From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the serene backwaters of the South, India’s landscapes mirror the breadth of its heritage and the diversity of its people. Whether drawn to the vibrant pulse of its cities or the tranquil solitude of its rural villages, India offers a distinct experience at every turn. Sacred temples, lively festivals, world-renowned cuisine, and a dynamic arts scene converge, creating a sensory feast. From exhilarating wildlife safaris to peaceful retreats, this 15-day India travel itinerary invites you to discover the astonishing variety that defines this ancient land.
Get started on your itinerary with an understanding of the best time to visit India.
India itinerary days 1-3: Delhi
Arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport and check into your hotel, with options like the luxurious Leela Palace, regal The Imperial New Delhi, sleek JW Marriott Aerocity, or serene The Lodhi. Begin your exploration of Lutyens’ Delhi, a blend of British colonial architecture and grand avenues. Visit India Gate, a war memorial, and Rashtrapati Bhavan, the President’s residence. For shopping, explore Janpath, the arcades of Connaught Place, and the chic Khan Market. Enjoy dinner at Diva (Khan Market) for Italian or Tres (Lodi Colony) for French-inspired dishes.
Book your stay at The Leela Palace via Booking.com
Book your stay at The Imperial New Delhi via Booking.com
On day 2, visit the Qutub Minar, a UNESCO site, and Humayun’s Tomb, which inspired the Taj Mahal. Reflect at Raj Ghat, Mahatma Gandhi’s memorial, and explore India’s heritage at the National Museum and National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA). You can enjoy the ethereal Sufi qawwali at Nizamuddin Dargah on Thursday evenings.
On day 3 of your India itinerary, visit Old Delhi, starting with the Red Fort, a UNESCO site. Take a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, visit the grand Jama Masjid, and explore Dharampura Haveli for traditional food and performances. End with a visit to the Lotus Temple and dinner at Bukhara (ITC Maurya) or the innovative Indian Accent (The Lodhi).
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Book your stay at ITC Maurya via Booking.com
Day 4: Agra
A 2-3 hour drive from Delhi leads to Agra, home to the Taj Mahal, an architectural marvel built by Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, in the 17th century. In the afternoon, explore the Agra Fort, a majestic red sandstone built by Emperor Akbar in the late 16th century. From the fort’s vantage points, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Taj Mahal across the Yamuna River — a reminder of the era when Akbar, Jahangir, and Shah Jahan showcased the might of the Mughal Empire through grand architecture and design.
If you plan to spend more time in the city, choose your stay from our list of the top Agra hotels with spectacular Taj Mahal views.
India itinerary days 5-6: Jaipur
Begin your day with a stunning sunrise view of the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh across the Yamuna River, when the monument is bathed in the soft morning light. Afterwards, embark on a 4-5 hour scenic drive to Jaipur, Rajasthan’s ‘Pink City,’ known for its striking pink-hued buildings. Founded by Maharaja Jai Singh II in the 18th century, Jaipur is rich in royal history. Start with Amer Fort, a majestic hilltop fortress with panoramic views of Maota Lake.
Also read | Jaisalmer Vs Jaipur – Choosing Your Perfect Rajasthan Escape
On day 6 of your India itinerary, visit the City Palace, where Mughal and Rajasthani architectural styles blend seamlessly. The iconic Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) is not far away, designed with latticed windows for royal women to observe unseen street life. Explore Jantar Mantar, the astronomical observatory, and the Anokhi Museum, showcasing Jaipur’s block printing traditions. Complete your visit by stopping at the bustling markets for textiles, jewellery, and crafts. Stay at Fairmont Jaipur, Jai Vilas Palace or The Oberoi Rajvilas for royal hospitality. For dining, enjoy a traditional feast at Suvarna Mahal (Taj Rambagh Palace), local street food at Masala Chowk, or Italian-inspired dishes at Bar Palladio.
According to locals, these are the best offbeat experiences in Jaipur.
Book your stay at Fairmont Jaipur via Booking.com
Book your stay at Jai Vilas Palace here
Book your stay at The Oberoi Rajvilas via Booking.com
Days 7-8: Varanasi
Fly into Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, from Jaipur, and after settling into your riverside hotel (Taj Ganges or Brij Rama Palace), lose yourself in the vibrant streets of the Old City. Follow the delicious scent of beloved local street food staples like kachori, jalebi, chaat, and lassi, then embrace the city’s rich textile heritage with a stop at the Banarasi saree markets. As the sun sets, head to Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the awe-inspiring Ganga Aarti, a sacred ceremony of light and flower offerings to the river.
Book your stay at Taj Ganges, Varanasi on Booking.com
Book your stay at Brij Rama Palace via Booking.com
This whirlwind 48-hour Varanasi itinerary is perfect for soaking in the culture of India’s holy city.
On day 8 of your India itinerary, embark on a sunrise boat ride along the Ganges, where you’ll observe time-honoured devotional practices. Later, visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of India’s most revered shrines. In the afternoon, enrich your spiritual journey by visiting Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon beneath the Bodhi Tree.
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India itinerary days 9-10: Thekkady
Take a flight to Kochi, the gateway to Kerala, a tropical paradise celebrated for its palm-fringed beaches, serene backwaters, and rich Ayurvedic traditions. Then, enjoy a scenic four-hour drive through lush landscapes to Thekkady, a tranquil town in the Western Ghats. Here, embark on a boat safari across Periyar Lake, a prime opportunity to spot wild elephants, various bird species, and other exotic wildlife in the serene Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
On day 10 of your India itinerary, immerse yourself in Kerala’s heritage with a guided tour of a local spice plantation. Learn about the region’s centuries-old tradition of spice cultivation, which has been central to Kerala’s economy and culture. Afterwards, relax and rejuvenate with a soothing Ayurvedic spa treatment, a perfect way to unwind after exploring Thekkady.
Eco-friendly retreats like Spice Village, Greenwoods Resort or Sterling Thekkady offer luxurious amenities in harmony with nature. Indulge in authentic Kerala cuisine at Spice Garden or Thekkady Café, where traditional dishes showcase the region’s culinary legacy. If you are already in love with ‘God’s Own Country’, this Kerala itinerary will help you plan an extended vacation.
Book your stay at Spice Village Thekkady via Booking.com
Book your stay at Sterling Thekkady here
Days 11-12: Munnar
Munnar is a serene hill station in the Western Ghats, famed for its rolling tea plantations. A guided tour of the Tata Tea Museum reveals the intriguing process of leaf to brew. Later, find the endangered Nilgiri Tahr at Eravikulam National Park while enjoying breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
On day 12 of your India itinerary, drive to the tranquil Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point for a peaceful boat ride in the cool mountain breeze. For those seeking adventure, Munnar offers excellent trekking opportunities, with a hike to Chokramudi Peak being a rewarding yet manageable challenge.
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The best hotels in Munnar, like Scenic Munnar IHCL Selections and Windermere Estate, promise an immersive experience amid lush tea estates. At Saravana Bhavan, you can taste authentic Kerala vegetarian cuisine.
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Book your stay at Windamere Estate via Booking.com
India itinerary days 13-15: Kochi
Once a bustling spice trading port, Kochi is a vibrant city where colonial, Jewish, and indigenous cultures blend harmoniously. Begin your exploration by witnessing the iconic Chinese fishing nets in Fort Kochi and visiting St. Francis Church, India’s oldest European church. Discover the intricate murals at Mattancherry Palace and explore the historical Jewish Synagogue, home to ancient artefacts.
On day 14, unwind with a scenic houseboat cruise through the serene backwaters of Alleppey or Kumarakom. The tranquil waters offer a glimpse into rural life surrounded by lush landscapes. In the evening, immerse yourself in Kerala’s classical dance drama with a fascinating Kathakali performance.
For accommodation, choose Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty for sweeping views of the Arabian Sea or Brunton Boatyard for colonial nostalgia. Delight in fresh seafood at The Rice Boat and indulge in traditional Kerala dishes at Kashi Art Café, both restaurants known for their exceptional flavours.
On your final day, browse Kochi’s local markets for handmade spices, coir products, and traditional jewellery. Then, head to Cochin International Airport to wrap up an unforgettable journey.
Book your stay at Brunton Boatyard via Booking.com
Book your stay at Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty via Booking.com
(Feature image credit: Trey Ratcliff/Flickr)
Related | Bookmark This: Your Treasure Map To The Most Beautiful Places In India
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
10-14 days are enough to explore India's major attractions, though 3-4 weeks allows for a more deeper India itinerary.
Offbeat destinations to add in your India travel itinerary are Spiti Valley, Rann of Kutch, Ziro Valley, and Gokarna's hidden beaches.
Travel between cities via domestic flights, trains, buses, or private cabs. Trains are affordable, while flights are best for long distances.
Yes, India is family-friendly, with attractions for all ages, from cultural sites to wildlife safaris and beach resorts. Plan for comfort and safety.
Valuable apps include Ola/Uber (transport), IRCTC (train bookings), Zomato (restaurant reviews), and Google Pay (payments).
Popular honeymoon spots on an India travel itinerary include Kerala's backwaters, Goa's beaches, Rajasthan's royal landscapes, and hill stations like Shimla and Manali.
India's vegetarian cuisine is rich, and vegan options are increasingly available, especially in larger cities.
During your India itinerary, look for traditional handicrafts like carpets, wooden artefacts, jewellery, textiles, spices, tea, and local artworks.
Yes, you can include attending traditional weddings, witnessing Diwali/Holi, participating in yoga, and visiting historic temples as part of an India travel itinerary.
India is generally safe for solo travellers, but stay cautious by choosing reputable accommodations and respecting local customs.
Notable road trips include Manali to Leh, Kerala's coastal roads, Mumbai to Goa, and the Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur).
Written By
Punita Malhotra
Punita shifted gears from a career in entrepreneurship and publishing to live her dream of travel and ..Read More
