The Golden Triangle is a popular tourist route in India that connects the cities of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. These three cities are known for their rich history, cultural attractions, and stunning architecture, and they offer a wide range of things to see and do for visitors. In this travel guide, we’ll be sharing some of the top things to see and do on the Golden Triangle in India.
Practicalities:
Getting there & getting around:
India is a 8 hour flight from London, with a 5 hour timezone change.
Rickshaws and taxis: Rickshaws and taxis are a convenient way to get around in India, and are available in most cities and towns. Prices can vary, so it is a good idea to negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
Renting a car: If you prefer to have your own transportation, you can rent a car in India. However, keep in mind that traffic in India can be chaotic and driving can be challenging, especially if you are not used to driving in developing countries.
Trains: India has a large and efficient rail network, and trains are a convenient and affordable way to get around the country. You can find trains to most major cities and tourist destinations.
There are several companies in India that offer private bus hire services, which allow you to rent a bus for your group for a specific period of time. Private bus hire can be a convenient option if you are traveling with a large group and want to have your own transportation.
Forms Needed:
- Vaccine Declaration
- Visa
- NHS Vaccine Pass
- Insurance
Visa cost varies depending on your passport, It is $50 for EVisa, but £150 for a British Passport.
Price:
India is a very affordable destination, There are budget options for stays but depending on what level of Luxury you want, it might be worth paying a bit more for a room with toilet paper. We went for 4-5 star hotels with a private vehicle and the summary of that is below.
Below is a rough guide for 2 people for a week long trip of 8 days/ 7 nights
- Hotel: £420
- Flights: £800
- Food: £15/PD
- Transfers: £150
How Long To Stay:
We went for a week, which was the perfect amount of time to see the golden triangle. However this is much more to India than the Golden Triangle. I definitely want to return and do more of South India.
When To Go:
The best time to visit India is between October and March, when the weather is more likely to be warm, sunny, and dry. During this time, the north offers clear blue skies. However, December and January are much cooler, with potential fog, while the higher Himalaya can be very cold, but with clearer mountain views.
Travel Tips:
Bring your own toilet paper, not all public toilets will supply them.
Prepare for the occasional squat toilet.
VEGGIE
What To See & Do in India:
Agra
- Visit the Taj Mahal: The Taj Mahal is the most famous landmark in Agra and is a must-see sight. This white marble mausoleum was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, and is considered one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture.
- Explore the Agra Fort: The Agra Fort is a large fortress located on the banks of the Yamuna River, and is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fort is a testament to the power and wealth of the Mughal Empire and is home to a number of palaces, temples, and gardens.
Jaipur
- Visit the Hawa Mahal: The Hawa Mahal is a iconic landmark in Jaipur, and is known for its intricate pink sandstone facade. It was built as a royal residence and is now a popular tourist attraction.
- Explore the City Palace: The City Palace is a large palace complex located in the heart of Jaipur. It is home to a number of museums and galleries, and is a testament to the wealth and power of the Maharajas of Jaipur.
- Visit the Jal Mahal: The Jal Mahal is a palace located in the middle of a lake, and is a popular spot for boat rides and picnics. The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is a peaceful and serene place to visit.
New Delhi
- Visit the Red Fort: The Red Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most iconic landmarks in New Delhi. It is a large fortress built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, and is known for its red sandstone walls and intricate carvings.
- Explore the India Gate: The India Gate is a war memorial located in the heart of New Delhi. It is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and is a great place to go for a walk or a picnic.
- Visit the Rashtrapati Bhavan: The Rashtrapati Bhavan is the official residence of the President of India, and is a popular tourist attraction. It is a large complex with beautiful gardens and is a great place to go for a walk or a picnic.
Suggested 7 Day Golden Triangle Travel Guide and Itinerary:
Day 1: New Delhi
Day 2: New Delhi
Day 3: Agra
Day 4: Karauli
Day 5: Jaipur
Day 6: Jaipur
Day 7: New Delhi
Enjoy Delicious Food
India is known for its delicious and flavorful curries, and there are many different types to try while in the country. Here are some of the best curries to try in India:
- Chana masala: Chana masala is a vegetarian curry made with chickpeas cooked in a spicy tomato-based sauce. It is often served with rice or naan bread.
- Palak paneer: Palak paneer is a vegetarian curry made with paneer cheese and spinach cooked in a creamy sauce. It is often served with rice or naan bread.
- Goan fish curry: Goan fish curry is a curry made with fish cooked in a spicy coconut-based sauce. It is a popular dish in the Goa region of India and is often served with rice or bread.
- Dosa: Dosa is a popular dish in South India, made with a thin, crispy pancake made from fermented rice and lentils. It is often served with a variety of fillings and chutneys.
