A Guide to the Golden Triangle in India

If you are thinking of visiting India, this is a guide to the Golden Triangle in India, the perfect introduction to this diverse country. The Golden Triangle is one of the most traveled, fastest, and popular tourist circuits in the country. Let’s find out what makes the Golden Triangle in India such a popular tourist choice.

What is the Golden Triangle?

The Golden Triangle of India is one of the best ways to see the beautiful country, especially if you are visiting India for the first time. The route is named so because it covers the three cities of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur in the country’s north, which makes an almost equilateral triangle on the map of India.

All the cities are rich in history, culture, traditions, and food, but quite different from each other. Delhi, the capital of India, will offer you a blend of traditions and modernity, along with some delicious Indian cuisine. Agra is where you will be able to visit the iconic Taj Mahal as well as some of the most marvelous Mughal structures. Jaipur is home to many great historical forts, palaces, and some of the best bazaars in India.

Why tour the Golden Triangle?

India is a vast country with differences in geography, culture, food, and lifestyle in every region. It can be overwhelming when it comes to choosing where to go and what places to visit. The Golden Triangle is the perfect trip for people who want to cover more in less time, especially for first-time visitors to India.

This compact trip covers many iconic spots in India, without being too hectic in terms of travel or adventure. The three places have a history and culture that is vastly different from one another – you can cover many facets of this country in this short trip.

Plus, if you have time to spare, you can always extend your trip to include more destinations.

If you are a solo traveler, the Golden Triangle is a great choice. The cities of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur are all tourist attractions, which means you will always be surrounded by tourists.

Whether you are looking for a budget trip or a luxurious one, the Golden Triangle fits the bill perfectly. From budget transport and accommodations to the most luxurious transport and stays, you will be spoilt for choice.

A Guide to the Golden Triangle

Here is everything you need to know about the cities that make up the Golden Triangle in India – Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur.

Delhi – The Vibrant Capital of India

Most Golden Triangle tours start from Delhi, since international flights to Delhi are available from almost all the major cities around the world.

The capital of India, Delhi is brimming with history and culture. The colonial, airy designs of New Delhi are a stark contrast to the narrow, bustling lanes of Old Delhi.

Stroll around Rajpath and grab a bite at one of the many restaurants at Connaught Place in New Delhi. Explore the bylanes of Old Delhi and gorge on some delicious local food in Chandni Chowk – there is a reason why Delhi is called a food lover’s paradise. Visit Jama Masjid, a beautiful structure towering the streets of Old Delhi.

Visit India Gate, an iconic national monument, the Rashtrapati Bhawan – the residence of the President of the Country, and Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. Marvel at the Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in South Delhi.

Explore Humayun’s Tomb, the inspiration for the Taj Mahal, and the iconic Red Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Red Fort is named after the red sandstone used to build the walls of the fort. The main attractions here are the Diwan-i-Khas, known as Shah Mahal, Diwan-i-Aam, known as the Hall of Public Audience, and the Rang Mahal, also known as Imtiaz Mahal.

Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi

Agra – Home of the Taj Mahal

What’s a trip to India without a visit to the legendary Taj Mahal? One of the wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal in Agra is situated on the banks of the Yamuna River. It has been a symbol of love for centuries – Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan had this marble monument built to be the final resting place of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Over 7 million visitors come to see this pristine monument every year.

It takes around four hours to travel from Delhi to Agra by road, and even less by train. The Gatimaan Express Train, the fastest train in India, takes just under two hours to reach Agra!

When you actually see the Taj Mahal in person, it is an experience like no other. The backdrop of every quintessential romantic Bollywood movie, the elegance and grandeur of the structure is something you can only experience in person. While a vast majority of people visit the Taj Mahal at dawn to experience the sunrise, Taj Mahal at night by the moonlight is a surreal experience. Only a limited number of people are allowed entry at night for five nights a month during the full moon.

You can go to the Mehtab Bagh across the Yamuna River to get a view of the Taj Mahal from a distance and away from the crowd.

As majestic as the structure is, Agra is more than just Taj Mahal. Visit the I’timad-ud-Daulah, the Baby Taj, or the Sheesh Mahal in the Agra Fort.

You can also explore the deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri, once the capital of the Mughal emperor Akbar. Fatehpur Sikri is a preserved UNESCO site. Built in 1569 to be the capital of the Mughal empire, Fatehpur Sikri was soon abandoned due to political upheaval and a scarcity of water. Mughal Emperor Akbar then moved the capital from Fatehpur Sikri to Lahore in present day Pakistan.

Taj Mahal, Agra

Jaipur – The Pink City

The Pink City of Jaipur showcases Rajasthani architecture in all its glory.

Perhaps the most popular structure in Jaipur is the Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds, a five-storeyed architectural marvel amidst the bustling bazaar. Known as the “city of forts”, Jaipur is also home to Amer Fort, or Amber Fort, whose fort walls are known to be second to the Great Wall of China.

You can also visit the City Palace, where the royal family still resides. A large part of the City Palace is converted into a museum, where you can learn about the ancient Rajput rulers of India.

Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO site, is an astronomical observatory designed by Maharaja Jai Singh II. Some other monuments you must visit in the pink city are Nahargarh Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Jal Mahal, Monkey Temple, and Birla Temple.

If you love shopping or are looking for souvenirs to take home from India, Jaipur is the perfect place. The city is famous for its many bazaars selling traditional handicrafts, jewelry, gemstones, pottery items, textiles like block printing and bandhej, rugs, and carpets.

Hawa Mahal, Jaipur

Got some more time? Extend the Golden Triangle tour!

If you can plan a longer trip, then the Golden Triangle can be extended to include some more places that will show you a few more different facets of Indian culture and heritage.

From Delhi, you can travel to Rishikesh, the yoga capital of the world. This spiritual city at the base of the Himalayas is one of the major pilgrimage centres in North India. You can then travel from Rishikesh to Agra, continuing the Golden Triangle.

Another addition to your Golden Triangle trip could be to fly to Varanasi from Delhi. The spiritual city of Varanasi on the banks of river Ganges is the ultimate pilgrimage spot for Hindus. You will see a completely different side of India in this place. Attend the morning and evening aartis at the Ghats – it is an experience like no other. Visit the Hindu temple of Kashi Vishwanath here, or the many other temples present in this holy city.
From Varanasi, you can fly to Agra and resume the Golden Triangle.

Varanasi

From Agra or Jaipur, you can visit Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan, home to a rich wildlife, large number of tigers, and stunning landscapes. Above the national park is the Ranthambore Fort, a 10th century structure atop the hill.

You can also visit Udaipur, the city of lakes and palaces. Situated on the banks of Lake Pichola, Udaipur is a majestic city where you can explore the lanes and shops, or simply relax with a boat trip across the lake.

You can travel onwards to Pushkar and Jodhpur, where the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort is located. Get a glimpse of rural Rajasthan as you travel across Rajasthan.

How to get around during the golden triangle tour?

The Golden Triangle is very well connected. If you want the most convenient option, you can catch a flight to each city. If you are on a budget, you can travel comfortably by bus.

But the best way to experience the Golden Triangle is by train. You will get a glimpse of the rural Indian landscape as you travel by train through the countryside. If you have a bigger budget, you should definitely experience the luxury trains of India. The Maharajas’ Express has an itinerary that specially covers the Golden Triangle route. So you can travel the Golden Triangle in the lap of luxury.

The Maharajas’ Express

Within the cities, you can take an auto rickshaw (tuk-tuk), the most convenient and inexpensive way to travel. Cab services like Ola and Uber are also available in most places in India. You can also hire a taxi or car for the entire duration of your stay, but make sure you check the car company before booking. At India Someday, we will help you with all the bookings.

Where to stay during the golden triangle tour?

On your tour of the Golden Triangle in India, you will have a range of options to choose from when it comes to accommodations, from hostels to hotels, and airBnBs to luxury villas. There is something for every budget. You can opt for chain hotels if you prefer familiarity and reliable service. If you truly want to immerse yourself in the local culture, homestays are your best option. Stay in traditional homes and witness the daily local life and the Indian hospitality.

For a luxurious cultural experience, there are many historic havelis and palaces that have been converted into hotels and homestays. You can plan a stay at The Oberoi Amarvilas, Taj Rambagh Palace, Samode Palace, or Neemrana Fort Palace.

Neemrana Fort Palace

If you visit the Ranthambore National Park, you can stay in one of the many luxury safari camps around the region. Taj Sawai, or the Oberoi Vanyavilas, are excellent choices which provide you the ultimate luxury amidst the wilderness.

You can also book homestays for accommodation instead of a hotel: it is the perfect way to get a glimpse of the lives of local people in India.

At India Someday, we will take care of booking your accommodations so that you don’t have to.

Best time to visit the Golden Triangle

The best time to visit the Golden Triangle is from October to March, when the temperatures are relatively pleasant. However, it can get freezing cold in Delhi in January and February, while Agra is fogged up in the mornings these two months.

Delhi has a pleasant climate in February, March, October, and November. But these are peak tourist months, which means that it can get really crowded.

October and November are festive months, with Diwali being celebrated in most of India. In March, you can experience Holi, the festival of colors.

Avoid the summer months of May and June, when temperatures can cross 45 degrees celsius. Rajasthan, a desert state, gets especially hot from April. However, this is also the best time for a wildlife safari in Ranthambore. So if you are adding Ranthambore National Park to your itinerary, make sure you are well-protected against the sun. Use sunscreen liberally and stay hydrated.

The monsoon season from July to September doesn’t affect the north as much as the other parts of India, but there is always a possibility of flooding during these months. Plus, Ranthambore National Park is closed during the monsoon.

Tips while visiting the Golden Triangle

• Exercise caution while navigating the bustling streets of India. Keep your belongings and valuables safe.
• Be wary of hawkers or strangers approaching you. You may come across some who can try to scam you into donating money or buying cheap stuff.
• You can hire a tour guide at the different attractions if you want a detailed insight into the history and culture of the place. There are many tour guides fluent in English who can explain the importance of the attractions in detail.
• Dress appropriately, especially while visiting places of cultural and religious importance. Avoid wearing revealing or short clothing at such places.
• Make sure you pack the appropriate clothing according to the season. If you are traveling during summers, carry light clothing and sunscreen. Monsoons call for umbrellas, rain jackets, and appropriate footwear. If you are traveling in winter, carry some warm clothing for the cold nights.
• Always opt for bottled water from brands like Bisleri or Kinley. Do not drink tap water.
• Street food in India is delicious, but make sure you only eat it if it is prepared fresh in front of you. Foreigners in the country, who are not used to the local Indian cuisine, often get the Delhi belly, or travelers’ diarrhea. 
• Avoid traveling alone after dark, especially if you are a female solo traveler.
• Research the Golden Triangle well before planning your trip in order to get the most out of it. At India Someday, we help you plan your trip so that you can focus on enjoying the Golden Triangle tour to the fullest!

So, when are you planning to visit the Golden Triangle? You can tweak the trip based on your requirements. To know about India’s Golden Triangle tour in more detail, contact us and we will plan the perfect Golden Triangle tour in India for you!

FAQs:

Which are some of the best places to see in Delhi?
Along with the Red Fort, you can visit many other places in the city of Delhi, such as Lodhi Gardens, Jama Masjid, and the Lotus Temple.

Which are some of the best places to see in Agra?
One of the most popular monuments in Agra and the world is the Taj Mahal. Along with this, some other famous landmarks in the city of Agra are the Agra Fort, the ancient, old city of Fatehpur Sikri, and the markets in Agra.

Which are some of the best places to see in Jaipur?
The city of Jaipur has a lot of fun things to do apart from visiting Hawa Mahal. You can visit the Albert Hall Museum, Amber Fort, City Palace, and temples in Jaipur.

What is Chandni Chowk in Delhi famous for?
Chandni Chowk is a great place to shop, eat, and explore. If you have got a few hours to spare in Delhi, you should definitely visit this place. The Chandni Chowk market is open on all days except Sundays, national holidays, and important festivals.

Is one week enough time for India’s Golden Triangle Tour?
Yes, you can visit Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur and complete the Golden Triangle Tour in one week. Start your journey with the first day in Delhi. Then head south to Agra and then to Jaipur. End your journey in Jaipur or back in Delhi. The Golden Triangle tour can be a seven day trip, or you can extend it if you have more time.