Golden Triangle Tour with Haridwar/Rishikesh
- Duration
7 Nights / 8 Days
- Best time to visit
September - March
- Pickup / Drop
New Delhi Airport
Tour Overview : Golden Triangle Tour with Haridwar/Rishikesh
Embark on a captivating journey through India's Golden Triangle enhanced by the spiritual sanctuaries of Haridwar and Rishikesh. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and serene spiritual retreats. Begin in Delhi, India's bustling capital, where you'll explore historic landmarks like the Red Fort and experience the vibrant local culture. Move on to Agra, home of the magnificent Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its architectural beauty and romantic allure. Discover the ancient Mughal heritage at Agra Fort before heading to Jaipur, the Pink City, known for its majestic palaces, bustling bazaars, and the iconic Hawa Mahal.
Continuing your journey, visit Haridwar, one of India's holiest cities, where the Ganges River flows and devotees gather for ritual baths at Har Ki Pauri. Experience the spiritual ambiance with visits to Mansa Devi and Chandi Devi Temples atop scenic hillsides. In Rishikesh, the Yoga Capital of the World, immerse yourself in yoga, meditation, and spiritual teachings at tranquil ashrams like Parmarth Niketan. Stroll across the suspension bridges of Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula, enjoying serene views of the Ganges. Witness the evening Ganga Aarti, a soul-stirring ritual of lamps and chants by the riverbank.
This journey promises a deep dive into India's rich tapestry of culture, spirituality, and natural beauty, ensuring an unforgettable experience tailored by Discover India Vacations Pvt Ltd.
Tour Highlights
- Taj Mahal: Marvel at the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal in Agra, an architectural masterpiece and symbol of eternal love.
- Haridwar's Spiritual Charm: Experience the spiritual aura of Haridwar at Har Ki Pauri, where the Ganges Aarti ceremony unfolds each evening.
- Jaipur's Royal Heritage: Explore Jaipur's regal history at Amber Fort, City Palace, and Hawa Mahal, reflecting Rajasthan's rich cultural heritage.
- Yoga Capital Rishikesh: Discover Rishikesh, renowned for its spiritual retreats, yoga ashrams, and the serene banks of the Ganges.
- Cultural Immersion: Indulge in local cuisines, vibrant markets, and traditional arts and crafts throughout Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Haridwar, and Rishikesh.
Tour Plan - Itinerary
Welcome to Delhi!
Welcome to Delhi! Upon arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport, you'll be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel in a comfortable, private vehicle. Check-in and take some time to settle into your room. After check-in, you have the afternoon to relax and recover from your journey. You can take a short rest in your room or explore the hotel's facilities.
If you feel refreshed, you can head out for a leisurely exploration of nearby attractions:
Connaught Place: Visit this bustling commercial and financial hub in Delhi, known for its colonial-era buildings, restaurants, and shops.
Janpath Market: Just a short walk from Connaught Place, this market is perfect for picking up souvenirs, handicrafts, and ethnic wear.
Return to your hotel. Take this time to relax and prepare for the exciting day of sightseeing ahead.Overnight: Stay at your hotel in Delhi.
- No Meals
- 20 Kms/45 Min
- New Delhi
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel. Meet your driver in the hotel lobby to start your day of sightseeing.
- Head to Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore this 73-meter tall minaret and learn about its history dating back to the 12th century.
- Proceed to Humayun’s Tomb, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and the inspiration for the Taj Mahal's design. Wander through the beautifully landscaped gardens and marvel at the Mughal architecture.
- Visit India Gate, a war memorial dedicated to Indian soldiers who died in World War I. Take a walk around the area and enjoy the lush greenery.
- Drive past the President's House (Rashtrapati Bhavan) and the Parliament House for a glimpse of the grand governmental buildings.
- Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (at your own cost), sampling a variety of North Indian dishes.
- Head to Red Fort, a massive Mughal fortification made of red sandstone. Explore its impressive structures, including Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) and Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience).
- Visit Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. Climb to the top of its minaret for a panoramic view of Old Delhi.
- Explore Raj Ghat, the serene memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, where you can pay your respects and reflect on his legacy.
- Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Chandni Chowk, one of Delhi's oldest and busiest markets. Enjoy a rickshaw ride through its narrow lanes, teeming with shops, food stalls, and historic buildings.
- Breakfast
- Delhi
Start your day with a nutritious breakfast at your hotel. Check-out from the hotel. Meet your driver in the lobby and begin your journey to Jaipur, also known as the Pink City. The drive will take approximately 5-6 hours (265 km). Continue your drive, enjoying the changing landscapes and scenic views of rural India along the way.
Arrive in Jaipur and check in to your hotel. Take some time to rest and freshen up. Have lunch at the hotel or at a local restaurant, sampling some delicious Rajasthani cuisine.
Experience a traditional Rajasthani evening at Chokhi Dhani, an ethnic village resort. Enjoy cultural performances, folk dances, puppet shows, camel rides, and a traditional Rajasthani dinner.
Return to your hotel. Spend the rest of the evening at your leisure, perhaps enjoying the hotel's amenities or taking a relaxing stroll around the property. Overnight: Stay at your hotel in Jaipur.
- Breakfast
- 265 Kms/5 Hrs
- Jaipur
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel. Afterward, meet your guide and head out for a day of exploring Jaipur's rich heritage.
Your first stop is the Amber Fort, a stunning hilltop fort located just outside the city. Ascend to the fort's entrance on an elephant or by jeep, enjoying the panoramic views of Maota Lake below. Once inside, explore the beautiful courtyards, intricate palaces, and ornate halls, including the Sheesh Mahal (Hall of Mirrors) and the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience).
After your visit to Amber Fort, drive back to the city and visit the City Palace, a splendid blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. Wander through its various courtyards, museums, and buildings, including the Chandra Mahal and the Mubarak Mahal, which house a collection of royal costumes, artifacts, and armory.
Next, head to the Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the collection of architectural astronomical instruments, designed to measure time, predict eclipses, and track celestial bodies.
Visit the iconic Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), known for its unique five-story façade with 953 small windows. Learn about the history of this remarkable structure, built for royal ladies to observe street festivities while remaining unseen.
Evening: Shopping and Local Flavors : In the evening, take a stroll through Jaipur's vibrant bazaars, such as Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar, famous for their jewelry, textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Enjoy shopping for traditional Rajasthani items and witnessing the lively atmosphere.
Return to your hotel for a relaxing evening, reflecting on the day's experiences. Overnight: Stay at your hotel in Jaipur.
- Breakfast
- Jaipur
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Jaipur. Afterward, check out and meet your driver to start your journey to Agra.
En route to Agra, stop at the historic city of Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This abandoned city, built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Mughal Empire. Explore the well-preserved red sandstone buildings, including the Buland Darwaza (Gate of Victory), Jama Masjid, Panch Mahal, and the Tomb of Salim Chishti.
Continue your journey to Agra. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take some time to freshen up and relax.
Visit the magnificent Agra Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This sprawling red sandstone fortress, once the main residence of the Mughal emperors, contains beautiful palaces, mosques, and audience halls. Explore notable structures like the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), and the stunning Moti Masjid (Pearl Mosque).
Next, visit Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb, also known as the "Baby Taj." This exquisite mausoleum is often considered a draft of the Taj Mahal and showcases intricate marble inlay work and beautiful gardens.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling Mughlai cuisine, which Agra is famous for. After dinner, return to your hotel. Spend the evening at your leisure, perhaps enjoying the hotel's amenities or taking a relaxing walk. Overnight: Stay at your hotel in Agra.
- Breakfast
- 250 Kms/5 Hrs
- Agra
Start your day early with a visit to the Taj Mahal at sunrise. Witness the stunning beauty of this iconic monument bathed in the soft morning light, creating a magical and serene atmosphere. Take your time to explore the intricate details and gardens while learning about its history and significance.
Return to your hotel for breakfast and check out from your hotel in Agra and begin your journey to Haridwar, a sacred city nestled at the foothills of the Himalayas. The drive will take approximately 7-8 hours, offering picturesque views along the way.
Upon arrival in Haridwar, check into your hotel and take some time to relax and refresh after your journey.
In the evening, head to Har Ki Pauri, the most famous ghat along the banks of the Ganges River. Here, you'll witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, a ritual that involves the chanting of hymns, rhythmic drumming, and the lighting of oil lamps. As the lamps float down the river, they create a magical and spiritual atmosphere that captivates both locals and visitors alike.
After the Aarti, you can stroll along the ghats, enjoy the local street food, or simply soak in the serene ambiance of Haridwar.
Return to your hotel for an overnight stay, resting up for the next day's adventures. Traveling with a professional tour company ensures that every detail of your journey is meticulously planned, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience without any worries.
- Breakfast
- 410 Kms/7 Hrs
- Haridwar
After a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Haridwar, embark on an exciting excursion to Rishikesh, a serene town located about 20 kilometers from Haridwar. Known as the "Yoga Capital of the World," Rishikesh offers a unique blend of spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty.
Upon arrival, you can explore the following highlights:
- Lakshman Jhula: Walk across this iconic suspension bridge, which offers stunning views of the Ganges River and the surrounding hills.
- Ram Jhula: Another picturesque bridge, slightly larger than Lakshman Jhula, connecting the different parts of the town and providing a serene atmosphere.
- Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Visit this renowned ashram, known for its yoga and meditation programs. You can stroll through its peaceful gardens and enjoy the tranquil ambiance.
- Triveni Ghat: A sacred bathing ghat where pilgrims come to take a holy dip in the Ganges. It's also a great spot to witness the evening Aarti if you wish to stay longer in Rishikesh.
- Beatles Ashram: Explore the ashram where The Beatles stayed in 1968, now a popular spot for graffiti art and serene surroundings perfect for meditation and reflection.
- Breakfast
- 25 Kms/1 Hrs Per Way
- Haridwar
After breakfast at your hotel in Haridwar, embark on a morning tour to explore the spiritual and cultural highlights of this sacred city.
- Har Ki Pauri: Start your day with a visit to Har Ki Pauri, the most famous ghat in Haridwar. Witness the serene atmosphere and the morning rituals of the pilgrims taking a dip in the Ganges.
- Mansa Devi Temple: Take a cable car ride to Mansa Devi Temple, perched on the Shivalik Hills, offering panoramic views of the city and the Ganges River. The temple is dedicated to Mansa Devi, a form of the goddess Shakti.
- Chandi Devi Temple: Another cable car ride takes you to Chandi Devi Temple, situated on the Neel Parvat. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Chandi and is one of the Shakti Peethas.
- Breakfast
- 230 Kms/5 Hrs
Inclusions and Exclusions
Package Cost : On Request
(Package Cost is per person on twin share)
Accommodation
City | Superior | Premium |
---|---|---|
Delhi | Hotel Emerald | Pride Plaza |
Agra | Royal Sarovar Portico | Grand Mercure |
Jaipur | Fern Residency | The Lalit |
Haridwar | Regenta Orkos | Ganga Lahri |
Travel Tips
- Weather and Clothing: Pack according to the season. Light, breathable clothing is ideal for daytime, with a jacket or shawl for cooler evenings, especially in winter.
- Hydration and Health: Stay hydrated, especially during summer. Carry a refillable water bottle and drink bottled or filtered water. Pack a basic medical kit with essentials like medications, insect repellent, and sunscreen.
- Currency and Payments: Exchange currency at authorized centers or use ATMs for Indian Rupees (INR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities but have cash handy for smaller vendors and rural areas.
- Local Etiquette: Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially at religious sites. Always ask before photographing locals or entering sacred places.
- Transport and Safety: Use reputable transportation services and pre-book intercity travel for convenience. Follow safety guidelines during wildlife safaris and adventure activities like rafting in Rishikesh.
- Yoga and Meditation: If interested, book sessions at reputable ashrams in Rishikesh in advance. Enjoy the serene environment and spiritual teachings offered by experienced instructors.