Looking to plan a Golden Triangle India itinerary? The fabulous historic cities of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur – known as India’s Golden Triangle – are the perfect introduction to India!
North India is a great place to start and the highlights of the Golden Triangle make it the most popular part of the country for visitors.
Here is everything you need to know to plan an epic 1 Week Golden Triangle India Itinerary including where to stay, how to get around between the cities and the best of highlights in Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.
- About India’s Golden Triangle
- Which direction best for the Golden Triangle itinerary?
– Clockwise or anti-clockwise? - What is the best time of year for the Golden Triangle India itinerary?
- Transport
- Highlights
- Start point (and why)
- #1 GOLDEN TRIANGLE INTINERARY
– Summary
– Detailed Itinerary - #2 GOLDEN TRIANGLE INTINERARY
– Summary
– Detailed Itinerary - Longer than one week in India?
- Accommodation for the Golden Triangle itinerary
About India’s famous Golden Triangle itinerary
The Golden Triangle is a popular tourist circuit in north India comprising of the three cities, New Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. It is the most common first destination for travellers to India and a fantastic place to start.
Which direction is the best itinerary for the Golden Triangle?
Most people start in New Delhi and head first to Agra and then to Jaipur, traveling in a clockwise direction. But it doesn’t really matter which direction you travel around the Golden Triangle. There are many transportation options to choose from to get between each destination.
We are going to show you two options for one week in India to cover the Golden Triangle in either direction – clockwise or anti-clockwise – and including a detailed itinerary for each of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.
While the sites and day tours in each of the cities is largely the same in both directions, the mode of transport and time of travel between the cities makes a difference to your itinerary with just one week in India.
The first Golden Triangle itinerary below details the itinerary in clockwise order, from:
- New Delhi
- Agra
- Jaipur
- New Delhi
However, if the days and travel times of the clockwise Golden Triangle itinerary don’t suit we have included transport options by train in the other direction in a second anti-clockwise itinerary. Note that the Taj Mahal is not open on Fridays.
The second Golden Triangle itinerary below details the itinerary in anti-clockwise order, from:
- New Delhi
- Jaipur
- Agra
- New Delhi
The distance between Delhi and Agra is 233 km, Agra and Jaipur is 237 km, and Jaipur and Delhi is 273 km.
What is the best mode of transport between and around Delhi, Agra and Jaipur?
The Golden Triangle itinerary is well connected by road and rail. It is easy to book a driver and car to stay with you for a week and transport you between the cities.
However, we really recommend traveling independently by train. In each destination it is easy – and fun – to get around by auto rickshaw. And not only are rickshaws an authentic way to experience the Golden Triangle, but travel by train is an exciting way to get around India.
We have listed all the details how to travel by train including which train and class to book and how to buy tickets.
Highlights – 1 Week Golden Triangle India itinerary
There is so much of India to share!
Enjoy the buzz and colours of Old Delhi, the bazars and markets and the iconic sites of the Mughal Empire. Sleep underneath the stars on camel safari in the desert of Rajasthan. And share in the love story of the Taj Mahal and learn the history of Rajasthan’s many forts…
- Take a rickshaw in Jaipur
- Ride the famous Indian trains
- Get caught in the colours and chaos of Delhi
- See Jaipur’s beautifully iconic pink Wind Palace
- Stay in a traditional Haveli
- Visit Rajasthan’s most famous Amber Fort
- Try Indian chai the traditional way
- Experience sunrise at the wondrous TAJ MAHAL
- Shop for souvenirs in Old Delhi’s Main Bazaar
What is the best time of year to visit India for this Golden Triangle itinerary?
There are pros and cons to travel on the Golden Triangle itinerary at different times of the year in India.
The summer from May and June can be unbearably hot in Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. But the summer months have clear skies and this is the quietest tourist season to travel. The rainy season in July and August is notoriously wet with rainfall from the monsoon season and still high temperatures following the summer.
Essentially the best time to visit India is during the cooler months, typically from October to March when the temperature is pleasant and the chance of rain is much less. However, this is also the tourist season and the crowds will be larger at the key sites like the Taj Mahal in Agra and Amber Fort in Jaipur.
- May – June: This is the summer with high temperatures during the days and nights often reaching 40°C/104°F.
- July – August: This is the monsoon season with high rainfall in July.
- November – February: The winter months have a comfortable daytime temperature but with cool evenings and cold overnights, though this is the busiest and most crowded tourist season.
- Mid-September – October and March – April: This is a good time of year to travel in India in the shoulder seasons with pleasant temperatures and lesser crowds.
Challenges of travel in the Golden Triangle during different seasons
Although winter is touted as the best month to travel in India and especially for a first time, there are challenges to the winter months in India too. The main disadvantage of travel from November to March is the smog. Unfortunately, Delhi is especially polluted as one of India’s largest cities. For farmers it is the burning season for crops in November in Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh and coupled with the pollution in the cities there can often – and daily – be high levels of polluted air.
We have traveled in the Golden Triangle at all times of year including in the high of summer, the monsoon season and in the colder, smoggier winter months. And the truth is that whatever time of year you are there you will find pros and cons to the weather.
Where to start?
Most travellers begin and end their trip in Delhi because of the large, international airport there. It is easy to find flights to Delhi from all over the world.
Summary #1 – Clockwise – 1 Week Golden Triangle India Itinerary
See the complete adventure detailed below. But first, in summary…
- Day 1 – Delhi – Arrival
- Day 2 – Delhi – Rickshaw tour of Old Delhi
- Day 3 – Agra – Train to Agra; Rickshaw tour of Agra
- Day 4 – Agra to Jaipur – Taj Mahal; Train to Jaipur
- Day 5 – Jaipur – Rickshaw tour of Jaipur
- Day 6 – Jaipur to Delhi – Train to Delhi; Rickshaw tour of New Delhi
- Day 7 – Delhi – Departure
Detailed #1 Itinerary – Clockwise – 1 Week in India’s Golden Triangle
Read on for the full details.
Day 1 – Delhi – Arrival in Delhi
Welcome to India! Arriving in New Delhi is an adventure on its own. Take a taxi to your hotel and get settled in.
Depending on what time of day you arrive in India and where you are in Delhi you can head out for a first taste of Indian cuisine in India or take it easy and start today with dinner in your hotel and get ready for a full day of exploring tomorrow.
- Read our travel guide to India including all about arriving at New Delhi International Airport, getting a SIM card for India, managing, exchanging and withdrawing money in India and the top things to do in Delhi.
- Travel by taxi from the airport on arrival to your accommodation in Delhi.
- Stay overnight in hotel, Delhi.
Day 2 – Delhi – Tour of Old Delhi and Sarojini Market
Take a day tour of the most historical sights of Delhi starting with a shopping trip to Sarojini Market.
Visit the fabulous Jama Masjid, India Gate, Humayun’s Tomb and experience the bustle of one of the busiest cities in the world.
Today is a good day before departing Delhi on your Golden Triangle India Itinerary to buy a salwar kameez or kurta and get kitted out with traditional dress for the trip!
- Read about where to go shopping for Indian outfits and what to wear for traveling in India plus the top things to do in Delhi.
- Travel by autorickshaw.
Day tour of Delhi and Sarojini Market by autorickshaw with driver Sunny
+91 95997 59259.
- Stay overnight in hotel, Delhi.
Day 3 – Train from Delhi to Agra – Clockwise 1 Week Golden Triangle Itinerary
Take a famous and fabulous Indian train ride today from Delhi to Agra, the second stop on your 1 Week Golden Triangle India itinerary.
To get from Delhi to Agra by road takes around 3.5 hours. It is common and easy to book a driver or tour from Delhi to Agra and the Taj Mahal and onwards to Jaipur. And there are also options to book a day trip from Delhi to visit the Taj Mahal.
- Delhi to Agra: 3 hr 37 min (242.9 km)
There are daily trains departing regularly from Delhi to Agra. The local trains take between 3 – 4 hours. But the fastest daily train from Delhi to Agra is the Gatimaan Express which departs from Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM) Railway Station in New Delhi arriving to Agra Cantt (AGC) in just 1 hour 40 minutes.
- SUGGESTED TRAIN
Delhi to Agra
#12050 GATIMAAN EXPRESS
Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs, Sat, Sun*
Departs 8:10am from New Delhi (HZM)
Arrives 9:50am to Agra Cantt (AGC)
*Note the Gatimaan Express does not operate on a Friday.
Arrive in Agra and get picked up by rickshaw to your homestay for the next two days.
The morning train is a great option arriving in Agra in the late morning with an afternoon to explore and take some rest before a sunrise start tomorrow for the Taj Mahal.
Check in to your accommodation and get settled in. The morning train ride will be an adventure in itself!
Day 3 – Afternoon – Clockwise 1 Week Golden Triangle Itinerary
In the afternoon, take a rickshaw out to Agra Fort for a first glimpse of the Taj Mahal. Learn about the story of how Shah Jahan, the emperor who commissioned the Taj Mahal was imprisoned in the fort in his last years of life only able to look out at his creation and the tomb of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
Head back to the homestay after a tour of fort for a unique Indian cooking class and make your own Indian meal for dinner.
- Read about taking trains in India, visiting the Taj Mahal and how to book tickets, and what else to see in Agra.
- Travel by train.
GATIMAAN EXPRESS #12050 Departs daily except Friday from New Delhi (HZM) at 8:10am arriving to Agra Cantt (AGC) at 9:50am.
- Book the train Delhi to Agra online from 12GoAsia.com.
- Stay overnight at Aman Homestay, Agra.
Day 4 – Agra – Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise
Welcome to the Taj Mahal. Every Golden Triangle India Itinerary must share India’s most wonderous sight! It is even more incredible in person.
Wake up before sunrise for the awaited iconic visit to the famous Taj Mahal. This is a great time to visit to beat the crowds for a unique tour without rush around this marvellous beauty.
Return to the homestay for a cooked breakfast and pack your bags ready for the next train adventure this afternoon, departing Agra at 14:50h.
- Read everything you need to know before visiting the Taj Mahal, how to book tickets and other things to do in Agra.
- Travel by auto rickshaw.
Book a rickshaw through the homestay for an early pickup to the Taj Mahal.
Today is another travel day taking an afternoon train from Agra to Jaipur.
- SUGGESTED TRAIN
Agra to Jaipur
#22988 AF AII SF EXP
Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun
Departs 14:40h from Agra Fort (AF)
Arrives 18:45h to Jaipur (JP)
The AF AII SF EXP operates daily from Agra to Jaipur with the option to travel in AC Chair Class (CC).
- Book the train Jaipur online from 12GoAsia.com.
After arriving in Jaipur go straight to your accommodation – a traditional Haveli-style family hotel – by auto rickshaw. You arrive in time for a delicious home-cooked and typical Rajasthani dinner at the Haveli.
- Read about traveling by train in India and Jaipur, the Pink City of Rajasthan.
- Travel by train.
#22988 AF AII SF EXP departs Agra Fort (AF) at 14:40h arriving to Jaipur (JP) at 18:45h with a travel time of 4h 5mins.
- Book the train Jaipur online from 12GoAsia.com.
- Stay overnight in traditional Haveli, Jaipur.
Day 5 – Jaipur – Clockwise 1 Week Golden Triangle Itinerary
The Pink City of Jaipur is amazing. It is a bustling, colourful and vibrant experience of the India you imagine. Jaipur is the capital city of Rajasthan and with its many forts and palaces it is invariably on the wish-list of every travel enthusiast to India.
It is a big city, and we recommend hiring a rickshaw and driver for the day to get around.
The top places to see with 1 day in Jaipur are:
- Hawa Mahal (Wind Palace)
- Amber Fort
- Jal Mahal (Water Palace)
- Jaipur City Palace
- Abhaneri Stepwell
- Jantar Mantar
And be sure to go – by rickshaw – to the best and most famous lassi wallah in Jaipur!
Note that hiring a rickshaw is primarily for transport only. It is a great way to get around and depending on your driver, they will be able to give you snippets of information and point out the main sites. At each of the main sites you can hire a local guide for a fixed price advertised by the site entrance.
- Read about all the best things to do in Jaipur and how to get around.
- Travel by auto rickshaw.
Get picked up from the train station by driver Raja Rabbani and tour the Pink City by rickshaw. Contact Raja on WhatsApp +91 9928130309.
- Stay overnight in traditional Haveli, Jaipur.
Day 6 – Delhi – Train Jaipur to Delhi – Clockwise 1 Week Golden Triangle Itinerary
Today it’s time to head back to the capital city, but it is not yet the end of your Golden Triangle India itinerary. Start with an early breakfast at your Haveli and take the morning superfast train from Jaipur (JP) to Delhi Cantt (DEC) station in New Delhi.
- SUGGESTED TRAIN
Jaipur to Delhi
#20977 CDG VANDE BHARAT
Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun*
Departs 7:50h from Jaipur (JP)
Arrives 11:30h to Delhi Cantt (DEC)
*Note the VANDE BHARAT from Jaipur to Delhi does not operate on Wednesday.
Arriving back in Delhi before lunchtime means you have one more afternoon of exploring this fantastic city.
Take a rickshaw tour to south Delhi to see the impressive Kutab Minar tower and the beautiful Lotus Temple. To finish the day, end with a shopping stop at Dili Haat Market. This is a fantastic place to get handicrafts, souvenirs and gifts from your Golden Triangle India experience.
- Eat dinner tonight at Lazeez Affaire in Connaught Place or treat yourself to a tasting menu at the famous Indian Accent restaurant.
- Travel by train and auto rickshaw.
#20977 VANDE BHARAT departs Jaipur (JP) at 7:50h arriving to Delhi Cantt (DEC) at 11:30h with a travel time of 3h 40mins.
Day tour of Delhi by autorickshaw with driver Sunny +91 95997 59259.
- Book the train Jaipur online from 12GoAsia.com.
Day 7 – Delhi – Departure
We hope this has helped you plan your Golden Triangle India itinerary and given you some great ideas of how to spend one week in India!
Read on for a second Golden Triangle India itinerary traveling anti-clockwise in the opposite direction.
Summary #2 – Anti-Clockwise – 1 Week Golden Triangle India Itinerary
See the complete adventure detailed below. But first, in summary…
- Day 1 – Delhi – Arrival
- Day 2 – Delhi – Rickshaw tour of Old Delhi
- Day 3 – Delhi to Jaipur – Train to Jaipur
- Day 4 – Jaipur – Rickshaw tour of Jaipur
- Day 5 – Jaipur to Agra – Train to Agra
- Day 6 – Agra – Taj Mahal; Train to Delhi
- Day 7 – Delhi – Departure
Detailed #2 Itinerary – Anti-Clockwise – 1 Week in India’s Golden Triangle
Read on for the full details.
Day 1 – Delhi – Arrival in Delhi
As above, depending on what time of day you arrive in India and where you are staying in Delhi you can head out for a first taste of Indian cuisine or take it easy and start today with dinner in your hotel and get ready for a day of exploring tomorrow.
- Read our travel guide to India including all about arriving at New Delhi International Airport, getting a SIM card for India and managing, exchanging and withdrawing money in India.
- Travel by taxi from the airport on arrival to your accommodation in Delhi.
- Stay overnight in hotel, Delhi.
Day 2 – Delhi – Tour of Old Delhi and Sarojini Market
Take a rickshaw tour of the historical sights of Delhi. Visit the fabulous Jama Masjid, India Gate, Humayun’s Tomb and experience the bustle of colourful old Delhi.
Regardless of which direction your Golden Triangle itinerary is headed, today is a good day before departing Delhi to buy a salwar kameez or kurta and get an outfit for the trip!
- Read about where to go shopping for Indian outfits and what to wear for traveling in India.
- Travel by autorickshaw.
Day tour of Delhi and Sarojini Market by autorickshaw with driver Sunny +91 95997 59259.
- Stay overnight in hotel, Delhi.
Day 3 – Train from Delhi to Jaipur – Anti-Clockwise 1 Week Golden Triangle Itinerary
Leave Delhi early by train bound for Jaipur.
- SUGGESTED TRAIN
Delhi to Jaipur
#12015 AJMER SHATABDI
Mon, Tues, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Departs 6:10am from New Delhi (NDLS)
Arrives 10:40am to Jaipur (JP)
Transfer to your accommodation and take a rest break for lunch before heading out in the afternoon to see the famous Hawa Mahal (Wind Palace) and Jaipur City Palace.
- Read about traveling by train from Delhi to Jaipur.
- Travel by train and auto rickshaw.
AJMER SHATABDI #12015 Departs daily from New Delhi (NDLS) at 06:10am arriving to Jaipur (JP) at 10:40am making the journey in 4hrs 35mins.
Get picked up from the train station by driver Raja Rabbani and tour Jaipur by rickshaw. Contact Raja on WhatsApp +91 9928130309.
- Book the train to Jaipur online from 12GoAsia.com.
- Stay overnight in traditional Haveli, Jaipur.
Day 4 – Jaipur – Anti-Clockwise 1 Week Golden Triangle Itinerary
Take a rickshaw tour of the top sites in Jaipur.
- Read about all the best things to do in Jaipur and how to get around.
- Travel by auto rickshaw.
Contact driver Raja Rabbani on WhatsApp +91 9928130309.
- Stay overnight in traditional Haveli, Jaipur.
Day 5 – Train from Jaipur to Agra – Anti-Clockwise 1 Week Golden Triangle Itinerary
Take another famous and fabulous train ride today from Jaipur to Agra.
- SUGGESTED TRAIN
Jaipur to Agra
#22987 AII AGRA FORT SF EXPRESS
Mon, Tues, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Departs 8:10am from Jaipur (JP)
Arrives 12:45pm to Agra Fort (AF)
Arrive in Agra and get picked up by rickshaw to transfer to your accommodation. Enjoy a restful afternoon then take a rickshaw out to Agra Fort before a unique Indian cooking class and make your own Indian meal for dinner.
- Read about taking the train from Jaipur to Agra.
- Travel by train.
AII AGRA FORT SF EXPRESS #22987 Departs daily from Jaipur (JP) at 8:10am arriving at Agra Fort (AF) at 12:45pm taking 4hrs 35mins. - Book the train to Agra online from 12GoAsia.com.
- Stay overnight at Aman Homestay, Agra.
Day 6 – Agra – Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise – Train Agra to Delhi
Wake up before sunrise for the awaited iconic visit to the famous Taj Mahal. This is a great time to visit to beat the crowds for a unique tour without rush around this marvellous beauty.
- Read everything you need to know before visiting the Taj Mahal, how to book tickets and other things to do in Agra.
- Travel by auto rickshaw.
Book a rickshaw through the homestay for an early pickup to the Taj Mahal.
Return to your accommodation for a cooked breakfast and pack your bags to check out and leave them there in storage. Head out again by auto rickshaw to see the Baby Taj, Mehtab Bagh gardens and Taj Mahal viewpoint before returning to pick up your luggage for an evening train back to Delhi.
- SUGGESTED TRAIN
Agra to Delhi
#12049 GATIMAAN EXP
Mon, Tues, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun*
Departs 17:50h from Agra Cantt (AGC)
Arrives 19:30h to Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM)
*Note the GATIMAAN EXP doesn’t operate on Friday.
- Read about traveling by train in India.
- Travel by train.
GATIMAAN EXP #12049 Departs from Agra Cantt (AGC) at 17:50h arriving at Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM) at 19:30h taking 1hr 40mins.
- Book the train to Delhi online from 12GoAsia.com.
- Stay overnight in a hotel, Delhi.
Day 7 – Delhi – Departure
We hope this has helped you plan your Golden Triangle India itinerary and given you some great ideas of how to spend one week in India!
Have longer than 1 week in India?
Read more about the best things to do in Delhi, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Udaipur, Pushkar, Ajmer, Varanasi, and Amritsar.
Where to stay in Delhi – Golden Triangle India Itinerary
- Mahipalpur (Airport) / Mid-Range: Taurus Sarovar Portico [beautiful hotel only a few km’s from Delhi International Airport. A great first stop arriving in India with buffet breakfast included and a restaurant onsite.
- South Delhi / Mid-Range: Haveli Hauz Khas
A homestay style Haveli in the popular Hauz Khas area of South Delhi.
- Connaught Place / Mid-Range-Luxury: Shangri La’s Eros Hotel
The hotel has a few in house restaurants, including the signature Shang Palace and Sorrento. There’s also a gym, an outdoor pool and a spa.
- Delhi / Budget: Smyle Inn
Extremely basic hotel in small back alley but with very friendly, helpful staff and simple breakfast included. Just off Main Bazaar.
Accommodation in Agra – Golden Triangle India Itinerary
- Agra / Budget-Mid: Aman HomestayVery friendly family-run homestay with rooftop views of The Taj Mahal. Great rickshaw driver service and home cooked meals. We stay here with our Group Trips to India.
- Agra / Budget-Mid: The Coral House Homestay by the Taj Located only 700 metres from Taj Mahal with a relaxing homestay feel and comfortable common areas. A great dinner and breakfast option. We really enjoyed staying here.
- Agra / Mid-Luxury: Hotel Taj Resorts
Beautiful resort style accommodation only 600 metres from the Taj. Enjoy the incredible restaurant on-site and refreshing swimming pool.
Where to stay in Jaipur – Golden Triangle India Itinerary
- Jaipur / Mid-Range: Jaipur Haveli
We recommend Jaipur Haveli and stay here on our India Group Trips. It is an incredible old haveli home in heart of Jaipur with beautiful rooms, great attention to detail and very friendly staff and owners.
- Jaipur / Budget: Moustache Jaipur Hostel
Low-cost, friendly hostel style accommodation.
- Jaipur / Mid-Range-Luxury: Shahpura House
Beautiful heritage hotel in the centre of the city offering high quality but at a good price.
Read more about travel in North India
- Epic 10 Day Rajasthan Itinerary
- Things to do in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
- What to see in Jaisalmer Fort
- Local desert cuisine and the food to try in Jaisalmer
- Getting the bus from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur or Bikaner
- Overnight train Delhi to Jaisalmer
- Taking the train Jaipur to Jaisalmer
- Leaving Jaisalmer to Jaipur (and Jodhpur too) by overnight train
- Choosing the best camel safari in Jaisalmer
About travel planning for India and beyond…
These are the companies we use while traveling fulltime as a family and that we would recommend to anyone planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation and it’s easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally.
- 12GoAsia – Book trains anywhere in Asia through 12Go.
- Skyscanner– This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide– Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world including everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
- SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Travel insurance tailored for longterm travel and nomads (including those who have already left home). Make sure you have travel insurance, whatever your Varanasi itinerary!