Embarking on the Golden Triangle self drive tour can prove to be a wonderful way to explore two of the most historically rich cities of India: Jaipur and Agra. This trip will serve two purposes: it will let you drive on well-kept and good-quality highways, and it will also take you to some marvellous tourist attractions. The venture begins in Delhi from where you travel to Jaipur, the Pink City. In Jaipur, you visit Amber Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar and Jaigarh Fort. An elephant ride to Amber Fort adds yet another dimension to your sojourn in the capital city of Rajasthan. Your experience in the Pink City culminates with an exploration of the Chokhi Dhani heritage resort, which showcases Rajasthani culture in all its glory.

From Jaipur, the Golden Triangle self drive trip takes you to Agra – one of the most-visited travel destinations in the world. The Taj Mahal and Agra Fort are on the list of the attractions to be visited in the city. If you are an ardent driver, then you will love speeding on the state-of-the-art Yamuna Expressway between Agra and Delhi. Controlled access, six lanes, good-quality tarmac and numerous service lanes along the highway ensure a smooth and hassle-free driving experience.  

Itinerary:

Day 01: Delhi to Jaipur (282 km | approx. 5.5 hours)

In the morning, start driving from Delhi and reach Jaipur by noon. Thereafter, check-in at the hotel, enjoy lunch and later let a guide take you on a trip to some popular tourist attractions of the city. The first destination of this excursion is City Palace. Housing Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal within its premises, City Palace was the centre of power of the Rajput rulers of the area. It reflects an amazing mix of Mughal, European and Rajput architectural styles.

Translating into the palace of winds, Hawa Mahal, one of the most distinctive structures in Rajasthan, is your next destination. The fascinating building was built in the year 1799 to allow the women of the royal house to view the happenings in the area without being seen.

After exploring this unique building, move to Jantar Mantar, one of the largest pre-modern observatories in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site also contains the largest stone sundial in the world. After this, travel to the local markets for some souvenir shopping.

Later in the evening, enjoy a cultural programme, and witness performances by folk dancers, musicians and singers.

Thereafter, return to the hotel for an overnight stay. 

Day 02: Sightseeing in Jaipur

This day of the golden triangle self drive tour is scheduled for another round of sightseeing in and around the Pink City. Early morning, enjoy an elephant ride to Amber Fort. The fortress was built in the late 16^th century with sandstones and white marble. Maota Lake is just below the fortress and is itself a popular place of interest. After lunch, pay a visit to Jaigarh Fort, built to protect Amber Fort and the palace, which the latter complex houses. After sightseeing here, return to the hotel and rest.

In the evening, head to Chokhi Dhani and familiarise with the culture of Rajasthan. Later, return to the hotel and enjoy a rejuvenating sleep. 

Day 03: Jaipur to Agra (240 km | 4 hours)  

In the morning, head towards Agra to reach the city by noon. On arriving in Agra, transfer to the hotel and check-in. After lunch, set out on a tour of some local markets with a guide. After buying the peculiar items of the region, come back to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay. 

Day 04: Sightseeing in Agra

The Golden Triangle self drive trip now takes you on a guided sightseeing venture to the mesmerising Taj Mahal. Sitting majestically on the banks of the Yamuna River, this monument is one of the most well-known tourist attractions in India. Its architectural mastery and the intricate calligraphy on its inner walls have made it one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The excursion also includes a visit to Agra Fort and some other historical monuments in the area. Also known as the Red Fort of Agra, the 16^th-century fortress was built with red sandstone, and it displays a wonderful combination of Mughal and Hindu architectural styles. After sightseeing, return to the hotel for dinner, and later stay here overnight.

Day 05: Agra to Delhi (218 km | approx. 3 hours)

On the last day of this incredible trip, drive from Agra to Delhi. This travelling experience will be like a dream-come-true as you will travel on Yamuna Expressway. The 165-km long, six-lane highway is well-paved, and since the speed limit here is high, driving enthusiasts love to travel on it. On reaching Delhi, begin your onward journey.