My experience on a Golden Triangle group tour
If you’re dreaming of a trip packed with vibrant culture, awe-inspiring history, and dazzling colours, the Golden Triangle in India is the place to be. In February, I set off on a journey that whisked me through Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur—a classic route renowned for its iconic sights, rich traditions, and unforgettable moments. I chose a group tour to ensure I was immersed in the real India, and this was achieved through our amazing tour leader Antika. She also made sure I ate safely, as I have a nut allergy and was very nervous, especially in Delhi where everything has a cashew nut base!
From Bustling Delhi to Timeless Agra My adventure began in Delhi, a city that draws you in immediately with its intoxicating blend of chaos and charm. Wandering through the bustling markets of Chandni Chowk, I was engulfed by a swirl of spices, incense and laughter—a living tapestry woven over centuries. Don’t miss the magnificent Red Fort and the imposing Jama Masjid, where sunrise prayers echo through marble courtyards. The Qutub Minar stands sentinel over the city’s southern edge, its intricate sandstone carvings testament to Delhi’s layered past. It's as crazy as you imagine, with so much to take in.
A tranquil stroll through the gardens of Humayun’s Tomb felt like stepping into a Mughal fairy tale, while the solemn grandeur of India Gate provided a poignant reminder of national pride and sacrifice. It’s a city that pulses with contrasts: ancient temples beside gleaming skyscrapers, street food stalls tucked beneath colonial-era hotels, and every journey a sensory adventure!
Then, it was onwards by road (or for the adventurous, a smooth express train) to Agra, home to the spellbinding Taj Mahal. Few things can prepare you for the moment the marble first glows pink at sunrise—go early as the mist lifts and the crowds are fewer for a truly magical experience. The Agra Fort, with its red sandstone ramparts and opulent palaces, told tales of Mughal emperors and epic intrigue, and offered sweeping views across to the Taj itself.
For those who love hidden gems, the "Baby Taj" (Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah) is exquisite and often blissfully quiet. I highly recommend a sunset amble through Mehtab Bagh gardens, perfectly aligned across the river for golden-hour photography and serene reflection.
The Pink City Awaits Jaipur, the Pink City, swept me off my feet with its blend of regal splendour and kaleidoscopic street life. The Amber Fort, perched high above the city, rewarded us with breathtaking views and tales of Rajput bravery. Explore the City Palace—a living royal residence—and lose yourself in the delicate lattice windows of Hawa Mahal, designed for royal ladies to observe the city’s vibrant processions.
Don’t miss the cosmic wonder of Jantar Mantar, an ancient observatory with gigantic sundials and astronomical instruments that are still eerily precise. As the sun dipped, I savoured the panoramic vistas from Nahargarh Fort—there’s something truly special about watching Jaipur’s sprawl glow beneath you as the sky shifts from peach to electric pink.
A hot air balloon at sunrise over Jaipur was one of my trip highlights, and a beautiful memory I will treasure forever.
Beyond the must-sees, Jaipur is a shopper’s paradise. I haggled for block-printed fabrics, chunky silver jewellery, and hand-carved souvenirs in the old bazaars, all while sipping fragrant masala chai.
Why February is Perfect Travelling in February means cooler days and clear, blue skies—it’s an ideal time to sightsee without wilting in the midday sun. Key sites are less crowded too, making for a relaxed pace and calmer photo backdrops. If you love local festivals, you might even catch Jaipur’s literary or cultural events which often fall in February.
Top Tips for a Golden Triangle Adventure Book Early for Iconic Experiences: Sunrise Taj Mahal tickets and rooftop dining in Jaipur fill up quickly—pre-book where possible! Dress the Part: Lightweight layers and a scarf are perfect for temple visits. Stylish, comfy shoes are a must for exploring forts and old cities. Travel in Style: Upgrade to a private car and driver for comfort and flexibility between cities, or ask your Travel Counsellor for express train bookings. Culinary Delights: Take a street food tour in Delhi, savour Mughal thalis in Agra, and try Rajasthani specialities like laal maas curry in Jaipur. Enhance with Extras: Add a pottery workshop in Jaipur, high tea at the Taj’s Oberoi Amarvilas, or a guided art walk through Delhi for unforgettable local flavour. Would I Recommend the Golden Triangle? Absolutely! If you’re longing to dive into history, taste vibrant curries, and collect stories for a lifetime, the Golden Triangle is unmissable. Whether you join a seamless private tour or create your own adventure, you’ll come away inspired—and very well-fed! Pack your camera, your sense of wonder, and perhaps a roomy bag for all those market treasures. India’s Golden Triangle awaits, and I can’t recommend it enough.
Dreaming of your own journey through India’s Golden Triangle, or crafting the perfect experience for your clients? Contact me to plan every detail with Travel Counsellors’ signature care and local expertise