For even the most intrepid of travellers, India can be a sensory assault – confronting and riveting in equal measure. If you’re a first-timer to the subcontinent, the Golden Triangle which threads together New Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur offers the best crash-course in getting to grips with India. I first tripped around the Golden Triangle fourteen years ago and I’ve recently completed a return visit with Wendy Wu Tours. It was fascinating to discover the remarkable changes and dramatic swing in living standards, while many aspects to the allure of the Golden Triangle remained unchanged. 

The World Bank estimates around 171 million Indian people have been lifted out of extreme poverty in the past decade. The booming middle-class has doubled in size in the past 20 years and continues to grow, as is exemplified by the forests of gleaming apartment towers sprawling across New Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. Road travel is significantly faster, with major highway projects slashing travel time to Agra and Jaipur from New Delhi. The capital city struck me as decidedly cleaner than I recall from 14 years ago, with far less litter on the streets. 

Colour and chaos in New Delhi. Photo / Mike Yardley 

However, the mounds of rubbish polluting the roadside are still depressingly conspicuous on the highway and in smaller towns. Tragically, many wandering cows who famously enjoy sacred status in India, succumb to choking on plastic while foraging for food scraps among the heaving piles of litter. Hordes of street children begging at busy traffic intersections is still a common encounter, as is the sight of people blithely taking a dump on the footpath. But beyond those confronting everyday spectacles, India immeasurably rewards the eager visitor, whether it’s your first foray or if you’re returning for a fresh dollop. 

Here's a round-up of my top pointers and suggestions on how to make a swing through India as seamless and stress-free as possible. I hugely rate Wendy Wu Tours and their local expert operators as the go-to touring company. Their week-long Classic India Private Tour showcases the Golden Triangle, encompassing three historically and culturally significant cities: Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. India's rich heritage takes centre-stage, including the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, the historic forts and palaces of Jaipur, and Delhi's blend of old and new, with stand-out landmarks like the Red Fort and Qutub Minar.  

Monument touring in India. Photo / Mike Yardley 

Over the course of seven days, you will feel fully immersed in the diverse splendour of Indian culture, history, and architecture. You’ll enjoy complete flexibility because you can travel on any day you wish, year-round. The itineraries are expertly crafted and can be tailored for parties as small as one. Because it’s a private trip, you are choosing who you’re travelling with, whether you’re tripping on your own, as a couple, with friends or as a family. What I particularly enjoy about this is that a private tour undeniably delivers a far more intimate and authentic travel experience. All of our private guides fast became friends – and we swapped social media addresses. And our delightful driver, Mr Singh, who spirited us around the entire Golden Triangle route, was the consummate, seasoned, and unflappable pro behind the wheel – no matter how many reckless motorists unleashed their heart-in-your-mouth overtaking and undertaking manoeuvres! Red Bull should sign up Mr Singh for the F1. With Wendy Wu Tours, you can also opt for a tailor-made private holiday to optimise your itinerary and accommodation preferences, as much as you wish. The itinerary can be as active or as laid back as you are, with full flexibility over included meals and excursions. 

When should you go? For the Golden Triangle circuit, the optimum time is from mid-September, just after the monsoon season, until April when the mercury can boil fiercely. Days are generally warm, but nights can be chilly, with temperatures in New Delhi sometimes dipping as low as 7C at the end of the year. November and February are regarded as the peak travel months, dovetailing with the best weather and wedding season, so expect bigger crowds and higher prices, especially for hotels. 

Shopping the bazaars in India. Photo / Mike Yardley 

Tipping is customary and expected in restaurants, hotels and for services, but amounts can vary. Generally, 10% in restaurants and small change for porters and drivers. Although credit cards are widely accepted, I would definitely recommend converting some currency into Indian rupees, particularly for tips, and when visiting small shops and local bazaars. 

What about food hygiene and keeping healthy? You will soon notice that eating with your hands is a deeply rooted custom in Ayurveda, believed to enhance mindfulness and digestion. The right hand is typically used, as the left is considered unclean in many traditions. Care is taken to scoop food with the fingers, using the thumb to push it into the mouth while keeping the palm clean. To enjoy street food safely, stick to popular stalls with high turnover, opt for freshly cooked items, avoid uncooked ingredients, and be super cautious of water sources by choosing boiled or bottled drinks.  

Street foot in New Delhi. Photo / Mike Yardley 

My guides with Wendy Wu Tours were a trusty font of wisdom and comfort as to where to buy street-food and where to give the wide berth! Chilled bottles of water were always available from Mr Singh. I had no brushes with the dreaded “Delhi belly”, but as a precaution add a packet of Imodium tablets to your toiletry bag in case you have a tummy turbulence. Delve into India with the award-winning tour specialists across Asia and beyond. You’ll be in the best of hands with Wendy Wu Tours. wendywutours.co.nz/india 

Golden Triangle tours start and end in New Delhi with airport transfers all part of the Wendy Wu Tours experience. I would strongly recommend you stay by the airport when you return to New Delhi, prior to your flight the following day. AeroCity is a major new precinct just minutes from Indira Gandhi Airport and I stayed a night at the fabulous Pullman Aerocity. Far from being just another soulless, airport hotel, Pullman Aerocity is not just one of New Delhi’s best five-star hotels, but it pops with personality.  

Forgettable functionality far too often defines the airport hotel experience, but luxury and comfort take precedence at the Pullman New Delhi Aerocity. From the eye-catching art installations to the state-of-the-art amenities, this property has fast cultivated a following among not just discerning business travellers but holidaymakers seeking a little pre-flight pampering, in addition to local guests craving an indulgent staycation (it’s very busy on the weekend). 

The contemporary architecture and interiors set the stage for a splendid layover from the moment you step inside its expansive, art-filled lobby. Feast your eyes on the paintings and sculptures from famous Indian artists. Designed by renowned architect Meriem Hall, Pullman Aerocity’s architectural concept stems from a world brimming with poetic curves, full of elements that walk the fine line between definite and abstract. Geared at titillating the senses, the adorned spaces are a culmination of nature, business and leisure; where movement, energy and music create a harmonious rhythm of space and design.  

Push the boat out and reserve an Executive Suite. The spacious rooms are equipped with plush bedding, spacious bathrooms, WiFi, TV and floor to ceiling windows overlooking the runway, which ticked all the boxes for this plane-spotter. The suites also provide access to the Executive Lounge for extra indulgence, complimentary drinks and snacks. 

Accommodation at Pullman New Delhi Aerocity. Photo / Suppled

Foodies will find themselves spoilt for choice with Pullman's eclectic dining options. Farmers’ Basket At Pluck, the all-day dining restaurant, offers farm-to-table experiences with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The lavish buffets and Sunday brunches are deliciously curated. The in-house bar, Pling, is the go-to spot for expertly crafted cocktails and a bubbly ambience perfect for unwinding after a long day. Pan-Asian food lovers can relish a meal at Honk, where the Peking Duck, handcrafted sushi and the extensive Dim Sum menu is mouth-watering. 

Pullman New Delhi Aerocity also excels in the wellness stakes. The Fitness Centre is generously loaded up with the latest fitness technology to keep you active, while the serene Pullman Spa offers rejuvenating treatments to melt away stress. I particularly liked the outdoor swimming pool, flanked by stylish cabanas and lush greenery. It adds a resort-like feel to the property, making it easy to forget you're just by the airport. With its luxurious offerings, innovative amenities, and an unwavering commitment to sparkling hospitality, this property and its fabulously outgoing staff exemplifies what every great lifestyle hotel should strive to be like. all.accor.com  

Pool time at Pullman New Delhi Aerocity. Photo / Supplied

From New Zealand, it’s just a one-stop connection to a multitude of destinations in India, including New Delhi, with Singapore Airlines, on their various daily services from Auckland and Christchurch to Singapore. Enjoy well-timed connections for an easy transit in Singapore. Across all classes of travel, the award-winning carrier has not only fostered a world-beating reputation for its exceptional customer service and in-flight product, but also its innovation. Become a KrisFlyer member and enjoy complimentary in-flight WiFi. For best fares and seats to suit head to singaporeair.com 

Mike Yardley is our resident traveller on Jack Tame Saturday Mornings.