India Travel Guide: India, A country of endless cultures, ages, and astounding sceneries, India calls upon travelers far and wide to explore. From the chaotic lanes of Delhi to the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, every region serves a sci-fi-ish representation of India’s colorful diversity. And will take you on a 10-day journey through some of the gems this amazing country has to offer.
Day 1-2: Delhi – Capital City Syndrome
Day 1: Arrival in Delhi
1, Delhi: Your first exposure to India is the dynamic Delhi, a city that reflects a rich metaphors of the past with contemporary lifestyle. After you land at Indira Gandhi International Airport, you are likely to feel the best of city life; After we arrive if you have time you are going to check in at the hotel, relax or discover the surroundings of a local sight to see.
Day 2: Old Delhi, New Delhi
Explore Delhi A jaunt through Old Delhi leaves you walking down the history-ridden lanes of the city. Day 1 — Pay a morning visit to Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India followed by a rickshaw ride in the alleys of Chandni Chowk, one of the oldest and busiest markets in Delhi. The narrow alleys are lined with stalls hawking everything from spices to jewelry, creating a rich tapestry of noise, color and aroma.
Spend the afternoon wide boulevards of the more modern sections of New Delhi. Starting from India Gate (a war memorial to the Indian soldiers who died in WWI), move on to have a look at the grand Rashtrapati Bhavan (the official residence of the President of India) and Parliament House, all located in close proximity. Humayun’s Tomb: A mere 10 minute drive from Qutub Minar is the UNESCO World Heritage site and the earlier masterpiece of Mughal architecture, Humayun’s Tomb, which inspired the Taj Mahal.
Day 3-4: Agra – The Taj Mahal
Agra is just 4 hours away from New Delhi by road and is another ancient city that houses the one of the seven wonders of the world, The Taj Mahal.
Day 3: Delhi to Agra
Post breakfast leave for Agra a city where a surreal time freezes, the history of India comes alive and world-famous symbols of love are sculpted in stone – The City of Taj. The road journey will take 3-4 hours. Once you get there, you will check in to the hotel and be ready to unwind before starting your city visit.
Later in the day visit the incomparable Taj Mahal.) This beautiful marble mausoleum was built by Emperor Shah Jahan to house the tomb of his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Watch as the monument turns a soft golden colour as the light changes ready for the sunset – it is truly lovely.
DAY 4: Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri
Step out to commence your day tour, your first visit will be Agra Fort, one of the most impressive and haunting fortresses of Mughal Empire. Admire its grand palaces, mosques and gardens, and sit back for panoramic views of the Taj Mahal from acrossthe Yamuna River.
Later in the afternoon, drive to Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a perfectly preserved Mughal city built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century. After lunch, explore the red sandstone buildings, including Jama Masjid and the stunning Panch Mahal. Think about the historical heyday of this now-forlorn city before continuing back to Agra for an overnight retreat.
Days 5 & 6: Jaipur – The Pink City
Day 5: Agra to Jaipur
Depart from Agra after breakfast and drive to Jaipur, capital of the vibrant state of Rajasthan, a notable example of a city painted pink, referred to as the Pink City. En route/on way visit to the ghost town of Abhaneri, to see the amazing 8-9th century’s step well of Abhaneri and tour the castle of Daus of 17-18th century.
Upon reaching Jaipur, check into your hotel and relax. Visit the colorful markets of Jaipur in the evening which are famous for Textiles, Handicrafts, Gems and Jewellery. Sample the local Rajasthani cuisine at their local market, that are full of spices and have some of the unique preparations.
Day 6: Jaipur Sightseeing
Jaipur – the Royal Affair Commence your trip with a visit to the stunning hilltop Amber fort, which is perched on hills overlooking Maota Lake, early in the morning. You can either ride an elephant or you can go through a jeep ride to the main entrance to the fort and then further from and wander through grand palaces, charbagh gardens, Jai Pol, Vijay Stambh, Kirti Stambh and many more historical sites.
Return to Jaipur city for sightseeing which includes visit to the City Palace,a sprawling complex which houses museums, courtyards, and the iconic Chandra Mahal. Go visit the Jantar Mantar An astronomical observatory and UNESCO World Heritage Site with 19th-century instruments near by
Afternoon: Make a stop at the Hawa Mahal, literally the Palace of Winds, famous for its intricately latticed facade and beehive-like appearance. The day ends with the best in the Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar.It is the fair newly broke mirrors and the local Rajasthan hand crafts.
Day 7-8: Udaipur – Venice of East
Day 7: Jaipur to Udaipur
Fly: Udaipur (After breakfast you will take a flight to Udaipur known as Venice of the East) Located in the Aravalli Hills, Udaipur is well-known for its beautiful lakes, palaces, and the romantic vibe all around. After arriving in your hotel, spend the rest of the day relaxing at your hotel and seeing great views of Lake Pichola.
In the evening, enjoy a walk along the waters of Lake Pichola, as the calm blue waters carry the reflection of the grand City Palace under a moonlit sky, or even the glistening Lake Palace. Head to Ambrai Ghat to view the City Palace complex bathed in light as it stands against the setting sun
Day 8: Udaipur Sightseeing
Kickstart your day by visiting the grandees of the City Palace further holding its ground as a reminder of Udaipur’s royal past. Walk through its elaborately designed courtyards, galleries, and intricately carved balconies featuring murals of historical events.
Then go to the 17th century Jagdish Temple the center point of the Udaipur city shrine of Lord Vishnu. You can admire its Indo-Aryan architecture and its elaborate carvings before heading over to Saheliyon ki Bari, the Garden of Maidens, famous for its well-maintained fountains, lush foliage and pretty marble pavilions.
Afternoon boat ride on Lake Pichola to the Jag Mandir Palace, an island palace which served as refuge to Prince Khurram (who became Shah Jahan) of the Mughal Empire. Check out its lush gardens, pagodas, and beautiful architecture before heading back to mainland China.
Day 9-10: Kerala -A place abounded with backwaters and serenity
Day 9: Udaipur to Kochi
Get onto a flight from udaipur to Kochi, one of the bustling port cities in the southern state of Kerala. Having such a vibrant cultural history and strong colonial footprints by the port, Kochi has the perfect cocktail of history, art, and nature. Upon arrival at your hotel, spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure in the heart of the city, Fort Kochi.
Spend the evening witnessing the traditional art form of Kerala dance-drama Kathakali, displaying colorful costumes, face make-up, and poetic performance.
Day 10: Backwaters Experience
End your trip with a relaxing houseboat ride on the famous backwaters of Kerala, a labyrinth of shimmering waterways, rivers, lakes and lagoons, located along the coast. Instead board your houseboat and sail through palm fringed waterways passing by backwaters, lush green rice paddies, village and everday life.
Savour freshly cooked Kerala cuisine on board, which includes fish curry, coconut based foods and traditional sweets. Sightsee nature on one side or the other, Relax on the deck as the gentle boat cruises through the Still Backwaters of Living the scenes along the water edges.
Witness the sun set over the horizon, take in the stillness and remember the adventure you have experienced through India’s cultural treasures. Your 10-day tour will have come to an end and you will go back home with memories of timeless monuments, electric cities and the generous hospitality that makes India what it is.
Take a 7/10-day trip to India and explore its marvel by going through multiple cities offering a different kind of cultural, historical, and nature essence. Regardless of whether you are strolling through its historical forts, being spellbound by its architectural wonders, or cruising through its placid backwaters, India will promise you an experience of a lifetime and will do so with a sense of enchantment like no other.
