India leaves a profound, enduring influence on every traveller coming across the globe. India is a country with a long history and strong cultural traditions. It is a kaleidoscope of nature, architecture wonders, different flavours and philosophies of a diverse population that will overwhelm your senses and offer you an immense holiday experience as you explore the country in depth. And when we are talking about a summarization of these all, nothing is better than exploring the Golden Triangle in India. The circuit offers a marvellously diverse introduction to the country’s cultures and traditions. The tranquil religious places, architectural splendours and noisy street life are the introduction for those who want to know India extensively. Check out the blog for everything you need to know about the Golden Triangle Tour in India.
Why is it called the Golden Triangle Tour of India?
The three most popular tourist destinations in northwest India, Delhi, Agra and Jaipur are together known as the “Golden Triangle.” All these three cities are well-connected by both road and rail. Each of them is located 200-250 kilometres from each other, thus forming an imaginary triangle on the map. This imaginary triangle has been dubbed ‘golden’ for the abundance of cultural and historical splendours available in each of the three cities. By choosing this Golden Triangle Tourism Circuit, you will be able to explore the rich cultural heritage of incredible India.
Why Should You Choose A Golden Triangle Tour India?
There are innumerable reasons for choosing a Golden Triangle India Tour. Some of them are:
- Culture: In India, you will be able to experience various kinds of fairs and festivals celebrating different customs throughout the year. The country widely celebrates different festivals like Holi, Diwali, Teej, Kite and many more, specifically in the Golden Triangle Circuit. Experiencing these festivals is one of the top things to do in Golden Triangle Tour, that will help you to know the country better.
- Architecture: People say if you have to know about the history of a country, start learning about its architecture first. India is one such country in the world which is exceptionally rich in its architectural diversity. And, you will be surprised to know that 25 per cent of the total UNESCO World Heritage Sites are located in the Golden Triangle Circuit. From historical forts, palaces, and Havelis to temples, mosques, and ancient ruins – the three cities in the circuit are prime destinations to explore the architectural wonders of India.
- Spirituality: One of the top reasons for travellers visiting in India is to find a calm and peaceful environment to enlighten their souls. As India is the birthplace of several religions like Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism and many more, you will find so many religious places where spirituality offers a new course of life. The Golden Triangle Circuit includes some amazing temples, mosques, gurudwaras and other religious places where religions and spirituality meet with each other.
- Cuisines: If we are talking about the top reasons for choosing the Golden Triangle Tour circuit, the list cannot be concluded without talking about the cuisines. Indian culture is hugely influenced by the food, which also plays an important role in festivals as well as everyday life. If we just talk about the cities in Golden Triangle Circuit, you will find a great difference in the cuisines. Where food in Delhi and Agra has been dominated by Persian and Mughal styles, in Jaipur you will find the influence of Rajput flavour. Exploring each of them will give you an idea about the history and tradition of the country.
- Shopping: A Delhi Agra & Jaipur Rajasthan Tour cannot be concluded without experiencing the colourful teeming markets of these cities. The loudness of the vendors and buyers and the ongoing chaos of bargaining will give you a vivid idea about what happens in the core part of Indian cities. A major part of the trip will be associated with the shopping experience in some of the famous markets in Delhi, Agra and Jaipur and will create unforgettable memories of the trip.
Most Popular Golden Triangle India Tour Packages
A Complete Guide To Golden Triangle Tour Of India
Delhi, The Capital Of Cultural Heritage Of India
Home to 32 million people and counting, an international metropolis and capital of India, one of the prime hubs of South Asia, Delhi is the pinnacle of North India’s Golden Triangle Tourism Circuit. As it is the capital city of the country, the communication options are plenty. It is well-connected with the major cities in the world. Moreover, it is also interconnected with the major cities in India with an easily accessible network of transportation options. Delhi is home to tombs, temples, and ruins that date back centuries. On the other hand, there is also a rising youth scene, which is highlighted by fashionable pubs, chic cafés, and nightclubs. The amalgamation of both resulted in a city, which is full of life and fascinating corners where you could spend days and weeks.
Places You Must Visit In Delhi
A typical Delhi sightseeing tour can be divided based on the places located in Old and New Delhi. Here are some of the main attractions of Delhi where you can start your Golden Triangle Trip.
India Gate: India Gate was built in honour of brave soldiers. Another name of this monument is the All India War Memorial. It faces the Presidents’ House, Rashtrapati Bhavan and stands as a symbol of bravery. The Amar Jawan Jyoti is a flame that continuously burns here in honour of the gallantry of the warriors who gave their lives in battle. The neighbouring green parks are a pleasant spot to relax.
Red Fort: This marvellous architecture is one of India’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. One of the popular visiting places in Delhi, Red Fort was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. The monument is made of red sandstone and is a city in itself. There are many breathtaking sights to see in this former capital of the Mughals. Some places to see in Red Fort or Lal Qila are the Moti Masjid, Khas Mahal, Diwan-e-Aam, and Diwan-e-Khas, Hira Mahal and many more.
Humayun’s Tomb: This is another UNESCO World Heritage Site to visualise the magnificent artworks by the Persian architects under the supervision of Mughal Emperors. It is the first garden tomb built in India and also the first one made of red sandstone. The complex includes Humayun’s tomb and graves of some eminent Mughal Emperors and Empresses.
Qutub Minar: One of the intriguing architectures in Delhi, Qutub Minar is the world’s tallest brick minaret. The structure always amuses the visitors as it has been standing there for around 2000 years without a speckle of rust. Built in the 12th century, it is another UNESCO World Heritage Site without which you cannot complete your Delhi sightseeing tour.
Lotus Temple: Famed for its architectural beauty, Lotus Temple is located in Shambhu Dayal Bagh, Kalkaji, New Delhi. It was built in 1986 as a Baháʼí House of Worship and opened to all, despite religion and qualification. It is shaped like a lotus flower and has become one of the popular sightseeing places in the city.
Places Where You Must Eat In Delhi
- Nizamuddin
- Khan Market
- Karol Bagh
- Dilli Haat
- Majnu ka Tila
- Jama Masjid
- Connaught Place
- CR Park
- Madras Coffee House
Places Where You Must Shop In Delhi
- Dilli Haat
- Khan Market
- Janpath Market
- Paharganj
- Chandni Chowk
- Connaught Place
- Greater Kailash
- Karol Bagh Market
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Agra, The Historical Capital Of Architecture Wonders!
The next stop of the Golden Triangle Tourism Circuit is Agra, home to one of the seven wonders of the world. A popular destination on the banks of Yamuna River in Uttar Pradesh, Agra is a city where history, architecture and romance create magic. Agra attracts history buffs and architecture lovers from all over the world. It is mostly visited on a day trip from nearby cities in Uttar Pradesh and Delhi, Lucknow and Varanasi. Apart from the history fanatics, Agra is also famed among foodies who love to explore India’s famous street foods. A sweet snack, Petha, made from pumpkin, rosewater and saffron is as famous as the Taj Mahal in Agra. Let’s know about some travel tips for Agra.
Places You Must Visit In Agra
Check out the following must-visit places to have a memorable Agra Sightseeing Tour.
Taj Mahal: A marvellous monument entirely made of white marble on the bank of the River Yamuna, built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the remembrance of his third wife, Mumtaz Begum – Taj Mahal is one of the seven wonders of the world. This 17th-century architectural wonder attracts seven to eight million travellers every year from all over the world. It took 17 years to complete the architecture, which houses the tomb of Shah Jahan. A massive complex covering an area of 42 acres, it includes a massive gateway and a well-maintained garden with water channels and fountains.
Agra Fort: Taj Mahal is not the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Agra. It is also home to Agra Fort, a centuries-old red sandstone fortress that was formerly the imperial capital for a lineage of Mughal emperors, and another renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site in the city. Exploring the fort is like exploring a city within itself including the stunning sights here. The Jahangir Mahal, a huge palace with beautiful Hindu-inspired features and Central Asian architectural components, is the most remarkable structure in Agra Fort. Tourists can also visit the inside, especially the central court where royal women spent their days. Other notable buildings that people must visit are Anguri Bagh, Khas Mahal, Musamman Burj, and Diwan-i-Khas.
Fatehpur Sikri: Another ancient Mughal city complex in Agra, Fatehpur Sikri was built by the famous Mughal Emperor, Akbar to pay honour to Shaikh Salim Chishti, who predicted the birth of an heir. One of the best things to do in Agra is to explore Fatehpur Sikri, which is a well-maintained redstone ghost town. It is surrounded by a fortification wall and includes three palaces, dedicated to Akbar’s three wives. There is also a mosque, Jama Masjid, which was the first completed building. The city was abandoned soon after its establishment for the scarcity of water. You must visit the Archaeological Museum in Fatehpur Sikri to learn about the treasures found in the Mughal era and beyond.
Akbar’s Mausoleum: Located in Sikandra, Agra, Akbar’s Mausoleum is an exceptional artwork of the Mughal Period. It houses the mortal remains of Akbar, who ruled India for nearly 50 years, along with his two daughters and the graves of Aurangzeb’s daughter and son-in-law. The building is different from all the buildings built in the Mughal period. As per the Islamic rules, the buildings face west, towards Mecca, but Akbar’s tomb faces east, opposite Mecca. The structure is flanked by decorated Mughal gardens where you can see deer, monkeys and a few peacocks wandering.
Agra’s Old City: A flavour of India’s old heritage part, the old city of Agra is one of the popular tourist attractions. The old buildings with intricate artworks, the congested alleys between them, the noisy streets and their food stalls – everything makes this part of Agra full of life. You can explore the authentic neighbourhoods of Agra by choosing a heritage walking tour. The tour will lead you to some of the oldest sweet and snack shops where you will have some amazing food.
Places Where You Must Eat In Agra
- Dasaprakash
- Jhankar
- Peshawri
- Laxmi Vilas
- Sadar Bazar
- Kinari Bazar
- Pinch of Spice
- Jahanpanah
- Shankara Vegis Restaurant
Places Where You Must Shop In Agra
- Shah Market
- Subhash Emporium
- Raja ki Mandi
- Kinari Bazaar
- Shoe Market
- Subhas Bazaar
- Shahganj Bazaar
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Jaipur, The Royal Capital Of India!
Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, is the capital of Rajasthan, founded in AD 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. The city, designed by Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, is India’s first planned city and one of the must visit attractions in Golden Triangle India. The pink-hued forts and palaces, wide avenues and spacious gardens reside here with the history of Maharajas and Maharanis. The city proudly shows the blend of its historical past and the advantages of being a metropolis. The vibrant bazaars of Jaipur, known for their Rajasthani jewellery, clothing, and shoes, have a timeless appeal and are a shoppers’ paradise. The majestic forts in the skyline of the city are some of the major tourist attractions in Jaipur besides the eye-catching lakes and Havelis. According to history, the entire city of Jaipur was painted pink by Maharaja Ram Singh to show the royal hospitality to the Prince of Wales who came for a trip to India in 1876. The pink hue that spreads throughout the city is a wonderful sight to behold.
Places You Must Visit In Jaipur
Following are some of the Jaipur Rajasthan Sightseeing Places that you should add to your Itinerary for India’s Golden Triangle.
Hawa Mahal: Also known as the “Palace of Breeze,” Hawa Mahal is one of the best visiting destinations in India. It was built in 1799 as an extension of the City Palace, specifically for the women in royal families. Hawa Mahal has 953 windows on its outside walls to allow wind through the palace. It used to be treated as the perfect summer place for the royal families. Visit the place in the early morning to see its stunning look when the mahal is illuminated by the golden rays.
City Palace: One of the main tourist attractions, yet another marvellous architecture, City Palace is a complex of mahals and Havelis in northeast Jaipur. The City Palace was built by Sawai Jai Singh II between 1729 and 1732 AD. It possesses a mixed style of Rajput, Mughal and European. The palace includes Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal and many courtyards and buildings. This architectural marvel showing Rajput history definitely adds up to the list of places for exploring Delhi Agra & Jaipur on your Golden Triangle Trip.
Amber Fort: One of the marvellous architectures in Jaipur, Amer Fort is located about 11 kilometres far from the main city. It sits atop a hillock and offers a stunning view of an extensive palace complex that is made of white marble along with pale yellow and pink sandstone. The fort is divided into certain sections, including gardens, temples, King’s quarters, zenana and heavily worked gates. Some of the must-visit sections of the fort are Sheesh Mahal, Diwan-i-aam, royal temples and underground water tunnels that connect Amer with Jaigarh Fort.
Jaigarh Fort: Forts have a certain allure that draws historians, photographers, and culture enthusiasts from far and wide. One magnificent example of that is the magnificent Jaigarh Fort in Jaipur. Like other forts in the Pink City, it was constructed in 1726 by Sawai Jai Singh II and is built on top of a hill. The Jaivana Cannon, the largest cannon on wheels in the world, is one of this fort’s main attractions. The Jaigarh Fort’s hill is known locally as “Cheel ka Teela” or “Hill of the Eagle.” Currently, visitors from all over the world are welcomed to explore this impressive fort.
Nahargarh Fort: One of the magnificent forts, situated in the foothills of the Aravalli mountain ranges, Nahargarh Fort was previously known as Sudarshangarh. The fort was again built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in 1734 as a focus on defence for Jaipur City. As the hills were inhabited by tigers, the fort was named after them; Nahargarh means “abode of tigers.” The fort complex includes a temple, which is dedicated to the main deity of the royal families and a two-storey building dedicated to Sawai Madho Singh, named Madhavendra Bhavan. There is also an open area, known as Diwan-i-aam, where the king used to listen to the common people’s complaints.
Jal Mahal: One of the unique destinations in Jaipur is the Jal Mahal or the Water Palace, which is spread in the centre of Man Sagar Lake. The city is dotted with stunning architecture and Jal Mahal stands atop the list with its uniqueness as it is made of red sandstone in the middle of the Pink City. Once treated as the shooting lodge for Maharajas, Jal Mahal gives a look of a floating structure at first. Inside it, the palace is not that high and it is flanked by four dome-shaped pillars. Nowadays, it houses a famous restaurant inside. You can visit the palace once you opt for the service in the restaurant.
Places Where You Must Eat In Jaipur
- Laxmi Mishthan Bhandar
- Rawat Mishthan Bhandar
- Gulab Ji Chaiwala
- Masala Chowk
- Al Bake
- Pandit’s
- Sethi Bar-Be-Que
- Falahaar
- Bapu Bazaar
Places Where You Must Shop In Jaipur
- Chandpol Bazaar
- Johari Bazaar
- Tripolia Bazaar
- Bapu Bazaar
- Nehru Bazaar
- Aravali Bazaar
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Hope you enjoyed reading the ultimate guide to India’s Golden Triangle Tour. If this travel guide incites your wish for planning a trip to India and know about its cultural heritage in depth, or you want to know more about the places and the itinerary, you can contact us directly. Moreover, you can browse our website for Golden Triangle Tour packages, which can be customised based on your requirements. Comment here which of these three cities you want to explore first.
Other Interesting Blogs to Read
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is India's Golden Triangle Circuit and why is this so famous?
Golden Triangle Circuit includes Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, the three places in India which see a high density of tourist footfalls throughout the year. The circuit is the most popular tourist route in India for exploring the richness of India’s vibrant culture. Precisely, the Golden Triangle Tour is the perfect way to start knowing about the country in depth.
How to plan a perfect Golden Triangle Trip in India?
A perfect Golden Triangle India Itinerary starts from Delhi to Agra and ends in Jaipur. You can conclude the trip in Jaipur or visit another city or state to extend the trip. Plan a minimum of two to three days for the places to explore in each city and have the best experience to know about the cultural heritage of India.
How many minimum days are required to experience the best of India's Golden Triangle Tour?
A minimum of six to ten days are required to experience the best of India's Golden Triangle Tour. However, we always recommend staying in a place for maximum days to know it better and in depth.
What is the Best Time to Do a Golden Triangle Tour in India?
For international travellers, the best time to do a Golden Triangle Tour is between the months of October to March, specifically during the winter. As the places you will visit on your Golden Triangle Tour are located in North India, it will be difficult to roam around the cities during the hot summer. Temperature ranges between 5 and 15 degrees celsius during winter and the weather remains pleasant for traveling comfortably.
About the author
From the ‘City of Joy,’ Kolkata, Nandini Bhattacharya is a Travel Writer by profession and traveller by passion. She loves to explore places around the world, new cultures, different cuisines and all new things that one can learn outside the home. She also loves to document her journey so that people can be inspired and travel more. Nandini is a nature lover and talks about sustainable tourism. She wants to make this world a good place where people can live healthy and happily.
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