Arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), transfer to central Delhi hotel and check in or drop bags (most hotels allow luggage hold if early). This eases jet lag and lets you start Old Delhi comfortably.
Walk and take a short cycle-rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk’s bazaars; visit Jama Masjid for panoramic views from the minaret. Jama Masjid is typically open 7:00am–6:00pm (Friday midday prayers restrict entry), so plan accordingly.
Historic Mughal fortress with museums and palace complexes; a central Old Delhi landmark. Typical visiting hours are around 9:30am–4:30pm (confirm seasonal times).
One of Delhi’s top contemporary Indian fine-dining restaurants — book ahead for a creative tasting menu (opens around 7:00pm). Excellent way to end your first night.
Tallest brick minaret in India with surrounding ruins and archaeological exhibits; usually open 7:00am–5:00pm, so mornings are best to avoid heat and crowds.
Renowned for tandoor specialties and a memorable dining experience — arrive around lunchtime (Bukhara opens for lunch depending on day; if closed midday, choose an alternative like local café in Khan Market).
Lotus Temple offers quiet reflection (typically open 9:00am–7:00pm). Akshardham is an architectural/ cultural complex (visiting hours usually around 9:30am–6:30pm; note entry rules and that some shows/timings vary). Choose based on interest and time.
A major Mughal fort with palaces and courtyards overlooking the Yamuna; typical visiting hours are around 6:00am–6:00pm. Allows in-depth exploration away from the Taj crowds.
Garden across the Yamuna gives excellent sunset reflections of the Taj Mahal — opens around early morning to evening (approx 6:00am–6:00pm; sunset visits recommended but confirm seasonal timing).
Visit at sunrise to experience the Taj’s changing colors with fewer crowds. Typical visiting hours: approximately 6:00am–6:00pm; note the Taj is closed on Fridays (prayer day), so schedule accordingly.
Drive about 45–60 minutes to Fatehpur Sikri — a UNESCO red-sandstone city built by Akbar, worth a 1–1.5 hour visit. Typical hours around 6:00am–6:00pm.
Large hilltop fort with ornate palaces and courtyards; best visited early to avoid heat. Typical visiting hours around 8:00am–5:00pm. Transport up the hill via jeep; elephant rides are available seasonally but check status and animal welfare considerations.
City Palace offers museums and royal collections (usually open ~9:30am–5:00pm). Jantar Mantar is an 18th-century astronomical observatory (typically open ~9:00am–4:30pm). Both are adjacent and easy to combine.
See the iconic Hawa Mahal facade and stroll through Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar for jewelry, textiles and souvenirs (shops usually open ~10:00am–8:00pm).
Early-morning balloon rides give panoramic sunrise views over Jaipur’s forts and countryside — seasonal and weather-dependent, so pre-book with a reputable operator; rides usually run 5:00am–7:30am.
Visit a local studio to see and try traditional Jaipur crafts like block-printing or blue pottery — typically open 10:00am–6:00pm; great for meaningful souvenirs.
Optional cultural village-cum-restaurant with folk music, dance, and traditional Rajasthani food — usually open ~6:00pm–11:00pm. Great for experiencing local culture in one place.
Flight Jaipur (JAI) → Delhi (DEL) ~1 hour (plus airport time); road transfer takes ~4–6 hours depending on traffic. Choose flight for speed if you have an evening international departure.
Allow at least 3 hours for international departures (check airline requirements). End of the 7-day Golden Triangle trip; depart India or continue travel.