Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

Bengaluru, North India and Varanasi Route from DFW

Day 1 · Thu, Nov 12
Bengaluru

Fly from DFW to Bengaluru

  1. DFW–Bengaluru flight — DFW to Kempegowda International Airport; allow for the long-haul flight plus immigration, visa formalities and baggage, then transfer about 60–90 minutes to your hotel. Your stated 2:00 a.m. arrival leaves this day primarily for arrival and recovery.
  2. Kempegowda International Airport arrivals — Devanahalli; complete entry and visa requirements, collect luggage and arrange a licensed taxi or hotel transfer, allowing extra time for queues.
  3. Hotel check-in and rest — Bengaluru; sleep and hydrate rather than scheduling sightseeing after the overnight journey.
  4. Hotel restaurant or nearby café — Near your hotel; choose an easy meal, roughly ₹300–1,000 per person depending on the venue.

Overnight arrival

Your DFW–Bengaluru journey ends at Kempegowda International Airport in Devanahalli. With a stated 2:00 a.m. arrival, expect the long flight to be followed by immigration and visa formalities, baggage collection, and possibly queues; allow roughly 60–90 minutes or more before you’re on your way. Arrange a hotel car in advance or use the official airport taxi counter/app pickup, and budget about 60–90 minutes for the drive into Bengaluru, depending on where you’re staying. Keep your hotel address handy and confirm late-night check-in.

Morning and afternoon

Check in, drink water, and sleep. This is not a day to squeeze in sightseeing: the concert is tomorrow, so leave room to recover from the flight and time-zone change. When you wake, have a simple meal close to the hotel and take it easy; a nearby café or your hotel restaurant is the practical choice, typically around ₹300–1,000 per person depending on the venue.

Evening

Keep dinner early and uncomplicated, then get a full night’s rest. If you need essentials, ask the hotel desk about a nearby shop or pharmacy rather than making a long outing. Confirm tomorrow’s concert transport and entry details with your hotel, and keep your passport and visa documents secure but accessible.

Day 2 · Fri, Nov 13
Bengaluru

Concert day in Bengaluru

  1. Cubbon Park — Central Bengaluru; take a gentle morning stroll beneath the trees, about 1 hour.
  2. MTR — Lalbagh Road; enjoy a classic South Indian breakfast, roughly ₹200–500 per person.
  3. Bangalore Palace — Vasanth Nagar; tour the historic palace and grounds, about 1.5–2 hours.
  4. Concert venue and Guns N’ Roses concert — Bengaluru; keep the afternoon open for rest and travel, arrive well before the stated 5:00 p.m. start, and check the ticket for venue, entry time and bag rules.

Morning

Start with an easy one-hour walk through Cubbon Park; its shaded paths are lovely in the morning, and the main park is generally open from around 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. (some gates and facilities keep different hours). Then head to MTR on Lalbagh Road for a classic South Indian breakfast—budget roughly ₹200–500 per person. Go earlier rather than later: breakfast service is typically in the morning, but check that day’s hours before setting out.

Late morning and afternoon

Take a cab or auto to Bangalore Palace in Vasanth Nagar; allow about 1.5–2 hours for the interiors and grounds. It commonly opens around 10 a.m. and closes in the late afternoon, but hours, entry fees and audio-guide availability can change—check ahead, and allow extra time for ticketing and queues. After the visit, keep the afternoon deliberately light: return to your hotel to rest, eat, and leave for the concert with plenty of traffic buffer.

Evening

Head to the concert venue well before the stated 5 p.m. start. The venue isn’t specified here, so check your ticket for its exact location, entry time, gate and bag rules; Bengaluru traffic can make even a short cross-city ride slow, and security queues may add time. Keep your ticket and ID handy, and arrange your ride back in advance if the concert ends late.

Day 3 · Sat, Nov 14
Bengaluru

Stay in Bengaluru

  1. Lalbagh Botanical Garden — Wilson Garden; explore the glasshouse and landscaped grounds in the morning, about 2 hours.
  2. Vidyarthi Bhavan — Basavanagudi; stop for its well-known dosa, roughly ₹150–350 per person.
  3. Bull Temple — Basavanagudi; visit this distinctive Dravidian temple, about 30–45 minutes.
  4. National Gallery of Modern Art — Vasanth Nagar; see Indian modern art in a quiet mansion setting, about 1.5 hours.
  5. Koshy’s — St. Mark’s Road; take a relaxed early dinner, roughly ₹500–1,200 per person.

Morning

Take it easy after yesterday’s concert, then head to Lalbagh Botanical Garden in Wilson Garden for a two-hour wander among the landscaped grounds and glasshouse. It generally opens around 6 a.m.; check the day’s hours before setting out, as entry arrangements can vary. A cab or auto from central Bengaluru is usually the simplest option, though traffic can make the short ride unpredictable. Allow roughly ₹50–100 for garden entry, with extra charges possible for the glasshouse.

Lunch

Continue to Basavanagudi for dosa at Vidyarthi Bhavan, a beloved, busy institution. Expect about ₹150–350 per person, and be prepared to queue around lunchtime; go a little early if you’d rather not wait. Afterward, walk or take a short auto ride to Bull Temple. Set aside 30–45 minutes to see its striking Dravidian architecture and the large Nandi statue. Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering, and carry a little cash for any small temple offerings.

Afternoon and evening

Head north to National Gallery of Modern Art in Vasanth Nagar for a quieter change of pace. The collection is housed in a gracious old mansion, and about 1.5 hours is a comfortable visit; check current opening hours and admission before you go, as museum schedules can change. Later, take a cab toward St. Mark’s Road for an unhurried early dinner at Koshy’s. Budget roughly ₹500–1,200 per person. It’s an easy place to linger over a meal, but allow extra time for Bengaluru traffic between Basavanagudi, Vasanth Nagar and the city centre.

Day 4 · Sun, Nov 15
Chennai

Train to Chennai

Getting there from Bengaluru
Train (IRCTC or 12Go): book a late-morning Shatabdi or other suitable Bengaluru–Chennai service; allow about 5–6 hours station to station, plus transfers. Approx. ₹500–2,500 depending on class. Since the previous evening ends late, avoid an early departure; check the ticket for the exact departure and arrival stations.
  1. Bengaluru–Chennai train — Depart from the station shown on your ticket; allow 1–2 hours to reach the station and roughly 5–7 hours for the train, then budget another 45–90 minutes for Chennai hotel transfer and check-in. Confirm the station and train timing when booking.
  2. Hotel check-in and refresh — Chennai; keep the schedule light after the rail journey.
  3. Marina Beach — Triplicane; enjoy the late-afternoon seafront, about 1 hour, while keeping clear of rough water.
  4. Ratna Cafe — Triplicane; try its idli and sambar, roughly ₹200–450 per person.
  5. San Thome Basilica — Santhome; visit the prominent church if you arrive with sufficient daylight, about 30–45 minutes.

Morning: Train to Chennai

Take a late-morning train from Bengaluru to Chennai, checking your ticket carefully for the departure station and arrival station—services may use different stations in both cities. Allow 1–2 hours to reach the platform, around 5–7 hours for the rail journey, and another 45–90 minutes for the ride to your hotel and check-in. A reserved seat is worth it; fares vary by class, typically around ₹500–2,500.

Afternoon: Check in and reset

After checking in, keep the afternoon open to shower, eat and rest. Chennai’s traffic can make even short cab rides slow, so use a cab or app-based taxi for the evening and leave extra time between stops.

Late afternoon and evening

Head to Marina Beach in Triplicane for an hour by the seafront. November evenings are usually more comfortable than midday, but stay well back from the water—the currents can be dangerous, and swimming isn’t advisable. Then walk or take a short ride to Ratna Cafe for its famous idli and sambar; budget roughly ₹200–450 per person. If there’s still daylight and you have the energy, finish at San Thome Basilica in Santhome for a 30–45-minute visit. Check visiting hours before you go, as church services may affect access.

Day 5 · Mon, Nov 16
Tiruvannamalai

Tiruvannamalai overnight

Getting there from Chennai
Prebooked car with driver via a local operator or a car-hire platform such as Savaari: about 4–5 hours each way, traffic dependent; roughly ₹6,000–10,000 for a one-way vehicle. Leave early and arrange the driver and return trip in advance, as you need to reach Chennai Airport the following day.
  1. Chennai–Tiruvannamalai road transfer — Leave early by prearranged car; allow roughly 4–5 hours each way depending on traffic, with a driver and overnight stay arranged in advance.
  2. Arunachaleswarar Temple — Temple Road; visit the major Shiva temple, allowing 1.5–2 hours and checking current entry and dress requirements.
  3. Sri Ramana Ashram — Chengam Road; spend a quiet hour at the ashram, observing its visitor guidance.
  4. Annamalaiyar Girivalam path — Around Arunachala Hill; take a short, manageable section rather than attempting the full circuit on a tight schedule.
  5. Hotel or local vegetarian meal — Near the temple; have an early dinner, roughly ₹200–600 per person, and stay overnight in town.

Early morning: Drive from Chennai

Leave Chennai early in a prearranged car, ideally around 5:00–6:00 a.m. The drive to Tiruvannamalai usually takes 4–5 hours, but traffic and roadworks can stretch it; agree on the fare, planned stops, and overnight arrangements with the driver beforehand. A one-way car is often about ₹6,000–10,000. Once in town, head to Arunachaleswarar Temple on Temple Road and allow 1½–2 hours. Check current darshan hours and entry guidance before setting out, and dress modestly; queues can add time.

Afternoon and evening

From the temple, take a car or auto to Sri Ramana Ashram on Chengam Road for a quiet hour. Follow the ashram’s visitor guidance and confirm visiting hours locally, as access can vary. Then walk a short, manageable stretch of the Annamalaiyar Girivalam path around Arunachala Hill—don’t attempt the full circuit today, given the long drive and tomorrow’s return. Finish with an early vegetarian dinner near the temple; allow roughly ₹200–600 per person, then stay overnight in town.

Plan for tomorrow’s flight

Your 6:00 p.m. flight from Chennai makes the return drive the tight part of this plan. Leave Tiruvannamalai by about 8:00 a.m. at the latest, and build in a substantial traffic buffer so you can reach the airport around three hours before departure. Because the 4–5-hour drive could run longer, the lower-risk option is to return to Chennai this evening and sleep near the airport; if you keep the overnight in Tiruvannamalai, confirm the driver and departure time before checking in.

Day 6 · Tue, Nov 17
Delhi

Chennai to Delhi

Getting there from Tiruvannamalai
Prebooked car to Chennai Airport, then a nonstop Chennai–Delhi flight on IndiGo, Air India or Air India Express. Allow 4–5 hours for the drive and a generous traffic buffer; the flight is about 2¾–3 hours. Approx. ₹6,000–15,000 for the flight and ₹6,000–10,000 for the car. To make the stated 6:00 p.m. flight, leave Tiruvannamalai early and confirm the driver will take you directly to the airport.
  1. Tiruvannamalai–Chennai return drive — Start early and allow roughly 4–5 hours plus a traffic buffer; confirm the driver will take you directly to the airport.
  2. Chennai International Airport — Meenambakkam; allow time for airport entry, check-in and security before your stated 6:00 p.m. flight.
  3. Delhi arrival and hotel transfer — Allow about 45–90 minutes from the airport depending on traffic, in addition to the flight and baggage collection.
  4. Karim’s — Jama Masjid area; if your hotel and arrival time make this practical, have a late meal of Mughlai specialties, roughly ₹500–1,200 per person.

Morning: Drive to Chennai Airport

Leave Tiruvannamalai early in your prebooked car—around 8 a.m. is a sensible target for a 6 p.m. flight. The drive to Chennai International Airport at Meenambakkam usually takes 4–5 hours, but traffic can add time; confirm the driver is taking you directly to the airport and build in a generous buffer. Keep water and a snack handy, and check in online if your airline allows it.

Afternoon: Airport and flight

At Chennai International Airport, allow time for the terminal-entry check, baggage drop and security; aim to arrive by about 3 p.m. for your stated 6 p.m. departure. After the roughly three-hour flight to Delhi, collect your bags and take a prebooked cab or app-based taxi to your hotel. The airport transfer can take 45–90 minutes depending on traffic, so keep the evening flexible.

Evening: Late meal, if timing suits

If you’re checked in and still up for dinner, head to Karim’s in the Jama Masjid area for Mughlai staples such as kebabs and rich curries; budget roughly ₹500–1,200 per person. It’s a worthwhile late meal, but go only if your arrival time and hotel location make the extra cross-city ride practical—otherwise eat near the hotel and get some rest.

Day 7 · Wed, Nov 18
Manali

Delhi to Manali by night bus

Getting there from Delhi
Overnight Volvo AC bus from Delhi to Manali, booked on HRTC, RedBus or a reputable operator: about 12–15 hours, roughly ₹1,200–3,000. Choose an evening departure on Nov 18, not an early-morning service, given the likely late arrival in Delhi the previous day; confirm the boarding and Manali drop-off points.
  1. Delhi–Manali overnight bus — Travel from the bus boarding point shown on your ticket; the journey commonly takes around 12–15 hours, with road and weather variation. Reach the boarding point early and confirm luggage rules and the exact drop-off location.
  2. Savoury or light meal near your hotel — Manali; choose a convenient café after arrival, roughly ₹300–800 per person.
  3. Hotel check-in and rest — Manali; leave the rest of the day unscheduled after the overnight road journey.
  4. Mall Road — Central Manali; take only a gentle evening stroll if you feel rested, about 30–60 minutes.

Evening: Board the overnight bus

Take your Delhi–Manali bus from the boarding point printed on your ticket; operators use different pickup locations, so don’t assume it leaves from the main bus terminal. Aim to arrive 30–45 minutes early, confirm luggage rules and save the exact Manali drop-off pin. The ride commonly takes 12–15 hours, but mountain-road conditions can add time. Keep water, a warm layer and any essentials for the night in your day bag.

Arrival morning: Eat, check in and rest

You’ll likely reach Manali on the morning of Nov. 19. After collecting your bags, take a local taxi or auto to your hotel and check whether early check-in is available; if the room isn’t ready, ask the hotel to store your luggage. For an easy meal nearby, Cafe 1947 in Old Manali is a well-known option, though it may mean an extra cab ride; a café close to your hotel is the better call if you’re tired. Budget around ₹300–800 per person, then keep the day open for check-in and proper rest.

Evening: Gentle stroll

If you feel refreshed, take a relaxed 30–60-minute walk along Mall Road in central Manali, where shops and cafés make it easy to pause whenever you like. Otherwise, skip the stroll and recover at the hotel—you have the next two days to explore.

Day 8 · Thu, Nov 19
Manali

Rest in Manali

  1. Old Manali riverside walk — Old Manali; ease into the day with a short walk, about 45 minutes.
  2. Drifters’ Inn & Cafe — Old Manali; have a relaxed breakfast or brunch, roughly ₹400–900 per person.
  3. Hidimba Devi Temple — Dhungri; see the cedar-forest temple, about 45–60 minutes.
  4. Manu Temple — Old Manali; visit the hillside temple if you are comfortable with the uphill walk, about 45 minutes.
  5. The Lazy Dog — Old Manali; settle in for dinner by the river, roughly ₹600–1,300 per person.

Morning

Ease into the day with a 45-minute Old Manali riverside walk. November mornings can be chilly, so bring a warm layer and watch for damp, uneven paths near the water. Then settle in for breakfast or brunch at Drifters’ Inn & Cafe; allow about an hour and budget roughly ₹400–900 per person. It’s a good day to keep the pace gentle after the overnight bus—take a short cab or auto between stops if you’re still tired.

Afternoon

Head to Hidimba Devi Temple in Dhungri for a 45–60-minute visit among the tall cedar trees. The temple is generally open during the day, but hours can vary; modest clothing and removing shoes inside are expected, and entry is typically free. From there, continue to Manu Temple in Old Manali. The approach is uphill, so take it slowly and consider a local cab for part of the climb if your legs are weary; allow about 45 minutes, including the walk.

Evening

Return to The Lazy Dog in Old Manali for dinner by the river. Expect roughly ₹600–1,300 per person, and bring an extra layer for the evening chill. Roads and footpaths can be dark after sunset, so arrange your ride back to the hotel rather than relying on a long walk.

Day 9 · Fri, Nov 20
Manali

Explore Manali

  1. Vashisht Temple and hot springs — Vashisht village; visit the temple complex and ask locally about current bath access, about 1–1.5 hours.
  2. Johnson’s Cafe — Circuit House Road; stop for lunch, roughly ₹600–1,300 per person.
  3. Jogini Waterfall trail — Vashisht; walk only as far as conditions and daylight comfortably allow, about 2–3 hours round trip; check trail conditions locally.
  4. Van Vihar National Park — Mall Road; enjoy an easy woodland and riverside walk, about 1 hour.
  5. Manu Market — Central Manali; browse local shops before dinner, about 45 minutes.

Morning: Vashisht village

Head to Vashisht Temple and hot springs first, in Vashisht village above Manali. A taxi or auto-rickshaw from central Manali usually takes about 15–25 minutes, depending on traffic; agree the fare before setting off or use a cab app where available. Allow 1–1½ hours for the temple complex, and ask locally whether the bathing facilities are open and what the current access arrangements are. Bring a warm layer: November mornings can be cold, and the village lanes may be damp.

Lunch

Return toward town for lunch at Johnson’s Cafe on Circuit House Road. It’s a relaxed sit-down stop, with roughly ₹600–1,300 per person to budget. Allow about an hour, longer if you want a leisurely meal before the walk.

Afternoon: Jogini Waterfall trail

From Vashisht, follow the Jogini Waterfall trail only as far as the weather, trail conditions and remaining daylight comfortably allow; plan around 2–3 hours round trip, but don’t press on if the path is slippery or visibility is poor. Check conditions with a local guesthouse or guide before starting, wear shoes with good grip, and carry water and a warm layer. Afterward, return to central Manali for an easy one-hour woodland and riverside stroll in Van Vihar National Park. Check the day’s entry hours at the gate; a small entry fee may apply.

Evening: Manu Market

Finish with about 45 minutes browsing Manu Market in central Manali, then choose dinner nearby rather than adding another cross-town trip. Keep some cash for small shops, and leave extra time for the walk between the market lanes and your hotel.

Day 10 · Sat, Nov 21
Manali

Explore Manali

  1. Naggar Castle — Naggar; take a prearranged taxi for the drive from Manali, then tour the historic castle, about 1–1.5 hours.
  2. Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery — Naggar; see the artist’s former home and works, about 1 hour; verify opening status before setting out.
  3. Riverside café in Naggar — Naggar; stop for lunch, roughly ₹400–900 per person.
  4. Gauri Shankar Temple — Naggar; visit the stone temple in the village, about 30–45 minutes.
  5. Return to Manali — Allow around 1–1.5 hours by road, with extra time for traffic and mountain conditions.

Morning: Drive to Naggar

Arrange a taxi in advance for the roughly 1–1½-hour drive from Manali to Naggar. Mountain-road travel can take longer than the map suggests, especially if there’s fog, rain, or roadwork, so set out early and agree on whether the driver will wait or return later. Start at Naggar Castle; allow 1–1½ hours to explore its traditional wood-and-stone architecture and enjoy the views over the valley. Check the day’s opening hours and entry fee before leaving.

Late morning and lunch: Naggar village

Walk or take a short local ride to the Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery, the artist’s former home and studio. Allow about an hour, but verify that it’s open before making the drive—hours or access can change. Then pause at a riverside café in Naggar for lunch; budget roughly ₹400–900 per person, and don’t rush the break.

Afternoon: Temple visit and return

Finish at Gauri Shankar Temple, a compact stone temple in the village; allow 30–45 minutes and dress respectfully. Arrange your return ride in advance, then allow around 1–1½ hours back to Manali, with extra slack for mountain conditions. Carry some cash for small entry fees and café purchases, and bring a warm layer—the valley can feel chilly even when the afternoon is bright.

Day 11 · Sun, Nov 22
Chandigarh

Return to Chandigarh

Getting there from Manali
Prebooked Volvo coach via HRTC or RedBus, or a private car if you prefer door-to-door travel: roughly 8–10 hours by coach (often longer with road conditions), around ₹800–1,800; a car is about 7–9 hours and roughly ₹10,000–16,000. Depart in the morning and keep the day clear for the mountain-road journey.
  1. Manali–Chandigarh road transfer — Leave early by a prearranged car or booked coach; budget roughly 8–10 hours or more depending on road, weather and traffic. This is a substantial travel day, so don’t add sightseeing en route.
  2. Chandigarh hotel check-in and rest — Keep the evening free after the mountain drive.
  3. Sukhna Lake — Sector 1; take a relaxed lakeside walk if you arrive before dusk, about 45–60 minutes.
  4. Indian Coffee House — Sector 17; have an easy dinner or coffee, roughly ₹200–500 per person.

Morning: Head to Chandigarh

Leave Manali early on your prebooked coach or in a car; allow around 8–10 hours or longer if road or weather conditions slow things down. Keep the day clear rather than planning stops en route. On arrival, take a taxi to your hotel, check in, and rest—the coach may drop you away from your accommodation, so allow time for that final transfer too.

Late afternoon and evening

If you’re settled in by late afternoon, head to Sukhna Lake in Sector 1 for an easy 45–60-minute walk along the promenade. Try to arrive before dusk; late-November daylight fades early, and the lakeside can feel chilly, so bring a warm layer. The walk is free; boating, if operating and available, costs extra.

For a relaxed dinner or coffee, take a cab or auto to Indian Coffee House in Sector 17. It’s an unfussy, long-running local favorite, with a simple menu and a bill often around ₹200–500 per person. Keep the rest of the evening quiet after the long travel day.

Day 12 · Mon, Nov 23
Jaisalmer

Fly to Jaisalmer

Getting there from Chandigarh
Fly with a connection, most plausibly via Delhi, booked through the airline or Google Flights/MakeMyTrip. Expect about 5–9 hours including the connection and airport transfers; roughly ₹8,000–20,000. Check the full itinerary carefully—nonstop service may not operate, and a long layover can make this an all-day trip. If no workable connection is available, take a train or flight to Jaipur and continue by overnight train or car, but this is substantially longer.
  1. Chandigarh–Jaisalmer flight journey — Confirm the actual flight itinerary before booking the hotel and onward plans; a nonstop flight may not operate, and any connection can make this an all-day transfer. Include airport access, check-in, baggage and hotel transfer.
  2. Jaisalmer Fort — Fort area; if arrival time permits, explore the living fort’s lanes, about 1–1.5 hours.
  3. Gopa Chowk — Fort entrance; browse the market streets on a short walk, about 30–45 minutes.
  4. Trio — Fort area; enjoy a rooftop dinner with fort views, roughly ₹700–1,500 per person.
  5. Hotel check-in and rest — Jaisalmer; confirm your desert excursion pickup and inclusions with the operator.

Travel and arrival

First, confirm the Chandigarh–Jaisalmer flight itinerary before locking in tonight’s plans: a connection may make this an all-day transfer, and a nonstop flight may not operate. Allow time to reach Chandigarh airport, check in and check bags, then transfer from Jaisalmer Airport to your hotel—usually around 15–25 minutes by taxi, depending on traffic. Keep the afternoon flexible; if the flight runs late, skip the sightseeing rather than rushing through it.

Late afternoon and evening

If you reach town with daylight to spare, head to Jaisalmer Fort and give its narrow, lived-in lanes about 1–1½ hours. Continue on foot to Gopa Chowk, the fort entrance, for a relaxed 30–45-minute browse through the market streets. Then settle in for rooftop dinner at Trio in the fort area; budget roughly ₹700–1,500 per person, and check current hours and availability before setting out.

After dinner, check in and rest. Confirm your desert-excursion pickup time and exactly what the booking includes with your operator—especially transport, meals and any overnight arrangements—so you’re not sorting out details first thing tomorrow.

Day 13 · Tue, Nov 24
Jaisalmer

Stay in Jaisalmer

  1. Jain Temples, Jaisalmer Fort — Fort area; admire the carved temples, allowing about 1 hour and checking current visitor access.
  2. Kothari’s Patwon Ki Haveli — Patwon Ki Haveli area; explore the richly ornamented merchant mansion, about 1–1.5 hours.
  3. Dhanraj Ranmal Bhatia Haveli — Fort area; see another fine example of Jaisalmer’s historic architecture, about 45 minutes.
  4. Gadisar Lake — Southeast of the old city; visit in the late afternoon for lakeside views, about 1 hour.
  5. Sam Sand Dunes — Outside Jaisalmer; take a prebooked, responsible desert excursion for sunset and dinner, allowing several hours door-to-door. Confirm the return time and whether the experience includes an overnight camp.

Morning

Start early at Jain Temples, Jaisalmer Fort while the fort lanes are quieter. Allow about an hour, but check current visitor hours and access rules before you go; temple entry can be restricted at certain times, and modest dress and removing shoes are expected. Continue on foot to Kothari’s Patwon Ki Haveli for its carved façades and richly decorated rooms—set aside 1–1½ hours. There may be an admission charge, so carry cash as well as a card.

Lunch and afternoon

Pause for lunch in the old city, then visit Dhanraj Ranmal Bhatia Haveli in the fort area; allow around 45 minutes and confirm it is open to visitors that day. The lanes are narrow and easy to explore on foot, but uneven stone paving calls for comfortable shoes. Head to Gadisar Lake later in the afternoon for a relaxed hour by the water; a short auto-rickshaw or taxi ride from the old city is easiest.

Evening

Arrange a responsible Sam Sand Dunes excursion in advance, including pickup, dinner, and a confirmed return time. Leave enough time to reach the dunes before sunset—the drive is roughly 45–60 minutes each way, depending on traffic and the pickup point—so don’t let the lake visit run late. Check whether your booking is a sunset-and-dinner outing or includes an overnight camp, and agree on the exact drop-off back in Jaisalmer before setting out.

Day 14 · Wed, Nov 25
Jodhpur

Travel to Jodhpur

Getting there from Jaisalmer
Train, booked on IRCTC: roughly 5–6 hours, typically about ₹200–1,500 depending on class. Book ahead and check the date’s timetable; a prebooked car is a flexible alternative at roughly 4½–5½ hours and ₹5,000–8,000.
  1. Jaisalmer–Jodhpur transfer — Take a prebooked train or car; allow about 5–6 hours door-to-door by rail including station transfers, or roughly 4.5–5.5 hours by road, plus hotel check-in.
  2. Mehrangarh Fort — Old City; spend around 2–3 hours at the major fort and museum, allowing for entry queues.
  3. Jaswant Thada — Near Mehrangarh Fort; visit the marble cenotaph and gardens, about 45 minutes.
  4. Indique — Near the Clock Tower; have dinner with views toward the fort, roughly ₹700–1,500 per person.
  5. Toorji Ka Jhalra Bavdi — Old City; see the restored stepwell on a short evening stop, about 30 minutes.

Morning: Jaisalmer to Jodhpur

Take your prebooked train or car from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur; allow roughly 5–6 hours door to door by rail, including station transfers, or 4½–5½ hours by road. An early departure is important today: check in, leave your bags, and head straight to the fort area. If your arrival is late, the full sightseeing plan may not fit before closing, so check the day’s visitor hours and be ready to trim your time at the fort rather than rush through it.

Afternoon: Fort and cenotaph

Spend around 2–3 hours at Mehrangarh Fort, exploring its museum and ramparts above the Old City. Allow extra time for entry queues; tickets and any audio guide are paid separately, and current admission hours and prices are best checked before you set out. From the fort, a short drive or walk—depending on the heat and your energy—takes you to Jaswant Thada. Give the marble cenotaph and its gardens about 45 minutes; it’s a quieter pause after the fort, but its visiting hours may limit access late in the day.

Evening: Dinner and the old lanes

For dinner, book or arrive early at Indique, near the Clock Tower, for Rajasthani and Indian dishes with a memorable view toward the fort; budget roughly ₹700–1,500 per person. Afterward, make a short stop at Toorji Ka Jhalra Bavdi, the restored stepwell in the Old City—about 30 minutes is enough to admire the steps and surrounding lanes. The walk through the old quarter is atmospheric, but the stone steps can be uneven, so take care after dark.

Day 15 · Thu, Nov 26
Jaipur

Travel to Jaipur

Getting there from Jodhpur
Train via IRCTC: about 5–6½ hours, approximately ₹300–1,800 depending on class. Choose a daytime service that fits your schedule and book ahead; a private car takes roughly 5½–7 hours and costs around ₹7,000–11,000.
  1. Jodhpur–Jaipur transfer — Take a prebooked train or car; budget roughly 5–7 hours door-to-door including station or hotel transfers, then check in.
  2. Hawa Mahal — Badi Chaupar; see the celebrated façade in the late afternoon, about 30–45 minutes.
  3. City Palace, Jaipur — Pink City; tour the palace museum, allowing about 1.5–2 hours and checking ticket options in advance.
  4. Govind Dev Ji Temple — City Palace complex; if visitor access and timing permit, attend a darshan, allowing for queues and changing temple schedules.
  5. Laxmi Mishthan Bhandar — Johari Bazaar; try Rajasthani dishes and sweets, roughly ₹300–700 per person.

Morning: Jodhpur to Jaipur

Take an early prebooked train or car from Jodhpur and allow 5–7 hours door to door, including the transfer to your station or hotel. On arrival in Jaipur, check in or leave your bags, then head into the Pink City by auto-rickshaw or app cab. This is a tight sightseeing day: the later you arrive, the less time you’ll have for the palace interiors, so check the train schedule and City Palace’s current hours before committing to the full plan.

Late afternoon and evening

See Hawa Mahal from Badi Chaupar first; 30–45 minutes is enough for the façade and photos. Then walk or take a short auto ride to City Palace, Jaipur for the museum—allow 1.5–2 hours, and check ticket options and closing time in advance. The sequence may not fit if your transfer runs late; prioritize the museum’s closing time, and enjoy the Hawa Mahal façade even if you reach it after the interior attractions have closed.

If visitor access and the changing darshan schedule allow, finish at Govind Dev Ji Temple within the City Palace complex. Confirm the day’s darshan hours locally and leave time for queues; access isn’t guaranteed. For dinner, go to Laxmi Mishthan Bhandar in Johari Bazaar for Rajasthani dishes and sweets (roughly ₹300–700 per person); the busy market lanes are easiest to navigate on foot once you’re nearby.

Day 16 · Fri, Nov 27
Agra

Travel to Agra

Getting there from Jaipur
Train via IRCTC: roughly 4–5½ hours, approximately ₹300–1,500 depending on class. Book in advance and verify the arrival station; a prebooked car via the highway takes about 4½–5½ hours and costs roughly ₹6,000–9,000.
  1. Jaipur–Agra transfer — Book a train or car in advance; allow roughly 5–6 hours door-to-door including station access, arrival transfer and hotel check-in.
  2. Agra Fort — Rakabganj; explore the Mughal fort, about 1.5–2 hours.
  3. Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb — Moti Bagh; visit the riverside tomb, about 1 hour.
  4. Peshawri, ITC Mughal — Tajganj; enjoy a sit-down dinner, roughly ₹1,500–3,000 per person.
  5. Mehtab Bagh — Across the Yamuna from the Taj Mahal; catch the sunset view if you arrive with daylight, allowing about 1 hour and checking current access.

Morning: Jaipur to Agra

Take an early train or prebooked car from Jaipur; allow about 5–6 hours door to door, including station or hotel transfers. Check your train’s arrival station before booking, and leave your bags at your Agra hotel or with the front desk if the room isn’t ready. With the transfer and check-in, this is a fairly full day, so keep the plan flexible.

Afternoon: Agra Fort and Itimad-ud-Daulah

Head to Agra Fort in Rakabganj for 1½–2 hours among its courtyards, palaces and ramparts; check current entry hours and ticket arrangements before setting out. Then take a cab to Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb in Moti Bagh. Allow about an hour to see the finely decorated tomb and its riverside gardens; the two visits plus traffic can take much of the afternoon.

Evening: Dinner and a Yamuna view

Have a relaxed dinner at Peshawri at ITC Mughal in Tajganj; budget roughly ₹1,500–3,000 per person, and check opening hours and reserve ahead. Finish at Mehtab Bagh, across the Yamuna, for a view toward the Taj Mahal; check current access hours and arrange a cab, as it’s not a convenient walk from dinner. In mid-November, sunset is early, so seeing it depends on reaching the garden before dusk—if the fort and tomb visits or dinner run late, enjoy the view in the remaining light rather than trying to rush the day.

Day 17 · Sat, Nov 28
Vrindavan

Stay in Vrindavan

Getting there from Agra
Prebooked car or taxi, arranged through your hotel or a car-hire platform: about 1½–2½ hours depending on traffic, roughly ₹2,500–4,500. This is the simplest door-to-door option; leave after your morning Taj visit and allow extra time for local traffic.
  1. Taj Mahal — Tajganj; visit early, allowing at least 2–3 hours for security and the grounds; check the official closure day and book entry through an authorized channel.
  2. Dasaprakash — Agra; have a South Indian breakfast or early meal, roughly ₹300–700 per person.
  3. Agra–Vrindavan transfer — Travel by prebooked car, allowing roughly 1.5–2.5 hours depending on traffic, then check in.
  4. Banke Bihari Temple — Vrindavan; attend darshan only if visitor access and the current schedule allow; expect dense crowds and follow temple guidance.
  5. Brijwasi Mithai Wala — Vrindavan; sample local sweets, roughly ₹150–400 per person.

Early morning: Taj Mahal

Be at the Taj Mahal in Tajganj around sunrise; it opens from sunrise to sunset and is closed on Fridays. Allow at least 2–3 hours for security and the grounds. Book entry through an authorized channel, carry the ID used for the booking, and travel light—security rules restrict what you can bring inside. November mornings can be cool, and the early light is lovely on the marble.

Breakfast and transfer

After your visit, have a South Indian breakfast or early meal at Dasaprakash in Agra; budget about ₹300–700 per person. Then take your prebooked car to Vrindavan—typically 1½–2½ hours, but traffic can add time. Check in or leave your bags at your hotel before heading to the temple.

Afternoon and evening in Vrindavan

Visit Banke Bihari Temple only if darshan is open at your arrival time: schedules can vary, and the temple may close between sessions, so check the current timings before setting out. Expect dense crowds, follow the temple’s guidance, and keep valuables secure. Finish with sweets from Brijwasi Mithai Wala; allow roughly ₹150–400 per person, and ask what’s fresh that day.

Day 18 · Sun, Nov 29
Varanasi

Travel to Varanasi

Getting there from Vrindavan
Car or taxi to Mathura Junction, then a prebooked direct train to Varanasi if a suitable service runs on Nov 29; check IRCTC. The rail leg is commonly around 10–14 hours, with fares roughly ₹500–2,500 depending on class, plus the short station transfer. Confirm the exact train and arrival time before relying on this option; otherwise arrange a confirmed connection rather than assuming a direct train.
  1. Vrindavan–Varanasi rail journey — Check current train schedules and book well ahead; allow a full day or overnight depending on the service, including station transfers. If no suitable direct train fits your plan, arrange a confirmed connection rather than assuming one.
  2. Prem Mandir — Vrindavan; visit briefly in the morning only if your train departure leaves enough time; verify entry and timings.
  3. ISKCON Vrindavan — Raman Reti; make a short visit only if it fits before station transfer.
  4. Local breakfast near your hotel — Vrindavan; choose a convenient vegetarian meal, roughly ₹150–400 per person.
  5. Varanasi arrival, hotel check-in and meal — Varanasi; keep sightseeing off the schedule after the long rail journey; choose a nearby restaurant, roughly ₹300–800 per person.

Early morning in Vrindavan

Keep the morning flexible around your confirmed train: a Vrindavan–Varanasi rail trip can take 10–14 hours, and the schedule may require a connection. Check IRCTC for the exact service and arrival station before planning anything else; if no suitable direct train runs, book a confirmed connection. A taxi to Mathura Junction usually takes about 30–45 minutes, but allow extra time for traffic, finding your platform and boarding. If your departure leaves a comfortable buffer, visit Prem Mandir briefly—confirm the day’s entry hours—and then ISKCON Vrindavan in Raman Reti. Don’t squeeze in both if it risks your train.

Have a simple vegetarian breakfast near your hotel, around ₹150–400 per person, then leave for the station with plenty of time. Keep your ticket and ID handy, carry water and snacks for the journey, and confirm your pickup point with the driver in advance.

Evening in Varanasi

On arrival, go straight to your hotel, check in and keep the rest of the day unscheduled. Choose a nearby meal—allow roughly ₹300–800 per person—and get an early night after the long travel day. If you’re staying in the old city, ask the hotel about the nearest vehicle-accessible drop-off; lanes around the ghats can be difficult to navigate with luggage.

Day 19 · Mon, Nov 30
Varanasi

Stay in Varanasi

  1. Assi Ghat — Assi; begin with a quiet morning walk along the river, about 45 minutes.
  2. Kashi Chaat Bhandar — Godowlia area; sample chaat for lunch, roughly ₹150–400 per person.
  3. Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple — Vishwanath Gali; allow substantial time for security and queues, and book through official channels where available; entry and access rules can change.
  4. Manikarnika Ghat — Old City riverfront; observe respectfully from a distance and do not photograph cremation rites.
  5. Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti — Dashashwamedh Ghat; arrive well ahead for a viewing place; boat seating and special access require advance arrangements and are not guaranteed.

Morning: Assi Ghat

Begin with a quiet 45-minute riverside walk at Assi Ghat. Early morning is cooler and calmer than later in the day; take your time along the steps and watch the city wake up. Wear shoes with a good grip—the stone can be damp—and keep valuables secure in the crowds.

Lunch: Godowlia

Head to Kashi Chaat Bhandar in the Godowlia area for lunch. Set aside about ₹150–400 per person, and expect a lively, busy stop rather than a long sit-down meal. From Assi Ghat, a cab or auto-rickshaw can get you toward Godowlia, but traffic and restricted vehicle access in the Old City may mean walking the final stretch.

Afternoon: Vishwanath Gali and the riverfront

Continue to Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Vishwanath Gali. Allow several hours for the walk through the lanes, security checks and potentially long queues. Check current entry rules and use official channels for any booking; access arrangements can change, and a booking does not remove the need to allow time for security. Afterward, make your way to Manikarnika Ghat. Observe quietly from a respectful distance; cremation rites are private, so do not take photographs.

Evening: Ganga Aarti

Walk or take an auto-rickshaw toward Dashashwamedh Ghat for the Ganga Aarti. Arrive well ahead of the ceremony to find a viewing place, and follow local directions as the riverfront gets crowded. Boat seating or special access requires advance arrangements and is not guaranteed, so plan on watching from the ghat if you have no confirmed arrangement.

Day 20 · Tue, Dec 1
Varanasi

Stay in Varanasi

  1. Subah-e-Banaras — Assi Ghat; attend the early riverside program if it is operating that morning, about 1 hour.
  2. Banaras Hindu University — Lanka; explore the campus in daylight, about 1–1.5 hours.
  3. Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum — BHU campus; see its art and archaeology collection, checking its current opening schedule before visiting.
  4. Baati Chokha Restaurant — Lanka; try regional food, roughly ₹300–700 per person.
  5. Ramnagar Fort — Ramnagar across the river; visit in the afternoon if access and travel conditions permit, allowing 1.5–2 hours plus road or boat transfer.

Early morning

If Subah-e-Banaras is operating, join the early riverside program at Assi Ghat; allow about an hour and check locally the evening before, since schedules can vary. Afterwards, take an auto-rickshaw or cab to Banaras Hindu University in Lanka—usually a short ride, traffic permitting—and spend an hour or so wandering its broad, leafy campus.

Late morning and lunch

Visit Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum on the university campus for its art and archaeology collection. Check its current hours before setting out; museum schedules and holiday closures can change. Then walk or take a short ride to Baati Chokha Restaurant in Lanka for a relaxed regional lunch; budget roughly ₹300–700 per person.

Afternoon

Head to Ramnagar Fort across the river, allowing extra time for the crossing and local traffic. A road transfer is the straightforward option; a boat may be possible, but confirm service and river conditions on the day. If access is open, leave 1½–2 hours for the fort and museum, and check current visiting arrangements before you go.

Day 21 · Wed, Dec 2
Delhi

Return to Delhi

Getting there from Varanasi
Nonstop flight on IndiGo, Air India or another operating carrier, booked through the airline or Google Flights: about 1½–2 hours in the air, around ₹4,000–12,000 before baggage and seat fees. Allow extra time for airport transfers and delays. Alternative: an overnight train via IRCTC, roughly 8–12 hours, around ₹500–3,000 depending on class.
  1. Varanasi–Delhi journey — Travel by prebooked train or flight; confirm the actual schedule and allow for station or airport access, arrival transfer and hotel check-in. Don’t plan Delhi sightseeing until the transport is confirmed.
  2. Hotel check-in and rest — Delhi; leave a buffer for delays.
  3. Lodhi Garden — Lodhi Road; take an easy late-afternoon walk among historic tombs, about 1 hour.
  4. Khan Chacha — Khan Market; have dinner, roughly ₹500–1,000 per person.
  5. India Gate — Kartavya Path; take a short evening look if you have energy, about 30–45 minutes.

Morning: Varanasi to Delhi

Keep the morning—and ideally the whole arrival window—dependent on your confirmed Varanasi–Delhi ticket. For a flight, allow roughly 4–6 hours door to door once you include the airport transfer, check-in, the flight and Delhi traffic; for a train, the rail journey itself can take around 8–12 hours, plus station transfers. Check the exact airport or station on your ticket, and don’t book Delhi sightseeing or a timed entry until you know when you’ll reach the hotel.

Afternoon: Check in and reset

Check in at your Delhi hotel and leave a generous buffer for delays. After several days on the move, a shower, food and an hour or two of rest will make the evening much more pleasant. If you arrive late, skip the outing rather than rushing across town.

Late afternoon and evening

If you have enough daylight and energy, take an easy hour-long walk through Lodhi Garden on Lodhi Road, where historic tombs sit among broad lawns and old trees. Entry is generally free, but daylight hours vary by season; a short cab ride is the simplest way to get there from most central hotel areas. Then head to Khan Chacha in Khan Market for dinner—budget about ₹500–1,000 per person. If you’re still feeling fresh, finish with a 30–45-minute look at India Gate along Kartavya Path; it’s an outdoor stop, so check traffic and allow time for the cab ride back.

Day 22 · Thu, Dec 3
Bengaluru

Fly to Bengaluru

Getting there from Delhi
Nonstop flight on IndiGo, Air India or Akasa Air, booked directly or through Google Flights: about 2½–3 hours, roughly ₹4,000–12,000. Compare airport transfer time and baggage fees when selecting a flight.
  1. Delhi–Bengaluru flight — Allow time for hotel-to-airport travel, check-in, security, the flight, baggage and airport-to-hotel transfer; confirm flight timing before planning the day.
  2. Hotel check-in and refresh — Bengaluru; keep some recovery time after the flight.
  3. Church Street — Central Bengaluru; browse the bookshops and cafés, about 1 hour.
  4. Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath — Kumara Krupa Road; explore its art galleries, checking current exhibitions and opening status.
  5. Truffles — St. Marks Road; have a casual dinner, roughly ₹500–1,000 per person.

Arrival and check-in

Allow roughly 5–7 hours door to door for the Delhi–Bengaluru flight day, including getting to the airport, check-in and security, the flight, baggage, and the transfer into town. Confirm your flight time before locking in plans; traffic from Kempegowda International Airport can make the ride to central Bengaluru take 1–2 hours or longer. Check in, freshen up, and leave a little breathing room before heading out.

Afternoon: Central Bengaluru

Browse the bookshops and cafés along Church Street for about an hour. From there, take a cab or auto-rickshaw to Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath on Kumara Krupa Road; allow around 1–1½ hours for the galleries. Check its current opening hours and exhibitions before setting out, as access can vary by gallery.

Evening: Dinner on St. Marks Road

Finish at Truffles on St. Marks Road for a relaxed, casual dinner; budget roughly ₹500–1,000 per person. If your flight lands late or runs behind, keep the gallery visit flexible and check the restaurant’s closing time before making the trip.

Day 23 · Fri, Dec 4
Bengaluru

Stay in Bengaluru

  1. Namma Bengaluru Foundation’s local market or neighborhood walk — Choose a well-reviewed market near your hotel; keep the morning flexible and avoid crossing the city unnecessarily.
  2. Commercial Street — Shivajinagar; browse Bengaluru’s busy shopping district, about 1–2 hours.
  3. Taaza Thindi — Jayanagar; enjoy a quick dosa or idli meal, roughly ₹100–250 per person.
  4. Bannerghatta Biological Park — Bannerghatta; visit only if you want a longer outing and can arrange the cross-city trip, allowing several hours; check current safari availability and book directly in advance.
  5. Hotel restaurant near your accommodation — Bengaluru; have an early, uncomplicated dinner, roughly ₹300–1,000 per person, and pack for the overnight flight.

Morning

Keep the Namma Bengaluru Foundation market or neighborhood walk close to your hotel, as intended—ask your host or hotel to suggest a well-reviewed local market rather than crossing town first thing. Then head to Commercial Street in Shivajinagar for a browse; allow 1–2 hours, and expect busy pavements and traffic. An auto-rickshaw or app cab is easiest between stops, though the ride can take longer in peak traffic.

Lunch and afternoon

Continue to Taaza Thindi in Jayanagar for a quick dosa or idli meal (roughly ₹100–250 per person). From there, Bannerghatta Biological Park is a substantial cross-city outing: allow several hours for the drive and visit, and check safari timings, availability, and direct-booking requirements before setting off. With your 3:50 a.m. flight tonight, treat the park as a long optional stop; don’t count on fitting the full visit unless you’re comfortable with a tight afternoon and have confirmed the safari.

Evening and airport

Return to your hotel for an early, uncomplicated dinner at its restaurant (about ₹300–1,000 per person), then collect your bags and arrange a late-night transfer to Kempegowda International Airport. For a 3:50 a.m. departure, plan to reach the airport around three hours beforehand; the drive from the city often takes about 1–1½ hours, but allow extra time for traffic and confirm your airline’s terminal and check-in guidance.

Day 24 · Sat, Dec 5
DFW

Fly back to DFW

Getting there from Bengaluru
International flight itinerary with one connection, commonly via Doha, Dubai, Abu Dhabi or another major hub; book through the airline or Google Flights. Allow roughly 23–30 hours total depending on the connection; typical fares are about ₹70,000–1,50,000 one way. For the stated 3:50 a.m. departure, arrange a late-night airport transfer and verify the ticket’s terminal, connection, and baggage arrangements.
  1. Hotel check-out and Bengaluru airport transfer — Leave well ahead of your 3:50 a.m. DFW departure; allow about 60–90 minutes for the drive, plus the airline’s recommended international check-in and security time.
  2. Kempegowda International Airport — Devanahalli; complete airline check-in, immigration and security, and confirm your ticket’s terminal and any connection details.
  3. Airport café or restaurant — At Kempegowda International Airport; have a simple meal or coffee while waiting, with roughly ₹300–1,000 per person depending on the venue.
  4. Bengaluru–DFW flight — Fly on your booked itinerary; verify any connections and baggage arrangements on the ticket rather than assuming a nonstop service.

Late night: Hotel check-out and airport transfer

Check out in time for your 3:50 a.m. departure from Kempegowda International Airport in Devanahalli. Arrange a hotel car or app cab in advance; the drive from central Bengaluru can take about 60–90 minutes at this hour. Add the airline’s recommended international check-in buffer, and verify your terminal and check-in counter before leaving.

At the airport

After check-in, immigration and security, grab a simple meal or coffee at an airport café or restaurant—allow roughly ₹300–1,000 per person. Keep your passport, boarding passes and connection details handy, and check your ticket for baggage rules and whether your bags are checked through to DFW.

Flight to DFW

Board your booked international itinerary to DFW. The total trip commonly takes about 23–30 hours depending on the connection; follow the connection airport and timing shown on your ticket rather than assuming a particular route.

Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version