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.