intrepid travel golden triangle

The Golden Triangle Tours & Holidays

Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur - the Golden Triangle of Indian cities that will capture your heart and ignite your imagination. 

While India is full of beauty from its colourful festivals and chaotic bazaars to its fascinating history and religious structures, it’s the ancient cities of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur (the tourist circuit known as the Golden Triangle) that provide the perfect introduction into this country’s culture, spirituality, and cuisine . Embark on an epic journey through Rajasthan as you traverse its unforgettable landscapes, get lost in its vibrant cities, and get up close with its iconic attractions such as the Taj Mahal, Amber Fort, and the Red Gate on our Golden Triangle tours and holidays. 

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India's Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Why is this tourist circuit called the Golden Triangle?

Made up of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, the Golden Triangle is named for the triangular shape made by the locations of the three cities. 

Is it safe to visit the Golden Triangle?

In general, India is a pretty safe country to travel to as long as you keep these things in mind:

• Stick to well-lit and populated areas at night 
• Travel in groups to unfamiliar places
• Always keep an eye on your personal belongings.

The regions/cities visited as part of the Golden Triangle circuit aren't experiencing any political or civil unrest. You shouldn't get into trouble if you heed the above recommendations. 

What kind of transportation is used to travel around the Golden Circle?

As Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur are relatively close.

The primary mode of transportation between the destinations is a private vehicle so you can travel in comfort and get to know your fellow group members along the way.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

India Tours & Holidays

There’s probably no other country on the planet that blazes its way into your memory like India.

Years later, you can still hear the morning calls of the chai wallahs; see smoke curling over the Ganges during a golden Varanasi sunrise , and smell the rich aromas of simmering curry. A lot of India tours rush from highlight to highlight, ticking them off in a blur of temples and tikka. But not us. Our India holidays are more about spotting Bengal tigers in Ranthambhore or Panna National Park, hanging with nomads in Jaisalmer, meeting the holy men of Pushkar, or hunting down the best street eats. This isn’t just the India you see on postcards. This is India as it is . Raw, bizarre and totally addictive.

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Popular local regions 

India at a glance, capital city.

Delhi (population, 32.94 million)

1.408 billion

Indian Rupees (INR)

Hindi, Urdu, Tamil, Bengali, Kashmiri, Kannada, Marathi, Gujarati, Telugu, English

(GMT+05:30) Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai, New Delhi

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type D (Old British 3-pin) Type M (see D)

Learn more about India

Best time to visit india.

Due to India's size and topography, the climate varies from place to place but the best time to visit, generally speaking, is in the winter from December until early March. During the coolest months (December-January), temperatures can get quite cold in Delhi and in the north, especially at night. The whole country tends to get very hot from April onwards and most regions experience the summer from late May to around October. The summer offers hot and humid conditions, although this is considered one of the best times to visit Ladakh and the hills.

Learn more about the best time to visit India

Culture and customs

India is one of the world’s oldest civilisations with a culture steeped in ancient beliefs and traditions. Religion also plays a massive role in everyday life with 80% of the population practising Hinduism while the remaining 20% is divided into Muslim (India has the world’s second-largest Muslim population), Christian, Sikhism and Buddhist populations.

At its core, India remains a deeply conservative nation; however, it has been touched by rapid modernization and Western influences in recent years. Some families still adhere to a traditional structure (especially in more rural areas) with generations living under the same roof, the eldest male at the head of the family and arranged marriages. But this is becoming less and less popular, particularly in larger cities, where Western ideas and societal shifts heavily influence the culture due to things like Bollywood films.

While some behavioural standards remain the same (public displays of affection are still taboo), it’s important to keep in mind that with more than one billion people speaking over 122 languages across 28 states and seven territories, it’s impossible to describe one unified culture for the entire nations and the character of India’s people can vary greatly from city to city.

Witness India's multi-faceted culture firsthand on a Delhi to Goa adventure - 15 days

Top places to visit in India

Surely there isn't a more iconic image of India than the Taj Mahal. It's spectacular and soul-stirring, but words simply aren't enough to describe the beauty of this immense mausoleum (even when it's packed with tourists). Best known as a monument to love and loss, the 17th-century building was built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a tomb for his second wife – a bold declaration of love, indeed!

Wander around Agra on our 3 day Taj Mahal Extension or on our 15 day Real Kathmandu to Delhi tour.

2. Udaipur, Rajasthan

Welcome to Udaipur, India's most romantic city that could easily give Venice a run for its money. You'll undoubtedly fall in love as you explore its grand marble palaces, shimmering lakes, and winding alleys filled with cosy chai bars and dizzying bazaars. It's also a popular hub for Indian artists, dancers, and musicians whose talents will pull you deeper under Udaipur's spell.

Get lost in the beauty of Udaipur on our 15 day Rajasthan Experience or on our 15 day Classic Rajasthan tour.

3. Ranthambhore National Park

Ranthambhore National Park was once a famous hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur, but these days it's a haven for wildlife. Jump into a 4WD and search for Bengal tigers, hyenas, jackals, deer, langurs, marsh crocodiles and more. You can also hike up to the stunning ruins of the 10th-century fort or experience the peace and tranquillity of the ancient Ganesh temple (one of the oldest temples in India).

Go wildlife spotting on our 14 day Premium India in Depth tour or on our 10 day Northern India Family Holiday.

4. Kerala Backwaters

Surrounded by tea and coffee plantations and connected by a series of blissful, palm-shaded backwaters, Kerala is a peaceful oasis deep within India's colourful chaos. Float along the dreamy waters of rural Kerala on a houseboat, paddle over to an island village on a pole boat for an overnight homestay with a local family, and enjoy traditional Keralan food served on a banana leaf.

Explore the Kerala Backwaters on our 13 day Premium South India tour or on our 13 day Classic South India tour.

5. Varanasi

Varanasi is a place that will be etched in your memory long after your time in India is over. Uncover the stories and secrets of this holy city with your local guide, get lost in the laneways, cruise along the golden Ganges at dawn, or witness ancient religious traditions and groups of pilgrims praying in the river. Even if all you do in Varanasi is sit along the ghats and watch life go by, you'll walk away with countless stories to tell.

Experience Varanasi's holiness on our 4 day Varanasi Homestay Extension , on our 11 day India Getaway or on our 11 day Real North India adventure.

This holy, desert city is one of the main pilgrimage destinations for Hindus. Explore the bustling ghats and temples around Pushkar Lake, watch devout rituals and worship at the Brahma Temple, share a meal with a local family while learning about their life and culture, or hike up the hill to the beautiful Savitri Temple for unbeatable sunrise views over the town.

Embark on a pilgrimage on our 22 day North India Revealed tour or on our 15 day Cycle Rajasthan tour.

Get ready for delicious bites and lots of Bollywood. Some say Mumbai is the food capital of India, and you'll see, smell and taste huge culinary diversity here that celebrates regional cuisines from across the country. You might also like to watch life go by at Dhobi Ghat (the world’s largest outdoor laundry), check out the Bollywood Walk of Fame, or explore the sprawling Crawford Market selling everything from fruit to jewellery.

Snack your way through Mumbai on our 15 day India Real Food Adventure .

8. Dharamsala

The mountainous Himalayan town of Dharamsala, also known as McLeod Ganj, is home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile. Tibetan culture is central to life here and it won't take long for the town's calming, grounding energy to wash over you. Sip chai and watch robed monks strolling between the monasteries, listen to the prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, and visit the Dalai Lama’s temple.

Soak up the Tibetan culture on our 13 day Mountains & Mystics of India tour.

9. Rishikesh

Not only is Rishikesh the yoga capital of the world, but it's also one of the best places to experience the sacred soul of the Ganges. Join a yoga or meditation class along the riverbanks, enjoy delicious vegetarian food in one of the many rooftop cafes, go white-water rafting down the Ganges for a different perspective of this holy river, or experience the nightly fire ritual known as Ganga Aarti at one of the city's dazzling temples.

Meditate in Rishikesh on our 19 day Best of India tour.

Tinged with Portuguese influence (and flavours!), the state of Goa boasts lovely beaches, rich traditions, World Heritage-listed buildings and mouth-watering food. Kick back with a coconut (or cocktail), join a yoga class on the beach, visit a local spice farm to learn about some of the essential ingredients in Indian cuisine, or pick up fresh ingredients at the market and cook up a storm with a local Goan cook.

Experience Goa on our 37 day Iconic India tour or on our 16 day South India Revealed tour.

The gorgeous pink stone buildings in Jaipur’s old town have earned the city its 'Pink City' nickname. Discover buzzing bazaars filled with handcrafted textiles and jewellery, dodge camel carts and rickshaws as you stroll through the streets, explore the oh-so-impressive Amber Fort, or visit the home of a local Brahmin family to learn about their culture and way of life over a delicious homemade meal.

Marvel at Jaipur's pink-hued streets on our 8 day India's Golden Triangle tour or on our 12 day India Women's Expedition.

Home to the magnificent Mysore Palace and the birthplace of Ashtanga yoga, there's no denying Mysore is one of South India's most captivating cities. Lose yourself in the grandeur of the palace's ornately decorated rooms, marvel at the intricate Hoysala architecture of Keshava Temple, go on a hunt for the tastiest idli, or share a tasty biryani lunch with a local family.

Explore Mysore on our 15 day Southern India tour.

Delhi is a place where ancient temples stand beside Bollywood billboard ads, people commute to work alongside sacred cows and monkeys, and pockets of peace exist within the chaos. The electric energy of India's capital city is palpable, and while it can take some getting used to, there's no denying the excitement of discovering new sights, sounds, tastes and smells at every turn – especially when you have a local leader by your side.

Experience the chaos of Delhi on our 15 day Delhi to Kathmandu tour or on our 9 day North India Highlights tour.

14. Thar Desert, Rajasthan

Check another item off your bucket list as you travel across the pristine dunes of the Thar Desert on camelback, stopping at a few dhanis (small villages) along the way. When you reach your camp, enjoy dinner in the relaxing desert ambience before sleeping in a comfy permanent tent under the stars. This desert safari is bound to be one of the main highlights of your adventure.

Soak into the sand on our 16 day Real Rajasthan tour or on our 11 day Rajasthan Adventure .

Food and drink

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating. Whether you're sampling street food, savouring a cheap eat or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world. Indian food is one of the world's most favoured cuisines, and travellers will be in for a real treat when visiting India. Relying heavily on spices and vegetables, vegetarians will be delighted with the multitude of meat-free dishes available and visitors will be able to notice marked differences in the cuisines of each region.

Read more about Indian food

Read more about Indian drinks

Geography and environment

India shares land borders with   Bangladesh ,   China , Pakistan,   Nepal ,   Myanmar   and   Bhutan , and also has wide stretches of coastline along the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean. As the seventh largest country in the world, India is home to a variety of terrains - the Himalayas of the north, the deserts and plains of the west, the fertile waterways of the south and the hills and forests of the east. Development is occurring at a rapid pace, with India's large, sprawling cities consisting of everything from five star hotels to shanty towns, and with modern malls and cinemas sitting comfortably alongside bazaars and street food vendors. A trip through India will reveal a diverse range of landscapes, villages, cities and environments.

History and government

Early history.

Humans have inhabited India for as long as 75,000 years, with early civilisations flourishing as early as 3300 BC. Over the centuries, India both influenced and was influenced by other nations and kingdoms, with far-reaching trade, conquest and migration spreading the subcontinent's culture far and wide. Empires rose and fell over the centuries, with the wealthy Mughal Dynasty ruling most of India by 1600. At the same time, different European nations started showing an interest in India after being brought to the area for trade. The Portuguese, Dutch, British and French all had vested interests in India, with the British East India Company being given the rights to trade in India in 1617. The 1857 rebellion and War of Independence culminated in the decline of Mughal rule and were considered the first movements against the British Raj's heavy-handed rule of the country.

Recent history

By the 1920s, India's independence movement had grown considerably with Mohandas Gandhi leading mass movements based on passive resistance and non-cooperation against the British Raj. Although it took decades, India finally gained independence in 1947. More recently, India has seen dramatic societal changes mainly due to modernisation and globalisation. A new wave of prosperity has seen the rise of the middle class, with men and women entering into new work roles in telecommunications, manufacturing and business. India's large cities are dealing with the mass migration of rural citizens, who are moving to the city to seek better employment, education and opportunities for their children.

Top 10 Sensory Experiences of India

1. potent pleasures.

Breathe in the intoxicating aroma of fresh spices while wandering through the bustling markets of India. Cardamom, coriander, cinnamon and nutmeg are classic spices of the subcontinent and aren't hard to find - the fresh scent envelopes markets across the country.

2. Fiery flavours

Treat your tastebuds to the spicy flavours of India with a traditional aromatic curry. Indulge in the heady mix of coconut milk, chilli, ginger, ghee and spices, then cool down by sipping on a refreshing Lassi - the prefect antidote to the unrelenting heat of an Indian curry.

3. Colourful chaos

Experience the urban cacophony of Delhi - a unique collision of cultures, cattle and people. Hear the rumble of cars, truck and buses, the frantic calls of street vendors and hawkers, the sizzle of food and the rustic ring of a cow bell in this unforgettable and irrepressible city.

4. In the pink

Admire the dazzling pink hues of Jaipur. Watch the historic palaces, forts, temples and monuments of the 'Pink City' be bathed in a dusky pink glow as the golden sun sets over the dramatic Aravalli Range.

5. Rat race

Walk barefoot through the Karni Mata Temple as thousands of rats scamper across the marble floor. Just felt a furry rodent scurry over your feet? Fear not - it's a sign of good luck in this unique rat-worshipping temple.

6. Instant karma

Experience the multi-sensory wonder of an Aarti ceremony on the banks of the Ganges. Hear the clanging of bells, watch the luminous glow of fire, smell wafts of pungent incense and hear rousing devotional songs and mantras. Be immersed in the fire and prayer of this Hindu ritual and be changed forever.

7. Gorgeous Goa

Sit beachside in Goa and gaze into the sublime beauty of the ocean. Take a moment to kick back and soak up the clear skies and deep blue sea of this exotic island. Watch the sun's rays shimmer on the horizon and bask in the golden glow of this balmy retreat.

8. Silky sophistication

For a slice of extravagance, feel the soft, luxurious touch of traditional Indian silk. Made in a variety of vibrant colours and perfect for making everything from saris to prayer mats and decorative hangings to upholstery, the inimitable feel of finely crafted silk is a simple pleasure in life.

9. Answered prayers

Hear the flutter of prayer flags as they flap in the wind near the isolated monasteries of Dharamsala. In a stark environment of rugged, mountainous landscapes, quietness permeates the air, except for the unique sound of prayer flags collecting prayers and sending them to the heavens above.

10. Big screen brilliance

Be treated to a feast for the senses at a bombastic Bollywood movie screening. Covet the glamorous costumes, marvel at the energetic choreography and delight in the lively music. Revel in the razzle dazzle of the whole spectacle and be swept away by the irresistible charm of India's triumphant cinematic phenomenon.

India's fragrant bazaars, modern boutiques and village markets are brimming with wares harnessing centuries of artistic traditions. With talented artisans and top quality items at low prices, India is a shopper's paradise. It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in India

1. Jewellery

From big, chunky ornate silver earrings to vibrant bangles and bold statement rings, India's silversmiths and jewellery makers ensure there are lots of pieces to choose from in the bazaars and shops.

2. Wraps, scarves and shawls

Whether you're looking for pricey pashmina, luxurious silk or colourful cotton, India has a huge variety of materials to wrap yourself in.

If you're lucky enough to be able to bring tea into your home country, then pick up some of the world's finest tea from the Darjeeling, Assam or Nilgiri regions.

Indian cotton sheets, embroidered bed spreads and colourful cushion covers can be picked up in bazaars at a fraction of the price paid elsewhere.

Many shops are open between 9 am and 7 pm, Monday through Saturday, though hours can vary at bazaars. Most shops are closed on Sunday.

Festivals and events in India

Many of India’s biggest festivals are religious and follow either the Indian lunar calendar or the Islamic calendar. The dates may change each year, but the fervour of celebration never does. Some of the best and biggest festivals to keep an eye out for in India are:

Holi (Festival of Colour)

Take a whole lot of coloured powder and water, add thousands of happy people not afraid to get a little (or a lot) dirty and you have Holi – a technicolour Hindu celebration that marks the beginning of spring and the triumph of good over evil. Celebrations take place across India in either February or March.

Diwali (Festival of Lights)

India’s biggest festival – meaning ‘rows of lighted lamps’, people decorate their homes with colourful lights, candles are lit and firework displays take place across the country. The celebrations are particularly spectacular in Varanasi, where illuminated candles and earthen lamps are floated down the Ganges River as fireworks light up the sky. This five-day festival takes place every October or November.

Gujarat Kite Festival

Large, colourful and unusual kites flood the skies of Gujarat each January to commemorate the start of summer and beginning of harvest. Purchase your own at Patang Bazaar, a famous kite market, or just watch the others dance through the sky.

Mumbai Ganesh Festival

The birth of the elephant-headed god, Ganesh, is celebrated for 10-days each August or September in cities across India, but Mumbai takes it to another level. An incredible energy can be felt throughout the city as people pack the streets for a massive party and an elaborate statue of Ganesh is paraded around.

Pushkar Camel Fair

Thousands of camels (and their owners dressed in their finest garb) descend upon Rajasthan's Pushkar for the annual camel fair. Camels are traded and raced, acrobats and performers entertain crowds at a nearby fair, while finely dressed males and bejewelled females take the chance to let their hair down.

Learn more about festivals in India

Further reading

Similar destinations.

We have a variety of similar destinations, trips and routes that you could consider! Tie another trip into your holiday, or, see how we can help you get from A to B. We have tours departing from a variety of locations around India. The options below may be of interest:

Kathmandu to Delhi Tours From Delhi Tours to Delhi

India travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Is it safe to travel to India?

India can be overwhelming sometimes, but it's generally a safe country for travellers and many people enjoy their time without any problems.

Is it safe for women to travel in India?

India can be overwhelming sometimes but most travellers enjoy their time in India without any problems. That said, some regions experience ongoing issues, and there are several things a traveller should keep in mind when travelling through India to minimise their chances of running into any trouble.

Do I need a visa to travel to India?

Yes, all foreigners entering India will need a visa. Whether you can apply for an e-visa is dependent on your nationality, the duration of your India tour and how you plan on entering the country.

This page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 22/06/2023

Is tipping customary in India?

While travelling through India, on a tour or otherwise, it’s expected one would tip porters, drivers, restaurant staff and other service workers given the low wages they earn.

What is the internet access like in India?

Internet access is generally very good in India, with most cafes, restaurants and accommodations offering free wi-fi, even in the more rural areas. There is also good phone coverage for data use if you choose to purchase a local SIM card to stay connected for the duration of your India tour.

If you do wish to purchase a local SIM in India, make sure your phone has been unlocked before your tour begins. There are quite a number of carriers that are all very competitive, but Airtel is probably the best option for travellers. You’ll need to a copy of your passport and visa to pick up a SIM, and the process can sometimes be a hassle, but rates in India are very affordable given the competition.

Can I use my mobile while in India?

Yes, you’ll be able to use your mobile phone while on an India tour, but only if you have activated global roaming or purchased a local SIM card.

What are the toilets like in India?

Squat toilets are the most common toilets in India. Always carry your own toilet paper and soap or hand sanitizer, as they are usually not provided. Flushable, Western-style toilets can be found in up-market restaurants, some higher-end hotels and in some tourist areas.

What will it cost for a...?

India’s unit of currency is the rupee:

• Cup of tea = INR 7-10
• Small bottle of beer = INR 150-350
• Meal at a local restaurant (thali, masala dosa or similar) = INR 100-200
• Meal in a tourist restaurant = INR 350-600

Can I drink the tap water in India?

India is notorious among travellers for sickness – we’ve all heard horror stories about Delhi belly. We do not recommend ever drinking tap water in India, and travellers should avoid drinks with ice and foods that haven’t been cooked or peeled. Salad is off the menu for now ­– let your inner child rejoice!

Are credit cards widely accepted in India?

Credit cards are being accepted an increasing number of cafes, shops, restaurants and hotels in India, with Mastercard and Visa being the most common. That said, cash is still king, especially outside of cities like Kolkata, Delhi and Mumbai.

What is ATM access like in India?

ATMs are widespread across India in both cities and smaller towns. Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus and Maestro are the most commonly accepted cards, but of those Visa and Mastercard are more likely to have success. The daily withdrawal limit differs from bank to bank.

What is the weather like in India?

The weather in India varies from region to region, but it’s generally safe to say that December–February sees dry, cooler weather before the heat intensifies from March–May. June, July and August are the monsoon months, though the amount of rain differs across the country, while October, September and November see rainfall ease once more.

What public holidays are celebrated in India?

India has different classifications of holidays because of the multitude of faiths in the country. There are compulsory holidays and then various others chosen by government offices within each state. The following are the compulsory ‘gazetted holidays’ taken by government offices across India:

• 26 Jan: Republic Day
• Feb/Mar: Maha Shivaratri*
• Mar/Apr: Rama Navami*
• Apr: Mahavir Jayanti*
• Mar/Apr: Good Friday*
• May: Buddha’s Birthday*
• May: Eid ul-Fitr (end of Ramadan)*
• Jul/Aug: Eid ul-Adha*
• 15 Aug: Independence Day
• Aug/Sep: Janmashtami*
• Aug/Sep: Islamic New Year*
• Sep/Oct: Dussehra*
• Oct: Birth of the Prophet Mohammed*
• 2 Oct: Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday
• Oct/Nov: Diwali*
• Nov: Guru Nanak Jayanti*
• 25 Dec: Christmas Day

* Please note, India public holidays may vary.

Is India safe for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

The majority of Indian society is still conservative, and while most travellers will have a welcoming and hospitable experience, discretion is still advised for LGBTQIA+ travellers, particularly in more remote towns and villages which may be more conservative. The same advice is also given to heterosexual couples (and couples of all other sexual orientations) as public displays of affection other than hugging and holding hands are generally frowned upon.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

Is India accessible for travellers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What to wear in India

What you decide to pack and wear in India will depend on where you are and what time of year it is. The weather across India usually follows the monsoon cycle, so it’s quite easy to plan what to pack when it comes to rain, but temperatures will vary quite a bit from the north to the south.

How do I stay safe and healthy while travelling?

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

How will I be travelling around India?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending on which trip you're on while in India, you may find yourself travelling by Jeeps.

Safari through jungles and national parks aboard a jeep, which is ideal for conquering the difficult terrain and offers supreme wildlife viewing opportunities.

Cruising the waterways of India is a revealing, inspiring experience. Whether it’s the iconic Ganges or peaceful Kerala backwaters, seeing India from the water is a must.

Travelling by train is one of the great experiences of India. It's a system which looks like chaos, but it works - and well.

Use the efficient metro to get around the sights and suburbs of Delhi.

Zip around the big cities of India by auto rickshaw.

What kind of accommodation will I be staying in?

Travelling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavour to provide travellers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When travelling with us in India you may find yourself staying in a homestay.

Make new friends, feast on authentic home cooking and receive kind hospitality while staying with friendly families in India.

With walks, wildlife spotting and adventure sports nearby, staying in a jungle resort is the perfect way to see another side of India.

From ex-royal palaces to historic hill stations and converted forts, India is full of heritage properties that have been turned into comfortable accommodation with an old-world touch.

What is it like travelling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or you’re about to embark on your first trip, travelling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organising amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), travelling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my trip to India support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveller. Trips to India directly support our foundation partner, Positive Change for Marine Life. 

Positive Change for Marine Life

Positive Change for Marine Life nurtures ocean health with community-led conservation initiatives. Donations help them expand and implement vital programs in India that empower local communities, support sustainable fishing practices, restore marine habitats and drive policy change. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

India's Golden Triangle

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• COVID-19 protected
• Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Art and architecture
• Shopping and Markets
• Customizable
• Booking Type Instant booking
• duration 8 days
• tour type Small group Request as private
• age requirement 15-99 yrs
• max group size 12
• guiding method Fully guided
• Tour Code BM-3352

• Starts New Delhi, India
• Ends New Delhi, India
• Experience the character of Old Delhi on a rickshaw and walking tour, weaving through the narrow alleyways and exploring Delhi’s oldest mosque.
• See the Taj Mahal up close and wonder at the intricate optical illusions that decorate the marble on this sumptuous masterpiece of Indian architecture.
• Tour the spectacular hillside Amber Fort and wonder at the Sheesh Mahal (Hall of Mirrors), where the walls are covered in a mosaic of reflective and coloured glass.
• Take a break from bustling cities in rural Rajasthan, where you can catch your breath and spend the night in the faded opulence of your heritage stay.
• This trip is perfect for people short on time, as long travel days are kept to a minimum on an itinerary that hits several icons of North India.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Positive Change for Marine Life. Donations help them to nurture ocean health with community-led conservation initiatives that inspire coastal restoration, sustainable fishing practices and waste-management.
• Day 1: Delhi
• Day 2: Delhi
• Day 3: Jaipur
• Day 4: Jaipur
• Day 5: Karauli
• Day 6: Fatehpur Sikri – Agra
• Day 7: Delhi
• Day 8: Delhi
• Hotel (6 nights), Heritage Property (1 night)
• 1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner
• Private vehicle , Shuttle bus , Cycle rickshaw , Auto rickshaw , Metro
• An expert tour leader
• Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque
• Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)
• Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking tour
• Jaipur - Leader-led walking & market tour
• Jaipur - Amber Fort
• Suroth Mehal - Village Walk
• Fatehpur Sikri - Guided tour
• Agra - Taj Mahal
• Agra - Agra Fort
• Agra - Sheroes Cafe Visit
• Any international flights to/from New Delhi are not included in this price. We always recommend that you arrive 1 day prior to your tour starting date.
• Travel insurance is not included in this India's Golden Triangle tour. Travel insurance is mandatory to buy. World Nomads' travel insurance has been designed by travelers for travelers.
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• Personal Itinerary can be tweaked and customized.
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No additional cancellation fees apply for this India's Golden Triangle tour. You can cancel the tour up to 58 days prior departure and avoid paying the full amount, but your deposit paid is non-refundable. No refund applies for cancellations within 57 days of departure.

For any tour departures within 22 June 2024, full payment is required. For tours that depart later than 22 June 2024, a deposit is required to confirm this tour, and the remaining balance will be charged 57 days before trip departure.

India's Golden Triangle tour requires that you have adequate and valid travel insurance covering medical and personal accidents, including repatriation costs and emergency evacuation. World Nomads offers travel insurance for independent travelers and intrepid families.

For this India's Golden Triangle tour getting the required visa(s) is the responsibility for each individual traveller, as visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. We recommend to check with your local embassies representing the countries that you are traveling to, as part of this itinerary.

• This compact trip packs a lot in. It’s the shortest Indian tour we run in our Original style, perfect for those with little time and a desire to do the most with it. If you are after a more leisurely trip in North India, enter trip codes HHSR, or HHSC on our website.
• India can get extremely hot in the summer. While we aim to do our walking tours early in the morning when it’s cooler, remember to keep water on you and to bring a hat, sunscreen, a long-sleeved shirt, and anything else that will protect you from the sun.
• Part of travelling with Intrepid means respecting local cultures and sensibilities. That way you get the most out of your interactions with local people and environments. We visit a number of temples on this trip and to enter them you must have clothes that cover to wrists and below the knee.
• Proof of vaccination against COVID-19 is no longer mandatory on departures after 1st January 2023. Nonetheless, all travellers are strongly advised to be vaccinated as a safety measure to protect themselves and others on the tour. This policy excludes all Polar trips and select adventure cruises, where testing and vaccination are required.
• Also, proof of vaccination may still be required at specific entry points or by the airlines. Therefore, please make sure to check all the travel requirements carefully before travelling.

This trip incorporates the following COVID-19 measures:

• This tour has received the World Travel and Tourism Council’s Safe Travels stamp, which provides travellers with assurance that COVID-19 health and hygiene global standardised protocols have been adopted.
• Hygiene and safety guidelines will be followed to ensure your well being is looked after during travels.

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Hello. We've booked the Golden Triangle Tour through Intrepid Travel. We're going in May. Has anyone had any experience with this specific tour? Any recommendations on the optional tours that are offered? Any recommendations on what to pack?

Tripadvisor staff removed this post because it did not meet Tripadvisor's forum guidelines with regards to the participation of business representatives.

Hi there I saw you posted about this tour group. I was curious how was your experience. I'm considering booking with them for the Golden Triangle tour as well for this coming May. Any tips or advice would be great.

Hello, John. We had a great experience with Intrepid Travel's Golden Triangle Tour. I wrote reviews on TA for each of the hotels we stayed at. Our tour guide, Raj, was great. Very friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. Intrepid Travel has a meet up app that allows travels to communicate with each other before the tour. Unfortunately, not everyone uses it. Our group of 12 was international. Six Americans, two Aussies, two Kiwis, one Canadian, and one Icelandic. Of course, each group is different. But, our group was awesome. Amazing, well-traveled people. My recommendations:

2. You may want to bring a travel convertor. Some of the hotels had extras for us to borrow. We had a lot of devices to charge. Prior to this trip, I should have purchased a 5-port high speed desktop USB charger.

3. Make sure your currency isn't worn or torn. Our hotels offered great exchange rates. Unfortunately, they wouldn't accept torn or worn bills.

4. "Delhi belly" Fortunately, we didn't experience this. Working at a health clinic, I had an arsenal of medication with me but didn't use it. You might want to bring appropriate meds as recommended by your physician. Also, we were taking anti-malarial meds as an additional precaution.

5. In Agra , we went to a particular jewelry store. I can't recall the name of it. But, after our vacation, I read lots of negative reviews about this particular store in TA. We didn't have any issues with the jewelry we purchased since it was essentially costume jewelry.

Overall, we had an amazing trip. Traveling to India changed my life. After visiting some of the smaller villages, it made me realize how incredibly blessed we are. I would love to return to India.

Thank you so much Forensicgirl. Love the detail you provided! Your info will help. One last question what type of transportation was used to get to each destination? Bus, Van, Train..... and was it air conditioned? I hear May is brutally hot.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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The Golden Triangle Tours & Holidays

Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur - the Golden Triangle of Indian cities that will capture your heart and ignite your imagination. 

While India is full of beauty from its colourful festivals and chaotic bazaars to its fascinating history and religious structures, it’s the ancient cities of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur (the tourist circuit known as the Golden Triangle) that provide the perfect introduction into this country’s culture, spirituality, and cuisine . Embark on an epic journey through Rajasthan as you traverse its unforgettable landscapes, get lost in its vibrant cities, and get up close with its iconic attractions such as the Taj Mahal, Amber Fort, and the Red Gate on our Golden Triangle tours and holidays. 

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India's Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Why is this tourist circuit called the Golden Triangle?

Made up of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, the Golden Triangle is named for the triangular shape made by the locations of the three cities. 

Is it safe to visit the Golden Triangle?

In general, India is a pretty safe country to travel to as long as you keep these things in mind:

• Stick to well-lit and populated areas at night 
• Travel in groups to unfamiliar places
• Always keep an eye on your personal belongings.

The regions/cities visited as part of the Golden Triangle circuit aren't experiencing any political or civil unrest. You shouldn't get into trouble if you heed the above recommendations. 

What kind of transportation is used to travel around the Golden Circle?

As Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur are relatively close.

The primary mode of transportation between the destinations is a private vehicle so you can travel in comfort and get to know your fellow group members along the way.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

India's Golden Triangle

India's golden triangle.

8 Days Starting and ending in Delhi

Visiting: Delhi, Jaipur, Karauli, Fatehpur Sikri – Agra

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

Physical rating:.

15-99 years

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

Trip styles:.

Small Group

Cultural , Foodie and Wine Tours , History

Activities:

Sightseeing , Walking

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour overview.

Trace India’s famous Golden Triangle on this rollicking 8-day tour of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. Explore the icons and discover local spots in the perfect introduction to the diverse north of this fascinating country. Begin in throbbing Delhi and explore the city by rickshaw and metro. Travel to romantic Jaipur to wonder at the pink-hued architecture and the 18th-century observatory. Get a little respite from the bustle with a rural heritage stay, then head to Agra and encounter the iconic Taj Mahal plus the city’s incredible fort. Before you know it, you’re back in Delhi, ordering chaat like a pro and toasting a chai to an incredible adventure.

Experience the character of Old Delhi on a rickshaw and walking tour, weaving through the narrow alleyways and exploring Delhi’s oldest mosque.

See the Taj Mahal up close and wonder at the intricate optical illusions that decorate the marble on this sumptuous masterpiece of Indian architecture.

Tour the spectacular hillside Amber Fort and wonder at the Sheesh Mahal (Hall of Mirrors), where the walls are covered in a mosaic of reflective and coloured glass.

Take a break from bustling cities in rural Rajasthan, where you can catch your breath and spend the night in the faded opulence of your heritage stay.

This trip is perfect for people short on time, as long travel days are kept to a minimum on an itinerary that hits several icons of North India.

By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Positive Change for Marine Life. Donations help them to nurture ocean health with community-led conservation initiatives that inspire coastal restoration, sustainable fishing practices and waste-management.

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Day 1: Delhi

Location: delhi, accommodation: hotel.

Namaste! Welcome to India. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive with hours (or days) to spare, consider striking out on your own, perhaps to visit the World Heritage-listed Humayun's Tomb. A great (and tasty) way to get under the city’s skin in very little time is to book an Urban Adventure like the Delhi City Food Crawl. After the 6 pm meeting, head out for an optional meal with your group at a local restaurant. Optional Activities: - Delhi - Humayun's Tomb - Delhi - Delhi Food Walk Urban Adventure - Delhi - Red Fort - Delhi - Gandhi's Delhi Urban Adventure

Day 2: Delhi

Join your group leader on an excursion through Old Delhi. Ride the city’s metro system, and then hop in a rickshaw to the once water-filled square of Chandni Chowk. Discover the Jama Masjid, Delhi’s oldest mosque, before learning about the history of the Sikh religion at the Sheeshganj Gurudwara. Included Activities: - Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque - Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple) - Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking tour

Day 3: Jaipur

Location: jaipur.

Travel by private vehicle into Rajasthan and on to its capital, Jaipur (approximately 5 - 6 hours). A friendly, busy city crammed with palaces and bazaars full of jewellery, textiles and folk arts, Jaipur is a favourite for many travellers. Our suggestions are to stop by the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds), then head over to Jaipur's Royal City Palace and explore its extravagant rooms and apartments. Later, discover one of the five astronomical observatories built by Maharaja Jai Singh, the founder of Jaipur. Included Activities: - Jaipur - Leader-led walking & market tour Optional Activities: - Jaipur - City Palace - Jaipur - Jantar Mantar Observatory - Jaipur - Bollywood Movie at Raj Mandir Cinema

Day 4: Jaipur

Choose to take an early morning hot air balloon experience, often a highlight of visiting Jaipur. Ballooning can be done over Jaipur on the morning of day four between September and June. Mid-afternoon visit the Amber Fort. Set on a hilltop overlooking Maota Lake, the fort is an authentic example of Rajput architecture and the Sheesh Mahal (Hall of Mirrors) is one of its more spectacular buildings. Included Activities: - Jaipur - Amber Fort Optional Activities: - Jaipur - Balloon Safari

Day 5: Karauli

Location: karauli, accommodation: heritage property, meals included: dinner.

Leave the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur behind and drive to the village of Suroth Mahal in Karauli (approximately 5-6 hours). This delightful town was founded in 1348 and is packed with rural ambiance and traditional temples. Take a guided walk around the Old Quarter, interacting with friendly locals and learning about rural Indian life off the tourist trail. Be sure to visit the eclectic market stalls along the way and sample some seasonal local sweets made from Indian ingredients, including petha (pumpkin), jaggery (organic sugar), peanut brittle, and gazak (sesame seeds). Stay in a restored heritage property tonight where dinner is included. Included Activities: - Suroth Mahal - Village Walk

Day 6: Fatehpur Sikri – Agra

Location: fatehpur sikri – agra, meals included: breaksfast.

On the journey to Agra, stop en route at the one-time capital of the Mughal empire, Fatehpur Sikri (approximately 4 hours). Its stunning mosque displays both Persian and Hindu design and is secured by a 54-metre high entrance. Once in Agra, there’s the option of visiting the marble tomb that was saved for the greatest of the Mughal Emperors, Akbar's Mausoleum. The day then culminates in a visit to the Taj Mahal, built in the 1640s as a memorial to the wife of Emperor Shah Jahan. Included Activities: - Fatehpur Sikri - Guided tour - Agra - Taj Mahal Optional Activities: - Agra - Additional entries to Taj Mahal

Day 7: Delhi

Meals included: lunch.

In the morning, take a guided tour along the banks of the Yamuna River to the iconic Agra Fort. Originally designed by Emperor Akbar in 1565 to be a military structure, it was converted into a palace during Emperor Shah Jahan's reign and later became his prison. Perhaps stop for lunch at Sheroes Hangout, a vegetarian & vegan cafe. This beautiful cafe is a one of kind social enterprise providing employment and opportunities for women who were the victims of acid attacks. In the early afternoon, take the 3-4 hour journey back to Delhi by private bus. Arrive back at the hotel with enough time to freshen up and decide where to enjoy one final dinner with the group. Included Activities: - Agra - Agra Fort - Agra - Sheroes Cafe Visit

Day 8: Delhi

There are no activities planned for the final day and you're able to depart the accommodation at any time. Check out time from the hotel is 12 noon. If you are departing later, you can arrange luggage storage at the hotel. If you decide to stay an extra couple of days, there are plenty of activities in and around the city to enjoy. Optional Activities: - Delhi - Home-Cooked Delhi Urban Adventure - Delhi - Culture Vulture Delhi Urban Adventure

What's Included

• Agra - Agra Fort

Accommodation

Hotel (6 nights), Heritage Property (1 night)

Private vehicle, Shuttle Bus, Cycle rickshaw, Auto rickshaw, Metro

1 breakfast, 1 dinner

• Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking & rickshaw tour

Delhi — Jama Masjid

• Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)

Jaipur — Leader-led walking & market tour

Jaipur — Amber Fort

Karauli — Village walk

Fatehpur Sikri — Guided tour

• Agra - Taj Mahal

Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque

Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking tour

• Jaipur - Leader-led walking & market tour
• Jaipur - Amber Fort

Suroth Mehal - Village Walk

• Fatehpur Sikri - Guided tour

Agra - Sheroes Cafe Visit

Suroth Mahal - Village Walk

What's Not Included

Tipping and Gratuities

International Travel

• TRANSPORT IN INDIA:
• Main roads in India are usually very busy with an assortment of vehicles from the biggest trucks (who always have right of way) down to bikes (and animals!). Overtaking on blind corners at speed is common as is the total use of the horn as a form of communication. Our leaders have complete authority to remove groups from local transport if the driver is not driving safely. Drivers of our private vehicles are experienced and well trained. if you are uncomfortable with your driver, please always let your tour leader know immediately. Please ensure you wear your seat belt at all times.
• TRAVEL TIMES:
• Distances in India do not reflect the driving time and to cover 100km may take much longer than you would expect at home, even if much of the route is on a highway.
• India has a massive network of trains and millions of people travel by rail every day. Trains often travel the length of the country over several days. Trains are a great way to see the countryside and get you away from the busy road system. Delays and cancellations are common on trains. Your tour leader will check the train status to see if there are delays and will do their best to keep you informed of any changes.
• From December to February, delays are more common, especially in the north of the country due to fog. It’s not uncommon for trains to be delayed for up to 12 hours. On occasion, your trip will may to be rerouted to allow for these delays. Your tour leader in conjunction with our local office will advise any changes to the itinerary.
• The Indian Railway system is one of the largest railway networks in the world and quite complex. Seat allocation is completely computerized on a centralized reservation system and we do not have control over seat allocations. Despite booking tickets months in advance of a departure your group's seats, or sleeping berths on overnight trains, maybe spread out within one carriage or multiple carriages of the same class. There’s a chance you’ll be sharing a compartment with local travelers of either gender.
• For a detailed look into the experience of travelling by overnight trains read more here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/india-trains-guide/
• AUTO RICKSHAWS:
• On this trip, we travel on the local style of transport called an auto-rickshaw. These small, motorised three-wheeled vehicles are a common form of transport in India and do not have seatbelts.
• Airlines in India are of excellent quality. Airports are becoming more modern (especially in the major and tourist cities). To enter the airport, you must have a copy of your flight ticket and passport. Schedule changes and delays do occur, especially when weather conditions make visibility poor.

Included Activities

• Delhi - Jama Masjid
• Karauli - Village walk
• The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
• Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
• ACCOMMODATION:
• Some of the accommodation along the way is basic or simple, staying in local guesthouses and homestays. Some may have shared bathroom facilities with cold water only. We use a mixture of air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned rooms. Some areas of India experience daily load shedding. This is where the power may be turned off at certain times of the day and usually occurs for a few hours in the early afternoon. Most hotel properties have a restaurant or cafe serving local meals. Many restaurants and hotels do not serve alcohol for religious reasons or due to local laws.
• Showers at some hotels only have hot water at peak times (usually morning and evening). Outside of these times, you may need to speak to reception to obtain hot water.
• ROOM ISSUES:
• If you have any issues with your room, please speak to the hotel and your tour leader right away rather than your travel agent so that the problem can be addressed without delay.

Important Information

• 1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
• 2. Hot air balloon flights are operated by Sky Waltz in Jaipur. Flights operate from September 1st to April 30th and last approximately 60 mins. Return transfers, tea and coffee plus light refreshments, and a certificate of flight are included in the cost. You can register your interest and pay your tour leader at your joining meeting on day 1 of your trip. Payment must be made by cash in either INR/AUD/USD/GBP only and is USD$280pp (subject to change). Flights are subject to availability and weather conditions (tickets are fully refundable in case of bad weather).
• 3. Please provide your full name exactly as it appears on your passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport. Fees may apply for adding or amending details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases, you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket.

Check out our Q&As

Will there be an escort accompanying this tour.

A tour leader will be with you throughout the trip, except for free time

What happens if a group doesn’t make its minimum required number of passengers?

This trip will run with just one person booked on

Are all entrance fees included in the price?

Yes, except optional activities

Are airport transfers included in this tour?

No but we can arrange these for you at an additional cost

Are internal flights included in this tour?

All transport while you're on the tour, including flights is included. International airfares are not included, but we can arrange these for you at an additional cost

Do you require a visa for this holiday?

Visas are the responsibility of the traveller and vary depending on your nationality, please speak to the relevant consular or embassy regarding your travel plans. While we will not arrange a visa for you, should you need any supporting documents from the operator, we can provide these for you’

Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?

Is free wi-fi available in the accommodation used, is there a supplement for solo travellers.

Yes. All prices listed are on a twin-share basis. If you are travelling solo, you can pay the twin-share rate to be roomed with another solo traveller of the same sex. Alternatively a single supplement is available for an additional cost. Single supplements are subject to availability.

Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?

We are a global company, on most of our tours we will have passengers from all over the world joining.

Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

What currencies are required for this tour, are vaccinations required for this tour.

Please speak to a medical profession regarding vaccinations before you travel

What is the fitness level required to do this tour?

The trip is requires a reasonable level of fitness as you will be exploring the places you visit on foot. There are no strenuous activities included.

Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?

If you wish to have a hotel list, please ask a booking agent. Please note, these are subject to change.

Is this trip right for you

This compact trip packs a lot in. It’s the shortest Indian tour we run in our Original style, perfect for those with little time and a desire to do the most with it. If you are after a more leisurely trip in North India, enter trip codes HHSR, or HHSC on our website. India can get extremely hot in the summer. While we aim to do our walking tours early in the morning when it’s cooler, remember to keep water on you and to bring a hat, sunscreen, a long-sleeved shirt, and anything else that will protect you from the sun. Part of travelling with Intrepid means respecting local cultures and sensibilities. That way you get the most out of your interactions with local people and environments. We visit a number of temples on this trip and to enter them you must have clothes that cover to wrists and below the knee.

What is the maximum group size?

Is the tour coach air conditioned, what policies are in place for covid-19.

Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

How long has the tour company been trading?

Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

What ethical travel credentials does the tour company have.

Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this Operator

North american adventure.

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

Cambodia Discovery

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

Explore Southern Africa

Best trip ever was, 2 things I didn't like the black mamba stop was wasting day and village ,so 2 night I think was just wasting, I could do 2 days in Kruger, and one more night in delta

Amazing Guatemala and beyond tour with Intrepid

Did Guatemala and beyond trip in November 22. It was amazing, we were so well looked after by our guide Aura. She was very knowledgeable and during our bus trips she gave us the history of the 4 countries. The border crossings can be tricky but handled very well by our guide. We saw all the most interesting and beautiful places. The hotels were lovely comfortable colonial style. I will travel with intrepid again

Central American Journey

Very enjoyable, good paced Tour. Tour Leader, Choko was helpful, knowledgeable and extremely informative.

Wonderful Croatian tour

Our tour guide,Tamara, was the highlight of our Explore Croatia tour. She was knowledgeable, organized, and so kind and fun. Croatia is a beautiful country. I loved the people, the scenery, the food, the history. I hope to go back one day. Intrepid was perfect for me. There was group time and there was plenty of free time. It wasn’t a luxury tour but all of our accommodations were clean and safe. The dinner in Hvar was SO special!

One Week In Costa Rica

The trip was amazing, everything was well planned out & there wasn't any issues. The tour guide was very friendly and made the experience fun. During the trip I didn't have to worry about safety as we were never put in harms way. I would definitely recommend & do again.

North Morocco Adventure

Touring the beautiful North of Morocco I learned far more than I’d anticipated in this 9 day tour. Interesting sights to see, with knowledgeable local guides, this tour provides a great balance of exposure to a different culture with ample time for relaxation. Chefchaouen is an absolute highlight, & not a place many Morocco trips of this kind go to. Loved it!

Essential Morocca

Essential Morocco was an absolute dream. Every single day had such informative walking tours and tours of local facilities. Whether it was dinner with a local family or visiting a pottery factory, I learned so much about Moroccan culture. The accommodations were safe and I felt secure the entire 11 days. This trip wouldn’t have been the same without one person. That person is Youssef. If you are coming to Morocco with Intrepid and you don’t request Youssef, you’re doing it wrong. Words cannot describe how incredible of a guide he is. There were 3 of us on our trip of 18-29 year olds and he made us all feel so welcome and safe all the time. Whether that is cracking jokes on long drives or giving us the itinerary for the next day, Youssef ensured we felt respected and seen.

Cambodia Adventure

Absolutely superb leader - knowledgeable. fun, safety conscious. Group of 15 travellers from 5 countries who bonded into a solid team. In addition to a fantastic itinerary, our leader’s love of karaoke made the trip unforgettable. It even inspired a song written as a tribute to him.

Dates & Availability

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Monday - Monday

Operator discount: -$148 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$23 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Operator discount: -$160 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$25 (USD)

Operator discount: -$154 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$24 (USD)

Operator discount: -$156 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Tuesday - Tuesday

Operator discount: -$158 (USD)

Operator discount: -$162 (USD)

Operator discount: -$169 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$26 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$29 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$30 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$28 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$31 (USD)

Friday - Friday

Wednesday - Wednesday

Book with Confidence

Free date changes.

Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

Transfer as credit to Future Tours

Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

Low Deposit

Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

Cancellation Policy

We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

COVID Protection

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19. However, we continue to strongly recommend that all travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and other Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully. This policy excludes all Polar trips and select adventure cruises, where testing and vaccination remains a requirement. Please refer to the Essential Trip Information of your chosen tour for more details.

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Golden Triangle Tours for Solo / Single Travelers

250+ golden triangle tours for singles / solo travelers with 4,902 reviews.

• In-depth Cultural
• Sightseeing
• Christmas & New Year

India Golden Triangle Tour - 6 Days - All Inclusive

We landed in New Delhi at early morning so we met by driver who was there for us. We had really wonderful holiday in India and everything was well planned. Highly recommend!

Explore Golden Triangle

Good guides, excellent driver and amazing sites.

5 Days Private Golden Triangle India tour from New Delhi

I have booked a Golden triangle tour of India for my self and 5 other friends from 3-7 March(5 days).. from the start of the booking to the end of our trip all was well organised and very efficiently managed. We had a very good driver Mr Yasmin for the all trip,who couldn’t do enough to be helpful and attentive,we had 4 tour guides in all,and all of them very helpful and professional..The tour company that organised the actual tour in India was based I think in Agra.. the in charge person I think was Ahil and always available for resolving any questions.Will be using tourradar in the future as I know they do tours all over the world..a 5 star experience..Thank you..Vincenzo

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

India's Top Selling Golden Triangle India Tour w/ Meals and Sunrise Taj Mahal

Thanks to the whole team at Swastik India for the wonderful tour. I’ll be booking more tours in the future.

Delhi Taj Mahal And Jaipur Pink City 3 Days

Amazing sights and a good experience, but not exactly as advertised. I booked a group tour, however it ended up (for reasons unknown to me) that I had a private tour. May sound like an upgrade, but as a woman traveling solo it was not preference. Tour guides were locals and very friendly, with great English skills. Although be prepared to be shown into a couple showrooms where you will have to be very insistent if you don't wish to buy anything. Very calm and comfortable with my driver also. Communication and organisation with the tour company was quite poor however. I was not informed that the group tour I booked had become a private tour or what my accommodation would be until I prompted the company a couple before departure. I also was not picked up or dropped of at my accommodation in Noida despite that being offered online.

Golden Triangle Tour - 3 Days

I had a really great adventure overall. My favorite experiences were On Day 2 in Agra. My Tour guide, Hilal was an incredibly kind, patient, knowledgeable and genuine person to share the day with across Taj Mahal, Red Fort and the many beautifully skilled spaces of local craftspeople. I’m very appreciative for his attentiveness; always being available to answer my questions, sometimes even before I could asked them. Hilal took some of the best photos of me from my entire trip. Which, as a solo traveler, can be such a luxury to have. And for Sunil, he’s the coolest driver! Very personable and very professional! He made the experience all the more comfortable, safe and timely. He went above and beyond helping me check into each hotel, always making sure I had water/food during our travels and plenty of rest stops for bio breaks. I also noticed that he was protective of the vehicle, not allowing some pedestrians to beg for money if the surrounding circumstances made it likely. In turn, I felt very comfortable and grateful traveling with him through all three days. Not to mention the convenience afforded to my tour guides and I, being dropped off and picked up directly in front of each destination. Thank You! Thank you! Thank you!

India's Golden Triangle

The tour was great. Well organised and well run by Javid ,my guide. I found that I got tired quickly and he adapted what was expected of me. The driver was also very reassuring with nerves of steel. I felt safe and was looked after throughout the trip.

Golden Triangle

Although I LOVED everything about this trip, I have to say that the experience was 10 times enhanced by our amazing CEO, Manvendra. He went above and beyond and truly made this the trip of a lifetime

4 Days Mini Golden Triangle India Tour

Tour was a good balance between busy time and down time, and each guide gave us time to walk around the sites ourselves without rushing. Each city had a different local guide and they were all good with their level of English as well as knowledge of the actual sites. Each guide added in additional local stops (usually for shopping) which we appreciated. The overall star of our trip was Guddu, the world's best driver. He was our driver for the whole 4 days and was absolutely essential for everything to run smoothly.

Taj Mahal, Tiger and Pink City

We had a great time in India. The tour manager Mr. Amit was very responsive to all my questions and issues prior to the trip and was waiting for us to greet us at the first hotel. Our driver Mr. Vikram was great too. He was very professional and was always on time waiting for us each day. We absolutely loved our local guide in Jaipur. He was so professional, knowledgeable and quick that we felt we were very well taken care of. Now here’s the reason I can’t give 5 stars to this tour. It was the hotel in Jaipur and the local guide in Delhi. The hotel was not up to the standard of 3 stars at all. The bathroom was disgusting, moldy and gross. They called us around 10pm asking us to order room service both nights we stayed. It was the most horrible service that I have ever experienced at any hotels around the world. Now the local guide in Delhi, he made us decide to say goodbye after 3 hours. We never had a problem tipping people at all until the rickshaw ride (which was included in the tour). It was such a turn off moment for us when the guide asked us to tip them 200 for a 200 ride. He was also on the personal phone calls a lot, which made us feel that he really didn’t want to be there at all for us. We had to call it a day.

Super Saver: India Golden Triangle Tour - 6 Days

We did Private India Golden Triangle tour and stayed for three nights in Delhi as wanted all went well as per programme

Golden Triangle Tour with Varanasi

Loved the tour. All the sights were beautiful and the guides did tremendous job in explaining about the history. Varanasi was the highlight of the tour.

Luxury 3 Day Golden Triangle With 5 star Hotel

Luxury India Tour (Delhi, Agra and Jaipur- 7 days Golden Triangle)-5 star Hotel

Easiest booking ever made. Great hotels, great driver, car could have been slightly larger to make it more comfortable but the whole trip was excellent. I would definitely recommend a private tour as we could tailor just about our whole day to suit us. Would definitely book again.

Majestic India & Bhutan Tour

We stayed small hotels that was neat and clean and it is good value of money and highly recommend to book on tourradar which is best tour sites

What people love about Golden Triangle Solo Tours

Really well organised and thought out tour…guides were all informative and made sure we got the most out of the tour…and our driver was fantastic.

This was a great introduction to India, even though it is a small part of the country. The itinerary was good and the hotels were very comfortable. Our driver, Dinesh, was professional, personable and helpful. He was a very welcoming person when we were collected at the airport. 2 out of 3 of the girds were very good. They were helpful and flexible. The third, in Delhi, was good but we had some reservations over a few things. The communication was good and meeting with Amit, the tour organiser at the beginning was helpful and reassuring. The tour was very reasonably priced. We would highly recommend taking a Yolo tour, especially this one.

Well organised and great guides - different guide in each city

• Seniors tours (272)

Travel Styles

• Budget (164)
• Luxury (161)
• Singles and Solo (700)
• For Couples (182)
• Seniors (272)

Intrepid Travel

Health Safety +

Northern Lights Escape

Blue Lagoon, Gullfoss, Jokulsarlon

• On this trip we are travelling in our own private minibus as this allows us to reach some more off the beaten path destinations and gives us flexibility which would not be possible by public transport. And on top of that all our vehicles in Iceland have complimentary Wi-Fi.
• There's a lot more to Iceland than ice and vikings. Follow the scenic 'Golden Circle', visiting geothermal springs and geysers, the mighty waterfall of Gullfoss and the site of the nation's first parliament at Thingvellir
• Drive along the island’s spectacular South Shore past the Reynisdrangar Rocks and volcanic black sand beaches
• Head to Skaftafell National Park and get adventurous with a hike to Vatnajokull, Europe's largest glacier
• The aurora borealis is the best lightshow on Earth, and this trip is your ticket. Stay up late to see the northern sky dance with green light (subject to weather conditions and activity)

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays

Iceland Discovery

Akureyri, Blue Lagoon, Jokulsarlon, Lake Myvatn, Reykjavík, Skogafoss, Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Thingvellir National park

• There's a lot more to Iceland than ice (and Bjork). Ford the fjords, glaciers, volcanoes and black sand beaches, and consider adding on a visit to the renowned Blue Lagoon for a soak in the geothermal springs.
• Spend the evening at the quirky farm town of Modrudalur – an isolated settlement and the highest inhabited place in Iceland and enjoy a home-cooked dinner at our guesthouse at Snaefellsnes.
• Walk to the mottled blue, grey and black tongue of Vatnajokull glacier – an ice cap so large it covers eight per cent of the country – and discover the incredible Skogafoss Waterfall.
• Glide past blue-white icebergs on an included boat tour of Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon and soak up the silence of the surrounding grey sand desert..
• Experience the unearthly scenery at Namaskard, where steam rises from the sulphuric terrain and take a walk around the lava stacks and caves of Dimmuborgir.

High Adventure, Nature & Wildlife

Explore Jordan

Amman, Dead Sea, Hadrian's Wall, Jerash, Jerusalem, Kerak Castle, Madaba, Petra, Wadi Rum

• With an included two-day pass to majestic Petra, you will not only have a guided tour of the complex but will also spend time at your leisure to focus on the sections that interest you.
• Experience the best buoyance this side of outer space with time for your small group to effortlessly float in the super-salty waters of the Dead Sea.
• Hop in a jeep and see the extraordinary desert scenery of Wadi Rum – a rugged lunar-like landscape of huge sandstone mountains and ancient structures hidden in the sandy dunes.
• After your day of four-wheel-driving in Wadi Rum, spend a night under the stars with a special experience at a desert camp run by Bedouin locals – full of good food and warm hospitality.
• Marvel at the well-preserved ancient Roman city of Jerash on a guided tour, and discover the religious significance and Ottoman and Byzantine influence in Madaba.

Cultural, High Adventure, Hiking & Walking

Why we love Intrepid Travel

They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.

Galapagos Discovery

Galapagos, Isabela Island, Otavalo, Quito, San Cristobal, Santa Cruz

• Get your blood pumping as you scale Sierra Negra Volcano during an epic hike, then cool off with a swim in the perfect waters of Isla Isabela’s beaches.
• Many come to Isla Santa Cruz just for the giant tortoises. Get up close and personal with these enormous animals as they drag themselves through the sand.
• Learn about the unique habits of the marine iguana. This dinosaur-like little creature has an iridescent sheen and is only found on the Galapagos Islands.
• Birdwatching at the Galapagos is quite an experience. Watch the aerobatic routines of blue-footed boobies and the death defying stunts of the frigate birds as they whizz through the air.
• This trip combines plenty of must-try activities and islands with generous mounts of free time, so you can explore the Galapagos at your own pace.

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

Best of Galapagos

Cotopaxi, Darwin, Galapagos, Galapagos Islands, Guayaquil, Otavalo, Quito, Ronda, San Cristobal, Santa Cruz

• Explore the islands on this in-depth adventure, coming face-to-face with some of the most extraordinary wildlife on earth.
• Get your blood pumping as you scale a volcano on Isabela Island.
• Acquaint yourself with the beautiful churches and graceful boulevards of Quito, Ecuador's capital.
• Get up close and personal with giant tortoises on Santa Cruz Island. These nearly extinct creatures are one of the greatest drawcards to the Galapagos.
• This is a land based Galapagos trip, meaning you'll use locally owned hotels on the islands and have more opportunities to interact with the locals as opposed to staying on a boat.

Cycling & Biking, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Trekking & Expeditions

India's Golden Triangle

Agra, Delhi, Jaipur, Rajasthan, Taj Mahal

• Experience the character of Old Delhi on a rickshaw and walking tour, weaving through the narrow alleyways and exploring Delhi’s oldest mosque.
• See the Taj Mahal up close and wonder at the intricate optical illusions that decorate the marble on this sumptuous masterpiece of Indian architecture.
• Tour the spectacular hillside Amber Fort and wonder at the Sheesh Mahal (Hall of Mirrors), where the walls are covered in a mosaic of reflective and coloured glass.
• Take a break from bustling cities in rural Rajasthan, where you can catch your breath and spend the night in the faded opulence of your heritage stay.
• This trip is perfect for people short on time, as long travel days are kept to a minimum on an itinerary that hits several icons of North India.

Mexico Unplugged

Central America, Chichen Itza, Mexico City, Palenque, Playa del Carmen, San Cristobal

• Visit the community of San Pedro Tlahuac, home to Nahuatl descendants who practice traditions like chinampa farming, fiestas and ancient ceremonies.
• Wander the stalls, snap some photos and pick up traditional handicrafts at the markets in Mexico City and Puebla.
• Escape the Mexican heat in the highlands of San Cristobal de las Casas and explore surrounding villages where traditional customs and roots are thriving.
• Explore the stunning Mayan temples of Palenque dating back to AD600 and stroll through Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
• Finish off your epic journey and recharge with a little beach time in the beachside hub of Playa del Carmen.

Costa Rica Experience

La Fortuna, Manuel Antonio National Park, Monteverde

• Try to spot the elusive resplendent quetzal when you’re exploring Monteverde’s steamy cloud forests. Better yet, why not consider a jungle zip-line to get high in the sky for the best views?
• Spend time wandering through the Mercado Municipal de Artesanias artisan stalls in San Jose – Costa Rica’s cultural heart. With plenty of time to stop for a refresco (smoothie), this is a good opportunity to people-watch.
• Lend a hand at a farmstay outside of Santa Rosa de Pocosol and learn some home-cooked recipes and techniques from the locals on a visit to the Juanilama agricultural community.
• Marvel at the size and stature of the Arenal Volcano on the horizon, maybe taking a soak and relaxing in La Fortuna’s lava-heated thermal springs.
• With plenty of time to chill out at your own pace, Quepos’ surf vibe is ideal for catching some waves, lazing on the white-sand beaches or hiking the lush trails of Manuel Antonio with your travel pals.

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Golden Triangle: A Russian Hotspot with a Timeless, Opulent Feel

The st. petersburg neighborhood offers a picturesque setting on the water alongside highly ornate palaces and museums, the top of smolny cathedral's bell tower, newsletter sign-up, daily briefing.

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Traditionally known as the grandest and most expensive part of St. Petersburg, Russia, the Golden Triangle, with its romantic canal and riverside setting rich in ornate palaces and mansions from its imperial past, has long been a property hot spot.

Many urban bohemians and foreigners as well as Muscovites and oligarchs from oil- and gas-producing regions of Russia aspire to buy real estate here, said Ekaterina Nemchenko, head of the residential department at Knight Frank in St. Petersburg.

More: Click to Tour a Russian Country House Fit for a Czar

However, the market has been impacted by the international sanctions that were imposed during the Ukrainian crisis in 2014. Overseas buyers are more cautious about buying in Russia, agents said, although there are no restrictions on investors from countries imposing the sanctions investing in homes in the country apart from areas near its borders.

Due to a decline in the Russian ruble, demand for investment properties from buyers in regions within the Russian Federation has slightly increased in the first half of this year compared to the first half of last year, Ms. Nemchenko said.

The weakening of the Russian ruble has created a decline in the cost of properties priced in foreign currency, particularly in U.S. dollars and euros, Ms. Nemchenko explained. "Because some of the buyers hold part of their funds in foreign currency, the purchase of homes in Russia has become more affordable compared to the same period a year ago."

More: Moscow’s Luxury Rents Rise Faster Than Any Other City

Pavel Savinykh, of Engel & Volkers in St. Petersburg, said that prices for properties in the Golden Triangle with desirable views have grown by 20% to 25% since 2014. "There is demand for around 100 square meter homes with one and two bedrooms that have views of water and iconic buildings. Prices can start from RUB343,304 (US$5,103) per square meter.."

Boundaries 

This triangular-shaped neighborhood is part of the Admiralteysky District, a central location bordered by rivers and canals facing the Baltic Sea.

The Neva River creates its east and north boundaries while the Fontanka River forms its western border.

Its southern edge is Nevsky Prospect, the main street in the city where there are notable shopping destinations and cultural attractions.

Housing stock

The Golden Triangle has apartment blocks, former palaces and grand mansion houses, some of which overlook the water. There is an abundance of baroque and neoclassical 18th and 19th-century stone buildings as well as more mundane-looking buildings.

More: A Historic, Exclusive Moscow Neighborhood that is Home to Celebrities and State Officials

Newly built buildings are non-existent, Ms. Nemchenko said. "No new buildings have been built in the Golden Triangle over the past 10 years. It’s mostly restored or renovated homes."

The city has undergone a construction boom of recent decades, but this area still has many rundown buildings. The most dilapidated properties tend to be communal apartments, or kommunalka, which are large, subdivided apartments once owned by the nobility where several families live and share facilities.

A type of housing created during the Soviet era, these ripe-for-renovation properties are not easy to buy because a developer would need to negotiate with each of the residents if they wanted to purchase the property.

The most in-demand properties with foreigners previously were apartments on the river embankments, Ms. Nemchenko said. "This is because they have beautiful views and proximity to the different monuments and parks.

More: Click for more profiles of high-end neighborhoods around the world

"Malaya Konyushennaya Street and Shvedskiy Lane were also popular because they are pedestrian-only streets."

The main drawback to living in the Golden Triangle, agents said, is that there is not enough off-street parking for the amount of housing. Additionally, some prime home buyers are put off by the lack of the properties in private surroundings, which, Ms. Nemchenko said, is an integral part of elite housing in Russia.

The Kusheleva-Bezborodko Museum is only new residential project in the area at the moment, according to Ms. Nemchenko. The state-owned building has been renovated and feature well-preserved interiors.

Price Range 

As the area has quite a diverse range of housing types, prices vary from street to street and property to property.

Prices start from as little as RUB114,568 (US$1,702) per square meter and go up to RUB1,795,250 ($26,673) per square meter, according to Mr. Savinykh. He said that the most expensive homes sell from between RUB611,149 (US$9,081) per square meter and RUB763,936 (US$11,352) per square meter.

The Admiralteisky area only has 6% of the prime flats in the city, according to the 2017 Knight Frank St Petersburg Prime Residential Real Estate Market Report.

A property sold for a record-breaking price of RUB259,330,389 (US$3.8 million) last year, according to Mr. Savinykh, showing that prices are still quite affordable compared with other European cities.

The most expensive home on the market at the moment is an apartment on Bolshaya Konyushennaya Street. The 190-square-meter property has refurbished interiors and is on the market for RUB343,231,398 (US$5.1 million), or around RUB1,792,430 (US$26,635) per square meter.

In the first half of this year, there were 16 apartments on sale, according to Knight Frank. A total of three flats were sold in first half of 2018 in the Golden Triangle.

What Makes it Unique 

Known as the palace quarter, the Golden Triangle was where most of the nobility in St. Petersburg used to live before the Russian Revolution in 1917.

It has a timeless, opulent feel, with its picturesque and serene waterways and treasure trove of European-style architecture and highly ornate palaces and museums.

This district of St. Petersburg beats all records in terms of the number of worldwide known historical places, Ms. Nemchenko said.

"Most of the iconic cultural and recreational facilities are concentrated here," she said.

Its opulent architecture and romantic quays and bridges are classically beautiful, Mr. Savinykh added.

Luxury Amenities 

High-end shopping can be found on Bolshaya Konyushennaya Street, where there are boutiques by Italian fashion brand Brunello Cucinelli, a ready-to-wear and made-to-measure Italian clothing brand Kiton, Prada, French-Swiss watchmaker Tourbillon and Gucci, as well as a design gallery by the high-end kitchen company Bulthaup.

Nevsky Prospekt  has a Comme des Garcons outlet, a boutique by the Ukrainian-born fashion designer Tatyana Parfionova; Meldes, a coat designer and producer; and Chanel and Louis Vuitton boutiques.

The area has tree-lined streets and a wealth of formal green spaces. There is the Summer Garden, an ornate garden where balls were held by the nobility, which includes the Mikhailovsky Garden, a landscaped park, and Mars Field, a nine-acre park with formal gardens.

A hot spot for Russian art and culture, the Arts Square is home to the State Russian Museum; the Mikhailovsky Theatre; the Bolshoi Zal, the large concert hall of the Saint Petersburg Philharmonia; and the Statue of Pushkin.

More: Click to view luxury properties for sale in St. Petersburg, Russia

The world-famous State Hermitage Museum on the grand Palace Square is full of treasures and is part of the Winter Palace, the official residence of the Russian monarchs. Faberge Museum, which holds the world’s largest collection of Faberge eggs, and the Church of the Savior on Blood are cultural highlights.

At the Literary Cafe Russian, dishes are served in the surroundings that have hosted the likes of Alexander Pushkin and Fyodor Dostoevsky. Em offers modern haute cuisine in atmospheric surroundings, while the hip five-star hotel chain W St.Petersburg has an outpost here with a restaurant featuring a menu overseen by the renowned French chef Alain Ducasse.

Often referred to as Petri Schule, Saint Peter’s School is a highly-regarded German secondary school and one of the oldest educational institution in the city.

Who Lives There 

Most residents are from St. Petersburg. There are foreign residents, many of which are from Germany, Italy and the U.S., who bought properties about 20 to 25 years ago when prices were low, Mr. Savinykh said.

The area attracts people from a range of different industries. There are, however, a lot of people who are in the culture sectors, such as music, opera, theater and cinema, Mr. Savinykh said. "St. Petersburg is known as the culture capital of Europe."

Fewer rich people live here now, as they tend to buy new flats in the Tauride Palace and Garden area and the  Krestovsky and Kamenny islands now, Ms. Nemchenko said. "If they buy a flat in the Golden Triangle, they usually rent it out."

From Penta: McLaren’s £2 Million Ultimate Hyper-GT Has a Name: Speedtail

It is not however popular with buy-to-let investors because rents are so low at the moment, Mr. Savinykh said.

Notable Residents 

This area has long attracted the artistic set. The National Pushkin Museum on 12 Naberezhnaya Reki Moyki houses the last apartment of Alexander Pushkin. Now known as the Memorial Apartment, the poet lived in the property from 1836 until his death in 1837.

Today, the Russian and Soviet actor and singer Mikhail Boyarsky is said to live in the Golden Triangle, according to Ms. Nemchenko.

Demand for properties at the prime of the market in St. Petersburg is growing. In the first half of this year, 21,800 square meters of elite housing was sold, which is 4% higher than the first half year of 2017, according to Knight Frank.

The Golden Triangle area will be undergoing improvements over the coming year. There are plans for the renovation of facades of the historical buildings and for the creation of paid parking zones, according to Mr. Savinykh.

As there are no new developments in the pipeline, and still a fairly small supply of high-end properties, Ms. Nemchenko reckons there won’t be much change in the market over the next year.

Week in Review

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The Golden Ring of Russia: Best Towns to Visit

What is the golden ring of russia, how to visit the golden ring.

Top 5 Towns Worth Visiting in the Golden Ring

#1 suzdal & vladimir the great (best choice), #2 sergiyev posad, #3 pereslavl-zalesskiy, #4 yaroslavl, #5 rostov velikiy.

Golden Ring Itineraries

The most popular towns of the Golden Ring

Vladimir and suzdal.

Rostov Velikiy

Photo by AirPano.ru

You may also like other r eal r ussia tours:.

Perhaps you already know, but there is a great difference between Moscow, St. Petersburg, and all other towns and cities in Russia. Visiting the countryside is a great opportunity to travel the real Russia and to see the common life of ordinary people. The best choice for a one-day Russian countryside experience is the Vladimir and Suzdal tour.

Vladimir and Suzdal are small towns that are famous worldwide because of their great history and picturesque architecture with numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the 12th century. Aside from golden cupolas of stunning churches and monasteries, you will experience a very rural real Russian outlook with bubbling streams and grassy meadows, chickens and livestock, and interesting and authentic local residents. All are a common sight on the streets, some of which remain unpaved. Be ready for a full-day trip and many unforgettable experiences during your Russian holidays!

•Road-tripping from Moscow to St. Petersburg

•Ecotour along the Volga River with visiting limestone quarries

•Real Russian countryside

•One day in a traditional Russian village

There is a great difference between Moscow, St. Petersburg, and all other Russia... The concept of this tour is to show you the real Russia with numerous small towns, pristine nature, abandoned churches and the life of people.

This tour does not include Golden Ring towns! Instead, you will see Staritsa town and Novgorod the Great, beautiful places to visit in Russia!

We will also visit an elderly couple living in a traditional Russia village. We will help them with their daily work - plowing the land (not by tractors, but by horses), caring for the livestock and cooking food in a traditional Russian oven… And surely we will taste some real fresh milk and eggs while they will be telling us about their common life, their habits, and the households.

The itinerary is perfect for those who are going to St. Petersburg. It takes only 4 hours to get there from Novgorod by a cheap local train.

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The ultimate guide to Russia's Golden Ring

The famous Golden Ring tourist trail was first etched on the map by journalist Yuri Bychkov in 1967. He was the one who conceived the idea of traveling from Moscow to Yaroslavl and Kostroma, then on to Vladimir and Suzdal, and returning to the capital via Rostov Veliky and Pereslavl-Zalessky.

All these points on the map literally sparkle with the golden domes of ancient churches. Bychkov made the journey himself, and wrote about it in a series of essays in the newspaper   Soviet Culture , inventing the term “Golden Ring” in the process, which has since became a trademark.

Let’s follow in his footsteps as we make this fascinating journey for ourselves through the Ring’s most alluring cities, which preserve the oldest and deepest secrets of Russia’s centuries-old history. From princely feuds, the invasion of the Golden Horde, the Polish intervention, and the Time of Troubles to the Soviet campaign against religion. 

Moscow 

V V 70 km (45 miles) V

Sergiev Posad

Recommended time – one day

The main sight in this city in Moscow Region is the Trinity Lavra of St Sergius, an enormous monastery of incredible beauty. It was founded by one of the main Russian saints, Sergius of Radonezh. Some of its churches date back to the 14th century. You definitely need to visit the main Trinity Cathedral, whose walls were painted by legendary medieval icon painter Andrei Rublev.

Read more about what to see in the city  

Pereslavl-Zalessky

Recommended time – half a day

Originally built as the capital of ancient Rus, the city is a tourist attraction in itself (largely a wooden one), featuring more than 20 museums, churches, and monasteries — don’t even try to see all the sights at once. Select your preference: cozy museums full of Russian cookware, ancient Orthodox churches, or the place where Peter the Great trained his first flotilla and a ship he built himself still stands. Or maybe you want to ride a handcar?

Read more about  Pereslavl here

V V 60 km (37 miles) V

Rostov Veliky

Recommended time – a few hours

On the banks of the majestic Lake Nero stands a huge 17th-century kremlin, once the residence of the city’s metropolitan bishop. There is also the large, beautiful Assumption Cathedral, inside which a splendid 18th-century baroque iconostasis is preserved, not to mention ancient chambers full of church antiquities and icons, and a “heavenly” garden (modeled on one in Jerusalem) where you simply must try the local   sbiten   (mead).

Read more about what to see in the city

V V 90 km (55 miles) V

Slightly off the actual Golden Ring, on a bend on the Volga River, is a snug little town famous as the place where the last heir of Ivan the Terrible, 8-year-old Tsarevich Dimitry, was murdered.

You can find out about this episode and other key milestones of Russian history in the local kremlin, where all the town’s main sights are concentrated. Don’t forget to take a stroll along the Volga embankment, and admire the cruise ships and the imposing hydroelectric power station.

Read more about Uglich here

The “capital” of the Golden Ring, and the largest of all its cities. It was founded by Prince Yaroslav the Wise on a picturesque spit at the confluence of the Kotorosl and Volga rivers (it was in fact the first ancient Russian city to be built on the Volga).

The stunning churches and monasteries, antiquities museums, parks, and theaters will keep you busy. But start your day with a visit to the former Transfiguration of the Savior Monastery, or the Yaroslavl Museum Reserve.

Read more here

V V 85 km (52 miles) V

This city is famous for its historical flax production, as well as the place where the first Romanov tsar was crowned. Be sure to go to the Ipatiev Monastery, marvel at the Pozharnaya Kalancha building on Susaninskaya Square, walk through the shopping arcade (one of the largest in Russia), and, last but not least, feast your eyes on the mighty Mother Volga.

For the full Kostroma guide click here

V V 100 km (65 miles) V

Ivanovo and Plyos

From Kostroma it’s a short trip to Plyos, where you should definitely climb the hill from where painter Isaac Levitan created his famous landscapes. You can also admire the Volga once more, and buy a work by a local artist or a souvenir painted in the Palekh style.

And leave a few hours to explore Ivanovo — an industrial city, quite young compared to the other Golden Ringers. Here you will feel the spirit of Soviet constructivism.

Read more what to see in Ivanovo here - and find our guide for Plyos here

V V 80 km (50 miles) V

The most beautiful city on the Golden Ring, and hence its most touristy. Despite that, the spirit of old Russia is ever-present here. Don’t miss the chance to take part in a folk festival or learn first-mouth about Russian cuisine in one of the many restaurants. And be sure to visit the Suzdal Kremlin and the numerous churches and monasteries, as well as the Museum of Wooden Architecture. We advise that you book an overnight stay in advance.

V V 35 km (20 miles) V

On the approach to Vladimir, coming from Suzdal, it’s recommended to stop over in Bogolyubovo, home to one of the most beautiful churches in all Russia — the Church of the Intercession on the Nerl, which stands in the middle of a meadow. Also visit the Svyato-Bogolyubsky Convent.

Vladimir was once the capital of North-Eastern Rus and the rich and powerful Vladimir-Suzdal principality. There are several sights dating back to the 12th century: the small Dmitrievsky Cathedral, famous for its bas-reliefs carved in the form of animals, saints, and fairytale characters, the awe-inspiring Dormition Cathedral, and the Golden Gate — the ceremonial entrance to the city and all that remains of the ancient fortress wall.

Find our guide for Vladimir here

V V 190 km (118 miles) V

(and here is 50 things you must do in Moscow )

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