Travel Guide to India’s Golden Triangle for Beginners

By Two Monkeys Travel - Contributor October 6th, 2018 15 Comments

Planning a trip to India can be pretty daunting. Its preserved culture and diversity remains a deep mystery yet somehow draws travelers into this magical country. A lot of visitors are taken aback by India’s immensity which is why it’s always better to plan ahead of time. If you’re traveling for the first time, the best way is to discover the country gradually, beginning with the famed Golden Triangle.

The Golden Triangle consists of three metropolitans: New Delhi, Agra, and Rajasthan. When you look at the Indian map, these three cities form a triangle and can be easily linked by land. This 750 km route is commonly embarked by tourists due to its simplicity.

GUIDE TO DELHI, INDIA

The starting point of this journey in New Delhi. It’s not only conveniently located in the center but also happens to be India’s capital. So make sure you take a flight to Indira Gandhi International Airport and prepare to unravel India’s mysteries.

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Where to Stay?

Fortunately, Delhi offers an array of options for budget travelers. If you haven’t booked anything in advance, you can choose from Mahipalpur’s wide selection of hotels. It’s a few minutes’ drive from the airport, and you’ll surely be accommodated regardless of the season.

However, it’s recommended to have a booking in advance as you might just be lost in the city’s mad traffic jams and dense population. But don’t be fooled, beneath the chaos lies a treasure waiting to be revealed.

Other options:

Budget – Hotel Livasa Inn

Middle – Grand Notting Hills Hotel and Resort

Splurge – The Leela Palace

What to Do?

Dilli Haat – A bazaar in Delhi where you can find all traditional crafts such as Tribal Paper Mache, Madhubani Paintings, Hand-made bags, etc. This shopping center became an immediate hit with tourists after Hilary Clinton visited in 2009. Perfect for souvenirs.

Entrance Fee: 30 RS for Indians / 100 RS for Foreigners

The Lotus Temple – The architecture of this sacred place is something you shouldn’t miss. Built in 1986, the building is constructed like a flower – consisting of 27 flower petals made of marbles. Since it’s a Bahá’í Houses of Worship, you can enter the sanctuary, breathe in the tranquillity and stroll around the polished garden for free!

Hauz Khas Complex – If you’re doing the Golden Triangle tour, there might not be enough time to truly engross yourself into the city’s exquisiteness. Hauz Khas is a village of beautiful ancient ruins of mosques and tombs. This area of Delhi would profoundly feed your photographer soul.

Where to Eat?

Because it’s the capital of the country, finding all types of cuisine is a child’s play. Indulge in organic and seasonal food at Lodi – The Garden Restaurant and enjoy the 90 acres garden as a bonus.

Delhi’s street food is exceptional. One can survive on it so long as you pack a bag of antibiotics. Pro tip: Have the Kathi Rolls and Samosas at the nation’s pride, Bikanervala.
Embassy, Potbelly Rooftop Café, Elma’s Bakery and Le Bistro du Parc are perfect if you’re looking for mid-ranged, good meals!
Leela’s Le Cirque serves one of the best Italian and Continental cuisines in the city. You can pamper yourself with their steak and wine but be careful as it might leave a hole in your pocket!

You can spend at least two days in Delhi before heading to Agra.

GUIDE TO AGRA, INDIA

230Km away from the hustle bustle of Delhi, Agra’s charm attracts tourists like a flower’s nectar to a butterfly. People come to Agra for one reason: The noble Taj Mahal. Upon arrival, they discover much more than they expected to see. To avoid disappointments during a trip to Taj Mahal, read this guide to plan your perfect Taj Mahal tour.

You can choose to rent a car, board a train or take the coach to reach Agra from Delhi as its only 3 and half hours away by land or 2 hours by train (Shaitabdi Express).