Incredible India Golden Triangle of East Himalaya

  • Duration14 Days
  • DestinationIndia
  • Difficulty LevelEasy
  • Max Altitude2,042m

About Trip

There is truly no place on Earth like India. Even a single day in any of India’s major cities will live an imprint on your memory for the rest of your life. It is impossible to see all of India’s most famous destinations in one visit, but we have designed a perfect package to see the best of the best in just two weeks. On our Incredible India Golden Triangle of East Himalaya Tour, we spent time in India’s colourful Golden Triangle (Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra) before visiting the breathtaking hill stations of Darjeeling and Gangtok.

Delhi allows you to experience ancient, medieval, and modern India all in the same moment. Crowded bazaars andmedieval palaces starkly contrast with high-rise buildings and fancy nightclubs. During your tour, experience taste of the old and the new. Highlights during the Delhi portion of the Incredible India Golden Triangle of East Himalaya include visiting India Gate, Qutab Minar, President House, Humayun Tomb, Lotus Temple, and the timeless market of Old Delhi.

Next, we visit Jaipur, ‘the Pink City’ and capital of Rajasthan. On anyone’s visit to India, if they visit Delhi then Jaipur is a must! While navigating the chaos of this vibrant city, we visit several architectural wonders, including the massive and complex Amer Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mahal, and more. Jaipur has a short, but illustrious history. Find yourself in awe at the opulent palaces and more in Jaipur!

The last stop on the Golden Triangle of East Himalaya Tour, and the most memorable for many, is Agra. Seeing the Taj Mahal in photos is one thing, but seeing it in real life will make your jaw drop. The mausoleum was constructed by Shah Jahan, the fifth Mughal emperor, in the 17th century. It took over 20,000 workers 22 years to build and was built in memory of the Shah’s wife. It is said to be the embodiment of true love. Though absolutely incredible, the Taj Mahal isn’t the only destination in Agra. We also make a visit to the stunning Agra Fort, before heading back to Delhi and catching a flight to Bogdogra Airport for the next leg of our tour.

Northeast India is completely different from the rest of India. It moves at a much slower pace, which relaxes you and puts you at ease. Spend a day seeing Darjeeling’s culturalsites. Sip some Darjeeling tea, ‘the champagne of tea,’ which gives you a little buzz for the rest of the day. Check out the elegant monasteries, tasty foods, and lively shopping centers while discovering Darjeeling’s rich heritage. On our way to Gangtok, we stay in Pelling. This small Sikkimese town makes you feel right at home.

After weaving through valleys and hills, find yourself in Gangtok, the state’s capital and cultural center. Deep in the hills sits the sacred Tsomgo Lake (also known as Changu Lake). The turquoise glacial lake is nestled at the lap of the great Himalayas. The same day, check out Baba Mandir – a pilgrimage destination that is known to grant wishes of those who pay homage. Gangtok is full ofTibetan Buddhist grandeur. There are several awesome monasteries to visit, each with its own history and architecture - Rumtek Monastery being the largest and most renowned. Constructed almost 300 years ago, thismonastery has lush courtyards and bright murals, and is surrounded by a lively forest. In the evening, walk around the streets of Gangtok and enjoy the peaceful vibes.

Before the Incredible India Golden Triangle of East Himalaya Tour concludes, there is one more stop to absorb the tranquility of the Himalayas. Kalimpong, like Pelling, is a small mountain town that is rich in beautiful views, cultural fascinations, and Buddhist monuments.

Book your Incredible India Golden Triangle of East Himalaya Tour today and discover the beauty of India! Ashmita Trek and Tours arranges the tour with full management, including transportation, meals, etc. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have questions!

Best Time to Visit the Golden Triangle of East Himalaya

The beauty of our Golden Triangle of East Himalaya Tour is that you can take the tour all year-round! All seasons bring their benefits and setbacks. Most people, however, prefer October to March. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in each season:

Summer (April – June) is the hottest season in India, particularly in the Golden Triangle. Temperatures range from 25-45 degrees Celsius. It is quite dry during this time as well. Despite the heat, there are fewer tourists during this time and there are several festivals celebrated.

Monsoon (July – September) brings torrential downpours and imbues a new feeling of life on the Golden Triangle. Temperatures range from 24-36 degrees Celsius. It rains most days, but typically in short bursts. Expect flooding during this time, but again, there are less tourists during the monsoon season.

Peak Season (October – March) is arguably the best time to take the Golden Triangle Tour. Temperatures range from 18-32 degrees Celsius. October marks the start of festival season, including the Diwali celebration. Also, the weather cools off and the temperature is actually quite enjoyable. Nights can get cold, but you will be well-prepared for that. December marks the end of the year, why not end it with a bang? Or in January, you can get make a positive, memorable start to your new year. March is when Holi, the festival of colors takes place – something everyone should experience once in their life! Also, these months make for the best mountain views in Northeast India. The only downside to peak season is that it brings more tourists.

Anytime is suitable for the Incredible India Golden Triangle of East Himalaya Tour – 14 Days, so choose which time is best for you!

What Kind of Experience to Expect During the Golden Triangle of the East Tour

The Golden Triangle is one of India’s most taken tours – and for the right reasons. When it comes to experiencing India’s culture, history, architecture, and famous destinations, the Golden Triangle Tour is unparalleled. Expect to be blown away everyday on the tour by the sheer majesty of each palace, view, monument, etc. Delhi boasts both Mughal and colonial era wonders, Agra represents the legacy of the Mughals with the noble Taj Mahal, and Jaipur displays the colours and excitement of Rajasthan.

There is never a dull moment on the Incredible India Golden Triangle of East Himalaya Tour. Your experience will be enriching as you learn about the history and culture of India. Learn about the what inspired the architecture of each palace, how it got there, and its importance in modern India.  Expect to gain knowledge about the Mughals, Rajputs, and the British colonial influence. One thing you can certainly expect, the Golden Triangle of India Tour will be an experience that you cherish for the rest of your life. You will be telling your family and friends about the things you saw and places you visited on this trip for years to come.

Why Choose Ashmita for the Golden Triangle of the East Tour

Ashmita Treks and Tours believes in giving you the best tour experience possible. We love India and are passionate about showing visitors the authentic side of India. Our passion shows through.  Since 2007, our knowledgeable staff and guides have strived to fulfill and exceed all of our clients’ expectations. We have been recommended by Lonely Planet as well as hundreds of past clients.

In addition to our experience around Delhi, Jaipur and Agra, we are the top trekking and travel company in Darjeeling and Sikkim. After experiencing the excitement of the Golden Triangle, you get to spend time in the places that we know best.

Highlights

  • Take the famous Golden Triangle Tour and visit India’s most famous destinations
  • See the magnificent Taj Mahal in person
  • Stand under the famous Delhi Gate
  • Experience ‘the Pink City’ while you roam around Jaipur
  • Check out the peaceful monasteries of Northeast India
  • Taste Darjeeling tea – the champagne of tea
  • Get stunning mountain views from Gangtok and Darjeeling
  • Relax in the hillside towns of Pelling and Kalimpong

Itinerary

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Our wonderful assistant will welcome you at Delhi Airport to begin the tour. We give you the lowdown on the itinerary for the rest of the tour. You’ll have some time to rest, as you have likely been traveling for many hours. Overnight at a hotel.

  • Hotel

Enjoy a nice breakfast and then start sightseeing. We visit Old Delhi and Chandni Chowk, Jama Masjid, India Gate, and more. If you choose to skip or add a destination onto today’s itinerary, let us know and we are happy to manage that for you! Overnight at a hotel. 

  • Hotel
  • 5 hour
  • Breakfast
  • Sightseeing

Drive to Jaipur after breakfast and begin the sightseeing tour. Jaipur city was carefully planned, with massive forts, dazzling gardens, and fancy palaces. We explore the beautiful Pink City until dinner time and then you can relax/explore more in the evening. Overnight at a hotel.

  • Hotel
  • 5 hour
  • Breakfast
  • Sightseeing

After breakfast, we drive to the ancient capital of Amer, 11 km from Jaipur. Amer was the capital of the ancient Kachhawaha dynasty for more than 500 years and is home to the incredible Amber Fort. We also check out City Palace, which blends Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. Then, we visit Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), which is the picturesque fave-story façade made of pink sandstone that you have surely seen in movies or magazines. One more stop on our Jaipur tour is the Jantar Mantar, an observatory that is over 200 years old, but it’s accuracy is an astronomical feat. End the day with a delicious Indian dinner. Overnight at hotel. 

  • Hotel
  • 5-6hour
  • Breakfast
  • Sightseeing

After breakfast, we drive to Agra, perhaps the most famous destination on the Gold Triangle. Throughout the day, we witness the awe-inspiring Mughal architecture. When we arrive, we brief you on the sites of Agra and let you rest for a bit. Spend the rest of the day exploring, visiting bazaars, and enjoying the magnificent history that lies in Agra. Overnight at a hotel. 

  • Hotel
  • 5 hour
  • Breakfast
  • Sightseeing

Today will be a memorable day in your life. We can either visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise or sunset, depending on your preferences. The sheer beauty of the mausoleum is unmatched. You will probably never see a manmade structure so elegant. Also, today we visit Agra Fort, which, after several renovations, combines traditional Rajput and Mughal architecture. It was built with red sandstone, bricks, and marble. After a day of lovely exploration and sightseeing, we head back to the hotel for dinner. Overnight at a hotel. 

  • Hotel
  • 5 hour
  • Breakfast
  • Sightseeing

After breakfast, we head to Delhi. Check out any places that you wanted to see the first time that we missed. We brief you on the next part of our trip – Northeast India. Overnight at a hotel.

  • Hotel
  • 5 hour
  • Breakfast
  • Sightseeing

After breakfast, we take a flight to Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal. Upon arrival, we take a jeep up to Darjeeling on a scenic, hilly road. Arrive to the hotel in the afternoon and spend time walking around the streets, enjoying the fresh air of Darjeeling. There is plenty to see and lots of delicious foods to try as well. 

  • Hotel
  • 4 hour
  • Breakfast
  • 2,130m
  • Sightseeing

Begin sightseeing after breakfast. There is lots to see in Darjeeling, and we manage to see the best of the best. Check out Observatory Hill, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and the famous Everest Museum. Also, if you have interest, we can stop at the Padam Naidu Zoological Park, where you can see the rare Red Panda, the Himalayan Black Bear and Royal Bengal Tiger. In the afternoon, stop by the Tibetan Self Help Center and Happy Valley Tea Garden to try Darjeeling’s world famous tea. In the afternoon, we visit Dali Gompa/Monastery (also known as the Druk Thupten Sangag Choeling Monastery). If we get there on time, you can hear the monks doing their daily ritual prayer/music. In the evening, stroll around the quiet, traffic-free marketplace. Overnight in hotel.

  • Hotel
  • 5 hour
  • Breakfast
  • 2,130m
  • Cultural Tour

Begin driving to Pelling after breakfast. Pelling is a peaceful little getaway.After checking in at the hotel, visit Pemayangtse Monastery, designed and founded by Lama Lhatsun Chempo in 1705. It is one of the oldest and most famous monasteries in west Sikkim. Learn about the rich history of the monastery’s existence. The monastery follows the Nyingma Order of Tibet Buddhism and controls all other monasteries of that order in Sikkim.Then, we take a stroll through the Sewaro Rock Garden, a quiet yet rejuvenating place to hangout. Overnight at a hotel. 

  • Hotel
  • 7 hour
  • Breakfast
  • 2,150m
  • Sightseeing

After breakfast, we head towards Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim. We drive through Rabongla (or Ravangla) and admire the terraced tea gardens of Sikkim, including the famed Temi Tea Estate. We can stop here for an energizing cup of tea and look out at the scenic view before continuing to Gangtok. You can take a walk around MG Marg and enjoy the shopping center of Gangtok. Overnight at a hotel.

  • Hotel
  • 7 hour
  • Breakfast
  • 1,650m
  • Sightseeing tour

Havebreakfast at the hotel and head out for a wonderful day of sightseeing! We check out Rumtek Monastery, a famous one amongst Tibetan Buddhists. Monks of all ages come here to get educated and learn about the dharma. We can visit several other monasteries and places of significance around Gangtok. If you want to extend your Gangtok stay, we can spend a day visting Tsomgo Lake, a gorgeous glacial lake in the mountains, and Baba Mandir, a Hindu pilgrimage destination - two incredible spots in Sikkim. Overnight at a hotel.

  • Hotel
  • 5 hour
  • breakfast
  • 1,650m
  • Cultural Tour

Depart from Sikkim in the morning after breakfast. The chilled-out little town has lots to discover. Enjoy hilltop views, calm monasteries, and delicious food. Walk around, buying souvenirs and enjoying the last night on the Golden Triangle of East Himalaya Tour. Overnight at a hotel.

  • Hotel
  • 4 hour
  • Breakfast
  • 1,250m
  • Sightseeing tour

After breakfast, we take you to Bagdogra Airport for your final departure to Delhi. Thank you for joining us on the Incredible India Golden Triangle of East Himalaya – 14 Days Tour and we will look forward to you joining us again!

  • 4 hour
  • Breakfast
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What's Included

  • 13 nights hotel accommodation
  • Breakfast and dinner throughout the tour
  • Welcome and send-off by an Ashmita Trek and Tours representative during airport/station transfers
  • Welcome drink arrival
  • Sightseeing transportation with friendly local private driver
  • Necessary permit and monument entrance fees
  • Licensed guide throughout your tour
  • International and domestic Airfare.
  • Costs from unexpected occurrences (i.e. cancellations, weather problems, damages of property, illness, etc.)
  • Visa fee for India and Sikkim.
  • Transportation to Delhi Airport (before tour starts)
  • Lunch during the tour
  • Any charges for carrying still/video cameras etc. 
  • Alcohol, soft drinks, bottled water, beverages, etc. 
  • Personal expenses like tips for driver/guide, telephone calls, laundry, etc. 
  • Travel insurance.

Customer Reviews

  • E

    Emma kware, United Kingdom - September 22, 2013

    We were staying in darjeeling only for a short time and wanted to do a trek/tour of the himalayas. After wondering around the town for a while with no luck we eventually came across ashmita trek & tours. This was the only place we found with a tour to suit our time frame. We did a one day trek of the himalayas and the owner of the company was able to join us on the trek as our personal guide. Throughout the booking experiance we were not forced in any way and were provided with lots of information, pictures and videos of previous tours. We were picked up right outside our hotel and headed straight there. We were given large amounts of food all across the journey and were able to stop at any point we wanted for pictures or tea! The owner was very knowledgeable and the driver too. Our tour was meant to finish at 5pm but we were out until 8pm for no extra charge and dropped straight back to our hotel. The experiance and company were absolutely amazing and we ended up spending the next day with the owner as he was so lovely.
    There is absolutely nothing bad to say about the whole experiance Thank you so much Subash for showing us such a great time!

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