Golden adventures
India’s ‘Golden Triangle’ region consists of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. The three most visited cities in the country’s northwest, with distances of between 125 miles (201km) and 155 miles (249km) separating them, are rich in culture, history and beauty. By Indian standards (it’s a big country), these incredible locations are relatively close together, which means a trip covering all of them can be a great option for first-time visitors looking to cross some things off their bucket list.
Here, Features Editor Jack Clayton reveals 21 ways to make an adventure in India’s Golden Triangle unforgettable for all the right reasons…
1. Get a lift from Women With Wheels
When it comes to taxis and transfers in the Golden Triangle, Women With Wheels will help you out. One of many excellent community tourism projects supported by Planeterra, the initiative has trained over 1,190 drivers to date. In doing so, it’s challenged outdated social norms and promoted economic independence for marginalised women by providing them with a steady line of work. Masters of navigating India’s chaotic traffic, they’ll pick you up from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport when you arrive and drop you off at Jaipur International Airport come journey’s end.
2. Treat yourself to the Maidens Hotel
Built in 1903, the luxurious Maidens is a window into a bygone era and one of Delhi’s oldest and grandest hotels. This legendary 5-star establishment, famed for its elegance and hospitality, is the ultimate place to stay if you’re after some next-level comfort in a historic setting. Once you’ve finished unwinding in the lavish rooms and recovering from your flight by the lovely outdoor swimming pool, head out to explore some of the famous Delhi attractions, such as Jama Masjid and the Red Fort, situated nearby.
3. Go two streets over
When questioned about overtourism at the GX India World Community Tourism Summit in 2024, Lonely Planet co-founder Tony Wheeler told the audience: “Go two streets over” to find the hidden gems. There’s plenty of chance to do this in a place as vast as the Golden Triangle, with its labyrinthine cities, but naturally some travellers might be wary of doing so without a guide. The Salaam Baalak Trust, an NGO supporting street children, runs authentic city walks that not only serve up a different perspective on Delhi but also make a positive impact on the lives of its young people.
4. Eat well in Delhi
You’ll come across so many restaurants and street food outlets in Delhi that it might be difficult working out where to start (especially if you’re anxious over the dreaded stomach condition known as ‘Delhi Belly’). Those looking to explore the city and experience the best of the vibrant culinary scene of Old Delhi should consider booking spots on a Salaam Baalak Trust City Food Walk. Fancy something a little bit more, well, fancy? Head to the grand setting of Kwality, an iconic 80-year-old restaurant on Parliament Street where you can get stuck into the delicious flavours of North Indian cuisine in a luxurious setting.
5. When in Agra, wake up early for the Taj Mahal
With the Taj Mahal known to attract eight million visitors every year, travellers can often face stiff competition when it comes to the iconic landmark’s prime photography spots (like the Princess Diana bench). To capture the world’s most famous mausoleum at its most beautiful, and in a way that won’t involve you getting tangled up with a bunch of other elbows, set your alarm clock and be at the front of the queue when the gates open 30 minutes before sunrise.
6. See the Taj Mahal like you’ve never seen it before
Considering it’s quite possibly the most famous building on the planet, you might be wondering why you’ve never seen pictures of the Taj Mahal’s interior. The reason is simple: no photographs are allowed inside the mausoleum. Built by Shah Jahan in the 17th century as a tribute to Mumtaz Mahal, his dead wife and mother of 14 children, be sure to seize the day and see the stunning structure up close and from new angles. Admire its architecture, study its near-perfect symmetry (Shah Jahan’s cenotaph is positioned just west of the central axis, throwing off the equilibrium) and watch its marble reflect different colours depending on what time of day it is.
7. Stop in at Sheroes (and be inspired)
Supported by Planeterra and G Adventures, Sheroes Hangout is the world’s first café run by acid attack survivors. When in Agra, make sure you stop off at this inspiring establishment to enjoy a hot drink (cold drinks are also available) and a bit of food. This wonderful community tourism spot challenges stigmas, helps women from disadvantaged backgrounds with their recovery and aids them in their pursuit of justice. You can’t help but be inspired by the resilience and strength of the women who work here. Pop in, hear their story and support their cause. It’s certainly a better use of your time than a visit to Starbucks.
8. Enjoy a spot of luxury (in nature)
After the hustle and bustle of Delhi, followed by the breathtaking beauty of the Taj Mahal in Agra, what better way to unwind than with a spot of nature and luxury? Just 34 miles (55km) south of Agra, you’ll find the historic city of Dholpur and the famous Chambal River. It’s here where you’ll also come across the idyllic Narsingh Bagh Resort, a little slice of paradise to relax in while surrounded by the flora and fauna of the Ramsagar Wildlife Sanctuary. Watch out for crocodiles on a river boat safari (keep those hands in), go bird-spotting on a bicycle and sleep in charming stone cottages. G Adventures has this one in its Geluxe Collection as an ‘OMG Stay’.
