The Golden Triangle links three of North India's most famous cities, Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, in a loop of roughly 720 kilometres. It packs the Taj Mahal, grand forts and vibrant bazaars into a single trip and is the classic first India itinerary, ideal for five to seven days.
This guide covers what to see in each city, the best route and when to go.
What is the Golden Triangle route?
| City | Top sights | Suggested nights |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Humayun's Tomb, India Gate | 2 |
| Agra | Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri | 1 |
| Jaipur | Amber Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar | 2 |
What can you see in Delhi?
India's capital blends old and new. Old Delhi holds the Mughal era Red Fort, the vast Jama Masjid and the lanes of Chandni Chowk, while New Delhi has the elegant India Gate, Humayun's Tomb and the towering Qutub Minar. Two nights lets you sample both sides at a comfortable pace.
Why visit Agra?
Agra is home to the Taj Mahal, the white marble mausoleum built by Emperor Shah Jahan and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Sunrise visits are quieter and beautifully lit. Nearby stand the red sandstone Agra Fort and the deserted Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri.
What makes Jaipur special?
Jaipur, the Pink City and capital of Rajasthan, is famed for its hilltop Amber Fort, the royal City Palace, the honeycomb facade of Hawa Mahal and the astronomical instruments of Jantar Mantar. Its bazaars are among the best in India for textiles, jewellery and handicrafts.
When is the best time for the Golden Triangle?
October to March offers cool, dry and comfortable weather, making it the best window for sightseeing. Summers from April to June are very hot, often above 40 degrees Celsius, while the monsoon brings rain from July to September.
How many days do you need?
Five days is the minimum for a relaxed loop, and six or seven days lets you add a Jaipur day trip or slow down in each city. Distances are covered by road or by fast trains, so plan a few hours of travel between cities.
For broader planning, see our India travel guide, our guide to the best places to visit in India, and the best time to visit India.
To have the route, hotels and guided visits arranged for you, explore our curated India tour packages.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Golden Triangle take?
Most travellers do it in five to seven days, spending two nights in Delhi, one in Agra and two in Jaipur, with road or rail travel between the cities.
Is the Taj Mahal closed on any day?
Yes. The Taj Mahal is closed to tourists on Fridays for prayers, so plan your Agra day around that. It is open from sunrise to sunset on all other days.
What is the best order to visit the cities?
The usual loop is Delhi to Agra to Jaipur and back to Delhi, which flows well with sightseeing and travel times. It can also be reversed depending on your arrival point.
Is the Golden Triangle good for first time visitors?
Yes. It offers an easy, well connected introduction to India's history, architecture and culture, with plentiful hotels and transport at every budget.
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