The Golden Triangle is a classic introduction for any visitor to India. However, nothing can quite prepare you for the fascinating array of sights, smells and colour you will experience on an adventure through Northern India. Read on to discover what you can expect on our India's Golden Triangle tour.
What is India's Golden Triangle?
The Golden Triangle is a popular tourist circuit that takes in Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. If you look at a map, these three cities form a rough equilateral triangle, which has been named “golden” due to the abundance of cultural and historical sights that can be found there.
Which Indian cities are in the Golden Triangle?
Delhi
The first stop on our Golden Triangle tours of India is Delhi. While you may experience some initial culture shock, with so many people gathered in the streets, this will quickly fade. Old Delhi is loud and chaotic, but it has wonderful character. We will experience the busy marketplace, Chandni Chowk, by rickshaw. Winding through the narrow lanes, all to the soundtrack of beeping horns, is an unforgettable experience. If India had a theme tune it would most definitely be the sound of hooting, tooting traffic!
The hustle and bustle of Old Delhi is beautifully contrasted with the relatively calm area of New Delhi. Dusty alleyways give way to broad avenues filled with greenery. Seeing children playing cricket in Princes Park is a reminder of the British rule that was present in India up until 1947.
Top sights in Delhi:
- Red Fort: A magnificent 17th-century Mughal fortress built from striking red sandstone. It was once the main residence of the Mughal emperors, and today it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an enduring symbol of India’s rich history.
- Jama Masjid: One of the largest and most impressive mosques in India. It was built by Emperor Shah Jahan, the creator of the Taj Mahal, and remains a remarkable example of Mughal architecture.
- Qutub Minar: A 73-metre stone tower dating back to the 12th century. Its intricate carvings and imposing height make it one of Delhi’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO-listed monument.
- Humayun’s Tomb: A beautiful Mughal mausoleum set in serene formal gardens. It inspired the design of the Taj Mahal and offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of the city.
Jaipur
Next up is Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. This region lies predominantly in the desert, so the journey by coach from Delhi to Jaipur offers a wonderful chance to see the changing landscapes of Northern India. Jaipur is popularly known as the Pink City thanks to its trademark red-washed buildings, and it is home to some of the most impressive monuments in the country.
Top sights in Jaipur:
- Amber Fort: Set high on a hill overlooking the city, this vast 17th-century fort is home to the spectacular Hall of Mirrors. More than a million tiny mirror tiles and pieces of coloured glass decorate the walls and ceiling. Our expert local guide will even show you how to take fun trick photographs by aiming your camera at certain mirrors to capture reflections from other parts of the hall.
- Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds): An ornate five-storey façade built in the 18th century. Its lattice windows allowed the women of the royal household to observe the streets below while remaining unseen.
- City Palace: A beautifully preserved complex of courtyards, gardens and historic buildings that still houses the former royal family of Jaipur.
- Jantar Mantar Observatory: A UNESCO-listed collection of 18th-century astronomical instruments, including the world’s largest stone sundial.
Agra
Our final stop on India’s Golden Triangle is Agra, a city that played a central role in shaping India’s Mughal history. For generations it served as the capital of the Mughal Empire, flourishing as a centre of art, architecture and culture. Today, Agra offers a fascinating blend of grand monuments, bustling markets and glimpses of everyday life along the Yamuna River.
Top sights in Agra:
- Taj Mahal: One of the world’s most iconic monuments, the Taj Mahal is an ivory-white marble mausoleum built by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Glowing beautifully at sunrise and sunset, it feels both intimate and grand. Even with the crowds, it is surprisingly peaceful, and sitting on the bench made famous by Princess Diana in 1992 is a true “pinch me” moment. Hearing our expert guides recount the moving love story behind its creation makes the experience even more memorable.
- Agra Fort: A powerful red-sandstone fortress that served as the primary residence of the Mughal emperors before the capital moved to Delhi. Within its walls you will find elegant palaces, audience halls and courtyards, alongside impressive views towards the Taj Mahal. It is a superb example of Mughal architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Can you do a safari on India's Golden Triangle?
Yes, it is possible to add a safari experience to a Golden Triangle holiday. Many people choose to include a visit to Ranthambore National Park, which is known for its beautiful landscapes and the chance to spot wildlife such as deer, monkeys and, with a little luck, the majestic Bengal tiger. It offers a peaceful contrast to the bustle of Delhi, Jaipur and Agra, and adds an exciting extra dimension to your India holiday.
Ready to take on India's Golden Triangle?
Experience your own unforgettable journey to Delhi, Jaipur and Agra on a holiday to India’s Golden Triangle with Travel Department. If you would like to visit these cities and experience a safari, our India’s Golden Triangle - Taj Mahal & Ranthambore Safari is the perfect option, where we will have the opportunity to spot Tigers and other incredible Indian wildlife.
