The Golden Triangle is one of India’s most famous travel routes, connecting Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. We explored this route independently and loved discovering its history, culture, and cuisine. This guide shares our experiences and practical tips to help you plan your own adventure.
Delhi: The Bustling Capital
Delhi, India’s vibrant capital, is a fascinating mix of old and new. During our 3-day stay, we explored the city’s historic landmarks, modern attractions, and bustling markets.
Day 1: Historical and Cultural Sights
- Red Fort: A massive red sandstone fort and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the museums, gardens, and evening light and sound shows.
- Jama Masjid: One of India’s largest mosques with stunning views of Old Delhi from its minaret.
- Raj Ghat: Gandhi’s memorial site in a peaceful garden.
Day 2: Modern Delhi and Iconic Landmarks
- India Gate: War memorial surrounded by lawns and an eternal flame.
- Connaught Place: A bustling commercial hub with shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
- Dinner at Pandara Road: For an unforgettable meal, head to Pandara Road. Our favorite restaurant in all of India was Gulati, known for its delicious North Indian cuisine. It’s a must-visit spot to experience authentic flavors after a day of sightseeing.
Day 3: Markets and Local Experiences
- Chandni Chowk: A vibrant market full of street food, including the famous Paranthe Wali Gali.
- Qutub Minar: The tallest brick minaret in the world, surrounded by historical ruins.
- Dilli Haat: An open-air market featuring crafts, food, and cultural performances from across India.
Read our detailed Delhi guide for more tips and sights.
Agra: The City of the Taj Mahal
Agra, about four hours from Delhi, is home to the Taj Mahal and other Mughal masterpieces. We spent two days exploring, but the city deserves even more time.
Day 1: Iconic Monuments
- Taj Mahal: Visit at sunrise or sunset for the best light. Foreign visitors pay 1300 INR (~€15). Booking tickets in advance is recommended.
- Agra Fort: A red sandstone fortress with impressive halls like Diwan-i-Am and Diwan-i-Khas.
Day 2: Beyond the Taj
- Itimad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj): A smaller mausoleum with intricate marble inlay work.
- Mehtab Bagh: A garden across the Yamuna River, perfect for sunset views of the Taj.
Discover more about Agra in our full guide.
Jaipur: The Pink City
Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is a feast for the senses. Its palaces, forts, bustling bazaars, and delicious cuisine make it a must-see on the Golden Triangle.
Day 1: Temples and Palaces
- Hawa Mahal: Known as the Palace of Winds, this pink and red sandstone structure has 953 windows for royal women to observe street life.
- City Palace: A blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture housing museums and gardens. Entry: 700 INR (~€8).
- Jantar Mantar: An 18th-century observatory with 19 astronomical instruments. Entry: 200 INR (~€2.50).
- Jal Mahal: A Water Palace in Man Sagar Lake, best viewed from the shore.
- Hanuman Ji Temple: Known as the Monkey Temple, with playful monkeys and hilltop views.
Day 2: Majestic Forts and Cooking Classes
- Amer Fort: A UNESCO site with stunning architecture and rich history. Entry: 500 INR (~€6). We recommend walking or taking a jeep instead of elephant rides for ethical reasons.
- Nahargarh Fort: Offers panoramic city views from the Aravalli Hills. Entry: 200 INR (~€2.50).
- Jaipur Cooking Classes: Learn and taste Indian dishes like chicken tikka, butter chicken, paneer korma, biryani, naan, and kheer.
Day 3: Culture and Bollywood
- Albert Hall Museum: Explore art, paintings, and sculptures in this elegant museum.
- Bazaars: Johari Bazaar for jewelry, Bapu and Tripolia Bazaar for textiles and handicrafts. Prepare for lively crowds and vibrant streets.
- Raj Mandir Theatre: Catch a Bollywood film in a spectacular theatre. Only one film plays at a time; we watched a cheesy romantic comedy but loved the lively audience reactions.
- Masala Chowk: End your Jaipur adventure with more street food delights.
Find out more about Jaipur in our dedicated travel guide.
Getting around the Golden Triangle
Traveling between Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur is convenient with several transportation options:
🚖 Uber Intercity: Comfortable and private, costing EUR 25-40 per trip.
🚅 Train: Multiple daily departures with travel times ranging from 2-5 hours and costs from EUR 2-15. You can easily book train tickets through 12GO.
🚌 Buses and Flights: Available but less recommended for the Golden Triangle route.
Here’s an overview of travel times and costs:
| Route | Uber Intercity | Train |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi to Agra | 4-5 hours, INR 2500-3000 (~€25-30) | 2-3 hours, INR 100-1000 (~€2-12) |
| Agra to Jaipur | 4-5 hours, INR 3500-4000 (~€35-40) | 3-4 hours, INR 100-1500 (~€2-15) |
| Jaipur to Delhi | 4-5 hours, INR 3500-4000 (~€35-40) | 4-5 hours, INR 100-1500 (~€2-15) |
Final Tips for the Golden Triangle
🔒 Safety: Be mindful of your belongings and avoid isolated areas at night.
📅 Plan Ahead: Allow plenty of time to explore each city.
🚗 Transportation: Hire a private driver or join a group tour for convenience.
👗 Dress Modestly: Especially when visiting religious sites.
💵 Carry Cash: Many places do not accept credit cards.
What to do Next
After the Golden Triangle, continue your journey through Rajasthan or head to Varanasi, a holy city on the Ganges. You can reach it by night train or plane. Read our Varanasi guide for tips and experiences.
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