The Golden Triangle offers a diverse experience, encompassing the political and cultural heart of India (Delhi), the symbol of eternal love (Taj Mahal in Agra), and the regal splendor of Rajasthan (Jaipur). Traveling this circuit provides a comprehensive overview of India's rich history, architecture, and cultural heritage.

Scroll down to the bottom for a complete itinerary.

You will sign up to the right ➡️ and make deposit on this platform.

As you are looking into flights, you must consider them arriving into India on the same date from 9AM - midnight. This will be quite comfortable for you as the room will be available from 14:00hrs (standard time of check-in). Our team is at the airport round the clock to facilitate you and make sure that you are met and comfortable transferred to your hotel. 

All the direct flights from the USA arrive late evening here in Delhi international airport and you reach your hotel around midnight when the room is available for check-in.

And on 27 Jan: 

Please look at flights that are departing later in the night or early hours of 28 Jan. That will be convenient for you as you may use the lounge (if required and on direct payment basis)

"This trip is non-refundable"  means that if you choose to cancel or change your plans for any reason, you will not receive a refund for the money you've paid toward the trip.

We recommend a third party travel insurance called Allianz.

You can get a quote from this link and buy directly from ALLIANZ, our preferred insurance provider. 

Maximum benefits of travel insurance are availablewhen purchased same day as the initial trip deposit.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation, as medical evacuations can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Payment will be expected in cash before the medevac can take place, if there is no insurance coverage. Neither the U.S. Embassy nor the U.S. government pays private medical bills overseas.

Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.

Travel insurance is an essential safeguard for any traveler, offering peace of mind and financial protection against unforeseen circumstances. Whether embarking on a short weekend getaway or an extended international adventure, travel insurance provides coverage for a range of mishaps, including trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and flight delays. Without it, travelers risk significant financial losses and stress in the event of emergencies or disruptions during their journey. From unexpected illnesses to natural disasters, travel insurance ensures that travelers are not left stranded or burdened with exorbitant expenses. It's a small investment that can make a world of difference in ensuring a smooth and worry-free travel experience.

Sunday, January 5, 2025 9:00pm EST

Zoom Link

The Pre Trip Orientation serves as a crucial component in ensuring safety, preparedness, and clarity for participants embarking on a journey or adventure. This session typically involves comprehensive discussions covering logistical details, safety protocols, and expectations for the upcoming trip. 

It provides participants with essential information about the itinerary, accommodation, transportation, and emergency procedures. Moreover, the Q&A segment offers an invaluable opportunity for individuals to address any uncertainties or concerns they may have, fostering open communication and enhancing overall readiness. 

Through this orientation, participants can feel more confident and equipped to navigate the upcoming experience, promoting a smoother and more enjoyable journey for all involved.

PASSPORT VALIDITY:

Must be valid for six months beyond date of visa application to obtain a visa.

BLANK PASSPORT PAGES:

Two pages required.

TOURIST VISA REQUIRED:

Yes. Travelers must enter in either on a paper visa, valid for 10 years for U.S. citizens, or an e-tourist visa.

All U.S. citizens need a valid passport as well as a valid Indian visa or an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card, to enter and exit India for any purpose. 

Travelers without valid documents or the correct type of visa may be denied entry into India. Indian visa regulations and instructions change frequently, often with little advance notice. Travelers are urged to check the website of the Indian Embassy in Washington, D.C. before any travel to India to review the most current information. The U.S. Embassy and Consulates General in India cannot assist you if you arrive without proper documentation.

U.S. citizens seeking to enter India solely for tourist purposes for stays of less than 60 days may apply for an eVisa at least four days prior to their arrival. Please visit the Indian government's website for electronic travel authorization for additional information and to submit an application.  

VACCINATIONS:

Required for yellow fever if the traveler is arriving from an infected area; others are suggested.

CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY:

The possession of satellite phones is prohibited in India; Currency in excess of USD $5,000 must be declared. Please check with the Indian Embassy in Washington if you are planning to carry a large amount of currency into India.

CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT:

Check local law for reporting requirements for exiting with large quantities of foreign currency and Indian rupees.

This information was obtained on April 7, 24 

*Please frequently check with the state department as visa and passport rules frequently change.

Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel. 

*We do not make recommendations to what type of shots or vaccinations you should take

U.S. Embassy New Delhi

Shantipath, Chanakyapuri
New Delhi - 110021
India
Telephone: +(91) (11) 2419-8000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(91) (11) 2419-8000
Fax: +(91) (11) 2419-0017
acsnd@state.gov

The U.S. Embassy, New Delhi serves American citizens in the Indian
states of  Haryana, Himachal Pradesh,
Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh, the union territories of Chandigarh, Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh, and the country of
Bhutan.

All U.S. Citizen travelers are encouraged to enroll into Smart Traveler Enrollment Program while traveling abroad. This is a free service that allows U.S. citizens traveling or living abroad to receive the latest security updates from the U.S. Embassy. Enrolling in STEP will help the U.S. embassy contact them and provide assistance during an emergency overseas.

Long sleeves to beat the heat

It seems counter-intuitive, but lightweight, long sleeves do a better job of protecting from the sun and heat than short sleeves or tank tops. Throw a button-down shirt in your backpack, too. It’s easy to pull it on over a t-shirt or tank top before entering temples.

Loose fitting and breathable clothing 

Leave the skinny jeans at home. It’s far more comfortable to wear long skirts, loose-fitting pants, and airy t-shirts. 

Want to go shopping? Kurtas for men and women (tunics that range from calf-length to shorter mid-thigh versions) are extremely easy to find, ultra affordable, and comfortable.

You’ll see plenty of women all over the country wearing a range of colors and styles over leggings, and most men donning over jeans or khakis. For women, I highly recommend bringing breathable running/yoga leggings to wear under long t-shirts or tunics.

Dress modestly

Long skirts or pants along with modest tops will blend in far more, and are required when visiting temples. Remember, both men and women need to cover shoulders and knees.

Scarf

Actually, bring two. There will be times when you’ll want to drape it around your shoulders and arms to enter temples and other times when it comes in handy as a wrap for cool nights, or even to loosely put over your face during tuk-tuk rides in dust or smog.

Comfortable shoes

Roads are dirty, cow dung is everywhere in crowded cities and you’ll likely be climbing stone ruins at some point. Dark-colored sneakers are the most practical and comfortable. Throw in a pair of sturdy flip-flops or Birkenstocks for shorter walks or coastal towns or days when there are temple visits. (For temple visits, you need to remove shoes before entering.)

Electronics

Bring a portable charger, especially for long bus rides. Extra camera batteries, as it’s much harder to find them in India than it is back home. And don’t forget a plug adapter and even an extra phone charging cord. It was so hot on my trip I had one partially melt in the sun. 

Bug spray

Depending on the area and time of year, mosquitoes can range from slight nuisance to serious problems.

Sunscreen

Apply liberally as the smog often masks the intensity of the sun.

Dry shampoo

Manage expectations and India is delightful. There’s not always hot water at all times of the day. Even if the water is warm, there might not be enough for a full hair wash. Dry shampoo is your best beauty friend. 

Medication

Always consult your travel doctor before a trip to ensure you have the right vaccines and any necessary emergency medication or asthma inhalers. In addition, bring over-the-counter remedies for Delhi belly, headaches, cold medication, and rehydration powder in case of dehydration.

Carry Vicks VapoRub to help with congestion resulting from poor air quality and to smear a tiny patch under your nose in times of potent odors (think the side streets of Varanasi).

A book

Or three. When not zig-zagging through ancient ruins or grand palaces, there will be downtime on buses and trains. A good book is a welcome companion.

The ultimate packing list:

After reassessing my trip, here’s what I’d highly recommend in terms of quantity of clothing – keep in mind you can do laundry during the trip. 

• 1 long skirt (to cover knees)
• 1 maxi dress
• 1 pair loose or khaki pants (2-3 pairs for men in lieu of skirts/dresses)
• 1 long-sleeve, cotton button-down shirt
• 3 shirts
• 1 tank top
• 2 tunics (bought in India— 1 short sleeve, 1 long sleeve)
• 1-2 pairs quick-dry leggings/yoga pants
• 5 pairs underwear
• 5 pairs quick-dry socks
• 2 bras (1 sports bra, 1 regular)
• 2 scarves (or buy them in India)
• 1 hoodie or lightweight sweater
• 1 bathing suit
• 1 pair sneakers
• 1 pair flip flops or walking sandals
• 1 pair shorts (only if you are in the south and plan on spending time on the beach)

Tips to Prevent "Delhi Belly"

1. Make sure you wash your hands

Keeping your hands clean is the Golden Rule of travelling. It’s easy to remember to clean your hands before a meal as everyone in your tour will whip out their hand sanitiser at the table. Plus, there may not always be cutlery as Indians traditionally eat with their hands (something you should try, it’s super fun!).

But beware of times in between main meals. To keep Delhi Belly at bay avoid touching your face or anything that’s going in your mouth until you’ve cleaned your hands. Soap and water is best, because it removes dirt, but wet wipes are great when a sink isn’t available. Follow up with hand sanitiser and you’ll be fine. I’d also suggest trimming your nails short and regularly removing dirt.

2. Make that a soda, and hold the ice

Ingesting Indian tap water is like shouting “DELHI BELLY COME AT ME!”. It’s unsafe to drink, so stick to bottled or filtered water. Filter bottles and water purification tablets are great options for avoiding single-use plastic, just be sure to research the most effective products.

If you have to buy plastic bottled water, check the seal is intact. Some vendors have been known to refill bottles with tap water before gluing the lid back on. Listen out for the cracking of the seal and let your leader know immediately if it’s faulty.

Re-sealing doesn’t work for fizzy drinks, so soda water is a great choice for staying hydrated. Always skip the ice though – it’s usually made from tap water.

3. Danger in the bathroom

For me, it goes like this:

Happily brushing teeth. Thinks about using filtered water to rinse mouth/brush. Starts day dreaming. Turns tap on. Spits. Rinses mouth with tap water.

Every time.

I find this the easiest place to slip up because it is a habit, so be extra careful. This also applies to those who shower with their mouth open. Zip it kid.

4. Hot and fresh

Indian food is incredible and your local leader will point you towards the tastiest. Don’t be scared to try new things. However, follow these do’s and don’ts to ensure the food stays IN your belly.

• Eat at busy spots full of locals. The food is usually delicious and fresh.
• Heat kills germs, so choose hot food.
• Embrace street food, but ask your leader for recommendations.
• Go vegetarian sometimes.
• Beware of buffets as dishes can be left unrefrigerated for too long.
• Avoid salad as it’s usually rinsed in tap water.
• Don’t eat cut fruit. Instead, purchase fruit with a peel (like oranges or bananas) and peel it yourself.
• Avoid Western food (unless you’ve read good reviews). It may not be as good quality as local food.
• Try not to overeat, particularly at the start. Your body needs time to adjust!

5. Give your gut a pro-biotic boost

Pro-biotics are good bacteria that help your body fight illness and keep you healthy. The theory is that the healthier your gut pre-trip, the better equipped it is to deal with new bacteria during your trip.

Yogurt, kombucha and other fermented foods are rich in this gut-strengthening bacteria, but your pharmacy will also sell a supplement version. Do some research and check with your doctor to see what might work best for you. Pro-biotics need time to work, so incorporate them as early as you can pre-trip.

6. What to do if you DO get sick

Fact is, many people experience an upset tummy when travelling, thanks to time-difference, a change in climate and unfamiliar food. You could follow all my suggestions and still feel a bit off.

If feeling a bit off-color develops into full-blown Delhi Belly and you’re spending the night on the toilet, you’ll want to have some medication like Imodium on hand to slow things down. Stay hydrated and carry tissues and change when exploring (you’ll need to pay for some public toilets).

If problems persist, tell your leader and see a doctor. If you know you are prone to an upset stomach, you should visit the doctor before your trip to discuss potential coping strategies.

So, take these few simple precautions and your trip to India will be full of amazing food and memories, NONE of which involve a toilet!

New Delhi

India’s capital, New Delhi, lies on the Indo-Gangetic Plain, within the National Capital Territory of Delhi. Made up of the ancient walled city of Old Delhi and the more modern sector, New Delhi, the city encompasses a staggering array of beautiful buildings, including three UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the grand, sandstone Red Fort, striking Qutab Minar, and fascinating Humayun's Tomb. Architecture enthusiasts will delight in the iconic Lotus Temple. Hear ‘qawwalis’ (devotional music) at the dargah (tomb) of the Sufi saint Nizam-ud-din Auliya; or wander through the 17th century Chandni Chowk marketplace – still one of the city’s most popular retail centres today, famous for its traditional jewellery and saris. The gorgeous Sunder Nursery and Lodi Garden provide calm, flower-filled oases for picnicking.

Day Itinerary

Welcome to Delhi, India! a monumental city with a vibrant mix of old and new teeming bazaars, stately British boulevards, powerful Mughal palaces and forts, and intricate, ethereal towers, temples and tombs.

Upon arrival at Delhi International airport, you will be met by our welcome ambassador and escorted to your hotel where you will be assisted with check-in formalities (Check-in time is between 1200-1400 hrs, early check-in is subject to availability).

Dinner & Overnight at hotel

Overnight: The Oberoi New Delhi  

The Oberoi New Delhi boast breathtaking views of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Humayun’s Tomb and a forested golf course. The guest rooms and suites are bright, spacious and elegantly decorated, equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, TVs and private bathrooms. The suites boast generous floor space and separate living rooms with TVs. Guests can enjoy dining at the on-site restaurants serving delicious Indian, Chinese and international cuisine or relax at the rooftop bar with a handcrafted cocktail. Additional amenities and services include a swimming pool, a fitness centre, a spa, meeting facilities, event hosting, a lobby lounge, parking and a reception.

 Breakfast &, Dinner Included

Day Itinerary

Post breakfast proceed for the city tour of Old and New Delhi

Begin with The Salaam Baalak Trust Delhi City Walk which is a guided tour of almost two hours conducted by children who used to live on the streets of Delhi before joining the Trust.

Salaam Baalak Trust Delhi translates literally to a Trust that 'salutes a child'. Saluting the indomitable spirit of street children without any discrimination based on gender, religion, caste, colour, or nationality, lies at the heart of our work. Girls and boys, under the age of 18 years, living and working on the streets are welcomed at our centres. We 'salute' their resolve to live a life of dignity by providing them with care and love, along with health, nutrition, education, and vocational training facilities to fulfil their dreams.

Following your visit, you will be escorted to the Bangla Sahib Gurudwara. 

Apart from the sacred shrine, this tour will primarily center around the complimentary community kitchen, commonly known as the "langar." Individuals of any faith are welcome to enjoy a vegetarian meal in the Langar hall, served at various intervals throughout the daylight hours. After a brief exploration of the temple complex, proceed to the Langar hall where you can contribute to meal preparation or serving. You may also engage in tasks such as distribution or washing utensils. Indulge in a meal at the free kitchen after your efforts. The entire kitchen operates through donations from devotees, whether monetary or in the form of food supplies. Devotees themselves handle all aspects of the service.

Lunch at Olive Bar & Restaurant.

Drive past through Parliament House and Government buildings.

India Gate: Also known as the Delhi Memorial or the All India War Memorial, the India Gate was built in commemoration of the roughly 80 000 Indian soliders who died representing their country in World War One and on various other battlefields, and whose names are inscribed on the structure. Unveiled in 1931, its distinctive arch is reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and the Gateway of India in Bombay, and is one of the trademark sights of New Delhi.

Rashtrapati Bhavan: Located in New Delhi, India, Rashtrapati Bhavan is home to the president of the world’s largest democracy and epitomizes India’s strength, its democratic traditions and secular character. It was Sir Lutyens who conceptualized the H-shaped building, covering an area of about 5 acres on a 330-acre estate. 

Qutub Minar: Later visit the Qutub Minar the landmark of Delhi, a huge tower of victory started in 1199 and completed in 1368. The minar is 72.5m high with a diameter at the base 14.4m and 2.7m at the top. The tower has 379 steps to the top.

Dinner at Indian Accent

Overnight stay at hotel.

Included Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

Fringed by the rugged Aravali Hills, Jaipur, nicknamed the ‘Pink City’ for its salmon-hued terracotta buildings, is the capital and largest city in the Rajasthan State. This metropolis combines tradition and modernity with its vibrant bazaars, lavish palaces, and ancient temples. Don’t miss the fairy-tale splendour of the Amber Fort, set against the backdrop of the arid landscape and hosting enthralling sound and light shows; the UNESCO-listed Jantar Mantar, a collection of 300-year-old astronomical tools which look like contemporary art; and the opulent City Palace, with its palatial structures, sprawling gardens, and atmospheric courtyards. Jaipur falls within the Golden Triangle, a popular tourist circuit, which includes Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra, and it also serves as a gateway to the neighbouring desert cities of Jaisalmer and Jodhpur.

Day Itinerary

Breakfast at the hotel.

Check-out & transfer to the airport to take flight for Jaipur.

Arrive In Jaipur. Welcome greet & transfer to the hotel followed by Lunch.

Jaipur - enthralling, historical Jaipur, Rajasthan’s capital, is the gateway to India’s most flamboyant state. The city’s colorful, chaotic streets ebb and flow with a heady brew of old and new. At the city’s heart, the City Palace continues to house the former royal family, the Jantar Mantar, the royal observatory, maintains a heavenly aspect; and the honeycomb Hawa Mahal gazes on the bazaar below. And just out of sight, in the arid hill country surrounding the city, is the fairy-tale grandeur of Amber Fort.

Dinner & Overnight stay at hotel.

The Leela Palace - Grand Villa with Plunge Pool

This palace hotel, a reincarnation of the royal mahals of Jaipur, is located in tranquil environs away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It blends the splendour of Rajputana and Mughal architecture with pristine white exteriors embellished with ornate jaalis and silver-lined chhatris.

Walk along the marbled corridors adorned with parchin kari metal inlays and walls sparkling with thikri mirror work. Pause to admire vibrant frescoes depicting historical scenes. Sit back and relax in one of our many airy pavilions dotted with marble fountains. At sunset, join the dharohar, a Rajasthani folk music, dance and art gala on the sprawling lawns. Wine and dine under the stars gazing at the Aravalli hills before retiring to your boudoir. At every turn, The Leela Palace Jaipur wows you with true Indian luxury.

Included Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

Day Itinerary

After breakfast, enjoy the full day visit of Jaipur City.

Visit to 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 chiselled handles. Many antiques and artifacts belonging

to the ruling family are housed here. 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.

You can enjoy a photo stop 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.

Lunch at Hotel.

Saree and Turban Tying

The Saree, often referred to as the "9-yard wonder," holds a special place in Indian culture. It is commonly said that a woman looks exceptionally beautiful in a Saree, making it one of the most feminine and captivating attires worldwide. Donning a Saree is no simple task, but once accomplished, it provides a profound sense of embodying traditional Indian womanhood. 

For men, there's the Safa, a head scarf even longer than a Saree! This intricately layered turban adds vibrant colors and splendor to your memories of Rajasthan.

Rest of time free to explore local bazaar for shopping

Dinner & Overnight stay at hotel.

Included Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

Day Itinerary

Visit Amer Fort. Surrounded by fortified battlements, situated on a ridge just outside Jaipur city. Maharaja Mansingh, Mughal Emperor Akbar’s most successful General, started the construction of Amber Fort in the 17th century. Ruins and remains are spread over the Aravalli hills and sprawling crenulated walls lattice the surrounding

area. At the foot of the hill you will be taken on the jeep up to the main gate. Tour the chambers and hallways of the palace, famous for the excellence of its design and decoration.

Lunch at Hotel

Renowned for numerous traditional crafts, Rajasthan boasts a particularly prevalent and beloved one: hand block printing. This artistic technique finds expression in various locations across Rajasthan, with each area contributing its unique historical, cultural, and geographical influences to the craft. Consequently, distinct regional variations emerge, each characterized by its own unique style. Sanganer, located near Jaipur, stands out as a prominent hub for hand block printing, gaining significant attention thanks to its proximity to the capital city.

Dinner at Hotel

Included Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Agra

Set on the banks of the Yamuna River in Uttar Pradesh, Agra is a beautiful city famous for its incredible Taj Mahal building, one of the seven wonders of the world. Commissioned by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 15th century as a memorial to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, this is an architectural masterpiece of exquisite craftsmanship and perfect proportions. The city boasts numerous other superb attractions, including the red-hued sandstone Agra Fort, built in the 16th century; the Shahi Jama Masjid mosque, a 17th-century congregational mosque located in the historic core of Agra, and Itmad-ud-Daulah’s tomb, with its white marble facade embellished with intricate inlaid designs, also called the' Baby Taj'.

Day Itinerary

After breakfast, check out from hotel and transfer to the airport to board the flight to Agra.

Agra is one of India’s prime tourist destinations for specifically this reason, though its attractions also extend to an array of other impressive historical sights. The Taj, however, is in a league of its own and is a must-see for any visitor to the city. Commissioned by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 15th century as a memorial to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, it is an architectural masterpiece of exquisite craftsmanship and perfect proportions. 

On arrival transfer  to the hotel and check-in followed by Lunch.

Evening at Sheroes Hangout Café - A rehabilitation center for girls who are surviving the heinous chemical attacks.

You can interact with these girls, share their stories and future planning. They run a café where you can have beverages and/or snacks. Their menus have no cost mentioned but it is written "pay as much as you wish".  They do not issue an invoice but accept donations which goes for the welfare of acid attack survivors.

Overnight at hotel.

Overnight: The Oberoi Amarvilas

The Oberoi Amarvilas Agra Hotel is located in Agra. The property is ideal for the leisure traveller. The Taj Mahal monument is a mere 600 meters away and can be seen from every room and most public areas at the hotel.

The Oberoi Amarvilas Agra Hotel provides a city tour service to nearby tourist sites, as the city centre is approximately 15 minutes away. Recreational activities available at the hotel includes holistic treatments at the spa or group yoga sessions. The Oberoi Amarvilas Agra Hotel also serves food on-site, with two different restaurants serving a variety of international and authentic Indian food.

Included Breakfast &  Lunch

 Day Itinerary

Sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal (Remains closed on Fridays). Often considered the pinnacle of Mughal art in India, the Taj Mahal was built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. When declaring it a world heritage site, UNESCO described it as “the jewel of Muslim art in India”. There are few words that can describe the magnificence of this monument. Marvel as light and colors transform this stunning monument in the beautiful dawn glow.

Breakfast at the hotel followed by visit of Agra Fort, another UNESCO heritage site built and added to between the 16th and 17th centuries by successive rulers of the Mughal Dynasty. The fort was built primarily as a military structure, but Shah Jahan upgraded it to a palace and later it became his gilded prison for 8 years after his son Aurangzeb seized power. The elegant building inside reflects an interesting synthesis of Hindu and Central Asian architectural styles.

Later visit Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity which was founded in 1950 by Mother Teresa. Since then, it has been serving the needy and the poor. The main objective of this place is to provide help and support to those who are in need. The Missionaries of Charity is a worldwide organization that has been serving humanity for more than 70 years.

Post Lunch check-out and transfer to Delhi. 210kms / 4 hours surface drive.

Drop at Delhi airport to connect your flight back home.

Included Breakfast and Lunch