LUXURY TOUR OF GOLDEN TRIANGLE

Humayun's Tomb

Overview

India’s Golden Triangle consists of three amazing destinations: Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. It makes a fantastic introduction for the first-time visitor wanting to dip their toes into India, representing an amazing array of culture, heritage and kaleidoscopic colours!

Begin by discovering the sights of the capital, Delhi, with its bustling souk-like bazaars, crumbling Mughal remains and colonial charm. Continue to Agra to marvel at the Taj Mahal, before heading to the colourful Pink City of Jaipur in Rajasthan, where you’ll soak up splendid architecture, bright Indian saris, decorated elephants and rich, romantic history.

As specialists in private tours of this region, luxury tours of India’s Golden Triangle are something we do best. The one we’re about to describe here is merely a starting point to share a flavour of the possibilities. It can be tweaked or completely transformed into your ideal luxury Golden Triangle tour. From the length to the sights to the luxury hotels, every detail will be designed around you to suit your tastes, schedule and budget.

ITINERARY

DAY 1 ARRIVE IN DELHI (STAY AT THE IMPERIAL, DELHI)

Your luxury Golden Triangle tour of India kicks off on your arrival in Delhi, where a member of our team will welcome you at the airport. From here, you’ll be chauffeured to the Imperial hotel. Centrally located in the heart of New Delhi, this landmark hotel was built in 1934 and designed by Lutyen’s assistant, Bromfield. It evokes the days of the British Raj and exudes style and elegance. Take it easy this afternoon to relax, settle in, and recuperate from your international journey. If you’re arriving early on and would like to begin exploring today, that can be discussed. For a truly exceptional experience, we’d recommend upgrading to the The The Oberoi New Delhi

A guided tour of both Old and New Delhi today will introduce you to highlights, including the Jama Masjid and Chandni Chowk; India Gate, the Sikh Temple, Humayun’s Tomb and Qutab Minar. There are lots to see and do in Delhi, and this is merely a suggestion. The sights are flexible on the day if you’d like to add, remove or replace. You’ll return to the Imperial in the evening, though your chauffeur remains available if you’d like to dine out (we’d recommend the award-winning Indian Accent or Bukhara).

This morning you’ll proceed to the next stop on your luxury Golden Triangle tour – Agra, home of the magnificent Taj Mahal – for an overnight stay at the Taj Hotel & Convention Centre. After having had the chance to freshen up over lunch, you’ll be met by your guide to explore Agra Fort before ending the day at the Taj Mahal. Sunset is a beautiful time to visit with the marble taking on an orange hue. Back at the Tajview hotel this evening, your Superior Room affords a wonderful view of the monument. Without the restriction of visiting hours, you can catch the Taj Mahal glittering in the moonlight after dark or a peachy pink at dawn. For a truly exceptional experience, we’d recommend upgrading to the Oberoi Amarvilas where every room affords a splendid view of the Taj Mahal.

This morning brings an optional sunrise return to the Taj Mahal. After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll later be chauffeured to Jaipur, with the option of stopping en-route at your choice of Fatehpur Sikri (a 16th-century Mughal fort-palace built by Emperor Akbar and abandoned after just 14 years) or Chand Baori (an impressive stepwell in the small village of Abhaneri, dating back over a thousand years).

When arriving in Jaipur later today, you’ll be assisted with checking in to Samode Haveli for a three-night stay. This charming haveli exudes local character and, at over 175 years old, it offers the opportunity to experience one of India’s charming heritage hotels. Samode Haveli is well located too, in the centre of the Pink City. It’s ideal for those who’d like to be in the heart of the action (you may like to read about our own recent stay by clicking here). For a truly royal experience, ask to upgrade to the Taj Rambagh Palace – a former Indian palace. Here you can unleash your inner Maharaja or Maharani at one of the most luxurious hotels in India’s golden triangle. Those who’re seeking more understated luxury would be happier at the Oberoi Rajvilas, while the SUJÁN Rajmahal Palace is a boutique-lovers delight.

Optionally, with an early start this morning you’ll head to the markets with your guide to experience the flurry of activity here as the Pink City wakes up. Stops would include the fragrant flower market, the wholesale milk market, the vegetable market, and the Govind Dev Ji temple, finished off with a delicious cup of chai from the famous but inconspicuous Sahu Chai shop. There’ll be the opportunity to return to the hotel for breakfast and a little time at rest, after which you’ll reunite with your guide to explore the old walled area of Jaipur. This includes the City Palace and its little-known private rooms, the Jantar Mantar observatory and the elegant Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds).

The morning is yours at leisure to do your own thing. Possible additions could include a morning’s hot air balloon ride with Skywaltz or a private block-printing workshop at the nearby village of Bagru. You’ll later be reunited with your guide to explore the 16th-century Amber Fort and the enchanting Jal Mahal. Continue to Dera Amer to spend a memorable evening with elephants. If meeting elephants isn’t your cup of tea, this can certainly be removed or replaced. Perhaps with a private cooking class or a special dinner recommendation. For those who are interested in spending time with elephants, Dera Amer is a fantastic and ethical place to do it).

Like yesterday, the morning’s at your leisure in Jaipur to relax and enjoy the hotel or further explore at your own pace. As always, your chauffeur remains on hand to take you anywhere you may like to go. You might like to take this opportunity to browse for interesting souvenirs in Jaipur’s famous markets and emporiums. When it comes to shopping, Jaipur has something for everyone: from elegant textiles to kitschy wooden camels, even the most frugal visitor is likely to leave the Pink City with one or two pieces tucked in their case! For a souvenir with local fair, we’d recommend a piece of semi-precious jewellery or blue pottery.

Your luxury Golden Triangle tour then brings you back to Delhi for a last night’s stay. We recommend the Trident, Gurgaon – though somewhat lacking in character, it’s conveniently located just a fifteen-minute drive from the terminal; ideal for early morning departures and for avoiding the Delhi traffic. Alternatively, if your flight is departing in the evening, you may prefer to head straight to the airport – or, if you have more time in Delhi, something centrally located (such as the Imperial we began at) would be more appropriate.

To end your time in India on a truly relaxed note and to experience the slow pace of life in rural Rajasthan, you may like to consider slotting in a night or two at the beautiful Samode Palace on the way back to Delhi. Dating back over 150 years, the Samode Palace is nestled within quaint villages and stunning natural landscapes, making it an ideal spot to relax and recharge your batteries before heading back home.

This morning you’ll be chauffeured back to Delhi airport in time for your onward flight.

Tour Includes:

  • AC Car with proficient driver
  • An accompanying proficient English Speaking guide for entire tour
  • A Mixed of Walking Tour
  • Water bottle for guest

Note: Monument entrance fee can be paid directly at the monument.

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Hello, I’m Kamal Kishor

We believe that the best holidays are those that are tailored to your dreams and your budget. Our team of specialists led by Kamal Kishor has over 15 years experience in creating (comfortable) custom and holiday packages for families, couples, professional Read More

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