(C) India's Golden Triangle
with an optional post-tour to Dubai
Here is the best of India's Golden Triangle - Delhi, Jaipur and Agra. Come with WTT as we explore the extraordinary cultural wealth and splendor of India's top destinations. We begin in Delhi, a fascinating city and great introduction to the country. We'll make our way to Jaipur, known as the "Pink City" and the former royal seat of the Maharajahs. And of course, no visit to India would be complete with seeing the Taj Mahal, which has been described as one of the most harmonious buildings in the world and manifests the wealth and luxury of Mughal art. Want more? We've added an optional post-tour to Dubai, a fascinating city in the Middle East well worth seeing.
(C) India's Golden Triangle
November 8 - November 20, 2020Highlights
- Enjoy city tours in Delhi & Jaipur
- Visit multiple UNESCO Heritage sites
- Learn about Indian cooking
- See the sun rise over the Taj Mahal
- Sip tea with a local Indian family
- See how henna is applied
- Time to explore personal interests
- Suggestions for additional things to see
- Small group no larger than 18
- And More... See itinerary for details
Itinerary
Sunday, 08 November 2020: Arrive Delhi; Transfer to Hotel
Schedule your arrival into Delhi at your convenience. India’s capital and a major gateway to the country, contemporary Delhi is a bustling metropolis that successfully combines the ancient with the modern. Group transfers from the airport to the hotel based on flight arrival times are provided. As most flights arrive in the evening, there are no organized activities planned for this day; however the WTT Tour Leader will be in the lobby of the hotel at 6:30PM to go to dinner (not included) with anyone who is interested. Overnight Delhi - 3 nights
Monday, 09 November 2020: Old Delhi Tour; Rickshaw Ride; Cooking Demonstration (B,L)
We begin at 8:00am with our official Welcome Meeting and enjoy breakfast at our hotel. Then, it's off to tour Old Delhi. We will stop for a photo op at the Red Fort, Delhi's most iconic monument built in the mid-1600s when the Moghul Empire was at its peak. We'll enjoy a rickshaw ride through the narrow alleys of Chandani Chowk, one of the oldest and busiest markets in Old Delhi. Later, we'll visit Raj Ghat, a simple memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, known as "father of the nation." Early this afternoon, we'll explore Indian cuisine during a cooking demonstration, followed by lunch. Upon returning to the hotel, the rest of the afternoon and evening will be free to relax.
Tuesday, 10 November 2020: New Delhi Tour; Humayun's Tomb; Market Visit (B,D)
Today, we visit New Delhi, which reflects the legacy the British left behind. Modern-day New Delhi is also trying to live up to the best of contemporary standards. Our tour will include the Qutub Minar in red and buff sandstone, which is the highest tower in India. It was built in 1199 A.D. for the use of the mu'assin (crier) to give calls for prayer. We'll also see the majestic Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It took Humayun's widow fourteen years to build this tomb, and it is the first distinct example of proper Mughal style, which was inspired by Persian architecture. This afternoon, there will be time for a visit to the market for those interested. We'll return to the hotel late this afternoon and enjoy dinner together at the hotel.
Wednesday, 11 November 2020: Fly to Udaipur; Lake Pichola Cruise (B,D)
This morning we depart to the airport for our short (1-hour) flight to Udaipur, in the west Indian state of Rajasthan. Udaipur is a beautiful and colorful area, famous for its scenic lakes and marble palaces. It is frequently called the "City of Lakes," due to the presence of five lakes in the city. Late this afternoon, we'll enjoy a cruise on one of these lakes: Lake Pichola. Overnight Udaipur - 2 nights
Thursday, 12 November 2020: Udaipur City Tour; Free Time; Folk Dance Performance (B,L)
We're in for a real treat this morning as we tour Udaipur and visit the City Palace, one of the architectural marvels of Rajasthan and the most-visited tourist attraction in Udaipur. Situated on the banks of Pichola Lake, the palace is a feast for the eyes - a marvelous assortment of courtyards, pavilions, terraces, corridors, rooms and hanging gardens. After lunch, there is time at leisure. Your WTT Tour Leader will have ideas and suggestions for how to fill this time, or perhaps, you'd just like a bit of downtime at the hotel. This evening, we'll enjoy an evening of traditional folk dance and music.
Friday, 13 November 2020: Travel to Jaipur (B,L)
Today, we drive to Jaipur, the capital of India's Rajasthan state. This will be a long day of driving (approximately 7 hours), but a wonderful way to see the countryside. In contrast to other Indian cities, Jaipur was designed with broad avenues in perfectly straight lines with cross-cutting streets, fascinating bazaars and marvelous palaces. The formal royal seat of the Maharajahs is also known as the “Pink City,” as the buildings were washed in a rich salmon color in honor of Queen Victoria when Prince Albert visited in 1853. Overnight Jaipur - 3 nights
Saturday, 14 November 2020: Amer Fort; Henna Art; Diwali Festival with Local Family (B,L,D)
Today, we visit Amer (sometimes called Amber) Fort, established in the 1500s as the capital and residence of the Jaipur rulers. In 2013, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Riding up atop an elephant is a popular way of reaching the fort, though walking or riding in a jeep ride are also possible. Inside, the fort consists of four courtyards, palaces, halls and gardens. After leaving the fort, we have an opportunity to participate in henna art and turban tying workshops. Tonight, we celebrate Diwali, India's annual festival of lights, at a family's home in Jaipur. We'll learn about the unique Diwali rituals, enjoy dinner, and join in the festivities.
Sunday, 15 November 2020: Textile Workshop; Visit City Palace & Observatory (B,L)
This morning we'll travel to the nearby town of Bagru to learn more about traditional wood block printing techniques using natural dyes. The local people, the Chhipa, have been involved in this printing tradition for more than 100 years. "Bagru prints" are considered unparalleled and a visit here is sure to be educational. This afternoon, we return to the heart of the Pink City to visit Jantar Mantar Observatory, built in 1726. It is one of the largest and best preserved observatories and is equipped with solar instruments, which look like large, abstract sculptures, that are remarkably accurate in measuring celestial data. We'll also visit the City Palace, built during the 1700s and home of the Maharaja rulers. This is an amazing complex with various courtyards, connecting buildings and fascinating museums.
Monday, 16 November 2020: Travel to Agra; Stops at Abhaneri Stepwell & Fatehpur Sikri (B,L)
We depart Jaipur this morning for our drive to Agra. En route, we'll stop at Abhaneri to see its stepwell, a series of steps that descend to wells. This stepwell, Chand Baori, is one of the largest and oldest in the world and believed to be one of the most beautiful. It consists of 3,500 narrow steps over 13 stories. Beyond providing water, it was used as a community gathering place during periods of extreme heat. After lunch, we will visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Fatehpur Sikri, a fascinating ghost city built in the 16th century that was the short-lived capital of the Mughal empire. We continue on to Agra, the city where the symbol of love was built - the Taj Mahal. Overnight Agra - 2 nights
Tuesday, 17 November 2020: Taj Mahal Sunrise Visit; Agra Fort; High Tea with Local Family (B,D)
Sunrise is by far the best time to visit the Taj Mahal as there is something magical about it as the early morning light turns the dome of the temple a soft, golden color. Little needs to be said about this architectural wonder and UNESCO World Heritage Site. After returning to the hotel for breakfast and to freshen up, we head to another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Agra Fort. The fort was a walled city that was home to the emperors of the Mughal dynasty until 1638, when the capital was moved to Delhi. This afternoon, we will join a local family for High Tea, one of the oldest traditions in India.
Wednesday, 18 November 2020: Fly to Varanasi (B,L)
Today, we will fly to Varanasi, said to have been founded by Shiva, the Lord of the Universe. One of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, it is also one of the most important pilgrimage sites in India and one of the holiest places in Hinduism. Situated on the banks of the sacred river Ganges, the city has been a center of learning and civilization for more than 2,000 years. Pilgrims come here to wash away sins in the sacred waters. Overnight Varanasi - 2 nights
Thursday, 19 November 2020: Boat Ride on the Ganges; Sarnath; Ganga Aarti Ceremony (B,L)
This morning, we will enjoy an early morning boat ride on the River Ganges and observe the Hindu way of life along the banks. After returning to the hotel for breakfast and to freshen up, we will visit Sarnath, one of Buddhism's most sacred places. This is the site where it is believed Buddha gave his first sermon after his enlightenment. Tonight, we say farewell to India during a Ganga Aarti ceremony, an uplifting spiritual ritual. While facing the river, Hindu priests use lamps which are circled around in a clockwise manner, accompanied by chants and songs. It is believed that after the ritual is complete, the Goddess showers her blessing on each individual present there.
Friday, 20 November 2020: Return to Delhi and Tour Ends - or - Continue on to Dubai (B)
This morning you may want to sleep in a bit or simply enjoy the amenities at the hotel. Late morning, we will depart for the airport for our flight back to Delhi. We anticipate arriving around 5:00pm. Schedule your return departure time no earlier than 8:00pm. Most international flights depart Delhi late in the evening. Take care to book the correct date if your flight departs after midnight.
See Reservation Form for pricing.
The flight from Delhi to Dubai is not included. Travelers must book the flight on own.
Friday, 20 November: Arrive Delhi with Main Tour and Fly to Dubai
Upon arrival at Delhi airport, we will fly together to Dubai on Emirates Airlines (EK) Flight #515 (Not included. Travelers must make their own reservation on this flight), departing Delhi (DEL) at 9:25pm and arriving Dubai (DXB) at 11:55pm. Note that exact flight times may shift. Be sure to book the correct Flight Number on the correct date. We will transfer to your hotel.
Saturday, 21 November: City Tour; Spice & Gold Souks; Dhow Dinner Cruise (B,D)
This morning, we'll explore Old Dubai, including the Ruler's Place and Al Fahidi Fort. We'll cross the Dubai Creek by "abra" (traditional water taxi) to visit the famous Spice Souk and Gold Souk. This afternoon there will be a bit of downtime. Your WTT Tour Leader will have ideas and suggestions or you may wish to rest and enjoy the amenities of the hotel. This evening, we'll enjoy dinner aboard a wooden dhow boat on the Dubai Creek.
Sunday, 22 November: Abu Dhabi Tour (B,D)
Today, we travel past the world's largest manmade port at Jebel Ali and continue along a coastal desert road lined with acacia trees to Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Here, we see modern interpretations of traditional Arabian architecture in the many skyscrapers, villas and palaces that line the Riviera-like road, stopping for a photo opportunity at the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the third largest mosque in the world. We can step back in time at the Heritage Village, a place where souks, a fishing village and Bedouin tents have been replicated to provide a better idea of what traditional life was like in Abu Dhabi. Our return journey takes us past the Formula 1 circuit and Ferrari World.
Monday, 23 November: New Dubai Tour; Desert Safari Camp (B,D)
Dubai's magnificent skyline is lined with iconic buildings, and this half-day tour will explore New Dubai. We'll drive around the manmade islands of the Palm Jumeirah; marvel at the glittering skyscrapers of Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence; take the monorail ride on Palm Island; and visit Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Leaving behind the bustle of the city this afternoon, we travel by 4WD vehicles on a thrilling journey over rolling dunes into the heart of the desert. Like a shimmering mirage, we will see the flickering lights of camp where a traditional Arabian welcome awaits. We'll relax on comfortable, low cushions in Bedu tents, have our hands painted with intricate henna designs, and simply enjoy the desert views. A feast is served and under a galaxy of stars we won't want this enchanting evening to ever end.
Tuesday, 24 November: Depart Dubai for Home (B)
Schedule your flight home from Dubai (DBX) at your convenience. Transfers to the airport are not included. Your Tour Leader can help travelers with making their own transfer arrangements.
(C) India's Golden Triangle
November 8 - November 20, 2020Pricing
Room Share
$4,194.00Single Room
$5,182.00Non-Members
ADD $100.00Status of this Tour
Do not Display to the Web
Tour Pricing Includes
- All meals and activities expressly listed in the itinerary, PLUS...
- All tipping of local guides
- WTT Tour Leader to enhance the individual & group experience
- Arrival Transfers
- Internal flights within India
- Arranged room sharing with another solo traveler
- Travel Dollar credits (a benefit of WTT membership) toward future travel with WTT
Not Included In The Price
- Airfare or other transportation to and from the tour
- Meals and activities not specified in the itinerary
- Beverages other than coffee, tea & still water unless otherwise noted
- Any personal expenses or expenditures
- Any pre- or post- tour arrangements
- Visa and/or passport fees
- Any gratuities for the WTT Tour Leader
- Travel Insurance
Payment Dates -and- Cancellation Terms for This Tour
These Payment and Cancellation Penalty Dates apply to India's Golden Triangle, Nov 8 - 20, 2020:
At Space Reservation: Initial Deposit is due.
Tuesday, 12 May 2020: Initial deposit cannot be parked and is forfeited if traveler cancels after this date.
Friday, 31 Jul 2020: Payment in full. 50% cancellation penalty after this date.
Wednesday, 9 Sep 2020: 100% forfeited if traveler cancels after this date.
Please review our Terms and Conditions before making your reservation. You will be required to confirm you have read and agree to WTT's terms & conditions before our website will allow you to submit the Reservation FORM.
By submitting the Reservation Form you are providing your electronic signature that you are authorizing WTT to charge your credit card the required amount due for the tour at this time, and to charge your credit card in a separate transaction for the membership length selected, if applicable.
Travel Insurance: It is your responsibility to purchase the amount of travel insurance you determine is appropriate to protect you from the risk of financial loss should you have to cancel your tour, or should unforeseen events, due to no fault of WTT, prevent the tour from operating in whole or in part as originally scheduled.
WTT does not sell travel insurance. As a convenience, we will email you information from 2 reliable travel insurance providers at the time we confirm your reservation, however you can purchase insurance from any provider you choose.
You can review the insurance information from TravelGuard to get an idea of rates.
(C) India's Golden Triangle
November 8 - November 20, 2020Flights, Transfers & Lodging
Arrival & Departure Information
Travelers will make their own air arrangements as follows:
When searching for flights for this trip, be sure to search "Multi-city" (on Kayak) or "Multiple Destinations" (on Expedia). For comparison, you may also want to search for one-way fares.
Arrival Airport: DEL - Delhi, India (Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport)
Arrival Date: Sunday, November 8th. Arrive at your convenience.
Arrival Transfer: Group transfers included based on flight arrival times. Details will be provided in your Final Travel Instructions.
Departure Airport: DEL - Delhi, India (Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport)
Departure Date: Friday, November 20th. Schedule your return flight no earlier than 8:00pm.
Departure Transfer: One group transfer included. See itinerary for flight info if you have added the Dubai post-tour.
Doing the Dubai Post-Tour?
Make Air Arrangements as follows:
Arrival Airport: DEL - Delhi, India (Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport)
Arrival Date: Sunday, November 8th. Arrive at your convenience.
Arrival Transfer: Group transfers included based on flight arrival times. Details will be provided in your Final Travel Instructions.
Friday, 20 November 2020
Book this flight: Emirates Airlines (EK) Flight #515
Departs From: DEL - New Delhi, India (Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport) at 9:25pm
Arrives in: DXB - Dubai, UAE (Dubai Int'l Airport) at 11:55pm
Note: Exact departure and arrival times may shift. This is normal. Be sure to book this flight number on this date.
Departure Airport: DXB - Dubai, UAE (Dubai Int'l Airport)
Departure Date: Tuesday, 24 November 2020. Schedule your departure from DXB at your convenience.
Departure Transfer: Not included. Your Tour Leader will assist with ride-sharing based on flight times.
Lodging / Hotels
Agra: Jaypee Palace Hotel
Jaipur: Shahpura House
Delhi: The Suryaa
Udaipur: Inder Residency
Varanasi: Hotel Madin Varanasi
In the unlikely event WTT is unable to provide the hotel accommodation(s) listed, for whatever reason, WTT will substitute similar quality accommodation(s) at no additional cost to the traveler.
Want to Arrive a Day Early?
- The room (standard check-in times apply)
- Breakfast the following morning
- Transfer from airport to hotel
- Optional activity suggestions prior to tour
$148.00 Roomshare $235.00 Single
The pre-tour package is an optional service. Rates are established at time of tour posting. Early check-in is solely at the discretion of the hotel and cannot be arranged in advance.
Additional Reminders About This Tour
VISA(s): This trip requires a visa for the following country(s):
- Dubai: Can be obtained upon arrival
- India: Apply online at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa
- To learn more about Visa requirements and the cost, visit: cibtVisas.com
- WTT will provide the necessary information to complete your visa application shortly after final payment.
(C) India's Golden Triangle
November 8 - November 20, 2020Destination Information
What do others say about this tour and traveling with WTT?
How Does Room Sharing Work?
- If you wish to share with another solo traveler, select this option on the Reservation Form and your tour price will automatically be based on the room share price.
- Or, you may select a single room, when available, on the Reservation Form and your tour price will be automatically based on the single room price.
- These choices are clearly stated on the Reservation Form.
- All shared rooms have 2 beds
- All shared rooms are non-smoking
- No special requests about your roommate can be accommodated
- Most solo travelers elect to share a room
- See "Frequently Asked Questions" TAB for more details
How Active is this Tour?
Because of this requirement, WTT tours are not suitable for anyone who is physically challenged, walking impaired, or is a slow walker that cannot keep up with the pace of the group.
The activities on this tour are rated as follows:
- 40% Easy
- 55% Moderate (underdeveloped infrastructure, driving distances)
- 5% Strenuous (crowds)
If you are in doubt as to your ability to meet the physical activity requirements, you should not sign up for this trip.
Read more about Activity Levels
What meals are included and how are dietary restrictions accommodated?
- Breakfast daily
- 8 Lunches
- 4 Dinners (a combination of meals at hotels and restaurants)
Selections for the included lunches and dinners will highlight the local cuisine. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dietary requests can be accommodated on this tour with limited selections.
What clothing and items should I pack for this trip?
In general the temperature, rainfall and humidity levels vary based on the time of the year. We suggest you monitor weather apps before you depart for the most current information. For worldwide weather refer to http://www.accuweather.com/en/world-weather.
For this Trip You May Want—
- Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that is conservative in nature
- Swimsuit—hotels have pools.
- Sunblock, hat, sunglasses
- Toilet paper, it may not always there when you need it.
- Bring what you need to get a good night's sleep, such as ear plugs, white noise generator, sleeping pills, etc. Unfamiliar noises of all types can disrupt your rest.
Good Packing Habits—
- Pack a limited amount of comfortable, casual clothing that layer and coordinate. Your fellow travelers will not mind – or even notice – seeing you in the same clothing.
- Bring only two pairs of everyday shoes: one pair of well-broken-in closed toe walking shoes, and a second pair that could do double-duty as a walking shoe or a slightly dressy shoe.
- Pare down your beauty regimen to the bare minimum and always pack travel-sized toiletries.
- Pack medication in your carry-on and pack only as much as needed for the duration of your tour plus a few extra days as a precaution.
What are the luggage restrictions for this tour?
On every WTT tour, our policies regarding luggage restrictions are driven by the physical space limitations of the vehicles we use and the requirement that all travelers be able to manage their own belongings without assistance.
- It is best to can travel as lightly as possible. Most travelers regret when they have packed too much.
- We strongly recommend you bring only one suitcase, plus 1 carry-on, which will make it easier to manage your belongings.
- You are responsible for managing your own belongings. We expect you to take your belongings from the coach to your room and to bring it back to the coach on days we change hotels. We do not provide luggage pulls; they are not safe and are inconvenient.
- Keep in mind that you will be traversing airports as part of this itinerary and will need to handle your own luggage through customs. You will need to pay any and all charges you may incur by the airlines from overweight luggage.
- If you carry a purse, it should be able to be worn across your body, hands-free.
- If you are planning on shopping, have larger items shipped directly to your home. For smaller items you want to carry home, bring a small nylon zippered bag packed in your suitcase to accommodate these purchases.
What are the health recommendations for this tour?
The standards for health and hygiene in India are average. Be sure to drink bottled water and do not consume raw or under-cooked foods.
- Air quality is occasionally an issue in Delhi and other areas of India. Those who are particularly sensitive to airborne infections or have allergies or difficulty breathing should take care. You may want to carry a traveler's antibiotic ('z-pack') with you as a precaution.
- While there are no specific vaccine requirements for India or Dubai, you should be up-to-date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides additional guidance at www.cdc.gov.
- Please discuss any vaccine or preexisting health concerns with your healthcare provider.
What are the phone and internet recommendations for this tour?
Only you can determine your need to stay in contact while traveling. Internet access is available in most hotels, sometimes for a fee.
- If you are bringing a cell phone, contact your cell phone service provider before departing about adding international calling and/or texting features. Texting internationally is often less expensive than placing a cell phone call.
- Learn how to make an international call BEFORE you leave. Consult your cell provider and check out the web site www.HowtoCallAbroad.com.
What are the electricity requirements for this tour?
You may need to purchase an adapter. To determine the electric plug configuration needed for your destination, refer to http://www.iec.ch/worldplugs/list_bylocation.html. A universal adaptor supports a wide variety of sockets/plugs. You should also check your electronic devices for voltage compatibility. Many countries operate on 220V or 230V, which differs from most of North America. Most of today's electronics (laptops, phone chargers etc.) are multi-voltage and will work worldwide automatically, without a transformer. Consult your owner's manual for further details.
How much money should I bring on this tour?
Only you can determine the optimum amount of cash to take on tour. When budgeting for out-of-pocket expenses, there are several aspects to consider: the number of meals you are responsible for, the amount of money you like to have on-hand for snacks and drinks, and your individual shopping interests and habits.
- Notify your credit card issuer that you will be traveling and provide dates of travel.
- ATMs are typically the best way of obtaining cash; they are found in most towns and cities; you must know your PIN number for your debit and credit cards in order to use the ATMs.
- The official currency used in India is the Indian Rupee. It is difficult to exchange rupees outside of India, so plan to exchange money at an authorized establishment at the Delhi airport. You will want to keep your exchange receipt as you will need it to reconvert rupees to USD at the end of your stay.
What are the tipping guidelines for this tour?
All tips to local guides during your tour have already been paid on your behalf.
- You are responsible for tipping wait-staff, porters, or other individuals who provide a service to you at the hotel, or other public locations.
- Tipping in India is appreciated but not always expected.
- You may want to tip your WTT Tour Leader for an outstanding job. The amount is entirely a personal preference. If you'd like a guideline, consider $8-$10 per day.
What other Additional Information do I need to know?
VISA(s): This trip requires a visa for the following country(s):
- Dubai: Can be obtained upon arrival
- India: Apply online at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa
- To learn more about Visa requirements and the cost, visit: cibtVisas.com
- WTT will provide the necessary information to complete your visa application shortly after final payment.
Can I transfer my deposit to another tour?
To get off this tour and register for another tour, you must follow these steps - in the order shown:
2) WAIT before submitting your new reservation! You must receive the Cancellation Confirmation email before submitting your new reservation. This can take up to 2 business days. The Cancellation Confirmation email will list the amount of parked credits from this tour that are now available to use on a new reservation.
3) COMPLETE the new Reservation Form and USE the parked credits towards your deposit on the new tour.
Note: If you used Parked Credits to pay the deposit on this tour, these credits cannot be used a second time and are not eligible to be transferred.
What happens if I need to cancel this tour?

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