The Golden Triangle
Discover palaces, temples and monuments to rival any on earth in the Golden Triangle
India is a mystical land whose civilisations can be traced back to at least 2500 BC. Such a rich history has spawned palaces, temples and monuments to rival any on earth, many of which are shown off in the Golden Triangle of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.
From grand vestiges of the British Raj to battle-scarred forts rising from forlorn country fields, history buffs will be spoilt for choice.
This private tour is a great introduction to northern India and the Golden Triangle. Your India tailor-made travel specialist will be happy to tweak any aspect to ensure it’s the perfect holiday for you, so feel free to suggest your own itinerary.
3 nights Delhi • 2 nights Agra • 2 nights Jaipur
Days 1-2: Delhi
After arrival on the first day, start the next with a cycle rickshaw ride through Old Delhi. Old Delhi was an ancient walled city. Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan in 1650 switched the Mughal capital from Agra to Delhi. Shah Jehan possessing an exquisite talent, especially in architecture, created the seventh city and in the process brought about Delhi’s glorious renaissance. Here you will see Red Fort, the most opulent fort and palace of the Mughal Empire.
Enjoy your lunch at one of the Delhi’s fine restaurants (on own). After lunch venture back into the city. This time visit New Delhi.
New Delhi was designed and built by the British in the 1920s - it’s a city of wide boulevards impressive Government buildings, green parks and gardens. In 1911 King George V announced the transfer of the capital from Calcutta to Delhi. The King’s architects, Lutyens and Baker, set in motion the design and construction of Delhi’s eighth city - New Delhi. You will visit two monuments from Delhi’s past - Humayun’s Tomb and Qutub Minar. Your drive takes you along the ceremonial avenue, Rajghat, past the imposing India Gate and Parliament House.
Stay Superior: The Claridges (B)
Stay Deluxe: The Oberoi (B)
Days 3-4: Agra (125 miles)
At the time of the Mughals, in the 16th & 17th centuries, Agra was the capital of the grand Mughal Empire. During this period the city became a leading centre of art, science, commerce and culture. The short golden age of Agra came to an end with the 17th century reign of Shah Jehan, mastermind of the unforgettable Taj Mahal.
After breakfast the following day, proceed to Agra city including a visit to the famous monument to love, the Taj Mahal (closed on Fridays) and then onto Agra Fort.
Construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1631, and is believed to have taken 22 years to complete, with more than 20,000 craftsmen working around the clock. The design and construction is said to be that of the legendary architect, Ustad Ahamad Lahore. King Akbar, a king at 14, began consolidating his empire and, as an assertion of his power built the Agra fort between 1565 and 1571, surrounded by a 70-foot high wall and retains the irregular outline of the demolished mud-wall fort of the Lodis. The magnificent towers, bastions and ramparts and majestic gateways symbolized the confidence and power of the third Mughal emperor, Akbar.
Stay Superior: ITC Mughal (B)
Stay Deluxe: Oberoi Amarvillas (B)
Days 5-6: Jaipur (143 miles)
Known as the Pink City, Jaipur is the capital of the colourful state of Rajasthan. It has the distinction of being a well planned and laid out city. As you drive through the old part of town, you will witness a life most unlike others. Witness how the city blooms during the day in a kaleidoscope of colour and sound.
On the next day, depart the hotel for a half-day excursion to Amber Fort. 11 km from Jaipur, Amber Fort is a marvellous example of Rajput architecture with its terraces and ramparts reflected in the Maota Lake below. Enjoy lunch at a city restaurant or at your hotel (on own). After lunch venture back into the city, this time on a city tour. This afternoon you will visit the City Palace Museum where you can see an imposing blend of traditional Rajasthani and Mughal Art. Return to the Hotel for rest and relax for few hours. Later, witness the Sound and Light show at the Amber Fort in Jaipur.
Stay Superior: Samode Haveli (B)
Stay Deluxe: The Oberoi Rajvilas (B)
Days 7: Delhi (Gurgaon)
After breakfast depart Jaipur for Delhi. Upon arrival check into the hotel in the buzzing Gurgaon district of Delhi, only 10 minutes from the international airport.
Stay Superior: Crowne Plaza (B)
Stay Deluxe: Oberoi Gurgaon (B)
Day 8 Delhi
The next day you will be transferred to Delhi airport for your flight to the UK.
The Golden Triangle itinerary map
To book, call 0845 643 6562
To book this travel offer, call one of our tailor-made travel experts now, quoting reference WEX101836.
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