Where to Stay in India’s Golden Triangle Right Now
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If you’re visiting India—and especially if it’s your first time there—chances are high you’ll be traveling along the Golden Triangle. One of the most common tourist routes in the country, it connects the northern cities of New Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, and is named after the triangle the three points produce on a map. The circuit can be traveled by car or plane, depending on how much time you have to explore, with each stop offering a completely unique experience. You’ll find Mughal-era architecture in New Delhi, India’s capital city; salmon-colored buildings, vibrant flower markets and lively shopping bazaars in Jaipur; and the grand Taj Mahal in Agra, which is also home to plenty of other palaces and forts worth seeing.
The circuit is also laden with worthwhile accommodations—so when it comes to choosing a hotel to call home in each city, you’ll have your work cut out for you. These nine hotels will make narrowing down exactly where to stay a bit easier, whether you’re looking for a palace with massive grounds or a room with Taj Mahal views.
Raffles Jaipur
Kukas, Jaipur
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Located northeast of the city center, this intimate property should be your top pick if you want to escape the bustle—but still be within easy reach—of Jaipur. The hotel is modeled after a palace, and everything about your stay here will make you feel like royalty, from the butler service and spa treatments to the spacious rooms outfitted with canopy beds and hand-painted decals. When hunger strikes, enjoy North Indian–inspired cuisine at Arkaa restaurant, or head to the rooftop for Mediterranean cuisine at Sehara. The next morning, book a butler-curated heritage tour of all Jaipur’s major sites.
The Oberoi Rajvilas
Jagdish Colony, Jaipur
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Just over 15 minutes from downtown Jaipur without traffic, The Oberoi Rajvilas is a 32-acre, nature-filled oasis. Peacocks openly roam the property, along with more than 40 other species of birds. The hotel has plush rooms and villas, but for an unusual stay, book a luxury tent, outfitted with air conditioning, plus a king-size bed, claw-foot tub and TV. And don’t worry about haggling in the bazaars—vendors come to the property every night, selling puppets, bangles and block-printed fabrics. The hotel also offers leopard safaris, hot-air-balloon rides and garden yoga through its concierge.
Rambagh Palace, Jaipur
Rambagh, Jaipur
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While many hotels in India are modeled after royal residences, Rambagh Palace, Jaipur was actually built for a king: The property was constructed in 1835 and later became a royal guesthouse and hunting lodge for the maharaja. It now includes 78 guest rooms, four restaurants and several courtyard gardens. A standout among its dining options is Steam, a lounge set in a restored train car, complete with a steam engine. But if you’d rather go out in the city, downtown Jaipur is just 10 minutes away by car.
The Leela Palace New Delhi
Chanakyapuri, New Delhi
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Set in the capital’s diplomatic district, The Leela Palace New Delhi is centrally located near a majority of the monuments, forts and gardens you’ll want to see during your stay. The building’s façade is modeled after a palace, and the interior features traditional design elements like hand-carved artifacts and artwork by Indian artisans. The rooms are equally grand, outfitted with patterned rugs and, in some cases, large multitier crystal chandeliers and balconies. You’ll also find four restaurants on property, serving everything from Japanese to traditional Indian fare. The hotel’s Library Bar is a must-visit for a nightcap, with its Indo-Victorian design and extensive cocktail menu.
The Roseate New Delhi
Samalka, New Delhi
Spread across eight acres in New Delhi, The Roseate is a spectacle of design. Inspired by the five elements of Hindu philosophy (air, water, fire, earth and sky), the hotel has bronze meshwork in the guest areas, domed ceilings and brightly colored sculptures, plus three stunning dining rooms serving traditional Indian, European and Asian cuisines. Make sure to hit up the spa at least once during your stay to try amenities like the traditional hammam and yoga pavilion. And when you’re ready to head to your next stop on the Golden Triangle, you’re just a short drive from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL).
Haveli Dharampura
Chandni Chowk, New Delhi
Perfect for visitors seeking a piece of the past, Haveli—also the broad term for India’s ornate mansions—was built in 1887 and recently underwent a six-year restoration to preserve its historic charm. Each of the 14 rooms was painstakingly repaired to maintain original details like stone archways and intricately carved wooden furniture. Even many of the activities on offer are traditional in nature, including kite flying, high tea and kathak dance performances. For dinner, there’s a modern twist on Mughlai cuisine, with elevated takes on street-food classics like kebabs.
The Oberoi Amarvilas
Tajganj, Agra
Less than a mile from the Taj Mahal, The Oberoi Amarvilas is arguably one of the most sought-after hotels in Agra, thanks to its location and the fact that each of its rooms and suites has a view of the famous monument. The hotel’s grounds are also a draw, with Mughal-inspired fountains, reflection pools and pavilions. Inside, you’ll find all the comforts of a luxury hotel, including a temperature-controlled swimming pool, 24-hour gym and round-the-clock butler service. For a unique dining experience, book a private dinner served on your room’s balcony, with the Taj Mahal standing sentry in the background.
The Grand Imperial
Chhipitola, Agra
Set in the center of Agra, the Grand Imperial has been in operation since the early 1900s. The 50 rooms here span three categories and include canopy beds, Indian textiles, heritage tiles and pool or garden views. Sites like Agra Fort are nearby, as are the Idgah Railway Station and Agra Airport (AGR), making The Grand Imperial easily accessible no matter how you arrive in town. When it’s time to explore, book tours of the Taj Mahal and the city’s other attractions through the concierge.
ITC Mughal
Agra
Agra is known for its crowds of tourists, but at ITC Mughal, you’ll find an escape from the masses. The property spans 23 acres and boasts a full-service spa and large outdoor pool. Each of its 233 rooms and suites has garden views, and some larger suites even have direct pool access. There are also three restaurants serving variations on Indian food, with the standout being Peshawri, where you can watch your meal being prepared in the display kitchen. All this is just a 10-minute drive from the Taj Mahal.
Booking With Chase Travel
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Looking for inspiration? Eligible Chase cardmembers can explore hotel reviews and editor-curated guides at chasetravel.com.
Lead photo by Angela Sun.
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