7-Day Itinerary: Exploring India

Wednesday, December 27: Mumbai

Start your trip in Mumbai, the bustling metropolis on the west coast of India. In the morning, visit the Gateway of India, an iconic monument overlooking the Arabian Sea. Explore the vibrant Colaba Causeway for shopping and street food in the afternoon. In the evening, take a relaxing stroll along Marine Drive, also known as the Queen's Necklace, to enjoy the beautiful sunset.

• Gateway of India: Approx. cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Colaba Causeway: Approx. cost - Variable, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Marine Drive: Approx. cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday, December 28: Jaipur

Head to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, also known as the Pink City. Begin your day by visiting the magnificent Amber Fort in the morning. Explore the historic City Palace complex in the afternoon, which houses museums and stunning architecture. In the evening, wander through the colorful markets of Jaipur, such as Johari Bazaar, to shop for handicrafts and jewelry.

• Amber Fort: Approx. cost - INR 500 (foreigners), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• City Palace: Approx. cost - INR 700 (foreigners), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Johari Bazaar: Approx. cost - Variable, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Friday, December 29: Agra

Travel to Agra, home to the iconic Taj Mahal. Start your day by admiring the breathtaking beauty of the Taj Mahal in the morning. Visit the Agra Fort in the afternoon, a UNESCO World Heritage site with impressive architecture and historical significance. In the evening, explore the local markets and indulge in delicious Mughlai cuisine.

• Taj Mahal: Approx. cost - INR 1,300 (foreigners), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Agra Fort: Approx. cost - INR 650 (foreigners), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Local Markets: Approx. cost - Variable, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Saturday, December 30: Udaipur

Head to Udaipur, often referred to as the Venice of the East. Begin your day by visiting the beautiful City Palace in the morning, which offers panoramic views of Lake Pichola. Take a boat ride on Lake Pichola in the afternoon to visit the famous Lake Palace. In the evening, explore the narrow lanes and markets of the Old City.

• City Palace: Approx. cost - INR 300 (foreigners), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Lake Pichola Boat Ride: Approx. cost - INR 400 (foreigners), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Old City Markets: Approx. cost - Variable, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday, December 31: Varanasi

Experience the spiritual charm of Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in the world. Begin your day by witnessing the mesmerizing sunrise at the banks of the Ganges River. Take a boat ride along the river to observe the traditional rituals and ceremonies. In the evening, visit the ghats to witness the magical Ganga Aarti ceremony.

• Sunrise at Ganges River: Approx. cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Ganges River Boat Ride: Approx. cost - INR 200 (foreigners), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Ganga Aarti Ceremony: Approx. cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, January 1: Delhi

Explore the vibrant city of Delhi, India's capital. Start your day with a visit to the historic Red Fort in the morning. Discover the architectural splendor of Humayun's Tomb in the afternoon. In the evening, explore the bustling markets of Chandni Chowk and indulge in the delicious street food.

• Red Fort: Approx. cost - INR 600 (foreigners), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Humayun's Tomb: Approx. cost - INR 600 (foreigners), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Chandni Chowk: Approx. cost - Variable, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Tuesday, January 2: Goa

End your trip in the tropical paradise of Goa. Relax on the beautiful beaches in the morning. Explore the charming streets of Old Goa and visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus in the afternoon. In the evening, enjoy the vibrant nightlife and beachside shacks.

• Goa Beaches: Approx. cost - Free, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Old Goa: Approx. cost - Variable, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Basilica of Bom Jesus: Approx. cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring India, make sure to visit the hidden gem of Hampi, an ancient UNESCO World Heritage site in Karnataka. Wander through the magnificent ruins and marvel at the intricate stone carvings. Don't miss the local favorite street food in Kolkata, such as puchka (pani puri) and kathi rolls, for a flavorful culinary experience.

For hotel and flight prices, check out KAYAK.