The Golden Triangle, which links the three largest cities in the northern region of India—Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra—is one of the country's most popular tourist routes. Travelers on a Golden Triangle tour get to experience something new and unique every day because each of these cities has something unique to offer.
Your journey begins in Delhi, a bustling metropolis where ancient history and modernity coexist. Upon arrival, you’ll be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel.
Start the tour with a visit to Qutub Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in 1193, it stands as a symbol of the beginning of Muslim rule in India. The Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and the famous Iron Pillar, known for its rust-resistant composition, are nearby attractions.
Proceed to the beautiful Lotus Temple, known for its flower-like shape. This Bahá'í House of Worship is open to all faiths, and its serene ambiance makes it ideal for quiet reflection.
Visit Humayun’s Tomb, a stunning Mughal garden tomb that inspired the Taj Mahal. This UNESCO-listed site showcases Persian architectural influences and is set amidst beautiful lawns and pathways.
Next, explore India Gate, a 42-meter-high war memorial built to honor Indian soldiers who died in World War I. Drive past Rashtrapati Bhavan (the Presidential Palace) and Parliament House, two examples of British-era architecture that dominate New Delhi.
Visit Raj Ghat, the memorial site of Mahatma Gandhi, where you can pay your respects to the Father of the Nation. Finally, take a rickshaw ride through the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk, the heart of Old Delhi, where you can explore traditional markets and taste local street food before heading back to the hotel.
Day two allows for a more in-depth exploration of both Old and New Delhi, giving you a deeper understanding of the city’s historical and cultural layers.
Begin with a visit to Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Its vast courtyard can accommodate over 25,000 people. Afterward, explore Chandni Chowk further, one of the busiest markets in Old Delhi. Take a rickshaw ride through its narrow lanes, which are packed with shops selling spices, textiles, jewelry, and traditional Indian sweets.
Proceed to Red Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, which served as the main residence of Mughal emperors. The massive fort complex, made from red sandstone, reflects the grandeur of Mughal architecture and houses important historical buildings.
Visit the Lodi Gardens, a peaceful green space dotted with Mughal tombs and monuments, offering a calm break from the hustle and bustle of Delhi. Afterward, head to Connaught Place, one of Delhi’s busiest commercial areas, known for its colonial architecture and vibrant energy. Enjoy shopping or relax at a local café before returning to your hotel for the evening.
On the third day, depart for Agra, home to the world-famous Taj Mahal. The journey takes around 3-4 hours via the Yamuna Expressway, offering a scenic drive through northern India’s countryside.
Upon arrival in Agra, check into your hotel before visiting the Taj Mahal. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, this white marble mausoleum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The monument's intricate craftsmanship, beautiful gardens, and reflecting pools create a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere. Visiting the Taj Mahal at sunrise or sunset provides the best lighting for photography and enhances the beauty of the monument.
After lunch, explore Agra Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This massive red sandstone fort, once the residence of Mughal emperors, contains several palaces, including the Jahangir Palace and Khas Mahal, audience halls, and two mosques. From the fort, you can also enjoy a distant view of the Taj Mahal.
For a peaceful end to the day, visit Mehtab Bagh, a garden located across the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal. It offers a panoramic view of the monument, especially at sunset when the Taj’s white marble glows in the fading light. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay in Agra.
After breakfast, depart for Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. On the way, stop at Fatehpur Sikri, the abandoned Mughal capital, located about 40 km from Agra.
Explore the grand city of Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century, this city was abandoned shortly after its completion due to water shortages. The architectural splendor of the city remains intact, with notable structures like the Buland Darwaza, the world’s tallest gateway, the Panch Mahal, a five-story palace, and the Tomb of Salim Chishti, a revered Sufi saint.
Continue the journey to Jaipur, also known as the Pink City due to the color of its buildings. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax for the rest of the day. In the evening, you can stroll through the local markets, famous for handicrafts, jewelry, textiles, and traditional Rajasthani products.
Jaipur is known for its royal palaces, majestic forts, and vibrant culture. The entire day is dedicated to exploring its rich heritage.
Begin with a visit to the stunning Amber Fort, located on a hill overlooking Maota Lake. This grand fort, built from red sandstone and marble, houses palatial rooms decorated with intricate mirror work, frescoes, and precious stones. The Sheesh Mahal (Hall of Mirrors) is particularly famous for its beauty. Visitors can reach the fort by elephant ride or jeep, offering a royal experience.
Visit the City Palace, a royal residence that combines Mughal and Rajasthani architectural styles. The palace complex includes courtyards, gardens, and museums displaying royal artifacts, weapons, and costumes. Nearby, visit the Jantar Mantar, an 18th-century astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh II, which features large-scale instruments designed to measure time and track celestial bodies.
Next, see the iconic Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), known for its unique honeycomb-like structure with 953 small windows. These windows were designed to allow royal women to observe street processions while remaining hidden from view.
Conclude your tour with a visit to the Albert Hall Museum, a fine example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. The museum showcases a vast collection of artifacts, including paintings, carpets, sculptures, and arms, representing Rajasthan’s cultural heritage.
Afterward, spend your evening shopping in Johari Bazaar or Bapu Bazaar, Jaipur’s famous markets, known for traditional jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts.
After exploring the rich heritage of Jaipur, your 5 Days Golden Triangle Tour concludes. You can either head back to Delhi (a 5-hour drive) for your onward journey or continue your travels to another destination of your choice.
This extended 5-day itinerary offers a deeper immersion into the history, culture, and grandeur of India's most iconic cities, while also providing enough time to relax and savor the beauty of each destination.
