India

Western Deserts & North

Explore the Capital City of New Delhi

  • Visit India Gate, a war memorial.
  • Explore Humayun's Tomb, a precursor to the Taj Mahal.
  • Wander through the Qutub Minar complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Experience the bustling Chandni Chowk market in Old Delhi.
  • Visit the Lotus Temple, a Baháʼí House of Worship.
  • Explore the Red Fort (Lal Qila), a historic Mughal fort.

Witness the Majesty of Agra (Uttar Pradesh)

  • Marvel at the iconic Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of love.
  • Explore the Agra Fort, another significant Mughal fort.
  • Visit Fatehpur Sikri, a deserted Mughal city (day trip).
  • Discover Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb (Baby Taj).
  • Experience the local arts and crafts.

Explore the Pink City of Jaipur (Rajasthan)

  • Visit the iconic Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds).
  • Explore the Amber Fort and enjoy an elephant ride.
  • Wander through the City Palace and its museums.
  • Discover the astronomical observatory of Jantar Mantar (UNESCO World Heritage site).
  • Shop for colorful textiles and handicrafts in the local bazaars.

Experience the Romance of Udaipur (Rajasthan)

  • Take a boat ride on Lake Pichola and see the Lake Palace and Jag Mandir.
  • Visit the City Palace overlooking the lake.
  • Explore the Jagdish Temple and the Saheliyon-ki-Bari (Garden of the Maids).
  • Wander through the narrow streets and art galleries.
  • Enjoy traditional Rajasthani music and dance performances.

Discover the Blue City of Jodhpur (Rajasthan)

  • Visit the formidable Mehrangarh Fort perched on a hilltop.
  • Explore the Jaswant Thada, a stunning white marble cenotaph.
  • Wander through the narrow blue-washed streets of the old city.
  • Visit the Umaid Bhawan Palace, part museum and part hotel.
  • Experience the local culture and cuisine.

Explore the Golden City of Jaisalmer (Rajasthan)

  • Visit the living fort of Jaisalmer, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Explore the intricate Jain temples within the fort.
  • Take a camel safari into the Thar Desert.
  • Visit the Havelis (mansions) with their intricate carvings.
  • Experience a cultural evening with music and dance under the stars.

Explore the Bustling Metropolis of Mumbai (Maharashtra)

  • Visit the iconic Gateway of India.
  • Take a walk along Marine Drive.
  • Explore the historic Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus), a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Visit the Elephanta Caves, known for their rock-cut sculptures (accessible by ferry).
  • Experience the vibrant street food scene and Bollywood culture.

Discover the Heritage and Culture of Ahmedabad (Gujarat)

  • Explore the Sabarmati Ashram, Mahatma Gandhi's former residence.
  • Wander through the pols (traditional neighborhoods) of the old city, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Visit the Jama Masjid and Sidi Saiyyed Mosque with its intricate stone lattice work.
  • Explore the Calico Museum of Textiles, showcasing India's rich textile heritage.
  • Savor the unique flavors of Gujarati cuisine.

Experience the Unique Landscape of the Rann of Kutch (Gujarat)

  • Witness the vast expanse of the white salt desert, especially during the Rann Utsav (festival).
  • Visit the traditional villages and experience the local Kutchi culture and handicrafts.
  • Explore the Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary.
  • See the sunset over the surreal landscape.

Discover the Coastal Charm of Diu (Union Territory)

  • Explore the Diu Fort, offering panoramic sea views.
  • Relax on the beaches like Nagoa Beach and Jallandhar Beach.
  • Visit the St. Paul's Church and other Portuguese-era architecture.
  • Explore the INS Khukri Memorial.
  • Visit the Chakratirth Beach and the Shell Museum.

Peninsular South

Discover the Beaches and Portuguese History of Goa

  • Relax on popular beaches like Baga, Calangute, and Anjuna (North Goa).
  • Explore the quieter beaches of South Goa like Palolem and Agonda.
  • Visit the UNESCO World Heritage churches of Old Goa, such as the Basilica of Bom Jesus.
  • Explore the Portuguese-era forts like Fort Aguada.
  • Rejuvenate with yoga and meditation retreats and classes available across the region.
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife and flea markets.

Experience the Backwaters of Kerala (Various Locations)

  • Take a relaxing houseboat cruise through the serene backwaters of Alleppey (Alappuzha).
  • Explore the scenic waterways and lagoons of Kumarakom.
  • Witness the traditional Kathakali dance performances.
  • Enjoy authentic Kerala cuisine, especially fresh seafood.
  • Visit the spice plantations and learn about the region's spices.

Discover the Temples and Culture of Tamil Nadu (Various Locations)

  • Marvel at the Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai, known for its vibrant gopurams (towers).
  • Explore the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Visit the Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram, an ancient rock-cut temple complex by the sea.
  • Experience the classical Bharatanatyam dance form.
  • Savor the unique flavors of Tamil cuisine.

Explore the IT Hub and Gardens of Bengaluru (Karnataka)

  • Visit the Bangalore Palace, inspired by Windsor Castle.
  • Stroll through the beautiful Lalbagh Botanical Garden.
  • Explore the Vidhana Soudha, the seat of the state legislature.
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife and culinary scene.
  • Visit the Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace.

Discover the Historical City of Hyderabad (Telangana)

  • Visit the iconic Charminar, a historic monument and symbol of Hyderabad.
  • Explore the Golconda Fort, a magnificent historic fort with acoustic wonders.
  • Wander through the Chowmahalla Palace, the seat of the Asaf Jahi dynasty.
  • Savor the famous Hyderabadi biryani.
  • Visit the Salar Jung Museum, housing a diverse collection of artifacts.

Escape to the Hill Station of Munnar (Kerala)

  • Wander through the lush green tea plantations that carpet the hills.
  • Visit the Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India.
  • Explore the Eravikulam National Park, home to the Nilgiri Tahr.
  • Enjoy the scenic beauty of Attukad Waterfalls and Mattupetty Dam.
  • Experience the aroma of fresh spices at the local spice gardens.

Discover the Charm of Pondicherry (Union Territory)

  • Stroll through the French Quarter with its colonial architecture and tree-lined streets.
  • Visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual community.
  • Relax on the Promenade Beach.
  • Explore the experimental township of Auroville.
  • Savor French-inspired cuisine at the local cafes and restaurants.

Explore the Historical City of Mysuru (Karnataka)

  • Visit the magnificent Mysore Palace, the former seat of the Wodeyar dynasty.
  • Wander through the vibrant Devaraja Market.
  • Explore the Chamundeshwari Temple atop Chamundi Hills.
  • Visit the Brindavan Gardens with its musical fountain.
  • Learn about the history and art at the Mysore Rail Museum.

Eastern Plains & Coast​​

Discover the Cultural Heart of Kolkata (West Bengal)

  • Explore the colonial-era architecture around Dalhousie Square (B.B.D. Bagh).
  • Visit the iconic Victoria Memorial Hall, a grand marble monument.
  • Wander through the vibrant New Market (Hogg Market) for a sensory experience.
  • Experience the spiritual atmosphere of the Kalighat Kali Temple.
  • Take a boat ride on the Hooghly River and see the Howrah Bridge.
  • Immerse yourself in art and literature at the Academy of Fine Arts and the numerous bookshops.

Explore the Ancient Temples of Bhubaneswar (Odisha)

  • Marvel at the intricate carvings of the Lingaraj Temple, one of the oldest temples in the city.
  • Visit the Mukteswar Temple, known for its beautiful torana (gateway).
  • Explore the Raja Rani Temple with its graceful sculptures.
  • Discover the Odisha State Museum to learn about the region's history and art.
  • Wander through the Ekamra Haat, a crafts market showcasing local artistry.

Discover the Coastal Charms of Puri (Odisha)

  • Visit the Jagannath Temple, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites (non-Hindus may have limited access inside).
  • Relax on the sandy beaches along the Bay of Bengal.
  • Witness the vibrant Rath Yatra (chariot festival) if visiting during June-July.
  • Explore the local markets selling handicrafts and religious artifacts.
  • Visit the nearby Chilika Lake, Asia's largest brackish water lagoon, known for its birdlife.

Experience the Historical Significance of Patna (Bihar)

  • Visit the Patna Museum to see artifacts from the Mauryan and Gupta empires.
  • Explore the Golghar, a large granary built by the British.
  • Witness the Sikh pilgrimage site of Takht Sri Patna Sahib.
  • Wander through the old city areas, experiencing the local life.
  • Take a boat ride on the Ganges River.

Discover the Buddhist Pilgrimage Site of Bodh Gaya (Bihar)

  • Visit the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site marking the spot where Buddha attained enlightenment.
  • Meditate under the Bodhi Tree, the descendant of the original tree.
  • Explore the numerous international monasteries and temples built in various architectural styles.
  • Witness the spiritual rituals and practices of Buddhist pilgrims from around the world.
  • Visit the Great Buddha Statue and other significant Buddhist sites in the area.

Explore the Natural Wonders of the Sundarbans (West Bengal)

  • Embark on a boat safari through the world's largest mangrove forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Try to spot the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger and other wildlife like spotted deer and crocodiles.
  • Explore the intricate network of rivers, creeks, and islands.
  • Visit watchtowers like Sajnekhali and Sudhanyakhali for wildlife viewing.

Experience the Tribal Culture of Ranchi (Jharkhand)

  • Visit the Jharkhand Tribal Research Institute & Museum to learn about the state's diverse tribal communities.
  • Explore the Jagannath Temple, a replica of the Puri Jagannath Temple.
  • Witness the Hundru Falls, one of the many scenic waterfalls around Ranchi.
  • Visit Rock Garden, a unique garden carved out of rocks.

Discover the Coastal City of Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh)

  • Relax on the popular Ramakrishna Beach (RK Beach).
  • Visit the INS Kursura Submarine Museum.
  • Explore the Kailasagiri Park with its panoramic views and Shiva statue.
  • Discover the ancient Buddhist sites of Borra Caves and Thotlakonda.
  • Enjoy the scenic drive along the Eastern Ghats towards Araku Valley.

Discover the Ancient Temples of Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh)

  • Explore the UNESCO World Heritage temples known for their intricate and explicit sculptures.
  • Visit the Western Group of Temples, including Kandariya Mahadeva Temple.
  • Discover the Eastern and Southern Groups of Temples, showcasing a variety of architectural styles.
  • Attend the Sound and Light Show that narrates the history of the Chandela dynasty.

Himalayan North

Experience the Beauty of Kashmir (Jammu & Kashmir)

  • Take a shikara ride on the serene Dal Lake in Srinagar.
  • Visit the Mughal Gardens (Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, Chashme Shahi) known for their beauty.
  • Explore the old city of Srinagar with its mosques and traditional architecture.
  • Enjoy the scenic gondola ride in Gulmarg, offering stunning mountain views.
  • Visit the picturesque valleys of Sonmarg and Pahalgam.

Discover the Adventure Hub of Himachal Pradesh (Various Locations)

  • Explore the popular hill station of Shimla with its colonial-era architecture.
  • Go trekking in the scenic valleys of Manali and Kullu.
  • Visit the Tibetan monasteries in McLeod Ganj (near Dharamshala).
  • Experience paragliding in Bir-Billing, known as the paragliding capital of India.
  • Enjoy the toy train ride from Kalka to Shimla, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Experience the Spiritual Serenity of Uttarakhand (Various Locations)

  • Visit the holy cities of Haridwar and Rishikesh along the Ganges River.
  • Practice yoga and meditation in the spiritual atmosphere of Rishikesh.
  • Explore the Jim Corbett National Park, known for its tiger population.
  • Enjoy the scenic beauty of hill stations like Nainital and Mussoorie.
  • Undertake treks in the Garhwal Himalayas.

Explore the Spiritual Haven of Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj (Himachal Pradesh)

  • Visit the residence of the Dalai Lama and the Tsuglagkhang Temple.
  • Immerse yourself in Tibetan culture and traditions.
  • Enjoy scenic hikes to places like Triund.
  • Explore the Bhagsu Waterfall and the Shiva Cafe.
  • Take a stroll through the vibrant markets filled with Tibetan handicrafts.

Discover the Unique Culture of Ladakh

  • Visit the monasteries (gompas) around Leh, such as Hemis and Thiksey.
  • Explore the stunning Pangong Tso and Nubra Valley with its sand dunes and Bactrian camels.
  • Experience the unique blend of Tibetan and Indian culture.
  • Enjoy the stark beauty of the high-altitude desert landscapes.
  • Try adventure activities like trekking and white-water rafting.

Experience the Offbeat Charm of Sikkim

  • Visit the monasteries in Gangtok, like Enchey Monastery.
  • Enjoy breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga, the world's third-highest peak.
  • Explore the beautiful Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass (permits required).
  • Experience the unique blend of Nepali, Bhutia, and Lepcha cultures.
  • Trek through the scenic landscapes and rhododendron forests.

Discover the Serene Valleys of Spiti (Himachal Pradesh)

  • Visit ancient monasteries like Key Monastery and Tabo Monastery.
  • Experience the stark beauty of the cold desert landscape.
  • Explore high-altitude villages like Kaza and Kibber.
  • Enjoy trekking opportunities in the Spiti Valley.
  • Witness the stunning Chandratal Lake.

Discover the Tea Gardens and Wildlife of Assam

  • Visit the sprawling tea estates of Assam and learn about tea production.
  • Explore Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its one-horned rhinoceros.
  • Take a cruise on the Brahmaputra River.
  • Experience the unique Bihu festivals.

Explore the Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya

  • Witness the unique living root bridges in Cherrapunji and Mawlynnong.
  • Visit Mawlynnong, known as the cleanest village in Asia.
  • Explore the numerous waterfalls, including Nohkalikai Falls.
  • Discover the sacred groves and limestone caves.

Suggested Travel Itinerary

India - 16 Weeks

Days 1-6: Delhi

  • Explore Old Delhi's Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the grand Jama Masjid.
  • Wander through the bustling spice market of Chandni Chowk and sample local street food.
  • Discover New Delhi's India Gate, a war memorial, and Humayun's Tomb, a precursor to the Taj Mahal.
  • Visit the towering Qutub Minar and the modern architectural marvel of the Lotus Temple.
  • Explore the National Museum and Lodhi Gardens.
  • Visit the Akshardham Temple.

Days 7-10: Agra & Fatehpur Sikri

  • Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Taj Mahal at sunrise and sunset in Agra.
  • Explore the historical Agra Fort, showcasing Mughal power and artistry.
  • Discover the well-preserved Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri, including Buland Darwaza.

Days 11-17: Jaipur

  • Explore Jaipur's majestic Amber Fort, with an optional elephant ride to the entrance.
  • Witness the intricate facade of Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) and explore the City Palace museum.
  • Visit the astronomical observatory of Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO site in Jaipur.
  • Wander through the vibrant bazaars for textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts.
  • Optional: Visit the Albert Hall Museum or take a traditional Rajasthani cooking class.

Days 18-23: Jodhpur

  • Explore Jodhpur's formidable Mehrangarh Fort and visit the Jaswant Thada cenotaph.
  • Wander through the maze-like blue-washed streets of Jodhpur's old city.
  • Take a desert safari to nearby villages.

Days 24-28: Jaisalmer

  • Experience the unique living fort of Jaisalmer and its Jain temples.
  • Embark on a camel safari into the undulating sand dunes of the Thar Desert.
  • Admire the intricate carvings of the Havelis (merchant mansions) like Patwon ki Haveli.
  • Optional: Enjoy a cultural performance in the desert.

Days 29-31: Pushkar

  • Explore the sacred Pushkar Lake and visit the Brahma Temple.
  • Witness the captivating evening Aarti ceremony on the ghats of Pushkar Lake.
  • Wander through the colorful bazaars around the lake.

Days 32-39: Kerala (Kochi & Munnar)

  • Explore Fort Kochi with its iconic Chinese fishing nets and historic St. Francis Church.
  • Immerse yourself in a captivating Kathakali dance performance showcasing traditional storytelling.
  • Discover the sprawling tea plantations and scenic hills of Munnar, visiting the Tea Museum.
  • Explore Eravikulam National Park in Munnar, home to the Nilgiri Tahr.
  • Take a spice plantation tour or enjoy a boat ride on Mattupetty Dam.

Days 40-43: Kerala (Alleppey & Varkala)

  • Enjoy a serene houseboat cruise through the backwaters of Alleppey, observing local life.
  • Relax on the golden beaches and dramatic cliffs of Varkala.
  • Consider indulging in an authentic Ayurvedic massage for rejuvenation.

Days 44-49: Tamil Nadu (Madurai & Chettinad)

  • Explore the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai, a stunning example of Dravidian architecture.
  • Discover the unique architecture, vibrant cuisine, and antique markets of the Chettinad region.
  • Visit the Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal in Madurai.

Days 50-53: Tamil Nadu (Thanjavur & Pondicherry)

  • Visit the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, a UNESCO World Heritage site and Chola masterpiece.
  • Experience the charming French Quarter of Pondicherry and relax on Promenade Beach.
  • Visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram and the experimental township of Auroville in Pondicherry.

Days 54-58: Karnataka (Mysuru & Coorg)

  • Explore the opulent Mysore Palace, the former seat of the Wodeyar dynasty.
  • Visit the Chamundeshwari Temple atop Chamundi Hills for panoramic views of Mysuru.
  • Discover the lush coffee plantations, spice estates, and scenic hills of Coorg (Kodagu).
  • Visit Abbey Falls and Raja's Seat for beautiful viewpoints in Coorg.

Days 59-62: Hampi (Karnataka)

  • Explore the stunning ruins of Vijayanagara, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Visit the iconic Virupaksha Temple and the Royal Enclosure.
  • Marvel at the stone chariot at Vittala Temple complex.

Days 63-68: Goa

  • Relax on the popular beaches of North Goa like Baga and Calangute.
  • Explore the historical churches and Portuguese architecture of Old Goa, a UNESCO site, including the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Sé Cathedral.
  • Unwind on the quieter beaches of South Goa such as Palolem and Agonda.
  • Consider a guided tour of a local spice plantation to learn about Goa's fragrant spices.
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife in areas like Baga and Anjuna, explore the Wednesday Flea Market at Anjuna, and savor the fresh seafood cuisine.

Days 69-73: Hyderabad

  • Explore the iconic Charminar and learn about its history.
  • Visit the magnificent Golconda Fort and understand its acoustics and architecture.
  • Discover the opulent palaces of the Nizams, such as Chowmahalla Palace.
  • Explore the extensive collection of artifacts at the Salar Jung Museum.
  • Indulge in the flavorful Hyderabadi biryani and other local delicacies.

Days 74-78: Kolkata

  • Explore historical landmarks like the Victoria Memorial and Howrah Bridge.
  • Wander through the bustling New Market and College Street.
  • Visit the Indian Museum and Dakshineswar Kali Temple.
  • Experience a traditional Bengali cultural performance.

Days 79-82: The Sundarbans

  • Embark on boat safaris through the intricate waterways of the Sundarbans.
  • Try to spot the elusive Bengal tiger and other wildlife.
  • Experience the unique ecosystem of the mangrove forests.

Days 83-89: Sikkim

  • Explore Gangtok, visiting monasteries like Rumtek and Enchey.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Kanchenjunga from viewpoints near Pelling.
  • Discover the alpine lakes and rhododendron sanctuaries of North Sikkim (requires permits).
  • Experience the unique culture and traditions of the Sikkimese people.
  • Optional: Take a trek to explore the Himalayan landscapes.

Days 90-95: Meghalaya

  • Trek to the unique living root bridges near Cherrapunji and Mawlynnong.
  • Witness the breathtaking Nohkalikai Falls and other waterfalls.
  • Explore the sacred groves and limestone caves like Mawsmai Cave.
  • Visit Mawlynnong, considered one of the cleanest villages in Asia.
  • Enjoy the stunning natural beauty and waterfalls around Shillong.

Days 96-100: Varanasi

  • Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony in the evening.
  • Take a serene boat ride on the Ganges River at sunrise.
  • Explore the labyrinthine alleyways and numerous temples.
  • Visit Sarnath, a significant Buddhist site where the Buddha gave his first sermon.
  • Experience the unique spiritual atmosphere of this ancient city.
  • Attend a yoga or meditation session.

Days 101-106: Mumbai

  • Explore iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus.
  • Experience the bustling street life and markets such as Crawford Market and Colaba Causeway.
  • Consider a visit to the Elephanta Caves with its ancient rock-cut temples.
  • Walk along Marine Drive and Chowpatty Beach.
  • Explore the art and cultural scene, perhaps visiting museums or galleries.
  • Take a Bollywood studio tour or visit the Dharavi slum for a different perspective.