Travelpack

Highlights: Delhi - Agra - Jaipur

Please Note:
* Quote does not include International flights
* Quote is based on 2 Persons traveling together (sharing a twin or double room)

Introduction:
The Golden Triangle is a popular tourist circuit that covers the cities of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. These three cities form a roughly equilateral triangle on the map and are known for their rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and architectural marvels. The Golden Triangle tour is a must-do for first-time visitors to India and offers a glimpse into the country's diverse history and culture.

Highlights of the tour:
• Enjoy a visit to the deserted city, “Fatehpur Sikri”
• Wonder at the sight of the world-famous “Taj Mahal”, a monument of Love
• You will take a ride on Delhi metro to travel within the city. Hop into a train for a unique experience from Chandni Chowk to Rajiv Chowk
• Heritage walk in the old city of Jaipur

Hotels featured or similar:
Delhi - The Connaught
Agra - Sarovar Crystal
Jaipur - Ramada
Delhi - The Grand

Please Note: Taj Mahal Remains closed on Every Friday

Itinerary:
Day 1: Delhi
Upon arrival at the Delhi airport, you will be met by our Tour Manager and transferred to your hotel. 14:00 Hrs: Standard check-in time. The rest of the day at leisure and then an overnight stay at your hotel.

Day 2: Delhi
It’s time to enjoy a full day city tour of Delhi to give you a feel for this magnificent city as you explore its historic sights. Your first stop is Raj Ghat which is located on the banks of the river Yamuna, This is Mahatma Gandhi’s Memorial, where he was cremated following his assassination in January 1948. Opposite the Red Fort lies Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque, made of red sandstone and white marble, completed in 1656. Heading west from the Red Fort you’ll explore the bustling cultural delight of the colourful market on a 'cycle rickshaw', then through "Chandni Chowk" or Silver Street, surrounded by the sights and sounds of this very busy avenue. A truly unique experience. The Red Fort is a 17th-century imposing fortress built in red sandstone and surrounded by a huge 33 metres high boundary wall. Inside are exquisite palaces and beautiful gardens. 

In the afternoon you will head into New Delhi, visiting Humayun’s Tomb, an impressive garden tomb with high arches and a double dome, built by his wife Haji Begum in the 16th Century. An early example of Mughal architecture considered to be the predecessor of the Taj Mahal. Then continue on to the wonderful Qutab Minar – a major landmark of Delhi, with its the beautiful grounds featuring a huge ‘tower of victory’, which stands over 72 metres high. You will then drive on to Rajpath and through to India Gate and the Lutyens Delhi, with its tree-lined boulevards leading to the British Viceroy’s Palace (Rashtrapati Bhavan), now the official residence of the President of India, the Secretariat, India Gate and Parliament House.

Day 3: Delhi to Agra by surface, 210 Kms/ 4 Hours
Today you will be driven to the romantic city of Agra. Upon arrival at Agra, check in to your hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.

Day 4: Agra
After breakfast enjoy visiting the world-famous Taj Mahal (closed on Fridays). The Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, in memory of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1631, built one of the world’s most famous buildings, the ‘Taj Mahal’. Its perfect proportions and exquisite craftsmanship have been described as ‘a vision, a dream, a poem, and a wonder’. You’ll also visit the 16th century Agra fort. This commanding red sandstone monument stretches for 2.5 kilometres along the banks of River Yamuna, encompassing serene gardens and terraced pavilions, with striking views of the magnificent Taj Mahal across the river, as well as the Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, also known as the ‘Baby Taj’. In the evening you’ll enjoy a sunset view of the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh, which is a garden complex, situated on the riverbank opposite the Taj Mahal.

Day 5: Agra to Jaipur by surface, 265 km, 6 ½ Hours
Drive to Jaipur with an en-route visit to Fatehpur Sikri - the imperial ruins of the dream capital city of the Great Mughal Emperor - Akbar. Then continue on to Jaipur, the famed ‘Pink City’ and the capital of Rajasthan, known for its palaces, its three hill forts and for being a shopper’s paradise. Upon arrival at Jaipur, check in to your hotel. The evening is at leisure to explore the surrounding area and the colourful bazaar. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 6: Jaipur
This morning we take you to Amber, - the capital of the old state of Dhundhar, which is located on the rugged hills that surround Jaipur by Jeep. During the afternoon visit the City Palace (which still houses the erstwhile Royal family); Jantar Mantar, the Royal Observatory and Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) - built for the royal ladies to watch the activities on the market street below, without being observed. Evening enjoy A Heritage walk in Old City. You will also have the opportunity to mingle with locals whilst sampling some of the area's culinary delights. Our guide will purchase kulfi, milk cake, samosa, and lassi from some of the city’s most popular street food vendors for you to try along the way.
Overnight stay at your hotel.

Day 7: Jaipur to Delhi by surface, 258 km / 6 Hours
After breakfast drive to Delhi. Upon arrival at Delhi, check in at your hotel. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 8: Depart Delhi by flight for an onward journey
Transfer from your hotel to Delhi airport in time to board the flight for the onward journey.

Extension To Goa

Duration - 7 Nights

Prices start from - £658

Hotel Featured or Similar
Colonia Santa Maria

Day 8: Delhi to Goa by flight
Transfer from hotel to Delhi airport in time to board flight for Goa. Upon arrival at Goa airport, you will be met and transferred by our representative Goa, the crown jewel in the treasure trove of India, is a masterpiece of nature. Goa is a land of amazing contrasts. From the quietest beaches where you can even hear yourself breathe, to the busiest flea markets where you can't hear yourself talk. From the most honest-to-goodness local cuisine to the most authentic international flavours for the epicurean explorer. Swaying palms, white sands and sparkling waters: the three essential elements that attract million of visitors to Goa's balmy shores are plentiful in this tiny, glorious slice of India hugging the country’s western coastline and bounded by the Arabian Sea.

Day 9 to 14 - Goa
All days you will enjoy by relaxing on the beach

Day 15 - Depart Goa
Transfer from hotel to Goa airport in time to board flight for Goa.

Offer Includes ( Based on minimum 2 persons (per person cost)
* Domestic flight for the sector Delhi / Goa in Economy class including fares and all current taxes to-date
* 07 Nights Accommodation on bed and breakfast basis
* Return airport transfer in Goa

Extension To Shimla

Duration - 4 Nights

Prices start from - £805

Hotel Featured or Similar
Hotel Clarkes

Day 8 Delhi to Kalka by train - the Shatabdi Express 0740/1145 hrs
Kalka to Kandaghat by surface
Kandaghat to Shimla by toy train: 1521 – 1730 Hrs
You will be transferred to New Delhi railway station to board the train for Kalka, departing at 07:40. Local snacks and tea or coffee will be served on board. At 11:45 the train arrives into Kalka railway station. Upon arrival you met by your driver at the railway station and will drive you to Kandaghat railway station in time to the board the toy train to Shimla (non air-conditioned) Toy train offers the charm of old-world travel amidst lofty pines and lush green, misty mountains. Laid out on a 96 km long narrow gauge track that passes through 103 tunnels and across more than 800 bridges and viaducts, it is one of the most beautiful hill railways in India. It was considered the “crown jewel” of the Indian National Railways during British times. 

1730 Hrs: Arrive at Shimla
Upon arrival meet & assist at the railway station and transfer to Hotel
Shimla. The ambiance of this hill city attracted the British so much that it seemed justifiable to shift the complete administration of an Empire from Calcutta to Shimla every summer because of its colonial charm, - and cooler air. Overnight stay at Hotel

Day 9: Shimla
This morning you’ll enjoy a Heritage Walk, passing through many historical and Heritage buildings, each possessing a different style of architecture and holding many stories of the past. We stop for a break on the way to give you a closer look at the various architectural sites of the British era. Later you’ll continue your sightseeing of this hill station by visiting the following:
The State Museum (Closed on Mondays): This building was a private residence of Lord William Beresford, the Military Secretary to the viceroys for many years.
The Viceregal Lodge Indian Institute of Advanced Study: The site for Viceregal Lodge was selected by Lord Lytton the Viceroy of India between 1876 -1880.Jakhu Temple and Hill (2455 meters.): This is the town's highest peak and a vantage point for Shimla's famous views. The summit is crowned with a temple dedicated to the monkey God, Hanuman. This also offers a superb view of Shimla and the surrounding snow-capped Himalayan peaks and green pastures.

Day 10: Shimla
This morning you’ll enjoy a fabulous excursion to Kufri & Wildflower Hall Mashobra. Kufri is around 10 miles from Shimla and is a small hill station. Its name means ‘lake’ in the local language.

Day 11 - Shimla to Kalka by surface
Kalka to Delhi by train Shatabadi express:1745-2155 hrs
Transfer from the hotel to Kalka railway station in time to board the train for Delhi. Local snacks, tea or coffee will be served on board
2155 hrs: Arrive in Delhi
Upon arrival at Delhi railway station, you will be transferred to a hotel. Overnight stay at hotel

Day 12 - Depart Delhi
Transfer from the hotel to Delhi airport in time to board your flight.

Offer Includes (Based on minimum 2 persons (per person cost):
* 04 Nights Accommodation on bed and breakfast basis
* All Transfers, sightseeing and Excursion as mentioned in the itinerary
* Entrance fees to the monuments
* Services of Local English Speaking guide as per the itinerary* Train fare for the sector Delhi / Kalka / Dehi by air-conditioned chair car
* Train fare for the sector Kandaghat / Shimla by Non Ac Class

Extension To Sacred Amritsar

Duration - 4 Nights

Prices start from - £435

Hotel Featured or Similar
Hotel Ramada

Day 8: Delhi to Amritsar by train Shatabadi express:0720-1340 hrs
Transfer from hotel to New Delhi railway station in time to board train for Amritsar, Local snacks, tea or coffee will be served on board
1340 hrs: Arrive Amritsar railway
Upon arrival at Amritsar railway station you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Amritsar one of the most ancient and fascinating city of India. It is the holy city of the Sikh community. The famous Golden temple was built between 1589 and 1601 and is a superb synthesis of the Islamic and Hindu styles of architecture. The extraordinary building is fashioned from marble, mirror work and gold, which is beautifully reflected in a stunning expanse of water and best seen in the early morning light. Overnight stay at hotel

Day 9: Amritsar
This morning you’ll explore the spiritual centre of the Sikh religion, - the Golden Temple. This is one of the most spiritual locations and includes the Divine Temple and the Pool of Nectar. The temple kitchen provides amazing meals every day to the thousands of devotees and you will take part in preparing community meals. You’ll then also visit Jallianwala Bagh, the site of an infamous massacre that took place in 1919. Visitors to the Golden Temple must remove their shoes, wash their feet and cover their heads with a scarf. 

In the late afternoon, you will travel to Wagah border, where India meets Pakistan, to watch the Flag ceremony, also known as the ‘beating the retreat’ ceremony. Every day of the year at sunset, the soldiers of both India and Pakistan lower their respective flags in unison.

Day 10: Amritsar
Morning visit Sada Pind (Sada Pind means our village):- At Sadda Pind, you can experience the old-world charm of Punjab through cultural performances, folk dances, local handicrafts, songs, stories and of course, cuisine. Sadda Pind is a fantastic place to connect with the Punjabi roots and experience Punjabi culture around it. It recreates a Punjabi village in the true sense. As a guest, you can see, participate and interact with people from the village and their culture. Sadda Pind has everything to keep you busy and entertained for an entire day. It offers day packages and also stay packages. You can learn a traditional art or create a masterpiece of your own. Phulkari, Punjabi jutti, clay toys and utensils, ironwork, durries, agricultural implements are some of the traditional arts showcased here. Punjab can never be complete without its music and dances. At Sadda Pind, treat your senses to the vibrance and beats of traditional Punjabi folk dances like bhangra, gidha, jhumar and kikli. Afternoon free to explore Amritsar. 

Evening attend the Palki ceremony: The Palki ceremony at the Golden Temple, also known as Harmandir Sahib, is a daily religious procession that takes place within the temple complex. The ceremony involves the carrying of the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of the Sikh faith, from the Akal Takht (the seat of the Sikh temporal authority) to the Harmandir Sahib and vice versa. The Palki is a decorated canopy that is carried by four to six persons, accompanied by a choir of hymn-singers, known as Raagis. The Palki ceremony is an important part of the spiritual experience at the Golden Temple and is considered a deeply moving and awe-inspiring event by those who attend it. For many devotees, participating in the Palki ceremony is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers a unique glimpse into the rich religious traditions of the Sikh faith.

Day 11: Amritsar to Delhi by train Swarn Shatabdi 1650-2250 hrs
Transfer from hotel to Amritsar railway station in time to board the train for Delhi. Local snacks, tea or coffee will be served on board
2250 hrs: Arrive New Delhi railway station
Upon arrival at Delhi railway station you will be met and transferred by our representative to the hotel. Overnight stay at hotel

Day 12: Depart Delhi by flight
Transfer from hotel to Delhi airport in time to board the flight back home.

Offer Includes ( Based on minimum 2 persons (per person cost)
* 04 Nights Accommodation on bed and breakfast basis
* All Transfers, sightseeing and Excursion as mentioned in the itinerary
* Entrance fees to the monuments
* Services of Local English Speaking guide as per the itinerary
* Train fare for the sector Delhi / Amritsar / Delhi by air-conditioned chair car

Extension To Kerala

Duration - 7 Nights

Prices start from - £1275

Hotels Featured or Similar
Cochin - Dutch Bungalow
Munnar - Panoramic Getaway
Thekkady - Cardamom country
Alleppey - Houseboat

Day 08: Delhi - Cochin by flight
Arrive Cochin – the Gateway to Kerala was once an important spice-trading route on Arabian Sea where Vasco D Gama landed in 1498 and boasted that he had come for soul and spices. Cochin is virtually the spice capital of the world from where Portuguese were exporting 10,000 kilos of spices to east-indies and other countries and has derived its name from Calico-the famous fabric manufactured in this town. Cochin also forms part of the emerald isle of India. The Harbour Cruise of Cochin is very popular. With one of the finest natural harbours in the world, Cochin was once a major center for commerce and trade with the British, Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, and Dutch etc. Upon arrival at Cochin airport transfer to Hotel – 1400 Hrs: standard check in time
Overnight stay at Hotel

Day 09: Cochin
After breakfast proceed to visit the Dutch Palace (Closed on Friday) – The place has a fine collection of mural paintings depicting the scenes from the Hindu epics Mahabharata & Ramayana, Jewish Synagogue (Closed on Friday & Saturday) – the oldest synagogue in the world is magnificently decorated by Chinese tiles and Belgian chandeliers, was built in 1568. St. Francis Church: is the oldest church built by Europeans in India & Huge, elegant Chinese fishing nets that line the tip of Fort Kochi. 

Evening you will Witness the Kathakali Dance Show. Kathakali is the classical dance-drama of Kerala dates from the 17th century. Kathakali recitals are drama and are danced with elaborate masks and costumes. They are emotive and narrative, while other dance forms have either one of them. The dancers use their stunning costumes and make-up, with the accompaniment of drums and vocalists, to create various moods and emotions. Overnight stay at Hotel

Day 10: Cochin to Munnar by surface (Approx. 145 Kms, 4-5 Hrs)
After breakfast check out from Hotel and drive from Cochin to Munnar - one of the most popular hill stations in India is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams - Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. Located at 1600 Mts. above sea level, this was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India.
Upon arrival at Munnar, check in at Hotel
Overnight at Hotel

Day 11: Munnar
Morning enjoy sightseeing trip of Munnar – covering – Mattupetty Lake & Dam, Echo Point, Kundale Lake, Blossom Garden, Rajamalai – offering a spectacular view, home of Nilgiri Thar( very rare mountain goat), considering the ecological faunal, floral, geomorphological and zoological significant & Tea Plantation. Rest of the day at leisure and Overnight stay at Hotel

Day 12: Munnar to Periyar by surface (Approx. 135 Kms, 4 Hrs)
After breakfast check out from Hotel and drive from Munnar to Periyar - The scenic drive takes you through green hills with forests, plantations of tea, spices and rubber, streams and waterfalls. Upon arrival at Periyar, check in at Hotel
Overnight stay at Hotel

Day 13: Periyar
In the morning take a boat ride on the lake in the Periyar National Park, a ‘Project Tiger’ reserve. A boat ride is the only way to observe closely the giant of Periyar – Elephants and Gaurs (The giant Indian Bison) without disturbing them on their way (Subject to availability)
In the afternoon visit plantations of tea, cardamom, and pepper
Overnight stay at Hotel

Day 14: Periyar to Alleppey by surface (Approx. 135 Kms, 3 Hrs)
After breakfast check out from the Hotel and drive from Periyar to Alleppey embark Houseboat – The Kettuvallam - the typical House Boats. Houseboats are traditional country boats, which used to carry tons of cargo in the backwater region in ancient times, have now been converted with one or two bed rooms with an attached bath, kitchenette and a sitting area. (Lunch and Dinner). Overnight on board

Day 15: Alleppey to Cochin airport
After breakfast disembark the houseboat and drive to Cochin airport in time to board flight for onward journey.

Offer Includes ( Based on minimum 2 persons (per person cost)* Domestic flight for the sector Delhi / Cochin in Economy class including fares and all current taxes to-date
* 06 Nights Accommodation on bed and breakfast basis
* 01 Night Accommodation on Full board at Houseboat
* All Transfers, sightseeing and Excursion as mentioned in the itinerary
* Entrance fees to the monuments
* Services of Local English Speaking guide as per the itinerary* Kathakali dance show in Cochin
* Common boat ride at Lake Periyar

Offer Includes

Meal Plans