Welcome to New Delhi! Upon your arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport, you'll complete customs and immigration formalities, followed by baggage collection. A representative will be waiting to greet you as you exit the arrivals terminal, ready to assist you with your transfer to the hotel.
Once you arrive at your hotel, check in and settle into your accommodations. As India’s capital and a major gateway to the country, contemporary Delhi is a vibrant metropolis that beautifully blends the ancient and the modern. Amid the soaring skyscrapers, you’ll find historical monuments that stand as silent witnesses to the region’s rich heritage.
Your first impressions of Delhi will reveal a spacious, garden city, characterized by tree-lined streets and an array of lovely parks. This dynamic city invites you to explore its intriguing contrasts and cultural richness.
Enjoy your overnight stay at the hotel as you prepare for the adventures that lie ahead
After enjoying a delightful buffet breakfast at the hotel, embark on a full-day city tour of Old and New Delhi. Your adventure begins in Old Delhi, where you will first visit Raj Ghat, a serene memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Next, you'll drive past the magnificent Red Fort and arrive at Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque, which can accommodate up to 25,000 worshippers. Built by Shah Jahan between 1644 and 1656, this stunning mosque features grand red sandstone and white marble architecture crafted by a team of 5,000 artisans. Ascend the broad red sandstone steps that lead to its impressive gates on the east, north, and south sides.
After exploring the rich history of Old Delhi, you'll transition to New Delhi, a reflection of the British colonial legacy. The stark contrast between the two areas symbolizes the differing lifestyles of their respective eras: Old Delhi, with its vibrant traditions and historic charm, and New Delhi, a bustling metropolis striving for 21st-century sophistication.
Your tour of Imperial Delhi will include a visit to the iconic Qutub Minar, the tallest stone tower in India, initiated by Qutub-ud-din Aibak in 1199. The construction involved repurposing materials from 27 Hindu and Jain temples to build the Quwat-ul-Islam mosque, also founded by Aibak.
As you continue your journey, you'll drive past the imposing India Gate, the Parliament building, and the grand Rashtrapati Bhawan, the President’s residence. A visit to the Laxmi Narayan Temple, also known as the Birla Temple, will follow. This modern Hindu temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is one of Delhi's major attractions, offering a tranquil atmosphere often filled with melodious kirtans that resonate throughout the sanctum sanctorum.
Finally, wrap up your day with some shopping at Connaught Place, Delhi’s premier shopping destination. After a fulfilling day of exploration, return to the hotel for an overnight stay.
After a hearty buffet breakfast at the hotel, embark on a scenic drive from Delhi to Agra, covering a distance of 203 kilometers in approximately 4.5 hours. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and take a moment to relax.
Agra is steeped in the ambiance of its illustrious Mughal heritage. The Mughal Empire, known for its remarkable rulers and architects, left behind some of the most stunning architectural marvels, with Agra serving as a focal point for many of these treasures.
In the afternoon, you’ll visit the iconic Taj Mahal (closed on Fridays). Often described as the epitome of beauty, the Taj Mahal took 22 years and the efforts of 20,000 skilled artisans to complete. The pristine white marble was quarried 200 miles away and transported to the site by a fleet of 1,000 elephants. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the mid-17th century as a testament to his love for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s wonders. Take your time to explore its stunning architecture and intricate marble inlay work, which is truly mesmerizing from every angle.
Next, you’ll continue your journey with a visit to Agra Fort, another magnificent example of Mughal architecture. This formidable fortress served as the seat of the Mughal Empire for generations. Originally established by Emperor Akbar, the fort's impressive walls and gates were constructed along the eastern banks of the Yamuna River. Later additions by Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb, including the Royal Pavilions and the Hall of Public Audience, enhance its historical significance.
After a day filled with wonder and exploration, return to your hotel for an overnight stay.
After enjoying a delicious buffet breakfast at the hotel, set out on a scenic drive to Jaipur, covering 235 kilometers in approximately 6 hours. Along the way, stop to explore Fatehpur Sikri, a mesmerizing abandoned city built by the great Mughal Emperor Akbar in the late 16th century. Once his capital, this red sandstone city was abandoned shortly after its completion when local wells ran dry. Today, it stands remarkably preserved, allowing visitors to wander through its palaces and mosques, which were part of a town that was once larger than London.
After your exploration of Fatehpur Sikri, continue your journey to Jaipur. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and take a moment to relax.
Rajasthan’s kingdoms offer a fascinating glimpse into India’s rich history, characterized by formidable forts, magnificent palaces, shimmering sand dunes, and serene lakes. No region in the country captures the diverse paradoxes of India quite like the vibrant desert landscape of Rajasthan. Known as the "Pink City," Jaipur is steeped in history, surrounded by rugged hills adorned with impressive forts and dotted with stunning palaces, mansions, and lush gardens.
The echoes of royal processions and grandeur from centuries past are woven into the fabric of daily life in Jaipur. Despite the bustling traffic of bicycles, cars, and buses, the city retains a timeless charm, with its lively bazaars and vibrant locals. The colorful attire of the women and the distinctive turbans of the men add to the city’s allure, making it a living canvas of culture and tradition.
In the afternoon, you will have free time for leisure or shopping. Jaipur is renowned for its exquisite jewelry and beautiful textiles, providing a perfect opportunity to take home a piece of this enchanting city. After a fulfilling day, enjoy an overnight stay at the hotel.
After a sumptuous buffet breakfast at the hotel, prepare for a day of exploration as you drive just outside Jaipur to the ancient capital of Amber to visit the magnificent Amber Fort. Commissioned in the 17th century by Maharaja Mansingh, the most successful general of Mughal Emperor Akbar, Amber Fort served as the seat of power before the City Palace was built in Jaipur. The fort is framed by fortified battlements and overlooks the serene Maota Lake, with its ruins and remnants spread across the Aravalli hills, creating a breathtaking landscape.
To reach the fort, you can enjoy a ride on an elephant (or opt for a jeep if you prefer). Once atop the fort, take a leisurely stroll through the expansive complex of courtyards and halls. Many rooms feature stunning wall paintings and exquisite inlaid work with precious stones and mirrors. One of the most captivating spots is the Sheesh Mahal, or Hall of Mirrors, where a single candle's light reflects off countless mirrors, illuminating the entire room in a mesmerizing display.
On your way to Amber Fort, you'll stop to admire the Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds. This elaborate façade was designed for the royal ladies to observe the bustling street life below without being seen. Its intricate pink sandstone carvings and numerous windows create a cool breeze that flows through the latticed screens, offering a glimpse into the past.
In the afternoon, delve deeper into the city of Jaipur. Your tour will include a visit to the City Palace, an impressive complex of palaces, gardens, and courtyards adorned with decorative art and intricately carved doorways. The palace museum showcases a remarkable collection of rare manuscripts, armor, costumes, carpets, and miniature paintings.
Next, stroll over to the adjacent Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory constructed by the Maharaja of Jaipur in 1726. This remarkable structure, one of five built by Sawai Jai Singh, continues to make accurate astronomical predictions to this day.
After a day filled with history and culture, take some time to explore the vibrant local markets, offering a delightful array of crafts and souvenirs. Finally, return to your hotel after your sightseeing tour of Jaipur. Enjoy your overnight stay at the hotel.
DAY 06 JAIPUR – DELHI DEPARTURE BY: INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT
After buffet breakfast at the hotel, you will be driven from Jaipur to Delhi (260 KMS / 5 hours). Upon arrival at Delhi, a representative will meet you and transfer you to International airport to board your flight back home.
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The Golden Triangle Tour with Rishikesh is a captivating journey that blends cultural heritage with spiritual serenity. This tour covers India’s iconic cities of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, collectively known as the Golden Triangle, alongside the tranquil town of Rishikesh, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas.