A 15-Day Budget-Friendly Itinerary for India

  • Day 1: Delhi - Explore the vibrant streets of Delhi including the famous Chandni Chowk market; visit the historical Red Fort and Jama Masjid.
    Estimated time and distance from the last destination: 2 hours, 14 kilometers.

    Delhi is a beautiful blend of history, culture, and modernity. Visit the iconic Red Fort and explore the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk market, which is a heaven for street food lovers. Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque, is also worth seeing.

  • Day 2: Agra - Visit the Taj Mahal - one of the seven wonders of the world; explore Agra Fort and experience local street food.
    Estimated time and distance from the last destination: 3 hours, 231 kilometers.

    Experience the beauty of the iconic Taj Mahal, a symbol of love and one of the seven wonders of the world. Explore the nearby Agra Fort, known for its impressive architecture and impressive history. End the day with juicy street food such as chaats, paranthas and pethas.

  • Day 3-4: Jaipur - Visit the historic Amber Fort; explore the City Palace and Hawa Mahal; indulge in authentic Rajasthani food and shop for souvenirs in the colorful bazaars.
    Estimated time and distance from the last destination: 4 hours, 240 kilometers.

    Jaipur, known as the 'Pink City', is famous for its rich history, grand forts and palaces, and colorful bazaars. Visit the magnificent Amber Fort, located on a hilltop, and the grand City Palace. Be sure to indulge in authentic Rajasthani cuisine and haggle for souvenirs in the vibrant bazaars.

  • Day 5-6: Jaisalmer: Explore the mighty Jaisalmer Fort and museum; take a camel safari in the golden sand dunes and camp overnight.
    Estimated time and distance from the last destination: 11 hours, 558 kilometers.

    Jaisalmer is a desert city known for its grand Fort, desert safaris and camping. Visit the Jaisalmer Fort, also known as the 'Golden Fort', overlooking the city. Experience a camel safari in the golden sand dunes, and enjoy a night under the stars with a traditional Rajasthani cultural show and exciting folk music.

  • Day 7-8: Udaipur - Visit the grand City Palace, enjoy the sunset boat ride at Lake Pichola and stroll through the colorful old bazaars.
    Estimated time and distance from the last destination: 10 hours, 490 kilometers.

    Udaipur is a beautiful city known for its stunning architecture and serene lakes. Visit the grand City Palace, see the panoramic view of the city from the Monsoon Palace, and enjoy a peaceful sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola. Stroll through the colorful bazaars and indulge in Rajasthani delicacies.

  • Day 9-11: Goa - Relax on the beaches; indulge in watersports, try the local sea-food and experience the nightlife.
    Estimated time and distance from the last destination: 17 hours, 905 kilometers.

    Goa, known as the 'Beach Capital of India', is a popular travel destination for its beautiful beaches, water sports, and nightlife. Relax on beaches such as Palolem, Anjuna, and Baga; indulge in seafood delicacies and water sports. Experience the lively nightlife on the beach shacks and discotheques.

  • Day 12-13: Mumbai - Explore Gateway of India and Marine Drive; visit Elephanta Caves; enjoy street food and Bollywood tours.
    Estimated time and distance from the last destination: 12 hours, 597 kilometers.

    Known as the 'City of Dreams', Mumbai is India's largest city with bustling streets, stunning architecture, and a vibrant food and fashion scene. Visit the iconic Gateway of India and Marine Drive. Take a ferry to Elephanta Caves - UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore the ancient historical place. Indulge in delicious local street food and experience the magic of Bollywood with a tour of Film City and studios.

  • Day 14-15: Varanasi - Explore ancient temples, take a holy dip at the Ghats, witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony and shop for traditional Banarasi sarees.
    Estimated time and distance from the last destination: 16 hours, 855 kilometers.

    Varanasi is one of the oldest living cities in the world known for its rich spiritual heritage, ancient temples, and bustling Ghats along the Ganges River. Take a holy dip in the river, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, and visit the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple. End the trip by shopping for traditional Banarasi sarees, a must-have souvenir from Varanasi.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Red Fort (2 hours, 650 INR)
  • Taj Mahal (2 - 3 hours, 1200 INR)
  • Amber Fort (2 - 3 hours, 500 INR)
  • Jaisalmer Fort (2 - 3 hours, 250 INR)
  • City Palace (2 - 3 hours, 500 INR)
  • Monsoon Palace (1 – 2 hours, 75 INR)
  • Elephanta Caves (3 - 4 hours, 600 INR)
  • Varanasi Ghats (1 -2 hours, free)
  • Banarasi Sarees (2 - 3 hours, 500 INR onwards)
  • Total Estimated Costs: 4075 INR (54 GBP)

Transportation

To travel around India, you can take buses, trains, or hire a taxi. Volvo buses and trains are the cheapest and most convenient mode of transportation for intercity travel, starting from 300 INR (4 GBP) per person. You can hire a taxi for the whole day at around 2000 INR (26 GBP). Domestic flights are also available and can be booked cheaply if you book in advance.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can visit other popular destinations such as Varanasi, Rishikesh, Darjeeling, and the backwaters of Kerala. For a shorter trip, you can skip Goa and Mumbai. It's best to travel in a group to save money on transportation, guide and hotel expenses.

Airports

India's major airports are Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) in Mumbai, and Goa International Airport (GOI). Indira Gandhi International Airport is located 23 km (14 miles) from the city centre, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport is located 28 km (17 miles) from the city centre and Goa International Airport is located 24 km (15 miles) from the city centre.

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