Golden Triangle India: Your Complete Travel Guide

Did you know the Golden Triangle welcomes over a million tourists every year? It’s the classic intro to India because the three cities are easy to link, packed with history, and full of unforgettable experiences.

Why the Golden Triangle is a Must‑See

Delhi kicks off the trip with bustling markets, huge monuments and a taste of modern India. A short drive or train ride takes you to Agra, home of the Taj Mahal—one of the world’s most photographed sites. Finish in Jaipur, the Pink City, where forts, palaces and colorful bazaars showcase royal Rajasthan. Together they give you a snapshot of India’s past and present without endless travel.

Plan Your 3‑Day Itinerary

Day 1 – Delhi: Start early at the Red Fort, then wander through Chandni Chowk for street‑food snacks. In the afternoon, visit Jama Masjid and finish with a sunset view from India Gate. Overnight in a budget hotel near Paharganj or a mid‑range stay in Connaught Place.

Day 2 – Agra: Take the Gatimaan Express or a comfortable bus to Agra (about 2‑3 hours). Beat the crowds by reaching Taj Mahal at sunrise, then head to Agra Fort for a quick tour. Grab a plate of petha and a glass of fresh lassi before catching an evening train to Jaipur.

Day 3 – Jaipur: Begin at Amber Fort—take the elephant ride or the cable car for a stunning view. Next, explore the City Palace and Jantar Mantar. End the day strolling down Johri Bazaar for jewelry and the famous Rajasthani sweets. If you have a late flight, the airport is just 13 km from the city centre.

All three legs are well‑served by trains, buses and private taxis, so pick what fits your budget and comfort level. Booking tickets online a few weeks ahead usually secures the best prices.

Best time to visit: October to March offers pleasant weather across the three cities. Summer can be scorching, especially in Jaipur, while the monsoon brings occasional delays.

Budget tips: Hostel beds in Delhi start at ₹500 per night, while decent hotels in Agra and Jaipur run ₹1,200‑₹2,500. Street food meals cost under ₹150, and a three‑city rail pass can save up to 30 % compared to buying separate tickets.

Food must‑tries: In Delhi, don’t miss butter chicken and chaat. Agra is famous for its Mughlai kebabs and petha sweets. Jaipur offers dal‑baati‑churma and spicy Rajasthani thalis. All dishes are easy to find at reputable eateries, but carry a few sanitizer wipes for peace of mind.

Safety quick‑check: Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded spots, use bottled water, and carry a copy of your ID. Night travel between the cities is safe on trains, but taxis should be booked through trusted apps.

With this simple plan, you’ll cover the highlights of the Golden Triangle without feeling rushed. Adjust the pace if you have extra days—each city deserves a deeper look, but three days give you a solid taste of India’s iconic route.