This 9-day tour of India's Golden Triangle and Varanasi is ideal for first-time visitors who want to explore the country's most iconic monuments and experience its holiest city with a spiritual and religious legacy of nearly 3,000 years.
On this journey, you will see the jewel-encrusted white marble Taj Mahal along with other incredible sights including teeming bazaars, immense forts, and colorful streets. You will also gain a deeper understanding of India's spirituality by observing daily life along the Ganges River, a holy river where many Hindu rituals are performed to cleanse all earthly sins and prepare for the soul's final journey to liberation.
Suggested Route for a Golden Triangle Tour
Tour Highlights
Here are the awesome attractions, the most must-do activities selected by Asia Highlights (AH Hand-Picked), and exclusive cultural experiences offered by Asia Highlights (Only With AH) included in this tour:
Explore the legendary Old Delhi with its Mughal-built monuments and congested bazaars.
Observe the evening aarti ritual when worshipers pray and give offerings to the Ganges at dusk.
Enjoy a heritage walk along the Ganges River to have an insider's look at the local life.
Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Rajput Royalty during your feature stay in Jaipur's heritage hotel.
Discover the vibrant pink city of Jaipur, whose historic architecture is as magnificent as the city's colorful streets.
98.8% Positive Customer reviews among 10,000+
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Great Experience
WOW! I’ve traveled Asia some & I must say Sharon & Asia Highlights made this trip so much more enjoyable and easy More
Stephen Hollis,
Aug 2023
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Alisa has has been great to work with
Alisa with Asia Highlights has has been great to work with. Very friendly and responsive. More
Ana Rausch,
Aug 2023
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Using Sharon right now to book our…
Using Sharon right now to book our upcoming trip to Thailand. She has booked everything that we asked for. Has answered all of my inquiries, which has been many! Looking forward to having a great girls trip in Thailand More
Tracy,
Aug 2023
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Thailand, Singapore, Bali
In Thailand, Tanny and Nori(Suparp), were both incredible! They were both fun, funny, and full of knowledge and made sure we got the full experience. They went the extra mile and always made sure we had cold bottled water and towels to cleanse our hands. In Singapore, Nicole was an absolute gem. She was so kind and knowledgeable and guided us in the right direction to make our day as enjoyable as possible. She helped us choose a top notch local lunch and coffee spot in China Town and taught us so much about the country! In Bali, Emon was an absolute joy. He was very knowledgeable and kind and absolutely made sure we were feeling comfortable and was willing to be flexible with us. He was fun to converse with and made our time traveling between destinations so enjoyable! I cannot recommend Asia Highlights enough! Accommodations, travel arrangements and guided tours were all a breeze. More
Cassi Thunker,
Jul 2023
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Very supportive
Very supportive ! I have received eticket for Sky Lattern Festival very fast More
Chi?n Nguy?n Ng?c,
Jul 2023
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My experience in Chang Mai with Asia Highlights
I greatly enjoyed my experience with Asia Highlights for a trip I booked to Thailand.All of my interests were catered too. My guide in Chang Mai Gemma was excellent.I truly felt the soul of Thailand culture and Buddhism. More
Richard,
Jul 2023
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A pleasure to plan with
Well, this has been a painless and pleasurable process to find such a wonderful company. I had specific dates and places to be and Sharon worked with me diligently to refine the schedule and costs to suit my travel needs and budget. She informed me of a special tour on the dates I am to be in Thailand and I added that to my previous plans. More
Chris Williams,
Jul 2023
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Large multi-generational holiday in Thailand
The holiday was wonderful. Our guides, Mr Monchai (Bangkok), and Ms Tipagorn (Tippy) (Chiang Mai) were exceptional. Travelling in a large multigenerational group with many children requires patience and our guides truly understood that. Mr Monchai and Ms Tippy shared their extensive knowledge of the many wonderful places we visited, and were flexible to take us to additional places along the way based on discussions. While everyday was busy, having them greet us with patience and a smile truly made this a memorable holiday. The hotels we stayed at were equally wonderful and went above and beyond to celebrate not only my parents 50th anniversary but also celebrate 2 milestone birthdays that occurred. We will cherish this holiday for many years to come. We hope to use Asia Highlights again. More
CL,
Jul 2023
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I never used a travel agent in my life
I never used a travel agent in my life, but Sharon for Asia Highlights did a phenomenal job helping planning and coordination a family vacation. The best part of working with Sharon was that she maintained an open line of communication and provided answers to my question well within 12-24 hours. Additionally, Sharon was flexible and customized our vacation to my families needs. Overall great experience. More
Antione Barry,
Jul 2023
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Great company to plan a trip to Southeast Asia!
Sharon Haung has been wonderful to work with! Very patient and accommodating. Responds immediately given time change and is prepared, prompt, and professional. More
Debi Hinerfeld,
Jul 2023
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We took a 15 days trip (10 days Vietnam and 5 days Thailand …
It was an amazing experience the guides and drivers were there awaiting for us at each airoport for a transfer to the hotels also on time for all the tours all the guides were so lovely , very experienced and spoke very good English , one of the days on tour in Thailand I lost my phone in a temple in Bangkok mr chai went out of his way in a middle of thousands of visitors and managed to find an bring it back to me I found that amazing , also while on a trip I contacted Jason li out tour organizer few time via whatup and he replied and helped on the spot I recommend asiahilights 150% The quality of the service hotels the guides the drivers outstanding From start to finish ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT ???? More
SIMO el ghobar,
Jun 2023
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Wonderful Guides and Experience
Our large group arrived in Bangkok with Tanni as our guide. She was wonderful! An absolute joy to spend time with. She is knowledgeable, kind, and extremely funny. I don’t know what we would have done without her! After Bangkok, we traveled to Chang Mai, where Indy was our tour guide. She was a delight! She is kind, knowledgeable, and so patient. Our trip to Thailand was an adventure of a lifetime and these two women helped make it memorable. I would definitely use Asia Highlights for any future travel in Asia. More
Jessica Bennett,
Jun 2023
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Guide - Chai
We travelled from Vietnam to Bangkok and were blessed to have a guide named Chai. He was a superb guide and it is a pity we couldn't bottle him and take him home. He was very knowledgeable and an absolute gentleman. He could not have done enough to facilitate us and imparted so much knowledge about the Temples, Buddism and the History of Thailand in general. Not only did he give us a great overview of the past and current ways of living in Thailand but I also feel I came away a much better person having interacting with him. I will carry many of his teachings with me for the rest of my life and know that having met him was a very special blessing in my life. More
Customer,
Jun 2023
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Our guide Tanni was kind
Our guide Tanni was kind, knowledgeable, funny and beyond accommodating for our group. We felt like we'd made a friend and it enhanced our trip in the most positive way. Everything was coordinated perfectly which is not easy to do in a large traveling group. Excellent experience! More
Marissa Manson,
Jun 2023
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We are only on day 5 of our 15 day trip…
Our first stop so far was in Hanoi where our guide Trong was just so awesome! He shared about his culture and family life which showing us sites through a city tour. He was so funny making lots of jokes and always made sure we were having fun while learning about everything! He checked on us frequently even when we were no longer with him since we then went on a cruise in Halong Bay! Halong Bay and the cruise on Paradise Elegance went way above anything I expected. The scenery was breathtaking, the ship was so beautiful and clean with such fresh, good food! And I can’t sing enough praise for the staff who took care of us- especially Anna and Belle! They went above and beyond to make sure we enjoyed every aspect from eating meals with Anna to every other detail with Belle! I highly recommend Asian Highlights to help plan these extraordinary trips! This already has been a trip of a lifetime and we still have so much more to see all thanks to Cathy!! More
Diane Creitz,
Jun 2023
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Tanni for the win!
14 of my closest friends and family descended upon Bangkok ready to see the town. Asia highlights and Tanni took us on a tour that changed our lives. We experienced so much everyday. Tanni was amazing! She did all the thinking for us, so we all could just be present and enjoy the moment. I can’t recommend this company, and especially Tanni enough. More
Megan McGlynn,
Jun 2023
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This isn't my first trip with Asia…
This isn't my first trip with Asia Highlights. They are great at helping me plan, working my requests into the itinerary, and booking it all. We travel with friends and just got back from a trip to Thailand and Vietnam. Albee did a great job with all the details and we had a wonderful time. We will use them for our next adventure! More
Katie Potesta,
Jun 2023
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Amazing service
Although we have not been our trip yet I wanted to still write a review based on customer service and the ease of booking. Alisa has been extremely prompt and responsive with planning our trip to Thailand. She has had great recommendations and guidance to add to our custom itinerary. Highly recommend using Asia highlights! -Alex More
Alex,
May 2023
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I have never hear of this company…
I have never hear of this company before , and after reading all these reviews ,I decided to give it a try . The professionalism and communicative skill received by one of the agent , Sharon of Asia Highlights , convince me that She was the right travel agent for my trip in Asia . Very quickly she communicated with me and got all the detail of my desire vacation . Sharon made me a great itinerary with great experiences that I am dreaming to experience and I am looking forward to it . Thanks Sharon for been so great and crafting me a dream vacation with great suggestions. More
orge alvarez,
May 2023
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Coco Yang worked tirelessly to…
From the moment I landed in Bangkok, Ms Noi Ying was there to welcome me and get me settled into my hotel. We enjoyed several days together touring Bangkok and Kanchanaburi. In Chiang Mai, Mr Ekachai took my son snd I on an amazing trip to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and to visit a community Lanna home, gardens and a hands-on cooking class preparing an authentic Thai meal. Lisa arranged a last-minute speedboat tour of 5 breathtaking islands in Phuket. From start to finish, the guides exceeded my expectations!! Thank you, Asia Highlight!! Debbie Woods More
Debbie Woods,
May 2023
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Itinerary in Detail
Your preferences design the real journey. We're ready to create a wonderful India tour for you.
Welcome to Delhi, India's capital, where the sounds are lively and the colors vibrant. When you arrive at the India Gandhi International Airport, you will be met by our representative and take a private car to your hotel.
- Commence at the majestic Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which showcases the architectural brilliance of the Mughal era.
- Visit Jama Masjid, which is India's largest and most magnificent mosque. Built from sandstone and marble, this iconic structure stands as a testament to the rich Islamic heritage of Delhi.
- Embark on a walk to the famous Chandni Chowk, located in the north of Old Delhi. Chandni Chowk is renowned for its vibrant street life, where you can find everything from traditional jewelry and textiles to delectable street food.
- Explore Humayun's Tomb, the first great example of a Mughal garden tomb. Marvel at its impressive architecture and admire the beautiful gardens surrounding the mausoleum.
- Visit Qutub Minar, a soaring tower of historical significance dating back to the 12th century. Admire the intricate carvings and delicate detailing of this magnificent structure.
- Take a morning flight from Delhi to Varanasi. This ancient city has served as a beacon for saints, poets, and pilgrims for countless generations.
- In the late afternoon, set out for a captivating boat ride on the majestic Ganges River. Cruising along the sacred waters, you will witness a mesmerizing spectacle as pilgrims gather along the ghats to perform ancient rituals.
- Proceed to the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple to immerse yourself in the highly choreographed Ganga Aarti ceremony. As the ceremony unfolds, you will witness a mesmerizing sight as people begin waving incense in the air, creating fragrant clouds that permeate the ambiance. The rhythmic movements of devotees circling large lamps, also known as diyas, add a touch of mysticism to the atmosphere.
- Take a serene boat ride at sunrise, where you can witness the magic of morning light bathing the temples along the river. During the boat ride, you will witness the riverbanks come to life as locals engage in their daily activities.
- Spend the rest of the morning exploring the sacred site of Sarnath, which holds immense significance for Buddhists. One of the key attractions in Sarnath is the Dhamekh Stupa, an ancient structure built at the very site where the Buddha is believed to have delivered his sermon.
- To delve deeper into the rich history and culture of Buddhism, visit the Archaeological Museum in Sarnath to learn the thriving Buddhist civilization that once existed in the region.
- Explore the oulent 16th-century Amber Fort. Mughal architectural elements can be observed throughout the fort, exemplified by the ornately carved silver doors, elegant alabaster relief work, and stunning glass inlays that adorn the buildings.
- Head to magnificent Ganesh Pol, which serves as the gateway to three stunning palaces nestled around the picturesque Aram Bagh, a Mughal-style garden.
- Visit the central area of the 'Pink City' of Jaipur. Here, you will encounter the enchanting Hawa Mahal, a mesmerizing architectural gem that beckons you with its delicate beauty.
- Continue your exploration of Jaipur with a visit to the nearby Jantar Mantar Observatory. Described as 'the most realistic and logical landscape in stone,' this fascinating observatory showcases India's astronomical prowess.
- Begin by rising early and embarking on a journey to Agra.
- Visit Fatehpur Sikri, a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site that holds great historical significance. Fatehpur Sikri is a city predominantly constructed from mesmerizing red sandstone and was founded in the 16th century by the renowned Mughal Emperor Akbar. This architectural marvel stands as a testament to the grandeur and legacy of the Mughal dynasty.
- Drive to Agra. On arrival, spend the rest of the day relaxing at your hotel.
- Make your way to the magnificent Taj Mahal. The shimmering morning light illuminates the pristine white marble, creating a mesmerizing display that makes the monument appear ethereal and magical. Marvel at the art of pietra dura, a technique employed in the construction of the Taj Mahal.
- Enter the Agra Fort. Within the fort's premises, you will discover the Khas Mahal, an enchanting marble hall that offers splendid views of the iconic Taj Mahal situated across the Yamuna River.
- Take some time to have a walk in the village near Mehtab Bagh. As you stroll through the village streets, greet the local villagers with a warm hello. As the day draws to a close, head to Mehtab Bagh to witness a breathtaking sunset view of the Taj Mahal.
- Before concluding your excursion in Agra and heading back to Delhi, you will have the opportunity to visit the exquisite Itmad-ud-Daula, often referred to as the "baby Taj Mahal." This architectural gem is sure to leave you in awe as you marvel at its intricate inlaid patterns and fine craftsmanship.
A private car will take you to the Indira Gandhi International Airport to catch your flight home.
Ideas for Making This Trip Uniquely Yours
Special experiences can be added to brighten a honeymoon trip, a family vacation, a birthday, or satisfy personal interests.
A Romantic Dinner in Amber Fort
For couples |
Heena Painting on Hands and Feet
For culture fans |
Moonlights Tour of Taj Mahal
For couples |
Hand-Picked Hotels
We select hotels with style and local features. Let us know your preferences and we'll find your ideal hotel.
Heritage hotel in old Delhi
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Heritage hotel in Jaipur
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Hotel with a view of Taj Mahal
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Hotel with the river view
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Our Service Includes:
- Private transfers and English-speaking tour guide
- All guided sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary
- 4-star accommodations for 8 nights
- Flights and private transfers between cities mentioned in the itinerary
- Meals mentioned in the itinerary
- Governmental taxes
Tour code: ah-in-72
Start planning your tailor-made tour now. Your 1:1 travel consultant will reply within 1 working day.
Why Travel with Asia Highlights (98.8% positive customer reviews among 10,000+)
- Unique experiences tailored to your interests: Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.
- Hassle-free travel and peace of mind: Every aspect of your trip will be carefully planned and organized by your 1:1 travel consultant.
- Experienced and knowledgeable guides: Your guides will be local and love to work for travelers' smiles.
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At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.