India Itineraries

India is an incredible country that is too vast and complex to explore in one trip. It is wiser to focus on one, two or perhaps three regions, depending on your time frame. The following India itineraries showcase both the classic sights and lesser-known gems of different regions, from the icy heights of the Himalayas to the sultry tropical waters of Kerala.

Itinerary planning tips from Ravi: your India travel expert

India, a country of diverse cultures, landscapes, and history, offers an array of experiences - from the majestic Himalayas in the north to the serene waters of Kerala in the south.

Many travelers opt for guided India tours to experience the country's key cultural and historical sites.

Our local travel expert Ravi says, “India is not just a destination, it is a vibrant tapestry of experiences waiting to be discovered. With our tailor-made trips, you get more than just a vacation; you are embarking on a journey created just for you.

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Ravi

Tips from Ravi

India Travel Expert

quotes

"Putting together an itinerary for India is a fascinating journey in itself, and if you take the time to take a thoughtful and well-planned itinerary, you can get all the benefits of experiencing the diverse and vibrant culture of this country."

If you are planning your travel to India, use these itineraries created by our travel experts as a starting point for inspiration.

Looking for an India itinerary by duration? 10 days - 14 days

7 day India itinerary

This 7-day India itinerary strikes the perfect balance between cultural immersion and breathtaking scenery.

Spend days 1 and 2 in Delhi, where you can see historic landmarks such as the Red Fort and Qutub Minar, visit bustling markets, and sample local delicacies.

On day 3, travel to Agra. Here you will admire the Taj Mahal, visit the Agra Fort, and then have the unique experience of watching the sunset over the Taj from Mehtab Bagh.

Travel to Jaipur, where you will experience the grandeur of the Amber Fort, the City Palace, the Hawa Mahal, and the bustling bazaars on day 4.

Day 5 is dedicated to Udaipur. Explore the City Palace, take a boat ride on Lake Pichola, and relax in the picturesque gardens.

Take an exciting safari to Ranthambhore National Park, where Bengal tigers roam, and visit the historic Ranthambhore Fort on day 6, and on day 7 return to Delhi for some last-minute shopping, relaxation, and one last taste of the city's charms before you depart.

Interested? Contact us and start planning your Indian adventure now.

Taj Mahal and Agra © Shutterstock

Taj Mahal, India

10-day India itinerary

A 10-day itinerary in India offers a more in-depth introduction to vibrant cities, historic sites, and tranquil landscapes.

Spend the first two days in Delhi. Stroll through the vibrant markets of Chandni Chowk and Connaught Place and enjoy a variety of street food.

Next, you will proceed to Agra where a whole bunch of new experiences await you. Don't miss the mesmerizing sunset view of the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh.

You will travel to Jaipur where you will visit the majestic Amber Fort, the elegant City Palace, and the stunning Hawa Mahal on day 4. Visit the bustling bazaars and take the chance to sample traditional Rajasthani cuisine.

You will linger in Jaipur for one more day and then you will be flown to Cochin (Kochi) in Kerala for day 6.

Day 7 includes a drive to Munnar, a picturesque hill station. Here you will spend two days and feel the striking peacefulness of this place amidst lush tea gardens.

On the 9th day, you will travel to Alleppey (Alappuzha) for a boat cruise on the backwaters of Kerala, and on the last 10th day, you will return to Cochin.

Kerala backwaters houseboat, India © Shutterstock

Kerala backwaters houseboat, India © Shutterstock

14-day India itinerary

The 14-day India itinerary offers a rich exploration of vibrant cities, historic sites, and serene landscapes.

You'll spend days 1 and 2 in Mumbai, where you can visit the iconic Gateway of India, explore the Elephanta Caves, and stroll along Marine Drive.

Day 3 includes a trip to Udaipur. Here you can see the stunning City Palace, take a boat ride on Lake Pichola, and visit the beautiful Jag Mandir.

On day 4, you will continue your exploration of Udaipur and day 5 involves a trip to Jaisalmer, known as the Golden City. Day 6 includes a trip to the Sam Sand Dunes near Jaisalmer. Take a camel safari and admire the mesmerizing sunset over the dunes, followed by a traditional Rajasthani dinner.

On day 7, you will travel to Agra to admire the legendary Taj Mahal and tour the Agra Fort. On day 8, you will travel to Orchha where you can explore the stunning Orchha Fort complex and visit the Chaturbhuj Temple.

Days 9 and 10 are dedicated to Khajuraho. Spend two days exploring the UNESCO World Heritage temples, including the Kandariya Mahadev Temple and Lakshmana Temple.

Day 11 includes a flight to Varanasi, one of India's oldest cities. Experience the spiritual atmosphere along the Ganges River and witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony.

On day 12, you will travel to Kolkata. Visit the Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, and the Indian Museum while enjoying the city's colonial architecture and vibrant street life.

You will spend days 13 and 14 in Darjeeling, a charming hill station. Enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas, take a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, and visit the Peace Pagoda and local tea gardens.

Darjeeling, himalayan railway, India © ALensAndSomeLuck/Shutterstock

Darjeeling, Himalayan Railway, India © ALensAndSomeLuck/Shutterstock

Best time to vacation in India

The best time to visit most of India is during the cool dry season, from November to March. Delhi, Agra, Varanasi, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh are ideal at this time of year, while temperatures in Goa and central India remain comfortable.

In the south, the heat is never less than intense, but in May and June, it becomes stifling. Try to visit Tamil Nadu and Kerala between January and March.

However, from March onwards, the Himalayas become more accessible to trekkers. Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, as well as southern Kerala, get a second irrigation between October and December

During this time, the 'northwest' or 'receding' monsoon arrives from the Bay of Bengal. By December, clear skies and relatively cool temperatures set in over much of the subcontinent.

  • India
  • Kerala
  • Delhi
  • Mumbai
  • Udaipur
  • Jaipur
  • Agra
Olga Sitnitsa

written by
Olga Sitnitsa

updated 30.08.2024

Online editor at Rough Guides, specialising in travel content. Passionate about creating compelling stories and inspiring others to explore the world.

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