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Golden Triangle tour of India: Immerse in the rich heritage of Delhi, Agra & Jaipur

Updated on Dec 20, 2024 | Online Indian Visa

Planning for a vacation that's filled with history combined with great cultural experience? Head to India, famous around the world for The Taj Mahal in Agra (in the list of Seven Wonders of the World). To ensure that you have a comfortable and stress-free vacation experience to visit the historical wonders of India, take the Golden Triangle Tour Package of India, otherwise you can explore at your own pace as well. But wait! Don’t forget to apply for the Indian eTourist Visa, if you are a traveler belonging to one of the countries that’s included in the Indian eVisa list.

Before we explain about the tour, here’s a brief guide about the eVisa and its types, that will allow a smooth entry into the nation.

So, the Indian eVisa is an electronic visa offered by the immigration department of India to 170+ countries around the world for a convenient entry. The various categories of Indian eVisa are business, tourism, conference, and medical. Since you are traveling to India for the Golden Triangle Tour and other important places of India, you have to choose the Indian eTourist Visa.

In the Golden Triangle Tour of India, your trip starts in Delhi, so the International Airport to book your flight tickets is Indira Gandhi International Airport.

Wondering, what’s so great about the Golden Triangle Tour India? Why should you opt for this tour?

The Golden Triangle Tour of India is an enchanting experience for the tourists in India and around the world to explore the magnificent forts and palaces. The tour includes beautiful places, with each city having its own fascinating history, lively culture and overwhelming architectural wonders.

As the name suggests Golden Triangle of India, which includes Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, it forms a triangle, with your trip starting from Delhi, then Agra and moving towards west in Jaipur. Distance of these places: Delhi to Agra it is 242.9 km, Delhi to Jaipur: 314.8 km

Number of days required: If you choose the Golden Triangle Tour Package, minimum days required are 3 days and 4 nights or 6 days, 7 nights, depending on the sightseeing places chosen. And if you travel to choose on your own you can choose to keep the number of days according to your preference.

Are you geared up to have a classical tour of India, the Golden Triangle Tour?

With endless historical wonders to explore, the Golden Triangle Tour of India, carries you to the time of the Mughals and the splendor of the Rajputanas in Jaipur. As the highlight of India, this tourist circuit is the most preferred, find out what’s waiting for you.

Engross yourself in the glory of Delhi, explore its beautiful places

Since your Golden Triangle trip starts in Delhi, take a flight to Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, the capital of India. Here you will be able to explore the architectural wonders of the past, perched in between modernity, check the best places you can visit:

Red fort

The Red Fort of India was built by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan during the 17th century, and was the residence of the Mughals. The architectural design of the fort is Mughal style and is made of red sandstone, intricate marble works and great geometric layouts. Due to its splendid architectural style, it is listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site and represents the rich history and cultural heritage of India.

How to reach the Red Fort?

  • By metro: If coming by metro, Lal Qila station is the nearest metro station, from here you simply have to walk a few steps to reach.
  • By road: Tourists can take a cab or auto-rickshaw directly to Red Fort.

Entrance Fees:

  • Entry fees for Foreigner: INR 550/-
  • Entry fees for Indian: INR 35/-

Opening Days: Opened from 9.30 AM to 4.30 PM (Tuesday to Sunday)

Closing Day: Monday

Qutub Minar

The Qutub Minar was built by Qutbub-Ud-Din-Aibak in the 12 century and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the tallest minaret in the world (five-storey minaret) and is made of brick.

How to reach Qutub Minar?

  • By metro: Qutub Minar Metro Station is the closest station located on the Yellow Line, from the station you can choose to walk (around 2 km) or take a shared battery auto to the monument, it will cost INR 10/- only.
  • By road: To reach Qutub Minar, you can take a taxi, auto-rickshaws or government buses from different locations of Delhi.

Opening Time and Days: Opened daily for visitors from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Entrance Fees:

  • Entry fees for Foreigners: INR 600/-
  • Entry fees for Indians: INR 40/-
  • Entrance Charges for Children below 15 years: Free entry

Jama masjid

The Jama Masjid is the largest mosque in India with an amazing Mughal architectural design with intricate carvings, and made of red sandstone. It was built between 1650 and 1656 by Shah Jahan and at that time approx one million rupees was spent to build the structure.

How to reach Jama Masjid?

  • By metro: Jama Masjid is situated near Chandni Chowk metro station, from the station just take a short walk.
  • By road: Tourists can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw or government buses to reach Red Fort from different locations of Delhi.

Opening Time: Daily opened from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM to 6:30 PM

Entry Fee: Free, but if you have a camera and wish to take photos, the fee is INR 300/-

India Gate

The India Gate is a war memorial monument for the soldiers who have sacrificed their life for the nation, and stands as a symbol of patriotism. This monument was uniquely designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, comprises an arch and canopy, beneath the arch is an eternal flame which keeps on burning.

How to reach India Gate?

  • By road: To reach India Gate, you can take a taxi, auto-rickshaws or government buses from different locations of Delhi.
  • By metro: If coming by metro, Central Secretariat metro station is the closest metro station, from here you can opt for a walk to India Gate.

Opening Time: Opened 24 hours (best time to visit is before sunset)

Entry Fee: Free

Lotus temple

As the name suggests, it is in the shape of a lotus flower, and is a complete white monument which symbolizes unity of four religions. It is a Bahai House of Worship and people from different communities and religions are welcomed to pray and meditate here. Once you enter inside the monument you are not allowed to speak or make any sound, complete pin-drop silence.

How to reach Lotus temple?

  • By road: To reach Lotus temple, you can take a taxi, auto-rickshaws or government buses from different locations of Delhi.
  • By metro: The nearest metro station to Lotus temple is Nehru Place metro station which is situated at a distance of 1.1 km, you can either choose to walk or take a battery auto.

Opening Time: Opened from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Tuesday to Sunday

Closing Days: Mondays

Entry Fee: Free

Akshardham temple

This is a newly built temple and is one of the largest Hindu temples constructed with splendid architectural style. It is for the followers of Swaminarayan believers, a place for them to worship. The temple is famous for its magnificent stone carvings and dome and a beautiful courtyard.

How to reach Akshardham temple?

  • By road: To reach Akshardham temple, you can take a taxi, auto-rickshaws or government buses from different locations of Delhi.
  • By metro: Akshardham metro station is the closest metro station, from here you have to walk a few steps to Akshardham Temple.

Opening Time: Opened from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM, Tuesday to Sunday

Closing Days: Mondays

Entry Fee:

  • Entry Fee to the Temple: Free, extra charges for exhibitions and shows
  • Exhibitions Fee: INR 170/- for adults, INR 125/- for senior citizens, INR 100/- for children
  • Water Show Fee: INR 80/- for adults, INR 80/- for senior citizens, INR 50/- for children

Chandni Chowk Market

Chandni Chowk market existed from the Mughal era, and is in fact the oldest market located in Old Delhi. Here shopping lovers can buy garments, traditional attires, spices, jewelry and electronic items. After shopping, you can eat at some of the popular street food stalls like the paranthe in the paranthe wali gali which dates back to 1882.

How to reach Chandni Chowk?

  • By road: To reach Chandni Chowk market, you can take a taxi, auto-rickshaws or government buses from different locations of Delhi.
  • By metro: The nearest metro station is Chandni Chowk metro station, the market starts from where you exit from the Chandni Chowk market side gate.

Opening Time: Opened from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Monday to Saturday)

Closed Days: Sundays

Entry Fee: Free

Drive through Delhi’s official buildings

Take an auto or taxi to drive around Delhi's official buildings where the country’s administration, governance and justice takes place. Take a glimpse of the Rashtrapati Bhawan, and Parliament House built during the British era and other modern buildings like the Supreme Court and High Court.

Other popular places to visit in Delhi

If you are staying in Delhi for more than 2-days other historical places you can visit include the Humayun Tomb, Lodhi Garden, Hauz Khas Village etc, if time permits.

Discover Agra: A Journey into Mughal Grandeur and Heritage

After exploring Delhi on your Golden Triangle trip, head to Agra which is famous around the world for its unique Mughal architectural buildings. You can take a bus, train or taxi from Delhi to Agra to witness its splendor and uncover the secrets, here the places you can opt for:

Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is renowned around the world for its architectural wonder, thus is in the list of the Seven Wonders of the World and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This one of the wonders of the world monument was built by Shahjahan for his wife Mumtaz after she passed away. The Taj Mahal is a white monument made of white marble with intricate marble work and has domes, minarets and well-planned geometrical gardens.

How to Reach Taj Mahal?

  • By Train: The Agra Cantt railway station is the closest station, which is situated at a distance of 6 km away from the Taj Mahal, from here take an auto-rickshaw or taxi.
  • By Road: If you are coming by a hired taxi via the Yamuna Expressway from Delhi, approx. 230 km away and will take around 3-4 hours to reach.
  • By Air: Kheria Airport in Agra is the closest airport to Taj Mahal, situated at a distance of 13 km away from the Taj Mahal, from here take an auto-rickshaw or taxi.

Opening Time:

  • Opened daily from 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM (Saturday to Thursday).

Full moon night viewing: Opened from 8:30 PM to 12:30 AM, 2-days before and after full moon

Closing Days: Fridays

Entrance Charges:

  • Entrance Charges for Foreigners: INR 1100/- (includes entry to the main mausoleum)
  • Entrance Charges for Indians: INR 50/-
  • Entrance Charges for SAARC/BIMSTEC countries: INR 540/-
  • Entrance Charges for Children below 15 years: Free entry

Agra Fort

Agra Fort was built by Mughal Emperor Akbar and comprises majestic gates, palaces, gardens and mosques and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was the residence of the Mughals for generations and during the Mughal era, it was the base for administration and governance.

How to Reach Agra Fort?

  • Agra Fort is located around 3 km from the Taj Mahal, you can easily reach by taking an auto-rickshaw, taxi, or battery auto from Taj Mahal.

Opening Time: Opened on daily basis from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Entrance Charges:

  • Entrance Charges for Foreigners: INR 650/-
  • Entrance Charges for Children below 15 years: Free entry
  • Entrance Charges for Indians: INR 50/-
  • Entrance Charges for SAARC/BIMSTEC countries: INR 90/-

Akbar's Tomb, Sikandra

The tomb of Akbar is located near Sikandra in Agra which is around 10 km away from the main city. The tomb is located in between lush green gardens and is another fine example of splendid architectural design of the Mughal era, built with red sandstone. Also, the garden is home to some deers and peacocks, which adds to the aura of the place.

How to Reach Sikandra in Agra?

  • The Akbar’s Tomb is situated at a distance of 10 km away from the main commercial hub of Agra. You can reach Akbar’s Tomb by taking a taxi or auto-rickshaw which will cost around INR 200.

Opening Time and Days: Opened on daily basis from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Entrance Charges:

  • Entrance Charges for Foreigners: INR 310/-
  • Entrance Charges for Indians: INR 30/-
  • Entrance Charges for SAARC/BIMSTEC countries: INR 90/-
  • Entrance Charges for Children below 15 years: Free entry

Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb

Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb is the tomb of Nur Jahan’s father Mirza Ghiyas Beg. Nur Jahan built it for her father, it is located on the riverside of Yamuna River on the eastern side.The tomb is built with red sandstone and comprises intricate marble work.

How to Reach Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb?

  • Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb is situated at a distance of 4 km away from Agra Fort, tourists can visit this monument by taking an auto-rickshaw or taxi.

Opening Time and Days: Opened on daily basis from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Entrance Charges:

  • Entrance Charges for Foreigners: INR 310/-
  • Entrance Charges for Indians: INR 30/-
  • Entrance Charges for Children below 15 years: Free entry
  • Entrance Charges for SAARC/BIMSTEC countries: INR 90/-

Fatehpur Sikri

Fatehpur Sikri was built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in the 16th century, and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, due to its spectacular architectural design. For a short timeframe, Akbar kept it as the capital of the Mughal empire, but was shifted back to Agra due to shortage of water which made living here difficult. The Fatehpur Sikri complex consists of the majestic Buland Darwaza, beautiful palaces, mosques, well-planned courtyards, Jama Masjid, and the tomb of the Sufi saint, Salim Chishti.

How to reach Fatehpur Sikri?

  • It is situated around 40 km away from Agra, for a comfortable pick and drop service, tourists can take a taxi. Those who want to travel by train, the nearest railway station is Fatehpur Sikri Station, from here take a taxi or auto to reach.
  • Also, for entry into the Fatehpur Sikri complex, you have to pay extra for the taxi to be taken near the gate of the complex. Pay for it and take it near the complex gate and avoid parking at the 1st gate entry, as you will have to walk more than one km.

Opening Time and Days: Opened on daily basis from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Entrance Charges:

  • Entrance Charges for Foreigners: INR 610/-
  • Entrance Charges for Indians: INR 50/-
  • Entrance Charges for Children below 15 years: Free entry
  • Entrance Charges for SAARC/BIMSTEC countries: INR 50/-

Step into Jaipur: A Royal Journey Through Rajasthan's Pink City

The Golden Triangle trip ends with a trip to Jaipur, which is the capital of Rajasthan, where you can have a completely different royal tour experience. Travelers will love to enjoy a royal trip, exploring the majestic forts and palaces, and indulging yourself in the vibrancy of the atmosphere.

City Palace

City Palace in Jaipur was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, and the complex comprises Mubarak Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas and a museum which houses some of the important collections like paintings, weapons, textiles and artifacts. Some parts of the palace are opened to the tourists to explore while the rest of the palace is used by the royal family for residential purposes.

How to Reach City Palace in Jaipur?

  • By Air: The nearest airport to Jaipur is Jaipur International Airport which is situated around 12 km away from City Palace.
  • By Train: Jaipur Junction is the closest, situated around 5 km away, from here take a taxi or auto-rickshaw to City Palace.
  • By Road: The nearest railway station is located in the main hub of Jaipur, you can easily reach by taking a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or local bus.

Opening Time for Visitors: Opened daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM

Entrance Charges:

  • Entrance Chargesfor Indians: INR 200/- (adults), INR 100/- (students)
  • Entrance Charges for Foreigners: INR 700/- (adults), INR 400/- (students)
  • Additional charges: If you visit the museum and other sections of the palace like the Chandra Mahal.

Hawa Mahal

The Hawa Mahal, as the name suggests, means the Palace of Winds and comprises 900 windows on the front-side and is a five-storey building. It was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, which was the summer retreating area for the royal family women, so that they are able to have a glimpse of the street and its bustling activities without being seen.

How to Reach Hawa Mahal in Jaipur?

  • Hawa Mahal is located around 2 km from City Palace, when visiting the City Palace, you can easily reach by foot, auto-rickshaw, or taxi.

Opening Time: Opened daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Entrance Charges:

  • Entrance Charges for Foreigners: INR 200/-
  • Entrance Charges for Indians: INR 50/-
  • Entrance Charges for Students (with ID): INR 25/- (Indians), INR 100/- (Foreigners)

Amer Fort

The Amer Fort is situated at a hilltop around 11 km away from the main Jaipur city. The fort was built in the 16th century by Maharaja Man Singh I, and comprises stunning palaces, majestic gates, fascinating temples, chambers, courtyards and gardens. The highlights of the fort are the Diwan-i-Khas and Sheesh Mahal which are made of mirrors with extraordinary decorative elements, and stunning paintings on the wall.

How to Reach Amer Fort in Jaipur?

  • By Road: Amer Fort is located around 11 km from the main hub of Jaipur, you have to take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or bus to reach.
  • By Train: Jaipur Junction is the closest station, from here tourists will have to take a taxi or bus to Amer Fort.

Opening Time: Opened daily from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM

Entrance Charges:

  • Entrance Charges for Foreigners: INR 500/-
  • Entrance Charges for Students (with ID): INR 10/- (Indians), INR 100/- (Foreigners)
  • Entrance Charges for Indians: INR 100/-

Additional Tips for your Jaipur trip

Light and sound show: Tourists can attend the light and sound show in Amer Fort, during evening time and you will have to pay extra for the show.

Best time to explore Jaipur: Early morning or late afternoon are the best time to explore the city to avoid the heat, especially for outdoor sites like Amer Fort.

Have you decided to visit India? What’s next?

Do apply for the Indian eTourist Visa in advance, so that your Golden Triangle Trip to India that covers Delhi, Agra and Jaipur is successful and lets you explore its iconic places, and know about the rich culture and heritage of the region.

Tip to choose the best mode to visit the Golden Triangle of India

  • Trains and buses are the cheapest mode to travel, if you have a tight budget.
  • But otherwise for a comfortable tour experience you can hire a taxi to visit the different places.
  • Another best option is to opt for the Golden Triangle Tour package from renowned tour operators.

Check your eligibility for Online Indian Visa and apply at least a week before your scheduled trip to India. Citizens of many countries including Australian citizens, Costa Rican citizens, Korean citizens, Bulgarian citizens and French citizens are eligible for India e-Visa.