Golden Triangle
The Delhi-Agra-Jaipur circuit, popularly known as the Golden Triangle, probably attracts more tourists than the rest of India put together. The breathtaking beauty of the Taj, the Rajput splendour of the "Pink City", and the strange amalgamation of the ancient and modern that go to make India's capital city create a heady magic mix potent enough to satisfy the casual visitor, seductive enough to lure the serious traveller further in. Here's a couple of quick 4 and 5 day itineraries- the minimum time required to see these cities. You could either extend your stay in any city, or add on other packages like a wild life sanctuary visit or a camel safari.
Day 1: Delhi
Arrive Delhi, check into your hotel. A half day tour of New Delhi covering the Qutub Minar, India Gate, Parliament House, Humayun’s Tomb and Rajghat- Mahatama Gandhi’s final resting place. Evening free for browsing the Dilli Haat where traditional craftsmen display their skills and wares or shopping at one of the many trendy stores or sampling a fine variety of cuisine in the many food-stalls. Overnight Delhi.
Day 2: Delhi
Full day tour of the sights of New and Old Delhi: the lotus shaped Bahai temple, Jantar Mantar, the sprawling Purana Qila or Old Fort on the banks of the Yamuna. Visit the famous Jama Masjid and Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi. Catch the sound and light show at the Red Fort in the evening. Overnight Delhi.
Day 3: Delhi - Agra
Drive 200 km to Agra via Sikandra and the tomb of Akbar the Great. At Agra check into your hotel. Visit one of the greatest wonders, the Taj Mahal, with a guide. Also visit the Agra Fort. Try and catch the view of the Taj at sunset from here. Overnight Agra.
Day 4: Agra - Jaipur
After breakfast depart for Jaipur (240 km) via Fatehpur Sikri. Check into your hotel. Half-day sightseeing of Jaipur city. Overnight Jaipur.
Day 5: Jaipur
Full day tour of Jaipur covering the bazaars, palaces and monuments. Visit the City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal. Visit the Amber Fort with a guide. Take an elephant ride on the ramparts of the fort. Have dinner at Chokhi Dhani. Overnight Jaipur.
Day 6: Jaipur and onward
Return to Delhi or transfer to Jaipur airport and fly out to your next destination. Or you could extend your stay in Rajasthan by visiting the wildlife sanctuaries at Sariska or Ranthambore or taking a camel safari in the Shekhawati region or at Jaisalmer.