North India 7-Day Itinerary in December 2023

1. Day 1: Delhi
   Indira Gandhi International Airport to Humayun's Tomb

   Morning: Visit Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to explore the Mughal architecture. Afternoon: Drive to the Red Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage site and marvel at the red sandstone walls. Evening: Head to India Gate, a war memorial, and take a stroll at the Rajpath.

2. Day 2: Jaipur
   4h 30min (238 km) from Delhi

   Morning: Visit the Amer Fort, a magnificent fort built in red sandstone and marble. Afternoon: Drive to the City Palace, a palace complex with a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. Evening: Shop at the local bazaars and try the famous Rajasthani cuisine.

3. Day 3: Agra
   4h 30min (240 km) from Jaipur

   Morning: Visit the iconic Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Afternoon: Head to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site that served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors. Evening: Enjoy a stroll at Mehtab Bagh, a beautiful garden complex with a stunning view of the Taj Mahal.

4. Day 4: Varanasi
   11h (710 km) from Agra

   Morning: Take a boat ride at sunrise along the Ganges river to witness the aarti (prayer) ritual. Afternoon: Visit Sarnath, a Buddhist pilgrimage site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Evening: Take a stroll along the ghats and experience the spirituality of Varanasi.

5. Day 5: Khajuraho
   6h 30min (380 km) from Varanasi

   Morning: Visit the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the finest examples of Indian art. Afternoon: Explore the Kandariya Mahadev Temple, a Hindu temple famous for its intricate sculptures. Evening: Enjoy the sound and light show at the Western Group of Temples.

6. Day 6: Amritsar
   18h (1020 km) from Khajuraho

   Morning: Visit the Golden Temple, a sacred Sikh shrine made of gold. Afternoon: Explore the Jallianwala Bagh, a public garden that commemorates the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Evening: Watch the ceremony at the Wagah Border, a daily military practice where India and Pakistan lower their flags.

7. Day 7: Chandigarh
   5h 30min (250 km) from Amritsar

   Morning: Visit the Rock Garden, a sculpture garden made of recycled materials. Afternoon: Explore the beautiful Rose Garden, a botanical garden with a vast collection of roses. Evening: Take a stroll at Sukhna Lake, an artificial lake known for its serene atmosphere.

Recommendations

Consider visiting the Ranthambore National Park for a wildlife safari or taking a side trip to the beautiful hill station of Shimla. Don't miss out on the regional delicacies such as the Chole Bhature in Delhi and the Lassi in Amritsar.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Humayun's Tomb (2 hours, £2.50)
• Red Fort (2 hours, £3)
• India Gate (1 hour, free)
• Amer Fort (3 hours, £3)
• City Palace (2 hours, £6.50)
• Taj Mahal (2 hours, £13.50)
• Agra Fort (2 hours, £4)
• Mehtab Bagh (1 hour, £1)
• Boat ride in Varanasi (2 hours, £6.50)
• Sarnath (2 hours, £3.50)
• Khajuraho Group of Monuments (3 hours, £7.50)
• Kandariya Mahadev Temple (1 hour, £2.50)
• Sound and Light show at Khajuraho (1 hour, £3)
• Golden Temple (2 hours, free)
• Jallianwala Bagh (1 hour, free)
• Wagah Border Ceremony (1 hour, free)
• Rock Garden (2 hours, £2)
• Rose Garden (1 hour, free)
• Sukhna Lake (1 hour, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: £62.50