Trips and Tours to India's Golden TriangleVisit India's famous golden triangle and take in some of India's most famous sights

Visit the Golden Triangle

India's Golden Triangle is a popular tourist circuit that connects three of the country's most iconic destinations: Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. ‘Golden’ refers to the rich cultural heritage and diverse attractions within this route, which is named after the geographical positioning of these cities on the map. Delhi, the capital city, offers a blend of historical landmarks like the Red Fort and Qutub Minar alongside bustling markets and modern amenities. Agra, home to the world-famous Taj Mahal, showcases the architectural brilliance of the Mughal era. Jaipur, known as the "Pink City," captivates visitors with its majestic palaces, forts like Amber Fort, and vibrant bazaars. Together, these destinations provide a comprehensive glimpse into India's history, architecture, and culture, making the Golden Triangle an essential itinerary for travellers.

Triangle point one: Delhi

Qutub Minar
Qutub Minar

New Delhi is the main gateway into the north of the country. Arriving at New Delhi is an experience in itself and you'll get your first taste of India as soon as you exit the airport - it's always buzzing with activity, and you’re bound to hear the cacophony of car horns even at 2 in the morning - a trademark of driving anywhere in India! Delhi really is a tale of two cities: New Delhi and Old Delhi, both poles apart and with their own distinct character.

New Delhi

As the capital city of India since independence back in 1947, you'll find that New Delhi is really nothing like Old Delhi at all, with beautiful wide tree lined roads and the sprawling buildings of the Bungalow Zone, designed by Edwin Lutyens. The main sites of New Delhi include Rashtrapati Bhawan, Humayun’s Tomb - a UNESCO World Heritage site - and iconic India Gate. New Delhi is very much a modern city too and you'll be spoilt for choice with its many bars and quality restaurants, many of which are housed in 5-star hotels. A stroll down Janpath (People's Path) up to Connaught Place is worth it and we'd also recommend staying at the nearby Imperial Hotel; designed by Lutyens, where their impressive art collection will be sure to transport you back to days of the British Raj.

Old Delhi

Still surrounded by crumbling city walls, Old Delhi is packed with busy bazaars and tiny lanes full of rickshaws, so you must take a rickshaw ride through the main drag, Chandni Chowk. While you're here, get a true flavour of India, stopping by the Gali Paranthe Wali for some parathas, a flavoursome fried Indian bread. Perhaps the biggest draw card in Old Delhi is the Red Fort, built with beautiful red sandstone. Then there's Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque and revered Raj Ghat, where Mahatma Gandhi, was cremated. If you have time, it's worth visiting the UNESCO listed 73-meter-tall tower of Qutub Minar too and the nearby iron Pillar of Delhi. And for a taste of the Raj, consider staying a night at the charming heritage listed Oberoi Maidens hotel in Old Delhi, one of Delhi's first hotels.

Triangle point two: Agra

Taj Mahal
Taj Mahal

Home to the world-famous Taj Mahal, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, Agra needs no introduction. The Taj Mahal is India's biggest drawcard, topping the list of reasons to visit the country, so no holiday here would be complete without a trip to this Monument of Love. Eclipsed by the fame of the Taj Mahal, Agra is also home to the impressive red sandstone Agra Fort, and from the Musamman Burj section, you get a fabulous view over to the Taj Mahal too. You don't have to stay at Agra overnight as it's a great day trip from Delhi, but we do recommend a 1-night stay so you can see the Taj at both sunrise and sunset.

Triangle point three: Jaipur

Amber Fort
Amber Fort

Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan and popularly known as the Pink City, is a firm favourite with travellers and for good reason. Just outside the main city is the lofty Amber Fort with fabulous views of Jaipur and the surrounding area. Within the old city head to 18th century Jantar Mantar, a fascinating outdoor observatory complex and the oldest in the world! The nearby City Palace Complex offers an intriguing blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture, and at the edge of the City Palace you'll find the famous Hava Mahal or Palace of Winds. We recommend exploring the colourful city markets, just wandering around the many stalls is an experience in of itself. There are plenty of great accommodation options in Jaipur, from authentic Havelis to modern 5-star properties.

When is the best time to visit India's Golden Triangle?

The best time to visit India's Golden Triangle is during the cooler months of October to March. During this period, the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). These months are perfect for exploring outdoor attractions like the Taj Mahal, Red Fort, and Delhi's historic monuments without the scorching heat of summer or the heavy rains of monsoon season. Additionally, festivals like Diwali (October/November) and Holi (March) add a vibrant cultural dimension to your visit.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Golden Triangle, and why is it famous?

The Golden Triangle is a travel route linking Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. It’s famous for its rich history, iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal, and vibrant culture.

Is the Golden Triangle suitable for solo travellers?

What should I pack for a Golden Triangle trip?

Are guided tours recommended?

What cultural etiquette should I keep in mind?

Is the Taj Mahal open every day?

What precautions should I take for safety?

India Highlights

Discover some of the most popular Indian destinations on one of our tours

Tours to similar destinations!

See more India tours
Sign up to our newsletter for exclusive deals
Get exclusive deals, travel tips and more.
4.4 out of 5 based on 277 reviews