Relaxation in India: 7-Day Itinerary

Thursday, January 11: Mumbai

Start your trip in Mumbai, the bustling city filled with energy. In the morning, visit the iconic Gateway of India and take a boat ride to Elephanta Caves, known for its ancient rock-cut temples. In the afternoon, relax at Juhu Beach and enjoy the stunning sunset. In the evening, explore the vibrant Colaba Causeway for shopping and street food.

• Gateway of India: $5 for entrance fee, 2 hours
• Elephanta Caves: $10 for boat ride, $5 for entrance fee, 4 hours
• Juhu Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
• Colaba Causeway: Varies depending on shopping, 2-3 hours

Friday, January 12: Udaipur

Travel to Udaipur, the City of Lakes. In the morning, visit the stunning City Palace overlooking Lake Pichola. Take a boat ride on the lake to Jag Mandir Palace for a peaceful retreat. In the afternoon, explore the colorful streets of the Old City and visit the famous Jagdish Temple. In the evening, enjoy a cultural show at Bagore Ki Haveli.

• City Palace: $10 for entrance fee, 2-3 hours
• Boat ride on Lake Pichola: $10, 1-2 hours
• Jag Mandir Palace: $5 for entrance fee, 2 hours
• Jagdish Temple: Free, 1 hour
• Bagore Ki Haveli: $5 for entrance fee, 1-2 hours

Saturday, January 13: Jaipur

Head to Jaipur, the Pink City. In the morning, explore the magnificent Amber Fort and enjoy an elephant ride up the hill. In the afternoon, visit the City Palace and its museum. Take a leisurely walk through the colorful markets of Johri Bazaar. In the evening, watch the mesmerizing sunset from Nahargarh Fort.

• Amber Fort: $10 for entrance fee, $15 for elephant ride, 3-4 hours
• City Palace: $7 for entrance fee, 2-3 hours
• Johri Bazaar: Varies depending on shopping, 2-3 hours
• Nahargarh Fort: $5 for entrance fee, 2 hours

Sunday, January 14: Rishikesh

Travel to Rishikesh, the Yoga Capital of the World. In the morning, attend a peaceful yoga session by the Ganges River. Explore the spiritual side at the famous Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula bridges. In the afternoon, indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage. Witness the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

• Yoga session: $10, 1-2 hours
• Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula: Free, 1-2 hours
• Ayurvedic massage: $30-$50, 1-2 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free, 1 hour

Monday, January 15: Goa

Head to Goa, known for its pristine beaches. In the morning, relax on the golden sands of Calangute Beach. Explore the vibrant markets at Anjuna and enjoy water sports at Baga Beach in the afternoon. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing sunset at Vagator Beach.

• Calangute Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
• Anjuna Market: Varies depending on shopping, 1-2 hours
• Baga Beach: Varies depending on water sports, 2-3 hours
• Vagator Beach: Free, 1-2 hours

Tuesday, January 16: Agra

Travel to Agra, home to the magnificent Taj Mahal. In the morning, visit the Taj Mahal and witness its beauty at sunrise. Explore the grand Agra Fort in the afternoon. In the evening, stroll through the local markets and try delicious street food.

• Taj Mahal: $25 for entrance fee, 2-3 hours
• Agra Fort: $10 for entrance fee, 2-3 hours
• Local markets: Varies depending on shopping, 1-2 hours

Wednesday, January 17: Varanasi

End your trip in Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India. In the morning, take a boat ride along the sacred Ganges River and witness the sunrise. Explore the ancient alleys of Varanasi and visit the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple. In the evening, attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat.

• Boat ride on the Ganges River: $10, 2-3 hours
• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: Free, 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a relaxing experience away from the crowds, visit Munnar in Kerala. This hill station is known for its breathtaking tea plantations and peaceful atmosphere. Explore the serene backwaters of Alleppey and indulge in an overnight houseboat stay for the ultimate relaxation.

Check out hotel and flight prices for your India trip here.