Experience Overview
Discover the Golden Triangle – a classic route linking Delhi, Agra and Jaipur – on a pulsating tour that takes in world-famous landmarks, energetic cities and a culinary scene to rival any. This trip is an ideal introduction if you're a first-time visitor or tight on time yet keen to immerse yourself in the best of northern India. You will, of course, visit the major landmarks, including a sunrise trip to the Taj Mahal, and the bustle of the must-see cities, but that's well-balanced with time in the countryside, where you'll see rural life steeped in traditional, simple living.
Profile
— Accommodation: 6 Classic nights (hotels) — Group normally 4 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 16 — Travel by air-conditioned private bus — Special festival departures for Holi and Diwali
At a Glance
— Accommodation: 6 Classic nights (hotels) — Group normally 4 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 16 — Travel by air-conditioned private bus — Special festival departures for Holi and Diwali
Trip For You
This trip is rated Activity Level 2 (Easy & Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
This trip covers the highlights of northern India in a short time, which means the itinerary is generally fast-paced. There is a lot to see, but everything is scheduled so it doesn’t feel too rushed.
However, you should prepare for some long days and early starts. The times stated in the Trip Notes are driving times and do not include photo, tea, comfort or lunch breaks. Journeys can sometimes take longer due to local traffic or road damage.
India can be challenging – the heat and bustle of some cities can be a little overwhelming. That said, there are peaceful spots and you will undoubtedly return with memories to last a lifetime.
Please note, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is responsible for the conservation of many monuments in India, including the Taj Mahal, and very occasionally this may mean that work is taking place at sites visited on this trip. The ASI’s schedule is never published, so it is not possible to warn you when work will be taking place.
Festivals: Holi and Diwali
Some departures coincide with Holi and Diwali. These can be local celebrations within communities and families and are not necessarily marked to the same extent throughout the country. We will seek opportunities to see the festivities; however, we cannot guarantee what will be happening in the local area during the trip.
Holi celebrations typically involve people throwing coloured powders and water at each other and smearing powder on each other’s faces. This tends to be done in local communities and families, so it is not always possible to be involved (though you may see the colourful results of this boisterous festival on the streets). During Holi, local monuments and markets will close, so departures in 2023 and 2024 over Holi will have a slight adjustment to the itinerary. In Jaipur, sightseeing will be limited, so where necessary we will included a cultural day to see local musicians and dancers perform; there may also be an opportunity to join in: playing with colours, dancing, and enjoying food and drinks. You can also purchase locally the traditional white kurta outfit to look the part and avoid getting your own clothes covered in the coloured powders.
During Diwali, the festival of lights to mark the start of the Hindu New Year, people may light up their houses and shops and sometimes celebrate on the streets with fireworks. Lasting up to five days, it is difficult for us to predict what will be going on in the areas we visit. Where something is happening, we will endeavour to see how we can witness the festivities.
Group Description
Our Indian team of leaders have proved very popular with their incredible knowledge, passion and hospitality adding greatly to the experience. There is no better way to experience Indian culture than letting an Indian guide show you around their country.
Eating Drinking
All breakfasts are included in this trip.
India is famous for its food and there is ample opportunity to try various curries, including the familiar tandoori, biriyani and rogan josh. If you are a vegetarian, India is a great destination. There are wonderful desserts and excellent beers, soft drinks and Indian specialities such as lassi, a refreshing yoghurt drink.
You should allow at least 1,400-2,400 Indian rupees (US$20-US$35) per day for lunch and dinner. You can eat out very cheaply in India, but if you go to the more expensive restaurants, most of the time, you will spend more than the suggested amount. In most towns we visit, there is a good selection of restaurants and a choice between Indian and Western food. Please note, service in restaurants can be quite slow. Tea and soft drinks are very cheap. A (large!) bottle of beer is approximately 285 rupees (approximately US$4).
Mineral water is widely available, but drinking water is provided in a large container in the bus to reduce our use of plastic, so please bring your own refillable water bottle.
Transportation
We use private air-conditioned minibus for our journey.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Bloom Hotel Karol Bagh, 17A/32, Gurudwara Road, Near Pusa Road, Metro Pillar No: 98-99, Opposite Jessaram Hospital, WEA, Karol Bagh, New Delhi, 110005
Phone: +91 11 4641 3759
Recommended arrival time: We recommend you arrive today on or before 1pm (local time) ready for the afternoon tour departing from your hotel. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening with your leader.
Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 35 minutes’ drive from the airport. Exodus provides free arrival transfers to the start hotel from the airport for all customers. If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
Exodus provides free departure transfers for all customers to Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) from the end hotel.
Please note, unless specified otherwise, the free transfers will be provided to the start (or pre-tour) hotel and from the end (or post-tour) hotel and will be on the date on which the tour starts/ends; transfers to other hotels in the same city or independently booked accommodation may attract an extra charge. Transfers should be booked with your sales representative at least two weeks before the tour starts.
Weather Information
During October/November and from February to April, the days are normally warm or hot and nights cool or mild. Humidity is very low and little or no rain falls.
It gets very cold in the early mornings and evenings in December, January and into February and warm clothes are essential. During this time, nightly temperatures in Delhi can be very cold and only a little above freezing. Come prepared for both cold and hot temperatures during the winter period.
In July, August and September, expect hot (or very hot) days and warm nights. Rain is also possible at any time from the end of June until September and can be very heavy. However, it moderates the temperatures.
Spending Money
Many sites now charge a small fee for video cameras and you should allow another 665 rupees (approximately US$9) for these, no charge for taking photos only. Also allow at least 570 rupees (approximately US$8) per day for personal expenditures such as stamps, postcards and soft drinks. There are endless shopping opportunities throughout this tour and we suggest you take money for souvenirs; even the most shop-shy travellers often succumb to the tempting selection of handicrafts available.
Entrance fee for Jama Masjid (Day 2): 300 rupees (approximately US$4)
During your trip, it is likely your local guides will take you to emporiums and handicraft workshops. Guides will often assume that visitors will want to go shopping, it is very much part of the culture, but if you do not wish to go, please make this clear to your guide and Exodus leader at the time. Many people find this a great opportunity to buy local handicrafts, silk, jewellery and carpets but it might not be for everyone and you're welcome to enjoy some free instead of shopping.
Optional excursions
This is a jam packed itinerary but there are some optional activities available as outlined below.
Delhi:
— Day 6 - Qutab Minar 3hr tour: approximately 2,500-6,500 rupees (US$30-US$78) per person (depending on the group size)
Qutab Minar is a soaring, 73m-high towers of victory, built in 1193 by Qutab-ud-din Aibak immediately after the defeat of Delhi's last Hindu kingdom. The tower has five distinct storeys and, at the foot of the tower is the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, the first mosque to be built in India. A Seven metre-high iron pillar stands in the courtyard of the mosque; it is said that if you can encircle it with your hands while standing with your back to it your wish will be fulfilled. Price includes transportation, local guide, tipping, and monument entrance.
— Morning Old Delhi city walk with Salaam Baalak Trust: approximately 3,500-5,500 rupees (US$42-US$53) per person (depending on the group size)
Led by ex-street kids of Delhi, this insightful walk starts from Jama Masjid and takes you through the narrow alleys in the heart of the old city. Price includes transportation, local guide and tipping. Entrance to Jama Masjid monument is not included. Tour is subject to availability at time of request. Please note, this city tour is only available for pre-arrival or post-departure extensions to the trip as time does not permit within the main itinerary.
Tipping
Tipping is a part of Indian culture and usually expected. It can often be an awkward affair, especially when in an unfamiliar country where you are not sure when or how much to tip. As such, your tour leader will offer to arrange and look after a group tipping kitty, which will be used to tip hotel staff, sightseeing guides, bus drivers and other support staff used throughout your trip. Your leader will suggest how much to contribute, depending on group size, but it is usually in the region of 2,000 rupees (approximately US$26) per person based on the maximum group size of 16 passengers. For smaller groups, the leader may ask to collect more than the suggested amount relative to the group size, this is to assist with covering the standard tipping expectations for things like the local guides, drivers, and hotel staff (which, are generally fixed amounts no matter the group size).
For departures that travel during Holi Festival (25 March 2024 & 14 March 2025) your Leader will look to arrange some activities for you to enjoy and join in with the festivities. There will be a small supplement between 600 - 1600 rupees (approximately US$7-20) per person which is usually deducted from the Kitty. Price depends upon the location and festival inclusions for Holi celebration.
At any time during the trip, your leader will be happy to show you an account of how the kitty is being distributed. Please note, for smaller groups the leader may have to collect more than the above amount.
Tipping of leaders is not included in the kitty and is at your own discretion. If you wish to show your appreciation a tip of around 475 rupees (USD$6) per person per day would be appreciated.
Highlights
— Complete the famed Golden Triangle, visiting Delhi, Agra and Jaipur — See the unforgettable Taj Mahal at sunrise, the most beautiful time to visit — Wind through the narrow streets of Old Delhi by rickshaw — Marvel at the Pink City of Jaipur — Experience village life outside the hustle of the big cities — Time travel with a stay in the Suroth Mahal, an 800-year-old heritage hotelTrip Details
Product Code: 4116
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: journey.
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: AIX
Starts: Delhi, India
Finishes: Delhi, India
Duration: 7 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical rating: Unknown
Includes
— All breakfasts included — All accommodation — All transport — Entrances fees to monuments in Jaipur and Agra (as per itinerary) — Jeep tour to local village — Tour leader throughoutAccommodation
City and heritage hotelsWe stay in four cities on our Golden Triangle adventure: Delhi, Agra, Hindaun and Jaipur. See the accommodations typically used below. Delhi: Bloom Hotel Karol Bagh (nights 1 and 6) This three-star property is in a commercial and residential area of Karol Bagh, conveniently located just five minutes from the metro station. Agra: The Taj Vilas (night 2) Close to the Taj Mahal, this modern accommodation is ideally placed for our adventures in Agra. The 68 rooms and suites have an electronic panel to conserve energy, plus there’s a restaurant serving European and Indian dishes. Hindaun: Suroth Mahal, Heritage Hotel (night 3) The Suroth Mahal takes over an 800-year-old building, offering 20 traditional rooms dressed in local decor and antiques. The dining experience encompasses dishes from Rajasthan, India and beyond. Jaipur: LilyPool – The Heritage Jal Mahal (nights 4-5) Expect traditional hospitality and stylings at the LilyPool, which overlooks the Jal Mahal Palace and Man Sagar Lake. There are antiques and intricate decor throughout, plus an outdoor pool should you feel like a dip. Worth knowing Hotels in India usually do not have heating as there are only a couple of months when the weather can get cold. You can, however, request more blankets if needed or the hotel may be able to provide a standing heater for your room. Please talk to your tour leader if you need help in this matter. It’s common for hotels in India to have limited times in the day for hot water use to save energy. If you find your shower is cold, please let your leader or reception know so they can make sure the water heater is on. For 2025 departures, the Jaipur accommodation (days 4 & 5) will be 7 Apple Hotel - Jalmahal
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 1230 (CAD 176 /day)
Itinerary
The adventure begins in Delhi. The group flight will arrive into Delhi this morning and transfer to our hotel. Those who have made their own flight arrangements, Exodus provides free arrival transfers to the start hotel from the airport. Please ensure you have provided your flight details to our customer operations team no later than 2 weeks prior to arrival. In the afternoon (approximately 2pm), we embark on a city tour, beginning with New Delhi, where we visit the Unesco-listed Humayun’s Tomb: the tomb of Mughal emperor Humayun built by his widow Hamida Banu Begam. We then drive past fine colonial buildings in New Delhi, including Rashtrapati Bhavan, a 320-acre (130ha) estate built by British architect Edwin Lutyens in 1931, which comprises the official residence of the President of India, Parliament House and India Gate – a memorial to soldiers who died in the First World War. We return to the hotel for a free evening. Accommodation: Bloom Hotel Karol Bagh (or similar)
After breakfast, we see more of Delhi, starting outside the Jama Masjid (the largest mosque in India) to learn more about the history of the building; if interested, you can enter the mosque (fees may be applicable). From Jama Masjid, you will be guided through the narrow streets of the old Delhi markets by cycle rickshaw, finishing at Khari Baoli, the largest spice market in India. This afternoon, we head to Agra (approximately four to five hours' drive). Upon arrival, check into the hotel with the evening free to relax. Accommodation: The Taj Vilas (or similar)
A very early start will be rewarded with a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal. The Moghul emperor Shah Jahan built the beautiful white-marble building in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1631. The Taj is serenely beautiful and never fails to amaze a first-time visitor. A short drive onwards, we visit the imposing Agra Fort (also known as the Red Fort). It was built by the third Mughal emperor, Akbar, whose mighty red sandstone walls enclose the white-marble Pearl Mosque and the palaces, halls, courtyards, and gardens of his sons and successors, Jehangir and Shah Jahan. In the afternoon, we make our way to Suroth Mahal (approximately three to four hours' drive), an impressive 600-year-old fort in the city of Hindaun. Tonight’s stay is in a former royal residence of Maharaja Krishna Chandra Pal. After checking into the hotel and freshening up, we take a 45 minute round trip by a camel cart ride to the local century old Hindu temple. This evening, get ready to immerse yourself in the rich culinary heritage of Rajasthan during a captivating cooking demonstration at Suroth Mahal. A wonderful opportunity to observe and learn about Rajasthani cuisine as our skilled chef prepares local dishes while discussing the recipes and techniques involved. Accommodation: Suroth Mahal, Heritage Hotel (or similar)
After breakfast, we head out from our hotel on a gentle one hour walk to a 300-year-old village to meet the villagers and learn about their daily life. On the way we visit the local market (haat) and see the community going about their daily tasks, such as creating handicrafts or working in their fields. In the afternoon, after freshening up at your hotel, check out and drive to Jaipur (approximately four to five hours). The evening is free. Accommodation: LilyPool – The Heritage Jal Mahal
Enjoy a full day exploring Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan and one of the most attractive and colourful cities in India. Built in the late 18th century, it is a planned city of broad sandstone avenues that were later painted pink. First, we visit the hilltop Amer Fort, which was built by Kachwaha dynasty ruler Man Singh and acted as the seat of the dynasty before the capital was shifted to Jaipur. Later, we visit the City Palace, once a Maharaja residence and now a museum containing rare manuscripts, paintings, royal garments and weapons. Close to the palace is one of the most intriguing sites in India, Jantar Mantar (Jaipur Observatory), an assembly of immense marble-and-brass astronomical instruments in a pleasant garden. We also see the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds), a five-storey landmark built of pink sandstone, which allowed the women of the royal household to observe street festivities without being noticed. Finally, we can end the day exploring the local market within the walled city – admiring the local dhurries (woven rugs), carpets, printed cloth, semi-precious stones and leatherwear. Accommodation: LilyPool – The Heritage Jal Mahal (or similar)
Return to Delhi after breakfast, aiming to arrive at our hotel in the late afternoon. Typically, the group gathers for a final meal this evening, a chance to relax and recount the whirlwind week and memories created with new-found friends. Accommodation: Bloom Hotel Karol Bagh (or similar)
The tour ends in Delhi this morning. You can begin your return journey home, but if you'd like more time to explore this magnificent city, speak to your sales representative about booking post-tour accommodation.
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Tour Operator
Exodus Travel
It’s all about adventure That is what Exodus was founded upon 50 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on. At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved. This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday. Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments. See our history page for more details about how we began and how we have grown over the past 50 years. Never travelled with Exodus before? Visit our New to Exodus page for some useful, first-timer information.
In Business Since 1974
Reviews
LUCINDA DEACON - Traveled, February 2024
Full on tour of main sights in the north Its an excellent introduction to the wonderful sights, smells and colours of India. Most Inspirational Moment I enjoyed our stay in the village, staying in a heritage hotel and it felt like the real India. I loved the food . Thoughts on Group Leader Vivek is an excellent tour leader going out of his way to make sure we all enjoyed our trip. Advice for Potential Travellers This is a full on tour with quite a bit of driving, but there is so much to see from the minibus. Suggestions I would have preferred not to do the organised trips to the marble factory, jewellery shop and carpet shop. I would have preferred to visit more local markets.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/25/2024
Lydia C - Traveled, November 2023
India's Golden Triangle “Booking process was good with right amount of communication before we travelled. Tour leader was very good and friendly. Good way to see the golden triangle in a short space of time. “ Most Inspirational Moment Taj Mahal Thoughts on Group Leader Naveen helped make this a memorable trip
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/16/2023
Abigail D - Traveled, December 2023
India's Golden Triangle Fabulous organisation and communication and a wonderful guide. Most Inspirational Moment The palace at South. Thoughts on Group Leader Naveen was excellent and went above and beyond
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/26/2023
Leica B - Traveled, October 2023
India's Golden Triangle Our guide in India was fabulous. Good option of tours and price. Most Inspirational Moment The Agra Fort and the Taj Mahal at dawn. Thoughts on Group Leader He was wonderful. He managed to make being superbly well-organised look effortless and was completely unruffled by any situation. The whole group got on well with him (and each other). It was a memorable and very happy experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/25/2023
Leica B - Traveled, November 2023
India's Golden Triangle Florence Inn could have been cleaner. Floor in the very very small double room was dirty under foot. Most Inspirational Moment Visiting a local school, Agra fort, restaurants our guide Vivek took us to. Thoughts on Group Leader Very patient and calm nature much appreciated.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/28/2023
Jacqueline N - Traveled, November 2023
India's Golden Triangle Well organised trip, great itinerary. As a single female traveller, I felt safe and any concerns were addressed immediately. Amazon travel rep. Would definitely recommend to friends. I have already got another trip booked for November and thinking of booking another early next year. Most Inspirational Moment Culture Taj Mahal Group experience Thoughts on Group Leader Could not have been any better
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/29/2023
Julian P - Traveled, October 2023
India's Golden Triangle We had a wonderful time, packing in an enormous amount in such a short visit. It was clear the organisers had anticipated every step so it went very smoothly. Most Inspirational Moment The Agra Fort and the Taj Mahal at dawn. Thoughts on Group Leader He was wonderful. He managed to make being superbly well-organised look effortless and was completely unruffled by any situation. The whole group got on well with him (and each other). It was a memorable and very happy experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/26/2023
Jacqueline N - Traveled, November 2023
India's Golden Triangle Well organised trip with an excellent, knowledgeable tour guide. Our driver kept us safe on the chaotic roads. Most Inspirational Moment "Culture Taj Mahal Group experience " Thoughts on Group Leader Could not have been any better
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/25/2023
Grant B - Traveled, October 2023
India's Golden Triangle Everything great apart from the last nights accommodation which was a bit of a let down. Jaipur section was also just a little rushed, but understand the travel distance etc. Most Inspirational Moment Taj Mahal, the food choices were excellent Thoughts on Group Leader Excellent guide and a really nice guy
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/25/2023
Susan W - Traveled, October 2023
India's Golden Triangle Loved the very full itinerary. Felt safe within the group and so was able to see sights that I would never have dreamt of visiting solo. Most Inspirational Moment Taj Mahal and Amer Fort. Rickshaw ride and visit to the village. Thoughts on Group Leader
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/23/2023
Andrea L - Traveled, November 2023
India's Golden Triangle Every aspect was brilliant from the information ahead of the trip, the local guides and the programme of events. I felt as thought I had 3 weeks of interesting experiences packed into 1. Excellent. Most Inspirational Moment I loved meeting the villagers in Suroth riding on the back of the camel cart and the Maharaja's palace with the wresting and guide by the son. Also the Taj Mahal. However, every expedition was excellent and smoothly arranged. Thoughts on Group Leader Naveen was an excellent leader. Everything was smooth. He was easy to understand and always had time to answer questions.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/29/2023
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