Flavors of India's Golden Triangle

Flavors of India's Golden Triangle

Experience a taste of India on this outstanding introductory tour of the country’s most delicious destinations. Exploring the Golden Triangle, this journey combines travelling from the India’s capital city Delhi to the wondrous sites of the Mughal capital of Agra, the legendary Fatehpur Sikri and the Pink City of Jaipur. Savour the flavour and spirit of this astonishing land of contrasts.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Visit Qutub Complex illuminated at night
• Enjoy a heritage walk through the bustling bylanes of Chandni Chowk
• Visit the UNESCO listed Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi
• Pay tribute to the world’s most revered monument of love, the Taj Mahal
• Visit Agra’s local market and witness marble inlay work demonstration
• Visit the heritage site of Fatehpur Sikri, a Mughal marvel
• Marvel at the ancient step well in Abhaneri
• Explore the majestic Amber Fort and Palace of Winds, Hawa Mahal

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Delhi

Stop At: Qutub Minar, Qutb Minar, Mehrauli, New Delhi 110030 India
Arrive in Delhi. Following customs, immigration formalities and baggage collection, our representative will meet you as you exit the arrival terminal building, after which you will be transferred to your hotel for 2 nights stay. Check-in time is 1500 hours.
Rest of the day is at leisure to unwind and relax in the comforts of your hotel.
Delhi - India’s capital and a major gateway to the country, contemporary Delhi is a bustling metropolis, which successfully combines in its folds – the ancient with the modern. Amidst the fast spiralling skyscrapers, the remnants of a bygone time, in the form of its many monuments, stand as silent reminders to the region’s ancient legacy.

In the evening enjoy a guided tour of illuminated Qutub Complex. One of the historic buildings in Delhi Qutub Minar was built about 1000 years ago. This tower 73 meters high looks like the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Qutub Minar built by Red Sandstone is also India's tallest tower.
Later enjoy a sumptuous dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight stay at hotel – Delhi
Duration: 1 hour

Meals included:
• Dinner: Evening enjoy a sumptuous dinner at a local restaurantin Delhi
Accommodation included: Overnight at homestay (Haveli Hauz Khas or similar)

Day 2: Delhi

Stop At: Raj Ghat, Mahatma Gandhi Road, New Delhi 110002 India
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and proceed on a guided tour of Old Delhi. In Old Delhi, drive past the Red Fort; visit Raj Ghat, the simple but moving memorial to Mahatma Gandhi
Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, Delhi 110006, India
Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in Asia.
Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Khari Baoli, India
A short walk in the narrow bylanes is full of legends and unfolds many historic tales of Shajahanbad. See the quaint shops with incredible wares from food stalls to jewelry. Visit to Khari Baoli -known for its wholesale grocery and Asia's largest wholesale spice market selling all kinds of spices, nuts, herbs and food products like rice and tea.
Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Humayun's Tomb, Mathura Road Opp Nizamuddin Mosque, New Delhi 110013 India
After lunch get ready to explore UNESCO World Heritage listed tomb of Emperor Humayun. The tomb was the first garden tomb in the Indian subcontinent, a wonderful example of early Mughal architecture. End the tour with a drive past the imposing India Gate (War Memorial Arch), Parliament buildings and Rashtrapati Bhawan (the President’s residence).

Overnight stay at hotel – Delhi (B, L)

Duration: 1 hour

Meals included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
Accommodation included: Overnight at homestay (Haveli Hauz Khas or similar)

Day 3: Delhi to Agra by train Gatimaan Express-12050 Departure from Delhi at 0810 hrs / Arrival Agra at 0950 hrs

Stop At: Agra Fort Rakabgani, Agra 282003 India
Upon arrival at Agra railway station, you will be met and assisted with transfer to your hotel for a stay of 1 night.
Agra- The city of Agra, the quintessence of the grand Mughal era, reigns to this day in the public mind as the embodiment of royal grace, imposing architecture and power. No tour to India can be complete without paying a visit to this erstwhile capital of the Mughal and the city of the Taj Mahal, the world's most beloved monument.
In the afternoon enjoy a guided tour of the massive red sandstone Agra Fort, a World Heritage Site, is a hilltop citadel with fabulous courtyards, fountains and gates and the best example of Mughal Civil Architecture commissioned by Akbar. Built in 1565, this powerful fortress overlooks the Taj Mahal and Yamuna River and incorporates within its 2.5 km enclosure walls, an enormous complex of courtly buildings reflecting the grandeur of the Mughal Empire.
Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Mehtab Bagh, Nagla Devjit Etmadpur, Agra India
Late afternoon a guided tour of Old city of Agra, on this walking tour visit Dara Shikoh's library, Mirza Ghalib's birthplace, the headquarters of the Radhasoami faith, the ancient Manka Meshwar temple, the Jama Masjid, and churches of different Christian sects, St. Patrick's Junior College - Asia's oldest convent and the Akbar Church. On the way see the bustle at the shoe mandi in Johri Bazar, the paan and the petha mandi and the food street of Seth Gali. Later at sunset, explore the exquisite Mehtab Bagh, the manicured garden, a part of the Taj Complex with a local guide. This classical Mughal garden with some of the aesthetically chosen trees and the octagonal pond is the representation of Jannat (paradise) on earth and offers magnificent views of the Taj Mahal.
Duration: 2 hours

Meals included:
• Breakfast
Accommodation included: Overnight at homestay (The Coral Tree or similar)

Day 4: Agra to Jaipur

Stop At: Taj Mahal, Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Tajganj, Agra 282001 India
Wake up early for your sunrise visit to the mesmerizing Taj Mahal (Remain closed on Fridays). Referred to as one of the wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal in Agra is the epitome of tourism in India and is celebrated for its architectural magnificence and aesthetic beauty. A symphony in white marble, a tribute to eternal love, it was built by the Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. One of the universally admired masterpieces of the world’s heritage, the Taj Mahal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It is an iconic example of Mughal architecture and an eternal testament to the artistic and scientific accomplishments of a wealthy empire.
Duration: 2 hours

Stop At: Fatehpur Sikri India
Return to your hotel for breakfast.

Following breakfast, you will be driven to the pink city of Jaipur (237 km / 06 hours approx) en-route visiting Akbar’s abandoned capital, Fatehpur Sikri.

Located 40 km from Agra, Akbar’s abandoned capital, Fatehpur Sikri is a perfect example of fusion between the Hindu figurative decoration and the Mughal geometrical patterns. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, it was built during the second half of the 16th century in honour of the Sufi saint, Sheikh Salim Chisti, who blessed the emperor with a son. This first planned city of the Mughals comprised of beautiful religious, administrative and residential buildings, all built in a uniform architectural style.

On arrival in Jaipur, check into the hotel for 3 nights. Evening is free for individual activities

Jaipur, one of the most enticing places in India, is nestled between mighty forts and the rugged Aravalli Hills. It is known as ‘the pink city’ as its prominent buildings are washed in this colour. Founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh in 1727, Jaipur is steeped in Rajput history and is characterized by sites such as the City Palace with its astronomical Observatory, Hawa Mahal and the beautiful Amber Fort. Jaipur is a bustling capital city and a business centre with all the trappings of a modern metropolis yet flavoured strongly with an age-old charm that never fails to surprise a traveller.

Duration: 1 minute

Meals included:
• Breakfast
Accommodation included: Overnight stay at homestay (Dera Rawatsar or similar)

Day 5: Jaipur

Stop At: Amber Fort, Amer, Jaipur 302001 India
After breakfast at the hotel, proceed to visit the magnificent Amber Fort and surroundings. Also included is a photo visit at the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) - a five-storied wonder with a spectacular pyramidal facade and overhanging windows with latticed screens, domes and spires.

Situated on a ridge on the outskirts of the city, the fort-palace complex of Amber (also known as Amer) is surrounded by fortified battlements overlooking the Maota Lake. Known for its artistic style, it blends both Hindu and Mughal elements, as seen in its large ramparts, monuments and series of imposing gates and cobbled pathways. Highlights include the Shila Devi Temple (dedicated to goddess Kali) with its silver doors, the glass mosaics of the Mirror Palace and the filigreed marble windows in the Jas Mandir.
Later, in the evening, you will meet and interact with a noble family of Jaipur over a cooking demonstration and meal. The symbol of Rajasthan’s royal culture, these families reflect an exceptional past of living with an elaborate code of honour and chivalry. Witness the play of spices and flavors at a cooking demonstration by a culinary expert. Dishes like Dal Bhati Churma (traditional pulses and bread), Laal Maas (mutton dish), Bhoondo raita and pulao (rice dish) are some of the delectable items that may be prepared. Observe the distinct cooking style, method and ingredients used. Learn the properties of every spice and the role it plays in producing the desired taste. Later, savor a perfect Rajasthani meal with your host.
Duration: 2 hours

Meals included:
• Breakfast
• Dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight stay at homestay (Dera Rawatsar or similar)

Day 6: Jaipur

Stop At: Sanganeri Gate, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302007, India
After breakfast at the hotel, proceed on a walking tour of Bazaars and Culinary delights of Old Jaipur. Start your tour from Sanganeri Gate as you walk through the colourful fruit and vegetable market and bustling alleyways of original havelis, many still inhabited by traditional merchant families. Stop at the family owned temple of Siddhi Ganesh dedicated to Lord Ganesh symbol of good luck in Hinduism. Observe intricate gold painting and enamelling work on marble by a local artist. See ‘gota‘embroidery (gold and silver thread embroidery) work applied to saris and traditional Indian clothes. Visit a President’s award winning fifth generation Meenakari craftsman in his workshop. Join him for tea in his 200-year-old residence, a direct descendant from the family of chief hakims (physicians) who served the Emperors during the Mughal Dynasty. His traditional haveli resplendent with fine chandeliers, period furniture and traditional carpets is a highlight of the walk. For foodies Ghee Walon ka Rasta an entire street dedicated to eating is heaven! Sample a large variety of Indian savoury snacks including samosa, kachories and pakoras. Continue to Gopal Ji Ka Rasta, the centre of Jaipur’s famous jewellery shops is home to many wealthy merchants, always teaming with bargain hunters.
Duration: 2 hours

Stop At: City Palace of Jaipur, Tripolia Bazar Near Jantar Mantar, Jaipur 3023002 India
Later visit the City Palace Museum, which has a superb collection of Rajasthani costumes, and armoury of Mughals and Rajputs including swords of different shapes and sizes with chiseled handles. Many antiques and artefacts belonging to the ruling family are housed here, including a collection of weaponry. It also has an art gallery with an excellent collection of miniature paintings, carpets, royal paraphernalia and rare astronomical works in Arabic, Persian, Latin and Sanskrit.
Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Jantar Mantar - Jaipur, Tripoliya Bazaar near entrance to City Palace, Jaipur 302020 India
Proceed to the awe inspiring Jantar Mantar Observatory, a stone astrological and astronomical Observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh in the 18th century.

Enjoy free time for shopping in the old bazaars.

Overnight stay at hotel – Jaipur (B, D)

Duration: 1 hour

Meals included:
• Breakfast
• Dinner: Enjoy a nutritious and delicious meal at AhimnsaGram.At AhimsaGram, food is a medium to bond, connect, talk and resolve.
Accommodation included: Overnight stay at homestay (Dera Rawatsar or similar)

Day 7: Jaipur to Delhi

Pass By: Neemra, Rajasthan, India
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel. Check-out and proceed on your drive to Delhi (260 Kms / approx. 6 hours) and upon arrival Delhi transfer to the hotel and check into the hotel for 1 night. Evening is free for individual activities

Overnight stay at hotel – Delhi (B)


Meals included:
• Breakfast
Accommodation included: Overnight at homestay (The Estate Villa or similar)

Day 8: Departure Delhi

Stop At: New Delhi, New Delhi, National Capital Territory of Delhi
This morning, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey. (B)
Duration: 10 minutes

No meals included on this day.
No accommodation included on this day.