If you’re planning a trip to India and want to make the most of a week, I’ve got you covered. India is a huge country with so much to see, but this 7-day itinerary will give you a balanced taste of its diverse landscapes, rich history, and incredible culture. You’re going to experience ancient temples, bustling cities, serene landscapes, and delicious food!
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Delhi
Start your journey in India’s capital: Delhi. You’ll land at Indira Gandhi International Airport, and after checking into your hotel, head out for some introductory sightseeing.
What to see
Visit Humayun’s Tomb first. This Mughal monument is a precursor to the Taj Mahal and has beautiful gardens to stroll around. Next, check out India Gate, an iconic war memorial.
Where to eat
If you want a classic Delhi experience, head to Old Delhi and stop by Karim’s. It’s famous for its Mughlai food. Try the mutton kebabs or the butter chicken.
Tips
Auto-rickshaws are a fun way to explore the local streets. Just be prepared to negotiate the price before starting your ride.
Day 2: Full Day in Delhi
Today is all about immersing yourself in the history and culture of Delhi. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes because there’s a lot to cover.
What to see
Start your day at the Red Fort. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for history lovers. Then, head over to the Jama Masjid, one of India’s largest mosques. If you want to take in some local culture, stroll through Chandni Chowk right nearby.
In the afternoon, head to Qutub Minar, a massive, ancient tower. It’s another UNESCO site and has beautiful carvings on its sandstone façade.
Where to eat
Try a thali for lunch at Saravana Bhavan. It’s a small sampling of different vegetarian Indian dishes and it’ll fill you right up!
Tips
Traffic in Delhi can be overwhelming, so leave early for your destinations if you’re going by taxi or rickshaw.
Day 3: Travel to Agra – The Taj Mahal
It’s time to leave Delhi behind and head to Agra. Take an early-morning train or hire a private car. It’s about a 4-hour journey from Delhi to Agra.
What to see
Your first stop has to be the Taj Mahal. Go early to beat the crowds and take in the beauty of this world wonder. The marble structure changes colors as the sunlight hits it; it’s really special to witness.
Later, visit Agra Fort. This red sandstone fort is huge, and the views from inside are fantastic. You can even see the Taj Mahal from some points within the fort, which is a cool perspective.
Where to eat
Stop by Pinch of Spice for lunch. It’s a popular restaurant among tourists, and they’re known for their North Indian dishes.
Tips
Agra can get hot, so carry water with you. Also, wear shoes you can easily take off if you plan to enter different sections of the Taj Mahal or temples.
Day 4: Jaipur – The Pink City
Next up is Jaipur. Travel from Agra to Jaipur, which takes around 5 hours by car or train. Once you arrive, settle into your hotel and get ready to explore the capital of Rajasthan.
What to see
Start with Amber Fort, located a little outside of the city. You’ll find yourself mesmerized by the intricate Rajasthani architecture and sweeping views of the surrounding hills.
Next, visit the City Palace for a peek into Royal Rajput life. The museum inside has some cool exhibits, from weapons to traditional costumes.
Where to eat
After a long day of exploration, treat yourself to a rooftop dinner at Peacock Restaurant. The view over the city is great, and they have a nice range of Indian dishes.
Tips
Jaipur is known for its textiles and jewelry. If you’re up for shopping, head to Johari Bazaar for some traditional Rajasthani items.
Day 5: Jaipur – More Sightseeing
Today is about soaking in more of Jaipur’s charm. The city is filled with colorful buildings, lively markets, and history in every corner.
What to see
Start with Hawa Mahal, the “Palace of Winds.” This pink building is a key landmark in Jaipur with hundreds of windows, built for the royal women to watch street processions without being seen.
After that, visit Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory filled with enormous stone instruments. It’s fascinating, even if you’re not into astronomy. You can also see world’s largest sundial here.
Where to eat
Catch a late lunch at Lakshmi Mishthan Bhandar. It’s famous for traditional Rajasthani food and sweets.
Tips
Make time to relax. Rajasthan can be hot in the afternoon, and Jaipur has plenty of cafes to sit back and enjoy a chai.
Day 6: Jodhpur – The Blue City
Get ready for a change of scenery as you travel to Jodhpur, a place known for its blue-painted houses and imposing Mehrangarh Fort. It’s about 5-6 hours by car or train from Jaipur.
What to see
Mehrangarh Fort is the biggest attraction here. The fort stands tall over the city, and the views from the top are incredible. You can practically see the entire blue city!
In the afternoon, visit Jaswant Thada, which is a serene white-marble monument. It’s much quieter than the fort and provides a nice escape from the bustling city.
Where to eat
Try dinner at Indique Restaurant, which offers a rooftop dining experience with a direct view of the fort. It’s a bit of a splurge, but the views make it totally worth it.
Tips
Jodhpur’s markets are great places to pick up spices or handwoven textiles. Clock Tower Market is a must if you want to shop.
Day 7: Jodhpur to Udaipur
On your last day, head to Udaipur, another jewel in Rajasthan’s crown. Udaipur is often called the “City of Lakes” due to its stunning lakes and palaces. It’s a 5-hour drive from Jodhpur.
What to see
Visit the famous City Palace, which sits right on Lake Pichola. The palace complex is massive and includes over 10 individual structures.
Take a boat ride on Lake Pichola for sunset. The views of the surrounding hills, palaces, and temples from the water are unforgettable.
Where to eat
To finish off your trip, have a lakeside dinner at Ambrai. The mood is serene, and you’ll get gorgeous views of the City Palace across the water.
Tips
Udaipur is one of the more relaxed cities in India. Take your time enjoying its calmer pace before catching your flight out.
Final Thoughts
This itinerary gives you a taste of India’s history, culture, and beautiful landscapes without feeling rushed. Each destination offers something different, from the majestic Taj Mahal to the vibrant streets of Jaipur and the lakes of Udaipur. Travel between cities can be tiring, but don’t worry; you’ll have plenty of time to relax and enjoy the sites. India’s charm tends to grow on you – so take it all in, and embrace every moment!
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