Golden Triangle Tour: Complete 7-Day Itinerary (Delhi, Agra & Jaipur)
Planning your first trip to India? The Golden Triangle tour is the perfect introduction to India’s rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. This complete 7-day itinerary covers Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur three iconic cities that form India’s most famous tourist circuit.
What is the Golden Triangle Tour: Complete 7-Day Itinerary?
The Golden Triangle Tour: Complete 7-Day Itinerary is one of the most popular tourist route, connecting three magnificent cities: Delhi (the capital), Agra (home of the Taj Mahal), and Jaipur (the Pink City). When plotted on a map, these cities form a triangle, hence the name.
This tour is perfect for first-time visitors because it offers:
- Incredible UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Rich Mughal and Rajput history
- Stunning palaces, forts, and monuments
- Authentic Indian culture and cuisine
- Safe, well-established tourist infrastructure
Why Choose a 7-Day Golden Triangle Itinerary?
While many travelers opt for a rushed 5-6 day tour, a 7-day Golden Triangle itinerary gives you breathing room to truly experience each city without feeling exhausted. You’ll have time to explore hidden gems, enjoy leisurely meals, and soak in the atmosphere.
Complete Golden Triangle Tour: Complete 7-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Delhi
Your Golden Triangle journey begins in Delhi, India’s vibrant capital. Upon arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport, you will be welcomed by your private driver and transferred comfortably to your hotel. The rest of the day is kept easy to help you recover from your flight and adjust to the time zone. You can relax at the hotel, take a gentle walk around the nearby area, enjoy your first Indian meal at a local restaurant, and get a good night’s sleep to overcome jet lag. Staying in Central Delhi or New Delhi is recommended for convenient access to major attractions.
Day 2: Exploring Old Delhi & New Delhi
Start your day early to experience the energy of Old Delhi, one of the most historic and lively parts of the city. Visit Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, and enjoy panoramic views from its minaret. Continue through Chandni Chowk on a traditional rickshaw ride, passing narrow lanes, spice markets, and centuries-old shops before seeing the grand Red Fort, once the residence of Mughal emperors. Your Old Delhi visit concludes at Raj Ghat, the peaceful memorial of Mahatma Gandhi.
In the afternoon, explore the highlights of New Delhi, including a drive past India Gate, a prominent war memorial. Visit Humayun’s Tomb, a masterpiece of Mughal architecture that inspired the Taj Mahal, followed by Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the tallest brick minaret in the world. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of beautifully lit monuments.
Day 3: Delhi to Agra (Journey Day)
Begin the morning with a visit to the Lotus Temple, a striking Baháʼí House of Worship known for its peaceful atmosphere and lotus-shaped design. Afterward, depart for Agra via the Yamuna Expressway, a smooth and modern highway that makes the journey comfortable and scenic. Upon arrival in Agra, check into your hotel and take time to relax. Many hotels offer rooftop views of the Taj Mahal. In the evening, visit Mehtab Bagh across the Yamuna River to enjoy a serene sunset view of the Taj Mahal, a perfect introduction before your main visit the next morning.
Day 4: The Taj Mahal & Agra Fort
Wake up early to visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise, the most magical time to experience this world-famous monument. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is a symbol of eternal love and one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture. The soft morning light and fewer crowds make this visit truly unforgettable. After spending time exploring the complex, return to your hotel for breakfast and rest.
Later, visit Agra Fort, a massive red sandstone fortress located just a short distance from the Taj Mahal. This historic fort served as a royal residence and later as the prison where Shah Jahan spent his final years overlooking the Taj. The afternoon is spent exploring its palaces, courtyards, and halls. If you wish and have the energy, you may also visit Fatehpur Sikri in the evening, a beautifully preserved abandoned Mughal city and UNESCO World Heritage Site located near Agra.
Day 5: Agra to Jaipur via Abhaneri
Depart Agra in the morning for Jaipur, breaking the journey at Abhaneri to visit the stunning Chand Baori stepwell. This 1,200-year-old architectural marvel is one of the deepest stepwells in India and is known for its perfectly symmetrical steps, making it a favorite photography spot. After your visit, continue onward to Jaipur. Upon arrival in the Pink City, check into your hotel and relax. In the evening, explore Jaipur’s lively local markets, famous for jewelry, textiles, handicrafts, and traditional Rajasthani items, followed by dinner at a local restaurant or cultural village experience.
Day 6: Jaipur – The Pink City
Begin the day with a visit to Amber Fort, a magnificent hilltop fortress overlooking Maota Lake. Known for its artistic Hindu-Mughal architecture, the fort offers stunning views and beautifully decorated halls, including the famous Mirror Palace. After returning to the city, stop at Jal Mahal, the Water Palace, which appears to float in the middle of Man Sagar Lake.
In the afternoon, explore the City Palace, still home to Jaipur’s royal family and a blend of Rajput and Mughal design. Next, visit Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO-listed astronomical observatory featuring impressive stone instruments. Continue to Hawa Mahal, the iconic Palace of Winds, built for royal women to observe street life unseen. In the evening, visit Albert Hall Museum, especially beautiful at sunset when illuminated, or enjoy an optional Bollywood movie experience at the famous Raj Mandir Cinema.
Day 7: Jaipur to Delhi (Departure)
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Jaipur with time for breakfast, last-minute shopping, or visiting any missed attractions. You may also choose to unwind with a traditional Rajasthani massage. In the afternoon, your private driver will take you back to Delhi via a comfortable highway drive. Depending on your flight schedule, you will either be transferred directly to the airport for departure or stay overnight in Delhi if your flight is the following day.
What’s Included in a Golden Triangle Tour: Complete 7-Day Itinerary?
When you book with India Custom Tours, your 7-day Golden Triangle package includes:
- Private air-conditioned car with experienced driver
- English-speaking driver throughout the tour
- All fuel, tolls, parking fees, and driver expenses
- Hotel pickups and drop-offs
- Bottled water in the vehicle
- Flexible itinerary (customize as you wish)
Not Included:
- Accommodation (we can arrange or you can book independently)
- Monument entrance fees
- Meals
- Licensed tour guide fees (optional, highly recommended)
- Personal expenses