Morning: Take the overnight express train from Trivandrum to Goa and arrive by mid‑morning. Check into a budget guesthouse near Calangute and freshen up.
Afternoon: Stroll along Calangute Beach and enjoy a light seafood lunch at a shacks. Explore the bustling Mapusa Market for local spices and souvenirs.
Evening: Watch the sunset at Miramar Beach and dine on Goan thali at a seaside café. Return to the guesthouse for a restful night.
Book a HotelMorning: Visit the historic Fort Aguada and its lighthouse, then head to nearby Sinquerim Beach for a quick swim.
Afternoon: Explore the vibrant streets of Baga and Anjuna, sampling street‑food delicacies and browsing the famous flea market.
Evening: Enjoy a beachside dinner at Candolim followed by a relaxed walk along the shoreline under the stars.
Book a HotelMorning: Board a long‑distance train from Goa to Jaisalmer (approx. 14 h). Use the travel time to rest and enjoy the changing landscapes.
Afternoon: Arrive in Jaisalmer, check into a heritage hostel near the fort, and have a light lunch of Rajasthani kachori.
Evening: Wander through the bustling Jaisalmer Bazaar, admire traditional jewellery, and soak in the golden sunset glow on the city walls.
Book a HotelMorning: Explore the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort, climbing its narrow lanes and viewing intricate havelis.
Afternoon: Visit Patwon Ki Haveli and Salim Singh Ki Haveli, marveling at the carved sandstone façades.
Evening: Head to the Sam Sand Dunes for a camel safari at sunset, followed by a cultural folk‑dance show and dinner under the stars.
Book a HotelMorning: Catch an early train to Agra; arrive before dawn to see the Taj Mahal at sunrise, when crowds are thin and light is magical.
Afternoon: Tour the imposing Agra Fort and enjoy a quick lunch of Mughlai cuisine before boarding an overnight train to Shimla.
Evening: Settle into a clean budget hotel in Shimla upon arrival the next morning, freshening up for a day of hill‑station exploration.
Book a HotelMorning: Walk along the iconic Mall Road, sampling fresh momos and browsing souvenir stalls.
Afternoon: Visit the sacred Jakhoo Temple perched on a hill, enjoying panoramic views of the town.
Evening: Relax at the historic Viceregal Lodge gardens and dine on Himachali dishes at a local dhaba.
Book a HotelMorning: Take a short drive to Kufri for a rope‑way ride and a chance to spot yaks.
Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely trek around the snow‑capped hills, followed by a warm lunch in a mountain lodge.
Evening: Return to Shimla, stroll along the riverbank, and unwind with a cup of locally brewed tea.
Book a HotelMorning: Board a fast train/bus from Shimla to Rishikesh, soaking in the scenic valleys en route.
Afternoon: Arrive in Rishikesh, check into a riverside hostel, and explore the iconic Laxman Jhula bridge and nearby ashrams.
Evening: Experience the soulful Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, followed by a light vegetarian dinner.
Book a HotelMorning: Embark on a thrilling white‑water rafting session on the Ganges, suitable for beginners and adventure seekers.
Afternoon: Practice a short yoga session by the river, then enjoy a leisurely lunch before packing up.
Evening: Board an overnight train back to Trivandrum, concluding the journey in time for the flight home on Day 10.
Book a HotelTotal Estimated Cost: ₹21,635
To extend the trip, add an extra night in Goa for a sunrise beach walk or a day trip to the historic city of Jaipur from Jaisalmer. If you need to shorten the itinerary, skip the Kufri excursion and replace the Rishikesh adventure with a half‑day yoga session, which will reduce both travel time and expenses while still offering a fulfilling experience.