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
Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.
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Very great experience our driver D was…
Very great experience our driver D was never late and always had waters and a cold towel for us and our tour guide Som was very informative and had amazing English I recommend them both highly for anyone else traveling More
Rylan Coache, Feb 2024
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Excellent guide in Siem Reap
Our recent time spent in Siem Reap was made even more memorable by our expert guide, Som Piseth. Som was knowledgeable, attentive, flexible and super helpful - we learnt so much about Siem Reap and Cambodia in our 3 days with him. His English was excellent and his knowledge of, and pride in, his country was outstanding. We would highly recommend Som for anyone wanting an excellent guide in Siem Reap! More
Sharon Townshend, Feb 2024
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Asia Highlights trip to Thailand
Our first tour guide in Bangkok, Marie, was great to tour around with. She was extremely friendly and knowledgeable and spoke wonderful English. Our next stop in Chang Mai we were greeted by our new tour guide, Rafael. He too was extremely friendly and knowledgeable and spoke wonderful English. He made it feel as if we were traveling around with a long time friend. Every time we arrived at a new destination, we were greeted at the airport by someone with a sign with our name making our travels easy. I would definitely recommend Asia Highlights to anyone looking for a well planned trip of a lifetime! More
Tricia, Feb 2024
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Amazing Thailand experience
The tour guides were all knowledgeable and accommodating, especially Mayuree in Bangkok- absolutely wonderful. We felt taken care of and every step of the way was catered to our needs. More
Ashley White, Feb 2024
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Private tour perfect for our times
Asia highlights organized a private tour with our requests. Everything was perfect ?? the driver Tom and the guide Ying were always on time with a smile in their face. Always willing to help and make our trip perfect. Bangkok is a very hot city so we minimized the time outside. The driver always had cold towels for us in the van and cold beverages. More
Virginia, Feb 2024
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Thailand
We loved Chiang Mai and Susie did a great job showing us several temples, taking many pictures of us with the elephants at the sanctuary (a definite highlight of the entire trip!), and making sure we were well fed, which became a running joke between us.We had a very relaxing few days in Phuket enjoying the beautiful beaches. Kai was great, answering all of our questions and giving us a nice tour of the old town. The all-day speedboat tour of the Phi Phi islands started off a little shaky as the sea was quite rough so if you’re at all uncomfortable bouncing around in a speedboat, you might want to skip that tour. Things did calm down as the day went on and some of the areas they took us to for swimming, snorkeling, etc were really beautiful. A couple of the islands were too crowded with people. More
Andrea Roberts, Feb 2024
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What a Wonderful Trip
What a Wonderful Trip! We booked with Sharon and our trip was great - guides were waiting for us at each stop, and they were all very nice and helpful. I cannot stress how amazing the guides were - they made the trip. More
Rachel, Feb 2024
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Ask for Victor!
If you are traveling to Bangkhok you need to request Victor. He made our trip amazing! My family completed bucket list items with his guidance. He knew exactly how to get us places, kept us on time, made us feel safe, educated us on history, spoke excellent English and was genuinely a nice man! Everyone we encountered was awesome- but Victor is the reason for my 5 star review! More
Sandy, Jan 2024
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Thank you Alisa for helping us plan a…
Thank you Alisa for helping us plan a wonderful trip to Thailand. We had a great time. The tour guides were wonderful as were the hotels you booked for us. We will definitely contact you to plan our next trip More
Carol Yeung, Jan 2024
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Ying was the best
Ying was the best. She was really knowledgeable and kind. Thank you Ying for wonderful experience in Thailand! More
Sylvester Yeung, Jan 2024
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Very well organized
Very well organized. Our tour guide, Ying, was amazing! She had full knowledge of every location we visited and made sure our itinerary was fulfilled as expected. She was extremely helpful for our airport experiences, and made sure we arrived at an appropriate time. More
David M. Kang, Jan 2024
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Family trip to Thailand
We were lucky to be greeted by Marie and her driver.In Marie, we have made a friend for life. She is incredibly smart and knowledgeable about her home country. From the vast number of temples to safely traversing Chinatown.She helped give us tips on our free days, locate left behind lost clothing and arrange for pickup. She even helped check us in for our flight to Chiang Mai.She prepared us ahead of time for every event we had scheduled and bonded with our kids, 3x 13 year olds. More
Justin Levenbrook, Jan 2024
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Thailand with and amazing tour guide Ying
I highly recommend Ying as a tour guide in Thailand. Her expertise in Thai culture, combined with her passion for food and genuine love for her country, made the tour an exceptional experience. If you're looking for a guide who will not only show you the sights but also immerse you in the local culture and help you discover delicious Thai cuisine, Ying is the perfect choice. More
Diana Irizarry, Jan 2024
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Asia Highlights Thailand trip
Asia Highlights provided us with a great travel trip. They made it very easy to navigate through Thailand with everything going very smoothly. From the easy transportation to the great day itinerary everything was awesome. Will definitely look to use this agency again in the future. More
Taylor Jones, Jan 2024
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Perfect 2 WK Thailand Trip for a Solo Female Traveler
Bank was our guide in Bangkok and he showed us around the city with ease and we were able to see and try things I never would have planned on my own. After Bangkok, our small group flew to Chiang Mai for Yi Peng lantern festival and that was a breathtaking experience that I will never forget! Pop was our guide in this city and she was knowledgeable, kind and caring which made our experience even more memorable. More
Tia, Dec 2023
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We recently have just returned from Thailand
We recently have just returned one from a 5 week trip to Thailand through Asia Highlights. We had a wonderful time and Asia Highlights went beyond our expectations. They truly tried their best to make sure everything went smoothly and we were taken care of! Everyone was amazing and we would definitely use them in the future!! Many thanks to everyone that helped to make this an incredible once in a lifetime experience!! More
Karen Rocque, Dec 2023
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Indochina Experience
On our 5th day of our trip with Asiahighlights. We felt well taken care of before and it hasn’t changed since we started from Bangkok to Hanoi (guide Kim was verrry knowledgeable!) to Halong Bay (spectacular scenery) to Hoi An (guide Nhieu Tran, giving great local (shopping) tips and insights). More
Stefan Eisenhut, Dec 2023
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Accommodations by Asia highlights have
Accommodations by Asia highlights have been terrific so far. The Khmer Residence in Siem Reap as well as Eastin Grand hotel in Bangkok. Both had excellent pools and breakfasts.Tours in Siem Reap were particularly well given with an amazing mix of culture, history and humor throughout (Mr Poly). Tours in Bangkok by Mr Banks were informative and well organized with samples of Thai fruit and treats throughout. More
Chris Williams, Nov 2023
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Seeing Bangkok with ease
In Bangkok, our tour guide, Ying, was wonderful. She navigated all the sights with ease, gave us interesting tidbits on Thai culture and history, helped us pick the right food at all the restaurants, and was just a pleasure to be around. We had a great time, and it was so nice to not have to worry about any of the details. More
Diane Elkins, Nov 2023
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Thailand- October 2023!
The team in Thailand was also great. Shout out to our tour guides (Monchai in Bangkok, Indy in Chang Mai and Sonia in Phuket) they were the best!! It was 6 of us and they make us all feel right at home! Kudos! More
Mori P, Nov 2023
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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.
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
Inquire now! Your 1:1 travel consultant will reply within 1 working day.
Why Asia Highlights (10,000+ reviews & 98.8% 5-star rating)
- Save Your Time:
- Less research, more enjoyment!
- Real-time 1V1 expert planning
- Maximize Your Flexibility:
- Personal local guide and ride
- Explore at your own pace
- Celebrate Your Journeys:
- Specially-crafted family adventures
- Celebrate milestones with style!
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It was a whirlwind across a number of cities, but a very comprehensive experience across the many sides and cultures of China. Most days had sufficient activities, but weren’t overwhelming, which was great.Across cities, we had excellent tour guides, like Kitty (Beijing), Jenny (Xian), William (Guilin/Yangshuo), Kris (Shanghai), and Tony (Yellow Mountains.)
moreFrom the time we landed in Beijing until we left, we were well taken care of. My wife and I had Lily Liu as our guide and she was amazing. From arranging visits to all the different sights, to teaching us the history, it was fantastic.
moreThe tour was excellent. Selinda was very knowledgeable about all the aspects of our tour. Selinda was very interesting and knew so much Chinese history
moreWe made a private tour through South China in January 2024. Altogether Chengdu was the highlight. We had an incredible day at Emeishan. In Chengdu our guidewas Helen. She was the diamond of all. Speaking fluently English, full of interesting stories, laughing and talking all the time. We missed her the rest of our tour. We highly recommend to go to Chengdu for 3 days when visiting China, especially with Helen.
moreOther highlights are too many to mention but here are a few Ken taking us to the Terracotta Warriors and our food tour in Xian was amazing,
moreOur day volunteering at the Panda Base was truly unforgettable. Helen, our guide, provided us with invaluable insights about Chengdu and the pandas, enriching our tour with her knowledge and expertise. We're grateful to Helen for accompanying us throughout the day and showcasing the highlights of China.
moreWe had a booking with China Highlights through Silvia Ye who guarenteed a perfect organisation. In Chengdu our guide was Helen. She was the diamond of all. Speaking fluently English, full of interesting stories, laughing and talking all the time. We missed her the rest of our tour. We highly recommend to go to Chengdu for 3 days when visiting China, especially with Helen.
moreWe traveled to China during the Chinese new year and we had Kris as our guide and he is simply knowledgeable,helpful and great.
moreWe visited Guilin for 2 days and stayed in the Guilin Waterfall hotel. Guilin was absolutely beautiful! Our guide, William, was very knowledgeable and kind! He taught us so much about Guilin and the surrounding area! We really enjoyed trying the specialty rice noodles of Guilin. Our highlight was the Li river cruise.
moreAmazing tour and the guide Mr. 贺霄 was very accommodating with our needs and request as we have bought our 2 years old with us. Well explained for all the place we visited. Any additional cost were informed well ahead and didn't felt any pressure if we opt not to go for additional detour. The trip was relaxing/ laid back/no rushing with zero shopping!
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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.