The Golden Triangle of India, also known as Delhi-Agra-Jaipur, is one of the most visited routes in the country. If you’re looking for a comprehensive taste of India’s highlights, I recommend exploring the Golden Triangle, which showcases some of the country’s main attractions. In this Golden Triangle India itinerary, you will find the best ways to get around the city, top attractions, and available accommodation options.
What is the Golden Triangle?
Located in North India, the Golden Triangle comprises three cities: Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. They are referred to as the “Golden Triangle” because their locations form a triangle on the map, and they are recognized as significant centers of Indian history and culture, earning them the title of ‘golden’ cities.
The Golden Triangle itinerary is an excellent choice for first time visitors to India, it will allow you to witness the main highlights and immerse yourself in the rich cultural and historical heritage of the country.
How many days do I need in the Golden Triangle?
Traveling the Golden Triangle is one of the best trips to take if you have limited time in India. It can be completed in as little as 5 days (2 days in Jaipur, 1 day in Agra, 2 days in Delhi). However, in my opinion, the ideal duration for the Golden Triangle itinerary is 10 days. If you have more time available, even better, as you can indulge in additional activities or consider adding another destination such as Varanasi or Rajasthan.
How to get around the Golden Triangle?
By bus
The bus is the easiest and cheapest way to get around the Golden Triangle. Buses pass through different routes and are such a beautiful way to experience a part of India. There are daily buses to and from every city, and you can book tickets online.
By train
Trains are also a very effective, and it is the preferred means of transportation. You can get trains from Delhi to Agra, from Agra to Jaipur, and from Jaipur back to Delhi. However, you may need to book train tickets in advance or buy them online through the railways’ official website to prevent dealing with the crowds.
By car/taxi
Another option to move around in India is hiring a private car or taxi. It is more expensive than bus and train, but it gives you the flexibility to make stops along your trip. You can truly customize your own itinerary this way. India drivers are also very friendly and will be happy to share some history and recommendations during your trip.
I chose this mode of transportation for its practicality, comfort, and affordability. Even though it is more expensive than bus and train, it is still quite reasonable. We hired a driver for the entire 10 days, which allowed us to move at our own pace and simplified everything for us.
By flight
India is well-connected by flights, so you can get flights to all the major cities. This is an expensive way to travel, and you may need to take the bus and train once in a while to get to where you’re going.
Designing Your Ideal 10 Days Golden Triangle India Itinerary
Delhi
The first stop in this Golden Triangle itinerary is Delhi, the historical capital city of India. This city has plenty of historical monuments, museums, amusement parks, and street food. It’s best to spend a lot of time here, as the city has a lot to offer. I would say 5 days would allow you to see the best the city has to offer, with Day 1 being the day you arrive and transfer to the hotel and Day 5 for departure.
Delhi can get overwhelming, but it offers so much fun and history. One of the top tips in Delhi is to beware of fake guides. You can reach many of the tourist attractions on your own, or consider taking a guided tour with a reputable company.
Where to stay in Delhi
Delhi is one of the most popular cities in India, so there are many accommodation options, including hostels, hotels, private homes, and B&Bs. Guesthouses and hostels are the cheapest places to stay in Delhi.
I found that staying at a comfortable hotel at the end of the day greatly aided my recovery and provided much-needed relaxation. Opting for a higher-end hotel is also a good choice as the rates are better compared to other major cities around the world.
Best Things to Do in Delhi
Lotus Temple
Lotus Temple is a Baha’i House of Worship built in the shape of an actual lotus flower but in white. It’s open to everyone, especially those looking for serenity and solace during their time in Delhi.
Opening time: Every day from 9 am to 6 pm except Mondays.
Cost: Free entrance
Website: https://bahaihouseofworship.in/
Red Fort
Red Fort is a mind-blowing destination to watch the Light and Sound show that tells the history of the city. The show includes speeches from freedom fighters like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru. This fort was built in 1648 by Shah Jahan, and it showcases beautiful Persian and Mughal architecture. It’s the largest monument in Delhi and attracts thousands of tourists annually.
Opening time: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
Cost: INR 80/adult INR 40/ child
Website: https://www.delhitourism.gov.in
Safdarjung Tomb
Safdarjung Tomb was built in 1754 and is the last garden tomb built in the style of the late Mughal Empire. The tomb is made of marble and sandstone and is surrounded by well-maintained gardens. Safdarjung tomb also boasts pretty lawns, fountains, a well canal, and high carved ceilings with Arabic inscriptions. It is not as crowded or popular as other monuments, but it’s a special place for those who add it to their itinerary.
Opening time: 7 am to 5 pm
Cost: INR 200 for foreign tourists
Website: https://www.delhitourism.gov.in
Humayun Tomb
This is one of the most important monuments in India, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the resting place of Emperor Humayun. Humayun’s Tomb is the first garden tomb in India, with an exceptionally manicured garden all around. This tomb combines Persian and Indian designs and has inspired a lot of architectural structures in the country, including the Taj Mahal.
Opening time: 8 am to 6 pm
Cost: INR 30/ person
Website: https://www.delhitourism.gov
India Gate
One of the best things to add to your India’s Golden Triangle itinerary is a walk around India Gate. It was built in 1931 to commemorate the death of the 82,000 soldiers of India’s army. This site has a sprawling garden, beautiful scenery, and an ‘eternal’ flame. India Gate is so beautiful, and it’s a perfect spot to stroll, sit, and take in stunning views. There are stalls where you can get snacks to munch while taking in the spectacular monument.
The best time to visit is in the evening, specifically from 7pm to 10pm, when the light show takes place and the gate is beautifully illuminated.
Opening time: every day
Cost: Free
Website: https://www.delhitourism.gov.in//india_gate
Agrasen Ki Baoli
This 60-meter-long, 15-meter-wide historical step well is one of the oldest monuments in central Delhi and one of the best places to visit. It was originally built by the legendary king Agrasen and was constructed from uneven stones. This baoli has 103 steps with three levels of chambers and passages. Some people believe Agrasen Ki Baoli is haunted, and one legend says that demons hide in the walls. This stepwell may have a creepy story, but there is no denying it’s a beautiful wonder worth visiting if you’re brave enough.
Opening time: 7 am to 6 pm.
Cost: No entry fee
Qutub Minar
Qutub Minar is a tower of ancient Indian architecture. Standing at a height of 73 meters (240 feet), this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a magnificent example of the Indo-Islamic architectural style. Built in the 12th century, it features unique architectural details with intricate carvings and inscriptions.
Opening time: 7 am to 9 pm.
Cost: ₹ 550 for foreign tourists
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib Temple
This Sikh temple is open to everyone, regardless of faith and religion. Like other temples, it is incredibly tranquil and peaceful. There is a large reservoir of holy water where you can bathe with beautiful fishes. You will also find a community kitchen where you can volunteer to make meals for the congregation. This might be the only time on your Golden Triangle India itinerary that you get to visit a Sikh temple, so I recommend you don’t skip here.
Opening time: Tuesdays: 3:45 am to 11:45 pm
Other Days: 12 am to 11:59 pm
Cost: No entry fee
Jama Masjid
Jama Masjid is the largest mosque in India; it can hold up to 25,000 people. It isn’t just the size of the mosque that amazes people but also the stunning architecture built in 1655. You can climb the minaret to get beautiful views of the stacked rooftops, the twirling kites, and the vultures.
Opening time: 7 am to 6:30 pm every day
Cost: No entry fee. INR300 for photography
Exploring the center of the capital and Old Delhi
If you want to immerse yourself in local culture, I recommend you go on a street tour of Old Delhi. You can enjoy street food, wander through the narrow bazaars, and keep an eye on the colorful Jain havelis built in the 18th century.
Agra
The second stop after Delhi is Agra, the beautiful city that is home to the Taj Mahal, one of the most incredible man-made wonders of the world. Agra was India’s capital under the Mughals and one of the most popular cities on tourists’ itineraries. I recommend you stay at least two days here because the Taj Mahal alone deserves half of your day. Also, try to book your monuments ticket online before you arrive, and beware of people that offer to show you around. Agra from Delhi takes about 3.5 hours by road.
Where to stay in Agra
There is no shortage of hotels, guesthouses, and hostels in this city. Agra has different areas and neighborhoods to stay, but one of the most popular, especially amongst budget travelers, is Taj Ganj.
Best Things to Do in Agra
Agra Fort
Agra Fort used to be the home of emperors but is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site with halls and palaces to tour. This fort is stunning and has a point where you can enjoy the views of the Taj Mahal. Agra Fort also has royal pavilions, courtyards, and mosques you can tour. There is a sound and light show that is held here after every sunset.
Opening time: 6 am to 6 pm
Cost: INR 550 for foreign tourists
Website: https://agra.nic.in/tourist-place/agra-fort/
Tomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah
I’timād-ud-Daulah is the tomb of a Persian nobleman. It features a beautiful display of gardens and architecture in Persian style. I’timād-ud-Daulah is also close to the Yamuna River and serves as a great spot to enjoy the tranquil river views.
Opening time: 6 am to 6 pm
Cost: INR 200 for foreign tourists
Taj Mahal
You’ve probably heard how beautiful the Taj Mahal is, but no description will prepare you for the spellbinding experience from coming face-to-face with it. Emperor Shah Jahan built this awe-inspiring white marble monument in memory of his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The entrance is carved with Quranic verses, and the walls are decorated with beautiful precious and semi-precious stones. While you are here, you can go to Mohabbat The Taj Show to watch the reenactment of the love story of Shah Jahan and his wife.
Being one of the seven wonders of the world, you can expect that the Taj Mahal gets a lot of visitors per day. If you want to avoid the crowds as much as possible, I advise you to arrive half an hour before opening time. This way, you can ensure that you are near the front of the queue.
Opening time: Mondays to Thursdays (30 minutes before sunrise and 30 minutes after sunrise)
Cost: INR 1100 for foreigners
Website: https://www.tajmahal.gov.in/
Best viewing points for the Taj Mahal
Some of the best ways to enjoy the views of the Taj Mahal include going to Agra Fort, taking a stroll through the Mehtab Bagh (the moonlight garden), and taking a Taj Mahal boat ride on the Yamuna River.
Jaipur
Our final spot on the Golden Triangle India Itinerary is Jaipur, a city full of many spectacles, great regional food, and world-class attractions. Jaipur is one of the biggest cities in India, and it has a pink hue that has earned it the title of ‘Pink City.’ To cover the best of what this metropolis has to offer, I recommend you spend at least three days here. The travel time from Agra to Jaipur is about 4.25 hours by road. There is also the option to take a domestic flight from an airport in Agra.
Where to stay in Jaipur
As one of the cities closest to Delhi, Jaipur is home to some of the best hotels, villas, ancient Havelis, palaces, hostels, and Airbnbs. The best areas to find accommodation options for all budgets are The Old City, Raja Park, and Bani Park.
Best Things to Do in Jaipur
Patrika Gate
A magnificent colorful structure that is adorned with Rajasthani motifs, intricate carvings, and stunning artwork that depict the essence of Rajasthan’s traditions and folklore. Its vibrant colors are sure to captivate you! Patrika Gate serves as a beautiful gateway to the Pink City. Be prepared to capture some beautiful photos.
Opening time: 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.
Cost: free for everyone
Website: https://patrikagate.patrika.com/
City Palace
City Palace is located in the center of Jaipur and has many beautiful gardens, courtyards, pavilions, temples, and buildings you can tour. It is the home of Jaipur’s royal family, and the buildings are a fusion of Rajput, Mughal, and European architecture. Only a section of the palace is open to tourists, and this includes the Mubarak Mahal Museum, where you will find royal artifacts and clothing.
Opening time: 9:30 am to 5 pm
Cost: INR 900 for foreigners
Website: https://www.tourism.rajasthan.gov.in/city-palace.html
Hawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Breeze, was built as an extension of the City Palace of Jaipur. This red and pink building features more than 900 windows that let in enough breeze and views. Hawa Mahal was designed for royal ladies to watch the festivals and outside life without going on the street. The building has a shape resembling Lord Krishna’s crown and gives off a golden glow if you visit early morning.
Opening time: 9 am to 4:30 pm
Cost: INR 200 for foreigners
Website: https://www.hawa-mahal.com/
Walking tour around the old Pink City and its bazaars
Pink City has many masterpieces, architecture, and layout of bazaars. You should consider walking around the city to discover many of the delights and attraction sites. Also, you can visit the Jaipur bazaars to get all kinds of souvenirs, including clothes and jewelry, and relish local flavors at the stalls.
Amer Fort
This world heritage site provides incredible views of the city and features Indian-Muslim architecture that has made it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are many beautiful palaces, gardens, and halls you can explore in this fort. Legend says that invaders found the Amer Fort so beautiful that they couldn’t dare to destroy it during the wartimes. If you are here, you should consider seeing the Light and Sound show.
Opening time: 8 am to 5:30 pm
Cost: INR 150/ Foreigner
Website: https://www.tourism.rajasthan.gov.in/amber-palace.html
Panna Meena Ka Kund
Panna Meena Ka Kund is an ancient community center with octagonal gazebos, criss-cross stairs, and a well-preserved step well. This monument is full of water all year round and used to be a water source for people in the past. Panna Meena ka Kund is an architectural delight and sees thousands of visitors every year.
Opening time:12 am to 12 pm.
Cost: No entry fee.
Nahargarh Fort
Nahargarh Fort, aka tiger fort, was part of the defense wall around the cities of the old town. One of the most incredible features of this palace is the Madhavendra Bhawan, which has 13 identical suites so that it was easy for the Maharaja to visit any of the queen’s rooms without others finding out.
Nahargarh Fort is a great place to watch sunsets, enjoy stunning views, and go on a cycling expedition.
Opening time: 6:30 am to 10:00 pm
Cost: INR 200 for foreigners
Website: https://www.tourism.rajasthan.gov.in/nahargarh-fort
GaltaJi Temple
This stunning temple embodies architectural brilliance, historical significance, and spiritual vibes. It has seven water tanks fed by a mountain spring, pilgrims bathe in it to wash away their sins. You can enjoy the presence of the monkeys, watch the sunset from Sun Temple, and hike up the GaltaJi trail.
Opening time: 5 am to 9 pm
Cost: No entry fee
If you enjoyed this Golden Triangle India Itinerary, explore other articles about Asia and expand your knowledge of this diverse and fascinating continent!
