Last updated on March 1, 2025
A week-long trip to India can be an enriching experience, as it’s a country that offers a variety of landscapes, cultures, and activities that you won’t find anywhere else. Here’s an itinerary that takes you across diverse regions, from iconic landmarks to unique cultural experiences that are truly Indian.
Day 1: Arrival in Delhi – Explore the Capital
Morning:
Qutub Minar – Start your day with a visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s one of Delhi’s most iconic structures and a symbol of Mughal architecture.
Humayun’s Tomb – Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning tomb is an architectural precursor to the Taj Mahal.
Lunch:
Paranthe Wali Gali (Chandni Chowk) – Try different varieties of parathas, a must-try Delhi street food experience.
Afternoon:
Red Fort – Explore the grandeur of the Mughal era with this iconic fort in Old Delhi.
Jama Masjid – One of the largest mosques in India, offering spectacular views of the city.
Evening:
India Gate & Rajpath – Stroll along the India Gate, where you can also enjoy the bustling evening vibe of Delhi.
Dilli Haat – A crafts bazaar offering traditional Indian handicrafts from all over India.
Dinner:
Bukhara (ITC Maurya) – Try North Indian cuisine with specialties like Dal Bukhara and Tandoori meats.
Day 2: Agra – The Taj Mahal & Mughal Legacy
Morning:
Taj Mahal – A sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal is an unforgettable experience. Witness the changing colors of this magnificent marble structure.
Lunch:
Pinch of Spice (Agra) – A great place for Mughlai cuisine and local dishes.
Afternoon:
Agra Fort – Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this fort offers stunning views of the Taj Mahal and has a rich Mughal history.
Itmad-ud-Daula Tomb – Known as the “Baby Taj,” it’s a beautiful and often less crowded site compared to the main Taj Mahal.
Evening:
Mehtab Bagh – A peaceful garden on the opposite side of the Yamuna River with a perfect view of the Taj Mahal.
Dinner:
Shah Jahan Restaurant for authentic Mughlai food.
Day 3: Jaipur – The Pink City
Morning:
Amber Fort – Start your day with a visit to this majestic fort. Take an elephant ride or jeep ride to the top for incredible views of the city.
Lunch:
Laxmi Mishthan Bhandar (Johari Bazaar) – Try traditional Rajasthani dishes like dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and laal maas.
Afternoon:
City Palace – Explore the opulent City Palace and its museum, offering a peek into Rajasthan’s royal history.
Jantar Mantar – This ancient astronomical observatory has large instruments used to measure time and stars, built by Maharaja Jai Singh II.
Evening:
Hawa Mahal – The iconic “Palace of Winds” is perfect for an evening photo stop.
Bapu Bazaar – A great place to shop for traditional handicrafts, jewelry, and textiles.
Dinner:
Chokhi Dhani – An evening at this cultural village is a must. Enjoy Rajasthani folk dance, puppet shows, camel rides, and a traditional Rajasthani thali.
Day 4: Varanasi – Spiritual Awakening on the Ganges
Morning:
Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat – Start your day with an early morning boat ride on the Ganges to witness the spiritual Ganga Aarti, a captivating ritual with fire and chants.
Lunch:
Kashi Chat Bhandar – A great place for local Varanasi delicacies like tamatar chaat and kachori sabzi.
Afternoon:
Kashi Vishwanath Temple – Visit one of India’s most sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Manikarnika Ghat – Witness the ancient funeral rituals on the Ganges, an eye-opening experience that’s unique to India.
Evening:
Ramnagar Fort – Explore this lesser-known fort on the banks of the Ganges.
Dinner:
Tandoor Restaurant (Varanasi) for a more relaxed meal with North Indian specialties.
Day 5: Mumbai – The Heart of India
Morning:
Gateway of India – Visit this iconic structure by the sea, which marks the entrance of India for many international visitors.
Elephanta Caves – Take a boat ride from the Gateway of India to these fascinating caves with rock-cut temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Lunch:
Bademiya (Colaba) for delicious kebabs and rolls.
Afternoon:
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CST) – Marvel at the architectural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Marine Drive & Girgaon Chowpatty – Enjoy a walk along Marine Drive and unwind at the beach.
Evening:
Colaba Causeway for shopping, and then head to Kala Ghoda for a cultural walk through the artistic part of Mumbai.
Dinner:
The Bombay Canteen for modern Indian food with a twist.
Day 6: Kerala – Backwaters and Beach Vibes
Morning:
Alleppey Backwaters – Spend the morning in a houseboat floating through the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, surrounded by lush green landscapes.
Lunch:
On the houseboat, enjoy a traditional Kerala Sadya (feast) served on banana leaves with rice and various curries.
Afternoon:
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary – Explore this peaceful sanctuary, home to migratory birds, on the banks of Vembanad Lake.
Evening:
Varkala Beach – Head to Varkala for a peaceful evening by the beach. The cliff-side views are stunning as the sun sets over the Arabian Sea.
Dinner:
Seafood at Thiruvananthapuram or Varkala Beach shacks, where you can indulge in fresh catches like Karimeen (Pearl Spot) or crab.
Day 7: Return to Delhi / Optional Day Trip to Agra
If you have time, you can return to Delhi or explore Agra once more for a deeper experience of the Taj Mahal. Otherwise, you can relax at your hotel, enjoy a spa, or engage in last-minute shopping for souvenirs like Indian spices, textiles, or jewelry.
Must-Do Things in India:
Try Street Food: Each region has its own famous street food. Delhi (Parathas, Chaat), Varanasi (Chaat, Kachori), Mumbai (Pav Bhaji, Bhel Puri), and Rajasthan (Dal Baati Churma).
Traditional Indian Dance and Music: Attend a local classical dance or music performance (Kathak, Bharatnatyam, or a folk dance).
Ayurvedic Spa or Massage: Kerala is known for its traditional Ayurvedic treatments.
Yoga: Join a morning yoga session by the Ganges in Varanasi for a spiritual experience.
India is an incredibly diverse country, and each state offers a different experience. This itinerary balances cultural exploration, natural beauty, spiritual awakening, and the opportunity to experience some of the most iconic traditions and foods in India. Enjoy your journey!
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