Golden Triangle And Temples Tour

• Day 1: Arrive Delhi

  Your Golden Triangle with temple tour begins with your arrival at the Delhi International Airport. At the airport, you will be received by a Trans India Holidays representative and will escort you to the hotel and help you with the check in formalities. The tour starts from the capital city of India, Delhi. The city is home to iconic landmarks, heritage sites, vibrant culture and the inherent charm of India. In Delhi, there exists two worlds-the old and new, each with their own attractions. Old Delhi, the one built by Mughals and the New Delhi, the imperial capital designed by the British, both have magnificent architecture to marvel at, foodie trails, shopping hubs and so much more. Beyond these two significant parts of Delhi, there are almost eight cities within Delhi, the oldest Indraprastha dating to almost 3000 years ago. Witness heritage of centuries co-existing peacefully with the fast-developing metropolis. Overnight stay in Delhi.

• Day 1: Arrive Delhi

  Arrive Delhi. Meet, greet, assist on arrival and transfer to the hotel (Check in at hotel 1200 Noon). India’s capital and major gateway to the country, Delhi is a bustling metropolis, which successfully combines in its fold the ancient and the modern. Its Strategic location was one of the prime reasons why successive dynasties chose it as their seat of power. It is not surprising then that what constitutes Delhi today is a conglomerate of seven cities. The current city is a quaint mixture of the old and the new. The newer part was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and is the ultimate testament to the British Raj. Day at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

• Day 2: Delhi Sightseeing

  Begin the day with breakfast at hotel. Later, the tour guide will pick you up from the hotel and take you for a guided sightseeing of Old and New Delhi. This tour includes the following places: Red Fort: The UNESCO listed World Heritage site is a fortress built in the 17th century during the Mughal rule. The name comes from Hindi word Lal, which means red and Quila which means fort and gets its name from the red sandstone used in the structure. The Red Fort is placed in an octet shape along the Yamuna River with a wall of about 2.4 km in perimeter and took almost a decade to be completed. The highlights of the fortress are Diwan-e-Am (Hall for public audience), a Rang Mahal (a water- cooled apartment of royal ladies) and a Pearl Mosque (constructed with white marble), museums, etc. The main entrances to the Red Forts are the Delhi Gate and the Lahori Gate, both of which face the renowned Chandni Chowk. Jama Masjid: One of the country’s major mosques, Jama Masjid is a place where hundreds and thousands of Muslims offer their prayers. Constructed by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, it is an architectural extravaganza. Awe at the long stretches of stairs, hefty courtyard and intricate carvings. Chandni Chowk (Silver Street): Well-known as the most popular place in Old Delhi, it is a famous shopping spot as well as popular foodie hub. Known as the country’s best extensive market, here you can shop for traditional attires, electronics, street shopping and more. The famous Paranthawale Gali, known for its mouth-watering paranthas is located here as is the famous gold market, Dariba Kalan. In the olden days, the Chandni Chowk, meaning the ‘moonlit courtyard’ in the local language was designed by Jahanara Begum, Shah Jahan’s beloved daughter and was then populated by the well-to-do families of that time. Raj Ghat: Set on the expansive gardens lying on the banks of Yamuna River, Raj Ghat symbolizes the spot where Mahatma Gandhi ‘The Father of the Nation was cremated in 1948 after his assasination in 1948. A dedicatory ritual takes place each Friday, in his memory. India Gate: A free-standing 42-meter high arch built-in 1931, India Gate commemorates the memory of the 90,000 soldiers of the Indian Army who died in World War I. The walls of the arch are covered in engraved names of the warriors. Also, the eternal flame of Amar Jawan (Immortal Soldier) is lit here adding to its appeal. Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s House): The authorized residence of the President of the country, the Rashtrapati Bhavan was designed by British architect Lutyens in New Delhi. The official residence of the Viceroy when the British ruled India and now the President is an architectural magnificence. Humayun’s Tomb: The UNESCO World Heritage, the inspiration behind the Taj Mahal, the Humayun’s Tomb was built nine years after the death of the Mughal Emperor by the Haji Begum (widow of Humayun) in his memory. The garden tomb is a splendor of Indian architecture. Qutub Minar: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Qutub Archaeological Complex was built by the Muslim King; Qutab–ud–din Aibak in the early 12th century. The brick minaret (tower) rises to 72.5 meters tall and its base is a mosque. The complex has ruins, tombs and other remnants of Indian history and architecture. Overnight stay in Delhi.

• Day 3: Delhi – Haridwar (230 kms/ 5-6 hrs)

  After breakfast at the hotel, get assistance with a drive to Haridwar for your next stop of the Golden Triangle and Temples Tour. Haridwar is positioned in the foothills of the Shivalik range of the Himalayas along the River Ganga. The city marks the town where the River Ganga reaches the plains. The holy city is said to be blessed by the trinity of Lord Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma of Indian mythology. The highlight of Haridwar are its river ghats and the temples. Har-ki-Pauri is one of the most sacred Ghats in India. Every evening Ganga aarti, spectacular worship of the holy river takes place. It is quite similar to the Ganges ceremony (Ganga Aarti) held in Varanasi. On arrival, check-in at the hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure which you can spend exploring the city, river ghats, and temples. Overnight in Haridwar.

• Day 4: Haridwar & Rishikesh Sightseeing

  Begin the day with breakfast at the hotel. The day is at your own leisure. Bask in the holy ambiance of the cities Haridwar and Rishikesh. Rishikesh is snuggled in the Shivalik range of the Himalayas along the River Ganges. Home to saints, sages and scholars, the town is known as the ‘Yoga Capital of the World’ as it is said that yoga had originated here. Ashrams in Rishikesh are globally renowned for yoga courses, meditation and for religious discourses are held. The small town earned a global reputation as it is here, the ‘Beatles’ composed some of their best works. Beatles Ashram is a well-preserved memory of their days. Overnight in Haridwar.

• Day 5: Haridwar – Delhi (230kms/ 5 hrs)

  Post breakfast at the hotel, leave for Delhi by road. On arrival, check-in at the hotel. The rest of the day is at your own leisure. You can spend it exploring the colorful nightlife, shopping hubs or the foodie trails. Overnight in Delhi.

• Day 6: Delhi – Agra (220 kms/ 4 hrs)

  After breakfast, check out from the hotel. Proceed to Agra by road. En route you can pay a visit to the holy cities of Mathura and Vrindavan. Lord Krishna is the most revered deity of Hindu mythology and Mathura and Vrindavan reverberate with legends and tales of the lord. The birthplace of the Lord, Mathura and the town where he was raised and spent his childhood doing miraculous deeds Vrindavan are holy sites for those who put faith in the divine. Mathura, Vrindavan and the Braj region are renowned for the festive celebration of Holi-the festival of colors. The rustic setting, the profusion of temples, delightful people, savory street food and the tales of divine love make it a very interesting indigenous Indian experience. Later, drive to the Mughal city Agra. Agra: One of the most popular places to visit in India, Agra offers incredible charms of the days of the Mughal rule. The ancient city is dotted with magnificent specimens of architecture built by the Mughal Emperors, the most incredible of them the Taj Mahal, a wonder of the world. The Mughal days are still alive in Agra in the form of mouth-watering cuisines, arts & crafts and culture. On arrival, complete the hotel check-in formalities. The rest of the day is at your own leisure. Overnight in Agra.

• Day 7: In Agra

  Start the day with breakfast at the hotel. Later get pick you up for the guided sightseeing trip including: Taj Mahal: One among the most beautiful structures in the world, Taj Mahal was built in the 17th century by Emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his wife Mumtaj Mahal. This white-marble is granted the title of one of the 'wonders of the world'. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is also known as the 'icon of eternal love'. Without a doubt, it is the most recognized and most visited landmark in India. It took 22 years and over 20,000 artisans to create this spectacle. The visit to the Taj Mahal is a cherished highlight of India Tour. Agra Fort: One of the world heritage sites listed by UNESCO, the fortress of the Mughals has erstwhile been the centre of governance of the Mughal Empire. The construction of the red sandstone Agra Fort on the bank of Yamuna River was started by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century. Opulent accommodations and attractive buildings were added by Shah Jahan. The highlight of the fascinating fort include Diwan–e–Am, Diwan–e–Khas, Jahangir’s Palace, Khaas Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Samman Burj, where Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son, Moti Masjid, a white marble mosque, etc. Itmad ud Daulah: The mausoleum of Itmad-ud-Daulah is an attractive specimen of Mughal architecture. Described as a 'jewel box' and the 'Baby Taj', it is inspired from the Taj Mahal. It is one of the most popular sights to cover on a visit to Agra. The geometric symmetry, intricate jail work and overall beauty enhance the experience of visiting the beautiful monument. Sikandra: Sikandra is the last resting place of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. He himself chose the site while he lived. Set amid sprawling beautiful gardens, the mausoleum is carved of red-ochre sandstone. Overnight stay in Agra.

• Day 8: Agra - Jaipur (250 KMS/ 5 hrs)

  Post breakfast, you will be met by our representative and will be assisted with the check-out formalities at the hotel. You will then start your drive to Jaipur, your next destination on the Golden Triangle and Temples tour, en-route stopping at Fatehpur Sikri, for a guided tour of this ancient capital. Fatehpur Sikri: Almost 35 kms outside Agra, this Mughal city was built in the 16th century, and was abandoned in 12 years of its founding. The entire city is still intact and a sight of this city is worth remembering. The Buland Darwaza, the main entrance to this city, which is 54 m tall and this gate was built in the honor of Akbar’s victory in Gujarat. The impressive doorway leads to many other impressive specimens of Mughal architecture. After visiting Fatehpur Sikri, continue your drive to Jaipur. Jaipur: The capital of Rajasthan and known as the “Pink City” the walled city of Jaipur is a recent addition to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. Situated on a dry lake bed, bordered by barren hills the city was found in 1727 by Maharaja Jai Singh II, who was in friendly terms with ruling Mughals. The royal city is an impressive masterpiece of layout and is one of the earliest planned cities in India. Designed on principles of Indian architecture and layout, it is home to impressive monuments, markets to enjoy shopping, delightful food trails to savor local food and more. On your arrival at the hotel in Jaipur, get assistance with the check-in formalities. The rest of the day is free for you. You can either relax and enjoy the facilities of the hotel or explore the city on your own. Overnight in Jaipur.

• Day 9: In Jaipur

  After a relaxing breakfast, get pick up by the guide from the hotel and will be taken for a guided sightseeing tour of Jaipur. Sightseeing in Jaipur includes: Amber Fort: Located 11 km away from Jaipur, Amber was once the ancient capital of Jaipur. The fortress of Amber is listed among the hill forts of Rajasthan that are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. An excellent illustration of Rajput architecture, it is impressively situated on a hillside facing a lake. The walls of the fortress have innumerable treasures. Hawa Mahal (Palace Of Winds): Jaipur’s iconic landmark, it was constructed by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799. The Mahal has pink windows and latticework screens which initially served the purpose to the ladies of the royal household to watch the ordinary life and parades of the city without being seen by the public. City Palace: The impressive City Palace is still the dwelling of the royal family of Jaipur. This Palace still has an extensive collection of art, carpets and old weapons. Jantar Mantar (Observatory): The UNESCO World Heritage site is an inquisitive collection of sculptures. In fact each construction has a detailed purpose such as measuring the positions of stars, altitudes and azimuths, and calculating eclipses. The most striking instrument is the sundial- a 27 meter tall gnomon casting a shadow that moves up to 4 meters an hour. Later, you can enjoy shopping in Jaipur or try the mouth-watering dishes of Rajasthan. Overnight in Jaipur.

• Day 10: DRIVE JAIPUR - DELHI (265 KM/05 HRS) AND DEPART DELHI

  After a relaxing breakfast at the hotel, you will be met by our representative and will be assisted with the check-out formalities. You will then start your drive to Delhi's International Airport in time for your flight back home.

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