Delhi, Agra, Jaipur. The three corners of India’s so called ‘Golden Triangle'. A living history of colour and culture, it can seem like a minefield to navigate. You arrive into Delhi, tired and jet-lagged, and traverse a city of some 25 million people. And before you’ve had to time relax and recuperate you’re off again to one of its far-flung corners by plane, train or car. The Hotel Guru’s ultimate guide to the best places to stay in India’s Golden Triangle includes some of the best budget, boutique and five star properties, as well as some great stays for families and couples.
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Whilst Delhi to Agra is easily done by road or train (you can even make a day trip of it), Jaipur is well connected by road and train from Delhi and Agra, and there are plenty of daily flights from Delhi. It really depends on your budget and personal preference.
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A tale of two cities. Incorporating New and Old, Delhi is a beacon to both modern and ancient India. The Hotel Guru’s guide to the best places to stay in Delhi reflect both the city's age and modern splendour.
There are plenty of excellent budget options for a place to stay in Delhi.
All great options, at an impressive price.
Being India’s capital Delhi has its fair share of five star properties.
Home to one of one of the Seven Wonders of the World: The Taj Mahal. Most people do not spend more than a night in Agra - and we would not advise you do. The Hotel Guru’s guide to the best places to stay in Agra enjoy some of the best views of that monument to love as well as some off the beaten track options.
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Image by DISHARI DE from Pixab
Jaipur: the jewel in the crown. Rajasthan's capital and a haven for the arts, textiles and you guessed it, jewellery. The Hotel Guru’s guide to the best places to stay in Jaipur reflect the city's opulence and rich Rajasthani heritage.
Jaipur boasts some great homestays where guests will appreciate the warm Rajasthani welcome.
If you can’t find your ideal property on our list of the Best Places to Stay in India’s Golden Triangle, you could:
Delhi (Diplomatic Enclave)
A gorgeous new addition to Delhi’s luxury hotels in a superb location. An iconic palace style hotel in characterful grandeur - columns, marble floors, enormous spaces. Elegant rooms, fantastic spa, and a fabulous selection of world-class cuisine. Perfect for business or leisure.
Delhi
An iconic heritage hotel in Delhi whose modern updates have been done in synergy with its colonial and Art Deco interiors; think marble floors, teak furniture, and white-washed elegance. Plus there are fabulous restaurants, great afternoon tea and a large underground marble spa.
Delhi
A 1950s bungalow in a lovely residential area away from the hustle and bustle. Spacious rooms are light and airy and minimalist in design. Boasting an elegant Italian restaurant and an acre of gardens. A welcome Delhi refuge.
Delhi
Classic, calm address in Lutyen's Delhi. A haven of peace and relaxation set in three acres of gardens with a lovely pool area. Contemporary classic reception rooms and minimalist rooms and suites. With an indulgent spa, excellent restaurants, and standout service - this is a classic luxury stay.
Delhi
Delhi's oldest heritage hotel, set in a tranquil haven of gardens and shady trees. Enormous rooms have a colonial feel with dark wood furniture, inlay mirrors and high ceiling. With a large outdoor pool (a rarity in Delhi) and an all-day restaurant, this is an easy and well priced city base.
Delhi
Popular, comfortable, fun and homely guesthouse near Humayun's Tomb. Colourful rooms feature a collection of Indian art and antiques. Fantastic breakfasts are served on the rooftop terrace with epic views. The ideal laid back base from which to explore Delhi.
Jaipur (Rajasthan)
Delightful haveli hotel in large beautiful grounds. Simple, traditional and elegant rooms with cooling verandahs. A haven of tranquility in a quiet part of town. Rooms feature four poster beds and local artworks. Lots of quirky charm. In January it hosts the Jaipur Literary Festival.
Jaipur (Nr Jal Mahal)
This luxurious Maharaja's Palace has beed exquisitely restored with the finest Italian marbles, Egyptian cottons, mahoganies, and Swarovski chandeliers. The 38 suites are divine, as are the equally majestic verandahs, gardens, and food in the wonderful restaurant.
Jaipur (Rambagh)
Royal treatment in the home of the former Maharaja of Jaipur. The interior decoration and surrounding grounds echo the magic of a bygone era - marble floors, beautiful colonnades, and acres of luscious gardens. A fabulous place to stay.
Jaipur (Jaipur )
A quaint spot in the middle of a lively city. A great choice for individuals or couples. Fantastic central courtyard swimming pool and sun deck is perfect for lounging or sipping on a cocktail. Romantically decorated bedrooms, soothing spa facilities and stunning dining room.
Jaipur (Village Samode)
A traditional Rajput palace just outside Jaipur. Wonderfully romantic rooms and suites, all individually decorated, but each as magical as the next. Terraces, pools, tennis courts, camel safaris, fantastic Rajasthani and European food. Regal and luxurious.
Jaipur
A five star palace just outside Jaipur. Luxury rooms, suites, tents, and villas decorated with the utmost style - romantic, sophisticated, antique. Four poster beds, private pools, butler services. Fantastic food, state of the art spa, attentive staff. An utteraly spoiling experience.
Delhi (Pragati Vihar)
Formerly an Aman, following its renovation, this hotel had a lot to live up to. Its style is modern Indian: ornate lattice is worked into geometric shapes, huge rooms combine contemporary furnishings with silk and the odd elephant print. There is a gourmet restaurant, idyllic pool and fabulous spa.
Delhi (Jangpura Extension)
A modern, spotlessly clean hotel, boasting a central location and great rates. Rooms are smallish but perfectly formed with workstations, minimalist style, and rain showers. There is a library as well as a cafe serving light snacks. An easy choice for a city base.
Agra
Serene, contemporary hotel with tasteful touches of Indian design. A tranquil haven in bustling, historic Agra which invites guests to enjoy the outdoor pool, fitness centre, and spa. Family-friendly kids club. Delicious European and Indian fare in the restaurant.
Agra
Spellbinding luxury hotel with stunning views of the Taj Mahal. Sublime spa, outdoor pool, fitness and wellbeing centre. Majestic marble hallways and open courtyard. Furnished to impeccable standard with traditional Indian accents. Dine in one of two marvellous onsite restaurants.
Agra (Tajganj)
Glorious views of the Taj Mahal from this top-quality hotel offering an astonishing range of activities and facilities including spa, swimming pool, beauty parlour, outdoor dining, rooftop cafe and spectacular private suites. Bedrooms are comfy, chic and pristine with carefully selected furnishings.
Jaipur (Rajasthan )
An old-soul sanctuary on the outskirts of Jaipur. Fifteen special suites with colourful accents, a serene swimming pool, romantic grounds, and a delicious breakfast.
Jaipur (Ajmer Road)
Featured in The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. Providing idiosyncratic rooms with decor from around Rajasthan. Each of their ten rooms are individually and intricately decorated - right down to the bathroom tiles. Dine and the popular Peacock restaurant (just 200m away). Excellent value.
Jaipur (Ajmer Road)
Budget hotel in the heart of Jaipur with bundles of charm and a popular rooftop restaurant. The 23 rooms are packed with character and there is a pleasant lounge and well stocked library. Peacock Restaurant serves delicious Rajasthani dishes and is always thriving. Staff are happy to help.
Jaipur (Rajasthan )
A rose-tinted palace in The Pink City with thirteen unique rooms and stylish suites. All are wallpapered in palettes of contrasting colours: reds and pinks, blue with white, greens and oranges — very striking. Dining is international in flavour, plus there's a pool, tennis court and lovely gardens.
Jaipur (Rajasthan)
A chic oasis just a short drive, yet a world away from town. This owner managed property reflects their young spirit. Retro rooms are decorated with wonderfully kitsch, Indian curios. There is an organic vegetable garden and room price is full board. Plenty of activities make it great for families.
Delhi
A charming homestay well positioned in the city centre. Individually decorated rooms are filled with antique artefacts and knick-knacks. There is a well stocked library and sitting room for guests to congregate. A buffet breakfast is served and delicious home-cooked meals are available on request.
Delhi (Dharam Pura)
A one of a kind haveli set in the beating heart of bustling Old Delhi- yet a haven of tranquility. Mughal style rooms feature ornate arches, stained glass windows and benefit from modern bathrooms. Traditional Indian dishes are beautifully presented and served with a modern twist. An authentic stay.
Delhi (Diplomatic Enclave, )
The sort of five-star luxury you would expect from a worldwide name like Taj. Boasting two of Delhi's finest restaurants and one of its best spas, Taj Palace only does things in the superlative. Gleaming rooms feature large beds and modern marble bathrooms. All this plus a huge outdoor pool.
Jaipur (Kukas)
A truly unique property: "Glamping with Elephants"! Located a 30-minute drive from Jaipur this private desert camp features classic, colonial style tents and furnishings. Dine under the stars, by the campfire at night. Operational from October - April. Great for couples and families.
Rajasthan (Rajasthan)
A great place to stay when visiting the Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri, without having to stay in chaotic Agra. Boasting an impressive dining hall, manicured grounds and rooms decorated with traditional furnishings. Largely North Indian dishes are served, plus a continental breakfast. Well priced.
Agra (Rajasthan,)
An 18th century heritage hotel boasting acres of grounds, an outdoor pool, massage and excellent proximity to the Taj Mahal. Rooms are large with modern bathrooms, antique furnishings and ornate fabrics. Gulmohar restaurant serves tasty, regional vegetarian cuisine. A great stay.
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