Travel to the Golden Triangle

Comprising Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, the Golden Triangle promises the perfect India luxury vacation.

From Delhi to the Taj Mahal, this iconic circuit encompass a rich tapestry of experiences. In Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan, travelers can immerse themselves in the regal splendor of palaces and forts. They can also enjoy the finest in luxury India travel accommodations and services, all in less than 10 days.

Each city within the Golden Triangle provides a unique glimpse into India's majestic past and contemporary elegance. So, when planning your next India luxury vacation, consider using the following Golden Triangle tour as your inspiration.

Delhi 

Delhi, the capital of India, is a modern buzzing metropolitan city. Travelers will therefore find remnants of the past strewn amongst the modern buildings. Established between 900 BCE and 1930 CE, Delhi's famous "seven cities" shine brightly. 

How Long to Stay

You will want to stay at least two nights to see all of the wonders of Delhi with a private tour guide.

What to See

Major sites in Delhi include the Rashtra Pati Bhawan and Shahjahanbad, home of the Red Fort. In addition, Jama Masjid in the famed Chandni Chowk in the heart of Old Delhi is a must-see.

Old Delhi

• Chandni Chowk. Once the grandest of markets in India. Even though today Chandni Chowk appears choked with congestion, it retains its historical character. Immerse yourself in the colorful stalls and crowded alleyways of this historical market on a rickshaw ride.
• Jama Masjid. The largest and most splendid mosque in India, completed in 1656 AD. The Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, builder of the Taj Mahal, commissioned it.
• The Spice Market. Asia's largest wholesale spice market, in operation since the 17th century. Located on ‘Khari Baoli’ street in Old Delhi, it features a plethora of spices, nuts, herbs, rice, and tea.

New Delhi

• India Gate. This massive high stone arch of triumph stands at the eastern end of the Rajpath. It bears the names of 85,000 Indian Army soldiers who died in World War I, the Northwest frontier, and the 1919 Anglo-Afghan War. 
• Rashtrapati Bhawan (President House). The magnificent presidential palace. The official residence of the President of India stands at the opposite end of the Rajpath from India Gate.
• Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. One of the most prominent Sikh gurudwara (place of worship). As with all Sikh gurudwaras, they still practice the concept of langar (community kitchen). Therefore, all visitors, regardless of race or religion may eat in the gurudwara kitchen.
• Humayun's Tomb. A complex of buildings built as the Mughal Emperor Humayun's tomb. Commissioned by Humayun's wife Hamida Banu Begum in 1562, it was the first structure to use red sandstone at such a scale. As such, the complex became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.

Agra

The capital of the Mughal Empire in the 16th and 17th centuries CE, Agra houses three UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Between the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri, Agra proves an essential stop on any India luxury vacation.  

How Long to Stay

Consider staying two nights in Agra so you can visit the Taj Mahal at both sunrise and sunset.

What to See

• Taj Mahal. One of the most elegant and harmonious buildings in the world and an exquisite testimony to undying love. Visitors can of course see this in its architecture, garden design, painting, and calligraphy. One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this iconic structure proves even more unforgettable in the early morning at sunrise on a Taj Mahal private tour.
• Mehtab Bagh. By far the best place to view the Taj Mahal at sunset. Located on the left bank of the Yamuna River, the garden complex sits in straight alignment with the Taj Mahal.
• Agra Fort. During the Mughal rule, when Agra was the capital of the kingdom, Agra Fort was the centerpiece of the city. Notable buildings in the fort include the Diwan-e-Am and Diwan-e-Khas (halls of public and private audience). Also of note: Jehangir's Palace, Khaas Mahal, Sheesh Mahal (mirrored palace), and Musamman Burj.
• Fatehpur Sikri. An ancient city near Agra, founded by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in the late 16th century CE. It features a stunning blend of Islamic, Hindu, and Jain architectural styles, reflecting Akbar's vision of religious harmony. Notable structures include the grand Buland Darwaza, the Jama Masjid, and the intricately designed Panch Mahal.

Jaipur

Founded in 1728 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, the "Pink City" of Jaipur is where modernity and tradition exist side by side. The walled city, vibrant with colors, houses the City Palace, an observatory, and a bustling bazaar. Here, artisans fashion puppets, silver jewelry, lac bangles, and other handicrafts in their workshops.

How Long to Stay

Stay in Jaipur at least three nights so you have ample time to both shop and sightsee in and around the city.

What to See

• Abhaneri. En route to Jaipur from Agra, stop for a day trip to Abhaneri, home to one of the deepest step wells in India. It has 3,500 narrow steps across 13 stories and extends approximately 100 feet into the ground. Indeed, the steps and surroundings offers an example of the great Indian architects' expertise.
• Bazaars and Artisans. Stroll through the bazaars and see the crafts in Old Jaipur with a private guide. Jaipur is awash with craftsman and artisans which makes a wander through the streets beyond memorable.
  • In Ghat Darwaja and Vishweshwar Ji, observe local artisans and master craftsmen in their workshops.
  • Then in Tripolia gate, enjoy the colorful and vibrant bazaar.
  • And walk through Hanuman Ji Ka Rasta, a bustling alley and a craft lover's delight. You will find everything from wedding card manufacturers, book binding, and printing, to gold and silver casters.
  • For foodies, Ghee Walon Ka Rasta boasts the best food. Sample Indian savory snacks including samosa, kachori, and pakora. For those with a sweeter tooth, try the ladoos.
• Hawa Mahal. Perhaps Jaipur’s most famous building, the pink sandstone façade was built for the ladies of the harem by Sawai Pratap Singh. It contains 953 small casements under a huge curve, each with a balcony and crowning arch. The windows enable cool air (Hawa) to circulate and the zenana to watch processions below without others seeing them. 
• The Amber Fort. Once the ancient citadel of the ruling Kachhawa clan of Amber. Amber Fort has a unique artistic style. It blends both Hindu and Muslim (Mughal) elements, as well as ornate and breathtaking artistic mastery.
• The City Palace. A wonderful combination of Mughal and Rajput forms of architecture. The City Palace now partly houses miniature paintings, manuscripts, Mughal carpets, musical instruments, royal costumes, and weapons. It therefore provides invaluable insight into Jaipur's royal past.
• The Observatory Tower (Jantar Mantar). Built between 1728 and 1734, it houses precise instruments for measuring “the harmony of heavens.” Each instrument serves a particular function and also gives an accurate reading.
• Panna Meena Ka Kund. The most popular source of water in the 16th century CE and one of the country's most famous stepwells. Descend a series of stairwells to access these mostly man-made pools of water. The original purpose of this was to supply the locals with water for drinking and other daily needs.

Travel beyond the Golden Circle at one of these unmissable extension destinations. Both options ensure an even more well-rounded India luxury vacation.

Travel to the Golden Triangle
with Ker & Downey

From bustling markets to UNESCO protected sites, luxury India travel to the Golden Triangle will touch your soul. Contact a Ker & Downey Travel Designer to personalize your own India luxury vacation. And read more about the seasonality and pricing in Southern Asia. For even more travel inspiration, follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.