Looking for an itinerary that captures the essence of India and lets a first-time visitor grasp the soul of the country even with a limited time? Your search ends here. We have crafted a perfect north India itinerary for beginners. Our itinerary for north India covers all the highlights of north India and you can easily customize it (certain tweaks) to suit your needs.
PS: This north India trip itinerary perfectly fits travelers who’ve 10 days in north India. If you have 7 days in north India, you can refer to our Golden Triangle itinerary.
Learn More: Best Places to Visit in India
North India Travel Itinerary Map
10 Days in North India Itinerary
It can be daunting to decide where to start as a first-timer in India. You can’t expect to see the country in a week or two or even a month as a lifetime is less to explore a nation as huge and diverse as India. Most of the travelers coming to India from around the world plan to explore northern India as this region with its world-famous historic sights and attractions gives a perfect introduction to India. It gives you a good feel of the authentic cultures and traditions of India.
Read More: Best Places to Visit in Asia
Day 0: Arrive in Delhi | Day at Leisure
Any trip to India inadvertently starts in the capital of India, Delhi because it’s extremely well connected with almost all the major countries and cities across the world. All major airlines have their flights operating to and from Indira Gandhi International Airport. Plus, Delhi gives easy access to the major states and cities in India via air, rail, and road.
Book your flights with Kiwi.com. Best prices guaranteed.
Suitably, your trip to north India begins in Delhi.
Your arrival time in Delhi depends upon the flight you choose. You can plan your arrival day accordingly. We’d recommend checking into your hotel or apartment, relaxing, taking time to adapt to your new time zone, and then maybe taking a stroll around the area nearby to get the vibe of the city.
Where to stay in Delhi? If you go by our suggestion, Connaught Place is the best area to stay. It’s easy to navigate the city from here as it’s the center of the city. The Claridges, The Imperial, Bloomrooms, and CP Villa are some of our choice of properties in Central Delhi.
How to get around Delhi? The best way to get around Delhi has to be Delhi Metro. It’s easy, quick, affordable, and efficient. With an overwhelming fleet of buses, DTC takes you to hard-to-reach parts of Delhi but the journey isn’t comfortable especially if you are traveling with kids. Cycle rickshaws, e-rickshaws, and auto rickshaws (tuk-tuk) are best for short distances. They come in handy while exploring Old Delhi. Ola and Uber are widely available in Delhi.
Read More: Festivals of India
Day 1: Explore Delhi
Kick off your day with an authentic south Indian breakfast at Saravana Bhavan or Andhra Bhawan.
Wherever we travel, we genuinely want to see the city or country beyond the image that photojournalists often create. And that’s why we want to know where to seek the soul of the city. Well, the soul of Delhi lies in Old Delhi or Purani Dilli.
Every nook and cranny of the old city unfolds the stories of the past. The Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan built Shahjahanabad, the seventh city of Delhi in 1639 that’s now known as Old Delhi.
A walk through this part of the city is perfect to get a sneak into the heritage, culture, history, and food of Delhi.
Your first stop is Jama Masjid. The red sandstone mosque showcases impressive Indo-Islamic architecture and is known for being the largest mosque in India.
Check out one of the historical gurudwaras in Delhi, Sis Ganj Sahib. It was constructed in 1783 to commemorate the martyrdom of the 9th Sikh guru, Guru Teg Bahadur who was beheaded here on the orders of the cruelest Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in 1675.
Next up is Red Fort or Lal Qila. The ancient fort had been a seat for Mughal Empire and is now one of the most significant monuments in India. The Prime Minister of India hoists the National Flag and addresses the people of India from its ramparts every year on 15th August, the Independence Day of India. An absolute fusion of Islamic, Persian, Timurid, and Hindu architecture, the red sandstone fort is grand in every sense and features stunning palaces, pavilions, and mosques.
Come back in the evening for the impressive sound and light show, Son-et-Lumiere. The timings of the show differ with the season.
It’s time to take on the most awaited activity of the day. Explore the heart of Old Delhi, Chandani Chowk. Walk past or ride past (hire a tuk-tuk) the cramped, colorful, and flavorful bazaars of Chandani Chowk. As you walk through the narrow lanes, you discover something new and exciting with each twist and turn. That’s the beauty of Old Delhi. Dariba Kalan (famous for silver jewelry), Khari Baoli (the largest wholesale spice market in Asia), Katra Neel (ethenic wear), and Bhagirath Palace (the largest wholesale electrical products market in Asia) are some of the best markets in Chandani Chowk.
If you love all things rustic like us, don’t forget to dig into the offbeat corners of Chandani Chowk like Naughara Gali (elaborate and vibrant architecture) and Ghalib ki Haveli.
Also, you just can’t explore Chandani Chowk and not savor the intricate delicacies in Old Delhi. You know, one can only discover Old Delhi through its food :) It’s best to take one of the guided food walks for a unique culinary experience. We recommend Eat Like a Local: Chandni Chowk Street Food and Walking Tour by Get Your Guide and Old Delhi Street Food Tour by Viator.
If you want to take a self-guided food walk then your Old Delhi culinary itinerary must include dry fruit paratha at Paranthe Wali Gali, jalebi at Old Famous Jalebi Wala, kachori at Jung Bahadur Kachoriwala, Dahi bhallas at Natraj Dahi Bhalla, khurchan at Hazari Lal Jain Khurchan Wala, bedmi puri and nagori halwa at Shyam Sweets or Shiv Mishthan Bhandar, Daulat ki chaat at Khemchand Daulat Ki Chaat, dal biji at Kanwarji Dalbijiwale, an overwhelming variety of chaats at Shree Balaji Chaat Bhandar and Bishan Swaroop for Chaat, lassi at Amritsari Lassi Wala, and masala chai at Kailash Chand Jain Chai Wale.
Make sure to take all the precautions to avoid Delhi belly (traveler’s diarrhea) while you enjoy the mouthwatering street food in Delhi.
End your day by dining at Plum By Bent Chair. It’s so so charming and gorgeous that you’d just want to sit and adore the mise-en-scène.
Day 2: Explore Delhi
What do you think about the day 1 exploration? How did you like the mayhem of noises, colors, smells, and sights? Today, you are going to see an altogether different side of Delhi. You are heading to New Delhi. If Old Delhi is an assault on the senses, New Delhi is a feast for them.
Have a tummyful and soulful breakfast at Mister Chai or Cafe Lota. Start your sightseeing tour with Gurudwara Shri Bangla Sahib. Comfortably located in the center of Delhi, the gurdwara isn’t just known for being one of the largest Sikh shrines in the world but also for its stunning architecture. And once tasted, you can never forget Kada Prasad’s taste.
Make headway to Lutyens Delhi, a swanky and posh area that’s not only home to high-profile people like top politicians including the Prime Minister of India and leading industrialists of the country but also boasts broad roads, grand avenues, iconic landmarks, stunning monuments, important government buildings, world-class museums, and almost all the embassies. It presents the colonial past and heritage of India.
Start your tour at Rajpath, the broadest avenue in the city. As you walk the area, you’ll pass by Agrasen ki Baoli (historic stepwell), Rashtrapati Bhawan (President’s Palace), North Block, and South Block (home to the most important ministries of the Government of India), Parliament of India, India Gate, Janpath, and Connaught Place (main shopping district of Delhi).
India Gate is one of the most iconic moments in Delhi. The archway (inscribed with the names of soldiers who chose martyrdom for the nation) commemorates the Indian soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the British Army during World War I. Located under the arch is Amar Jawan Jyoti. The eternal flame burns day and night to remember the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in Indo-Pakistan War in 1971.
This part of Delhi is home to some of the best museums in India. If you are a museum enthusiast and have time for only one museum then I’d urge you to visit the National Museum of India. With its vast display of 200,000 artifacts (Indian as well as foreign), the museum is known to be a great place to unearth the world’s rich cultural heritage.
The entire tour of Lutyen’s Delhi will take around 3 to 4 hours. If you want a break from sightseeing and looking for a place to have lunch nearby, look no further than Gulati. They serve the best north Indian food.
Now that you are recharged, head to Lodhi Gardens, an oasis of peace and tranquility in an otherwise chaotic city. This isn’t just a green open space but a treasure trove of history. Yes! Some beautiful ancient monuments inside the park are -the tomb of Mohammed Shah, Tomb of Sikandar Lodi, Sheesh Gumbad, Bara Gumbad, and Athpula Bridge.
About 900 meters from the gardens is Lodhi Art District, the first ever open-air art district in India. Street art lovers will enjoy the stroll.
Enjoy a cup of tea (of your choice) at Mittal Tea House.
After a much-needed dose of caffeine, check out two of the most beautiful garden tombs in Delhi – Safdarjung Tomb and Humayun’s Tomb. A combination of art, history, and beauty; both the monuments are famous among Instagrammers. You can’t get enough of them.
After a hectic yet satiating excursion, it’s time for dinner. We present you with a restaurant in Delhi that’s known for its authentic and unique dining experience – Indian Accent. A stunning waterfront location, world-class services, and traditional Indian food with a global twist make Indian Accent one of the best dining destinations in Delhi. As a first-timer, try their chef’s tasting menu.
If you want to explore Qutub Minar, Purana Qila, Lotus Temple, and Tughlaqabad Fort, you can try visiting them on your last day in Delhi depending on the time of your flight.
Delhi’s huge and you can’t explore all of it in a day or two. The city needs at least 4 to 5 days to catch sight of all the best places to visit in Delhi.
You Might Want to Read: 20 Best Weekend Getaways Near Delhi
Day 3: Delhi to Varanasi | Explore Varanasi
You can’t miss Varanasi (aka Benares, Banaras, or Kashi) when in India. The spiritual capital of India gives you a chance to know India in all its rawness. It’s not a destination but an experience. An experience that has the power to change the way you look at life and death. An experience that transforms you as a person. An experience that revolutionizes your life. An experience that stays with you forever.
How to get to Varanasi from Delhi? Take a late-night flight from Delhi to Varanasi. The flight time is about 1 hour 30 minutes. The flight is the fastest way to reach Varanasi from Delhi and the most sensible way as you only have a day to explore one of the oldest living cities in the world. Alternatively, you can catch an overnight train (Shiv Ganga Express or Swatantrata Senani Express) from New Delhi Railway Station to Varanasi Junction. Whatever mode you choose to travel, make sure you’d have an entire day to feel the vibe of the world-famous ancient city.
How to get around Varanasi? The most convenient (and the only) mode of transportation to explore Varanasi is walking. If you feel tired you can hire a cycle rickshaw or auto rickshaw (tuk-tuk).
Where to stay in Varanasi? If you want to stay on the banks of the River Ganges, Gully Ghar (budget) and Brijrama Palace (luxury) are the best options. For travelers who wish to stay away from the mayhem, The Taj Ganges and Hotel Surya, Kaiser Palace serve as peaceful getaways.
Start your day with an early morning (5 am) boat ride on the Ganges, the holiest river in India. It’s beautiful to witness the spiritual city of Varanasi waking up with the sun. As the boat cruises gently down the Ganges and the sun rises along the banks of the river, you somehow feel the divine power. There isn’t any other way to take in the culture and spirituality of Varanasi.
Head straight to the Ram Bhandar in Govindpura to savor the famous khasta kachori and aloo sabzi and jalebi for breakfast. Tucked away in a narrow lane of Varanasi, this tiny shop is winning hearts and tummies since 1887. Just about 400 meters from here is the famous shop called The Blue Lassi which serves about 100 types of lassi. You must try their special dry fruit lassi.
Next on our itinerary for Varanasi is the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is one of the most important and revered centers of the Hindu religion. It’s home to one of the 12 jyotirlingas in India. As per Hindu belief, visiting the Dwadash (12) Jyotirlingas relieve you from all your sins.
After visiting the iconic temple, take a stroll across the many Ghats (there are over 88 ghats) of Varanasi. Walk the Banaras Ghat Road and stop by the ghats along the road. The most famous ghats you’ll want to check out include Manikarnika Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, Panchaganga Ghat, Rajendra Prasad Ghat, Adi Keshav Ghat, Chet Sigh Ghat, Harishchandra Ghat, Darbhanga Ghat, Man Mandir Ghat, and Kedar Ghat.
Manikarnika Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat are also known as burning ghats as they are exclusively used for cremation ceremonies by Hindus. The process, however, isn’t easy to witness in fact, quite unpleasant and disturbing but it’s what makes Varanasi what it is.
Blessed by Lord Shiva, Manikarnika Ghat holds a supreme position among other ghats by the holy scriptures in Hinduism and is considered the holiest ghat in Varanasi. It is believed that if a person is cremated here, he immediately attains salvation (moksha or absolute liberation from the cycle of life and death). Harishchandra Ghat is closely connected with the legendary king, Raja Harishchandra.
After a soul-awakening tour of ghats, you must drop in at Pappu Chaiwala at Assi crossing. After a sip or two from the best cup of chai in Varanasi, you’d forget the fatigue of mind and body.
Other famous places where you can hog on street food in Varanasi are Kashi Chat Bhandar (Tamatar Chat, Chooda Matar, Golgappe), Baati Chokha Restaurant (Baati Chokha), Shreeji Sweets & Milk Markandey Sardar (Malaiyo), Kashi Vishwanath Thandai Ghar (Thandai), Green Lassi (Bhang Lassi), and Ramchandra Chaurasia Tambul Bhandar (Banarasi Paan). You can choose any of them for a flavorful lunch.
After lunch, it’s time to visit Sarai Mohana. Popularly known as weaver’s village, it’s well-known for silk weaving. The local artisans craft the world-famous Banarasi Saree. Each piece is intricately designed using the finest silk and adorned with zari (gold and silver brocade). A tour of the weaver’s village gives you an opportunity to meet the craftsmen themselves and know the art, culture, heritage, and history associated with the craft.
Finally, it’s time to witness the most magical experience you’ll ever witness in your lifetime – Ganga Aarti at Dashaswamedh Ghat. It remains the celebrity attraction of Varanasi. It’s a visual and sensory treat! It’s beautiful. It’s spiritual to the core. It’s pious. It’s soul-stirring. You are there but you aren’t there – that’s the feeling! As the aroma of flowers and the sound of prayer bells and holy chants fill the air and the glittering lights of lamps fill the sky, the devotees dance in joy. The aura of sheer energy and positivity is unmatched.
End your day (BTW, what a day!) with homestyle wholesome Indian food at Niyati Cafe. It’s located around 250 meters (5 minutes walk) from Dashaswamedh Ghat. You might have to wait for a table as the cafe is quite popular among locals and tourists and sees a lot of guests.
Day 4: Varanasi to Lucknow | Explore Lucknow
Before you embark on a long journey from Varanasi to Lucknow, you must relish the Banaras special malai toast and masala chai at Laxmi Chai Wale.
How to get to Lucknow from Varanasi? You can hire a cab and start as early as possible to reach Lucknow latest by lunchtime. The road trip from Varanasi to Lucknow takes a little over 5 hours. It’s an easy and smooth journey via Purvanchal Expressway.
A train journey is also a good option. It’s best to book a late-night train (Dibrugarh Rajdhani Express, Chandigarh SF Express, Howrah Dehradun Kumbha SF Express, and Malda Town New Delhi Express) to reach Lucknow earliest by 8 am. If that’s not possible for you, you can board an early morning train (Tatanagar Jallianwala Bagh Express and Ganga Sutlej Express) that should arrive in Lucknow at about 3 pm.
How to get around Lucknow? If not huge, Lucknow is not at all compact. After all, it’s the capital and the largest city of the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. The attractions are sparsely located. So, you’d need transport to get from one place to another. The options available are Lucknow Metro, Cab, and Auto Rickshaw. The city center (old city) is best explored by an auto rickshaw while you can use the metro or a cab (Uber or Ola) to get to the airport, railway station, or attractions located outside the city center.
Where to stay in Lucknow? If you want to stay where all the action is then the old city is the best area to stay. It’s where all the sights and famous street food vendors are located. The city center is chaotic and has no good places to stay. However, there are areas close to the center where you can book a hotel. Fortune Park BBD, FabHotel Prime V Hussainganj, La Place Sarovar Portico, Radisson Lucknow City Center, Clarks Awadh, and Lebua Lucknow are some of the best properties close to the city center.
For all those travelers who crave peace and luxury and don’t mind distances, Gomti Nagar is the best area to stay. Novotel, Hilton Garden Inn, Hyatt Regency, Fairfield by Marriott, Renaissance Lucknow Hotel, and Taj Mahal Lucknow are some of the best accommodation options.
Lucknow, fondly known as the City of Nawabs (as it was the former capital of Awadh ruled by Nawabs) attracts tourists for its rich culture and cuisine. Your Lucknow itinerary for one day depends upon the time you reach Lucknow. If you come by overnight train, you’ll have a full day in Lucknow while if you are coming by road or train, you’ll have a half day in the city.
For those who have an entire day at their disposal can start with a nice breakfast at Sharma Ji Ki Chai. Pair gol samosa or bun maska with a kulhad chai.
After a hearty breakfast, take an auto-rickshaw to Husainabad Trust Road. It’s where most of the famous sights are located.
Start with Bada Imambara. It has to be the most fascinating attraction in Lucknow. It’s famous for its maze, Bhul Bhulaiya which has about 1024 ways to get inside but only 2 to come out. Sounds interesting? Apart from the maze, within the complex of the Bara Imambara are Asfi mosque, an important place of worship for the Shia Muslims, and Shah Baoli, an ancient stepwell. The view from the top of the building is stunning.
Next, you’ll witness Rumi Darwaza. A beautiful example of Awadhi architecture, Rumi Darwaza looks imposing. You can spot the grand gate from your auto itself. It’s also called as Turkish Gate because of its similarity with an ancient gate in Turkey, Bab-i-Humayun.
Move on to another beautiful monument, Chhota Imambara. It is located about 1 km west of Bara Imambara. Also known as Imambara of Hussainabad, the exterior walls of the building showcase Quranic verses inscribed in Islamic calligraphy while the interior hall reveals myriad chandeliers and crystal glass lamp stands.
Next, you can spot the Husainabad Clock Tower aka Ghanta Ghar, a structure built by Nawab Nasir-ud-din Haide in 1881 to celebrate the arrival of the first Lieutenant-Governor of the United Province of Avadh, Sir George Couper and Satkhanda (literally means seven-storeyed), an ancient watchtower. You can admire them from the outside.
It’s time for lunch. If you are a non-vegetarian, you must head to Idrees Biryani for Dum/Awadhi biryani. If you are a vegetarian like me, gorge on yummy chole bhature at Sardar Ji Ke Mashhoor Chole Bhature-Punjabi Zaiqa.
Ignore the sluggish vibe after lunch (you have no time for that) and hire an auto to British Residency or The Residency. Once home to the British Resident General who was a representative in the court of the Nawab, the residency now serves as a government office. The most notable fact about the building is that it has been an important part of the Seige of Lucknow in 1857.
After a day’s sightseeing, it absolutely is necessary to savor a cup of tea at Tandoori Chai. It’s not your regular cup of tea. It’s something special. The smokey kulhad makes all the difference here. Make sure you witness the process as the person prepares it for you.
Now that you are feeling refreshed and energetic, why not go shopping? I always buy suits and kurtas with the traditional handiwork of Chikankari whenever I visit Lucknow. Chikankari literaaly means hand embriodery. It’s the well-known ancient art form of Lucknow. You can find them everywhere in Lucknow but I recommend Bhairavi’s Chikan in Chowk, Ada Designer Chikan Studio and Nazrana Chikan in Hazrajganj, and SEWA (Self Employed Women’s Association) Chikan in Halwasiya Market and Brahm Nagar.
You must be feeling excited after adding a chic piece of Chikankari to your wardrobe. Celebrate with an extravagant dinner at Tundey Kababai. Try their iconic mutton galouti kebab and Mughlai paratha. Vegetarians don’t need to be disappointed. Lucknow has amazing options for them too. You can go to Royal Cafe and order their basket chaat and aloo tikki or can taste khasta at Rattilal or Durga Khasta Corner.
A meal isn’t complete without a dessert. Do you agree? Kesar kulfi falooda from Prakash Kulfi Shop is here to satisfy your sweet tooth. Alternatively, you can also try malai gilori aka malai paan or bilai ki gilori at Ram Asrey.
Day 5: Lucknow to Agra | Explore Agra
It’s time to visit Agra, a city that’s world-famous for its monument of love.
How to get to Agra from Lucknow? A drive from Agra to Lucknow via Agra Lucknow Expressway offers super smooth and super fast. It should take anywhere between 4 to 5 hours in normal traffic. Alternatively, an overnight (Patna Kota Express, Marudhar Express, Avadh Express ) or an early morning train (Gomti Express) can be booked. Also, an overnight bus journey is also an option. Book your train and bus tickets on 12Go Asia.
How to get around Agra? The best way to get around Agra is indisputably by auto-rickshaw. Make sure to negotiate and fix the fare with a driver before hiring an auto. Taxis are also easily available, a bit pricey though. Another fast, effortless, and hassle-free option is to hire a car and driver for a half or full day.
Where to Stay in Agra? Travelers from different corners of the world come to Agra just and just to witness the greatest monument of love in the world – the Taj Mahal. So it certainly makes sense to stay close to the Taj Mahal. And imagine staying in a room with a view of the Taj Mahal. Located along Taj East Gate Road (less than 1 km from Taj Mahal), The Oberoi Amarvilas Agra fulfills your wish. There are some amazing properties located in Taj Ganj (just 3 km away from Taj Mahal) like ITC Mughal, Tajview, and Crystal Sarovar Premiere. For those who prefer a homestay over a hotel, The Coral House Homestay by the Taj is the best bet. It’s utterly beautiful and so so close (700m) to the Taj.
What to do in Agra? Well, admire the Taj Mahal. There are many ways to admire one of the eight wonders of the world. You’ll spend your day taking in and capturing the beauty of the Taj from different perspectives.
If you are coming by road or an early morning train, you should reach Agra by noon. You can check in to your hotel, freshen up and have your lunch at the hotel’s restaurant before your sightseeing tour.
If you’ve chosen to reach Agra by an overnight train or bus, you’d start your sightseeing tour bright and early. You can have your breakfast at your hotel’s restaurant or can choose to go to Saniya Palace Restaurant or Good Vibes Cafe or Anokhe Paranthe if you plan to take a sunrise tour of Taj Mahal. Make sure you reach the monument as early as 5 a:30 am.
First off, visit the Taj Mahal.
There are three entrance gates to the monument – the East Gate or Fatehabadi Darwaza, the West Gate or Fatehpuri Darwaza, and the South Gate or Sirhi Darwaza (used for exit only). Most of the hotels are located near the East Gate so you’d probably enter through it. There are separate queues for foreign tourists and domestic tourists. The ticket counter is a bit away from the main monument so prepare to walk for about 1 km or hire a rickshaw. Booking your tickets online gives you an edge over other tourists.
The main components of the Taj Mahal complex are Darwaza-i-rauza or Great Gate, Taj Bageecha or Taj Mahal Gardens or Char Bagh, masjid or a mosque, and naqqar khana or mihman khana or the rest house or guest pavilion on either side of the Taj Mahal and the mausoleum, the Taj itself. Taj Mahal Museum is also a part of the complex.
The first glance of the snowy-white tomb is soul-stiring.
While you are at the Taj Mahal, give time and notice the tiniest details. It’s awe-inspiring to see the designs and inscriptions intricately carved into marble.
Photograph as if it’s your last chance to capture the Taj Mahal because you never know if you’d be back or not. Try different angles. Try different lighting. And don’t forget to get yourself clicked sitting on a Diana Bench.
Taj Mahal is open all days except Fridays. It opens 30 minutes before sunrise and closes 30 Minutes before sunset.
Now that you’ve seen the attraction you’ve always dreamt of visiting, it’s time to shift your focus to another UNESCO World Heritage site close by, Agra Fort. This historic red sandstone is another Mughal architectural masterpiece. The fort is home to some beautiful palaces like Khas Mahal, Shahjahani Mahal, and Jahangir Mahal, ornate audience halls like Diwan-i-Khas, step-wells, and mosques.
After an exhausting tour of the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, it’s vital to refill your cup of energy with a hot cup of masala chai, and what better place than 25 Hours Hangout Cafe?
Next, visit the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daula. The tomb was built by Nur Jahan, one of the wives of Jahangir and the first and only female ruler of the Mughal Empire for her father Mirza Ghiyas Beg (known by his title of I’timad-ud-Daulah). Because of it being the inspiration behind the Taj Mahal, the tomb is famously known as Baby Taj or Bachcha Taj. In fact, it’s said to be the first draft of the Taj Mahal.
Now you must head to Mehtab Bagh (literally translates to Moonlight Garden) for the best view of the Taj Mahal. Located on the bank of river Yamuna, the Taj Viewpoint presents the different colors of the Taj – golden during sunrise and sunset, milky white during the afternoon, and out of this world during moonlight.
The last but not least, take a boat ride on the Yamuna River for another gorgeous unobstructed panoramic view of the Taj Mahal. A 30-minute ride on the river won’t cost a dime but gifts you once in a lifetime moment of sheer wonder and awe that could last forever.
Finish your day with an elaborate Indian dinner at Peshawri.
Day 6: Sunrise at Taj Mahal | Agra to Jaipur | Stop by Fatehpur Sikri, Keoladeo National Park, and Chand Baori
Witness and capture the Taj during sunrise (if you haven’t already) before you head to Jaipur.
How to get to Jaipur from Agra? There are quite a few super fast trains and buses available from Agra to Jaipur but you are going to hire a car and driver for this part of your trip as you’ve to explore two of the amazing places to stop by on the way: Fatehpur Sikri, Keoladeo Ghana National Park, & Chand Baori on the way to Jaipur.
Your first stop on the way is Fatehpur Sikri. Located at a distance of 37 km from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is a walled city built by Mughal Emperor Akbar to honor a Sufi saint, Sheikh Salim Chisti. The city served as the capital of the Mughal empire for a short period of time before he abandoned it because of the acute water shortage.
Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the walled fortification features Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid, Tomb of Salim Chisti, Jodha Bai’s Palace, Diwan-Khas, Panch Mahal, Birbal’s House, Khwabgah, and many more structures.
Note: If you want to hire a guide, look for a qualified government-recommended guide. You can find them with an ID card near the ticket counter.
The next stopover on today’s itinerary is one of the best national parks in India and the finest bird sanctuaries in the world, Keoladeo Ghana National Park (formerly known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary). It takes about 25 to 30 minutes to reach the national park from Fatehpur Sikri. A royal hunting ground during the 1850s, Keoladeo was declared a national park in 1982 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
From basking python, nilgai, and deer, to spotted owls, painted storks, and more, the park is home to more than 370 species of birds and animals. The national park has many routes to choose from and it can be explored either on foot or by cycle, or by rickshaw. It’s recommended to hire one of the trained rickshaw pullers who helps you navigate the park and double up as a knowledgeable guide. Also, don’t forget to carry a pair of binoculars. Located right in the heart of the park is an ancient (250 years old) Hindu Temple, Keoladeo Shiva Temple. The national park got its name from this temple.
It’s already lunchtime. Have a traditional lunch at Gulmohar Restaurant at The Bagh Resort and then drive towards Jaipur.
Take a bit of detour from Manpur to reach Chand Baori Step Well. Chand Baori is located in the tiny village of Abhaneri in the Dausa district of Rajasthan. Built by King Chanda of the Nikumbha dynasty to solve the problem of water shortage in the parched land of Abhaneri. The stepwell got its name from the king himself.
An architectural wonder, this ancient stepwell is one of the largest and deepest step wells in India. Over 3500 meticulously carved steps descend 20 meters down 913 stories) to reach the water level.
You can also find excavated stone sculptures and carved pillars kept in the corridors around the stepwell.
Don’t forget to take blessings from the Harshat Mata (goddess of joy, happiness, and brightness) at Harshat Mata Temple. The temple is situated right next to the stepwell. In fact, King Chanda dedicated Chand Baori to the goddess.
Now fasten your seatbelt, sit back, relax, and enjoy a 2 hours journey from Chand Baori to Jaipur.
Related Read: The Haunted Fort of Bhangar in Rajasthan
You’ll be in Jaipur by late evening. Check in to your hotel and enjoy a hot cup of tea or coffee at your hotel’s restaurant. If you feel energetic after an evening dose of caffeine, you might want to gorge on good food at Masala Chowk, an open-air food court in Ram Niwas Garden where you can taste the famous street food of Jaipur.
How to get around Jaipur? Getting from one attraction to another is easy by auto rickshaw and e-rickshaw. You can hire a taxi, Uber, or Ola for longer distances. The easiest and fastest option (especially if you are traveling with kids) is hiring a car with a chauffeur for a day or two. It doesn’t cost that much but makes exploration a breeze.
Where to stay in Jaipur? Jaipur has quite an overwhelming range of accommodations for all budgets. We recommend staying in a heritage haveli or a palace hotel for an authentic experience. Our pick of best accommodations in Jaipur includes Shahpura House, Umaid Bhawan, Alsisar Haveli, The Jai Bagh Palace, Rambagh Palace, The Oberoi Rajvilas Jaipur, and Rajmahal Palace RAAS.
Day 7: Explore Jaipur
You only have two days in Jaipur so your itinerary to explore the pink city should be designed in a way that covers the best of Jaipur.
Fondly knowns as the Paris of India, Jaipur remains the most loved Indian city by foreigners for all the right reasons. The city seems to be the perfect embodiment of quintessential India. It beautifully values, embraces, and preserves its rich culture, heritage, customs, history, and warm hospitality. A maze of colorful bazaars and historical sights, Jaipur oozes a unique charm.
You must must start your day super early to make the most of your time in Jaipur.
Enjoy a breakfast with a view (of Amer Fort) at The Stag Rooftop Restro, Cafe, & Lounge before you visit Amer Fort. Reach the fort as soon as it opens (8 am) to escape the crowds. A fine example of Rajput architecture, Amer Fort or Amber Fort is deemed to be one of the most majestic forts in India. The fort was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites under the category of Hillforts of Rajasthan in 2013.
The main attractions in the fort are Suraj Pol, Chand Pol, Diwan-e-Aam, Diwan-e-Khaas, Ganesh Pol, Jaleb Chowk, Singh Pol, Jai Mandir, Yash Mandir, Sukh Niwas, Sheesh Mahal, Suhag Mandir, Shila Devi Temple, Bhool Bhulaiya, and Zanana Dyodhi. The underground tunnels that connect the two mighty forts of Amer and Jaigarh are also worth exploring.
Walk a bit (about 800m) to see Panna Meena Ka Kund. an ancient stepwell that’s a delight to the eyes.
You can check out Jaigarh Fort. Not as beautiful as Amer Fort, Jaigarh is a defensive fort. The major draw here is the world’s largest cannon on the wheels, Jaivana. You can also enjoy the view over Amer Fort and Lake Maota from here.
Next on the itinerary is Nahargarh Fort. It’s at a distance of 11 km from the Amer Fort. If you are traveling by car, you can stop by Gaitore Ki Chhatriyan. A royal crematorium ground for the Kachhwaha rulers, it’s an architectural marvel.
Travelers rave about (rightly so) the panoramic views over the city of Jaipur from Nahargarh Fort. You got to witness the magic. The fort itself is beautiful.
You can have your lunch at Indian Curry Palace or Govindam Retreat. Both are famous for their authentic Indian flavors.
Now drive to Jal Mahal or Water Palace True to its name, it’s a palace floating in the middle of a lake. Though you can’t visit the palace as the state government has closed the entrance to the palace but can appreciate the beauty from distance.
Enjoy a cup of tea at Kokum Bistro while you wait for the last but of course not the least attraction of the day – The Light and Sound Show at Amber Place.
The show takes you back in time when Kachwaha Rajputs ruled the kingdom of Amer. The famous Indian poet Gulzar created this masterpiece and the narration in the baritone voice of the legendary Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan is a cherry on the cake. The show timings differ with the season and version (English or Hindi).
Put a full stop to your hectic day with a wholesome dinner at 1135 AD.
Related Read: 3-day Jaipur itinerary
Day 8: Explore Jaipur
On your second or rather last day in Jaipur, we recommend rising early to catch a sight of Hawa Mahal during sunrise.
The best spot to admire the Hawa Mahal is the Tattoo Cafe & Lounge. It’s opposite the palace. You can enjoy a good breakfast and tea at the cafe while capturing Hawa Mahal as the early morning sun rays light up its façade.
Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds was built in 1799 by Sawai Pratap Singh for the royal ladies so they could observe the activities and processions on the street below while remaining unnoticed. Its unique five-storey honeycomb façade showcasing 953 latticed windows known as jharokhas has become an icon for Jaipur. Some tourists just come here to take a photo of the iconic building and some decide to explore it from inside. The interior isn’t as fascinating as the exterior, though you can climb to the top and admire the view of the vibrant bazaar through the windows.
Another exquisite attraction in the old walled city of Jaipur is City Palace. The palace has been home to the royal family of Jaipur for centuries now. A mind-blowing fusion of Rajput and Mughal architecture, the spacious complex is alive with beautiful courtyards, pavilions, gardens, and temples. Out of all the attractions you see inside, Pritam Niwas Chowk with its ornate doors, and Chhavi Niwas in Chandra Mahal remain our favorites. They are gorgeous! You’d need to pay the additional amount for an entry to Chandra Mahal. It’s quite a cost but worth every penny.
Next door to the City Palace is the Jantar Mantar, a huge astronomical observatory built by Sawai Jai Singh, the founder of Jaipur between 1728 and 1734. It has over 19 stone instruments including Samrat Yantra, the largest stone sundial in the world. Even today, the instruments are considered to be accurate to perfection and are still used to calculate the movements of the sun and other celestial bodies.
Head over to Hawk View Restaurant & Bar for lunch.
After a break for lunch, we recommend exploring the fascinating bazaars of Jaipur. You’ll find shops and tiny stalls selling everything from local handicrafts to traditional wear to silver jewelry to lac bangles to mojris.
And don’t forget to try the amazing street food while strolling around the markets. We recommend traditional lassi at Lassiwala, a cup of masala chai at Gulab Ji Chai Wale, and pyaaz kachori at Rawat Mishthan Bhandar.
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