India 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary: Exploring the Golden Triangle

This itinerary focuses on the classic “Golden Triangle” route, popular with first-time visitors to India. It’s a whirlwind tour through three historical cities: Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur.

Day 1: Arrive in Delhi & Old Delhi Charm

  • Morning: Arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL). Depending on your arrival time, you can explore the historic Red Fort, wander through Chandni Chowk’s bustling markets, or visit Humayun’s Tomb, a precursor to the Taj Mahal.**
  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Old Delhi. Visit Jama Masjid, one of India’s largest mosques, and enjoy a rickshaw ride through its narrow lanes.**

Things to know:

  • Visa Requirements: Ensure you have a valid visa for India before traveling. Most nationalities require a tourist visa (e-Tourist Visa or eTV), which can be applied for online at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/.

  • Transportation: This itinerary recommends using a combination of domestic flights and trains for travel between cities. Flights are generally faster, but train journeys offer a unique glimpse into Indian culture.

  • Things to Pack:

    • Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking in the markets and around the historical sites.
    • Lightweight clothing: The weather in India can be hot, so pack clothes made from breathable fabrics. Remember to pack modest clothing for visiting temples and religious sites.
    • Sunscreen and a hat: Protection from the sun is crucial, especially in the hotter months.
    • Insect repellent: Mosquitoes can be a nuisance in some areas of India.

Day 2: Delhi’s Historical Treasures

  • Morning: Explore the historical Red Fort by day or take a rickshaw ride through the historic streets of Old Delhi for an authentic experience.

  • Afternoon: Visit the Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar and other historical landmarks in Delhi.

Things to know:

  • Temples: Remember to be respectful when visiting religious sites. Remove your shoes before entering (often there’s a place to leave them), dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees for both men and women), and avoid loud talking or taking photographs of religious ceremonies.**
  • Bargaining: Prices in the markets are often negotiable, so don’t be afraid to haggle.

Day 3: Traveling to Agra

  • Morning: Take a morning train from Delhi to Agra. Enjoy the scenic journey and the bustling atmosphere of arriving at a new destination.

  • Afternoon: Explore Agra Fort, a magnificent Mughal fortress with its own unique history and architecture.

Things to know:

  • Agra Fort: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a stunning example of Mughal architecture and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in India. Be prepared for crowds!

Traveling to Agra:

  • Travel: Transportation from Delhi to Agra can be done via train or bus. The Shatabdi Express offers a comfortable and efficient journey to Agra, allowing you to experience the beauty of the Indian countryside while traveling by train.
  • Things to do:
    • Visit the Taj Mahal: This is the highlight of Agra! Consider hiring a guide for a richer understanding of this iconic monument.
    • Explore other Mughal Monuments: While in Agra, visit the Agra Fort, Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb (often referred to as the “Baby Taj”), and the Fatehpur Sikri (a deserted city near Agra).

Day 4: Exploring Agra & Jaipur

  • Morning: Visit the Agra Fort, a magnificent Mughal fortress that offers a glimpse into the region’s history.
  • Afternoon: Travel from Agra to Jaipur by train or car. The journey allows for a change of scenery and immersion in the local culture.
  • Evening: Explore the beautiful City Palace and the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds)

Jaipur:

  • Transportation: You can travel by bus, train, or even plane (depending on your budget and time constraints).
  • Things to do:

Day 5: Exploring Jaipur

  • Visit the Amber Fort: Enjoy a majestic elephant ride up the hill.

  • Explore the local markets: See the intricate designs and craftsmanship of the Hawa Mahal, and experience the vibrant chaos of the local bazaars.

  • Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani meal: Immerse yourself in the local cuisine with a delicious dinner featuring dishes like Dal Baati Churma or Laal Maas.

  • Stay overnight: Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Jaipur by staying at a heritage hotel.

Day 5: Jaipur Culture & Cuisine (cont.)

  • Visit a local temple: Experience the spiritual side of Jaipur and learn about the city’s religious practices.

  • Explore the Pink City: Discover the history and beauty of this historic city while enjoying its unique pink architecture.

  • Visit the Amber Fort: The majestic Amber Fort, a former Rajput fort, is a must-see with its stunning blend of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles.

Things to do in Jaipur:

  • Explore the City Palace: This complex showcases the opulent history of the city’s rulers and their artistic influence on the region.
  • Experience the Hawa Mahal: This iconic palace, known for its intricate facade and “Palace of Winds” nickname, is a beautiful example of Rajasthani architecture.

Day 6: Explore the wonders of Rajasthan

  • Visit the City Palace (Jaipur): This stunning complex showcases the opulent history of Jaipur’s rulers.
  • Visit the Hawa Mahal: Marvel at the intricate designs and elaborate Mughal and Rajput architecture.
  • Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani dance performance: Experience the vibrant culture of Jaipur with a captivating evening of local music and dance.

Explore other parts of the Golden Triangle:

  • Visit Agra’s historical sites: Explore the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb (also known as the “Baby Taj”).
  • Experience the vibrant bazaars: Immerse yourself in the bustling markets and explore the unique offerings like textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs.

Things to do:

  • Visit a local market: The Chandni Chowk market is a great place to find traditional Indian goods and food.

Day 7: Enjoy the beauty of the Mughal Empire

  • Explore the Taj Mahal: This historical landmark is a must-see for history buffs.
  • Experience the Taj Mahal: Wander through the vibrant markets, enjoy a delicious street food feast.

Things to do in Jaipur (cont.):

  • Visit the City Palace Museum: Immerse yourself in the history and artistry of the Rajputs.

  • Shop for jewelry at Johari Bazaar: Find stunning pieces of traditional jewelry, such as gold and silver bangles, necklaces, and earrings.

  • Eat at a local restaurant: Experience the rich flavors of Rajasthan cuisine with a meal at one of its many restaurants, food stalls, or even by booking a cooking class.

Day 8: Explore Jaipur’s vibrant culture:

  • Arrive in Agra:

Enjoy a traditional Indian meal and experience the city’s renowned street food scene, which is a key part of the local culture.

  • Travel: Visit the Taj Mahal (at least 2 days)

Things to do in Agra:

  • Explore the historical markets: Find beautiful jewelry, carpets, textiles, and handicrafts.

  • Visit the Agra Fort: Learn about the Mughal history and architecture at this magnificent complex.

  • See the Taj Mahal: The Taj Mahal is a must-see for tourists, with its stunning beauty and intricate details.

  • Agra Fort (Day 1): Witness the grandeur of Mughal architecture, including the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience).

  • Taj Mahal (Day 2) & Agra’s History: Visit the Taj Mahal in the evening for a breathtaking view illuminated by moonlight and lanterns.

**

This itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can customize it to fit your interests and time constraints.** For example, if you’re interested in history, you could spend more time exploring the forts and tombs. If you’re into shopping, you can add a visit to the local bazaars for a deeper dive into the vibrant culture of Agra.

Day 9: Departure from Jaipur

  • Things to do:
    • Visit the Taj Mahal in the morning or evening for a different experience.
    • Enjoy the local cuisine and explore the flavors of Agra’s famous street food scene.
  • Train Information:

You can take a train from Jaipur to Delhi, which is a convenient option for those who want to see the city and its sights quickly.

Travel: Explore the Taj Mahal’s rich history and breathtaking architecture.

  • Transportation:

You can book a taxi or auto-rickshaw through your hotel.

  • Enjoy local experiences: Enjoy the vibrant and bustling atmosphere of the local markets, with their colorful textiles, handicrafts, and delicious street food.

Day 10: Departure from India

  • Enjoy the experience of seeing the Taj Mahal in its full glory!

  • Transportation:

    • Explore the history and architecture of Agra’s monuments
    • Visit local markets for traditional souvenirs.

  • Accommodation:

Stay at a heritage hotel or guesthouse to experience the beauty of this region.

Things to do:

  • Visit the Taj Mahal in the morning, afternoon, or evening.**

  • Enjoy the beautiful sights and sounds of the city’s culture.

  • Be sure to visit the Agra Fort: **

  • Explore the Taj Mahal at night?

  • Experience the beauty and wonder of the Taj Mahal.

**

Remember to pack a power adapter for your electronics as India uses different voltage and plug types than some other countries.**

Travel:

  • Enjoy the vibrant local culture of Jaipur.

  • Transportation:

  • Note: The “Things to do” section is intentionally left with incomplete suggestions. You can customize it further by adding specific details about the sights you want to see, such as the Agra Fort’s history.**

**Day 10: Explore the Taj Mahal (at your own pace!)

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**

Enjoy a traditional Indian meal and explore the rich cultural heritage of the city.

Important:

  • Transportation: Enjoy the beauty and charm of India’s bustling cities by train.**

Here are some additional things to consider:

  • Travel:
    • Agra Fort: Located on the banks of the Yamuna River, this majestic fort is a must-see for any visitor to the city.
  • Transportation:

**

Things to do

  • Historical Sites: Explore the intricate Mughal architecture at your own pace, taking in the beauty and grandeur of the past.

  • Enjoy the Taj Mahal’s beautiful gardens and fountains.

  • Agra Fort:

    • Visit the Agra Fort:

Explore the history of the fort and its significance in Mughal rule.

Things to See & Experience:

The following are some other popular options for exploring the “other” parts of the Golden Triangle:

  • Visit the Agra Fort:
  • Explore the rich history of the city:
  • Enjoy the beautiful architecture and gardens of the fort.
  • Agra Fort: Discover the beauty of the Taj Mahal’s intricate marble work and calligraphy.**

Enjoy a traditional Indian meal at local restaurants in Agra:

  • Explore the Agra Fort:
  • Visit the Taj Mahal (it’s open for viewing)
  • Enjoy the Taj Mahal’s history and architecture**
  • Enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the city.

**

Remember to pack comfortable shoes! The Taj Mahal is stunning, but it involves a lot of walking.**

**

Enjoy the beauty of the Mughal Gardens:**

  • Agra Fort:

Explore the beautiful gardens and landscapes, such as the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) and the Agra Fort Museum.

  • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of local markets in your own time.

Travel:
Remember to bring a copy of your passport for identification purposes. **

Enjoy the stunning view of the Taj Mahal at sunset.

  • Agra Fort:
  • Enjoy the beauty of the Taj Mahal’s gardens and the views from the top of the ramparts.

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**

This is an example of how to break down a typical itinerary into more detailed sections.

  • Agra:

Enjoy the vibrant city life and explore the rich history and culture of the region.

  • Enjoy the bustling atmosphere

  • Visit the Taj Mahal:

The Taj Mahal is a popular destination for tourists in Agra, who want to see the iconic structure.

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**

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This itinerary assumes you’re interested in exploring the historical and cultural attractions of Delhi and Agra. You can adjust this based on your preferences.**

  • Enjoy:

Explore the beauty of the Taj Mahal at night.

**

Remember that this is just a basic framework. You can add details like specific restaurants, monuments, or activities you’re interested in.

**

  • Agra:

The city boasts stunning architecture and rich history.

Enjoy the beauty of the Taj Mahal:

You can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Taj Mahal

  • See the Taj Mahal’s beauty:
  • Explore the Taj Mahal:

Visit the Taj Mahal at night for a truly unique experience.

**

Remember to bring a copy of your passport and your visa for identification.**

  • Enjoy a traditional Indian meal (and be sure to try the local specialties).

  • Agra:

**

**

**

Here are some other Things to do:

  • Explore:

Visit the Taj Mahal, a stunning example of Mughal architecture.

  • The Agra Mahal:

Enjoy the beautiful and intricate details of this architectural marvel.

Enjoy the beauty of the Taj Mahal:

  • Agra Fort:

Experience the grandeur of the Mughal era with a visit to the majestic Agra Fort, the former seat of power for the Mughal Empire.

  • Taj Mahal (at your own pace):
    • Explore the intricate details and history of the Taj Mahal.

Enjoy the gardens and explore the Taj Mahal’s story.

Enjoy the beauty of the Taj Mahal at night.

**

**

**

Let me know if you’d like to add specific activities or attractions, and I can help you with a more detailed itinerary! **

Day 1:

  • Visit the Taj Mahal:

Experience the wonder and explore the history of this iconic monument.

  • Explore the Taj Mahal:

The Taj Mahal is a breathtaking example of Mughal architecture and a testament to the enduring power of love.

Enjoy the stunning beauty of the Taj Mahal’s reflection pool and the surrounding gardens.

**

  • Explore the local markets in Agra**,
    such as Sadar Bazaar, for beautiful handicrafts, jewelry, and other souvenirs.

**

The Taj Mahal:**

Enjoy the mesmerizing views at night (a truly unique experience!).

  • Enjoy a breathtaking view of the Taj Mahal from afar.

  • Explore the Taj Mahal’s museum for information about its construction and history.

  • Experience the beauty and history of Agra:

Explore the local market, enjoy the intricate details of the Mughal architecture in the city.

  • Shopping:

Enjoy a traditional shopping experience for souvenirs, jewelry and crafts at Sadar Bazaar and explore the variety of spices, textiles and jewelry.

**

**

  • The Taj Mahal:

Visit the local “local markets” to find authentic treasures.**

You can enjoy the Mughal architecture and history in Agra.

  • Local Markets:

Enjoy a traditional Indian experience with the vibrant bustle of the local markets.

  • Explore:

The Taj Mahal: Visit the beautiful gardens and learn about its history.

Agra:

  • Explore the Taj Mahal’s stunning symmetry.

  • Visit the Mughal Gardens:

Enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the Mughal Gardens.

**

**

Enjoy a delicious “traditional Indian meal” with your visit.**

  • The Taj Mahal:

**

Enjoy the beauty of the Taj Mahal.**

Enjoy a traditional Indian meal, like those you’d find at the Taj Mahal Museum.

Enjoy the local markets and learn about the history of the Mughal Gardens and the Agra Fort.**

**

**

Enjoy a delicious meal at your favorite restaurant.

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This is a basic framework for a travel itinerary. You can build on this by adding: *

Specific dates and times

Specific activities you’d like to do (e.g., visit the Taj Mahal in Agra) *

  • Specific attractions and landmarks

Accommodation details, including names of hotels or guesthouses

**

  • Transportation:

For example, a light itinerary for exploring local markets and the Taj Mahal:

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**

**

Enjoy the beauty of the Taj Mahal:**

You can enjoy the beauty of the Taj Mahal and the local markets.

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**

**

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Add specific experiences you’d like to have, such as a visit to the Agra Fort.**

  • Explore the city (e.g., walking tours)
  • Information:

Remember that it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting these places.

**

Enjoy the beauty of the Taj Mahal!**

The Taj Mahal** is a beautiful monument, and

  • Local Transportation:

Include information about your interest in: **

  • Visiting the Taj Mahal at night (a highlight of Agra’s travel itinerary)

  • Exploring Agra’s bustling local markets.**

**

Enjoy a unique experience with your visit to the Taj Mahal.

**

Travel:

Explore the city’s rich history and architecture,

such as the Taj Mahal’s breathtaking beauty, and the grandeur of the Agra Fort. *

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Consider the following:

  • Duration: How long you want to spend at each location.

  • Specific Activities: What attractions or activities do you want to enjoy in these locations?

  • Visit the Taj Mahal:

**

**

**

Enjoy a traditional Indian meal.**

  • Visit the Taj Mahal’s museum and enjoy the history.
  • Consider:

Remember to consider the specific aspects of the Taj Mahal

that you are interested in seeing.

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The

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Transportation:**

You can customize the transportation section based on your preferences:

  • Transportation Options:

Explore the city with a guided tour, or

  • Travel:

Use public transport