11 Day Golden Triangle with Leh

Your exploration of India will commence at Old Delhi, the former citadel of the Mughal Empire during the 17th and 19th centuries. You will visit the magnificent Red Fort, constructed in 1648 and serving as the seat of the Mughal Empire. The fort’s imposing 1.24-mile-long red sandstone walls will leave you in awe. Next, you will embark on a thrilling cycle rickshaw ride through the bustling alleys of Chandni Chowk. This experience will immerse you in the vibrant culture, past sacred temples, and historic dwellings adorned with captivating architecture.

Your itinerary will also include a visit to the Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque built by Shah Jahan in 1658. This architectural marvel is both a testament to Islamic artistry and a sacred place of worship. Concluding your visit, you will pay your respects at Raj Ghat, the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi. A humble black marble monument amidst lush greenery marks the solemn spot where Gandhi was laid to rest on the banks of the Yamuna River.

Afternoon: Following the Old Delhi tour, you will be transported to New Delhi, a regal capital constructed by the British. The distinction between Old and New Delhi lies in the division between the two capitals: Mughal and British. You will visit the Qutab Minar, a 234-foot sandstone Victory Tower erected in 1193. The tour also includes a drive past the imposing India Gate, a 138-foot stone arch of triumph commemorating 90,000 Indian Army soldiers who sacrificed their lives in various conflicts worldwide. It houses an eternal flame in honor of the Unknown Soldier. Humayun’s Tomb, a beautiful Mughal red sandstone structure, will also be visited. Subsequently, you will traverse Lutyen’s New Delhi, which encompasses the Diplomatic enclave, numerous spectacular Victorian-era government buildings, Bangla Sahib Gurudwara (a magnificent temple dedicated to Sikhs), and the impressive and ornate Hindu Birla Temple. Your tour of New Delhi will culminate at Connaught Place, the primary shopping, business, and tourist hub of the city.

After breakfast, proceed to check out of your hotel and be driven to Agra (approximately four hours) via North India’s newest highway.

Upon arrival in Agra, check into your hotel.

Afternoon: You will visit the massive red sandstone Agra Fort which was built by the famous Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1565 AD, primarily as a military structure. During Shah Jahan’s reign it was converted into a palace. It finally became a prison for Shah Jahan after his son came to power in 1658. The fort has numerous courtyards, private chambers and a marble mosque. On the opposite side of the Yamuna River is the exquisite Itmad-ud daulah built in 1628 by Mughal Emperor’s queen, Nur Jahan in memory of her father. The tomb is the first monument that was constructed entirely of marble inlaid in Pietra Dura.

Late afternoon: A sunset visit to the magnificent white marble mausoleum, one of the world’s seven wonders, the Taj Mahal, is a must-do experience for tourists worldwide. This exquisite monument, dedicated to the enduring love of Shah Jahan and his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, attracts visitors from distant corners of the globe year-round. Constructed between 1653 and 1675 AD, the Taj Mahal required the labor of 22,000 skilled craftsmen over a period of 22 years. The white marble is intricately inlaid with semi-precious stones in captivating patterns, a technique known as pietra dura. The symmetrical design of the Taj is further enhanced by minarets at each corner. The basement of the Taj houses the cenotaphs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, serving as a testament to their enduring legacy.

Check out of your hotel by noon and drive to Jaipur. En route, make a stop to visit the Chand Baori stepwell at Abhaneri. The Chand Baori is one of the oldest, deepest, and largest baoris (stepwells) in Rajasthan. The oldest parts of the structure date back to the 8th century. This colossal step well has a depth of 20 meters and 13 levels. Despite its immense size, the well retains delicate and intricate carvings that provide a visual delight. Upon arrival in Jaipur, check into your hotel. Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan, is also affectionately known as the ‘Pink City.’

After breakfast, drive seven miles north of Jaipur to visit the Amber Fort and Palace. This was the ancient capital of Jaipur state. Mount your caparisoned elephant to ascend to the main gate of the splendid Amber Fort situated on a hillock overlooking a lake. The Fort, completed in the early 18th century, offers a fascinating insight into the lifestyle of the Rajput rulers, a clan renowned for its military heroism. In stark contrast to the rugged exteriors of the soaring fort is the opulent ambiance of the interiors, particularly the Sheesh Mahal or the Hall of Mirrors, a testament to the intricate and delicate use of mirrors.

Afternoon: Continue your tour of Jaipur city; visit the City Palace Complex, a harmonious fusion of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture featuring courtyards, gardens, and buildings. The royal family of Jaipur still resides in a portion of the Palace. You will then visit the Jantar Mantar, the astronomical observatory. Enjoy your visit to the Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds. Located in the heart of the bustling market place of the old city, the Hawa Mahal is a pink sandstone five-story building with a captivating façade adorned with numerous intricately designed and embellished windows. Originally constructed to enable the royal ladies to observe the bustling city without being observed, the Hawa Mahal stands as a testament to Jaipur’s rich cultural heritage.

Check out from hotel after breakfast and enjoy the scenic drive to Delhi through the fields, small towns and villages of Rajasthan. Admire the vibrant turbans and attire of men and women of Rajasthan.
Arrive at Delhi and check in to your hotel next to the Delhi airport. Bid farewell to your Tour Director here.
During your check-in please remind the staff of your scheduled transfer to the airport for next morning – our staff will book this but it is advisable to remind them again.

Check-out from your hotel in the early morning and you are driven by a hotel chauffeur to the airport in time to board your flight to Leh. On arrival our representative will chauffeur you to your hotel, where you are assisted with your check-in, if an early check-in is available. If it isn’t, you can drop your bags off and use the facilities to freshen up. It is recommended that you take a rest for the day to acclimatize yourself to the high altitude of Leh.

Proceed for a day trip to Shey, Thiksey and Hemis Gompa, three of the most important religious monuments. You will first be driven to nearby Thiksey monastery. The monastery is located at an altitude of 3600 Meters and is 19 kms from Leh enroute to Hemis Gompa. The Thiksey monastery gives a panoramic view of Indus Valley from its vantage point on top of a hill. There are several temples and wall paintings of the Buddha.
Here after visit Shey Monastery, the monastery is noted for its 7.7-m giant copper and gilded gold statue of a seated Shakyamuni Buddha, the second largest such statue of its kind in Ladakh.
Continue your tour to Hemis Gompa which is 45 KMs from Leh. This Gompa is the biggest and wealthiest monastery of Ladakh. The monasteries largest Thangka, is ritually exhibited once after every 12 years.
Return to your hotel in Leh after this exploration.

Proceed for your tour to other main monasteries near Leh. Your first stop is the Likir Monastery which is 52 KM in the west of Leh. The monastery is located in Likir village and has been in existence since 11th century. Likir was the first royal monastery to be established in Ladakh under direct Tibetan influence, the main attractions of the monastery are its architecture, murals, thangkas, statue of Buddha and stupas.
After your exploration of this royal monastery continue your tour to view the nearby Alchi Monastery.

The Alchi Monastery consists of six temples, which contain a chorten, seated Buddha’s and exquisite paintings. Over 10 centuries old, painted walls depict the events of the Buddha’s life, including lamas and musicians. These murals, dating from the 11th and 12th centuries, pre-date the Tibetan style of painting that is present in all the other Gompas.

Proceed for a guided visit of Khardung La pass where the elevation is being measured at about 5359 Meters. The rest of the day you are at leisure with your guide, vehicle and chauffeur who are available to you until 5 pm.

You are assisted with your check-out from your hotel and then driven to the airport in time to board your morning flight to Delhi. You are greeted at the Delhi airport by your travel facilitator and chauffeur. Here in these last moments of your journey you can enjoy shopping or you can watch sights if you are so inclined.
We understand that most international flights depart in the evening and if you are boarding from Delhi then your personal vehicle and chauffeur will be available to escort you to board your flight comfortably. If your flight departs in the morning, you may want us to arrange accommodation. It will be our pleasure.

Our services end at Delhi airport.