Nothing can beat road trips when it comes to getting the real taste of travel. Thanks to its diverse landscapes and mix of cultures, India offers a variety of destinations where you can travel by road and explore the scenic beauty this country has to offer.
Now, if you are thinking of going on a road trip that will take you through India’s history and architectural wonders, exploring the Golden Triangle can be a splendid idea. You can easily do it in a car, and it will take you 5 days to complete the entire trip.
Keep reading to learn more.
What is the Golden Triangle?
The Golden Triangle encompasses 3 of India’s most visited cities – Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. Located in the country’s northeast, these three cities form a rough triangle and are approximately 200 km away from each other.
This route is called “golden” as it is one of India’s most famous tourist trails and consists of some of the country’s most spectacular historical sights. It also takes you through India’s capital (Delhi) and two states, Uttar Pradesh (for Agra) and Rajasthan (for Jaipur), enabling you to experience a diverse range of cultures.
Exploring the Golden Triangle: A 5-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Exploring Delhi
When in Delhi, there is a long list of historical sites that can take you on a ride through India’s yesteryears. Among them, the Red Fort, India Gate, and Rajpath (now Kartavya Path) are worth mentioning.
Now, if you wish to view some of the wonders of Mughal Architecture, the Qutub Minar, Jama Masjid, and Humayun’s Tomb are must-visits. After this, you can explore the lanes of Chandni Chowk, shop around its numerous markets and try out the various food delicacies that it has to offer.
Day 2: Going Towards Agra
On Day 2, you can head out to Agra. It usually takes about 4 hours via car, and once you get out of the city and onto the highway, the traffic usually thins out.
If you start out early, you can easily reach by mid-day, take some rest at a hotel and visit the Agra Fort. Built by the Emperor Akbar in the mid-16th century, the Agra Fort holds stories comprising a large part of Mughal history.
Within the fort‘s complex, there are several independent buildings. Among them, the Anguri Bagh, made completely out of white marble, is worth mentioning.
After this, you can book your tickets to visit the Taj Mahal (in case you already haven’t).
Day 3: Visiting the Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri
On Day 3, consider getting up a bit early. Seeing the Taj Mahal in all its glory is one thing, but watching the grand monument as the sun rises is just something else. Consider entering through the Imperial Gate (Western Gate). It is generally used by the locals and thus stays less crowded.
Remember, the Taj Mahl is closed on Fridays.
After this, you can head towards Fatehpur Sikri, which is located 37 km away from Agra. The city is chiefly built of red sandstone and features the unique Mughal architectural style. It also houses the Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque.
When you are done, you can set out for Jaipur, which is around 4 hours via car. On the way, you can also visit the Chand Bawri Step Well. It is not far off the highway and is an astonishing architectural feat, making it a must-visit.
Day 4: Touring Jaipur
Jaipur (the Pink City) is among the world’s best-planned old cities. Like Delhi, you can go on a shopping spree at the various bazaars present around the city and indulge in some Rajasthani handicrafts.
There are several exceptional places to visit in Jaipur. The centre of attraction of this city is the City Palace. It has several buildings within its complex like the Chandra Mahal, Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas and the Mubarak Mahal, all showcasing a fusion of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles.
Day 5: Amer Fort and Driving to Delhi
On day 5, you can consider visiting the Amer Fort. It’s a 40-minute drive from Jaipur, standing high up in the mountains, offering incredible views. If you decide to drive up with your car, you will arrive at the Moon Gate, and if you choose to ride an elephant, you will be dropped at the Sun Gate.
The palace showcases traditional Mughal architecture, where the gates are covered with intricate patterns from top to bottom and inlaid with various precious and semi-precious stones.
You can pay the Anokhi Museum a visit when descending to Amer. After that, Delhi is just a 4-hour drive away.
Additional Travel Essentials You Need Before the Trip
- Proper condition of your car: Before starting your journey, be sure your car is in optimum working condition, with all the parts properly serviced to avoid any unforeseen breakdown.
- Valid car insurance: Do not forget to check if you have valid car insurance before heading out. It can come in convenient in providing financial cover in case of unforeseen mishaps. If you don’t have one, you can compare different types of car insurance online and choose an appropriate one.
- Carry emergency cash: You never know when an emergency situation pops up in the middle of your road trip, especially when you are crossing the state border. Therefore, carry emergency cash with you besides debit and credit cards.
- Have emergency contacts: For added safety, share your travel plans with someone for safety and keep emergency contacts that are easily accessible.
- Carry vehicle essentials: It would be ideal if you carry some essential items in your car, such as a phone charger and car adapter.
Now, there are several other places you can visit at your convenience while exploring the Golden Triangle. Consider researching the opening and closing times of the places you decide to visit so that you can arrange your itinerary accordingly.
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