 

It seemed as if this splendid tomb, which stood in silence, has an unsung saga that remains unspoken till date. Undoubtedly, its pristine white marbles, the exquisite ornamentation, beautiful carving, and picturesque location make it one amongst the seven wonders of the world. And yes, there is another credential to this monument. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site! 

Agra Red Fort: Another Red Fort? This question came up in our minds when our guide took us to this palatial building. However, he specified that this is the 'Agra Red Fort', which again enjoys the tag of UNESCO World Heritage. 

Situated at about 2.5 km northwest of the Taj, the fort contains splendid palaces, both in red sandstone and white marble. There were a series of exquisite structures that left us bedazzled with its eternal beauty. The Sheesh Mahal, The Diwan-I-Khas, the Anguri Bagh, Nagina Masjid, etc were a few royal buildings which had geometrically arranged lush gardens, glass palaces, gem mosque, etc.

Hawa Mahal: A glimpse into Hawa Mahal or Palace of winds in Jaipur bedazzled us with its royal beauty. The delicately honeycombed hive rising to a dizzying five storeys with its exquisite architecture made us wonder how skilled the workers of that era could be.

Amer Palace: A fabulous example of hill architecture, this Palace left us breathless and bedazzled with its rich and royal design. Built by Raja Man Sing in the 16th century, the Fort houses many amazing monuments within, such as the 'Sheesh Mahal', 'Diwan-i-Aam' and 'Sukh Mahal'. The fort is a ten-minute walk uphill and believe me, this trek was worth the million wonders that it offered.

Jal Mahal: As Amer Fort delighted our senses with its majestic glory, it simultaneously made us feel a little tired. Now we were on a lookout for something serene and splendid which could rejuvenate us. And on our way back, we stopped at the beautiful Jal Mahal. This low-rise symmetrical palace appears to float in the centre of Sagar Lake. The tranquil waters gave a soothing feel and we felt afresh again. 

While returning from Jaipur to Delhi, we were mystified thinking about mysteries of the Mughal era, were appalled thinking of the majestic times of Maharajas and were wandering if those days did ever go? The erstwhile era continues to be alive and agile because the legacies they had left have never allowed it to go anywhere! 

Author Bio: Archana Sharma is a freelance writer who is passionate about her profession. Travelling is something that excites her. She has been in the creative field for over 15 years and has been writing for print media and digital media.