The Golden Triangle, An Architectural Marvel

  • India

Overview

The Golden Triangle features some of the most stunning architecture in the world. From the awe-inspiring beauty of the world-famous Taj Mahal to the oddly unique layout of the Jantar Mantar observatory, you’ll discover many fascinating designs from the age of the Mughal Empire. This adventure is complete with visits to local markets, delicious, local cuisine; & a marble inlay workshop.

Highlights

  • Rickshaw Ride – Cycle down Old Delhi’s well-known Chandni Chowk. Experience a bustling Indian marketplace as the locals do.
  • Raj Ghat – Memorial honoring Mahatma Gandhi.
  • Taj Mahal – Mausoleum built by a 17th-century Mughal emperor in Agra.
  • Henna Art – Observe authentic henna painting.
  • Amber Fort – Hill-top fortress famous for its mirror décor.
  • Marble Inlay Workshop – Learn about the Taj Mahal’s structure & design.

Itinerary

Day 1: Delhi

Arrive at the airport, & transfer to the hotel. Enjoy a welcome dinner this evening.

Day 2: Delhi

Discover both Old & New Delhi today. Learn about the Mughal Empire during a visit to the 17th-century mosque, Jama Masjid. Hop on the local tricycle, or rickshaw, & maneuver your way down Chandni Chowk. You’ll enjoy riding down this crowded street, passing by an assortment of edible & material goods. Later you’ll say goodbye to Old Delhi, & head for the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort. Afterward, visit New Delhi, where you’ll see the India Gate, the presidential palace, the parliament house, & Raj Ghat, a memorial for world-renowned figure, Mahatma Gandhi. Other highlights of today’s tour include the celebrated Qutub Minar, & Humayun's Tomb. Return to the hotel for dinner & an overnight stay.

Day 3: Delhi – Agra

Leave Delhi for Agra after breakfast this morning. Home to the Taj Mahal, this Indian city is an architecture lover’s dreamland. Upon arrival, you’ll first tour the Agra Fort. The entryway of this UNESCO World Heritage Site is almost overwhelming; an enormous structure of bold, burnt-red brick. Later today you will learn about the Taj Mahal’s structure & design at a marble inlay workshop. Enjoy dinner & an overnight stay at the hotel in Agra.

Day 4: Agra – Jaipur 

After having learned about one of the world’s most famous buildings, you’ll go to see it – bright & early. After the guided tour of the Taj Mahal, enjoy breakfast. Check out of the hotel, & travel to Jaipur afterward. Along the way you will see the grand Fatehpur Sikri Palace, & learn about its short-lived inhabitance. Enjoy dinner & an overnight stay in Jaipur.

Day 5: Jaipur

This morning you’ll have the opportunity to admire another one of the country’s masterpieces of architecture & design, the Amber Fort. Graced with colorful, interior & exterior designs, this 16th-century, hill-top edifice offers another walk back in time - to the age of the Mughal Empire. Highlights of the Fort include Sheesh Mahal, the room filled with mirrors. Enjoy watching authentic Henna painting in Jaipur’s old town, & spend time shopping for local handicrafts. Later today you’ll visit City Palace, & see the peculiar-shaped Jantar Mantar observatory.

Day 6: Jaipur – Delhi – USA

Spend the morning at leisure. After lunch, return to the airport in Delhi to board flight home.