travel routes in india

• TALK WITH US
• English English Deutsch Français Español Polish Dutch Italiano

Travel Routes through India: Explore India in 4 weeks

Last Updated on November 21, 2023

Travelling in India for a month? This article will explore travel routes through India in one month. The famous saying goes, ‘a life time is not enough to explore all of India’ , and rightly so. Therefore, we suggest that one month in India is the least amount of time you would want to spend here.

There is no single best route to travel across India, so we have provided 5 different routes. Each outline covers 4 weeks in India and includes an overview of the routes, the destinations, the highlights, and the modes of travel.

The suggested routes are moderate to fast-paced trips, that contain the drawbacks of the tours. They also have an approximate indicative budget for each route, going from backpackers to luxury travellers. You can compare different routes of travelling in India and see what you should be prepared to miss out on. The E-Visa and Visa On Arrival have made India a much simpler place to get to for travellers wanting to visit India.

Read more to understand the best time to visit India and cost of travel in India.

Table of Contents

travel routes through India – route 1: the classic north and south

Route 1: delhi – varanasi – agra – jaipur – jaisalmer – jodhpur – udaipur – mumbai – goa – hampi – kerala ( route on googlemaps ).

This travel route through India is one of the most popular month-long routes for travellers, especially with backpackers . This route has you starting in the historically rich capital of Delhi. Head east to visit Varanasi, one of the oldest continually inhabited cities known to civilization. Travel west to visit the Taj Mahal, and then loop around the desert state of Rajasthan.

While traveling in India, you’ll get to explore cities rich in culture and character in Rajasthan (Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur). You can also take part in the Camel Safari & the Desert Camp in Jaisalmer. End the northern leg of your trip in Udaipur before taking a bus or flight to Mumbai. Travelling to the South is more relaxing, as you’ll be travelling along the same coast as Mumbai . Relax on the beaches in Goa. Explore the boulders and rice fields of the time-bound Hampi. Visit the beautiful state of Kerala known for its backwaters and its tea plantations.

For a more detailed explanation on travelling in India and the best things to do in North India and South India , visit our blogs.

Explore More: Discover Exciting Activities in India

Depending on when you are looking to travel, this travel route through India can be quite busy. This is one of the most frequented routes by travellers wanting to visit India. If you plan on picking it, we suggest you ensure all your transport and accommodation is booked well in advance .

Since all these places are popular among tourists, it’s likely you will bump into more than a few on this trip. While that isn’t always a bad thing, but if you’d like to avoid the crowds we’d suggest you travel a little early (mid July – September) .   While the North would have great weather, the South would be wet, but beautiful.

Backpacker! Boutique! or mix and match, we can help you plan a well thought and cost effective month across India.

Cost of a four week tour across North and South India?

In terms of backpacking – dorm beds, day and overnight trains and a possible flight – you could potentially do this tour for as little as 700 EUR. Together, we can cater to your budget when booking hotels and modes of transport. Travelling in India isn’t extremely expensive in regards to spending money, for example, the food is cheap yet healthy.

route 2: a glimpse of the mountains

Route 2: delhi – dharamshala – amritsar – rishikesh – delhi – jaipur – jaisalmer – jodhpur – udaipur – pushkar – agra – varanasi ( route on googlemaps ).

Being home to a billion people, a million Gods and plenty of wacky rituals, India is also home to the incredible Himalayas. This is the best possible travel route for people who have only a month in India and want to combine their trip to India with a trek in Nepal (Everest Base Camp/Annapoorna Mountain Pass).

You will begin your trip in Delhi, a city extremely central to some of the most prominent locations in North India. From here on, head north to Dharamshala (home to the Dalai Lama), followed by Amritsar (known for the beautiful Golden Temple) and Rishikesh (the Yoga capital of the world, also known for its adventure sports).

After Rishikesh, you come back to Delhi before heading southwest, this time in to Rajasthan. Start with the state’s three gems – Jaipur, Jodhpur & Udaipur – before visiting Pushkar and Agra and then taking an overnight train to Varanasi. Varanasi is quite intense, it’s one of the oldest civilizations in the world and also a great place to end your trip in India. If you’re up for an adventurous assault on the senses, you can take a bus from Varanasi into Nepal.

Luxury Getaways: Hotels in India

Like the first route, this is also extremely popular among travellers, so if you decide to take it, you might want to book your train tickets well in advance. It is a hectic route, so we would recommend it to active travellers.

Apart from that, this is a good route to cover three regions (the Himalayas, Rajasthan and Varanasi) in the month you have in India.

Here’s what our guests who travelled to India with us had to say.

Cost of a mountain tour in India

Again if you plan to backpack, take train and buses you can do the tour for as little as 600 EUR/ 700 USD per person. You would want to double your budget to travel comfortably.

route 3: Exploring the south

Route 3: mumbai – goa – hampi – mysore – bangalore – chennai/pondicherry – trichy/thanjavur – madurai –  munnar – thekkady – alleppey – kochi – varkala ( route on googlemaps ).

As a country, India has a myriad of facets and each region is often drastically different from the last. This travel route through India (the South) will be extremely gratifying – a full trip in itself.

Fly into Mumbai and head South to the fabulous beach state of Goa. Next, you can catch a bus or train to the evergreen Hampi and then spread out across Karnataka from royal Mysore to urban Bangalore before moving southeast to Chennai. Take a long break in Francophile Pondicherry or break it up with the southern spice of Trichy and Madurai. End the trip on the beach in Varkala or carry on to the stunning hill station of Munnar, and the backwaters in Alleppey.

For more detailed information about the best things to do in the South of India , read our blogs. Drawbacks South India is a beautiful region to explore, but it is slightly more expensive compared to the North. Flying into Mumbai and staying there can be quite expensive. There aren’t too many budget options in the South, even though there has been a rise in the number of hostels. It’s also sometimes convenient in the South to hire a car to get from one place to another, which racks up a higher bill than buses.

Plan your journey from the US to India with this helpful resource

route 4: mix it up in south india

Route 4 :  mumbai – goa – hampi – mysore – wayanad – calicut – kochi – munnar – thekkady – alleppey – varkala ( route on googlemaps ).

This route, like the previous one, is all about exploring South India. However, while traveling in India on this route, you will not be travelling southeast. You’ll fly into Mumbai and head South to Goa, Hampi and Mysore before crossing into Kerala and spending the rest of your days exploring God’s own country.

This route is more relaxed and moves at a slower pace than the others, giving you time to soak in the beauty of the South without dropping dead from exhaustion. Getting from Mumbai to Goa to Hampi by bus is not tough, but if you throw in a few trains and maybe a car hire, it’ll be easier.

Drawbacks 

Limited to the South alone, and includes all the same drawbacks as the previous route.

Kerala Awaits: Explore the Best Time to Visit

ROUTE 5: THE NORTH AND THE NORTH EAST

Route 5 :  delhi – bagdogra – gangtok – ravangla – pelling – namchi – darjeeling – kolkata – varanasi – khajuraho – orchha – agra – jaipur – jaisalmer – jodhpur – udaipur – pushkar – delhi ( route on googlemaps ).

The Himalayas, the Taj Mahal and the serene backwaters are a few things that people associate with India. And rightly so! However, India is also home to the divine but underrated Northeast, a virtual paradise nestled in the out-flung arm of the country. So when travelling in India remember this gem as well.

If you are looking to go off the beaten track, this is a great travel route for you to take . Travel through Bagdogra, Gangtok, Ravangla , Pelling, Namchi and Darjeeling, then make your way west to Kolkata; one of the oldest metros in the country. From there you can catch a train to Varanasi, then move through Khajuraho (known for it’s erotic temples), Orchha (the quintessential Indian town), Agra and Rajasthan, before heading back to Delhi.

See Also: Dive into Rajasthan’s Charismatic Destinations

Apart from being diverse, India is also simply large. You may have to take a few flights, Delhi – Badgogra, or Bagdogra – Kolkata to save time, since there is only a month and so much to see and do in it. Travelling in the Northeast could be slightly more expensive as the local transport, though very economical, is inconsistent with its timings. You may want to trade some of your other luxuries on the trip for a comfortable car ride.

Places like Khajuraho and Orchha are beautiful places to visit, but make sure you’ve made travel arrangements in advance. There is a dearth of options and not very great connectivity either.

Further, depending on the time of year you are planning to travel, the North and Northeast can get pretty cold, especially in the mountains. For more information on travelling in India, contact us or check out our blog . Don’t have a month? Here are a few two week itineraries you could follow for North India or the South India . For any further assistance, or for help with planning the trip of a lifetime, simply click on Plan Your Trip .

About Harsh Sonawala

Harsh Sonawala is the co founder of India Someday and since his childhood, he has travelled to different parts of India and the world. The thrill of travelling and sharing his experiences with others was the reason behind starting India Someday. Other than the office where he is conjuring up marketing ideas, he can be found scuba diving in the Andamans or relaxing in a chalet in the Himalayas.

helping you travel your way

Everything you need to know about India is here We have tried writing about everything you may need help with for your trip to India, If you need help in planning a trip to India Get in touch with us to to plan your trip of a life time.

find out how

let our clients tell you why us

Tripadvisor

you might also like

World’s Most Holi-Obsessed Countries 2024 – India Ranks 8th

Can you believe that India is not the most Holi-Obsessed County in the.....

Best Places to Visit in Bundi

Bundi stands as a testament to the grandeur of India's historical past.....

Best Places to Visit in Gujarat

Welcome to Gujarat, a region that beckons with a blend of history, cul.....

Best Places to Visit in Uttar Pradesh

Welcome to Uttar Pradesh, a state that weaves together the threads of .....

Best Places to visit in Kerala

Welcome to Kerala, the picturesque paradise nestled in the southwester.....

Best Places to visit in Mandawa

Mandawa is a hidden gem that beckons travelers with its vibrant histor.....

Best Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu

Here is my list of the best places to visit in Tamil Nadu. In general .....

Nora the explorer trip to india march 2024

Best Places to Visit in Sikkim

If you are somebody who enjoys travelling to faraway places, experienc.....

Sustainable travel routes and travel ideas for India

In a warming planet, travel is always a moral dilemma for an environme.....

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Hey. My name is Callum and I found your blog through Hippie in Heels. Me and my girlfriend are heading to India for a month is September so this article is super interesting and helpful.

I was wondering if you think that if would be possible to see some of Kerala (flying in from Sri Lanka), before heading north to Mumbai eventually flying to Delhi to explore the surrounding area and some of Rajasthan? Having not been to the country I wouldn’t want to rush it or overlook certain areas by fitting too much in.

Any feedback would be appreciated 🙂

Hi Callum, We are so sorry we missed this comment. If you travel for one month you can certainly combine the south and north of India but it might be a little rushed. But that depends on how many destinations you visit in each region and how you travel in between the regions. Be in touch and we can figure it out together: [email protected]

Best, Your India Someday Team

Hi. Route 1 lookjs great. Is this based on pr8vate transport or public. Also, woukd going to pondicherry after kerala be doable. What cities would fly into and out of?

Hi Michelle,

We can plan any transport and according to any budget you like. Pondicherry after Kerala would only be possible with another domestic flight to Chennai, everything else would take too long. Get in touch with us to plan your trip and we figure something out for you.

Your India Someday Team

India Itineraries

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• itineraries
• Travel guide
• Itineraries
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

Had an awesome experience. Must plan your travel with this company.

India’s simply too vast and too complex to explore in a single trip. It makes more sense to focus on one, two or perhaps three regions, depending on your time frame. The following India itineraries showcase both the classic attractions and less well-known gems of six distinct areas, from the icy heights of the Himalayas to the sweltering tropical backwaters of Kerala.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for India, created by local experts

13 days  / from 1800 USD

A Trek Through Ladakh's Markha Valley

Trek through the Markha Valley, taking in the jaw-dropping Himalayan landscape, camp in traditional mountain villages, and discover hilltop monasteries. This unique journey combines the culture of the Buddhist faith with the natural beauty of the mountains and the hustle and bustle of Delhi.

15 days  / from 2745 USD

Rajasthan: The Land of Kings

Experience the Land of Kings in luxury.This trip around Rajasthan takes you to Jaipur's palaces, sacred pilgrimage sites and deep into the desert hills. Breathe in the excitement of Delhi and visit the Taj Mahal. Then come nightfall, lay your head to rest in former royal palaces and magical forts.

6 days  / from 785 USD

The Holy City of Varanasi

The flat, sunburnt plains of the Ganges River are India's breadbasket: a densely populated area, it is home to many of the country's greatest sights. See Delhi and all its treasures, then fly to Varanasi, the most sacred stretch of the Ganges and one of India's most intense and atmospheric places.

Tailor-made trips for   India

Recommended India itineraries

India, a land of diverse cultures, landscapes, and histories, offers an array of experiences, from the majestic Himalayas in the north to the serene backwaters of Kerala in the south. 

Our local travel expert, Ravi, says, ' India is not just a destination; it's a vibrant tapestry of experiences waiting to be discovered. With our tailor-made trips, you get more than just a holiday; you embark on a journey curated just for you. '

If you are planning your travel to India, use these itineraries created by our travel experts as a starting point for inspiration.

Looking for an India itinerary by duration? 10 days - 14 days

India Itinerary 1 - The Golden Triangle - 1 week

No other region of India packs in as many awe-inspiring monuments as the so-called “Golden Triangle” connecting Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. Allow at least a week to complete the circuit, with a diversion south to the tiger reserve at Ranthambore if you’ve time to spare.

• Delhi - Start out at Shah Jahan’s mighty Red Fort in the Mughal Old City, then work your way south through the medieval monuments of the southern suburbs.
• Agra - Cross the Yamuna River by boat in the early morning for an unforgettable view of the Taj just after sunrise, then spend the rest of the day ticking off the city’s other Mughal splendours.
• Fatehpur Sikri - Overnight at a guesthouse below the deserted capital of emperor Akbar to see its deep red sandstone architecture at its most ethereal, in the diffuse light of dusk and dawn.
• Keoladeo National Park - Bicycle safaris along the dirt tracks and banks that crisscross this teeming bird reserve offer a perfect antidote to the noise and traffic of India’s northern cities.
• Jaipur - Approach the ochre-walled palace of Amber Fort on elephant back, before spending a day in the textile and gemstone bazaars of the Rajasthani capital – a riot of quintessentially Indian colour.
• Shekhawati - Set on the fringes of the Thar Desert, the painted havelis (walled mansions) in the market towns of this once rich area make the ideal stopover on the journey back to Delhi.

India Itinerary 2 - Around the "Land of Kings" - 1 month

You’ll need at least a month to really do justice to India’s dazzling desert state, Rajasthan, or three weeks at a pinch.

• Jaipur - The Pink City, with its hectic streets and flamboyant Rajput architecture, is a real baptism of fire.
• Ranthambore - If sighting a tiger is a priority, aim to spend at least a couple of nights at a camp near this world-famous reserve.
• Pushkar - Ringed by the white domes and sacred ghats of Hindu shrines, Pushkar makes a perfect base for leisurely desert walks and souvenir hunts.
• Udaipur - Dine by candlelight on a haveli rooftop for the ultimate view of the Sisodia maharanas’ fairytale palaces.
• Jodhpur - Rajasthan’s most spectacular medieval fortress, Mehrangarh, towers above the warren-like old city painted a hundred shades of sky blue.
• Jaisalmer - A long trip across the Thar is rewarded by the sublime vision of Jai Sigh’s yellow-stone citadel floating above the sand flats.
• Bikaner - Quirky architecture and a temple where thousands of rats run free are two vestiges of this city’s former prominence on the trans-Thar caravan route.
• Nawalgarh - After a succession of big cities, this small town on the fringes of the desert makes an enjoyable base for trips to nearby forts and havelis.

Taj Mahal, India

India Itinerary 3 - The Deep South - 3 weeks

The Deep South offers dramatic landscapes and world-class monuments. You’ll need at least three weeks to cover this route comfortably, or two at a rushed pace with your own transport.

• Chennai - The old colonial hub of Fort St George is the standout sight of the Tamil capital, but there’s also a wealth of succulent southern cuisine on offer.
• Mamallapuram - Sculpted by the Pallava kings, Mamallapuram holds a tempting combination of ancient stonework and breezy tropical beaches.
• Puducherry - Soak up the lingering Gallic ambience of France’s former colony on the Coromandel Coast, ideally from the confines of a heritage hotel.
• Thanjavur - The mighty Brihadishwara Temple and collection of Chola bronzes in the town’s art gallery make Thanjavur the perfect springboard for the Kaveri Delta region.
• Tiruchirapalli (Trichy) - Gaze from the summit of Trichy’s exotic rock fort across the Kaveri River to the largest temple complex in India.
• Madurai - The shrine of the Fish-Eyed Goddess is Tamil Nadu’s greatest living monument, renowned for its multicoloured, deity-encrusted gateway towers.
• Periyar - Scale the Western Ghat range to enter Kerala’s Cardamom Hills, where the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary offers the chance to sight elephants.
• Alappuzha - This former colonial trading port provides the entry point for trips into the surrounding backwater region of Kuttanad – a watery world like no other in Asia.
• Fort Cochin - The heritage hotels, arty cafés and funky boutiques of Kerala’s historic harbour town are the ideal end point for a tour of India’s far south.

India Itinerary 4 - Himalayan odyssey - 2-3 weeks

Experience the contrasting landscapes of the world’s greatest mountain range with this two- to three-week journey from the northern plains to the fringes of the Tibetan Plateau and idyllic Vale of Kashmir.

• Shimla - Trundle on the toy train from Kalka through the foothills to this quintessentially Raj-era hill station.
• Manali - Lush forests of deodar cedars, apple orchards and giant, ice-dusted summits flank the hill resort of Manali, in the Kullu Valley – starting point of the trans-Himalayan highway.
• Leh - A breathless, two-day journey across a vast desert of scree and dizzying passes brings you to the capital of Ladakh, marooned in the high Indus Valley.
• The Ladakhi lakes - Charter a jeep for the trip southeast to the hypnotically beautiful altitude lakes of Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri.
• Kargil - Fairytale Buddhist monasteries and stupendous mountain scenery characterize the long haul to the mid-point on the journey to Kashmir.
• Srinagar - Laze on the deck of a houseboat sipping spiced tea while the shadows lengthen on the surrounding mountainsides and shikara canoes filled with fruit and flowers paddle past.

India Itinerary 5 - Rhododendrons and red pandas - 10 days

Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is the launch pad for this classic trip through the tea estates around Darjeeling to Sikkim, a beautiful, predominantly Buddhist region in the lap of the Himalayas. You could cover the route in a fortnight; with an additional week, consider a multistage trek into the high country further north.

• Kolkata - Join the flood of commuters crossing the Howrah Bridge, admire the spectacular monuments of the British Empire and discover one of India’s tastiest regional cuisines.
• Darjeeling - Amazing views of distant Kanchenjunga, a quaint Raj-era vibe and the famous Toy Train ride up from the plains account for the perennial appeal of India’s principal tea hub.
• Rumtek - A quiet alternative to nearby Gangtok (the Sikkimese capital), Rumtek is also the site of a spectacular Buddhist monastery.
• Maenam Sanctuary - Tackle the lung-stretching, 1000m ascent of Maenam mountain from Ravangla town for a tantalizing panoramic view of the snow peaks to the north.
• Pemayangtse - The poster boy for northeast Himalayan monasteries, Pemayangtse offers the added bonus of spectacular vistas of Kanchenjunga.
• Varshey Rhododendron Sanctuary - Travellers with a botanical bent shouldn’t miss the chance to trek through this tract of pristine rhododendron forest, home to red pandas and black bears.

India Itinerary 6 - The Deccan Trail - 3 weeks

Despite its extraordinary wealth of historic monuments, the Deccan region of central India sees comparatively few visitors. The rewards for those who do make it are considerable: a succession of astonishing temple sites, crumbling tombs, mosques and deserted capitals spanning sixteen centuries of civilization. Allow at least three weeks for this unforgettable trip.

• Hyderabad - The convoluted ruins of medieval Golconda, on the outskirts of the city, followed by a climb of the Charminar (“Four Minarets”) mosque and a slap-up Hyderabadi feast are the perfect preamble for what lies ahead.
• Bidar - Resembling a town on the Central Asian Silk Route, Bidar’s rambling fort-palace, madrasa, tombs and metal workshops recall this region’s medieval Persian roots.
• Vijayapura (Bijapur) - For three centuries, Bijapur served as the capital of the Deccan. An unparalleled crop of monuments survive from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, including India’s largest domed tomb, the mighty Gol Gumbaz.
• Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal - The Deccan’s ancient Hindu heyday is represented by this trio of wonderful sites – a feast of enigmatic rock-cut caves, monkey-infested temples and tumbledown forts – in the middle of nowhere.
• Hampi - Rent a bicycle to explore the expansive, beautifully carved remains of medieval India’s most splendid city, set amid a dreamy landscape of banana groves and boulder hills.
• Gokarna - This compact pilgrimage town on the Konkan coast holds plenty of traditional atmosphere, and a crop of gorgeous beaches around the headland to the south.
• Goa - For a self-indulgent spell soaking up the rays and surf of the Konkan, Goa’s hard to beat. Aim for one of the less-developed resorts such as Agonda or Patnem in the south of the state.
• Travelling across central India from Mumbai on the Arabian Sea to Puri on the Bay of Bengal gives you the chance to see some of the country’s most compelling attractions, relax by the beach, and then fly out from Kolkata. Realistically, you’ll need a month for this route, though it could be done in three weeks at a canter.
• Mumbai - Dynamic and exhilarating, this vast megalopolis bombards the senses with the extremes of urban India, and is an excellent place to sample some of the country’s finest dining.
• Aurangabad - A superb base from which to visit the breathtaking cave sculptures and carvings at Ellora and Ajanta. Check out, too, the city’s own “false Taj”, the Bibi-ka-Maqbara.
• Khajuraho - Hidden away in India’s very centre, this medieval temple complex is decorated with the most eye-popping array of erotica you’ll find on any religious building anywhere.
• Lucknow - Visit the now-ruined Residency in the capital of Uttar Pradesh, where a besieged British contingent famously held out for five months during the 1857 uprising. Don’t leave without sampling the city’s succulent dum pukht cuisine.
• Varanasi - The spiritual capital of India, and one of the oldest cities on earth, where you can see bathing and cremations by the sacred River Ganges, and watch the kids fly their kites from your terrace while monkeys scurry around the rooftops.
• Bodhgaya - The Buddha achieved enlightenment while sitting under a bodhi tree at Bodhgaya, one of a trio of sacred Buddhist sites within easy striking distance of Varanasi.
• Puri - Home of the famous annual Jagannath “Car Festival” (Rath Yatra), Puri is also a low-key beach resort, popular with Indian families and Western backpackers, and an excellent place to recharge your batteries.

The Rough Guides to India and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for India

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to India

• Mumbai, India
• Culture and Etiquette in India
• How to get a visa to India
• Eating and drinking in India
• How to get to India
• Getting around India: Transportation Tips
• Travel Health India
• Maharashtra, India
• Shopping tips for India
• Travel Tips India for planning and on the go
• Sports and Outdoor activities in India
• Best time to visit India

Find even more inspiration here

written by Andy Turner

updated 15.12.2023

Ready to travel and discover India?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Travel advice

We’re on the road right now – join in on the fun and follow @thebrokebackpacker on IG!

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Asia » India » Backpacking Guide

Backpacking India Travel Guide (Tips + Secrets • 2024)

Backpacking India… It’s a hell of an experience. I have visited India five times now, spending nearly two years backpacking across this crazy sub-continent.

When I was nineteen, following a life-changing injury, I threw all of my shit into a battered pack and caught a one way flight to Delhi, I had just $2700 to my name and was able to make this last over a year whilst backpacking in India.

The wonderful thing about backpacking India is that pretty much anybody can afford it, especially if you don’t mind being a little uncomfortable.

I jumped off the deep end and hitchhiked, couchsurfed and slept rough a lot to make my travel dreams a reality but, to be honest, backpacking in India is so cheap that you don’t really need to do this… A budget of just $500 a month will go a long way when backpacking India and it’s possible to do it for far less.

Why Go Backpacking in India?

Since I was nineteen, I’ve been coming back to India again and again. Often I promise myself that this will be the last time and like many India backpacking veterans, I have a love/hate relationship with India!

Your first time in India may well come as something of a shock even for experienced travellers. It is generally dirty, crowded, noisy, chaotic and frustrating. There are wild animals everywhere, a lot of extreme poverty and widespread dilapidation. Some of the local customs also take some serious adapting to – get used to been stared at, hassled, scammed & having your personal space invaded.

So yes, the real India can be a real challenge but, for adventurous backpackers, India offers some of the most incredible exploring in all of Asia. If it gets under your skin, you will keep on coming back time and time again. Visiting the beautiful places in India is a task worth taking on.

Best Travel Itineraries For Backpacking India

After nearly a total of two years backpacking in India, I reckon I’ve only seen about half of this truly incredible, massive, country. The country is so big that is really does make sense to plan your backpacking route before you rock up and to focus on seeing one part of India at a time.

There are plenty of amazing spots to explore but you need to be sure you choose the right spots at the right time – you don’t want to be travelling in the Great Thar Desert during summer!

To make things a bit easier, I’ve popped together some different backpacking routes for India; these can easily be combined or added together to create the absolute perfect India itinerary.

But whatever India backpacking route you take, prepare to be astounded, amazed and a little bit frustrated! You need at least one month in India to enjoy these itineraries.

Backpacking India 1-Month Itinerary # 1 – Spiritual Extravaganza

Rajasthan (paired with Varanasi) is a great introduction to backpacking India! This is an area that checks most boxes – There are plenty of chilled out sites well on the backpacker radar but if you dig a little deeper you can find isolated villages and hidden temples rarely visited by travellers.

After getting your bearings and hopefully avoiding getting scammed in New Delhi , head on over to Varanasi for the spiritual experience of a lifetime. After a quick stop in off beat Khajuraho , settle into Agra to see the Taj Mahal, AKA the most famous landmark in India.

Then it’s time to experience Rajasthan, one of my favorite places in India. Jaipur will serve as a sweet introduction–it’s quite a nice Indian city–where as Pushkar is like a desert version of Goa. Bundi is a true gem, and a place you shouldn’t rush through. Package tourists don’t make it here.

Finish off your epic Rajasthani adventure with the big three, Jodhpur (known as the Blue City), Jaisalmer , and Udaipur . A better trip through one of India’s most beautiful states doesn’t exist.

One important thing to note is that Rajasthan can be damn hot… This means that you really, really want to try and explore this part of India during November to March; outside of these months, it can be fairly unbearable.

Backpacking India 1-Month Itinerary # 2 – Off the Beaten Track Adventures in South India  

This is perhaps the best South India travel itinerary for explorers keen to see a bit of the real India before diving into the heady parties of Goa and Gokarna.

Bangalore is a tech hub of sorts and one of India’s cleaner cities, but don’t spend more than a few days here before heading to the very offbeat Kodagu –don’t be surprised if you’re the only foreigner in town.

Next up, take a relatively short local bus to Mysore , which is easily my favorite city in India. It’s clean, has some delicious street food and is pretty easy to manage overall. A night train is the best way to move onwards to Fort Kochi , a cheeky little beach town that checks every box of what you’d want from a sticky place.

You final two stops will bring you back to the tourist trail, but rest assured that it will be worth it. The back waters of Alleppey are best seen from the local boats, and even popular Varkala (which can be reached by train or bus) has plenty of hidden spots to get off the beaten track in.

Backpacking India 1-Month Itinerary # 3 – Mountains and Yoga in Northern India

Traveling to the Subcontinent to find yourself? Then this Backpacking India itinerary may be for you.

The Himalayas are unlike any other part of India, mountains have always held a special place in my heart and the Indian mountains are some of the best in the world… although not quite as incredible as neighbouring Pakistan, the ultimate adventure destination !

If you’re coming from said neighbour, you’ll be starting right in Amritsar , which is home to the famous Golden Temple and legendary Sikh hospitality. Otherwise, break your Rishikesh virginity, though do be warned that it will be an absolute zoo in May and June.

Once you’ve got that out of the way–it’s time for the mountain fun to begin! First head to Mcleod Ganj , a spiritual mecca home to the famous Dalai Llama. Be warned–it’s easy to get stuck here! Next, make a stop in Bhagsu before moving on to Manali .

These days Manali is a commercialized mess, so I highly encourage you to get to the more authentic Vashshist as SOON as possible. The hippie vibes are only beginning amigos, as the mountainous roads will then lead you to Kasol , the main hub of the iconic Parvati Valley.

After enjoying hashish, trance and natural beauty for days, answer the Himalayas’ call and get yourself on the next HRTC bus to Leh , capital of Ladakh.

After you’ve spent a solid amount of time living the high-altitude life, it’s time for Srinigar , the capital of India’s portion of Kashmir. I highly recommend giving this region the time it deserves. It might be more expensive than you’d like, but Pakistan’s Azad Kashmir is very hard to travel in as a foreigner so get your fix here!

Be warned; travelling in the Himalayas is uncomfortable, tiring and sometimes dangerous. It is worth getting to grips with your route before you go travelling in India, planning on the road doesn’t work so well in the Himalayas as the roads have a tendency to get washed away!

Best Places To Visit In India

You can spend a lifetime and still not see everything this mega-country has to offer, but I think these are the very best places in India that you just shouldn’t miss…

Backpacking Delhi

Many backpackers arriving in India for the first time will start their adventure by staying in Delhi , which is unfortunate.

Delhi is probably my least favourite city in the whole world and whilst it may have some hidden charms, I have yet to find them despite visiting the city over half a dozen times. The traffic is crazy, and driving my multicolored rickshaw through the streets was a truly nutty and hair-raising experience.

Delhi is not one of the friendliest places in India. When you arrive into Delhi’s main airport, catch a metro into town and make your way to the Panchsheel area; this is where you can find the widest array of backpacker-friendly accommodation, and is the best area in Delhi to stay in. Some of the best hostels in Delhi are in Paharganj and more quieter, cleaner options can be found in the upscale South Delhi area.

In general, I recommend getting the heck out of Delhi as quickly as possible… There are plenty of much lovelier places within India to spend your time. However, if you do want a better and more comfortable experience, there are some pretty epic Delhi Airbnbs to choose from.

Backpacking Varanasi

You can’t explore India without having a proper Varanasi experience… I say experience because Varanasi is totally nuts and will leave you reeling as you navigate through twisting alleys, passing holy men and funeral processions, stray cows and colourful stores selling silken saris.

Make your way to the river and catch a sunset boat ride on the Ganges, the most holy river in Hinduism. On the way, make sure to pick up one of the best lassis in all of India at Blue Lassi in the market.

There are plenty of cheap hostels in Varanasi , and just as many budget guesthouses. Varanasi has to be seen to be understood… I recommend spending three or four days here. There are good train links between Delhi and Varanasi and I recommend catching a sleeper train – go for 3AC class.

Backpacking Khajuraho

From Varanasi you should be able to catch a train directly to Khajuraho. As always you should book your ticket in advance and try to get a night train to save on accommodation. This area is famous for its hilariously erotic temples. Hire bicycles as some of the main sights are spread out and it is a great way to explore.

Try to catch the temples at sunrise, they are amazing. It is possible to arrange a rickshaw to take you to a lovely river where you can swim, ask around. Touts are persistent here and like to target fresh backpackers. I recommend staying for two to three days so you can get a well-deserved break before heading onwards to Agra…

Backpacking Agra

There are only three things worth seeing in Agra. The first and best is ‘ Joney’s Place ’ – it offers the best, and cheapest food in all of India.

The second is the Taj Maha l, it costs a whopping 1100RS to get in and this will probably continue to rise for foreign visitors in the coming years. Finally, 26km outside of Agra is the ruins of Fatehpur Sikri which is interesting if you have time but is unfortunately filled with very pushy touts.

The Taj Mahal is chief amongst the top sites to see in India. However, staying in hostels in Agra for more than two days is not recommended… Sadly it’s a true shit-hole of a city and not to be dwelled in… From Agra you can catch a train to Jaipur – but may have to change at Delhi.

Backpacking Jaipur

My second least favourite city in India is undoubtedly Jaipur. You can however mitigate its horror by choosing carefully where to stay in Jaipur . Try to spend just a day here if you can as the city is stressful and ugly. Ajmer Palace , 12km outside of the city, is stunning and worth the trip.

The Monkey Temple (Galtaji) is not to be missed – set beautifully into the side of a hill, make sure you go all the way up and over to the other side of the hill to find it. Other than the old buildings, Jaipur is a great place to shop for textiles, custom-made clothes and jewelry.

Jaipur is a great place to be during the festival of Diwali, easily one of the most important festivals in India.

Stay at one of Jaipurs’ best hostels –there are plenty to choose between. From Jaipur, you can catch an overnight train to Jaisalmer and work your way back towards Delhi across Rajasthan or jump to Pushkar. The airport does some good value domestic flights – if you book ahead you can get to Goa for $40.

Backpacking Pushkar

Finally, somewhere to relax now that you’ve done the obligatory sights of India! You could happily spend a week in Pushkar, exploring the many temples and the gorgeous lake within the centre of the town.

Pushkar is renowned as a town of religious importance and you can’t drink or eat meat here… meaning that, of course, you can but your beer will be disguised in a teapot and will cost more.

Pushkar is a shoppers paradise and is filled with thousands of stores selling pretty much everything… the market is a great place to buy bulk if you’re planning to sell your travel souvenirs back home 😉

There’s a strong backpacker community here, the town suffers from many a hippie-wannabe, and there’s lots of yoga and meditation classes available. Whilst exploring the lake, avoid the priests like the black plague – they are extremely skilled scammers. Do not let them place a wristband upon you, they will ask for a ridiculous payment.

For a truly striking sunset, climb one of the nearby hills surrounding the town. Pushkar has great but, very strong, Bhang (marijuana) lassis; these will knock you out if you are not careful.

Every year, the famed Pushkar Camel Festival comes to town – this is a totally insane event but well worth seeing if you happen to be in India at the time; book your accommodation in advance as everything tends to sell out.  Four to five days is about right for a visit to Pushkar although its possible to linger for weeks.

To get to Pushkar you must first catch a train to Ajmer and then catch a forty five minute bus onwards to Pushkar itself. From Ajmer you can catch a bus to Bundi, a logical next stop.

Backpacking Bundi

I loved Bundi. It’s well off the tourist radar and definitely worth visiting. I stayed in a lovely little guesthouse called simply The Lake View Guesthouse . Rooms were cheap, just $6 for a huge double with bathroom. Bhayvam Homestay does rooms for $3 but they are basic and you have to share a bathroom.

Definitely visit the palace and the fortress atop the hill (take a stick to deter the monkeys ) as well as Kipling’s house. Hire bicycles to go exploring outside the city, you will be utterly alone and this is a great chance to do some real exploring.

Stay for at least three days in Bundi and be sure to check out Krishna’s Tea Stall .

Backpacking Jodhpur

Although there may not be a great deal of tourist sites to visit, Jodhpur is an excellent example of a Rajasthani market town, a good wander through streets to soak up the busy vibe and colours is a must during your stay. In the state where every town has a fort, Jodhpur is no exception and it’s definitely worth visiting.

It’s one of the most amazing fortresses in the world. Take the audio tour to find out plenty of awesome history about this amazing place. I would stay for one or two days. You then easily catch a bus from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer.

Backpacking Jaisalmer

A giant sandcastle rising out of the desert, Jaisalmer fort is one of my favourite places in all of India and the starting point for the annual rickshaw race across India.

Even better, if you’re keen to go camel trekking and to spend a night camping out in the desert with fellow backpackers, this is the place to do it! Haggle hard… The prices vary wildly!

The legal Bhang shop sells shakes and cookies – they can get you very high and are a fun way to while away an evening; as always, be careful if you’re experimenting with drugs on the road. Not including time for a camel trek, you only need two days to explore Jaisalmer. There are good train links out of Jaisalmer.

Backpacking Udaipur

What a truly wonderful place. I lingered here for almost a month when I was on my first backpacking trip to India at the age of nineteen. There are wonderful hostels in Udaipur , great restaurants, interesting cycle rides, captivating lakes and atmospheric temples.

Try to stay somewhere near the central Jagdish temple. Shop around for accommodation as it’s possible to find good rooms for $4. I got some beautiful, custom made shirts in Udaipur which cost about $4 each – well worth it.

Five days is a good length of time to spend in Udaipur before catching a train back up to Delhi or travelling onwards to Goa or Mumbai. A train to Goa, via Gujurat, takes around 46 hours and I strongly recommend that nobody ever attempts this again… It was one of the most god-awful journeys of my life!

Backpacking Bombay

Let’s start with the name. Nobody calls this sweltering city Mumbai and the city is very much Bombay.

Now that the name is out of the way, let’s get onto the city. Bombay is, in a single word, intense! If you survive Bombay you have done well. Bombay is not only dirty, crowded and full of touts, it is also the most expensive city in India and can quickly drain your bank account on account of the wild nights out… Tinder works well in Bombay.

I loved Bombay and spent over 2 weeks hanging out but I was couchsurfing and had some great friends to show me Mumbai’s best neighbourhoods and help keep my costs low . I highly recommend trying to make a friend in Bombay as they will show you a side of the city that most backpackers in India simply are not aware of.

In case you can’t find a host, worry not as there are now loads of decent Mumbai hostels. You should definitely brave the local trains at some point, they are packed to bursting but are a quintessential Indian backpacking experience.

From Bombay, you can easily catch a train to Aurangabad.

Backpacking Ajanta & Ellora

The famed cave temples and dwellings of Ajanta and Ellora rival those of Petra… Huge temples and structures have been carved into the rock and occupied by holy sects for centuries, the history here is absolutely fascinating.

To visit Ajanta and Ellora, you will need to make a base in Aurangabad; a quintessential middle-of-nowhere Indian town.

You’ll need a full day to visit the incredible cave temples of Ellora, travel by tuk tuk for 600RS. Be sure to make a stop at the truly awesome ruined fortress of Daulatabad, a place with a bloody and fascinating history.

On day 2, take a taxi (1200RS) if in a group or a bus (150RS each way) if you are on your own to the Ajanta Caves; a collection of thirty Buddhist monasteries carved into a shoehorn of rock sitting above a lush green forest. On day 3, get the heck out of dodge (there really is fuck all to do in Aurangabad) and catch a train (6 hours) to Nashik.

Backpacking Nashik

The ghats, stone steps leading down to the river for washing and praying, in Nashik are truly mesmerising and, unlike in Varanasi, there are no pushy touts looking to make a quick rupee from backpackers.

If you are into your photography, Nashik is one of the best places to visit some truly untouched Ghats and to capture scenes of Indian rural life.

One day in Nashik is enough; besides the ghats there isn’t much to see. I couchsurfed here and found myself in a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class in the evening… such is travelling in India! If you fancy spending a second day in Nashik, there is a pleasant day hike to Trimbak which is worth checking out.

From Nashik you can arrange a sleeper bus towards Goa, or if you are feeling adventurous catch a train to Gulbarga and then onwards to Bidar and Bijapur, you may have to go via Bombay. I couchsurfed in Nashik.

Backpacking Bidar

The epic fort in Bidar is probably one of the most untouched forts in all of Asia and, best of all, if you visit you will probably have it all to yourself.

From Gulbarga, a bus (three hours) runs to Bidar, there is very limited accommodation options here – I stayed in the Hotel Mayura , right next to the bus station. Bidar Fort is filled with hidden, locked, passageways and epic buildings.

If you find an attendant, you can tip him 100RS to wander around with you or, even better, simply give you the keys. The fort alone is well worth coming to Bidar for but the city itself does have some other interesting sites and is one of the most important places of pilgrimage for the Sikhs. From Bidar, it’s a seven hour, ass-bruising, bus ride to Bijapur.

Backpacking Bijapur

Palaces, tombs, gateways, temples and minarets, all carved from solid basalt and covered in twisting vines and flowers. The architecture in Bijapur is simply stunning and it is widely renowned as one of the most important historical cities in India, despite this it attracts very few backpackers and you are likely to have it all to yourself.

A couple of days is adequate time to see all of the sites, it could be done in one single day if you are tired of the heat and are keen to hurry on to somewhere a tad more relaxing.

I recommend staying in Hotel Pleasant Stay , the cheapest accommodation is next to the bus-stand – it’s fairly horrible. From Bijapur, catch a bus to Hospet (3 – 4 hours) and from Hospet catch a thirty minute rickshaw to Hampi…

Backpacking Hampi

Backpacking Hampi is hands-down my favourite thing to do in India. I’ve been a total of five times and, every time, it’s changed drastically. It is famed for its climbing boulders as well as the assortment of ancient temples and Hampi’s primary backpacker area across the river.

Local buses from Hosepur to Hampi begin running at around 7am but expect usual Indian delays. The ride takes 30 – 40 minutes and costs about 15 rupees. Tuk Tuks are available and will charge you between 200 – 400. Tuk Tuk drivers will also lie and tell that you that the busses to Hampi start at 8.00, 9.00 or even that there aren’t any at all to try and get your custom.

Scooters can be rented cheaply in Hampi (300-400 rps), but aren’t actually necessary. Bicycles can be obtained for 200 – 300 rps. I recommended joining a bike tour around the temples and ruins of the main island – they can be joined for 300 including bike, last 4 hours and cover about 9km with lots of stops – bring sun cream and water.

Note that as of February 2020, the local government has began totally demolishing the entirety of the development “across the river”. This means all of the hostels and the entire Hampi backpacker hub is gone. The temples are still there, as are the rocks but to be frank, Hampi just lost half of its appeal and charm in one fell swoop. It remains to be seen how the demolition will affect Hampi’s.

Backpacking Goa

Probably the most famous place in all of India and a magnet for hippie wannabes and all kinds of backpacker assholes, traveling in Goa is a complicated, chilled, paradoxical place that is well worth a visit no matter what you hear.

The trick with Goa is choosing where in Goa to stay.

• Baga is for package tourists.
• Anjuna and  Arambol  for party people.
• Vasco da Gama  and  Margao have more local Goan life and traces of the Portuguese colonial era.
• South Goa for those seeking some peace.

Both Palolem and Patnem are pretty relaxed. You can arrange fishing, dolphin watching and kayaking from the beach.

Another beach well worth considering is Arambol beach in the North. It’s a lively, hippy mecca, and you’ll be sure to find some cute Goa Airbnbs and hostels to base in. There are loads of yoga classes and meditations, there are jam sessions every night and shops selling some genuine boutique items as well as the standard backpacker stuff. 

If you shop around you can still get a beach front shack for around 500 rps though prices spike between Christmas and February. There are also a number of trendy eco-resorts in Goa that are worth checking out!

Most restaurants along and around the beach are very similar and do perfectly decent Indian standards as well tantalisingly fresh fish tandooris. Cheeky Monkey has a great fusion menu and the shack next to the coconut seller does amazing thali’s for 100 – 150 rps.

There are no big parties in Arambol itself although Rusta has began doing Wednesday Techno Parties. Morejim however is a short ride from Arambol (don’t drink/drug & ride) and has a number of club nights featuring all minds of music.

That said, Arambol itself has numerous happenings every single night until around 10:30pm (midnight if its away from then main drag). I recommend attending Ecstatic Dance at the Source and seeing what weird and wonderful stuff is going on at Magic Cafe and the Love Templ e.

The big, wild, legendary Goa parties take place in and around Anjuna & Vagator . There are parties catering to different tastes each night during high season (Dec – March) so if you like commercial, techno, R & B or house you can find it.

However, my absolute premium advice is to attend at least one Goan Trance Party as they are utterly mind blowing. Try Shiva Valley on Tuesday nights or Shiva Place on Friday, Saturday & Sunday. Hilltop & Origens claim to be “temples of trance” and do attract big name DJ’s, but they are overpriced, soulless & shit.

Backpacking Gokarna

For a taste of ‘Goa before the tourists’, many people backpacking India head to Gokarna. The main beach is quickly catching on and becoming more touristy, much like Goa. That said, there are plenty of smaller beaches which are only accessible by boat and are home to small communes of hippies.

Gokharna is a short(ish) way from Goa and its relatively quiet. Beaches generally act as either a warm up for or come down from the madness of India’s tourism capital. Gokharna itself is classic Indian small town with a few temples, some dirt roads and lots of cows. There are plenty of guest houses, shops, travel agencies and ATM’s to be had here and its worth a look.

However, people come here for the quiet, secluded beaches which are 6km and 150rps in a Tuk Tuk away. My personal nickname for Om Beach is Jaffa Beach as its firmly established on the Hummus trail. By day, play volleyball, explore the temples in the old town or fish upon the high seas. By night, discover the real reason that many hippies have moved to Gokarna; a better supply of mushrooms and weed.

The guest houses here range from 300 to 500rps and the quality differs drastically. Shopping around and checking them all out is strongly advised as many don’t have WI-Fi or reliable electricity and are frankly depressing. The absolute pick has to be Mooksa with its extensive grounds at the back of the cafe. Dolphin Bay is to be avoided.

Some of these places don’t even have electricity so if you’re looking for something a bit more out there – this might be it. I would recommend staying at the Zostel hostel.

The necklace sellers on the beach are mostly young and pleasant but do get annoying. If you don’t intend to buy anything then make it very clear and be firm without been rude. If you say “I may buy later/tomorrow” then they will try to hold you to that.

Snakes are also very common here. I found one, 2 foot long, in my room and saw several small snakes in the jungles immediately surrounding the beach. The local staff told me they’re not poisonous but Google tells me there are some cobras around. The beach dogs are very friendly and the beach cows are generally harmless, but may try to eat your belongings. Remember, these animals are sacred in Hindu culture so respond accordingly if this happens.

Backpacking Rishikesh

Famous since the Beatles first rocked up here and got stuck into an Ashram, Rishikesh is a popular stop with yogis backpacking India and is well worth checking out, even if you are not into yoga. If you are into yoga, Rishikesh is the perfect place to take a course or earn your yoga certification.

Catch a train from Delhi to Haridwar and then catch a bus (one hour) onwards to Rishikesh bus station – from here, you will then need to get a tuk tuk to drop you near Lakshman Jhula, cross the bridge and find a place to crash.

There are lots of cheap backpacker accommodation options around as well as good Rishikesh hostels . I recommend staying at the Parmarth Niketan Ashram which is near Ram Jhula. You should definitely eat at the awesome Beatles Cafe,  Ira’s Tea , and Ramana’s Café .

Whilst in Rishikesh, hire mopeds for 300RS a day and go exploring. The foot-traffic within Rishikesh of thousands of pilgrims can be quite intense but once you are over the bridge and happily zipping along the mountains roads it’s a lot of fun. You can also arrange to go white water rafting in Rishikesh.

I recommend three or four days in Rishikesh. There are loads of Yoga and Meditation courses available ranging from a matter of days to entire months. Oh, and “ The Beatles Ashram ” is now an urban art museum which is well worth checking out.

From Rishikesh you can reach the incredible Valley of Flowers. I recommend taking around 3 days to make stops along the way. Trust me, it’s so worth it. From nearby Haridwar, you can also catch a train to Amritsar.

Backpacking Amritsar

The Golden Temple, the most sacred temple in the Sikh faith, is simply breathtaking. Sikhism welcomes all and you can stay for free in the golden temple dorms. Wander around until someone shows you where to go.

Ask the temple guards if unsure. Keeping with the spirit of Sikh hospitality, you can also get free food at the temple all day long.

You should visit the Wagah border ceremony in the evening and have a giggle at the ridiculous flag ceremony performed by soldiers from the Indian and Pakistani armed forces… It’s better from the Pakistani side!

One full day in Amritsar is enough as it’s very hot. After a night in the temple dorm you can catch an early morning bus to McLeod Ganj, or a sleeper train south. For more info, check out my amigos guide to Amritsar .

484 pages with cities, towns, parks, and ALL the out-of-the-way places you will WANT to know. If you truly want to discover Pakistan , download this PDF .

Backpacking McLeod Ganj

Home to the Dalai Lama and thousands of Tibetan’s in Exile, McLeod Ganj (or little Tibet) is a chilled place to spend a couple of days among the Tibetan people and is a great place to pick up souvenirs. There are many interesting day hikes around the area.

I would recommend staying at Backpackers Inn but you can also find tons of really cheap Tibetan family run places if you shop around a bit.

We stayed at one of these for 250RS a night, though prices will likely be higher these days thanks to inflation. McLeod is pretty small and a few days here should be more than enough unless you are doing yoga or choose to get involved with a charity.

There are several projects for volunteers here working with Tibetan refugees, be sure to check out Tibetan World where you can sign up for hour long language exchanges with the Tibetan monks, who are always keen to improve their English. And to leave you with a cheap food tip, The Black Tent Cafe does a fantastic Tibetan breakfast.

Backpacking Bhagsu and Dharamkot

Just a short twenty minute walk from McLeod Ganj is the backpacker hub of Bhagsu.

Lower Bhagsu is pretty modernised and my advice is to keep going up the hill. Bhagsu is an Indian backpackers paradise with hand made crafts, tie-dye clothing and Didgeridoo lessons at every turn. When travelling through India the first time, I fell in love with Bhagsu.

The area is very popular with Israeli’s and there is even a Hebrew book exchange. In the evenings, head along the stone paths into the hills and follow the music and the scent of ganja, there are many little cafe’s and lodges along the trail where musicians jam into the early hours of the morning.

Bring a torch as finding you way back after dark could be a challenge on a night with no moon! There are some great treks that can be done from Bhagsu without a guide; the most popular is Triund which only takes about three or four hours and is manageable even for newbie trekkers.

You can rent a tent to sleep in at the summit, it gets cold so bring layers if you have them.

Backpacking Old Manali

Arriving into Manali, you will be dropped in the main bus station in the modern part of the town, whatever you do; don’t stay here!

The real Manali is still a couple of kilometers away and you can choose between basing yourself in Old Manali or Vashisht. Old Manali is far busier than Vashisht and definitely the place to base yourself if you want to party – there are plenty of great hostels in Old Manali to meet party friends here too!

In Old Manali, ‘ Dylan’s Toasted and Roasted ’ does great deserts and has a movie room. Meanwhile the Sunshine Cafe has incredible food from all over the world and is a solid bet for nightly live music. The marijuana in Manali is amazing and freely grows everywhere.

Manali is an adventurer’s paradise and you can arrange white water rafting, paragliding, zorbing and canyoning… or, you could just get blazed all day. If you have plenty of time, it’s worth checking out both Old Manali and Vashisht, if you’re short on time, you’ll have to choose…

Backpacking Vashisht

If, like me, you prefer to simply chill with a cheeky smoke and watch the mountains, Vashisht is the place to go. Old Manali is great but, recently, it’s become overrun with large hordes of party-orientated backpackers, usually from Israel. Vashist is just a fifteen minute tuk tuk ride from Old Manali.

Vashisht is roughly set across the valley opposite Old Manali and is kind of like its little brother. The small town is much quieter than Old Manali and therefore a fantastic place to stay if you want some peace and tranquility.

There is a hot spring at the top of town and daily religious processions where you can watch devout locals fall into a state of trance. The Rasta Cafe is a great place to hang out and is famed for its Special Lassis ( be warned, they can be very strong ).

Private rooms can be found from between 600-1000Rs if you are willing to go door to door and haggle and you can sometimes even bag a room with a stunning mountain view.

From Vashisht, you could consider getting hold of a Royal Enfield and exploring the Spiti Valley  or, if you are short on time and funds, you can begin the epic bus journey to Leh in Ladakh.

The overnight minibus is supposed to take at least eighteen hours but when I did it, it took closer to thirty six hours due to landslides…

It was an awful journey but, ultimately, was so worth it. You can fly to Leh but, well, the bus journey is a rite of passage when backpacking India so you should do it, the views will be stunning if there is no cloud cover. Remember to take Diamox with you to combat altitude sickness.

Alternatively, from Vashisht, you can head south to Kasol for some easy treks within the lower Himalayas.

Backpacking Kasol

If you are taking a trip to Parvati Valley , chances are you will pass through Kasol, which is a popular backpacking destination for good reason. The town of Kasol can be reached by a five to six hour bus ride from Manali for 200RS.

Kasol has soared in popularity in the last few years and is now rivalling Manali as the backpacker hub for Himachal Pradesh. Depending on how long you spent in Manali, it is definitely worth heading here for a few nights if you have the time.

Kasol itself is largely popular with Israeli travellers and you will see many a hippie wannabe, from all nationalities, clad head to toe in hilariously impractical gear they have bought from the many stores selling hippy dippy shit upon every corner.

If you’re into shopping, you will probably love Kasol. It’s a good place to pick up quality clay chillums – 120RS – anyway. Kasol itself is, like Manali, famed for its marijuana and laid back backpacker vibe.

There are many day-hikes and longer multi-day treks that can be attempted from around Kasol. For a full run down of chilled out places to visit in the area have a good look at the  Kasol and Around guide  by Drifter Planet.

Backpacking Kalga and Kheerganga

From Kasol, you can catch a minivan up into the mountains and trek for forty five minutes to reach the truly serene village of Kalga.  It’s well worth spending a couple of days here, hanging out in the very chilled Sunset Cafe run by the unendingly friendly Nepalese manager, Hans – he is a man of many names.

From Kalga, most backpackers head off on the six hour hike to Kheerganga where you can bathe in a hot spring said to be one of Lord Shiva’s favourite places to relax after a hard day’s godding.

Despite this, it’s well worth spending one night in Kheerganga to see the stunning night sky at elevation; the lack of light pollution makes for some soul-stirring stargazing.

Kheerganga itself has, sadly, been hit with rapid unchecked development and is not a particularly nice place to stay – accommodation is crowded, dirty and overpriced. If you have a tent, bring it. Kheerganga might have some of the most disgusting toilets in all of India, which is no easy accomplishment.

Backpacking Leh and Ladakh

There is a lot to do in Leh and some great trekking in Ladakh. Start by the visiting the amazing palace and the massive Stupa – the donkey sanctuary is also worth a visit.

If you fancy some trekking, there is the 6-day Markha Valley Trek in Hemis National Park (the largest national park in India ), the 5 day Nubra Valley trek and the challenging Rumtse to Tso Moriri-dayer.

Ladakh and Kashmir are great places to travel on your own wheels and ideal for motorbike trips. You can also try hitchhiking or get a shared Ladakh taxi to explore the region.

Backpacking Srinagar

From Leh, you can take a jeep (very expensive) or an old bus to Srinagar (or you can fly). I would recommend flying… or avoiding Srinagar altogether!

I visited Srinagar as one of the very last stops on my first fourteen month adventure in India and by the time I got there I was totally broke… Unfortunately, without cash, it’s pretty difficult to see Kashmir as you really do need your own transport or to book yourself onto jeep tours which tend to start at around 2000RS a day.

In Srinagar, the one must-try experience, in my opinion, is to explore the lake by shikara. The lake is truly gorgeous and a peaceful place to spend an afternoon exploring. From Srinagar, you can catch a bus down to Amritsar or fly to Delhi.

Backpacking Bangalore

Bangalore is something of a boom town in India and has firmly established itself as the centre of the sub-continents mega tech industry. The city is something of a typical modern Indian city; unplanned, chaotic and ugly.

That said it is much more tolerable than Mumbai and Delhi; you will get far less hassle and meet with less scams. Because of its booming tech and business scene, the city also has a young, educated, enterprising crowd who are in many ways the cream of India’s youthful crop. There are lots of micro pubs, some great places to eat, and a few clubs putting on gigs and electronic music nights.

For a kick ass Mutton Biryani, check out the ever busy and beautifully basic Shivaji Military Hotel in Banashankari and for a classic South Indian breakfast of rice cakes head to Sree Krishna Kafe in Koramangala.

If you’re exploring South India then you should consider flying into Bangalore instead of the disappointing, punishing shit hole that is Mumbai. The hostels in Bangalore are way better and international flights are regular and affordable.

Backpacking Kodagu

A six hour bus journey from Bangalore lies the largely unexplored Kodagu region.

Although Lonely Planet claims to have been to Kodagu the information in the book is so point blank wrong that I find this hard to believe.

This is real exploring territory. It is easy to arrange a homestay once you reach the administrative capital of Madikeri. From Madikeri it is worth taking the hour long bus to Bylakuppe to visit a Tibetan colony.

The best thing about Kodagu is arranging a homestay, I recommend Homestay Kodagu , and simply heading off into the hills on a hiking adventure…  

A bus to Mysore from Kodagu takes about four hours. It is one of the most romantic destinations in India. Kodagu is perhaps one of the top romantic destinations in India.

Backpacking Mysore

Mysore is a truly ancient city and it still has a real feel of the British Raj about it.

You should definitely visit Chamundi Hill, climb the thousands of steps if you fancy a workout. The imposing Mysore Palace is well worth an afternoon and, if you can find them, there is word of underground parties in Mysore by night. Srirangapatna makes a great day trip from Mysore.

Mysore is, hands down, my favourite city in all of India… Saying that, it’s still a city in India and so you might want to do a runner after a few days to the more chilled out coast.

Backpacking Fort Kochi

Famed for the ancient Chinese fishing nets lining the shore, Fort Kochi is a great place to chill out for a couple of days.

Think laidback beach vibes, plenty of delicious seafood, and lots of opportunities for colourful travel photography.

To get away from Fort Kochi, you must first travel to Ernakulam so that you can catch onwards transport (two hours by bus) to Alleppey.

Backpacking Alleppey

There’s only one real reason to come to Alleppey when backpacking India… to arrange a trip on a houseboat and explore the backwaters .

A three day, two night jaunt is the standard and when haggling for the rental make sure food is included in the price. There are hundreds of houseboats so take your time choosing and make sure to haggle.

Check out this list of awesome Houseboats on the backwaters. If you do end up having to stay in the town there is a YMCA . Just outside of Alleppey is a little known but very beautiful stretch of beach and some interesting villages easily explored by bicycle.

Backpacking Munnar and Periyar

By now, you’re probably a bit stressed and need some time out, never fear; simply get your ass to Periyar wildlife sanctuary. To get to Periyar you must first head towards the town of Kumily.

Bank to spend a week between Periyar and nearby Munnar as you cycle, hike and drink way too much coffee. There are buses to Periyar from both Ernakulam and Alleppey.

Backpacking Varkala

The very tip of India, Varkala is reachable by train from Alleppey (three hours) and the train line does in fact run all the way to Bangalore. Varkala is a lovely stretch of sand and restaurant shacks but sadly suffers from a crowd of rather pushy shop owners.

If you have your own transport, you can explore some of the surrounding, quieter, beaches where it’s possible to camp without being bothered…

Getting Off the Beaten Path in India

Whilst India is well worn by tourist footfall, it is an insanely massive county and therefore getting off the beaten path is a lot easier than you would imagine. There is so much more to India than the Golden Triangle route that most first-timers take.

For example even tried and trodden Rajasthan has hidden gems like Bundi just a 4 hour bus ride away from Jaipur.

In Goa, it is simply a case of getting a bike and driving inland to explore the forest and villages that other tourists never get to.

Or you can go to places most tourists simply never make it to. Northeast India is like a country within a country, giving all the vibes of Southeast Asia while still in India. Majuli Island is a particular gem that I recommend getting to now–it might be underwater in coming days. Other Indian islands are worth checking out too.

While Bombay itself sucks, the state of Maharashtra does have some fantastic, lowkey beaches that will show you what seaside life in India used to be before mass tourism. Guhagar is perhaps my favorite beach in the country that you’ll have all to yourself during the day.

Meanwhile Tilmati Beach (near Karwar, another offbeat town worth checking out) is a real black sand beach only known to locals and fishermen.

While you’re in the area, you can stay in Mahabaleshwar and enjoy epic sunset views from the killer vantage point at Wilson Point.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

Top Things To Do in India

India is a truly weird and wonderful country, travelling in India is totally unlike travelling anywhere else – this is a subcontinent comprised of 29 states , each of which could be, and once was, it’s own country.

When backpacking India, you will be assailed on all sides by mind-boggling sights, sounds, smells, and tastes… Here are a few must-try experiences whilst travelling in India…

1. Try the street food

Eating plenty of Indian street food is one of the best ways to stretch your budget and you can pick up meals for as little as 10RS in some places…

Indian street food can be truly fantastic; I highly recommend Masala Dosa but Pokhara’s, Paaj Bhuri & Fried Chillies are also delicious. Try to pick a vendor with lots of Indian customers, they usually have the best food.

2. Visit a Hindu temple

Yes the Taj Mahal is a must see, but India is absolutely full of other stunning mausoleums, shrines, and temple ruins, many of which never make the news.

My favourites are in Khajuraho and Hampi, but it’s not just the ancient temples that should appeal.

For a taste of something a little bit different, check out a Hindu temple that is still running; some of the best ones are in Udaipur.

3. Couchsurf with the Sikhs

Couchsurfing in India is a great way to keep the cost of traveling in India low, and to get to know the local people. The Sikhs are some of the most hospitable people in India and whilst travelling in India I was frequently invited to stay by turbanned fellows sporting mighty fine mustaches.

These guys were almost always unbelievably hospitable and kind. Turn to Couchsurfing  to help keep your costs down whilst backpacking in India.

4. Explore the East

While most travellers plan to stick to North India or South India, the country has a massive East Coast (plus the 7 states that make uo Northeast India) that few foreigners make it to.

The hub of the east is undoubtedly Kolkata, a fantastic city where you’ll likely be one of only a handful of other backpackers.

The states of Tamil Nadu and Odisha are both quite unique in their own way, and are definitely worth the trip if you’re truly committed to travel India as authentically as possible.

5. Attend a festival

India is world-famous for its truly amazing festivals , my favourites of which are Diwali, the festival of light and Holi, the paint-throwing festival, one of the most famous festivals in the world . However, please note that Holi is not so cool for female travellers. Basically, local men get very drunk & excited which often culminates in spates of sexual assault; sorry to have to be so blunt.

Even so, a festival of some kind should be on your India itinerary.

6. Travel India with your own transport

The best way to see the real India is to travel with your own transport. I’ve motorbiked extensively across India and, more recently, drove a rickshaw 2500km across the country.

Even if you just hire a scooter for a day, travelling with your own transport in India is the best way to peel back the layers and get to grips with this amazing country.

7. Get off the beaten path

The backpacker enclaves of sleepy little Hampi, Goa and Manali are always full of backpackers chatting shit about how much they love India… the only thing is; this isn’t the real India.

The real India can be tough, it can be challenging but it is also one of the most rewarding budget travel destinations in the world. Furthermore, if you take the time to get off the beaten track, to hit the road and to go on a proper adventure you won’t regret it.

Best of all, when the real India has tired you out, then you can make a run for one of the backpacker enclaves… lucky you’ll never run out of epic places to visit in India .

8. Party in Goa

Experiencing Goa’s insane nightlife is must for your India itinerary. Yes, it’s popular, yes, it can be a bit touristy.

But trust me when I say you haven’t been to a party until you’ve danced the night away at a psy trance party.

9. Take a hike

India is home to the majestic Himalayas, and the trekking opportunities are endless. While not quite as awe-inspiring as neighbouring Pakistan, you can find some pretty epic views all over the North of the country.

India has some absolutely world class trekking op’s up in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand (the Gaumukh Trek takes you to the start of the Ganges) and Ladakh. Alternately though you can also find ample–though more restricted–opportunities in if you visit Kashmir and/or Sikkim.

10. Explore Little Tibet AKA Spiti Valley

Spiti Valley is one of the most unique places you can visit on an India backpacking trip. It’s quite a small region, yet it will truly make you feel like you’ve left India altogether and crossed the border into Tibet.

Locals look Tibetan, their language is almost identical, and they practice Buddhism. It’s in Spiti where you can find the oldest monastery in all of India.

This high-altitude region is similar to Ladakh, but is very much its own. Even if you plan to head towards Leh, a week in Spiti is one you won’t soon forget.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Backpacker Accommodation in India

When I first went backpacking in India, hostels did not yet exist. Instead, there was mostly cheap hotels and guesthouses available.

This is still largely true but there are now many high-quality backpacker hostels throughout India .

Guesthouses and commune-style accommodation can be a great experience as well; I’ve stayed in some amazing places and ended up enjoying it so much that I stayed for weeks at a time. With an increasing number of eco-resorts popping up as well, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

There is a lot of commune-style accommodation around; it tends to attract plenty of wannabe hippies but don’t give up if your first experience isn’t great, try a few of them to see if you can find a place with a vibe to suit you. Zostel Hostels is a decent backpacker hostel chain worth checking out.

And as a quick insider tip: If you want to see all – and we mean ALL – hostel options in India, be sure to check out BOOKING.COM . You can even filter your personal travel needs to find the perfect place for you.

The Best Places To Stay in India

India backpacking costs.

The good news is that India is one of the cheapest countries in the world to go travelling if you’re smart with your money it’s possible to travel in India on a budget of just $10 a day, even less if you haggle like a pro.

The trick to super cheap backpacking in India is to travel slow. The faster you travel, the more it will cost. In general, it’s likely you will spend between $10 – $30 a day depending on how comfortable you want to be.

A Daily Budget in India

These prices are based on the current exchange rate of 73 rupees to the dollar (March 2020).

Money in India

There are lots of international ATMS but they can be tough to find once you are outside of the cities and are in more remote areas. Also note that some ATM’s will not accept certain cards and a lot of them are often empty or broken.

Typically, you can expect to try 2 – 3 ATM’s before finding one that works. Many will charge 200 rps per transaction and this is in addition to any charges your bank levies. It’s advisable to avoid small ATM transactions and get out a bunch of cash at once – just make sure you hide it well.

Travel Tips – India on a Budget

Normally, my top three tips for budget travel are to hitchhike, camp and cook your own food but in India, food, transport and accommodation are already so cheap that this is not really necessary unless you are backpacking India on a budget of just a couple of dollars a day.

Don’t get me wrong – it is totally possible to travel in India with almost no money, I’ve done it, but it’s also possible to go travelling in India on a modest budget and still travel in relative style.

• Local Transport:  India is home to over one billion people, and many of India’s people need to travel great distances on just a few rupees. Journeys can be long and uncomfortable but it is possible to get from the top of India to the bottom for cheap. The sleeper trains are a great way to travel around India cheaply and the buses are a decent second option.
• Couchsurf :  Accommodation in India varies wildly in quality and cost but, in general, you can find a quality room for just a couple of dollars – especially if you are in a backpacker hub. It can be harder when you are out exploring the wild side of India but, as always, Couchsurfing comes to the rescue. I couchsurfed in India about twenty times and it was a great way to cut down on costs – just be careful when picking a host; you want somebody with plenty of positive reviews.
• Haggle:  India is the worst country I have ever been to from the point of view of people trying to rip me off… Even when the price of an item is clearly printed on the packaging, some unscrupulous motherfuckers will try to charge three times as much. India is a country where you simply must haggle for almost everything – accommodation, tuk tuks, street food, souvenirs… All can be haggled down.
• Become an expert:  Learn the secrets to unlocking sustainable long term travel .

Why You Should Travel to India with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

STOP USING SINGLE-USE PLASTIC! If you’d like some more tips on how to save the world , be sure to watch the video below.

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Best Time To Travel To India

Below is a general guide to India’s weather patterns, but India’s massive size means you need to closely investigate the weather patterns for your specific destination at the time of year you plan to visit. For example, some careful planning could see you travelling just in front of the monsoon as opposed to travelling in it, it could see you hitting the hill stations in the heat and the plains in the cooler months…

The “best” time to visit India is generally October to March when the weather is warm, dry and sunny. The Himalayas are cold but clear. This is peak tourist season and the time when most backpackers visit India.

Around April to May , the temperatures and humidity start to increase along with periodic thunderstorms so this part of the year is when it makes the most sense to head up into the mountains.

From June to September , the Indian Plains are scorching and many locals retreat to hill stations to escape the heat, eventually, the cooling monsoons sweep across the country.

Be aware of the very real possibility of heat stroke and dehydration particularly if landing in Delhi. Ladakh in the far north is generally only accessible between June and September by road, but careful monitoring of conditions is necessary if you are headed that way.

Road closures due to weather changes can be instant, and last for weeks. My overland journey between Manali and Leh took a horrific 35 hours when an avalanche washed away part of the road.

What to Pack for India

Here’s what I would never leave off my India packing list :

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Staying Safe in India

India can be a real assault on the senses, the body and the mind. This is a country with many lessons to teach . Whilst India is generally not considered a “dangerous” destination, there are actually a lot of little hazards to watch out for.

Perhaps the single biggest danger is traffic. Roads are jammed and motoring standards low and reckless. Take care when crossing roads and try to follow locals across. If you rent a bike or scooter, drive very carefully, cautiously, wear a helmet, and do not drink/drug drive – tourists are killed in this way every year.

Other dangers are disease and sickness. Do not ever drink tap water and even take care when showering in low budget guesthouses as the water can cause infections. Food hygiene standards have improved but “Delhi Belly” can still strike; try to avoid very dirty restaurants, eat only fresh street, frequent busy eateries, and use hand sanitiser.

You should also see your Doctor before visiting as a number of vaccinations are advised.

Bring sickness. and diarrhea medicine from home along with a supply of paracetamol and anti-septic. Whilst medicine is available in India, a lot of it is fake.

Crime against tourists is pretty rare (except for sex crimes against women) but pick pocketing occurs and unattended valuables will go missing. A simple padlock  is well worth taking with you and if you want to go all out, I recommend the PacSafe to protect your gear.

That said, scams in India against tourists are very common and you can expect to encounter them daily. There are far too many to list but a few classics include holy men asking for donations, various street beggars, been sold invalid tickets and taxi drivers saying your hotel is burned down. Basically, as a rule distrust pretty much everybody who approaches you and anybody who can make money out of you.

In 2016 veteran adventurer Justin Alexander, went missing whilst trekking around Kheerganga with a Sadhu of dubious intent. Justin was a real mountain man and a big inspiration for me.

The Sadhus, wandering Hindu holy men of India, are a fascinating group of people but can be extremely dangerous, I do not recommend interacting with them if you are alone – many of them are outlaws, frauds & drug addicts. Hiking into the mountains with them is not a good idea.

Be careful with the police in India, getting arrested is not fun. You can bribe your way out of most situations fairly quickly but the trick is to do it fast; the more police become involved the more expensive it will become – get your ass out of the situation before you arrive at the police station.

There are plenty of animal hazards in India. These inside street dogs & as well as mosquitos, snakes & parasites. Monkeys are amusing but can be vicious and will try to steal from you (phones, food, washing lines etc). Even street cows can get aggressive so keep your distance. If you head into the wilderness then add Tigers, Bears, Hyenas and Elephants to this list of beasts.

Another hazard is falling coconuts – they claim a lot of lives across Asia each year.

Despite the daily challenges, Backpacking India is an experience that easily outweighs these small dangers.

Some Extra Travel Tips for Staying Safe in India

• Check out Backpacker Safety 101 for tips and tricks to stay safe whilst backpacking.
• Pick yourself up a backpacker security belt to keep your cash safe on the road.
• Check out this post for plenty of ideas on ingenious ways to hide your money when travelling.
• I strongly recommend travelling with a headlamp whilst in India (or anywhere really – every backpacker should have a good headtorch!)

Staying Healthy In India

Travelling in India and totally avoiding traveler’s diarrhea is pretty impossible. Be sure to completely avoid the tap water, even when brushing your teeth (use purified water!) to improve your chances of escaping…

Many backpackers travelling in India tend to go vegetarian for the duration; not a bad idea considering Indian’s suck at cooking meat.

Eating street food is fine; just make sure the food is well cooked and is cooked in front of you – you don’t want something that’s been sitting out for hours. Potato and egg dishes tend to be the safest.

Female Travellers in India

Time to touch on a touchy topic…

One of the biggest problems with India is the attitude of many Indian men towards women, especially foreigners. Frankly, the way women are treated can be disgusting and the country is sadly in denial about the problem.

Most female backpackers encounter some sort of problem at one time or another whilst travelling in India. This can range from being stared at, “wanked at”, groped, followed or worse. Which is why choosing solo-female traveller friendly destinations is key.

Female travellers need to be extra careful and super vigilant at all times in India especially on public transport and after dark. You can minimise hassle by dressing modestly, saying you are married and being direct – note that any politeness you show to strange men may be interpreted as a “green light”.

Having some self defense skills  when you’re on the road, or off it, is always worthwhile and in my opinion everybody should have a go at training in martial arts at least once in their lives.

I’ve met many kick ass ladies who have travelled India by themselves and I’ve asked a whole bunch of them for their advice on the matter… For even more tips on how to travel the world fearlessly as a kick ass solo female, check out my mate Teacake’s Top Tips for How to Travel Safely as a Women  – she is a legend and I have a huge adventure crush on her.

Sex, Drugs and Rock ‘n’ Roll in India

Marijuana is widely available across most of India (it’s where it came from) and it’s also possible to pick up psychedelics and party drugs pretty easily in places like Goa. Take the usual precautions when buying and taking drugs as arrests and deaths do occur.

Usually, it’s smoking weed that will get you arrested so be subtle to avoid problems in the first place. Avoid buying weed from tuk tuk drivers.

Tinder works in India and is a great way to meet people, especially in some of the bigger, more modern cities. However, Indian society is conservative and sex a taboo subject. Don’t expect to get your rocks off with the locals.

If you are travelling with your partner , I advise saying you are married. Keep public displays of affection to a minimum especially in holy cities and especially when there are a lot of local men around.

Dating in India

India remains very conservative when it comes to dating and gender relations. Furthermore, dating foreigners is a serious no-no for many Indian’s who are still encouraged to marry within their “caste”.

That said, female travellers to India can expect to receive a lot of attention from Indian men and will have no trouble hooking up if they so wish. For guys looking to hit a home run though, the situation is substantially more challenging as Indian women really do have to take social pressures very seriously.

Tinder is now established in big cities although you may well find that matches rarely go beyond polite chat.

Same sex relationships are still taboo in many parts of Indian society, though LGBT travel in India is possible if you stay discrete in public. PDA is a no go for heterosexual couples too, though hand-holding is common in major cities.

Why You Should Get Insured BEFORE Travelling to India

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

How To Get into India

There are multiple international flights to dozens of cities in India but most backpackers arrive via Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Goa or Kolkata. You can also cross the Wagah border from Pakistan, cross from Nepal and Bhutan or cross from South East Asia via Myanmar over the recently opened Tamu-Moreh border.

Entry Requirements For India

You will need a Visa to enter India unless you are from Nepal.

The Indian Visa process has undergone a lot of changes in recent years and the types of visas available, and fees, vary between nationalities with little logic or consistency.

Most nationalities can now get a sixty day E-visa online, prior to arrival and this is the most coming visa type. However, sixty days travelling in India is simply not enough. If you have the time, I suggest taking 3 months or more. Note that citizens of the UK, EU and US can now get a 12-month or even 5-10 year Visa. Other nationalities should check.

For further information visit the Indian Government E-visa website .

I recommend iVisa  for sorting your visa ahead of time – these guys are quick, efficient and not too expensive – a good shout if you are low on time and want to get your visa sorted in advance.

Find the best transport, best time and the  best fare with 12Go . And why not use what you’ve saved to treat yourself to something nice upon arrival?

It only takes 2 minutes!  Book your transport on 12Go now  and guarantee your seat easily.

How To Get Around India

One of the biggest challenges facing backpackers is travelling around India. India is a truly vast country and sometimes the travel distances are absolutely massive. I once spent thirty-two hours crushed into a third class steerage carriage on a long-distance train, it was an interesting experience…

The most comfortable way to get around India is usually by internal flights but for backpackers on a budget, the trains are usually a better bet. There are also VIP tourist buses, super cheap local buses and, of course, hitchhiking is always an option.

I spent a good bit of time on local buses. Whilst they are cheap, they can be seriously uncomfortable. For journeys of over 5 hours, I strongly recommend booking ahead and paying the extra money for a tourist, VIP bus.

Read this article for more tips on how to save money while travelling in India. When you are in the cities, try to avoid catching taxis or rickshaws as this is where you are most likely to get ripped off.

Traveling by Train in India

No India guide is complete without some train talk. When backpacking India, most travellers opt to make use of the trains and this is a quintessential experience. In general, most backpackers in India go for the 3AC class; these are six bed cabins with air-conditioning (which is usually fucking freezing; avoid the top bunk!).

You can also opt to go for the non air-conditioned coaches but these are often rammed full of people; for short journeys it’s OK but for longer, overnight, train journeys I recommend going for 3AC. To book your train tickets, you should register online with IRCTC but note that the website can be confusing as fuck.

You can book train travel via a travel agent but note that they will charge a fee – some even rip you off by selling you less class than you asked for but this is just one of the many, many scams played on travellers in India.

Train tickets tend to sell out really fast; book in advance if you can. When travelling on trains in India, take a padlock and chain to lock your backpack to something; you can usually buy one on the station from a tout for 100RS. 

Keep valuables in a day pack and use it as a pillow. Often when you book a train you will be put on a waiting list – provided you have booked a couple of weeks in advance and are in, say, the top fifteen you will almost always get a seat.

You must book in advance though. If travelling alone I recommend booking a ‘side upper’ berth as it has a curtain and you won’t be bothered as much. When you book your train make a note of the train number, the time it leaves, arrives and the PNR number, you will need this to get your ticket off of the PNR machine at the station or from a mobile phone.

Travelling By Bus in India

In general, buses tend to have fixed prices and you buy your tickets on board. There is a ton of VIP sleeper buses set up for tourists and these are the most comfortable way to travel when there are no rail-links; beware though, due to the hairpin bends, crazy driving and shitty roads, a good night’s sleep is rare unless you have a Valium to hand.

If you’re heading off on a proper backpacking adventure and leaving the tourist zones, local bus is often the only way to travel in India. Travelling by local bus is one hell of an experience; it can be frustrating, rewarding, enlightening and sometimes simply damn hilarious.

You will meet a lot of Indians on local buses who will try to befriend you. They can sometimes be annoying but do try to be patient – it’s not every day they meet somebody travelling in India… Be mindful for some common scams that you might get pulled into.

Traveling by Rickshaw in India

In general, it makes sense to get a rickshaw rather than taxis for short distances as they are usually cheaper. You must ALWAYS haggle when getting a rickshaw or a taxi in India, otherwise you really will be taken for a ride.

Uber is also widely used in major cities, and keeps you from getting scammed as you get a fixed price.

I drove a multicoloured rickshaw across India, this is the best way to travel in style…

Note that Uber (car, bike and Tuk Tuk) is now available in most major cities and ensures better services and better prices. There is no Uber in small towns, many backpacker enclaves and Uber is strangely absent from Goa.

Travelling by Motorbike in India

One of the best ways to see India is from the back of a motorbike and if you have a tent with you your options vastly expand… Suddenly it’s possible to get pretty much anywhere, to live off the beaten path and to camp out in some truly stunning places.

The iconic Royal Enfield is the bike of choice for most backpackers in India and you can normally buy one for around $2000. If you are travelling India by motorbike it’s well worth taking a good backpacking tent.

Hitchhiking in India

I’m a huge fan of hitchhiking and have hitched rides in over seventy countries, India can be a great place to hitch a ride but it’s not recommended if you’re a solo female traveler – please, don’t even try it.

It helps to have a sign and a map  so you can make it 100% crystal clear where you want to be dropped. Before you get in the vehicle, make sure you clarify that you are not going to pay for the ride – some Indians will expect payment as you are a ‘rich backpacker’.

Onwards Travel From India

India shares land borders with Pakistan, Nepal and Myanmar. The Pakistan Wagah border can be crossed via Amritsar although you must obtain a visa in advance.

The border with Myanmar is accessed via the Eastern Syam region, though as of December 2022, it remains closed to travellers.

The most commonly crossed land border is Nepal. Visas are issued on arrival and transport links well established. You can take a bus from Delhi – Kathmandu (24 hours) or Varanasi-Kathmandu (12 – 18 hours).

• Backpacking Nepal
• Backpacking Sri Lanka
• Backpacking Myanmar
• Backpacking Bhutan

Working in India

The Indian rupee is not one the worlds more powerful currencies and relatively few people emigrate to India in search of work. Westerners working properly in India are few and far between generally working in multi-national firms and in political roles. 

However, there is no shortage of westerners hustling a living in and around backpacker hubs such as Goa and Himachal Pradesh.

Many Westerners work as DJ’s, run boutiques, or offer Yoga classes. Most are actually working illegally, do not have the necessary papers and do not declare their income. The Indian authorities are rather lax in addressing this and the underground economy is quietly tolerated.

If you do want to work in India legitimately, then business visas are available although Indian bureaucracy makes actually obtaining one a real challenge.

Many westerns work in the backpacker economy. Either they obtain business visas or work illegally.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Teaching English in India

Perhaps one of the best options for backpackers wanting to explore India long-term and experience living in this truly incredible country is to get a Teaching English as a Foreign Language course online and teach English abroad .

TEFL courses  open up a huge range of opportunities and you can find teaching work all over the world.

Volunteering in India

Volunteering abroad is an amazing way to experience a culture whilst giving something back. There are loads of different volunteer projects in India ranging from teaching, to animal care, to agriculture to pretty much everything!

India is a developing country so there are quite a lot of volunteer opportunities in health and social. However, bear in mind that English is an official language in India so its less common to find volunteer teaching gigs than it is other places in the world. Its also very uncommon for travellers to volunteer in hostels as these roles are usually filled by local employees.

If you do volunteer in India, be careful to do your research and trust your gut to avoid been taken advantage of by unscrupulous hosts. Volunteer programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers and Workaway are a good way to get your foot in the door of the volunteer community.

However, whenever you are volunteering, do stay vigilant especially when working with animals or children.

If you Signup for Worldpackers – as a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll also get a special discount of $10. So for just $39 a year, it is definitely worth giving it a shot.

Indian Culture

India is a full on culture shock. It is a colourful, loud, lively and smelly carnival of carnage. The exact quirks of Indian culture do vary from region to region but as rule, expect a lack of personal space and a lot of staring!

Indian society is still quite conservative so dress modestly and behave respectfully.  That said, Indians are very interested in foreigners and you can expect to be approached rather a lot.

It’s very common to be invited to stay the night or offered a free meal, especially in offbeat areas that seldom see tourists.

Useful Travel Phrases For India

There are countless languages and dialects spoken across India. The 2 official languages however are Hindi and English. If you speak English, you will get by fine. English standards vary dramatically.

Here are some useful Hindi (North Indian style) phrases;

Hello – Namaste (Stick to hi/hello for a casual greeting)

My name is _______ – Mera naam ______ hai.

How are you? – Aap kaise hain?

I’m fine. – Main theek hun.

I don’t speak Hindi – Mujhe hindi nahi aati.

No plastic bag –  koee plaastik kee thailee nahin

No straw please –  nahin puaal krpaya

No plastic cutlery please – K oee plaastik katalaree krpaya

Where is the bathroom? – Bathroom kidhar hai?/ Bathroom kahan hai?

How much does this cost? –  Yeh kitne ka hai?  

I want water- Mujhe paani Chahiye  

This is too expensive – Y e bahut mehenga hai         

Make your price less – B haav (or daam) kam karo

Cold – Thanda / Hot – Garam

Help! – Bachao!

I do not know – Mujhe nahi pata

Idiot/ Dumbfuck – Chutiya

Stop – Ruko

Okay/good/whatever –  Theek hai

What To Eat In India

Indian food is one of the worlds greatest cuisines and my personal favourite. Food does vary quite a lot from region to region but is generally on the spicy side. India is also home to the largest vegetarian population on earth and in some regions, the sale of meat is forbidden! 

Let’s take a look at some Indian classic dishes:

Chicken Tikka Masala – This tomato sauce based dish is actually an example of British-Indian cuisine but you will find it on offer at most tourist spots. Best served with rice.

Biryani – Spicy rice based dish. Regional variations include veg, chicken, mutton and many more. Delicious.

Daal – Translating as “lentils” Daal comes in endless varieties. It is a cheap, filling & ubiquitous Indian staple.

Thali – Coming in veg, fish or meat options, a Thali is a round silver dish filled with daal, rice and mixed veg. A great value, filling lunch standard.

Pakoras – Deep fried batter cakes filled with onions, spices and assorted veg. A fantastic snack.

Masala Dosa – A paper thin flour pancake filled with spiced potatoes. Served with samba sauces and enjoyed as a South Indian breakfast.

Lassi – Delicious milk drink. Comes in sweet and sour versions.

Chai – Sweet, milky Indian tea served everywhere as often as possible.

Paneer Tandoori – Soft cheese marinated in spices and baked in a charcoal oven.

Please/ Sorry/ Excuse me/ Taxi/ Train/ Bus/ Plane are all things you can say in English and people will get you just fine!

A Brief History of India

India is ancient and boasts as much history as them rest of the world combined. What is now India existed as a series of separate & often warring states, sultanates and ‘Raja’s’ from antiquity, until been unified under British Colonial rule during the Victorian era.

Modern India was formed on 15th August 1947 when British rule officially ended. Upon leaving, the British partitioned the sub-continent into India and Pakistan. Goa remained a Portugese Colony until 1967 when the Indian army annexed it – many Goan’s still consider themselves not to be Indian.

Today, India is undergoing something of a personal identity crisis. The current Prime Minister Modi is a Hindi nationalist rabble rouser who is stirring anti-Islamic sentiment. Bizarrely, this is manifesting in a pitiful attempt at the “de-mughalisation” of India.

Books To Read About India

You will get so much more out of your backpacking trip to India if you read up a bit whilst out there… Luckily, India has to be one of the most written about destinations in the world, and there are some fantastic books out there. Here are a few of my favourites:

• Shantaram : The first book I ever read on India, Shantaram inspired me to book a one way flight to Delhi and travel around India for 14 months. The book follows the possibly true, possibly exaggerated, story of an escaped Australian convict and his (absolutely balls-to-the-wall) crazy adventures in India.
• The White Tiger : One of the first books I read whilst backpacking India, this is a really useful, often amusing, sometimes horrifying, tale that will help you better understand the caste system.
• Nine Lives : Nine people, nine lives; each one taking a different religious path, each one an unforgettable story. William Dalrymple is one of the best writers when it comes to offering insight into Indian culture and I highly recommend reading everything he has written.
• Full Tilt, Ireland to India with a Bicycle:  Shortly after her tenth birthday, Dervla Murphy decided to cycle to India. Almost 20 years later, she set out to achieve her ambition. Her epic journey began during the coldest winter in memory, taking her through Europe, Persia, Afghanistan, over the Himalayas to Pakistan, and into India.

FAQs About Backpacking India

A few more commonly asked questions before you head out to backpack India…

How long do you need to backpack India?

A lifetime! And no I’m not kidding–even after 2 years in India, I reckon I’ve only seen half of it. But for backpackers with a lot of time, give India at least 6 months. Anything less than 1 month isn’t worth the flight cost if I’m being honest.

Is it safe to backpack around India?

While India definitely isn’t the safest place for solo female travellers, it is a relatively safe country overall with proper planning and research. For couples and guys, India is certainly safe enough, though do beware of scammers in and around major tourist spots.

What are the dos and don’ts in Indian culture?

Always remove your shoes when entering an Indian temple or home, never criticize the country or the military, and for female travellers in particular: dress modestly. Unless your in a backpacker enclave like Goa, shorts are a no-go.

How much does it cost to travel around India?

India is damn cheap! While not quite as budget friendly as it used to be, there are plenty of backpacker hostels to choose from as well as tons of cheap guesthouses. The street food is plentiful and costs pennies, and if you don’t mind being uncomfortable, even long distance transport will only set you back a few dollars. In short, it’s definitely possible to visit India for $500 a month, or less if you’re really ready to rough it.

Is India good for partying?

Hell yes! India’s backpacker hot spots have some of the wildest parties you could imagine. Hit up Goa and Parvati Valley for some of the trippiest vibes. Meanwhile, nightclubs and bars are plentiful in major cities.

Final Advice Before Visiting India

How did you enjoy the best India travel guide on the internet? Backpacking through India can be one hell of a crazy party at times. Take it from me, it can be easy to get carried away. It is important to keep in mind that you are an ambassador for your country, which is awesome. You can make a positive impact on people when we travel and get rid of any ugly stereotypes that may be associated with your homeland.

If you visit indigenous villages or small communities in the rural areas always ask before taking photos. The people who live in these villages are not exhibits in a museum. They are normal folks just living their lives. Always show them the complete respect that they deserve.

When buying a local craft, do not haggle so low that the price is unfair to the person who spent countless hours crafting it. Pay people what they are worth and contribute to the local economies as much as possible.

Backpacking India or any region for that matter often illuminates some of the great socio-economic inequalities of the world. Never take it for granted that you are healthy and financially able to go traveling. Show the world around you some gratitude and help to make a positive impact on it. Most of all have the time of your life and spread the love!

• Essential Info For Your First Time in India
• Buying a SIM Card in India
• 21 Beautiful Places in India
• Backpacking Pakistan

Updated December 2022 by Samantha Shea of Intentional Detours

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Will Hatton

Share or save this post

125 Comments

Amazing travel guide for the travelers.. Thanks for providing.

I do t see anyone talking about east north east India? Starting in Kolkata and moving north/west. Do people say that’s not an ideal route? Thoughts?

There is nothing wrong with North East India and some people absolutely love it. However it does receive far less visitors and I must confess, in my 7 times in India I never got there either! One day I would like to as some of the regions look just incredible.

I’m planning to do a few trips to India over the next 2 yrs and this web site has been very informative. It has made light work for me in deciding what to do. So, a big thanks for that.

Thanks for the fast reply! By the way I have a 5 year, multiple entry visa. I understand a single stay should not exceed 180 days, as for the rest it is a bit unclear to me. I can stay for a maximum of 180 days before having to leave India, now if I cross borders into a different country can I re-enter into India for an additional maximum stay of 180 days with the same 5 year visa. And can I continue to do this for the duration of the five year visa? Hope this makes sense as I’m sure many others do similar things. Thank you!

Best Forward Joseph

Thanks for the quick reply! By the way I have a five year visa, multiple entry. I understand I can not exceed 180 days at a time, and the validity is 5 years. The guidelines are a bit unclear to me. I wonder if I am able to stay for a max of 180 days, leave India, return for another max of 180 days for the duration of 5 years, with the same visa. I hope this makes sense. As I am looking for clarification from others who have done similar.

Best Forward, Joseph

I have in some cases read that if you stay the full 180 days, you cannot return for two months afterwards. I have also read you can only stay 180 during each calendar year.

India, being India anything is possible… so you may be able to return the very next day after leaving.

Unfortunately you will need to check directly with Indian immigration to be sure.

How easy is it to renew visa in India (extend my 180 days)? And how would one do this?

It’s painfully difficult. It requires getting a C form, making multiple visits to a Police station as well as the consulate.

For the sake of your sanity I would leave India and get your next visa from either Kathmandu, Sri Lanka or Dubai.

Love your blog!! My interest in visiting India is 100% piqued.

That said, I probably can’t take off more than 10-14 days due to my job. How would you recommend compressing these itineraries? I understand India is a big country, call me daunted ?

Where would you coming from? Because if you are flying from the UK, US or Aus then you are going to lose a few days to jet lag so if you can only get 1 days, forget it and go somewhere else.

If you can manage 14 then pick one area and explore it. That could mean doing 2 weeks in Goa, or 2 weeks up in North India enjoying the mountains.

Alternatively, if you want to see palace and fortress, then start in Delhi, take a trip to Agra and then spend 7 – 10 days in Rajasthan.

Thanks for visiting India. It’s my country and I just love it. It is a land of vivid culture, language, religion and many more interesting things. Keep writing more on India and keep sharing. Love to read your articles.

Wow!! This is such an amazing and sensational post. A complete guide to travelers who wants to visit India. You’ve done a great job, Will!! I impressed with your points on tips for female travelers in India. Yes, Still harassment over women persists in India, especially in the Northern parts. I would like to advise solo women travelers to take care of their belongings. Thanks and Have a nice journey all!!

Great article.

Hi! This post (like all of your others) is amazing & so informative – thank you!! I was wondering if you can recommend any good places to be for the Holi festival. I’d love to see it with locals rather than tourists 🙂 thanks

Hi Liv, Personally Ive celebrated in Jaipur previously, it was wild (and local) experience. I think the thing to remember is there are locals everywhere, even in tourist places, so there will be locals around to celebrate with if you want. You could also consider specifically heading to a Krishna strong hold as they will certainly be celebrating there. Northern India is well known for their celebrations. It’s an awesome event, have fun and cover your phone:)

The bike which you showed in one pic is awesome

Great guide! Definitely going to be referring to it when I take my trip. I’m planning on heading to India from mid-April this year to late May. I know it’s going to be very hot everywhere but the mountains, so I plan to spend most of my time up there, but is it still do-able to visit Delhi, Agra and maybe even Varanasi as well? It seems crazy to me to go to India and not see these places as a minimum requirement. I’ve done the south of Spain in the height of summer (think 40 at midnight in Sevilla) so I’ve been there before. Would love to hear your thoughts. Thanks.

Hi Will im thinking on going for a month and a half with my girlfriend to the north side starting around rishikesh on February and March.

Do you think is a good time of the year to go visit? And enough time?

Thanks for all the great info! .

Hi Francisco, This is a good time to visit, as it avoids the monsoon period and it shouldn’t be as hot as some other parts of the year. In 6 weeks you should be able to cover a decent number of destinations, especially if you are focusing on a particular area of the country. Love it or hate it, there is a lifetime adventure to be had in India!

India is one my favorite countries to travel in for it’s beautiful photo opportunities! Thanks for this guide!

Amazing guide thank you so much!!

I am planning on travelling to India for 10 days which I know is not a lot but unfortunately I dont have any more time. I will be in Sri Lanka before that so I want to stick to the south of India. In your opinion, what are the best places to see in the Southern part of India? I’d like to see as much as possible but I’d rather see a couple places really well, instead of many places very fast and spend ages traveling between places. I was thinking potentially Kochi-Munnar-Kumily-Alappuzha but I would love to get your opinion

Don’t miss Hampi! 🙂

Thanks! Is there a way to get from Bengalore to Munnar?

Immense website, thanks for the effort, a huge leg up for me planning my trip, hope you still check these posts. Ive got just over 3 weeks to have a look around India in feb/march, my plan was to first visit a region in the himalayas then travel south but this is not looking practical in feb weather. So was thinking of flying into delhi, then checking out Bundi, Pushkar, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer then heading to Goa for the last week to fly out while stopping off at Ellora on way. How would you prioritise this, how flexiable can I be with trains, I don’t really want to commit X amount of days to each place booking trains in advance as I’d rather wing it, would I need to book the train south in advance though, Any recommendations?

You can’t be too flexible with trains as all the 3AC tickets (the class you want) will sell out… so do try and book ahead when you can 🙂

Hi Will. Loved your blog, relieved to have read it at the right time. I am planning to travel Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand in the coming month. I do not have any limitation in time but money yes. Can you advice me on below question: 1. What are must visit and must do (both in Himachal and Uttarakhand) 2. How do I find budget stay (Considering I am a solo female traveller) 3. Is there any community to connect with other travellers

Hey Sneh, sorry but all the info we have is in this gigantic guide 🙂

Wow the great post with nice tips for all traveler…

Travelling is important as it helps to keep us fresh and encourage to work. It helps us to learn many new things and culture of India. There are many amazing places to travel solo, these are some amazing places of it. I have visited some, will plan soon for next of the given list.

Hi Will. Loveddddd your blog post on India. Going in Jan. Did you travel to Sri Lanka after? If so do you recommend the best way to get there from Goa, is it ferry or plane and if you did travel there can you travel on the same visa you get for india? Thanks Maya

We haven’t been to Sri Lanka yet, but a flight is going to be the easiest! As different countries, the visa process is different and depends on your nationality too.

Thanks for sharing such an amazing article. After reading the article, I feel it your article will definitely help me a lot in my next journey.

I am literally on this page since I woke up! Feels so good to start a travel plan with this great Guide you wrote down here! Thank you for that!

My plan is a little ambitious I think. 1 month to cross the country. I would arrive in Delhi, jump straight to Rishikesh (yoga lover), then Bundi – Mumbai – Goa – a few stops until I get to Mysore for 1 week ashram. You can give me any opinions (please do it!) but what I am most concerned is the distances and not many transport options between the stops in the north, specially Delhi – Bundi – Mumbai.

What are your thoughts about it? Will be great having your support!

The country is actually surprisingly well connected. If there isn’t trains, there are buses. Having said that things can move very slowly sometimes. For an itinerary like this it might be worth flying to Mumbai to save some time.

Thanks for the great post! Absolutely inspiring! I’m going to travel in India from February till July. So far I booked my flight to Kochi and the first 2 nights in a hostel. In beginning of march I’ll be at a wedding in east India (Vijayawada). That’s all I planned so far. I don’t want to have an exact itinerary, but a rough idea where I can go at all due to waether conditions. So I guess I’ll do Kerala in Feb. After Vijayawada, I guess it might make sense to do something like your Delhi-itinerary, so I can see that area at all before the great heat arrives. (Originally I thought I’d do that last, because my flight back is from Delhi, but weather apparently doesn’t like that plan. 😉 ) Than in April I kind of have to escape to the north, I guess? Do you think it is worth spending 3 months up there, or would it make sense to go to a neighbouring country at some point? Thanks for your advice!

3 months in Northern India would certainly not be time wasted, but if you felt inclined Pakistan and Nepal are both equally if not more spectacular countries 🙂

Amazing guide, Will! Super comprehensive.

I’m so happy I found this guide — Amazing!!

Curious: you’ve mention Workaway for volunteering, which I’ve been looking into. I’m also looking at WOOFING and others. That said, I’m curious what your experience with this is in relation to visas? Do you travel India on the longer 6 month, 1 or 10 year TOURIST visa and are still able to volunteer? Or have do you recommend getting a volunteer visa?

Everything I’ve read, says that volunteering is illegal on a tourist visa, yet the volunteer visa is for the duration of work? I wouldn’t know this if travelling from project to project.

Am I overthinking this? Are backpackers just working on a tourist visa and the Workaway hosts don’t care/ask?

I don’t think you’re going to get in trouble for volunteering on a tourist visa, you should be fine 🙂

Gujarat is great great great…..the best food in india

and kassardevi after December the Beit Habad is empty from israelis that time and the weather is great, hot and cold at night.

le hishtamea Alex Sternick on he way to Gujarat

Hi clair! Thanks alot for the feedback, so the idea is to land in delhi and see some mountains and yoga, on the itinerary Will says the better months are between may and september so we are still a bit not so sure If its wise to go on that direction for the weather conditions.

You think its ok to try to see a bit of the moutains side?

Thanks you once again

Hi Francisco, it depends what time of the year you will be travelling. Currently in the north it is cold, especially at night. That doesn’t mean you can’t venture there it just means you need to check the forecast of specific places you want to visit. Especially if you are looking to go far north, road closures etc are certainly possible. If you were looking at somewhere like Rishikesh, at this time of the year, its likely cold at night but still ok in the day.

Hi clair! Thanks lot for the info one more time! 😉 yeah we arrive next week so we will stay February and march guess we will check out rishikesh and from there we collect more info and we follow your advice on moving depending the weather. Thanks again!

Hi Will, First of all, it’s amazing how much heart and effort you put in this blog. I’m planning to travel india and nepal via backpacking next autumn and your report was really inspiring to me. The limit I set myself is about 6 weeks and I am asking, do you have any suggestions, which places are really worth travelling, if I wanted an impression of not just small parts of the country? Thanks Simon

Hey Simon, I’m glad you found it so helpful 🙂 For Autumm, I recommend spending your time around Rajahstan and then heading up to Manali. Don’t miss Bundi!

Hi Will! This page is honestly amazing. So so happy I found it. A friend and I are doing Asia for 4 weeks and never really considered India till now. If you only had 2 weeks to do India, what would you recommend. I would love to go back one day and do a bit more but I only have a 2 week window before I have to start work in London. I’m from Australia 🙂

With 2 weeks in India – I would go: Delhi overnight train to Jaisalmer – Jodhpur – Pushkar – Bundi – Agra / Dharamasala – Back to Delhi… Or Hampi – Goa – Gokarna Or Delhi – Rishikesh, Manali and surrounding area, Dharamasala 🙂

I am so thankful that I found this super duper helpful post about India, sadly, most of the Itineraries that you provided are rougly for a month/months, sighs…I got 10 days only to visit India…probably I will stick in Delhi.

Wow…. never seen before such a rich and helpful guide!

I’m from Israel and as you could have saw, many places had become little israel with hebrew signs everywhere this route is known in israel as the “hummous route” haha and there is not many info about places out from this route in israeli website

I want to visit again and to be honest I want to keep distance from my fellow israelis….I see them every day here 🙂 in Kasol and Old manali I didnt saw 1 tourist from other countries !!

wich places in the northen india are you recommand?far from israeli menu in resturants for 3 weeks second visit in India

Hey brother, there certainly are many Israelis in India, that’s for sure – as for where to go to escape the crowds, that’s tough to answer – India is SO massive and easy to get off the beaten track. My advise would be to head to Ladakah – still MANY tourists – and then to do a 5 – 7 day hike from there, lots of options around 🙂

I did a 2 month south india tour, and I plan to do a north trip soon. Thanks for the amazing list of places and things to do, I have added few more things after reading this. I agree with all the things you mentioned, except for non vegetarian food part. I got to taste some really good meat dishes while I was here, especially in Muslim/Christian dominated regions, and in state of kerala and tamilnadu. Meals in hyderabad was one of the best I have had, you should try hyderabadi haleem next time you are there.

I read your blog post and it was amazing there are full of information about your backpacking experience. I would like to go to India someday. I have a question? The locals from there? Are they taking advantage to a foreign tourist? I mean, when it comes to fare, food, and others?

It’s impossible to generalise against a whole nation like that. India does however have more than it’s fair share of touts and scam artists.

hi, its depend u will get bad guys all over the world, but india is nice country you should make a small group.

Great blog Will – many thanks.

If you had to recommend one place in India which fits the bill for being a relaxing place to hang out and chill for a week or so (looking for a recharge), where would it be? Ideally, somewhere with a few Western comforts and other travellers to meet. Cheers G x

Manali / Hampi / Kasol / Gokarna / Dharamasala / Jaisalmer / Bundi

Traveling to India has never seemed more appealing than after reading your stuff! great work!

I am planning on traveling from end of August to mid October but not sure where to go within India and outside of it (Nepal, Sri Lanka…)

Could you recommend a good itinerary that contains a bit of tracking in the beginning and some relaxing stuff at the end (plus good weather of course)?

Thanks in advance!

Hey buddy – thanks for your kind words! For the itineraries – look in the article… there’s about six recommended ones.

Hi I’m in India now have been here for last 11 months fly back to uk on 29th this month I am planning to come back and travel for another year love it here!! But I’m suddenly worried I may get rejected for another 1 year multiple entry visa 2 months after this one expires as I did nepal visa runs same day and had problems at immigration have you got any experience with this any advice would be much appreciated would be heart broken if my visa was rejected because I went to nepal and returned same day

Great advice on India from all perspectives. Loved the details, tips and tricks you describe accurately!!! I have been there done that and will go back again this year. Thank you very much and please keep posting inspiring travel stuff!!! Namaste 🙂 JP

Wow! The great places to visit once in a lifetime. I stayed at Jaipur Zostel & Moustache too. These are indeed the best travel guide to the budget.

The statement ” Indians suck at cooking meat ” is generalized. Being the home for curries, there are many great non vegetarian food in India ( except beef ). If you avoid meat, you’re missing a lot of really good dishes there. It really depends on where you buy meat or consume it. Most Indians know the best places to find quality meat and dishes, and the tap water in India is not for drinking. Indians buy 20 litre water cans for drinking, so packaged water is a better option. Like Anthony Bourdain, Indian food won’t give you troubles.

We are heading to India from Thailand next month. We will be landing in Chennai. My wife works remotely and needs reliable internet Wednesday to Saturday. We have give 0r take 6-8 weeks. what would you suggest for an itinerary that would let us see and experience as much as we could based on this time of year. We are not big into trekking as we are just barely on the better side of 50. Slainte!

I have no advice at all I’m afraid when it comes to needing to build an itinerary around reliable internet…

Man what a great post! We are coming to India via Chennai in about a month. we are looking to spend about 6-8 weeks. Based on the time of year how would you maximize your time. My wife works online so reliable wifi is important and we have wanted to come to India for years! Is the whole currency thing pretty much sorted out? Cheers!

Currency situation is now sorted 🙂 With 6-8 weeks, I would definitely 100% go up to the mountains -Dharamasala, Manali, Kasol, Ladakh as it’s gonna be seriously hot everywhere else in the country.

Thanks again for this blog mate, its my go-to for info for my trip at the moment Do you have any experience/advise on getting hold of a Royal Enfield in India, and if so would you advise rent or buy? and from which city?

Thanks a million

Hey brother! I would recommend buying rather than renting because you can probably sell without making a loss – there are Royal Enfields in most cities 😉

reply to will : It’s always to book trains whatever through IRCTC official website. 3ac for a caucasian tourist would not be a very good idea as it would not provide them desired comfort and privacy.

What on earth are you talking about? Being caucasian does not make you rich… And anything above 3AC is a rip off.

Hi. This is a very honest informative article. I’ve just started my search of destinations. I plan to leave in 2 days time and go for 2 weeks. Oh, where to go, where to go. I like the idea of a 3 day boat trip, fishing, a chilling on rustic beaches

Hi Will, his was so helpful, thank you for sharing. I’m hopefully going to follow your northern route for a while as I need to escape the heat during June-July. I was wondering if you could advise me on whether or not I need to pre-book rail and bus tickets around the Rish-Amr-Mcl-Bhag-Man-Kasol areas or if you were able to buy on arrival? Regards, Tristan

It’s always worth pre-booking trains in India. Buses not so much but train tickets sell out weeks in advance on some routes, especially for 3AC – which is probably the class you want.

Thank you, relevant trains booked, taking a gamble with the buses. Have read and reread this post more times than I can count now. You’re a star, not only for providing this info but ditching your desk too. Hopefully I can join one of your trips to Pakistan in the future!

Thanks Tristan, I’m glad you found this mammoth post helpful! Come join me for a smoke in Pakistan some time 🙂

Loved this blog Will. I did a 6 month tour of India back in 1992 and have been back on many shorter trips since. My Mum and Stepfather have a small villa in South Goa on an incredible stretch of beach called Velsao, so i visit them twice a year. I live in UAE so its only a short flight. I just turned 50 and plan to move to Philippines in a couple of years with my Filipina wife to take things easi(er). Before that i plan to do a 3 month tour of India – some places ive been to before, but many ive read about and missed out previously. That may hopefully get the country “out of my system”. Trouble is ive got about 40 places on my list already and your blog gave me another 10 at least. I am looking at Pondicherry in the South to Srinagar in the North…. so i think 3 months is cutting it a bit fine, might need to add another 6 weeks at this rate. Back in 1992 i was really on a tight budget, probably 50 quid a week, this time i will have more money, im not sure i can handle too many overnight bus journeys any more. Cheers. Andy

Hey Andy! Sounds like an epic adventure dude – traveling in India is always different, that’s why I love to return! 🙂 Hope to catch you on the road for a beer sometime 🙂

Yep should be a good one. Trying to get the Mrs excited about joining me. She is trying to persuade me instead to back pack from South to North Philippines. I think there might have to be some compromise, or better I save harder now and we do both. Cheers.

Hi Will, Me and a friend have 6 weeks in india in June/July, we fly into Delhi and out of Kulcuta. As its high summer we are staying out of Rajesthan. However do you think we have time to head north out of Delhi into the mountains for 2 or 3 weeks before heading east towards Kulcuta? if so how would you alocate the time? I was thinking a few of the places of your itinery #3 before heading east.

Cheers Fred

Hey Fred, I would definitely recommend going up to the mountains – it’s gonna be fucking hot around Delhi and Kolkata. Swing up to Manali, visit Kasol for sure, you could swing up to Ladakh if you want to do some hiking… Honestly though, going at that time of year; I would try to spend MOST of it in the mountains, it’s going to be sweltering everywhere else.

Thanks for the advise Will, How does this look as a rough itineary, will it be possible in 6 weeks? Delhi- Paliala- Amristar- Dharamshala- Manali(and Vashisht)- Leh(Ladakh)- Rishakesh- Agra- Varanesi- Kolkuta

Many thanks in advance

Ambitious but do-able – if you go at the right time of year! I would recommend flying back down from Leh, to Delhi, and possibly skipping Rishikesh – you’ll save some time that way.

Hi Will, I get new piece of info everytime re-read your article! Thumbs up for the superb insight of your baling in India. Any recommended website to book the houseboat accommodation in Srinagar?

Hey Will! Really appreciate your website, its hugely helpful when planning a trip to have advise from someone like minded! My partner and I are off to India in September for two months to kick off our big travels. Im working through a rough itinerary, enough to know the areas that we will go so we can book the trains in advance. So far we have Delhi – Varanasi – Khajurajou – Agra over 12 days then a 10 day Vipassana course in Pushkar. After that Pushkar (4 days) – Bundi (3 days) – Udaipur (5 days) – Jaisalmer (3 days) – Jodhpur (2 days) – maybe Bikaner. It looks we have 12 or so days free after that Im wondering what you would recommend. Is this enough time to head up to Manali or somewhere up there and if so where would you recommend? We are kiwis and into hiking but dont want to be taking a crap load of hiking gear so cant really do any huge hikes. I also dont want to be a tick box tourist jumping from sight to sight, would be better to just stick with what we have and space it out more to get more involved with the places we are at? Cheers!

Hey Renee, you are going to have an epic time in India and hell yes; book those trains in advance! AC3 all the way! Your itinerary looks solid and yes for sure, with 12 days left it makes sense to head up to Manali for a few days and explore the area around Kasol – there’s some great hikes you can do, and I strongly recommend taking some chill time at Kalga – go visit Hans and stay in his Sunset Guesthouse. Kheerganga is a popular trek destination but personally, I loved the hike and was less keen on the end destination – crowded and litter everywhere. Vashisht is a chill place to spend some time. RE Hiking gear – you won’t need to carry much, just be sure to have proper hiking shoes and you should be golden. You can buy waterproofs and warm clothes easily once in India and you won’t need camping gear unless you want to do something more ambitious. Have an epic trip!

Great info Will, this will definitelycome in handy as a great source of info for our travels later this year where hopefully I will be one step behind you. You never know, I may be able to buy you that beer finally. Happy travels Dude

Looking forward to the beer bro!

Two friends and I are planning on traveling to travel India in late February for a month. We are al 18/19. Our initial plan is to fly into New Delhi then travel to Varanasi, Khajuraho, Agra, Jaipur, Pushkar, Bundi, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer and back to Delhi. Is there anything you would recommend doing or not? We are also considering Udaipur? We are looking for a mixture of a proper Indian experience and a relaxing/spiritual time. We all enjoy a good smoke etc but don’t have the biggest budget. Any thoughts? Any advice would be much appreciated. Thanks

Hey buddy, That’s a pretty fucking good itinerary, it’s actually similar to the first itinerary I did myself! I would cut Jaipur and make the dash down to Udaipur. Make sure you spend enough time in Bundi, it’s the highlight! India is cheap – but, you have to haggle! If you don’t, it ain’t cheap at all.

This has been the most helpful thing I’ve read leading up to my trip–thanks! I’d love a bit of advice. Right now what’s set in stone for my trip are stops in Delhi, Jaipur (for a wedding), and a variety of stops in the south. What’s up in the air is another stop in Rajahstan. If you had to pick just one stop inbetween Delhi and Jaipur what would it be? I was most interested in Varanasi and Udaipur I think but would love your take. Thanks man!

Hey bud, between Jaipur and Delhi – there isn’t much to stop at to be honest. You could swing to Ajmer Fort, 11km outside of Jaipur but you would be better off making a dash down to Bundi.

Hi Will! This is such an amazing guide, I’m going to take all of your tips into account on (and while planning) my trip!

In November I’m flying to Delhi and then the plan is as follows: Agra – Fatehpur Sikri – Keoladeo National Park – Jaipur (might scrap this after reading your post) – Pushkar – Bundi (after reading your post ;)) – Chittorgarh – Udaipur – Jodhpur – Jaisalmer – Bikaner – Nawalgarh – Mandawa and then back to Delhi.

I’d like to do this in about a month. Do you have experience with Chittorgarh and Udaipur? I’ve read good stories on these locations, but am not sure yet. Also, are you familiar with Bikaner, Nawalgarh and Mandawa? Then last but not least, do you think the Keoladeo National Park is worth a visit?

Thanks in advance for your answer!!

Hey Laura, I actually lived in Udaipur for a month – loved it there, amazing city! I’m stoked you are heading to Bundi, definitely one of the highlights of Rajahstan! I have no tips for Bikaner, Nawalgarh or Mandawa I’m afraid! Have an awesome trip.

I see these blogs looks very useful,but manali and shimla is also great places for travelling.these are perfect for the tourist.December and January tourist can enjoy a lot .so we have to go in these months.

Wow Will this is such a detailed and useful guide! It must have taken you ages 🙂

Great Article Will. I am in early phase of my planning to travel whole of India. I was born and raised there but have been living in US for last 15 years and working in the corporate world. I love the diversity of culture and being a photographer want to capture the true essence of the country. I am planning on following the route Guru Nanak (1st Sikh Prophet) took during his 5 travels around India and world. I believe this will give me good structure and allow me to explore some historical sites as well. I can also stay in these historical gurudwaras and visit other local locations nearby or enroute. I want to get your feedback on what would be an ideal loop and whether there are any concerns from your experience, carrying camera gear around. I have home in Chandigarh and will probably travel out from Delhi. Here are websites showing the different locations Guru Nanak visited. Appreciate your feedback with this. I am planning to account around 3 months for this and if needed can rent my own vehicle as well. Money is not an issue but I would like to get the best experience. http://www.sikhiwiki.org/index.php/The_Udasis_of_Guru_Nanak http://www.singhsahib.com/travel-route-map-of-sikh-guru-nanak-dev-ji.php

Okay, we’ll scratch Jaipur off the list! 🙂 I found a sleeper bus from amrit to bikaner via Neelam Travels (10hrs) and it made delhi-dharam/amrit-bikaner doable. I also read about Indian Himalayas and I think that part including Leh and Srinagar and Rishikesh should be a whole another trip for another time. I would really love to include Nepal cause I heard that the atmosphere and the people are more pure. Is that true? We also plan on trekking in the himalayas from Kathmandu(?) for 3 days. Do you think I should trade Nepal for Manali and Kasol? Thanks soooo much! 🙂

So Ladakah and Srinigar should definitely be saved for another whole trip but you can get up to Manali relatively easily, I recommend staying in Vashisht for a more chill vibe, with less people, or Old Manali if you want to party. From Manali, head to Kasol – You don’t need to spend any time here and can instead transfer from Kasol up to Kalga; Kalga is awesome and has a very chill, somewhat Tibetan, vibe – go and stay in the Sunset Cafe and say hello to my friend Hans! Sunset Cafe in Kalga is just a gorgeous place to soak in some mountain views and from here you can do a relatively easy two day round trek up to Kheerganga. Nepal is amazing – I would hesitate to say the people are more pure, you have good people and bad people in every country in the world, but there is certainly less hassle in Nepal. Saying that; if you get yourself up to Manali, and especially Kalga, you won’t have any hassle up there – plus the hash is awesome. Nepal is great but my gut instinct is that you should save it for another trip and trade in Kathmandu (a fascinating place but a city all the same) for some time around Kalga; Manali and Kalga is a great place to end a trip 🙂

Wow! Sunset Cafe is beautiful! Will definitely include that in our itin. So, we decided to stick with our route but added Manali and Kalga before going to Dharamsala. We traded Jaipur for Bundi and moved some days to spend a 4-day trek in Pokhara and 2 days around Kathmandu. Thanks so much for all your suggestions! 🙂

Hi Will! Many thanks for this meaty post! My friend and I (both women) are planning to backpack India for 3 weeks and Nepal for a week in July. What do you think of this route? Delhi-Dharamsala-Amritsar-Bikaner-Jodhpur-Pushkar-Jaipur-Agra-Varanasi-Nepal-Delhi

Any tip/advice/suggestion would be much appreciated! 🙂

For three weeks, that’s a truly massive amount of ground to try to cover… I would probably cut Varanasi and to try and see India and Nepal in three weeks just isn’t possible, unless you simply want to spend a couple of days in Kathmandu, this look like a very tiring itinerary to me though to be honest. It’s gonna be hot! Especially in Rajahstan… Do not miss Bundi in Rajahstan though, epic place. Maybe go Delhi – Agra – Jaisalmer (via Delhi, skip Jaipur it’s shit), Jodhpur, Pushkar, Bundi, Delhi – from Delhi you could then make a dash to either Varanasi, Kathmandu or up to Dharamasala and Amritsar, but not all three. Not unless you want to spend like a day in each place anyway because the distances are absolutely massive and you’ll lose a lot of time travelling. Amritsar will be hot, you should maybe make a break for Manali or go trekking around Kasol instead; doable from Delhi in six or seven hours I think, bus, and will be cooler, well worth it. Good luck!

Thanks for your response! ? Why is jaipur shit? ? I thought the pink city is a must see. Anyway, we’ll do 2 days in delhi, 2 days in dharamsala, 1 day in amritsar (golden temple), 2 days bikaner; Jaisalmer is too far so we won’t be able to do it. We opted for Bikaner (just for the overnight desert safari) instead. Then 2 days jodhpur, 1 day pushkar. And maybe skip Jaipur and do Bundi for 2 days then agra for 2 days and varanasi for 2 days. From varanasi we’ll take the bus to sunauli (1day) then 3 days in pokhara and 3 days in kathmandu then fly back to delhi. 23 days all in all. We’ll take sleeper buses/trains to save on accomodation costs. What do you think? Many thanks! ?

Sorry for the unnecessary question marks; those are emojis that apparently didn’t work. 🙂

Jaipur just isn’t so great; if you have to skip somewhere that’s on your list, I would skip Jaipur. I guess it depends what you want but it’s possible to do an overnight train from Delhi to Jaisalmer and then work your way back through Rajahstan via Jodhpur, Pushkar, Bundi. I would definitely not miss Bundi. I would also spend 2 nights in Pushkar and one night in Jodhpur, there’s more to see and do in Pushkar. Pokhara and Kathmandu are both nice – your trip is totally doable, just bear in mind that it’s a lot of long journey… like, a lot! I would consider cutting Varanassi and spending a week in the Indian himalayas; around Manali and Kasol is great trekking and it’s really chill; which you might want towards the end of your trip. Pokhara is pretty nice but it’s still a city and Kathmandu is amazing but far from chill. Do whatever works for you for sure, just throwing some stuff out there 🙂 – they are all great destiantions, but to get them all in to 3 weeks will be tiring.

The most racist blog I have ever read about backpacking in India. Indian men want white girlfriends who can get them out of the country? Most white female travellers I have met date Indian men who literally pay for their entire trips including flights, accomodation and experiences. Maybe you can cut down on the racism next time you visit an Asian country or you might as well stay in your little bubble of white privilege and spare us the torture of such racist blogs.

You’re an idiot – most white female travellers you have met date Indian men? That is clearly wrong. If you don’t like my blog, fuck off and don’t read it – problem solved.

salivating at the thought of masala dosa. Fuck it, I’m back there next year. There’s also a plant that only flowers every twelve years up in the Tamil hills, so that alone makes it worth the effort.

Cheers for the rump-kick.

Shine on, Dude.

Hi Will, I’m an Indian living in Mumbai. I have travelled the coastal areas of Gokarna and Goa on the bike several times. However I’ve always been fasinated with the Himalayas, and your article would make a dead man want to backpack. Im Planning to ride from Mumbai to rishikesh – manali – khirganga – kasol – leh and the places youve mentioned next month. Thanks again for everything you do. This is pretty awesome.

That sounds like an amazing ride dude! Happy trails…

Waouh just thank you for doing such an amazing post on this country !! I’m planning to visit India by the end of the year for the first time, and you litteraly answered every single questions I have !!! Bouddha bless you ^^ I’ll definitely start with the easy itinerary for a first 🙂 especially as I may be travelling solo, I prefer to play it safe first ! Thanks again. This is Amazing content !!!

I’m happy you found it helpful 🙂

Sharing your experience like these will definitely help a lot of people, including myself. It’s a great advantage to know what to expect so travelers can prepare themselves properly!

Great post man. Currently travelling around India with my Girlfriend for the first time. Absolutely incredible place and we echo everything you have said!!

Any recommendations for Rajesthan?

Bundi is my favourite place in Rajahstan. Don’t miss it out. Go up into the fort early on in the day and take a staff to ward off the monkeys; it’s an amazing experience and view up there. Indiana Jones-esque shit!

India always a romantic land! I have backpacking to a lot of places, perhaps I will planed to India! Your post so clearly! Thank you!.

It has always been a dream of mine to travel along the original hippie trail and end up in Goa. Fingers crossed, I get to actually do that one day! Thanks for all the details about India 🙂

If you do the original hippie trail, you shall have to come through wonderful Pakistan as well! 🙂

Hi Will, Just found your this post and your blog – great advice here! I’m thinking about going to India from April-September this year and was wondering if you could help me out with a few queries. I want to slow travel through the south of the sub-continent, or at least start off doing this, though it will be ‘off-season’ for the months that I’m hoping to go. Have you had much experience travelling during the off-season? Would I be better off travelling the north of the country where it will be much cooler?

Hi Dom, India is so big that even in off season you will still find places to go and things to do. When the heat arrives (and in some places it does get damn hot) head for the hill-stations, or to the mountains in the north. If its monsoon season, try and plan head, check local weather forecasts, often info is pretty good on where and where it going to rain. Try to keep out of its path.

Thanks for sharing your experiences about India. Have couchsurfed through the US but wouldn’t have imagined doing it in India, have heard so many bad things and it seems like a risky country but also equally fantastic. I didn’t realise it was such a cheap country either. What would you recommend in terms of carrying currency? Is it dangerous to have cash on you? Someone told me i might be better with an http://icicibank.co.uk/personal/travel_card.html “>Indian Rupee Travel Card but wondered what your experience was. Thanks.

Thanks for your comment! You definitely can couchsurf in India but I have to say I would be very careful as a woman – when I was surfing and I had female surfers with me, even when I was there, we had to be on our guard 24/7. It is safe to surf if you have a male companion but otherwise I wouldn’t recommend it. The CS boards are great ways to find travel buddies though! I simply took my debit card and got out the maximum amount of cash – 10,000 rupees ($200) – once every two weeks, it was always absolutely plenty. I usually had about 500 rupees on me and the rest in my day bag which came with me everywhere; I got pickpocked once (whilst drunk) and lost about 3000 rupees ($60) – really not too bad for over 14 months in the country. If your careful and avoid flashing your cash you will be fine; muggings are extremely rare in India; it certainly is not like south america! Let me know how you get on and definitely give India a go; currently the rupee is weaker than it has been in thirty years so it really is wonderfully cheap! 🙂

We traveled across India on bicycles for 5 months. We finished less than half a year ago. And all this time I felt safe there. Talking about the money. We always had cash with us just because outside bigger cities it’s not possible to pay with credit card and the same way it’s almost 100%, that you will not be able to pay with credit card for those cheap hotels, even if they will be in big cities. Taking out cash is not a problem, as there are a lot of ATMs, many with security guards. I would suggest to have two credit cards. One with small amount of money on it, used for cash withdrawals. And second one, hidden, with all other money.

Hi Kaspar! I would love to do some long-distance cycling adventures, I have a buddy who cycled from Australia to the UK via most of the ‘stans – a seriously epic adventure. To be honest when I was in India I never really had many problems with money – it certainly helped to have cash on me where possible, I got the best exchange rates but I mostly just used my debit card to make cash withdrawals. Although I was robbed a couple of times, without my knowledge, in my 14 months in India I never felt particularly threatened – then again, I met a lot of female backpackers who did.

Hi Will !.just found your post and found it absolutely helpful. I am from northeast india and always dreamt of backpacking through the country. .After reading your detailed information i just want to jump onto next train available..hopefully i get to do it someday.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

• 2 Weeks for Couple
• 2 Weeks for Family
• Thailand Lantern Festival
• Indonesia(Bali)
• South Korea
• China (HK, Taiwan)
• Itinerary Ideas
• Asia Highlights Travel Reviews
• Thailand Travel Reviews
• Vietnam Travel Reviews
• Cambodia Travel Reviews
• Japan Travel Reviews
• Myanmar Travel Reviews
• China Travel Reviews

• 2 Weeks in India 2024/2025: Top 4 Itineraries

India is a really big country. 2 weeks might not be enough to see all of India, but you can explore a region or two, such as the popular golden triangle with Rajasthan in the west or with a trip to Goa in the south.

Some off-the-beaten-path routes like the northern frontier or southern Kerala are also recommendable for 2 weeks.

Check out the above itinerary ideas and more on this page.

• Best 2-Week India Itinerary for Couples/Families
• Best 2-Week India Itinerary: Golden Triangle + Rajasthan

Best 2-Week North India Itinerary

• Best 2-Week South India Itinerary

How Much Does It Cost to Tour India for 2 Weeks?

The best 2-week india itinerary for couples/families.

For a family trip in India, we recommend the classic golden triangle (Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur), a tiger safari tour, and some family beach time .

This itinerary also works well for couples looking for a romantic holiday of awesome sights, exotic adventures, and relaxation together.

It covers India's most classic cities covering culture, history, and nature, at a relaxing and enjoyable pace.

Here is the suggested itinerary:

• Days 1–2: Delhi

Days 3–4: Agra

• Day 5: Tiger safari in Ranthambore
• Day 6–7: Jaipur

Days 8–9: Mumbai

• Days 10–13: Goa beach time
• Day 14: Departure

The capital Delhi is ideal for spending 1 or 2 days. There you can explore its highlights, like the Red Fort, Humayun's Tomb, and Qutub Minar. These will help you learn about Indian Muslims and India's Islamic past.

Take a auto rickshaw to discover Chandni Chowk, the oldest market in Delhi, where you can catch the vibe of local people's lifestyle in Old Delhi.

The journey between Delhi and Agra is about a 5-hour drive. A point-to-point private transfer is more flexible, easy, and efficient than using a train or bus. Direct flights are not available.

You will need about at one full day to explore Agra's famous Taj Mahal , Agra Fort, and the baby Taj.

During the sunrise, when the morning sunlight gently kisses the pure white Taj, you'll find the best time to take a family photo.

Day 5: Ranthambore

Ranthambore National Park is the best place to do a tiger safari . You will travel in a jeep for an adventure in the jungle. See Bengal tigers, bears, leopards, jackals, elephants, striped hyenas, bison, monkeys, and several types of deer.

Days 6–7: Jaipur (the Pink City)

Jaipur, the pink city, got its name as its Mughal architecture is mostly painted pink. There you can explore the secret of its most famous palace — 'Palace of the Winds' — and find out how it got its name.

You can walk into Amber Fort and learn about its glorious history, and have an unforgettable dinner at the fort like members of the royal family.

Visit Jaipur's Jantar Mantar, the world's biggest stone sundial, where you can learn about the wisdom of the India's Mughal Dynasty.

Head to Mumbai with a 2-hour flight. Spend 1 or 2 days to explore India's biggest city.

Start with a Bollywood trip in Mumbai, which is especially recommended for kids. You can visit a shooting set, change into Indian clothes, and watch a Bollywood dance show.

There you can also explore many iconic buildings , such as the Gateway of India and Dhobi Ghat, which is a large open-air laundry.

Days 10–13: Goa

A flight from Mumbai to Goa is about 1–1½ hours.

You will be surprised to see the Baroque style of its old town area. Its many churches and monasteries that are on the World Heritage list are well worth visiting, like the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral.

Goa is also famous for its beautiful beaches . You can enjoy beach time with fun water activities.

If you would like a shorter itinerary, you could check out our 11-Day India Highlights and Goa Honeymoon Trip .

Or you can also contact us for an itinerary based on your interests, group size, budget, and other needs. All our tours can be adjusted. With Asia Highlights , you enjoy 100% refund of any payments made to China Highlights prior to 3 weeks before departure ( detail⇒ ).

Best 2-Week India Itinerary for History: Golden Triangle + Rajasthan

The golden triangle captures the essence of what many imagine India to be like — visit the most famous cities and most representative palaces and forts.

Rajasthan is the best choice to experience the splendid history and colorful culture of India. Its four color cities will enable you to feel its charming history and culture in a romantic and colorful atmosphere.

Here is the itinerary for inspiration:

• Days 5–6: Jaipur

Day 7: Bikaner

• Days 8–9: Jaisalmer
• Days 10–11: Jodhpur
• Days 12–13: Udaipur
• Day 14: Fly back to Delhi for departure

Day 1–2: Delhi

The capital Delhi is the start of your India trip. It is recommended to spend at least one day to explore Delhi and see its highlights, including the Jama Masjid, Humayun's Tomb, and Qutub Minar. These will help you learn about India's Muslim heritage.

Go to Chandni Chowk, Delhi's oldest market, where you can discover local people's lifestyle in Old Delhi. A rickshaw ride could make the visit more interesting.

Drive about 5 hours to Agra. It is also accessible by train and bus, but a private point-to-point transfer is more efficient and flexible.

There, learn about the beautiful love story behind the Taj Mahal as you visit it. Don't miss visiting Mehtab Bagh ('Moonlight Garden'). It is the best place to get a stunning sunset view of the Taj Mahal.

At Agra Fort, see what luxurious royal life used to be like, and see the amazing intricate patterns carved in Itmad-ud-Daula (the baby Taj Mahal).

Day 5–6: Jaipur (the Pink City)

Head to Jaipur with another 5-hour drive. Jaipur is full of romantic ambience. Much of its architecture is painted pink.

You can walk through several palaces and forts , learn about their glorious history, and discover why they are pink.

Having a romantic dinner at a fort, like a prince and princess, could be an unforgettable experience. If you want a more local experience, you could take a cooking class at a local's home, and then show off your Indian cuisine skills to your friends when you get back.

Bikaner's recommended stay is 1–2 days. It was one of the three great Desert Kingdoms of Rajasthan.

There you can check into a heritage hotel , visit a fort, go to the Camel Institute, and visit a special temple, where 25,000 rats live and are revered.

Days 8–9: Jaisalmer (the Golden City)

Head to Jaisalmer with a third 5-hour drive. Jaisalmer, a famous desert city, was once a center of trade between Afghanistan and Central/South Asia.

There you can explore a fascinating desert and visit a splendid group of cenotaphs, where you can enjoy a wonderful sunset.

Days 10–11: Jodhpur (the Blue City)

Again, we'd drive about 5 hours to Jodhpur, the blue city, a quiet and tidy city.

Walk through the quiet and narrow alleys among the old town's blue houses, take some beautiful pictures, and explore the fascinating bazaars with their little shops.

Visit an ancient fort perched on a huge cliff and explore the several brilliantly-crafted and decorated palaces in it. Occasionally there is music coming from the castle, which is healing and peaceful.

Days 12–13: Udaipur (the White City)

Udaipur is also a five-hour drive from Jodhpur. The buildings there are mostly white.

Visit Udaipur's City Palace , an exquisite white palace, where you can see the amazing panoramic view of the city on its top.

The most impressive sight is the enchanting blue water of Lake Pichola. A boat tour will take you to the best place to enjoy the romantic lake views.

If you want to take the romance even further, have a candlelit dinner by the lake.

If you are interested in the India-Pakistan border area and want to learn about the history of British India , then you should consider this northern route.

We suggest visiting the golden triangle and two important northern cities: Shimla and Amritsar.

The Golden Triangle: 6–7 Days

Located in the central northern India, Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur are the best gateways to learning about India's architecture, history, and culture.

You can visit the most well-known landmarks, like the Taj Mahal and many splendid palaces and forts.

You can also experience a heritage hotel that showcases Old World colonial charm and mansions once owned by India's royal family.

Some more locally-connected activities include having a cooking class with a local chef and taking an auto-rickshaw to a local market. They can be added.

Shimla and Amritsar: 4–6 Days

Amritsar (2–3 days): In the North-West Frontier of India, Amritsar is a good place for visiting the India-Pakistan border for the interesting " lowering of the flags " ceremony.

It is also the holy city of Sikhism, one of the major three religions in India. There you can visit a Sikh temple, listen the chanting of the Sikhs, and visit the place where the Amritsar massacre took place.

Shimla (2–3 days): You can find Victorian-style buildings in Shimla's Mall Road. Those buildings tell the story of Shimla when it was the summer capital of British India .

The Best 2-Week South India Itinerary

If you've been to India's golden triangle and want to experience something different from forts, palaces, and temples, then you should consider South India, which features natural beauty , relaxing countryside life, and beautiful beaches .

For a 2-week trip in South India, you could go to Mumbai and Kerala — India's biggest-and-most-bustling city and the famous tourist state of South India.

There you can experience the main features of the south — beaches, tropical views, tea and spice plantations, wild animals, and South India culture.

Mumbai: 2–3 Days

First, spend two or three days in Mumbai, the biggest city in India. India's past and future can be seen there simultaneously.

There, the skyscrapers of India's rich coexist with Asia's largest slums . The world's leading IT companies sit side-by-side with the huge Municipal Laundry at Dhobi Ghat. After visiting these places, you may be able to understand the unique temperament of Mumbai or even India.

You can also explore Bollywood to discover India's film industry, watch a Bollywood dance show, and admire the colonial-style architecture sets.

Kerala: 9–11 Days

Kerala is the "southern tourism state". You are suggested to spend 9 to 11 days exploring it. Rich natural resources and a harmonious and inclusive religious culture are Kerala's features…

Cochin (1–2 days): You can visit Portuguese, English, European, and Spanish-style old buildings , learn about the relationship between China and India through seeing Chinese fishing nets , and enjoy the traditional dance of Kerala.

Munnar (2–3 days): A famous hill station and the best place for hiking around a tea plantation , in Munnar you can visit a tea museum, go for a picnic by a peaceful lake, and find where the film Life of Pi was shot.

Thekkady (1–2 days): In Thekkady, you can follow the trails of wild animals in Periyar National Park, have a cruise on a lake, and enjoy walking in a spice plantation .

Alleppey (1–2 days): You can experience a traditional houseboat in Alleppey, and enjoy a cruise to explore Kerala's backwaters , the biggest draw of Kerala.

Kovalam (2–3 days): Enjoy some leisurely beach time. Sunbathing, swimming, Ayurvedic rejuvenation, massage, etc. are popular in Kovalam.

Trivandrum : Departure

We are by no means limited to our itinerary recommendations. You can contact us if you have any ideas. We will create an itinerary based on your interests and needs.

India offers luxury trips with palace hotels for hundreds, even thousands of dollars a night. It can also offer many budget options (at 3–4 dollars for a bed but you cannot expect a nice environment).

If you are looking for a comfortable and satisfying holiday in India, then a medium or higher budget should be appropriate.

Below, we provide some for-reference prices based on a private tour. You can also contact us and we will plan your itinerary and recommend hotels according to your interests and needs.

• For a medium budget, touring India typically costs around 150–200 USD per day per person (including air fares within India, 4-star hotels, attractions, guide, and transfers). Thus, it may cost about 2,000–3,000 USD for 2 weeks.
• For a higher budget of US$ 200–250 per day per person, more comfort can be enjoyed (includes air fares within India, 5-star hotels, attractions, guide, and transfers). The cost for 2 weeks would be around 3,000–3,500 USD.

See more on our How Much Does a Trip to India Cost?

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Tour India with Us

You are warmly welcomed to have us customize your trip based on your group size, interests, budget, and other needs. Sit back and use our Create My Trip service.

Or start from a recommended fully-modifiable itinerary:

• 14-Day Romantic Honeymoon Trip in India
• 9-Day India Golden Triangle with Tiger Safari
• 12-Day Family Holiday in India
• 11-Day India and Nepal Tour

Why Asia Highlights (10,000+ reviews & 98.8% 5-star rating)

• Save Your Time:
• Less research, more enjoyment!
• Real-time 1V1 expert planning
• Maximize Your Flexibility:
• Personal local guide and ride
• Explore at your own pace
• Celebrate Your Journeys:
• Specially-crafted family adventures
• Celebrate milestones with style!
• 7-Day India Golden Triangle Tour
• 9-Day India Tiger Safari and Golden Triangle Tour
• 14-Day India, Nepal, and Bhutan Tour
• India Itineraries 2024: from 5 Days to 1 Month
• How to Plan Your First Trip to India 2024/2025
• Plan an Awesome Trip to India, Bhutan and Nepal (6 Tips)
• Weather and Where to Go in India in Janurary 2025
• Weather and Places to Go in India in February 2025
• Weather and Places to Go in India in March 2025
• India Weather & Best Places to Visit in April 2024
• Weather in India in May 2024 & Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Weather in India in June 2024: Temperatures & Travel Tips
• Weather in India in July 2024: Temperatures & Travel Tips
• Weather in India in August 2024: Temperatures & Travel Tips
• September Weather in India & Tips (Places+Crowds) 2024
• October Weather in India & Tips (Places+Crowds) 2024
• Weather and Where to Go in India in November 2024
• Weather in India in December 2024 & Tips for First Visits

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.

More Travel Ideas and Inspiration

Sign up to our newsletter.

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

Why Asia Highlights

Where can we take you today.

• Middle East
• African Safari
• Travel Agents
• Loyalty Program
• Our Differences
• Privacy Policy

Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China

15 Unforgettable Towns: 3 Month Backpacking Itinerary for India

Last Updated on March 22, 2024 by Christine Kaaloa

Spice-laden sunsets, sun-drenched beaches, and snow-capped Himalayas….with three months backpacking India stretched out before you, where do you begin? This comprehensive guide unpacks my epic India backpacking route of 15 cities to visit in India for 3 months.

When I did my India backpacking route in 3 months back in 2012, I regretted not documenting it in its full glory. I wrote several travel guides of the cities and towns I visited, sharing a more comprehensive breakdown of each city. But it helps to see an overview of what those three months looked like as a whole and the route I took.

Traveling India on a three month India Tourist visa

As far as India tourist visas go, the longest duration you can stay is three months. Read How to Get your India Tourist Visa . You’ll find many long-term or European backpackers and digital nomads taking this option. India is one of those countries where if you’re not traveling with a tour group , it can take a while to get around. Some travelers plan their route; the other half of travelers wing their trip, keeping the road open for inspiration and meeting others, who might whisper locations to check out. India is such a large and diverse country that three months will blow by before you know it. Read my blog on trip planning for India.

Pacing my route and winging my plans

When I planned to travel on the three month Indian tourist visa, it was my second trip to India.  Being a yoga practitioner, I wanted to get yoga certified , stay at an ashram and go with the unplanned flow of India.

My fifteen city route across India was covered mostly in two months, as I spent a month in Dharamsala with my yoga certification program. Staying put for a month helped me sink deeper into the culture and befriend locals, foreigners and foreign expats.  I allotted each place anywhere from three to seven days per city and part of me played each destination by ear. When I took this trip, I was partially in the shot-gun vacation pace of travel, but eventually my days in a place got longer.

I’d arrive into a city and find a place to stay on the spot.  I’d find a transportation and luggage-carrying convenient location with the most hotels and walk from hotel to hotel and ask to see the rooms. Winging accommodations is not ideal but you never know what quality to expect in India. I’ve booked hotels through Agoda.com and Booking.com   to know, a hotel looked nothing like its online photos when I arrived. Many hotels and guesthouses felt old and visibly worn. Alternately, I’ve visited off-the-beaten-path towns where there are no online listings. Today, booking your hotel online is easier than it used to be. More vendors post their lodgings online and guest reviews give you an idea of the experience you’ll have.

If you’re going to wing your accommodations, it’s helpful to arrive early in the morning to beat the heat and to pack light for your India trip, so you’re not lugging a huge suitcase around. India is one of those countries where transportation can get crowded – especially public buses and metros.

Solo female travel concerns in India

There were times I was anxious about being a female traveling India alone. Staying in a room that attracts flying bugs at night or waking up to the sounds of your neighbor vomiting (due to a food bug) can sneak up on you out of the blue and intensify loneliness.  I focused on my self-discovery and spaced my time between traveling on my own and sharing time with Indian and foreign travelers I’d meet along the way. I learned the lesson of not being too cheap in my lodgings. Your hotel is your temporary home and it should feel safe and clean.

Being a woman I also knew I had to be aware of the activities and types of situations i’d naively put myself in – getting sick, getting into an accident, arriving in the wee hours of the morning without a hotel to check into… these are all teachers.

I enjoyed both ways of travel. Solo trips bolstered my confidence with navigating culture, language differences, buses written only in Sanskrit and conversing with locals. Meeting other travelers helped me with budget when I could share a room, plans or a ride. Like a tumbleweed I’d roll where the wind took me.

Table of Contents: 15 Unforgettable Towns: 3 Month Backpacking Itinerary for India

• 1.0.1 1. Mumbai
• 1.2 3. Hampi
• 1.3 4. Gokarna
• 1.5 6. Kochi/Cochin
• 1.6 6. Alleypey
• 1.7 Karnartaka
• 1.8 7. Trivandrum
• 1.9 8. Kanyakumari
• 1.10 9. Madurai
• 1.11 10. Dharamsala
• 1.12 11.  Amritsar
• 1.13 12. Delhi
• 1.14 13. Agra
• 1.15 Ladakh
• 1.16 14. Leh
• 1.17 15. Nubra Valley
• 1.18 Getting Around: What is the best way to get around India?
• 1.19.1 What would you add to this India backpacking route? I’ve laid out a 3-month backpacking itinerary India that takes you through 15 cities to visit in India. Would you try it?

My India Route:A 3 Month India Backpacking Itinerary

I’m laying out a three-month India backpacking itinerary that takes you through 15 unforgettable cities to visit in India. I’ll share quick notes of my highlights and information.

It can feel challenging to sightsee  Mumbai on your own. Mumbai is a big city, a pulsing metropolis of India, and the home of the Bollywood industry. There are a throng of things to do and see here from historical sights, trendy cafes, exploring its food and nightlife. My first three days I felt lost, although I managed to cover what i’m sharing here. Watch the iconic dabbawalas (lunchbox delivery men) on their delivery hustle to corporate offices, or hop on a ferry to Elephanta Island’ s ancient cave temples (this makes a nice day trip). Doing a Mumbai Food Tour is a must and Chowpatty Beach is the perfect beach spot for sampling street food fried up by a cove of kiosk food vendors. The beach is known for the Ganesh Visarjan , a 10 day festival where idols of Ganesh are submerged.

My favorite attraction of Mumbai was the Dhobi Ghats, where you can witness the dhobi community slap, suds and steam press Mumbai’s laundry. It’s said that with all the linens they launder from businesses and households, not a sock goes missing. The vats and hanging colored linens reminded me of Fes’ tanneries .

Lastly, for a unique experience, hop a train from Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus . It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the busiest train stations in India. The intercity trains are a little archaic compared to Delhi’s metro. They feel like a tin can on wheels.

Note: Dharavi Slum tours has quickly gained tourist popularity due to the Slumdog Millionaire film. Tours can be exploitative of the poverty in the community. Please do your research in advance. Make sure you are going with an ethical tour that is paying the local community for their interactions.  See my 30 tips for the ethical traveler

Transportation: VIP tourist overnight bus.

Inside Tips for Solo Travelers in Goa

Prices in Mumbai can run a little higher due to the fact it’s Mumbai.  Do your research on accommodations in advance. To reduce the overwhelm, book a Mumbai city sightseeing tour

Check out fun Mumbai activities & day trips

Wanna join a my India group trip or make it a private tour? Dive into local culture, food and off-beaten-path gems without the stress

Goa is a hot beach destination for Indian travelers and for tourists traveling India. Beaches, swaying palms, and laid-back vibes define Goa. Hike through spice plantations , party in beach shacks, or try your hand at watersports like jet-skiing surfing or kayaking. Known for its rave party culture, you’ll find DJ beats spun on the sand, foreign backpackers echoing Bob Marley dreds and scantily clad women in leather miniskirts on the back of motorcycles. Vendors go around the beach offering massages or fresh cut fruits. It’s a bit of a pretentious adult carnival.  It’s India without being Indian.

Each beach has a bit of it’s own character, whether it is DJs pumping rave vibes on the sand to private resort beaches, who allow the occasional nude sun-bather under a cabana, Goa has a mix. Read my top 5 Goa beaches .

Goa beaches and rave scene was not my cup of tea. I met up with fellow travel bloggers in Goa, which killed time for me and was spent at beach bars hiding from the sun. When I rented a motorbike and zoom-zoomed along hills, to sight see farm fields, local markets and different beach regions of Goa, the region redeemed itself and took on a vibrant new color.

Tip: Don’t miss a trip to Dudhsagar Falls or to the latin quarter of Panajii . These are spots I missed and wished I had visited to enhance my experience of Goa.

Goa Activities :

• Explore North Goa for a day by car
• Nibble your way through a Goa Street Food Tour
• Do a day trip to Dudhsagar Waterfalls and Plantation
• Enjoy the bar scene of Goa with a Goa Pub crawl
• Do a Heritage Walk of Panaji, Goa’s Latin Quarter
• Visit a Goa Spice Plantation
• Experience Scuba Diving in Northern Goa
• Do a Full-day Goa Sightseeing Tour to see all that Goa has to offer

Transportation to the Next Destination: I took VIP/tourist sleeper bus and I will never do that again! Read my experience

Inside & Safety Tips for Solo Travelers in Goa

Goa is hot, especially near the beaches. Eco-friendly sunscreen is a must and take a hat with a wide brim. Stay hydrated.  It wasn’t my favorite destination for that fact. Although I did not experience any safety issues in Goa, there are a lot of travelers and Goa is known for its rave and hippie scene. Beware of travel theft and touts that can affect your stay negatively. Avoid drug usage so you can keep your street smarts about you and to avoid landing in an Indian jail.

Ghostly. Ruin-ly. Hampi stretches far and wide, so if you plan to see most of it, allow yourself at least three days.  It’s a hot and arid environment and you’ll want to take water with you on your hike.

The town is separated by a river and each morning, elephants come to the river to bathe. Local ladies wash their clothes in the river and you can cross is by ferry. On one side of the river, there is a semi-lush bank with hippie type of guesthouses, small cafes and a hilly range. Hike to the Monkey Temple during sunset for the best view overlooking all of Hampi.

The other side of the river is the small, rustic town, with local shops, cafes and local residences. More ruins reside on this side of the river and they are more architectural, sprinkled with grazing goats. You can reach them on foot or bike.  Rent a bicycle or motorbike (but only if you know how to ride. I got into a motorbike accident! )  or taxi to explore the further ruins and the countryside.

Transportation: I took the Government bus to Hampi, although a tourist bus is available too.

Travel & Safety Tips for Solo Travelers in Hampi

The Hampi climate is arid and there’s little trees for shade. Definitely wear sunscreen and take a hat with a wide brim. Stay hydrated- I almost passed out from the heat and hiking.  Hampi wasn’t my favorite destination largely because i’m not fond of arid environments, but it can be a photogenic place.

There are resident monkeys when you visit the temple. Be sure to seal all loose items up if you have a daypack. Visit my Hampi Guide. \

Don’t want to travel India alone? Join my India group trip or make it a private tour ? Dive into local culture, food and off-beaten-path gems without the stress

Gokarna is one of the top five pilgrimmage towns, dedicated to the Lord Shiva. Gokarna has three main beaches: OM beach, Kudle beach and GoKarna Beach with two secluded beaches. Some beaches have coves and are great for sunbathing while others offer watersport opportunities.The beaches are spread out. Some temples do not allow foreigners in or have specific rules like forbidding women with their menustration period.

Ask locals about which beaches are good to swim in. Some beaches have choppy waves and are not swimable and others aren’t very clean and should be avoided if you have open cuts or wounds. A friend of mine (who I got into the motorbike accident with) jumped into the ocean for a swim; sadly, his cuts got infected and he had to stay in Gokarna until he could walk again.

There are options for lodgings in each beach residences. Accommodations range from super cheap but basic beach cabanas, guesthouses and hotels.

Aside from beaches, Gokarna is a small rustic town surrounded by nature, beaches, guesthouses and local residences.  Aside from beaches, you might feel limited. There’s not a lot of splashy attractions. Visit the Koti Turti ghat – a local bathing spot, do a  Gokarna food tasting tour , beach hop Gokarna & take in the sunsent at Om Beach or do a nature walk of Gokarna.   I took in a show at the local community theater and it was a wonderful surprise.

Check out this GetyourGuide listing for more Gokarna guided activities

Transportation: Government bus. Taking the government bus from Hampi, got me into Gokarna’s outdoor bus station at 3am and every business is closed at that hour. Luckily, there were other travelers on the bus and we all banded together to find a beach to sleep on. Check  bus timetables. Beaches are also occupied by resident cows. Watch where you sleep.;)

The backwaters beckon in Kerala. That’s what defines Kerala. “God’s Country” is a land of lush lagoons, swaying coconut palms, and river houseboats.  Visit Munnar’s rolling hills and tea plantations , or soak in the Ayurveda wellness scene. Kochi’s bustling markets and Mattancherry’s Jewish Synagogue offer glimpses into Kerala’s diverse heritage.

Travel & Safety Tips for Solo Travelers in Kerala

Kerala surprised me as a lush, clean and well-maintained state with universities. The climate certainly felt gentler than the previous states and the vibe was more relaxed. Although I did not experience any safety issues, scams or touts, it’s always best to keep your street smarts about you.

6. Kochi/Cochin

Kerala’s maritime jewel, Cochin, has a lot of colonial charm , bustling markets, and serene backwaters and beaches. The Chinese fishing nets with their giant fishing nets was the first image that drew me wanting to visit Kochi ( aka Cochin) . Take in Kochi’s highlights by strolling Fort Kochi , where Dutch and Portuguese heritage lingers in colorful streets and spice-laden air, explore Mattancherry’s Jewish Synagogue , the oldest in the Commonwealth, and bargain for vibrant silks and spices in Jew Town .

Day trips: Hop on a traditional dhow to cruise the Vembanad Lake , witnessing serene villages and lush greenery while savoring fresh seafood on board or experience a backwater village eco boat tour .  Munnar’s lush tea plantations and rolling hills are just 3.5 hours from Kochi. From bustling spice markets to tranquil backwaters, Cochin offers a kaleidoscope of maritime charm.

• Spend a night on a Alapphuza backwaters boat
• Attend a traditional Kathakali dance show, where dancers tell ancient stories through elaborate makeup and expressive movements.

Transportation to the Next Destination: Local bus

Getting There:   From arrival into Ernakulam train station, take taxi into Fort Kochi. The Ernakulam bus station has a nearby (walking distance) ferry that you can take direct to Fort Kochi as well. It’s much cheaper than a taxi into the area.

6. Alleypey

Alleypey is a charming town on Kerala’s backwaters is a gateway to a unique experience. I enjoyed it, found its lushness beautiful and I could see staying there a week or longer. There are surrounding canals and a main passenger boat station. The town has a really lovely Catholic church. It was the first western church I’ve seen in India– pews and all. In India, I got used to visiting a lot of Hindu and Sikh temples where you must walk barefoot out of respect. So seeing a Catholic church was a bit of culture shock.

Alleypey is known for its traditional backwater houseboat experience, a floating homestay complete with bedrooms, kitchen, and sundeck. Glide through peaceful river canals, spotting birds on marshes, fishermen pulling up baskets with fresh catch, and the occasional toddy tapper climbing palm trees extract the local palm wine. You don’t have to book a river boat to see this, although I did.

I stayed at a lovely guesthouse and rode the local community boat to its local stops. The town of Alleypey is quaint with local character. It’s a lovely town to rest in if you you’re doing a backpacking trip.

Excursions for Solo Travelers :

• Take a Backwater Shikkara Cruise for a day
• Enjoy a Walking Tour at Night in Alleypey
• Take a Home cooking class in Alleypey
• Explore the highlights of Alleypey by private car

7. Trivandrum

Trivandrum is a bustling college and administrative town with a train and bus station.  I really wanted to practice yoga in India . Trivandrum was my hub in getting to the Sivananda Ashram , which was on the outskirts of the city.  Sadly, I stayed in the hotel area across the train station, so I didn’t explore the city of Trivandrum. Getting to the ashram, was 30 minutes from the train station. I took a crowded local bus (the type where you see in pictures where everyone is packed like sardines! Read my guide to Indian buses .  After that bus experience, I quite fell in love with the local way of getting around.

The Sivananda yoga ashram (read about my stay ) is in a very chill location and you can hear lions at night, which folks say are from a nearby zoo.  I made travel friends that i’m friends with til today.

 Excursions: Take a Guided Walking Tour at Night

Check out my week-long yoga ashram experience in Trivandrum

8. Kanyakumari

Where the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, and Bay of Bengal converge, Kanyakumari is a sight to behold. Kanyakumari has a unique charm with its beach vibes. Located at the very southern tip of India, you wont find many foreign tourists. So I enjoyed this gem.  Stroll to the beach, where streets are lined with seashell vendors.

Take a boat ride to Vivekananda Rock Memorial  and visit Mata Temple and the memorial where Gandhi’s ashes were spread.Although the attractions felt few compared to larger cities, they were close together and easy to get to by foot.

Try the dosas and pakoras in this area. You can cover Kanyakumari in 2-3 days. Check out my Kanyakumari Trip Guide.

Transportation to the Next Destination:  Government buses

Dive into the vibrant chaos of Madurai, a city known for its magnificent Meenakshi Temple . Travelers can enter it but only locals are allowed to visit the heart of the temple. Marvel at the intricately carved gopurams (tower gateways), wander through bustling bazaars, and witness the vibrant “puja” (worship) ceremonies. Don’t miss the sound and light show at the temple for a mesmerizing experience.  Read my Madurai Experience (it still needs updating)

Tip: Many Indian tailors can be found walking through the bazaar, if you want to get a custom outfit down. Try the Madurai dosa- it’s a banana leaf Thali. This region is known for it.

Transportation to the Next Destination: Flight to Delhi, Overnight Bus, Local bus

10. Dharamsala

Dharamsala’s not just a destination. Months can melt away here as you chase mindful bliss through yoga, meditation, and a touch of Buddhism. Backpackers flock to Mcleodganj, its friendly guesthouses and international flavors nestled alongside local life and chanting monks. Bargain for long stays! It’s so serene here.  Hike to Triund f or breathtaking Himalayan views, or learn about Tibetan culture at the Tsuglagkhang temple complex or visit the Karmapa .

A month and a half immersed in a yoga teacher training program and the intoxicating atmosphere of “Little Tibet” left me forever changed.

This mountain haven feels worlds away from bustling India. Lush green vistas unfurl beneath a sky alive with clouds, butterflies, and the occasional eagle soaring on the thermals. Crisp mountain air carries through the streets with the faint scent of musky incense.

This “Little Tibet” holds a tiny mecca of inclined streets lined with shops, international restaurants, crimson-robed monks and souvenir shops. It’s a small community of long-staying travelers, Tibetan Buddhists and Indians and a bit of a backpacker hippie town.  Weekends are perfect for hiking. It’s much cooler in this area around April. While the rest of India has you feeling like stripping down, this town will urge you to buy a wool blanket sold at one of the many shops or street vendors.

Mcleodganj’s food scene is a tantalizing tapestry of Tibetan and international flavors and street food. But a word to the wise: a rogue samosa from a street vendor sent me on a tour of the local healthcare system. My advice? Pack my street food safety guide  before you go! And never venture to India without travel insurance (check out this trip insurance finder tool ) – my hospital visits became a testament to its value.

Travel & Safety Tips for Solo Travelers in Dharamsala

Safety reigns supreme in this small, predominantly Buddhist town, but some paths get spooky at night – keep precautions close. Pack a surge protector! Power cuts and lightning storms love these mountains, and my laptop didn’t. Learn from my fried circuits.

Ways to get to Dharamsala:

1) long distance overnight bus. And if you book the wrong bus, potentially a transfer to another local bus or taxi. (I did this) 2) Take a plane to Gaggal Airport (you might be on the same flight as the Dalai Lama!) and a taxi or bus to Dharamsala 3) Take the train to Pathankot railway station and hail a taxi or bus

Transportation:  Hired car and driver

Check out my Dharamasala Trip Guide

11.  Amritsar

Surrounded by gentle farmland on the outside, getting into the heart of the Amritsar, is like walking into an organized and much cleaner version of India.  Immerse yourself in the spiritual energy of Amritsar, home to the Golden Temple, Sikhism’s holiest shrine. Sikhs are known to be historically fierce warriors, but their spirituality practices quite the opposite. Their reliigion does not discriminate between caste, religion or gender and you can savor a langar (free community meal) in their temple complex. Don’t miss the Wagah-Border ceremony , a display of patriotism at the India-Pakistan border and if you love off-beat sites, definitely visit the Mata Temple. It was the craziest and coolest temple i’ve seen!  Check out my Amritsar Guide

Amritsar Excursions :

• Eat your way through Amritsar on a Food Walk
• Do a Amritsar Highlights and Wagah Border tour
• Explore Golden Temple & Wagah Border Ceremony

Transportation:   Indian Railways, 3AC Sleeper

Delhi, India’s bustling capital offers a dizzying mix of history, culture, and modernity. Marvel at the Mughal grandeur of the Red Fort,   Humayun Tomb and Qutab Minar , explore the spice markets of Chandni Chowk . I took a local tour of Chandni Chowk with Women for World . Highly recommended. shop for handcrafted treasures at Dilli Haat . Don’t miss a sunset boat ride on the Yamuna River for a peaceful escape from the city’s buzz. See my Delhi city guide

Safety Tips for Solo Travelers in Delhi

Delhi is one of the more trickier cities in India and yet, it’s a top tourist destination. Indian locals know Delhi to have occasional scammers and cheats. I’d say you’re more likely to experience this type of activity vs any physical danger like muggings. But walking the streets as a woman can feel intimidating when you see a sea of men all around and occupying all the main jobs. If you are wondering why that is, it is because Indian women usually stay indoors.

Delhi Activities:

• Do an Old and New Delhi City Private Guided Day Trip
• Local Dinner tour in Old Delhi
• Take an Akshardam Temple tour with light show
• From Delhi: Taj Mahal and Agra Fort Private Sunrise Tour
• From Delhi: Jaipur Guided Day tour
• From Delhi: 5 Day Tiger Safari + Golden Triangle

Transportation :  Indian Railways, 3AC

Agra is good for a 1-2 day visit. Come face-to-face with Agra’s most exquisite architectural love letter, the Taj Mahal . Witness the white marble shimmer under the morning sun,  and soak in the poignant love story of Shah Jahan and Mumitaz. If there’s time visit the Agra Fort, a majestic Mughal fortress, offers stunning views of the Taj. Then weave through Tajganj gritty charm. Haggle in alley markets, slurp lassi from a local stall, and get a cheap haircut. For a dose of social impact, grab a smoothie at Jonie’s or empower acid attack survivors at Sheroes Cafe , their courage is contagious.

Agra Activities :

• Visit the Taj Mahal and Baby Taj
• From Delhi: Taj Mahal & Agra Tour by Gatimaan Express Train

Transportation to the Next Destination: Indian Railways

Download my 25 Solo Travel Mistakes to Avoid Checklist

Ladakh was my first Heaven on Earth destination. Visit  Khardung La , the world’s highest motorable road, snakes through stark, moon-like landscapes of Nubra Valley and the Shyok Rive r. Explore the 10th century Diskit Monastery   and Thiksey Monastery and visit during the monk chants. Don’t miss the surreal gravity-defying Magnetic Hill , where cars seem to roll uphill in defiance of physics. Or do a trek to Pangong Lake, a high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The heaven on earth landscape is reminiscent of Northern Pakistan , which runs parallel to Ladakh.

Best time to visit is during the Hemis Festival in summer

Visit my Ladakh Trip Highlights blog post

Transportation: Plane

You can take the bus, but only during the right season, when the roads open and mountain passes are safe. You must explore Ladakh by car and bus.

Ladakh’s capital, Leh , is a dusty town with a fond Tibetan heart. It’s not beautiful like the landscapes around it, but it offers a vibrant mix of bazaars, monasteries, and stunning mountain views. Explore its sidewalk street shops, where shop owners spin their prayer wheels as they await business, and hike to Shanti Stupa for  panoramic views. Acclimatize before embarking on treks.

15. Nubra Valley

Nubra Valley is a stark Ladakh landscape with vibrant life. Bactrian camels walking across sand dunes, Buddhist monasteries clinging to cliff sides, and rugged mountains house turquoise glacial lakes.  Nubra’s charm lies in its dramatic contrasts that look like an alien landscape, juxtaposed with the warmth of nomadic communities. Pass through Khardung La, the world’s highest motorable pass, or sipping apricot tea with locals, Nubra Valley is a stunning landscape.

Getting Around: What is the best way to get around India?

Navigating your 3-month India adventure? Public transport reigns supreme for budget-conscious backpackers, offering an immersive experience with its quirks and charms.

Buses: My go-to for city hops. Choose VIP sleepers for comfort (book online via RedBus or 12GoAsia ). Local buses are slower, hit more stops, and require small change. English proficiency varies, so prepare for some charades. My Gokarna arrival at 3 am was…adventurous (think cows and darkness). Check out my guide on how to deal with language barriers .

Hated the Indian sleeper bus : uncomfortable seats, anxiety-inducing bathrooms, and near-abandonment stories left me scarred. But hey, budget travel!

Trains: Convenient and comfy, they whisk you city to city, with bathrooms onboard (squat or broken western, be warned!). Booking at stations or through agents (no online option yet) is the norm. Find all the details in my Guide to Indian Trains !

Rideshare apps: There are a few rideshare apps but I like Uber

Definitely check out my other India transit guides:

• Indian transportation guide
•   Taking the bus in India .
• Sleeper train etiquette
•   foreign quota tickets

Is India Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Overall, I’ve felt more safe traveling India than I have in my own country. My tolerance level may be higher than others as I’ve lived in different metropolitan cities and traveled different countries.

Solo Female Safety: I felt safer in India than at home, but awareness and street smart traveling is key. Sexual harassment exists, and while media portrays India as a rape capital, research reveals other countries fare worse (research various world population sites on rape by country per capita to gain a better perspective). Still, I definitely traveled practicing street smarts to avoid scams ,  prevent travel theft, avoid sexual advances.

It’s fun to meet locals and fellow travelers, but avoid being too friendly to Indian men, even married ones. Indian women can be a little more conservative and discerning with their interactions with the opposite sex.  Indian men can take friendly as sexual friendliness. Avoid taking photos with men unless you know them well and by all means, do not give your phone number out. Or you will get plagued with phone calls and texts.

Touristy areas attract aggressive touts and that will be perhaps the biggest bug you’ll experience in India. Read my blog to know how to deal with them. My pickpocketing guide might come in handy.

Avoid late-night train arrivals and arrange early check-ins.

Book clean and well-reviewed hotels in safe locations.

Bonus: Dive deeper into my guides for the full experience!

• My 3 month India packing list
• Getting an India Tourist Visa for Americans
• Trip planning for India
• Rajasthan roadtrip itinerary- 8 days
• 25 Things to Know before traveling India (READ BEFORE YOU GO)
• my crash course as a solo traveler and an interview with another female solo traveler .

What would you add to this India backpacking route? I’ve laid out a 3-month backpacking itinerary India that takes you through 15 cities to visit in India. Would you try it?

Notes: 3 month backpacking itinerary India, cities to visit in India for 3 months, India backpacking route in 3 months

   My Travel Survival Cheat Sheet

• eSim I’m using to stay connected abroad. Activate it before or on your trip!
• Skyroam – Global wifi (take 10% off with referral code GRRRLTRAVELER )
• Trip Insurance Finder Tool for budget travelers looking for trip insurance to fit specific needs.
• I get my adventure trip insurance from World Nomads trip insurance (they cover travel theft)
• Expedia for great weekend trip package deals
• Take your yoga traveling and book a yoga retreat/ training .
• Book hotels  without a cancellation fee. Use this Hotel Comparison Tool to find the lowest prices!
• Book chic hostels with Hostelworld
• Ditch and store your luggage at local businesses for under $10/day
• 12goAsia Book trains and buses.
• Discover Cars  finds the best car rental price quote.
• GRRRLTRAVELER Group Adventure trip : Travel with me beyond YouTube.

Download my 25 Solo Travel Mistakes to AVOID Checklist

And Get my Travel Survival Blog Updates

Related Posts

17 Romantic Things to Enjoy in Kyoto Alone

A Rajasthan Roadtrip (My 8 day itinerary) and Top Places in Rajasthan

My Udaipur Travel Guide: 18 Wanderlust things to do in Udaipur for a 3 day itinerary

Group adventure trips 2024.

KEEP ME ON THE ROAD

Solo Travel Survival Tools

YouTube Mentoring & Services

My Latest Gear Review

I'm Christine! I film my travels 100% alone, so get confident traveling alone too!

GRRRL Discounts We Love

70% OFF 3-year plan + 1 month FREE: Use code: GRRRLTRAVELER 

Copyright & Affiliate Link Disclosure

All content on is this site ©GRRRLTRAVELER. Artwork on this site from contributors have special permissions for our use.

Global Gallivanting

My complete step by step guide to planning a trip to india.

My Guide to Planning a Trip to India

Incredible India is possibly the most exciting, diverse and life changing place to travel in the world! But India is a country that challenges and frustrates a visitor almost as much as it delights, enchants and rewards which makes planning a trip to India no simple task.

For many people travelling in India is a highlight of all their travels and they return again and again but, for some, they find the culture shock of their first trip to India is quite overwhelming. Many travellers have a love/ hate relationship with India , especially the first time, it gets easier once you get used to India and know what to expect!

The right preparation can go a long way to making sure your first trip to India is memorable for all the right reasons. I’ve spent over 10 years traveling all around this fascinating country and here’s my guide to help you plan a trip to India.

If you want expert help with planning your Indian adventure then contact India Someday . They are expert India trip planners and can help with all aspects of traveling India from creating the perfect itinerary based on your specific dates, interests and needs to booking accommodation and transport and taking all the hassle out of trip planning.

India Someday are perfect if you want some assistance with planning your trip to India but don’t want to take a group tour. Check out my experience traveling with India Someday and quote GLOBALGALLIVANTING5 to get 5% off the trip planning fee.

So Here’s How To Plan A Trip to India!

Step1: start researching the best places to visit in india and make a rough travel route.

Many people prefer to stay flexible and not to over plan their itinerary for their trip to India. Most of the time I travel this way, India is not a good place to attempt a rushed itinerary and I do not like to have a fixed itinerary because you never know if you will want to change your plans, love somewhere and want to stay longer, or hate somewhere and want to leave or be inspired by other travellers to visit somewhere that you have never even heard about before.

But this is such a vast and diverse country and traveling here can be challenging so it’s a good idea to at least research when and where you want to visit and try to plan a rough route around the main attractions that you want to see to avoid wasting time.

Check out my suggestions for the perfect India Itinerary to get started and see the Top 5 places in India that you’d be crazy to miss.

Step 2: Research the best time to travel to India

India really is a huge sub continent and as such the weather changes considerably depending on where you go. Generally speaking for most areas the best time to visit India is in the winter from November to March  as cooler temperatures make traveling more pleasant.

From March things starts to get pretty hot, the heat and humidity of April and May do not make for a pleasant travel experience and the monsoon rains come from June –September.

However, if you plan to travel in the far North or Himalayan regions winter would be too cold – contrary to popular belief it is not always hot in India and it does snow! If you wanted to visit areas like Leh and Ladakh the best time to do this is in the Summer.

Check out this useful infographic by Tripzuki that easily shows where to go and when! Check out the pros and cons of visiting Goa in monsoon and where to travel in July and August to avoid the worst of the rains.

Step 3: Decide which places you want to visit in India and make an itinerary

One of the best things about traveling in India is the amazing diversity in this sub continent – from snow capped Himalayan mountains to tropical beaches, from languid backwaters to chaotic cites and desert forts.

There sure is a lot to see in India but my top tip for traveling India is to take it slow ! India is not a place to rush around and trying to see too much will end up in a stressed instead of enjoyable trip. If you have less than 1 month in India then I would concentrate on one area.

Think about what you are interested in – whether it is history, forts and palaces or nature, wildlife, temples or beaches, food or nightlife. India really does have it all but it would take a lifetime to fit it all in that’s why many people spend numerous trips for months at a time exploring India. But if you are short on time then you have to decide.

Like This? Pin Me! 

For first time visitors I usually recommend to go South first – get acclimatized to India in laid back Kerala or Goa before tackling the big sights and chaotic cities in the North.

The Golden Triangle is a popular first time route that encompasses the big sights in the capital Delhi, Agra (home to the Taj Mahal) and the pink city of Jaipur. If you have more time then exploring more of Rajasthan – India’s most flamboyant state and the fascinating holy city of Varanasi on the river Ganges are essential Indian experiences.

For more suggestions check out my Perfect First Time in India Itinerary .   and the Top 5 places in India you really can’t miss .

If you want to take a group tour then take a look at the best routes and tours of India I recommend.

Step $: Work out a budget for your trip to India

Traveling in India is so affordable and it is still one of the cheapest places to travel in the world ! You could backpack around India for very little money and most backpackers and budget travellers here can travel comfortably and easily on a budget of $20 – $30 per day . Although, as India is modernising there are now many options to travel in more comfort with world class luxury hotels and Western brands giving travellers the temptation to splurge.

See more about how much it costs to travel around India  and the average daily budget for backpacking India. 

Step 5: Get your vaccinations for traveling in India

One of the biggest worries people have when visiting India is about getting sick.  You should visit your doctor to check if you need any vaccinations and get professional health advice before traveling to India. Don’t leave this to the last minute, go about 6 – 8 weeks before traveling because some of the vaccinations require a course of treatment spanning several weeks. The NHS Fit for Travel website has good information about recommended vaccinations as well as health and safety tips for India.

Most travellers make sure all their usual jabs are up to date and get vaccinated for Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Tetanus and Typhoid. Vaccines for Cholera, Diphtheria,  Japanese Encephalitis and Rabies are also recommended. If your doctor cannot provide all of these then you can visit a private specialised travel health clinic like Nomad Travel Health Clinic. 

Stock up on a DEET based insect repellent to protect against malaria and dengue fever. In most areas of India the risk of Malaria is low, apart from areas in the North East , see a map of Malaria affected areas here . Many travellers decide that the risk of Malaria is not high enough to warrant the side effects and costs of antimalarial tablets. Talk to your GP or a specialised health clinic and seek professional medical advice about what vaccinations are required and are suitable for you.

Spicy food and lapse hygiene practices do mean that unfortunately many travellers to India do experience a bit of ‘ Delhi Belly ’ but most of the time rest and ride through it and you will feel better in a few days (another reason to take it slow)

To avoid getting sick never drink tap water, always drink bottled water and avoid ice. Also be careful with salads, fruit and uncooked food and be really careful with street food too. Many travellers also stick to eating vegetarian food of which there is a huge and delicious variety here. I find it useful to drink pro biotic yoghurts to help build up the good bacteria in my immune system and also take anti diarrhoea tablets and antibiotics like ciproflaxin with you.

See more Tips to avoid getting sick in India 

Step 6: Apply for a Tourist Visa for India

All visitors require a visa to visit India, apart from citizens of Bhutan and Nepal. So applying for your visa is a super essentail step in planning to travel to India!

As of Feb 2019 citizens from 161 countries can now apply online for tourist, business and medical E-Visas valid for upto 1 year meaning it’s now easier than every before to get a visa for India! Horay! 🙂  Read this post with all the information on how to apply for an E-Visa for India.  

Why is this not one of the first things I recommend for you to prepare? Well, bear in mind that the visa is valid from the date of issue not the date of arrival in India, so you need to plan where and when you will travel in India before applying for your visa to make sure it doesn’t expire before your trip!

You can apply for an E Visa to India on the government website here , but there’s still quite a lot of paperwork and the fee is non refundable even if your visa is rejected. To save time and hassle its easier and quicker to use a company like iVisa .  

Step 7: Book your flights to India!

Once you’ve got your Indian visa you can finalise your travel plans, book your flights to India, get excited and let the countdown begin!

I always search for the best deals on Skyscanner   because you can search for the whole month and for all airports in India as being flexible will allow you to take advantage of the best deals and cheapest prices. Expedia are also good for booking cheap flights and hotels. It’s often cheaper to get an indirect flight and maybe you could even explore a new destination like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Muscat or Istanbul on your stop over!

My preferred airlines to fly to India are Jet Airways, Qatar and British Airways as these airlines offer the best prices, service and quickest route to India from the UK. If I’m flying to Mumbai or Delhi I usually go direct with Jet Airways and I like getting in the mood for my India trip catching up on all the Bollywood movies and having Indian food on the plane.  Air India are often a little cheaper but Jet are much better. Virgin also fly direct from London to Delhi and Mumbai and are also good.

For flying to Goa , you can get direct flights and package holidays from the UK with Thomson  and Thomas Cook in the tourist season. Otherwise you’ll have to change in Mumbai, Delhi or the Middle East. I usually go with Jet Airways (changing in Mumbai or Delhi) or   Qatar from UK to Goa as the service, food and entertainment are really good, you get a whopping 45kg luggage allowance with Qatar and they have the quickest and most hassle free connection (changing from a domestic to international flight in Mumbai sometimes requires you to leave the airport and travel to the other airport which is annoying)   Oman Air  are also a good choice, the prices are often cheaper but the layover in Muscat is longer and the planes aren’t quite as comfortable.

If you are short on time and plan to take domestic flights within India you can find cheaper deals the further in advance you book. Jet Airways and Indigo and Air Asia are the best for domestic flights. You can sometimes find some cheap deals with Indigo and Air Asia but still flying is far more expensive than taking the train, but unlike trains flights do not often get fully booked so flights are good for last minute travel. Again, check Skyscanner whole month to find the best deal.

Step 8: Book your train tickets

India is vast and traveling large distances take a long time. The best way to travel India is using the wide reaching and great value for money Indian railways network.

But in the world’s most populous country seats sell out fast and trains are often booked up weeks or even months ahead . It’s a good idea to book your train tickets in advance, especially if you are on a short trip or tight itinerary, to ensure that your travels go as smoothly as possible.

Booking train tickets for Indian Railways can seem confusing at first but with Clear Trip  it is possible for foreigners to book train tickets online before arriving in India. If you don’t manage to book trains in advance you can visit major stations a few days before travel to try and get a ticket from the Tourist or Taktal (emergency) Quota.

Failing that you can always take the bus but taking the train is so much more comfortable and an essential Indian experience.

Find out more about Indian railways and how to book train tickets in my Ultimate Guide to Train Travel in India

Update 2018! You can now book Indian trains and buses quickly and easily on 12Go.Asia !

Step 9: Book your first few nights accommodation.

It’s usually quite easy to travel around India, turn up and find budget accommodation as you go in most places. Allowing for the spontaneity and flexibility is all part of the adventure in India but I would recommend that you at least book the first couple of nights accommodation.  Especially if arriving in Delhi and if your flight arrives late at night you might also want to request an airport transfer to your hotel to avoid hassle and potential scams when you first arrive.

I like to use Booking.com because the price is good, you don’t have to pay in advance, if plans change it is usually easy to cancel the reservation and only people who have booked that hotel through Booking.com can leave a review so you can trust the reviews. You can get an app on your phone so you can search and book easily as you travel.

After the first few days, as long as you are not too fussy, you should not have problems finding suitable accommodation when you arrive in a new town. The advantage of doing this is that you can look around the area, inspect a few properties and meet the staff and negotiate the price and actually many of the very cheap accommodation options in India are still not available to book online.

However, I would advise pre booking accommodation during festivals and busy times like Christmas and New Year in Goa or the Pushkar Camel Fair or other festivals when accommodation may become fully booked.

Step 10: Apply for an International Driving License

Hiring a scooter, moped or motorbike is cheap and easy in India and is an especially popular way to get around in places like Goa although first time visitors may find the Indian traffic a bit too chaotic for their liking!  Most guest houses will be able to either rent you a motorbike or know someone that can and most of the time its a pretty casual affair. Expect to pay about 200 – 300 rupees a day for a scooter, more for an iconic Royal Enfield or less if you negotiate a longer term rental.

An international driving permit (the 1949 version)  is required to ride a motorbike in India, you can get this from the Post Office before you leave for only £5.50 and it is valid for a year. Police often stop tourists to check if they have the international driving permit and fine then if they don’t –  and be aware that the international permit is only valid when accompanied by your normal driving license so you need to carry both with you.

It is unusual to rent a car without a driver in India, although this is often very affordable if you do not wish to tackle the Indian traffic yourself!

See more and apply for an International Driving License here and see more Tips for riding a motorbike in India here.

Step 11: Don’t forget to take out travel insurance

Anything could happen when your traveling whether in developed countries or developing ones. It’s just not worth the risk to gamble with your health and, increasingly so, expensive possessions.

Most insurance companies require that you take out a travel insurance policy before you leave home, check the small print of several policies to find the one that offers the best deal for the amount covered, length of your trip, the activities that you plan on doing and the excess that you are willing to pay if you need to claim.

If you have forgotten to take out insurance before you leave the only exception I know is World Nomads Travel Insurance. They also offer great cover and customer service. It’s not worth taking the risk both with your health and as travellers take increasing amounts of technology and valuables on the road with them you will want to be covered for those expensive cameras and smart phones and laptops too.

I use World Nomads because they offer the best coverage and custom service plus you can get cover or extend cover even if you are already traveling whereas most other insurers only cover you if you have not yet left your home country. You can get a quote for World Nomads Travel Insurance here and see more tips about travel insurance in India in this post.

Step 12: Decide what to pack for a trip to India

Packing for India and deciding what to wear can be really confusing for first time visitors, especially for women. When packing for India, it’s important to take into account the country’s conservative dress standards and it is possible to cover up without over heating.

Loose and lightweight clothing is the best option and remember that pretty much anything you could ever need is available to buy in India, often for a lower price than at home and don’t over pack – you can always buy more, it’s easy to get laundry done and it’s a real drag carrying a heavy bag.

• Clothing: Bring loose, light fitting long tops and baggy pants or have fun shopping for colourful India clothes, kurta and salwar kamez – a more practical day to day option that a full length sari. Comfortable, good quality flip flops or sandals and light weight trainers are essential and also bring a fleece for over zealous air conditioning or cold winter nights.
• Gadgets: If you only bring one gadget make it your smart phone as it does everything. Get your phone unlocked so that when you arrive you can get an Indian sim card. Obtaining an Indian sim card is not the simplest process but it well worth it as it will make your travels in India a lot easier, and, as a solo female traveller, I would not be without one. See here  How to get a Sim Card in India .  The easiest way to get connected is hiring a smartphone and Indian sim card from Trabug
• Other essential items include ear plugs, an eye mask, hand sanitizer, pocket tissues, a small padlock and flash light, a sleeping sheet and pillow and some medicines and toiletries (for example tampons can still be hard to find) are useful although if you forget all these can be found in India. The Indian adapters are very different from US, Europe or other parts of Asia and difficult to find at home. It’s usually quite easy to find ones once you get here but they are usually pretty bad quality. If you want to get prepared you could order an  Indian Travel Adapter on Amazon beforehand.

Money Matters:  You can’t change currency to Indian rupees outside the country but it is easy to get once you arrive in India, a money changer or an ATM is never far away. Notify your bank that you will be traveling to India to avoid your card being blocked.

See more in   My Essential India Packing List for Women backpacking India . I also have lots of tips for what to wear in India in this post.

Step 13: Mentally prepare yourself and familarize yourself with India’s culture

Although nothing can really prepare you for traveling in India reading up and learning as much as you can will certainly help prepare you for the culture shock and sensory overload of visiting India for the first time. The Lonely Planet India Travel Guides provide some information on the history and culture of India but getting a book like CultureShock! India    offers a more detailed explanation of India’s diverse and complex culture.

India is not so much a place you go to ‘see’ but a place you go to feel with all your senses – the smells, sights, sounds, tastes, colours and everything else can feel a bit chaotic and overwhelming at first but this is all part of the excitement and despite how crazy India seems at first take it slow and you will get used to it.

When you arrive remember to be patient and open minded, expect the unexpected, take it slow and try not to get stressed out or frustrated by the little things.  The Indian people are amazingly welcoming and hospitable although sadly first time travellers to India can be target for many common scams and general annoyances. But with a little research and reading up on the common scams you should soon be able to spot these a mile off and avoid them.

See How to Avoid the Scams and Survive your first time in Delhi and also check out t he sorts of common scams and how you can avoid them!

I hope this blog has helped you plan your trip to India! Whilst it’s good to be prepared also come with an open mind, open heart and expect the unexpected! Get ready for the ride of your life! Traveling in India can be the most amazing and life changing experience!

Read more India blogs to prepare for your trip to India:

• 5 Common mistakes most first time travellers in India make 
• How to get an Indian Visa (for UK citizens)
• My Top 10 tips for first time travellers in India
• My Tips for Women Traveling in India

Want more India travel tips and stories?

Sign up to the FREE newsletter and discover Incredible India with me!

Backpacking Venice on a Budget: How to see Venice for €50 a day

Typical costs and budget tips for backpacking in india.

Related posts

My top tips for volunteering in india, volunteering in uttarakhand, i’m volunteering in india, 66 comments.

Thank you for the tips! Your posts about India are all super useful and cover all the subjects! I’m pinning them and I will definitely remember them when planning my trip to India.

This is such a beautiful and informative post for anyone planning to travel to India. I am not able to recall if I have across with so much information in one post and that too first hand information. You are an inspiration to new travel bloggers like me. This is the kind of information that the travellers are looking for from the bloggers. Keep up the good work. All the very best to you.

Hi Shailender! Thank you so much! That’s so nice to hear and I hope that my articles can make it easier to people to find the information they are looking for about traveling in India. Good luck with your blog too – it looks fab so keep up the good work 🙂

Being an Indian, I can say this amazing list one can follow to start a trip to India. Skyscanner works for me the best for flight as well. Regarding insurance is must as after my Rickshaw Run accident( Head to my blog ) to read about it , I realized as Indian I need it too :)..Hope India create memories for travellers.. Btw have you seen my blog ever? Do drop your two cents there.

I know you wrote this post around 6 months ago but I just want to say that I’ve been on your blog reading up on so much information about travelling India for the past few hours now and I can’t tell you enough how appreciative I am of how helpful, clear, understanding and user-friendly all of your advice is. Keep up the good work!

I’m currently on a Gap Year and looking to begin a 5-6 month trip round India (starting in the South) in 6-8 weeks time.

Hi Dominic, I’m so glad my posts have helped you and wow it’s so lovely to hear that you have enjoyed my blog so much. Good job for starting your Indian adventure in the South! 🙂 I hope you have a really great trip and don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any more questions when preparing for your travels to India. So happy I could help! 🙂

When I came across this page, the first thing I liked was the way India was written on the heading and the 2nd, the way the blog post was written. Very informative and apt.

Thanks. IndiaVivid

Thank you! I’m glad you liked it and hope the post is useful 🙂

i always thought you never prepare for India – rather india prepares you for the best 🙂

Yes nothing can ever prepare you fully but I think good planning and research goes along way to having a smooth trip! 🙂

yeah i know ,but you got my point like spot on about ”Nothing can really prepare you thoroughly for India” 😉

Brendon Ferns 🙂

Putting this on my event page for my yoga retreat

Great! Thanks, glad you found it useful 🙂

Hi anna myself and my husband are looking into a retirement in goa , we are both fifty this year is it to early to start thinking about it and what is our first step. We have not been to goa but have a big passion of the asin culture.

Hi Nicky and Mark, thanks for getting in touch! Retiring in Goa sounds great, perhaps you could come on holiday first for a few weeks to see how you like it and start making plans from there. Good luck! 🙂

So informative! Absolutely agree with your tips.I particularly loved the map, its loaded with information on where to travel and when to travel that is going to help tourists. However, I don’t totally agree with traveling as per the season or weather part. You never know what wonderful experience awaits you until you break the path. We absolutely loved it when we went to Ooty (a hill station in south india) during the monsoons, because we loved the clouds, the rains that went on and off, and the absolute and marvelous greenery that surrounded us because of the monsoons. Checkout the full story @ http://revolvingcompass.com/wp/romancing-ooty-monsoons/ We plan to visit Goa in monsoons to enjoy the thunderstorm and the hovering black clouds over the beach. We had been to Mysore in July and it was so comfortable because it was cloudy. At times the monsoons are welcome 🙂

Hi Neha, Thanks for commenting and glad you liked the tips. I wrote it with western tourists like myself in mind, we generally are very disappointed to fly half way round the world for the weather to be rainy, cloudy or cold as that is what we are escaping from at home and also the intense Indian summer heat might also be too much for many western tourists but I agree with you that the monsoons are certainly interesting but I wouldn’t especially come to India in monsoon time – I can stay at home if I want rain! Thanks for your thoughts though, perhaps others will enjoy monsoon weather more than me!

Thank you SO much for this article. So so useful.

Hi Sarah. So glad that it helped! Hope you have a great time in India! Happy Travels 🙂

Hello Guys… Nice blog.. Good job.. Thank you so much for the information. It’s a great post…I love travelling and want to travel all over the world. Explore new places, adventurous things and many more. And photographs are just amazing. Keep writing !!!

Thanks for stopping by – I hope you get to travel the world soon!

Happy Travels 🙂

Very nice post. I liked your post and blog so much. I have read all the post of your blog. India is rich in culture, traditions, heritage buildings, temples, forts and palaces. Famous Indian Monuments includes Old Churches of Goa , Taj Mahal, Qutab Minar of Delhi, Charminar, Red fort and Jantar mantar, these are also few most visited Heritage Sites in India. India is well known for its tourist spots like Kerala’s backwaters, Ladakh for its scenic beauty, Beaches of Goa, culture of Rajasthan, Varanasi, Kashmir – Heaven on earth, Darjeeling- visitor’s paradise.

Hi Ademar, thanks so much, glad you liked the blog. I agree with you, there are so many amazing places and things to see in India! 🙂

Hi Anna, Im planning to travel to India, Uttra Pradesh in august..

Hey Kasturi – Thanks for stopping by. Hope you ave a good trip 🙂

Hi Anna, thank you for the great tips! I will be traveling to India in October and am trying to collect as much information I can before I go.

Hi Chris, so glad you found it useful! Hope you have a great time in India! 🙂

Amazingly explained the facts! It’ll be immensely helpful for the foreigners who want to visit the Incredible India and take back home a everlasting memory. Trip to India often don’t cost more as you can easily get budget-friendly hotels or resorts with all the modern amenities to enjoy. However, before traveling, you must do your home work and research about the places thoroughly that you want to explore. Anyways, thanks a lot for this insightful article.

Thanks, glad you liked the post. Yes, India can be a very budget friendly country to visit

Thankyou so much for your information and advice….I want to go October for 3 months…but as you say the hardest part is booking the ticket. Reading this has made me believe I can do it. (Solo traveller f51)

Hi Pauline! Yes, it’s can be nerve wracking to make the leap but I find that things usually come together once you start. “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step” If you are feeling nervous about traveling alone then maybe book a group tour for the first few days or a backpacker hostel where you can met other travellers. Let me know if you decide to go and how you get on or if you need any more tips 🙂

Thank you for the article. I have one question have you seen a snake while visiting? I have heard venomous snakes are popular in India.

Thanks, I’ve only seen snakes in monsoon. I’ve never heard of any friends or travellers being hurt by snakes in India – I don’t think you need to worry about snakes 🙂

I love travelling and want to travel all over the world specially in my own country.Thank you very much for your great useful information and advice.No doubt India is rich in culture, traditions, heritage buildings, temples and palaces.It’s really a great post

Thanks! Glad you liked the post! Theres so many amazing things to see in India 🙂

i am from india and i want to tell you that if you are adventure lover then you must visit rishikesh

India is beautiful country. I am searching on google India travel trip information and i found this much useful blog. I read your blog. You share the perfect information on India travel trip. Thanks you so much.

Anna, I throughly enjoyed your story. My travels have all been similar to yours but not in the way you have traveled. I was in the USAF for 30 years which gave me the opportunity to see and do things in foreign countries. After retirement from the Air Force and my wife, I have continued to travel. People always ask me why do I travel so much. Your article has given me the answer to that. Thank you. I am 95 now and in Oct I am taking one of my daughter’s to India. I have been to India 2 times before – Calcutta and Delhi – but missed the Taj. I’ll write again. Jack

Hi Jack! Great to hear you liked my blog! 🙂 Being in the USAF must have been very interesting and enabled you to travel alot! Great to hear you are taking your daughters to India – hope you have a great time!

The given information is really helpful, what I really like about the post is I can find every and what i need to plan for the trip.

Thanks for sharing the useful and unique blog post, it is really awesome, Your information very effective for the new and old visitor. Thanks Again

Thanks, Dud, you know the first time I have read a travels blog, where I found someone has shared a good and original experience about my country, I think you understand why I am saying. If you came here again visit Mathura, Rishikesh, Agra, Rajgir in Bihar and there are things in India. I tell you after the visit you will get more better experience because I know my India is incredible and traditions country. We always well come our guest. Thanks Again

“Atithi Dew Bhaw”

Thanks so much Shaurya 🙂

very good information. thanks for your help.

very good information. thanks for your help. looking forward to apply this info in my travel.

This was a really interesting post, thanks for sharing your travel experience…

This is such a useful post. I’d love for visit India! I agree about doing the research for volunteering, you have to be so careful.

Hello Anna, Thanks for your great combination and excellent guideline for traveling in the Indian subcontinent. Here I am getting a complete guideline to travel India. I gain a lot of knowledge before traveling India from your share.

Thanks! Glad you liked the article and found it useful for your next trip. Happy Travels 🙂

Thanks Anna for sharing these lovely trips. I am planning to explore India in the month of October. Your tips help me how I am planning a trip.

This blog was so impressive I have got all my require information to visit the places to India. The tourist destination you mention in your blog was so good. I have get the knowledge about various parts of India. The historical places and national parks you mentioned was so beautiful. The pictures was also appreciable.

This blog was so impressive I have got all my required information to visit the places to India. The tourist destination you mention in your blog was so good. I have got knowledge of various parts of India. The historical places and national parks you mentioned was so beautiful. The pictures were also appreciable.

Thanks so much 🙂

Hi Anna, that was really informative stuff I have read. Thank you so much for sharing. As I am from India, I would like to ask you What is that one thing you really like about India? Keep inspiring.

Thanks Sweta! Glad you liked it! There’s so many things I like about it I would be here for a lifetime trying to write them all down haha!

Here’s 21 things I really like about India! 🙂 https://www.global-gallivanting.com/reasons-i-love-india/ 🙂

I would love to go there. Keep sharing!!

Great information and explain everything properly. Thanks for sharing a nice article.

As an Indian I agree with most of the points written in this blog, specially the point “when you should travel in India”. Budget travelers should keep in mind, winters are also the peak season in most of the tourist spots in India, so they should be prepared for accommodation before their visit.

This article will be really an inspiration for travelers who want to visit India. Thank You Anna for such a beautiful article.

Thanks Souren – coming from an Indian thats a great compliment. I’m really glad you found my blog useful 🙂

wow your post is really perfect for person travelling to India like me.. Will look for your other post also.. It is really informative and there is so much stuff to look at… Thanks for sharing this information..

Nice post author. Thank you. Keep it up.

i was planning for a family trip there, and luckily found this amazing informational guide… thanks a lot as this guide will help me for my family travel trip… briefly explained travel guide…!! Amazing guide and amazing travel blog too

[…] India if monsoon time is the only time you can take a holiday. Most travellers to India try to plan their trip to avoid the monsoon and the best time to visit most of from November – March when the weather […]

[…] Read More: The Complete Step by Step Guide to Planning your First Trip to India […]

[…] to visit in India that it would take a lifetime to see them all and sometimes the hardest part of planning a trip to India is narrowing down where to go and deciding which places in India you simply can’t […]

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Yes, send me the newsletter.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More

MyFunkyTravel

Backpacking | Budget Travel | Living Abroad

India Backpacking Route

India is one of the world’s great travel destinations and such a big country, that it would be impossible to see it all in just 2 or 3 months. However our India backpacking route aims to take in the best it has to offer and give you a taste for life in various different parts of the country during that time-frame.

From the best places to visit in Rajasthan to the beaches of Goa with chaotic cities, heavenly temples, cultural delights and ancient settlements all part of the fun. By the end of your trip, for sure you will have discovered the many faces of India. For better or worse, you’ll have immersed yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of this incredible country.

Table of Contents

Backpacking india – route info, 1. kolkata, west bengal, 2. bodh gaya, bihar, 3. varanasi, uttar pradesh, 4. khajuraho, madhya pradesh, 5. agra, uttar pradesh, 6. new delhi, delhi, 7. jaipur, rajasthan, 8. pushkar, rajasthan, 9. jodhpur, rajasthan, 10. jaisalmer, rajasthan, 11. udaipur, rajasthan, 12. mumbai, maharashtra, 13. aurangabad, maharashtra, 14. hampi, karnataka, 16. gokarna, karnataka, 17. kochi, kerala, 18. kerala backwaters, kerala, 19. varkala, kerala, 20. madurai, tamil nadu, 21. mahabalipuram, tamil nadu, 22. chennai, tamil nadu, india backpacking route – how long to spend in each place.

TIME NEEDED – 2 MONTHS

Depends greatly on your travel preferences. Some travellers end up spending months in Goa or Kerala alone but based on the time you might need to see the best of each destination and have enough time to get around the country (which can be very time-consuming), then 2 months should be sufficient and 10-12 weeks would be more relaxed.

POSSIBLE BUDGET – £1000 | €1175 | US$1300

These figures are designed for genuine shoestring travellers and were based on exchange rates and prices at the time of writing, but are subject to change. Therefore don’t take these numbers too seriously and budget for more, particularly if you aren’t an experienced budget traveller or are looking for a few more comforts than you typically get in India. 

Overall though, it is certainly still true that it is very cheap to get around India by train with food and accommodation also inexpensive. Real shoestring types may be able to get by on even less than this by travelling on insanely cheap sleeper class trains and eating in more local restaurants, although your body might not always take kindly to either experience.

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR BACKPACKERS IN INDIA

The cost of travel insurance isn’t included in the budget figures above. You can get a quote in less than a minute from Heymondo who provide well reviewed international travel insurance for longer, backpacking trips. They are one of our recommended travel insurance providers for UK residents and they are a popular option with travellers from the EU with their HQ in Barcelona.

INDIA BACKPACKING JOBS & WORK EXCHANGES

One way to save money and potentially learn a few new skills whilst travelling in India is to look for work exchanges or short-term jobs. Sign up to Worldpackers to get access to 158 work exchanges in India (at the time of writing). You can get $10 off the annual membership fee by using the Worldpackers discount code “MYFUNKYTRAVELWP”.

Backpacking India – A 2 Month Itinerary

Formerly known as Calcutta, this is the nation’s cultural capital and a popular stop on most India travel routes. It has produced some of India and the world’s great poets and writers and amongst the chaos, there are some incredible buildings and remnants of life gone by, particularly of colonial periods when the British tried to turn it into the London of the East. Be sure to visit the Victoria Memorial .

With one of the busiest airports in India , it’s a good place to start your trip, especially if you’re coming from Southeast Asia as it is the closest of the big Indian cities to the region. Flights from Bangkok can be found for around $100-150 at the time of writing.

From Europe, there are regular flights with Qatar Airways and Emirates amongst other airlines, although you may still find it cheaper to fly first to Mumbai or Delhi and then take a domestic flight to the spacious modern airport in Kolkata.

Kolkata to Bodh Gaya – 470 km

This is the place where the Buddha Sakyamuni is said to have attained enlightenment and it is the first of the great spiritual destinations on this 2 month India itinerary. Inside the main Mahabodhi temple complex you can experience the lotus pond and meditation garden, while there are plenty of other temples and monastries from predominantly Buddhist countries in walking distance of Mahabodhi.

Bodh Gaya to Varanasi – 250 km

Read more: How much does it cost to travel in Nepal?

Varanasi is to Hindus, what Bodh Gaya is to Buddhists and already you should have a taste for the rich religious diversity that exists in India. Located on the banks of the River Ganges, this is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities of the world. Pilgrims come from all over India and beyond to perform devotions here and you can witness the incredible sight of them bathing in the river in front of some incredibly old temples at sunset each evening.

Hindus often come here as they are approaching death, as some believe dying in Varanasi brings salvation and you can witness funeral ceremonies and the burning of corpses from the banks of the river provided you are respectful to the dead and don’t take photos.

Be warned Varanasi is a dusty and chaotic city and is certainly not the peaceful place you might imagine it to be. Backpacking Varanasi is a real attack on the senses and a fascinating experience just don’t expect to relax and beware of irritating hawkers who will try to extort money out of you by the riverbanks. Two days is probably enough in truth with most of the interesting parts of the city crammed into a small area near the river.

Varanasi to Khajuraho – 410 km

A small town home to some wonderful Hindu and Jain temples and one of a number on this route to have achieved UNESCO World Heritage status. Check out the erotic sculptures that have been skillfully carved into the walls!

If that’s not enough to get you excited then you can just spend some time relaxing or doing yoga, which is very popular here, in the outdoors in front of a stunning backdrop thanks to the Vindhya mountain range that looms large over Khajuraho.

Khajuraho to Agra – 410 km

A popular stop on almost every backpacking itinerary for India. Agra is the home of the world famous Taj Mahal , India’s grandest temple. The city itself is fairly grim however there are two other interesting sites of interest in and around Agra besides the Taj Mahal.

Nearby Fatehpur Sikri and the Argra Fort in the city itself are both worth a visit and help take your mind back to the glory days when this was the capital of the Mughal Empire. You won’t really need more than a day or two in Agra though.

Agra to New Delhi – 220 km

The Indian capital is an enormous city with plenty of famous sights such as the Red Fort and Humayun’s tomb. You can shop in giant bazaars, explore some of the best museums in the country and just watch life go by in one of the most chaotic places you will ever visit.

If you’re not a fan of big cities, you probably won’t enjoy New Delhi though or perhaps any of the main cities on the route but it’s worth a visit just for the experience of life in India’s capital even if you only stay a few days.

New Delhi to Jaipur – 270 km

The last leg of the so-called Golden Triangle of New Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. Known as the ‘Pink City’, there is so much to see and do here with amazing temples, palaces, forts and stunning gardens dotted around town. This is also the biggest city in the state of Rajasthan which forms the core of many backpacking routes in India. Once you’re done exploring, there are excellent transport links west into the desert towns.

Jaipur to Pushkar – 150 km

This small but pretty town is made up of predominantly white buildings and temples set around a lake of great religious significance. It’s a nice place to hang around for a day or so and learn about the legends relating to it and find out why Pushkar forms one of the Hindu religion’s Holy Trinity. For those that like a drink, it’s worth noting that alcohol is forbidden within the city limits, although the coffee is said to be excellent!

Pushkar to Jodhpur – 190 km

Literally on the edge of the great Thar desert and another essential stop on any North India backpacking itinerary, Jodhpur is a very hot city where the sun always shines bright. If Jaipur is pink and Pushkar is white, then Jodhpur is most certainly blue and almost every house and building in the old town is of some shade of blue. It can make for stunning photos, especially at sunrise and sunset with the best views to be had from the menacing fort that looms large over the town. This is the biggest city in the state and there’s lots to occupy you here in a town which has a fascinating history dating back to the 15th Century.

Jodhpur to Jaisalmer – 280 km

Known as the Golden City, Jaisalmer is dominated by its enormous fort which unlike many in India, is still inhabited and operational. Perhaps the most popular thing to do and a real highlight for many backpackers in India, is to take a camel tour into the desert. Multi-day trips that go right up to the Pakistan border are available and are highly recommended although speak to other travellers before choosing a company.

However it’s worth noting that if you intend to do a few of the bigger organised trips mentioned in this route, you may struggle to stick to the budget outlined above. Also note that Jaisalmer is a bit out of the way and you will almost certainly have to back-track to Jodhpur to continue on to Udaipur and further south. Considering skipping it if you are pushed for time.

Jaisalmer to Udaipur – 500 km

The last destination in the wonderful state of Rajasthan, Udaipur is perhaps most famous for its lakes and enormous lakeside Palace that was featured in the 13th Bond film, Octopussy. Indeed many movies have been set here and with plenty of beautiful romantic backdrops, it’s certainly one for the lovers.

Consider flying on to Mumbai if you’re not on a very tight budget. There are affordable daily flights between the cities with IndiGo and Vistara .

Udaipur to Mumbai – 750 km

Formerly known as Bombay, this is India’s biggest city and its most prosperous. It serves as the country’s finance capital, complete with glitzy skyscrapers, modern shopping malls and lively nightclubs. It’s a cosmopolitan town with residents from all over the world and is a complete contrast to those further north. It is also the centre of the Bollywood film industry which fills billboards and cinemas across this country and also has a large worldwide audience.

Of course this is still India and the wealth has by no means trickled its way down to the poorest and the city still has large slums where poverty is a daily fact of life. If you’ve seen Slumdog Millionaire you will have probably seen a few of them and there are a few companies that now offer slum tours to travellers where you can visit local families and although it is a little bit voyeuristic, the money helps them put food on the table.

Mumbai also ranks as one of the best cities for India digital nomads which makes it a decent base for anyone who enjoys big city living and wants to work remotely.

Mumbai to Aurangabad – 340 km

India backpackers come here for the magnificent caves at Ellora and Ajanta . There are spectacular cave monasteries and temples cut into the rocks which are an important holy site for the Buddhists, Jains and Hindus. Aurangabad itself is an old city with over 400 years of history and is perhaps most famous for its 13 historic gates which are still proudly upstanding.

Aurangabad to Hampi – 650 km

Almost certainly the best ruins in India are found at Hampi , a small village just outside the unremarkable city of Hospet. The ruins are spectacular though and cover an enormous area and date back to the days when Hampi was the imperial capital of Vijayanagar, a 14th century empire. It’s a great place to spend a few days and the surrounding nature is also awesome with leopards and swath bears often found roaming around the nearby hills and countryside.

Hampi to Goa (Vasco da Gama) – 350 km

The smallest state in India it may be, but it is perhaps the best known outside of the country and one of the most popular with travellers, some of whom end up staying for weeks, months and even years. This former Portuguese colony has a unique blend of cultures but is generally speaking far more westernised than any of the other states, which still isn’t saying much. It is home to some of the best beaches in India and every now and then you can find the odd wild party but its heyday as a party destination was in the 1960’s and 70’s so don’t expect anything too crazy now, especially following on from a pandemic. There are much wilder full moon parties in Southeast Asia.

Vasco da Gama and Panaji are the main ‘cities’ and best places to arrive at but neither are anything more than small towns in reality with populations of less than 100,000. There is a lot of debate about where the best beaches are to be found and you are quite literally spoilt for choice. Anjuna (the hippy beach) and Arambol are among the most popular options with backpackers but it’s worth exploring a bit to try and find one that is perfect for you.

Goa (Vasco da Gama) to Gokarna – 150 km

If Goa’s not chilled out enough for you then head south to Gokarna which has great beaches and a very relaxed atmosphere with fewer foreigners than you find in Goa which can get crowded during peak times. Hindu pilgrims also visit the town to experience one of Shiva’s holy temples and what is claimed to be an original image of God!

Gokarna to Kochi* – 640 km

*Night Trains take around 15 hours.

The coastal city of Kochi is a major port and your first introduction to Kerala, which certainly has a distinct feel to it and is much different to the North. Kochi is a bustling town with a large navy presence and it has a few interesting sites although nothing remarkable so consider spending just a day or two here.

It is a good place to sample the excellent cuisine that can be found in these parts. Don’t expect anything to happen quickly here though and waiting and customer service in Kerala on the whole is often comically bad. It is also worth noting that Kerala is a fairly dry state where alcohol can be hard to find.

Kochi to Alleppey – 50 km

For many travellers, a backpacking route around India is not complete without a trip on a houseboat along the famous Kerala backwaters. They are basically a chain of lagoons, lakes and rivers that stretch an astonishing 1500 km in total although you probably won’t get that far out of Alleppey, which is the best place to start your trip and has the widest selection of boats.

If you can get a group of travellers together, you can hire out your own boat for a few days and explore the backwaters at your own leisure. It is quite pricey though (so again consider if this fits in your budget). Consider heading to the houseboat pier in Alleppey (aka Alappuzha) early (around 9:00 a.m.) to view some boats and negotiate your price although fixed price government houseboats are also available.

One bedroom Houseboats start at around 7,500 Rupees per day (approx $100), while 2 bedroom houseboats will be 9,500+ according to the latest reports. The price usually includes 3 meals and the costs for a crew of 2-3 people who cook your food and drive the boat. Use a forum like India Mike to get up-to-date info on prices and for tips on how to go about finding the best boat at the best price.

Alleppey to Varkala – 120 km

After your boat trip, head to Varkala for some more chill-out time in one of India’s most beautiful beach destinations. The main traveller area is along a huge cliff facing west over the ocean and after a not so hard day on the beach or taking advantage of the Ayurvedic massage spas, you can kick back with a Kingfisher beer and a curry while looking out onto the most perfect sunsets.

Varkala to Madurai – 280 km

Into the final state on our route now and Madurai, another of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world with life here dating back to the 4th Century before Christ. Its most popular thing to see is the Meenakshi Temple which is a spectacular Hindu temple in a city which is known as the City of Temples! It’s a great place to visit if you’re not all templed out and also has some interesting museums, mosques and hosts a 12 day carnival every year, usually in April or May.

Madurai to Mahabalipuram – 420 km

Mahabalipuram makes for a nice stop before ending your Indian backpacking trip in Chennai. It is most famous for some wonderfully artistic stone carvings, some of which have admittedly seen better days but efforts are being made to restore the town to its former glory. It also has a beach which you can share with turtles and it is a pretty popular destination with surfers.

Mahabalipuram to Chennai – 50 km

The state capital, formerly known as Madras is the main gateway to Southern India and with the 3rd largest airport, it’s a sensible place to end your trip. You may need to fly to Delhi or Mumbai for a better connection home but there are direct flights to London and Paris in Europe, as well as cities across Asia.

While in town, you can spend your last few days in India (or first if you do this trip in reverse) getting your taste of local culture with vibrant arts, music, dance and culinary scenes prominent. There are plenty of remnants to the British empire to be found in town and there is a large amount of religious diversity here with plenty of churches, mosques and temples.

Read more: How much does it cost to travel in Sri Lanka?

India Map & Itinerary Overview

The time-frames we have suggested below for each destination on the India backpacking itinerary outlined above are only a guide. You will also want to factor in the travel times either side and consider taking a day just to totally chill out and recover every now and then.

Remember that some journeys alone will take half a day or more so over the course of the trip, you will lose many days to simply getting from A to B, although that is certainly all part of the Indian backpacking experience. We have a separate post with 10 tips for travelling around India that may be of use to get a better feel for the place if you’ve never been.

There was plenty we had to leave out here and everyone’s idea of the best backpacking route for India is different but it should be fairly easy to adapt.

Some of the other highlights include heading into the far North and the regions of Kashmir and Punjab, which are a bit further removed from the typical Indian traveller trails. Another way to extend your Indian travel itinerary would be to take the famous Darjeeling Express up towards the Himalayas and sample the beautiful mountain views and perfect tea in Darjeeling. For many travellers this part of the country is their favourite as it is more peaceful and relaxed. Read our top ten things to do in the Indian Himalayas for some inspiration.

If you have several months in the region, you can even visit some neighbouring countries. Of those nearby India, Sri Lanka is a definite highlight and many backpackers head from India to Sri Lanka or vice-versa and it is easy enough to fly into Colombo from any of the main Southern cities. Sri Lanka is a lot more relaxed than India and has nicer beaches where you won’t have to deal with as much hassle or as many gawping stares. Prices are only marginally higher too although hostel style accommodation can be hard to find in places. It does have quite an extreme climate though, so be sure to read up on the best time to visit Sri Lanka  if you are interested in going.

All our Asia travel routes!

southeast asia | thailand  |  myanmar | vietnam | laos | indonesia  |  philippines | cambodia | india | taiwan | sri lanka | japan  | malaysia

This article was last updated in March 2022 but more specific details from some towns and cities are hard to verify as few travellers have risked backpacking India during the pandemic.

Comments/questions are welcome below!

One thought on “ India Backpacking Route ”

In Aurangabad, I am surprised no mention of the Bibi Ka Maqbara. The mini Taj Mahal. Worth taking a look if you are in Aurangabad to take day trips to the two cave sites.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

India Trip Planner

Top destinations in india.

Top attractions in India

Other notable attractions

Explore nearby places

• Gurugram (Gurgaon)
• Bahadurgarh
• Greater Noida
• Bulandshahr
• Ferozpur Jhirka
• Muzaffarnagar

All related maps of India

• Map of India
• Map of New Delhi
• Map of Noida
• Map of Sahibabad
• Map of Ghaziabad
• Map of Faridabad
• Map of Gurugram (Gurgaon)
• Map of Bahadurgarh
• Map of Greater Noida
• Map of Manesar
• Map of Baghpat
• Map of Sohna
• Map of Taoru
• Map of Sonipat
• Map of Jhajjar
• Map of Bhiwadi
• Map of Dharuhera
• Map of Bulandshahr
• Map of Meerut
• Map of Rohtak
• Map of Khurja
• Map of Rewari
• Map of Baksar
• Map of Tijara
• Map of Ferozpur Jhirka
• Map of Panipat
• Map of Hastinapur
• Map of Neemrana
• Map of Muzaffarnagar

India throughout the year

• India in January
• India in February
• India in March
• India in April
• India in May
• India in June
• India in July
• India in August
• India in September
• India in October
• India in November
• India in December

Q&A about India

Add places from guides with 1 click, collaborate with friends in real time, import flight and hotel reservations, expense tracking and splitting, checklists for anything, get personalized suggestions.

4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play

Best Road Trips in India That You Must Take

Best road trips in india, here is the list of 25 best road trips in india that you must take, 1. mumbai to pune expressway.

Distance: 94 Kms An easy weekend getaway from Pune/Mumbai, a road trip to Lonavala is something that almost all local residents will swear by. Dont forget to savor 'chikki' in Lonavala. The picturesque surroundings and lush green foliage are great at calming those jittery nerves. So if you are in the region and planning to take a road trip look no further. Put the medal on the pedal, and get cracking! Duration: 2 to 3 hours Road Trip Guide: The expressway is 94 Kms long and considered one of the best road trips in India. Two-wheelers are allowed on old Mumbai-Pune Highway (which is in really good shape) while cabs and buses ply on the Mumbai-Pune expressway. Sunny Da Dhaba and The Kinara Village Dhaba are good eating options on the Pune-Lonavala stretch.

2. Manali to Leh Highway

Distance: 479 Kms The beauty of the road trip in India from Manali to Leh cannot be captured in words. Remember Kareena Kapoor dancing to 'Yeh Ishq Hai' from Jab We Met? Wouldn't it be fun to cruise along that road in all its snowy glory on an open jeep or a Bullet? Ah! So Pretty! Duration: 2 days Road Trip Guide: It spans a length of 479 km with a mean altitude in between 3 to 4 km above sea level. The road is open for about 5 months a year mostly during summers and mid-October. The journey takes about 2 days with one stopover for rest and acclimatisation.

3. Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley

Distance: 116 Kms The graceful marriage of the Bay of Bengal and the Eastern Ghats in Visakhapatnam are a sight to behold. Any first time visitor to the city is taken away by the pristine beauty of this union in the city. When the same traveller takes a trip to Araku, he's completely mystified by the beauty of the road. The curly roads, the gentle elevation and the sweet serenity of the hills make it an amazing road trip in India and will etch a permanent place in your heart for an eternity. Duration: 3 hours Road Trip Guide: The road spans about 116 kms. There are interesting places like Borra caves and Tatipudi Reservoir on the way. The best time to visit the region is between October and March.

4. Shimla to Manali via Mandi

Distance: 250 Kms Clichés, when it comes to choosing a travel destination, should never be steered clear of! The Shimla-Manali road trip, with the River Beas trudging alongside, is a beautiful road trip to relax and unwind in India. Take a break from and play in the ice-cold water of the river. Nothing says Himachal vacation like playing in the water during the ride between Shimla and Manali! Duration: 5 to 6 hours Road Trip Guide: This 250 Kms stretch requires a little longer than usual due to hilly terrain. All the more reason to be one of the best road trips in India.

India Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

Best India Tour Package - Shimla, Kullu and Manali

Kashmir tour package 9 days with gondola ride, leh ladakh summer holiday package with nubra & pangong stay, bestseller andaman and nicobar tour package, sikkim tour package for 7 days - excursion to tsomgo lake, shimla manali dharamshala dalhousie tour package - day trip to khajjiar, 5. chennai to pondicherry.

Distance: 151 Kms This is one of the most beautiful roads for travelling on a cruiser motorbike. Chetan Bhagat wrote about it, and rightfully so. The Sea on one side of the road is a sight to behold as the day grows. The changing reflections of the Sun on the water as the day advances makes it most beautiful road around Chennai and probably India will leave you feeling thoroughly satisfied. Be prepared for a lot of Photography sessions while on the road! Duration: 3 hours Road Trip Guide: This stretch of road is known as the East Coast road. This route passes through Mahabalipuram (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Kalpakkam (nuclear facility), Idaikkazhinadu (Alamparai Fort aka Alambara Fort), Mudaliarkuppam (with a cool boathouse and water sports facility), Marakkanam (famous for large salt pans) etc.

6. Guwahati to Tawang

Distance: 520 Kms Two absolute essentials from Northeast and a trip just like its two ends- challenging, yet spread across an extremely beautiful terrain. A few stops in between, and you should be able to pull it off more conveniently. Duration: 2 days Road Trip Guide: The distance requires a stopover or two.

7. Puri to Konark via NH 203

Distance: 36 Kms While scenic roads in Orissa would very well put most of the Eastern states of India to shame, the Puri-Konark highway is one of those beautiful roads to do Photography that when undertaken, will force you to drain the battery on your camera. The canopy formed by the trees on either side of the road, the soft misty breeze and the obvious idyllic beauty will leave you mesmerised, now and forever! Duration: Under 1 hour. Road Trip Guide: This short stretch can be covered in about an hour and makes for a memorable road trip.

8. Gangtok to Lake Tsomgo and Nathu La Pass

Distance: 56 Kms The North-East, largely unexplored is home to some of the best destinations for road trips in India. This is one of those road trips of North-East that you should undertake at once without thinking much. The hilly terrain might make it a challenging ride, but the beauty of the road lies in the uncertainty of the terrain. The awesome sight along the roads on mountain ranges will totally make up for everything else! Take a road trip in winters to Lake Tsomgo (also known as Changu Lake) from Gangtok and know happiness like never before! Duration: 2 hours Road Trip Guide:  With Lake Tsomgo falling on the route at around 39 Kms from Gangtok, you are bound to have an unmatched road trip experience.

9. Bangalore to Bandipur Forest

Distance: 220 Kms One cannot put forward a list of awesome road trips in India without accounting for one that is taken along a forest. The Bandipur Forest route to Bangalore is one of the most beautiful trips through forests in India, that you'll ever take. One can take the same road to Ooty from Mysore passing though Bandipur National Park. Have a road trip with friends in a car with a sunroof, singing all the way. You might spot deer nonchalantly crossing the road. There's no better manner of paying your respects to this charming highway! Duration: 4 hours to 5 hours Road Trip Guide: Running along the scenic Mysore Road, there are various places for stopovers and eating along the route including McDonalds and Cafe Coffee Day.

10. Shimla to Manali via Kinnaur and Spiti

Distance: 645 Kms A more recommended route to Shimla than the Mandi one, this is the road trip in India you should take instead if you are looking forward to the road trip being the highlight of your trip. Cover Kalpa, Sangla valley and even higher bits of the valley like Nako, Chango, Ropa if you wish. Duration : 4 to 5 days (stopovers included) Road trip Guide: The stretch is longish and you can cover it in 3-4 days time (unlike shown in Google Maps). You can stopover at Rampur as the first stop. Shimla to Rampur is around 130 km and the roads are decent till this point. Rampur to Nako is around 180km and it almost takes an entire day to cover this part. The road is very bad but equally scenic. Nako to Kaza is another 110 km and it is really beautiful as it is completely in Spiti region, but the roads are still bad. The stretch from Nako to Kaza could take more than half a day and you can stopover at Kaza. The last part of the trip is from Kaza to Manali via Kunzum La and Rohtang La and this stretch is better than the previous two parts, but still quite bad. This will also take an entire day easily.

11. Chennai to Munnar

Distance: 585 Kms If you've got a weekend and Chennai's weather just doesn't cut it, Munnar is your escape. Even better, is that it can come with a though longish but refreshing road trip that might just be what you need to kick start your stay at Munnar. Duration: 10 to 12 hours (not including stopovers) Road Trip Guide: There are three different routes which you can take from Chennai to Munnar. All three routes comprise of amazing attractions to make your road trip more memorable.

12. Delhi to Agra via Mathura on Yamuna Expressway

Distance: 233 Kms The Yamuna expressway is probably the best road in the country at present and an absolute must-do for all road trip enthusiasts in Delhi. If you have enough driving stamina, you can visit the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort and come back to Delhi by the end of the night. Duration: 4 hours Road Trip Guide: You can cover this stretch on the Yamuna Expressway in less than 2 hours as the road is just amazing. However, getting to Yamuna Expressway from Delhi itself is around 70km, so add another hour or two to the total journey. Take care of the air pressure in your tires. Too much heat while driving at a fast speed have caused tires of some vehicles to burst, so remember to maintain a lower than normal air pressure.

13. Jaipur to Jaisalmer

Distance: 558 Kms Known as the 'golden city' due to its bounteous golden dunes and castles clad in golden honey sandstone, Jaisalmer is adorned with lakes, ornate Jain temples and havelis. Climb on to the camel saddle and make your way through this desert or camp under the night sky in this golden land for an unforgettable experience. Duration : 9 to 10 hours Road Trip Guide: The roads are in top-notch condition and a pleasure to drive on! Go along the RJ SH 19 which is the best option as far as routes are concerned. Make a refueling stop at Jodhpur, both for your car and your tummy. Authentic Rajasthani cuisine can be found anywhere along this route in India.

14. Shillong to Cherrapunjee

Distance: 59 Kms For a 53 km stretch, this one has a lot to offer from drizzles, waterfalls, caves, villages and a beautiful view from your window. You will find stops for food along the way. Duration: 2 hours Road Trip Guide: The trip will take you about 1-2 hours without any traffic or stops. This is a popular stretch, often covered by car only.

15. Mumbai to Goa

Distance: 556 Kms This can probably be called the Father of Indian road trips. Drive towards the sun, the sea and the sand on a gorgeous road that will inspire and gear you up for the upcoming fun. Duration: 12 hours (without stopovers) Road Trip Guide: The road from Mumbai to Goa along the NH 17 is as smooth as creamed butter and utilizes about 10 hours of travel time. Leave Mumbai early in the morning and reach Goa before the parties begin! There are several food joints along the drive to keep your heart and stomach full.

16. Delhi to Jaipur

Distance: 281 Kms Watch the Aravallis bounce off as you drive along one of the most well-maintained highways for a road trip in India into one of the most colourful cultures of our land. Duration: 5 to 6 hours Road Trip Guide: The roads were in excellent condition until the last few years, but it has deteriorated in the recent past and the course is marked by many restaurants along the way. Take a pit stop at any one of them, refuel and move!

17. Mumbai to Mount Abu

Distance: 758 Kms Is the metropolitan life sucking the life force out of you? Do you want some peace and quiet, if even for a day? Perhaps, my dear Mumbaikars, its time to seek that solace in Mount Abu. Unwind! Duration: 12 hours Road Trip Guide: Take the NH 8 from Mumbai to Mount Abu via Vadodara and Ahmedabad. It stretches on for over 750 Kms. If you're in for a longer holiday, explore the two towns for their authentic culture and Gandhian history respectively. The road is kissed all over with plenty of dhabas, so eat away!

18. Kolkata to Digha

Distance: 183 Kms Any Kolkatan will swear by this road journey, claiming that they have taken it at least 4 times in their lifetime. Why? The road is basic and pleasing, great for revving up your vehicles, lined with green patches all throughout. Digha is a favourite weekend trip option for many East Indians for its short and sweet appeal. Walk along the beach or ride a pony in the shallow waters, two days here will take your mind off things and let you relax. Duration: 4 hours Road Trip Guide: This route in India is dotted with plenty of Dhabas, so eating along the route isn't a problem. The road stretches for over 180 kilometres and travel time is almost 3 hours. Enjoy the delightful drive, clicking snaps all the way!

19. Jaipur to Ranthambore

Distance: 155 Kms Take State Highway 24 to check off 3 essentials of your list Jaipur, Ranthambore and the beautiful stretch in between. There is also a certain Bassi Wildlife sanctuary in between you can make a stop at. Duration : 3 hours Road Trip Guide: The route taken is via NH52 and should take you about 3 hours of an afternoon well spent.

20. Bangalore to Ooty via Mysore

Distance: 273 Kms The road from Bangalore to Ooty, nestled in the lap of the Nilgiri hills, is one of those journeys every road fanatic should undertake once in his lifetime. The roads are the perfect combination of green leafy and asphalt, and the drive is a great idea to soothe your jittery nerves! Duration: 6 to 7 hours Road Trip Guide: The SH 17 is in great condition and dotted with plenty of eateries. For a sumptuous dining experience, try Kamath's near Channapatna. However, if you're one who doesn't like too many surprises for your belly, you can find a McDonald's and Cafe Coffee Day along the way. Stopover at Mysore and enjoy the history of the ancient city before gearing to sit in the lap of nature.

21. Delhi to Shimla

Distance: 342 Kms Somewhere in my heart, behind vertigo and nausea, there is a train of thought that feels that nothing beats the beauty of a road trip on the hills. The great expanse of the Himalayas and the soft cottony clouds blend in the most endearing route and the chilly winds in your hair make for the most sublime of experiences.  Duration: 7 hours Road Trip Guide: Take the Grand Trunk Road from Delhi and trudge along for a long weekend away from the cacophony of the city. The journey takes about 6 hours and 40 minutes. Eating on the drive is not a problem on this route. Give your stomach a treat at Sukhdev ka Dhaba at Murthal for their sumptuous paranthas!

22. Bangalore to Goa

Distance: 556 Kms Ask students and IT professionals in this part of India about their mantra of chilling in the weekend, and they will swear by the bike road trip between Bangalore and Goa. The road is alluring, calm and serene, with several Punjabi dhabas lining the course serving delicious food. Food for your stomach and for your soul, isn't it? Duration: 10 to 11 hours Road Trip Guide: The road stretches for 556 kilometres, and is in good condition. Many would say that a car is the better option to hit the road between Bangalore and Goa, but you can trust your preferences while deciding. Rent-a-cab facilities are available from Bangalore ranging from Rs. 9 to Rs. 48, in addition to toll taxes. Pack a pair of flip flops, dribble sunscreen all over and have fun!

23. Kolkata to Puri

Distance: 498 Kms The drive between Kolkata and Puri is full of surprises. The green drive and the pretty roads will leave you awed, while the idyllic beauty of both the journey and the destination will calm your soul. Duration: 10 hours Road Trip Guide: The best way is to go to Kharagpur and march along to Balasore from there, followed by Pipli, Cuttack and Bhadrak. The distance can be covered in about 10 hours of travel time. Hit the road before dawn from Kolkata and you'll reach in time for Puri's lovely beach-side sunset and succulent crab fries from local vendors!

24. Ahmedabad to Kutch

Distance: 400 Kms Go away for a short weekend holiday to Kutch and enjoy it thoroughly. Soak up the culture and the white beauty of the Rann, enjoying yourself completely. Duration: 10 to 11 hours Road Trip Guide: The stretch takes 11 hours to cover. Some parts of the road are a little untamed, so make sure you start very early in the day from Ahmedabad.

25. Pamban Bridge to Rameshwaram

Distance: 13 Kms Ever pictured driving on a road with vast expanses of water everywhere you look? Precisely why Pamban made it to our list! Sometimes, the infinite ocean under your feet and the moist breeze in your hair is all the therapy you need. It makes for a memorable road trip in India.  Duration: 15 to 20 minutes Road Trip Guide: This stretch can be easily covered in about 20 minutes.

India is a country of many facets, attitudes and varying definitions of beauty. The best idea is always to explore as much as you can, yourself. After all, nothing can beat the thrill of being on the road, right? Got more ideas for us to share? Let us know in comments and we'd be glad to hear :)

This post was published by Pallavi Siddhanta

Share this post on social media Facebook Twitter

Related Collections

12 Highest Motorable Roads In India

Dangerous Roads in India For That Memorable Road Trip

20 Most Romantic Road Trips in India

A Step By Step Guide to Plan A Caravan Trip in India Like Shahrukh Khan In The Movie Swades

Best Places to Visit in India in Winter

Best Places to Visit in India with Friends

Best Places For Short Trips in India

Experiences

Places To Go After Graduation With Your Friends

IRCTC Announces Pay-on-Delivery For Train Tickets

Best Spots to Go Paragliding in India

Travel Tips

Drinking Water Standards In India

Best Places For Scuba Diving In India

Top Places For Hot Air Balloon Ride in India

River Rafting in India - Best Places & Basic Guide

Best Spots for Rock Climbing in India

Hot Water Springs in India

Vaccinations Required While Travelling To India

Hottest Places in India Where The Sun Gets Scorching

Art & Culture

Places To Visit This Independence Day To Experience Patriotism

27 Caves in India That are a Must Visit for a History Buff!

Beaches & Islands

14 Beautiful Islands of India for a Perfect Escape

Indian Visa Requirements - Application Process, Eligibility, Fee & More

Handicrafts of India - A Shopping Guide

Music Festivals In India That Every Music Enthusiast Must Attend!

Travelling With Children In India

Fairs & Festivals

Diwali 2023 : All You Need To Know About Diwali in India

15 Dances of India - Classical Indian Dance Forms and Their States of Origin

Wildlife & Nature

Biodiversity Hotspots in India

List of Best Art Galleries In India - For The Hidden Artist In You!

Bachelor Party in India - Best Party Destinations in India Before Getting Hitched!

Comments on this post

Browse package collections, india package collections.

India Honeymoon Packages

North East Tour Packages

South India Tour Packages

International Honeymoon Packages

International Tour Packages

Honeymoon Packages

Top Listed Packages

Spiti Valley in Summers: 1 Week in Breathtaking Kinnaur & Spiti

Kashmir 8 Days Itinerary: Enthralling Trip with Srinagar Houseboat Stay

India Tour Package with Best of Himachal

3 Days Tour Package in India: Char Dham Yatra By Helicopter

Sikkim Tour Package for 5 Days

Assam Meghalaya Arunachal Pradesh Tour Packages

Luxury India Honeymoon Tour Package - Tri-City Tour

Sikkim Tour Package for Couple - 8 Nights

5 Days Trip in India: Alleppey, Kovalam & Munnar

Gangtok Itinerary of 7 Nights 8 Days Package

Meghalaya Tour Package 7 Days with Shnongpdeng

Browse Hotel Collections

By hotel type.

Best Private Pool Villas in India

Best Cottages in India

Best Hostels in India

Capsule Hotels in India

Ski Resorts in India

Eco Friendly Resorts in India for Those Who Travel Consciously

Best Heritage Hotels in India for a Royal and Luxurious Stay

By Budget Category

Most Expensive Hotels in India for a Royal Stay

Best Luxury Hotels in India

Best Luxury Resorts in India

By Star Category

Best 5-Star Hotels in India

For Special Purposes

Resorts & Homestays to Work from Mountains in India

Best Yoga Retreats in India

Beautiful Treehouses in India Perfect for a Quick Staycation

Best Beach Resorts in India

Most Romantic Resorts in India

Top Places in India

Get the best offers on Travel Packages

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

2 Month India Itinerary To Visit North & South India!

Categories Asia , India , Itinerary

2 months in India really is the perfect amount of time to spend in India if you want to travel the country extensively and you have the time to do so. You can see a lot with 1 month in India but with one month I would recommend sticking to either North India or South India, whereas with 2 months in India on a 2 month India itinerary, you can spend time in both North and South India, see a lot but also take your time, and trust me, with 2 months in India , you’ll want to slow down and take your time a bit.

In this India itinerary, I give you a good idea of how you can plan your 2 month India itinerary visiting 21 places  which are the best places to visit in North India and the best places to visit in South India based on my travels in all of these places! Plus, whether to start your India 2 month itinerary in the North , or in the South! Challo! (said as let’s go in India!)

2 Month India itinerary

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

Best time to visit India

Before we get into this India travel blog, it’s worth thinking about the best time to visit India as the country get’s very hot and wet in the middle of the year. November to March are the best times to visit both North & South India.

South India will be warmer than North India in the winter months of December and January, Delhi and further North actually get cold in these months but are still enjoyable to visit with the right clothing.

Outside these months, you can still visit but you’ll find that the heat and humidity will be much higher, especially as you go further South.

SIM CARD FOR INDIA

I really recommend having a sim card in India as it makes travel in India so much easier! You may have heard that it’s hard to get a sim card in India but you can get a sim card in Delhi Airport, read this post to see how to buy a sim card in Delhi Airport or if you fly in elsewhere 3 ways to buy a sim card in India and you’ll be connected in just a few hours!

WHAT TO WEAR IN INDIA

If you are a woman, here’s what I recommend you pack and wear in India . Technically you can wear what you like in India in most places but to get fewer stares and feel more comfortable, read my post!

DON’T GET SCAMMED IN DELHI

Most people arrive for the first time into Delhi and get scammed within a few hours! Read my Delhi Travel Tips to help you enjoy Delhi, and the best places to stay in Delhi which is so important!

Map of India Places to Visit

Should I Start in North India or South India?

When it comes to deciding which side of India to visit first out of the North and South, I’d personally say t o visit North India first!

You may be tempted to fly into the South first as you’ve heard it’s more chilled and chilled seems like a great way to ease yourself into India, and the South is a bit more chilled, yes, but the way I see it is, why not give yourself a rest at the end of your trip?

Note – The below 2 month India itinerary is intense so feel free to skip places that may not sound appealing to you so you can have longer in each place to find somewhere different, but I wanted to give you a good idea of exactly where to go in India with 2 months!

• My Must Read India Blog Posts To Help You See the Best of India!
• 24 places in India Perfect for Your First Trip!
• Step by Step Guide to Planning a Trip to India!
• How to Get a Sim Card in Delhi Airport!
• 10 Delhi Travel Tips to See & Enjoy Delhi as a Tourist!
•   All My India City Guides and Tips

1 Month North India Itinerary!

Day 1, 2, 3, 4 – delhi.

Fly into Delhi. It is a busy city and a bit of a culture shock for most people, especially if you haven’t spent much time in Asia however it’s in the perfect location to fly into in the North and well connected so you can explore the rest of North India from Delhi.

Give yourself a day or two to recover from the flight and get used to the weather, traffic and noise without putting much pressure on yourself, remember you have the next sixty days in India!

The best way to see Delhi is on a day tour. Arrange a day tour with a guide to show you the iconic places in Delhi like Old Delhi, the Red Fort, India Gate, the Tomb of the Mughal Emperor Humayun, and the Lotus Temple.

For the rest of your time in Delhi head to Connaught Square for a walk around and make use of the Delhi Metro to see places you may have not on the day tour, the Metro is really easy to use and very cheap so make full use of it!

Day Train from Delhi to Haridwar. Auto Rickshaw to Rishikesh.

A NOTE ON THE TRAINS: I would recommend pre-booking trains in India in advance, especially in high season because not only do more tourists visit India and book trains but Indian people will travel a lot too and they do book out. 

To book trains in India you have 2 options: You can register on the official Indian Rail Website which can be a bit tricky but I’ve written a step by step guide here to help, or you can use a third party booking site like 12GO Asia which are a lot simpler to use. 

• Related Posts:
• How to get a Sim Card in Delhi Airport.
• Where to Stay in Delhi. Best Hostels, Hotels & Airbnb’s.
• 10 Delhi Travel Tips to Enjoy Delhi as a Tourist!

Look for the best flights to India here!

I use Skyscanner to book all of my flights! I’m a huge fan of Skyscanner because I love how easy it is to compare different dates and routes to help me find the best flight at the best price! 

Open Skyscanner by clicking here and search for the best flights as you read this post.

Day 5, 6, 7, 8 – Rishikesh

Rishikesh is only a 6-7 hour journey from Delhi and after the madness of Delhi, you will love arriving in the spiritual town of Rishikesh .

Rishikesh doesn’t have it’s own train station so you take the train from Delhi to Haridwar Station and get a rickshaw or taxi to Rishikesh.

I urge you to spend a good few days in Rishikesh taking in the beautiful Mother Ganga (River Ganges), watching Holy ceremonies take place, doing some yoga to stretch off that flight, visiting The Beatles Ashram, hiking to waterfalls and eating some nice healthy food.

It sounds heavenly, and it is which is why it has to be on your India backpacking route.

Overnight Train from Haridwar to Varanasi.

• My Travel Guide to Rishikesh
• How to Visit The Beatles Ashram in Rishikesh.

Day 9, 10, 11 – Varanasi

The trains in India are great and an overnight train to Varanasi – another incredible holy city but very different to Rishikesh, is the best way to get there and to save time in your India Itinerary.

2 days in Varanasi is enough, it may be overwhelming compared to the chilled out vibe of Rishikesh but be sure to head out on a sunrise boat tour, explore the ghats- especially the burning ghat, and visit the quieter ghats like Assi Ghat.

Immerse Yourself in the Vibrant Atmosphere of Varanasi – Book Now

After a few days in Varanasi, you will feel like you’re in India but don’t worry, people find Varanasi as extreme as it gets so it can only get less extreme from here, maybe!

Overnight Train from Varanasi to Agra.

• Related Post
•   My 2 Day Varanasi Itinerary – Will you love it or hate it?

Day 12, 13 – Agra

An overnight train is the best way to get from Varanasi to Agra but this train is known for its delays so don’t expect to arrive on time!

Sunrise is the best time to see the Taj Mahal so do not go to the Taj Mahal on your first day in Agra (although note that the Taj Mahal is closed on Friday so change plans accordingly). Instead, just chill in some of the cafes in Taj Ganj with the view of the Taj Mahal, visit the Taj Nature Park which is so quiet and relaxed, and find a sunset spot to see the Taj Mahal from.

The next day head to the Taj Mahal for sunrise and afterwards you can visit Agra Fort and the Baby Taj on a tour or with a rickshaw driver taking you.

Day Bus or Day Train from Agra to Jaipur

• 7 Ways to see the Taj Mahal without going inside.
• Is the Taj Mahal really worth it?

Day 14, 15, 16 – Jaipur

Jaipur is surprisingly close to Agra and makes up the famous Golden Triangle of India along with Delhi and Agra.

Jaipur is the Pink City of India and it’s a busy city with lots to do and see including Forts, Temples, Iconic Buildings, Instagram Doorways and Palace’s. My suggestion would be to take a day trip around Jaipur with a guide to see as much as you can over your 3 days in Jaipur. For a tour with a difference, check out this Jaipur Instagram spot tour!

Experience the Royal Heritage of Jaipur with these Tours

Another great way to experience Jaipur is through the food and  Nomadic India Tours offer a great Street Food Tour in Jaipur which is delicious! Another popular thing to do in Jaipur day or night is to go to the Raj Mandir Cinema which is truly impressive architecturally and the Indian Crowds is so funny to watch a film with!

Day Train from Jaipur to Ajmer and Taxi or Bus to Pushkar OR Overnight Train from Jaipur to Jaisalmer.

• Related Post:
• The Best Way to see Jaipur aka The Pink City of India!

Day 17, 18, 19, 20 – Pushkar/Jaisalmer

This stop could be Pushkar or Jaisalmer, or to be honest, you could swap Jodhpur (below) out so you can visit both! Recommending just one India itinerary is hard which is why I’ve also written a post with 4 different one month North India Itineraries  so be sure to check that out in case you want to swap and change locations (however this itinerary works really well for the first trip to India as it ticks all the main places, especially the best places in Rajasthan!).

Jaisalmer offers a chilled town with jeep or camel rides into the desert for a night, whereas Pushkar offers a chilled town with more spirituality and a hippy twist.

Both places are good places to relax in and get away from busy Indian City life which you would have had a lot of up until now. Enjoy the cafes, enjoy the quietness and if you need to do some shopping, both places are some of the best places to shop in India due to price and what’s on offer.

Day Train from Ajmer to Jodhpur or Day Train from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur.

• 12 Things To Do in Pushkar!
• My Pushkar Travel Tips!

BOOKING TRAINS IN INDIA

India is best travelled by train because its the quickest, cheapest and best way of getting to know the country. For an EASY option of booking trains in India use 12GO to search and book trains really easily. If you’ll be in India for awhile, you can use the local booking system, it’s a bit tricker but possible, here’s my post on how to book trains in India as a tourist .

BEST ACCOMMODATION IN INDIA

I always use Booking.com to book my hotels in India and Hostelworld to book my hostels . India has a great range of accommodation with brilliant hostel chains like Moustache, Zostel and Backpacker Panda as well as homestays to luxury hotels.

GUIDED TOURS IN INDIA

Many cities in India are best seen with a guide , even if it’s just a half day tour on your first day . Cities in India are chaotic and complex and what better way to taste the food and get to know the city than with a local. I recommend Get Your Guide & Viator for the best tours in India!

Day 21, 22, 23 – Jodhpur

Jodhpur is the Blue City of India however don’t expect it to be all blue.

Jodhpur is a busy city and I found it to be a bit dirty, but it has a Fort and the best way to see the Fort is to go Zip Lining ! It’s a totally different activity compared to what else is on offer in India which is why it’s so great!

I’d recommend going on a tour into the Old Blue City of Jodhpur so you can see it properly because the streets are tricky to navigate alone. Be sure to watch the sunset from the rock by the fort and enjoy the many rooftop restaurants which offer panoramic views across the city and fort as well as providing some respite from the noise and traffic below. Sunset is a great time to sit on a rooftop in Jodhpur and watch the city fall into night time.

Day Train from Jodhpur to Udaipur.

• 6 of the Best Ways to see Jodhpur!

Day 24, 25, 26 – Udaipur

Udaipur is known as the White City of India! Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur are often linked together which makes sense as they are all 3 very popular cities in Rajasthan and out of all 3, Udaipur is the quietest, the smallest, and the prettiest.

The central tourist area of Udaipur is nice and compact and it flows onto an island across the river which is the quieter side for accommodation. Udaipur’s Palace is incredible, if you only see one Palace in Northern India- make it this one.

There’s yoga on offer, art classes and cooking classes, plus plenty of rooftop restaurants with amazing views over the lake and of the sunset. This place is a real gem, perhaps the best place in Rajasthan, and a great way to end your time in Rajasthan.

Overnight Train from Udaipur to Mumbai.

• 12 Unique Things To Do in Udaipur!

Day 27, 28, 29, 30 – Mumbai

Mumbai will be a warm welcome because it’s very cosmopolitan compared to the rest of Northern India that you’ve seen and after so much time in Rajasthan you’ll probably appreciate this.

If you’ve read the book Shantaram you can follow in Lin’s footsteps around Colaba which is definitely the best place to stay in Mumbai as a backpacker. If you haven’t read the book, I’d suggest you read it before going to India or whilst you’re there!

Mumbai is full of things to do but unlike many other Indian cities, it’s not full of Forts and Palaces. There are a few good museums in Mumbai and really impressive buildings like the VT Station but the best way to see Mumbai is to explore the neighbourhoods of Colaba and Bandra, head to the beaches of Juhu and Cowpatty especially in the evening, and be sure to eat as much street food as possible as Mumbai offers some of the best street food in India!

I went out with Bombay Walks  who gave me a great half-day tour around Mumbai to places I couldn’t have visited alone so I’d really recommend checking them out.

Overnight Train Mumbai to Goa.

• My Full Guide to Colaba, the best place to stay in Mumbai!

1 Month South India Itinerary!

Day 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 – goa.

Goa is a state and pretty big but because the best places to visit in Goa are the beaches, it gets lumped together as just ‘Goa’. Goa is split into 2 in terms of tourism-  North Goa Beaches and South Goa Beaches.

It’s hard to pick the best beach in Goa and just recommend one because it depends on what you want and where you’re from. For example, Arambol seems most popular with Russians and Israeli’s, whereas Palolem is more popular with Brits. However, of course, everyone can go everywhere.

If you’ve ever been told by someone else that you must go to X beach in Goa because you’ll really like it, be sure to check that beach out. If not, I can fully recommend Palolem Beach to you!

One Week in Goa is your beach and holiday time In India. There are so many beaches in Goa that in some ways I’d recommend you see a few different beaches in one week but also keep in mind that it’s hard to get between the beaches of Goa as there are limited direct trains and public buses.

Taxis are a popular way to get between the beaches of Goa but they are a bit expensive when travelling alone and on a budget so for the sake of your money and your rest, I’d recommend staying in one place or two at the most.

Day Train from Goa Vasco da Gama to Hopset. Tuk-tuk from Hospet to Hampi.

• A Guide to Palolem Beach in Goa for Backpackers!
• Best Beaches in Goa for Foreigners!
• 2 Week Goa & Kerala Itinerary!

Day 8, 9 – Hampi

Hampi – Hampi is an adults playground and such a unique place. Hampi is a small town purely for tourism and the famous Hampi rocks create a day trip like no other. The inland terrain of Southern India here is like nowhere in the North and a nice welcome to the more chilled side of Southern India.

Overnight Train from Hospet to Bengaluru.

• Things to know when travelling to Hampi
• Things to know about Badami Caves & Temples in Karnataka

Day 10, 11 – Bangalore

Bangalore is a very modern city, even compared to Mumbai and Delhi. This stop in Bangalore is mostly going to be a stopover before going down to Kerala and to be honest, you don’t need that much time to see Bangalore. 

For me Bangalore was a nice surprise and change of pace in India, it has lots of western food chains and some big shopping malls so make the most of this whilst you can.

In terms of things to do in Bangalore, Bangalore Palace is nice but it is fairly expensive to enter, however, Bangalore has some nice parks like Cubbon Park and the Botanical Gardens so it’s easy to spend one day in Bangalore.

Stay in the area of Indiranagar to see the best area of Bangalore and make full use of Bangalore’s easy and cheap metro system. Also use Uber for your auto rickshaws.

Flight from Bangalore to Trivandrum.

I recommend flying from Bangalore down to Kerala to save doing extra journeys going back on yourself in Kerala. Internal flights in India can be really cheap, have a look at Skyscanner and book a flight in advance to get the best price!

Day 12 – Trivandrum

Only spend one day or even just half a day in Trivandrum, it’s not much of a tourist city. I recommend the company Story Trails who offer Walking Tours and Food Tours in South Indian Cities and they have a tour in Trivandrum so if you want to see the city in an easy way and learn about it, I suggest going on one of their tours!

Day Train from Trivandrum to Varkala.

Day 13, 14, 15 – Varkala

It’s back to the beach and after a few cities since Goa these beach days will probably be needed.

Varkala Beach feels like a beach in Goa in the sense that it’s chilled and very holiday like, but it feels much more wild and raw than Goa, maybe that’s the incredible Coastline and Cliff face that it sits on!

Varkala beach offers surfing, sunbathing, yoga, meditation, nice cafes, healthy food and generally a chilled out vibe.

Day Train from Varkala to Alleppey.

• A Guide to Varkala Beach in Kerala for Backpackers!

Day 16 – Alleppey

This is the best place to see the famous Backwaters of Kerala from! There are many ways to see the backwaters from kayaks, canoes and huge houseboats, there’s an option for every adventure and budget.

There isn’t much to do in Alleppey though and the beach is not a sunbathing kind of beach. With that being said the best place to stay in Alleppey is in accommodation by the beach as this is the more touristic area. One full day in Alleppey is enough, from my experience, Alleppey is a get in and gets out kind of place.

Day Train from Alleppey to Ernakulam Station (the name of Kochi’s train station).

• Cruising the Backwaters of Kerala from Alleppey!

Day 17, 18 – Kochi

Kochi is a Portuguese influenced city and this shows. Fort Kochi is where you need to stay in the city of Kochi and all of the popular places to visit like Jew Town and around Kochi Beach are in walking distance from here.

Fort Kochi has some really nice cafes, museums, a good art scene and a small city vibe so it’s an enjoyable place to visit and if you can, be sure to get out on the water for a sunset boat trip!

Local Day Bus from Ernakulam Bus Station (Kochi) to Munnar.

Day 19, 20, 21 – Munnar

The hills of Munnar in Kerala will enable you to see a totally different side of Kerala and this is where the saying that Kerala is ‘Gods own country’ really hit me.

Tea Plantations with lush green forestry and jungle is what you’ll find in Munnar as well as being able to spend a day hiking the hills. The hikes in Munnar can be tough but the views are worth it. If you ride a moped, this is a great way to see Munnar yourself and be sure to look out for Wild Elephants as people seem to see them a lot!

Munnar Town isn’t a great place to stay and instead, travellers stay in hotels and guesthouses nearby in more rural areas and the owners will arrange your day trips and pick up’s from the bus station as local buses are the only way to get to Munnar and leave.

Local Day Bus from Munnar to Kumily.

• Hiking in the Tea Plantations of Munnar and My Munnar Guesthouse.

HELP WITH YOUR INDIA ITINERARY

I’ve spent many months travelling India in the last few years visiting over 50 places around the country, here are my recommended itinerary posts for India to help you plan your trip!

2 WEEK INDIA ITINERARY, PERFECT FOR YOUR FIRST TRIP!

2 WEEK SOUTH INDIA ITINERARY – GOA & KERELA

1 MONTH NORTH INDIA ITINERARY IDEAS!

1 MONTH SOUTH INDIA ITINERARY IDEAS!

2 MONTH INDIA ITINERARY IN THE NORTH & SOUTH

MY 4 MONTH INDIA ITINERARY!

24 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN INDIA!

Day 22, 23 – Thekkady

Thekkady National Park or Periyar National Park as it’s also called is a good place to visit if you want to hike and if you want to see Wild Elephants in India! It’s also a Tiger Reserve but the chances of seeing Tigers are not common. A day hike or a half-day walk and bamboo raft trip is a good activity to do in Thekkady, and aside from seeing the Spice Gardens, there is not much else to do here so not much time is needed.

Kumily is the main tourist town to stay in and you book all the trips from here. If hiking isn’t your thing you should probably miss this out.

Local Day Bus from Thekkady to Madurai.

Day 24, 25 – Madurai

Welcome to Tamil Nadu! Madurai is not a city that is as visited by foreign tourists but it is a nice city to see because of that.

It’s only small and you only need one full day to see the city really. It’s main attraction being the Meenakshi Temple. Story Trails offer a really good City and Food Tour in Madurai which is the best way to understand the history of the city and once you know it, it’s pretty  fascinating I thought.

Day Train from Madurai to Villupuram and Bus to Pondicherry.

• What to do in One Day in Madurai!

Day 26, 27, 28 – Pondicherry

Another completely different place in India and this is because Pondicherry was once a French  colony.

The architecture in White Town which is the area closest to the beach and the main tourist area, is so impressive and such a unique thing to see in India!

There isn’t much to do in Pondicherry but the food and cafes here are really good, especially if you have been craving some Western Food! A Walking tour with Story Trails is a good idea to really understand the history of Pondicherry between India, Britain and France.

A popular day trip from Pondicherry is to Auroville which is an experimental township which I’d recommend going to.

Local Day Bus from Pondicherry to Chennai.

• 10 Things to do in Pondicherry
• Day Trip to Auroville from Pondicherry

Have you booked your flight to India yet??

I use Skyscanner to book all of my flights! I’m a huge fan of Skyscanner because I love how easy it is to compare different dates and routes to help me find the best flight at the best price!  Open Skyscanner by clicking here and search for the best flights as you read this post.

Day 29, 30 – Chennai

Last Stop on this 2 month India itinerary! Chennai has the main airport making it a good place to leave India from and your 30 days in South India have been jam-packed so you can’t fit anywhere else in any way!

Chennai’s history of being under British rule is interesting and there are a number of good temples and buildings to see as well as lots of good street food! It’s not the easiest city to get around in but Uber is good here and if you stay near the metro line you can use that too.

Note that you may get asked for proof of a flight departing India when you leave for India so make sure you do have a flight booked out before you get to India. Search for the best flights out of Chennai on Skyscanner here !

2 Month India Itinerary Map

Here is a map of this 2 month India Itinerary with all the places pinned. Click on the pin to see the City or Town name.

For your 2 months in India budget, have a read of this post to see how much it costs to travel and backpack North India:  How Much it Really Costs to Backpack Around Northern India!

• Now you’ll be set for your trip to India! Enjoy!
• See ALL My India Posts Here!
• See My India Adventure on YouTube Here

If you liked this please share it! 🙂

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

Sunday 11th of September 2022

Love your post! What time of year do you recommend doing this? Thanks

TheWanderingQuinn

Thank you, definitely in the winter months, between November and March really 😊

Wednesday 1st of April 2020

Wow what an amazing post of India itinerary I have been in India for many years but still now I didn't explore these places even I didn't plan. By reading your post really excited to visit. Thanks for such a great post.

Hannah Sage

Thursday 10th of October 2019

Thank you for such a thorough and detailed guide on visiting India. It's been on my bucket list for many years and am just at the beginning of planning a road trip that will see us spend a good amount of time in India. This will be really helpful and I'm super excited to get there!

Wednesday 16th of October 2019

Hi Hannah, you're welcome, thank you for reading and commenting! That's super exciting about your trip, there is just so much to see in India@ Let me know if you have any questions at all :)

• Southeast Asia
• North America
• Central & South America
• Australia & South Pacific
• Middle-East
• Solo Travel
• Zodiac Travels
• Wellness & Spas
• Family Travel
• The Conscious Traveller
• Accessories
• Points and Miles
• Manushi Chhillar
• Quick Style
• Rajkummar Rao
• Chefs Himanshu Saini & Neha Mishra
• Poorna Jagannathan
• Guru Randhawa
• Edition 2023-24
• Edition 2022-23
• Edition 2021-22
• T+L Experiences
• Web Stories
• Destinations

Drive Down These Stunning Routes In South India For The Perfect Getaway

South india is home to some stunning routes that are the epitome of beauty. so, make the most of your days off and plan a journey here..

By: Anushka Goel Published: Apr 01, 2022 05:00 PM IST

Road trips are among the best ways to spend quality time with loved ones. What makes them special is the journey, which takes one through varied landscapes. India is home to stunning hills, huge deserts and beautiful green covers. What’s more, entire South India is home to some routes that are the epitome of beauty. So, plan a journey down these amazing  routes ,  and be prepared to be blown away! By Anushka Goel

Stunning routes in South India for those who love road trips

Chennai to yercaud.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by shuttersoftamilnadu|© (@shuttersoftamilnadu)

The journey takes one from the coastal city of Chennai to the Shevaroy Hills in Tamil Nadu, where the stunning, quaint town is. A budget road trip, this journey takes one through landscapes and weather changes, as one leaves the humidity behind for some sweet, pleasant air. The journey also takes one through the Ghat road, which has 20 hairpin bends to appease the adventure lovers!

Distance: 347 kilometres

Kochi to Alleppey

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by m a n i r p a r i k h / / (@mellotron.scratch)

The stunning route takes about an hour or hour and a half and connects Kochi to Alleppey, or Allapuzha. Alleppey is known for its beautiful backwaters and a calm, serene vibe with lush greenery, and the roads connecting Kochi to the place are also full of green cover, making this short journey a stunning one.

Distance: 53 kilometres

Kochi-Ponmudi Hills

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by TRIVIAN WYBE (@triv.ianwybe)

One of the most stunning routes in South India, the Kochi-Ponmudi Hills  road  takes one through stunning forests and beautiful hills. Ponmudi Hills themselves are known for their deer park, waterfalls, wildlife sanctuary and more such sites, and make for a great road trip from Kochi.

Distance: 230 kilometres

Pamban Bridge

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Ajay Vlogs🇮🇳 (@mr.white_cheetah)

The short stretch that connects Mandapam on mainland India to Rameswaram is built atop the sea. The scenic drive takes one on a journey that’s covered by water on both sides, making for some breathtaking views. What’s more, the train journey on Pamban Bridge is among the most dangerous but makes up for it with its stunning visuals!

Distance: 13.5 kilometres

Bengaluru to Ooty

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by LUCKY PHOTOGRAPHY(4K) (@indian._.cultures)

This road trip from Bengaluru to the Queen of Hills, Ooty, is popular among college students and youngsters living in the city. This stunning South India route takes one through winding roads, beautiful forests, and the beautiful Mysore (Mysuru), which is a great place to stop and explore some local sites. Ooty awaits the visitors with rolling hills, lush greenery, forests, resorts, and more.

Distance: 265 kilometres

Mangalore to Goa

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Elvira & Beniz (@takeoff.to.travel)

The journey from Mangalore to Goa should be on your bucket list, especially if you love the beaches. The trip lets you soak in the beautiful waters of the Arabian Sea, where you can stop en route and spend some time before you head to the vacation destination of Goa. Take a short detour to Gokarna for its quieter beaches, explore local cuisine as you drive through before you hit the sands of Goa and spend some time there.

Distance: 345 kilometres

Kochi to Kanyakumari

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by R O O P E S H S G (@roopeshsg)

Yet another journey for the sea lovers, this stretch is a delight as you get to explore some beautiful beaches, fishing villages and backwaters. What’s more, both Kochi and Kanyakumari have sites of importance that are historical and/or political in nature. Explore the yummy coastal cuisine, visit the ports and the old Jewish settlements, and make the most of your road journey down this stunning route in South India.

Distance: 297 kilometres

Vizag to Araku Valley

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by ✨sʜᴀʜᴀʙ✨ (@_just_clicks_z)

Zip across the stunning rolling hills of the Eastern Ghats and drive down winding valleys on this road journey. You’ll pass through several small villages on this route and drive through roads that are surrounded by greenery, making it the trip of a lifetime.

Distance: 114 kilometres

Chikmagalur to Kudremukh

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Namma Chikmagaluru (@namma.chikmagaluru)

The stretch between Chikmagalur and Kudremukh is a beautiful road filled with lush greenery, well-maintained roads and misty hills. Play your favourite music, open up the windows and soak in the sweet-smelling air as you drive down this road, which is among the most stunning routes in South India.

Distance: 107 kilometres

Bengaluru to Pondicherry

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Travel❤️Books•Nikita & Shwetha (@winding.roads.and.pages)

The journey from Bengaluru to Puducherry takes one through the state of Karnataka, exploring its scenic beauty. Puducherry is home to some scenic beaches, Auroville, and gorgeous French colonial structures that will keep you engaged throughout.

Distance: 359 kilometres

Bengaluru to Coorg

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by 𝐁𝐞𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐊𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐚 (@beautyof_karnataka)

Engulf your senses in the fragrant coffee and cardamom plantations in Coorg when you reach, but before that, be sure to enjoy the stunning sites that you witness along the route – winding roads , misty skies, clean, pristine hills and more! This is sure to be a journey of a lifetime, as you transition from the advanced city life into a getaway that promises comfort in the lap of nature.

Bengaluru to Kolli Hills

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by ashil_ashiii (@ashil_ashiii)

One of the most stunning road trips in South India is the one from Bengaluru to Kolli Hills. The hills have over 70 hairpin bends, making it a dangerous yet scenic route to drive on. The entire journey is filled with greenery, scenic plantations and more and will be sure to delight you throughout as much as it enthralls you.

Distance: 288 kilometres

Related: Solo Trips For Women To Take In 2022 Based On The Chinese Zodiac

• South India
• South Indian
• south indian travel plans
• stunning routes

Anushka Goel

Related stories.

Delhi-NCR's Coolest Water Parks: Your Guide To Family Fun In The Sun

By Esha Dasgupta

Souk Stories: Explore The Best Flea Markets In India For A Shopaholic's Delight

By Pyusha Chatterjee

Himachal's Hidden Gem: Exploring The Quaint Town Of Naggar

Jibhi And Bir-Billing: Explore The Hidden Havens Of The Himalayas

By Esha Dasgupta and Japleen Kaur

Amar Singh Chamkila ">Retrace The Footsteps Of A Legend: Shooting Locations Of Amar Singh Chamkila

By Priyaja Bakshi

Sidestep The Heat At These Charming Hill Stations In Rajasthan

By Yashita Vashishth

Indulge In Jam Making, Wine Tasting And More At Meghalaya's Strawberry Festival 2024

NDMC To Unveil New Heritage Park Near Red Fort In Delhi

Embark On A Storybook Journey Aboard India’s Toy Trains

Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest on travel, stay & dining.

You’re all set

Thank you for your subscription.

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• 18 Beautiful Train Journeys In India In 2024 That Will Compel You For A Ride!

Planning a vacation rarely encompasses a train expedition nowadays. But if it does, it certainly takes us back to the childhood days when holidaying meant embarking on beautiful train journeys in India . It also meant admiring the changing landscapes as the train passed through towns and villages; playing cards or memory game; chitchatting over warm tea in earthen cups (locally called Kulhad); yummy munchies and lot more! This time round, we take you on some of the most beautiful train routes in India that cover absolutely enthralling and diverse landscapes – steep mountain slopes, narrow valleys, and wide seas.

18 Most Beautiful Train Journeys In India

Go through the list of these most beautiful train rides in India and make sure you head to one of them, the one that you find to be truly out of this world. You will realize the journey is nothing short of a dream. There’s mountains, waterfalls, rivers, plains, deserts and every possible landscape that you can imagine of. They are spread across the northern frontier to the southern frontier. Have a look!

• Jammu – Baramulla
• Pathankot – Jogindernagar
• Kalka – Shimla
• Jaisalmer – Jodhpur
• Mumbai – Goa
• Hubli – Madgaon
• Matheran – Neral
• Karjat – Lonavala
• Ratnagiri – Mangalore
• Mandapam – Rameshwaram
• Mettupalayam – Ooty
• Vishakhapatnam – Araku Valley
• Bangalore – Kanyakumari
• Hassan – Mangalore
• Bhubaneshwar – Brahmapur
• New Jalpaiguri – Darjeeling
• Alipurduar – Jalpaiguri
• Guwahati – Silchar

1. Jammu – Baramulla

Kashmir Railway Gifts you Travel Charisma

Image Source

The railway track connecting Jammu, Udhampur, Srinagar and Baramulla is not only picturesque and enthralling but also one the most challenging railway projects. It is located in the high earthquake intensity zone with undulating and rugged terrain, extreme cold temperature, and is the most beautiful railway route in India .

Train Journey Time : 4 hours

Must Read: 30 Unbelievably Beautiful Places To Visit In Kashmir One Cannot Miss

Looking To Book A Holiday Package?

Spellbinding Cochin Family Tour 2D/1N Package @ Rs 2,750

Plan your trip today!

Himachal Family Tour Package 4D/3N @ Rs 8,750

Get quotes from multiple travel experts.

Exciting Andaman Family Trip 5D/4N @ Rs 10,250

Compare & customize quotes before booking.

Gangtok & Darjeeling Tour Package 5D/4N @ Rs 13,000

Have Questions? Talk to our travel experts today.

Wonderful Goa Family Package 3D/2N @ Rs 6,500

Best prices guaranteed.

Riveting Rajasthan Vacation 3D/2N Package @ Rs 6,499

EMI option available.

Enchanting Uttarakhand Tour 4D/3N Package @ Rs 7,199

Explore best destinations with our experts.

Delightful South Weekend Tour 3D/2N Package @ Rs 4,999

Thrilling weekend full of fun.

Marvelous Gujarat Tour 3D/2N Package @ Rs 4,999

Talk to our experts today.

See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM

2. Pathankot – Jogindernagar

Mystics of Kangra Valley

Image Source If you want to enjoy the thrills of Kangra Valley, the river bridges, deep gorges and exclusive flora, enjoy the pleasant but quite slow ride of 164 km from Pathankot to Jogindernagar in Himachal Pradesh. It is not only located at a challenging height, but is also one of the most scenic train routes in India .

Train Journey Time : 8 hours

Suggested Read : 43 Famous Historical Places In India To Visit

3. Kalka – Shimla

A Spellbinding Journey to the Summer Capital

If you want to cherish picturesque valleys, steep pathways and foggy meadows, travel to Shimla in the narrow gauge train. This little toy train, now considered as World Heritage Site by UNESCO, starts from Kalka and travels 96 km upslope through 102 tunnels: (the longest tunnel located at Barog), 82 bridges, deep valleys, steep curves, rolling bends, forests of deodar and rhododendron, pine and oak.

Few trains like Siwalik, Kalka-Shimla, Himalayan Queen, Rail Motor and Siwalik Queen ply on this route. The journey is truly enchanting but at a slow pace as the train ascends the slope rhythmically through stations of Dharampur, Solan, Kandaghat, Tara Devi, Barog, Salogra, Totu, and Summerhill to reach the summer capital. It is one of the best in north Indian and most beautiful train journeys in India .

Train Journey Time : 5 hours

Suggested Read: 53 Best Places To Visit In Shimla On Your Soothing Weekend Getaway!

4. Jaisalmer – Jodhpur

Xerophytic Route

The Rajasthan trip which is otherwise full of colors, can have an extra bright shade if you travel to Jaisalmer from Jodhpur in Delhi Jaisalmer Express. The travel time in the train called the ‘Desert Queen’ takes close to 6 hours to reach the destination.

The journey is not at all monotonous. In fact you see diversified topography like typical desert landscape with xerophytic vegetation, yellow soil, dunes, grazing camels and scattered settlements of the desert inhabitants. The passengers will surely get a feel of the desert safari before reaching the land of the Golden Fort. This is amongst the most beautiful train journeys in India .

Suggested Read : Longest Rivers In India: Know About The Important Water Bodies Of The Country

5. Mumbai – Goa

Journey through the Enigmatic Ghats

The journey from Mumbai to Goa intersecting through the gorges of Sahyadari and fringes of Arabian Sea is equally or perhaps the most scenic train rides in India . Mandovi Express, as a part of the Konkan Railway network, travels between Mumbai and Goa.

The route is full of scenic landscapes, ranging from tunnels, bridges, coastal peripheries, steps of Western Ghats (other name for Sahyadari), innumerable small rivers, seasonal streams and lush green meadows. Do not forget to take out your handicam or camera and capture the highlights of one of the stunning and beautiful train journeys in India .

Train Journey Time : 12 hours

Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!

Nikhil Recites A Tale Of 11 Friends Who Went From Bengaluru To Ladakh

Bengaluru - Delhi - Leh - Ladakh - Leh - Delhi - Amristsar - Chandigarh - Bengaluru

Pranav Took A Solo Trip To Andaman & It Was Truly Wonderful

A backpacker's guide to the predominant Honeymoon destination!

Shivani Talks Of Her Trip To Mcleodganj & Dalhousie With Her Husband And Friends

Sunset views. Monasteries. Bhagsunath falls. And amazing street food.

Kanika Proves That Traveling With An Infant To Kerala Is Totally Safe & Wonderful

Beaches, Backwaters, Spas, & More. Take me there now, please!

Here's Why Aakanksha's Trip To Manali Changed Her Idea About Group Tours

Ideal long weekend getaway from Delhi! Isn't it?

Isha Elaborates On How She Went Solo To Kasol & Returned With Lots Of Friends

And tales of her exciting Kheerganga & Chalal trek...

Prasham's Account Of A Goa Tour Proves That Goa Is More Than A Party Destination

Adventure, sightseeing, laid-back beach tours, and it doesn't stop there!

Bhavya Gives An Extensive Account Of His Jaisalmer Trip With Friends

Desert safari, haunted Kuldhara village, & Gadisar Lake. There's more...

Ashish Tells Why Kashmir Turned Out To Be A Winter Wonderland For His Family

For Gondolas, Shikaras, and plenty of snow!

Arunav Can't Stop Praising His Adventurous Trip To Sikkim & Darjeeling With Friends

For adventure in Air, on Land, and in Water!

Avneet Describes Her Trip To Spiti With A Group Of Strangers That Became Friends

Sightseeing. Monasteries. Trekking. And beauty all along

6. Hubli – Madgaon

Vasco da Gama Route

Image Source While travelling from Hubli to Madgaon, experience one of the most thrilling and enchanting train journeys in India. The train passes through the gigantic and most magnificent Dudhsagar waterfalls gushing out from a 300 metres in full vigor.

Once the train reaches the waterfall, you will be amazed at the cascading beauty and force on a thrilling and best train journeys in India. If you decide to enjoy it closely, quickly get down at Londa junction, which is the nearest station to Dudhsagar falls.

Train Journey Time : 10 hours

Suggested Read : Scuba Diving In India: Explore The Breathtaking Underwater Universe At The 14 Best Spots

7. Matheran – Neral

Heritage of Maharashtra

The narrow gauge railway running between Matheran and Neral passes is one of the best train routes in India. It passes through the rugged terrains of the Ghats and gained immense tourist attraction. This only Heritage railway of Maharashtra running a distance of 20 km is surely included in the list of India’s best train journeys. This is one of the best train routes in India .

Train Journey Time : 2 hours

Suggested Read: Top 38 Weekend Getaways From Mumbai For The Love Of Traveling

8. Karjat – Lonavala

Monsoon Trip

Another line that passes through the Western Ghats is the journey from Karjat to Lonavala through Thakurwadi, Monkey Hills and Khandala. It is the very scenic and one of the best train routes in India known for its mystic nature. Monsoon season is recommended because of the lush green views and beautiful rain scenery that it offers. The ride is pure scenery and being hill stations connected by train, it is the most adventurous way to reach the destinations.

Train Journey Time : 1 hour

Suggested Read: 21 Hill Stations Near Mumbai To Soothe Your Senses On A Trip

9. Ratnagiri – Mangalore

Charming Konkan Railway

Image Source One of the most mesmerizing railway tracks lies in the Konkan Railway network, in the Ratnagiri to Mangalore sector. The is one of the most scenic train journeys in India which is truly absorbing and wherein the dense forests, mighty Western Ghats, deep tunnels, river bridges, sharp bends and innumerable seasonal streams will leave the travelers spellbound and hypnotized.

Suggested Read: 20 Road Trips During Monsoon In India That Every Biker Ought To Take

10. Mandapam – Rameshwaram

Journey Intersecting the Ocean

Image Source Besides thrill and adventure, train travel from Mandapam in Tamil Nadu to Rameshwaram on Pamban Island oozes calm and serenity. It is certainly one of the top ten best Indian train journeys. One of the most beautiful train routes in India, it passes over the second longest bridge of India, the Palk Strait, which is the only route that connects mainland India to Pamban Island.

Suggested Read : 15 Offbeat Places In South India That Will Make You Go ‘WOW’ With Natural Beauty!

11. Mettupalayam – Ooty

Voyage in Landscapes of Nilgiris

Image Source Running since 1908, ‘Nilgiri Passenger’ still runs on steam engine, going from Mettupalayam to Ooty. As the train ascends the Nilgiri Mountain, thick pine, oak and eucalyptus forests, bends, curves and tunnels, it moves along Asia’s steepest track with maximum gradient of 8.33 percent. Nilgiri Passenger travels 26 km up the slope in almost 5 hours via stations like Kallar, Adderly, Hillgrove, Kateri, Runneymede, Kateri, Coonoor and Lovedale.

Suggested Read: 25 Mesmerizing Hill Stations In South India That Are A Must Visit

12. Vishakhapatnam – Araku Valley

The Tunnel Topography

Image Source The journey from Vishakhapatnam to Araku Valley through innumerable tunnels and sharp loops is quite an interesting one. Started as a mode to transport iron ore and other minerals to Vishakhpatnam from Chhattisgarh, this railway route in India is a treat for the eyes as well as the soul.

Train Journey Time : 3 hours

Suggested Read : 14 Most Unusual Beaches In India That Will Make You Fall In Love At First Sight

13. Bangalore – Kanyakumari

The Malgudi Voyage

Image Source Another scenic journey through the typical landscape of South India – the picturesque villages, plantations, meadows and water bodies is from Bangalore to Kanyakumari. The Island Express travels 944 km in about 19.5 hours and surely take you the land of ‘Malgudi Days’, undoubtedly paving its way to the list of best train journeys in India.

Train Journey Time : 15 hours

Suggested Read: 35 Road Trips From Bangalore You Must Plan With Your Friends

14. Hassan – Mangalore

Magical Malnad

Witness a pleasant train journey through scenic waterfalls, lofty mountains, palm plantations and rice meadows from Hassan to Mangalore. Railway voyage along this stretch of the Malnad region is truly refreshing and perfect delight for travelers.

Train Journey Time : 1 and half hours

Suggested Read : Discover 6 Incredible Rain Forests In India For A Memorable Wildlife Adventure

15. Bhubaneshwar – Brahmapur

The Serene Journey

Image Source Another of most beautiful train journeys in India is from Bhubaneshwar to Brahmapur, with lush green Malyadri on one side and serene Chilika Lake on the other. You may be lucky enough to see lots of migratory birds, so don’t forget your camera. You can capture the glimpse of the best lakes in Odisha while traveling through this train. 

Suggested Read : Mountain Biking In India: 10 Most Thrilling Adventure That Is A Must Try

16. New Jalpaiguri – Darjeeling

The Heritage Voyage to the Summer Resort of British Raj

Image Source How good does it feel to ride through hill stations connected by train? A pleasant upslope journey from the foothill region through loops, turns and bends can be experienced from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling. The 78 km long quaint journey takes almost 8 hours and passes through Siliguri Town, Siliguri Junction, Sukna, Rangtong, Tindharia, Mahanadi, Kurseong, Tung, Sonada, Ghum, Rongbul, Jorebunglow and Batasia Loop.

Though the journey, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is sluggish but certainly leisurely. The surrounding hill-valley topography, especially from Ghum (the highest narrow gauge railway station in India) and Batasia Loop, adds extra flavors of delight to your trip.

Train Journey Time : 7 hours

Suggested Read : Visit 14 Luxury Holiday Destinations In India For A Lavish Stay

17. Alipurduar – Jalpaiguri

Jungle Safari on the Wheels

Want to pass through dense forest and see elephants and rhinos while passing by? Plan a train journey in the foothills region of North Bengal. Travelling to Alipurduar, Jayanti, Moorti, Samsing, Baux and Jalpaiguri will take you through the reserve forests of Gorumara, Jaldapara, Mahananda and Buxa while crossing seasonal streamlets.

Suggested Read : 20 Unbelievable Experiences In India That You Must Add On Your Bucket List To Enjoy An Offbeat Escape

18. Guwahati – Silchar

Awes of Assam

Image Source This journey meanders through river Jatinga, lush green Assam Valley, tea plantations and undulating Haflong valley. The route from Guwahati to Silchar via Lumding and Barak Valley makes it one of the most beautiful train journeys in India. The train makes you witness the beauty of hill stations in Assam .

Train Journey Time : 9 hours

Further Read: 23 Types of People You Meet While Travelling in an Indian Train

Aren’t all these beautiful train journeys in India absolutely stunning? If you have more to the list, share us with them in the comments below, and let the word spread. But for now, plan your holiday in India  with TravelTriangle to experience these wonderful train rides. We have no doubt that these rides will sweep you off your feet and make your heart skip a beat.

Disclaimer : TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beautiful Train Journeys In India

Is it safe to travel in Indian trains during COVID times?

You need to follow all the mandatory guidelines mentioned by the authorities to ensure your safety. Wear mask while traveling in train or being at the railway station, avoid crowds and maintain social distancing. Keep sanitizing your hands regularly. You can also carry a disinfectant spray to disinfect your seat and surroundings.

Which is the best train in India?

This is no definite answer to this because of the way you define best. It could be in terms of service or the route it runs on. If you have to pick one, Samjhauta Express would be the best train of India as it connects India and Pakistan displaying the amazing coordination between the two countries with communal tensions. It connects Amritsar with Lahore.

Which is the long-distance train in India?

Vivek Express is the longest distance train in India that connects Dibrugarh in Assam with Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu. The train runs weekly and takes about 79 hours to complete a journey of 4234 km. It has 57 intermediate stoppages. Whoa! Imagine the journey that would be on this train.

Which are the dangerous train routes in India?

Chennai - Rameswaram route is considered to be the most dangerous train route in India. It is ironic because it is also a pilgrimage route. So, your faith in God is put to test when you travel on this train. The 2.3 km long stretch of this train runs over the ocean fighting strong winds and tides that make this journey dangerous and testing.

Which are the best train journeys from Bangalore?

The train journey from Bangalore to Kanyakumari is the most scenic one. Ditch the car ride and take the train instead if you want to enjoy the scenery

Which is the longest rail bridge in India?

The longest rail bridge in India is the Vembanad Rail Bridge that connects Vallarpadam and Edappally in Kerala’s Kochi. The bridge is 4.62 km long and dedicated only to good trains.

Is the Indian railways run by private or public?

The Indian railways is a public railway organization run by the Ministry of Railways, Government of India.

Which is the fastest train in India?

The Vande Bharat Express or Train 18 is currently the fastest train in India with a maximum operational speed of 180 km/h. The average speed of the train is around 102 km/h.

Which railway station has the most number of platforms in India?

Howrah Junction in Kolkata, West Bengal is one of the largest junctions in the country and a perfect bridge between North, South, East and West India. It has 23 platforms that spread in a huge area.

People Also Read:

Beautiful Train Journeys In The World Beautiful Train Journeys In Canada Luxurious Train Journeys In India

Recent Posts

17 Meilleures destinations de lune de miel en Italie en 2024 pour les couples fous amoureux

10 Voyages les plus populaires en Europe pour planifier l’évasion ultime de 2024

आनंदपूर्वक घूमने के लिए 52 भारत में सर्वश्रेष्ठ छुट्टियाँ बिताने की जगहें

2024 में एक ताज़गी भरी 49 छुट्टियों के लिए उत्तर भारत में घूमने की जगहें

भारत से घूमने के लिए सबसे सस्ते देश जहां आपको 50K से भी कम खर्च आएगा!

9 Best Places To Visit Near Humayun Tomb For A Wholesome Experience

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• Travel Punch »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Kerala Tour Packages
• Goa Tour Packages
• Andaman Tour Packages
• Sikkim Tour Packages
• Himachal Tour Packages
• Uttarakhand Tour Packages
• Rajasthan Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Kerala Tourism
• Goa Tourism
• Sikkim Tourism
• Andaman Tourism
• Himachal Tourism
• Uttarakhand Tourism
• Rajasthan Tourism
• Hotels in Kerala
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Sikkim
• Hotels in Andaman
• Hotels in Himachal
• Hotels in Uttarakhand
• Hotels in Rajasthan

• WEB STORIES New
• ENTERTAINMENT
• CAREER & CAMPUS
• INFOGRAPHICS
• ISL 2023-24

• Manorama Online
• Manorama News TV
• ManoramaMAX
• Radio Mango
• Subscription

India to get air taxi services from 2026 onwards

New Delhi: Interglobe Enterprises owned by the airline giant IndiGo, in association with US-based Archer Aviation, will introduce an electric air taxi service in India by 2026. It will allow passengers from Connaught Place in Delhi to reach Gurgaon in Haryana in under seven minutes. The passengers will be able to fly on this route by spending just Rs 2000 - 3000. Usually, it would take at least one hour to cover this 27-kilometre distance by road in a car. Besides Delhi, air taxi services would be launched in Mumbai and Bengaluru in the initial phase. Archer Aviation would provide two hundred electric aeroplanes that have vertical take-off and landing capabilities. Besides the pilot, up to four passengers could travel at the same time. Interestingly, it would take only 30 – 40 minutes to charge the planes.

No fixed schedules Air taxis are on-demand transportation services using small helicopters or aircraft and they offer convenient, fast services from point-to-point short distances. Either individuals or small groups can use their services. The best part about them is that you can avoid traffic congestion through a direct route, reduce travel time as compared to road travel and take the services in flexible timings for customized travel. If the service is received well, more companies may launch premium services as well, with comfortable seating and personalised facilities.

Cancelled flights due to UAE floods? Here's how to rebook, replace tickets

Airlines change routes after Israeli attack on Iran: Details

What went wrong at Thrissur Pooram this year? Spectators recount

Navakerala bus to operate in Kozhikode-Bengaluru route

Mangaluru – Kottayam special train flagged off today, 43% more train trips this summer

KSEB fails in electrifying Punalur – Shenkottai electric line; Kerala might lose Vande Bharat

Thrissur Pooram's iconic fireworks reduced to smoke after restrictions delay festivities till morning

Air India cancels Dubai flights

UAE floods: Indian embassy advises citizens to reschedule non-essential travel

Reschedule non-essential travel: Indian embassy advises travellers due to floods

Airlines suspend flights due to Middle East tensions

• Medium Text

CANCELLED/REROUTED

The Reuters Daily Briefing newsletter provides all the news you need to start your day. Sign up here.

Compiled by Alessandro Parodi, Joao Manuel Mauricio and Tristan Veyet in Gdansk and Nandan Mandayam in Bengaluru; additional reporting by Greta Rosen Fondahn and Kate Holton; Edited by Milla Nissi, Shounak Dasgupta, David Evans, Maju Samuel and Shailesh Kuber

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. New Tab , opens new tab

World Chevron

West Bank village counts losses after settler attack, and fears more

The Israeli settlers who rampaged through the West Bank village of al-Mughayyer on April 12 came in greater numbers and carried more weapons than during any of the previous raids on the Palestinian community, residents said.

At least two people are dead and six others injured in a shooting at a block party in Memphis, Tennessee, on Saturday, according to police.

South Korea on Sunday protested Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's offering to Tokyo's Yasukuni Shrine with "deep disappointment" and urged Japanese leaders to show repentance for the country's wartime past.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience and security.

Sunday, 21 April 2024

Agenda - The Sunday magazine

• Cover Story

India becoming a convenient hub for travel between SE Asia & Middle East

India is slowly becoming a convenient hub for travel between Southeast Asia and the Middle East as airlines prefer to transfer people by connecting through Indian cities, a top industry official said.

There is huge growth in India and many domestic routes are used by airlines for connectivity, V Sumantran, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of InterGlobe Aviation Ltd (IndiGo Airlines) said here on Saturday.

Delivering his address at the 65th Institute Day of the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, he said that IndiGo Airlines started off as a low-cost airline in 2006 and has made the largest single order in the aviation industry by ordering 500 aircrafts in France.

“India needed an airline that will provide affordable travel for many of us and the net result we can see. Even now we see India really moving forward with a lot more speed on infrastructure development. We have about 140 operating airports now and that would become 220 by 2030. We are seeing a huge increase in regional travel,” Sumantran, an IIT-Madras alumni, said.

IndiGo is a very young airline by global airline standards. But the entire platform of IndiGo has been affordable fares, courteous service, on-time performance, and a “very well networked” route system which India needed, he said.

Trending News

Assam Board Result 2024: Boys outshine girls in class 10 board exams

DC VS SRH: Rishabh Pant set for emotional homecoming in stern SRH test for DC

Elon Musk says India visit delayed due to Tesla obligations, looking forward to coming later this yr

Feels good when you get most decisions right: KL Rahul

The Latest | Iran fires air defence batteries and diverts flights after explosions

US and UK issue new sanctions on Iran in response to Tehran's weekend attack on Israel

IPL: Down with hip strain, RCB's Maxwell unlikely to play against KKR on Sunday

Adverse weather hits Dubai flights; Air India IndiGo cancel flights

Real Madrid beats Man City 4-3 on penalties to advance to the CL semifinals

'UP: Ram Lalla honoured with 'Surya Tilak' on Ram Navmi'; PM says 'emotional moment'

Dortmund digs deep to beat Atlético 4-2 and reach Champions League semifinals

PBKS Vs MI: Faltering Punjab Kings, Mumbai Indians desperate to resurrect IPL campaign

State editions, aap slams withholding of insulin from kejriwal in jail, aap leaders playing sympathy card on kejriwal diet, claims bjp, congress announces support for aap candidates in mayoral polls, sukesh makes fresh claims on excise policy scam, police issue traffic advisory for lord mahavir nirvana mahotsav, bjp to hold mega influencers meet to woo voters, sunday edition, india battles volatile and unpredictable weather, an italian holiday, joyful goan nostalgia in a boutique setting, astroturf | mother symbolises convergence all nature driven energies, celebrate burma’s thingyan festival of harvest, pf chang's now in gurugram, e-mail this link to a friend..

• Tata Steel share price
• 162.10 1.31%
• Tata Motors share price
• 963.20 -0.84%
• NTPC share price
• 350.90 -0.14%
• ITC share price
• 424.80 1.40%
• Power Grid Corporation Of India share price
• 281.70 0.54%

PM Modi in Bengaluru today: Avoid THESE routes for hassle-free travel

Prime minister narendra modi's visit to bengaluru prompts traffic advisory with road closures and diversions to ensure smooth traffic flow. security beefed up for vvip movement in the city..

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to arrive in Bengaluru on Saturday afternoon, the city police department has issued a traffic advisory to alleviate congestion and facilitate uninterrupted traffic flow for commuters.

Meanwhile, security measures have been beefed up during the VVIP movement.

Also Read: Lok Sabha Election 2024 LIVE Updates

In an official release, DCP Traffic North, Bengaluru, said, “In view of VVIP visiting Bengaluru City on 20.04.2024, from 01:00 PM to 07:00 PM parking of all types of vehicles in the following roads, is prohibited. During the said period commuters are advised to avoid following roads and use alternative routes."

Here are the 11 roads to steer clear of today:

Palace Road

M V Jayaram road

Vasanthanagar Road

Jayamahal Road

C V Raman Road

Bellary Road

Ramanamaharshi Road

Nandidurga Road

Tharalabalu Road

Mount Carmel College Road

From Mekhri Circle towards Yeshwanthpura

It further read, “Traffic movement heavy goods vehicles are strictly prohibited from 12:00 noon to 9:00 PM to enter city."

Here are the traffic diversion points designated for heavy goods vehicles:

CMTI Junction

Mysuru Bank Junction

Hebbal Junction

New BEL Junction

BHEL underpass

Basaveshwara Circle

Old Udaya TV Junction

Haj Camp, Nandidurga Road

Near Yeshwanthpura Govardhan

PM Modi will visit Bengaluru and neighbouring Chikkaballapura district for the Lok Sabha poll campaign on Saturday.

According to the state BJP, a massive rally is scheduled at 4 PM in Bengaluru's Palace Grounds, covering the segments of Bangalore North, Bangalore South, Bangalore Central, and Bangalore Rural. These areas have been strongholds for the BJP, except Bangalore Rural, represented by Congress' D K Suresh, brother of Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar.

Also Read: Bengaluru news: Section 144 to be imposed during polling for Lok Sabha elections. Details here

The BJP's sitting MPs Tejasvi Surya and P C Mohan are candidates from Bangalore South and Central respectively, while Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje is contesting from Bangalore North.

In Bangalore Rural, Dr. C N Manjunath, the son-in-law of Deve Gowda and a prominent cardiologist, is contesting on a BJP ticket as part of an arrangement with alliance partner JD(S).

Karnataka is conducting elections in two phases, with 14 Lok Sabha segments in the southern part of the state going to polls on April 26 , and voting for the northern districts scheduled for May 7 in the second phase.

(With inputs from agencies)

Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world 🌏 Click here to know more.

Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed – it's all here, just a click away! Login Now!

Wait for it…

Log in to our website to save your bookmarks. It'll just take a moment.

You are just one step away from creating your watchlist!

Oops! Looks like you have exceeded the limit to bookmark the image. Remove some to bookmark this image.

Your session has expired, please login again.

Congratulations!

You are now subscribed to our newsletters. In case you can’t find any email from our side, please check the spam folder.

Subscribe to continue

This is a subscriber only feature Subscribe Now to get daily updates on WhatsApp

Love Exploring

16 STUNNING Train Routes To Spice Up Your 2024 Travels

Posted: April 18, 2024 | Last updated: April 19, 2024

On track for a great adventure

Long-distance rail travel is intoxicatingly romantic and much more sustainable than flying. But when our lives are so busy, and our time and money so precious, it can sometimes be hard to justify taking the slower, more scenic route. However, these exciting new train journeys for 2024 and beyond might just convince you to give it a try.

From swanky sleepers to dynamic first-of-their-kind engineering feats, click through for the best new and upcoming rail routes to get excited about...

Whoosh from Jakarta to Bandung, Indonesia

Inaugurated in late-2023, Whoosh is Indonesia’s (and Southeast Asia’s) first high-speed train. Finished four years later than originally planned, the new multi-billion-dollar line links the capital of Jakarta to the west Javan city of Bandung in less than an hour. With speeds of around 217 miles per hour (349km/h), Whoosh – a convenient acronym for 'time saving, optimal operation, reliable system' in Indonesian – is powered by electricity and therefore has no direct carbon emissions. Before this, the only way to reach Bandung from Jakarta was a three-hour car journey.

The 86-mile (138km) route is mostly raised and offers seats in three different classes – VIP, first and second. The state-of-the-art trains have been modified to suit the country’s tropical climate, and are also equipped with safety features that can respond to disasters like earthquakes and floods. There are future plans to extend the line further east to Surabaya (around 10 hours by car from Jakarta), as well as introducing a stop at Yogyakarta, where passengers would alight for the world’s largest Buddhist temple, Borobudur.

Nightjet from Paris to Berlin

Before December 2023, there had been no direct trains between Paris and Berlin since the 1990s. But now passengers can travel between the two enticing capitals on OBB’s new signature sleeper service, the Nightjet, which currently runs three times a week and calls at Strasbourg and Frankfurt along the way. Clad in striking blue and red, Nightjet’s fleet will be replenished over the course of the next year, bringing the total number of custom-built new trains to 33, offering solo sleeping pods, en-suite compartments, better accessibility and extra storage.

The Paris-Berlin Nightjet will increase its offering later in 2024, when nightly departures begin. But soon this won’t be your only new rail option linking the two cities. SNCF (France’s state railway company) is liaising with Deutsche Bahn over a direct, high-speed TGV connection sometime this year, which will run during day and night, with a total journey time of around seven hours.

New Trenitalia routes, Italy and beyond

The year's rail renaissance continues with Italian national rail operator Trenitalia opening up a plethora of new opportunities. First, its Frecciarossa (Red Arrow) bullet trains now whizz passengers from Rome to the ruined city of Pompeii (pictured), which was buried under volcanic ash after Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. The service runs every Sunday and on selected public holidays, with the journey from A to B taking less than two hours.

Elsewhere, Trenitalia is in cahoots with Slovenia’s transport services to start a high-speed rail route from Milan (pictured) to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s gorgeously green capital. The two-and-a-half-hour trip between the two cities could open to passengers as soon as April 2024. Later this year, the zippy Frecciarossa trains will also tread through Paris, Madrid and Barcelona, as Trenitalia looks to increase its presence in France and Spain. This will be a boon to travellers crossing the Pyrenees, which has historically been low on rail services.

Tren Maya, Mexico

After partially opening in December 2023, Yucatan’s Tren Maya is set to become fully operational any day now. The rail megaproject, which entered construction in 2020, connects popular Caribbean coast resorts like Tulum and Cancun to culture-crammed cities and ancient archaeological sites like Merida and Palenque (pictured), in the hope of connecting tourists with areas they might not otherwise see. The route in its entirety serves 34 stations in five Mexican states and is divided into seven sections, offering both short and long-distance journeys.

The railway has already caused plenty of controversy. Indigenous leaders and environmental activists have spoken out against deforestation and the perceived briefness of research carried out ahead of construction, but others believe Tren Maya will ultimately help to alleviate poverty in the areas it serves. Whatever your stance, the 904-mile (1,455km) route marks a significant turning point for public transport and rail tourism in Mexico.

Eastern & Oriental Express, Singapore and Malaysia

After pausing operations for a few years due to the pandemic, Belmond’s Eastern & Oriental Express is triumphantly returning to the tracks of Southeast Asia from February 2024, with a fully refurbished and restyled look. This sister train of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express first entered service in 1993, making its inaugural journey between Bangkok and Singapore. Now, Belmond is launching two new seasonal round-trip itineraries that will depart from Singapore’s Woodlands station and wind through the landscapes of Malaysia.

Liking this? Click on the Follow button above for more great stories from loveEXPLORING

The first route, 'Essence of Malaysia: A Gateway into Malay Culture', passes through Kuala Lumpur before passengers switch transport to private boats to visit the islands of Langkawi and Penang. The second, 'Wild Malaysia: Exploring Sights Unseen', takes in the eastern side of the Malaysian peninsula, with stop-offs also at Penang and the Taman Negara National Park, where Sumatran rhinos and tigers roam one of the planet’s oldest tropical rainforests. Belmond hopes to reinstate the E&O's signature Thai presence in due course.

Hokuriku Shinkansen expansion, Japan

From 16 March 2024, travellers will be able to explore more of Japan’s Hokuriku region via one of the country's world-renowned Shinkansen trains. The Hokuriku branch currently runs between Tokyo and Kanazawa, capital of Ishikawa Prefecture, but is being extended this year from Kanazawa to Tsuruga station in Fukui Prefecture. Located along the northwest coast of Honshu, Japan's main island, the Hokuriku region offers delicious seafood, dramatic mountains, castle towns and culture-rich cities for those intrepid enough to veer off the typical tourist trail.

The new Shinkansen route will see the current journey time between Tokyo and Tsuruga slashed by 36 minutes, with its fastest trains taking just two hours and 51 minutes to zoom between the two stations. The extension was due for completion last spring, but higher-than-expected construction costs led to a delay. Ultimately, there are plans to further expand the Hokuriku Shinkansen’s reach beyond Tsuruga to Shin-Osaka station, though construction is yet to commence.

European Sleeper from Brussels to Dresden and Prague

It was one of the most anticipated new arrivals on the rail scene in 2023, and now the European Sleeper – which already links the Belgian and Dutch cities of Brussels, Antwerp, Rotterdam and Amsterdam to Berlin – is preparing for an exciting route extension. From 25 March 2024, the night train will no longer terminate in the German capital, but carry on to Dresden in eastern Germany and then across the Czech border into Prague (pictured).

The new Dresden-Prague leg includes further stops in Germany and Czechia, such as the Saxony spa town of Bad Schandau. At the end of 2023, the European Sleeper also introduced a new stop at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport, increasing connections for travellers even further afield. From the train’s Brussels hub, international rail connections via the Channel-hopping Eurostar are a smooth ride. There are three different ticket options for European Sleeper passengers, ranging from budget-friendly reclining seats to convertible couchettes and cosy sleeping compartments (pictured).

Around the World by Luxury Train from Railbookers

This sprawling new itinerary from tour operator Railbookers promises the most unforgettable adventure for train lovers. Calling at more than 20 cities across 13 countries and four continents, the 11-week itinerary sees passengers experience seven of the world’s most lavish trains in one trip: the Rocky Mountaineer in Canada (pictured); the Belmond Royal Scotsman; the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express; the Maharajas' Express in India; the Golden Eagle Danube Express; Rovos Rail in South Africa; and the freshly revived Eastern & Oriental Express.

Departing on 28 August 2024 from Vancouver, the epic overland expedition also includes stays in some of the world’s finest hotels, from the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs to the Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace in Budapest (pictured). With accommodation, luggage transfers, flights, excursions and most meals included, it should come as no surprise that all this comes at a cost – with prices starting from around £92,000 ($115,599) per person. Railbookers serves customers in the UK, US, Australia and Canada.

Orient Express La Dolce Vita, Italy

While the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (pictured) is nothing new, it's about to get a very trendy younger sister: the Orient Express La Dolce Vita, created by the Accor hotel group. Slated to hit the rails later in 2024 (a year behind schedule), this new iteration of the historic locomotive is targeted at more design-conscious travellers, swapping out Belle Epoque maximalism for mid-century curves and retro prints. La Dolce Vita's sleek fleet will also sport luxe wood-lined cabins, live music and menus dedicated to sustainable Italian produce. Pre-registration is open now.

As you might expect of the Orient Express dynasty, a trip on La Dolce Vita won't be your average train journey. Offering exquisite service on eight different itineraries that last from one to two nights, the stylish sojourns will sweep through Rome, Venice, Siena (pictured) and the Italian Alps, as well as Portofino, Matera and Sicily (via one of Europe’s last passenger train ferries). Future plans involve increasing the train's reach internationally to Paris, Istanbul and Split in Croatia.

Amtrak from Mobile to New Orleans and wider network upgrade, USA

Expected to start welcoming passengers later this year, a new Amtrak route between Mobile in Alabama and New Orleans in Louisiana will soon cruise along southern America’s gorgeous Gulf Coast (pictured). The train will also stop at four stations in Mississippi: Bay St Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi and Pascagoula. It will mark the return of passenger train services to the Gulf Coast for the first time since 2005. While an exact date for the launch is yet to be confirmed, familiarisation trips on the tracks began in 2023.

There’s other exciting Amtrak news while we wait for a date: a shiny new fleet of Acela high-speed trains (pictured) are due to enter service this year. They’ll take over the existing Northeast Corridor route connecting Boston, Providence, New York City, Philadelphia and Washington DC, offering smoother, speedier and more spacious rides. In November 2023, President Joe Biden announced $16 billion (£12.7bn) of funding for more than two dozen projects along this much-travelled line.

Midnight Trains, various

From 2025, there’ll be a new kid on the overnight train block, looking to further upgrade nocturnal rail travel in Europe. Midnight Trains is a French company putting the wheels in motion for several new routes out of Paris. The first service to launch will whisk passengers to Milan and Venice under cover of darkness. Self-described as hotels on rails, Midnight Trains will feature private, en-suite rooms throughout their fleet, with plush bed linen, a library of on-demand films to keep you entertained and top-range food-and-drink amenities.

Everything, from the point of booking to when you step off the train, will be managed through a bespoke app that allows you to personalise your journey. As well as the inaugural Paris-Milan-Venice route, Midnight Trains is also planning to seamlessly connect cities such as Edinburgh, Copenhagen, Porto and Madrid to the French capital (pictured). When complete, this new network will comprise more than 10 destinations across the continent.

European Sleeper from Amsterdam to Barcelona

Fans of the European Sleeper will be delighted to know that it will soon be adding another route to its roster – connecting Amsterdam to the buzzing Catalonian city of Barcelona. You’ll have to wait a little longer for this one, with the service not set to begin until spring 2025. Expect modern trappings such as wifi and charging points, as well as complimentary breakfast included with sleeper and couchette bookings (as with the existing run out of Brussels).

The proposed route between Amsterdam and Barcelona (pictured) includes stops in Avignon, Montpellier, Perpignan, Figueres and Girona, though it is not yet known how long the complete end-to-end journey will be. One thing we can say for certain, though, is that the views from your window will span the evolving scenery of at least four countries, and it'll be a wonder if you manage to steal any sleep at all.

Rail Baltica, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia

They've been the missing piece in the European railway puzzle for a long time, but now – gradually – the Baltic states are at last getting connected with speedy train services. Rail Baltica is one of the region's largest ever infrastructure projects, and will link cities like Warsaw, Vilnius, Kaunas, Riga and Tallinn (as well as Helsinki indirectly and Berlin by night train) when the 541-mile (870km) route is completed in 2030. The idea has been more than 30 years in the making, since the former Soviet Union countries gained independence in the 1990s.

Eventually replacing the long-distance buses and unsustainable flights that travellers currently rely on to hop between Poland, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, Rail Baltica will be a quiet, fully electric fleet with a colour scheme designed to reflect the sun, sea and sand of the Baltic Coast. While there’s still a long way to go before we can enjoy this particular route in its entirety, there are hopes that some sections will be ready to transport passengers by 2028.

New high-speed service from Porto and Lisbon to Vigo

In November 2022, the vision for an advanced high-speed rail link between the Portuguese cities of Porto (pictured) and Lisbon and Vigo in Galicia, northwest Spain, was laid out by the Portuguese government. While the existing fast service between the country's capital and second cities takes just under three hours, this new proposal could see the journey time more than halved to one hour and 15 minutes. Extending the route to Vigo will allow passengers to travel the length of Iberia's Atlantic coast at speeds of around 186 miles per hour (300km/h).

Construction on the Porto-Lisbon-Vigo route is set to start this year, but won't be completed until the early 2030s. This is all part of a wider infrastructure overhaul to Portugal's rail network, which will also include new local district connections and a crossing over the Tagus river (pictured), ultimately creating high-speed links from 10 of the country's main cities. In its entirety, the project is estimated to be completed by 2050.

African Integrated High-Speed Railway Network, various

Taking inspiration from the Al Boraq (pictured) – Africa's first express train, which runs along the coast of Morocco from Tangier to Casablanca – the African Union is in the process of laying the groundwork for a speedy, continent-wide rail system of epic proportions. Known as the African Integrated High-Speed Railway Network, the megaproject is supposed to open in its first phase by 2033, with more connections to be added by 2063.

Three pilot schemes have now been selected: the first routes to open will be Dar es Salaam in Tanzania to Kigali in Rwanda; Kampala in Uganda (pictured) to Bujumbura in Burundi; and Pretoria in South Africa to Walvis Bay in Namibia, via Botswana's capital Gaborone. The ultimate aim is to provide Africa’s 16 landlocked countries with better access to major ports and neighbouring nations, increasing connectivity and economic development across the continent.

Underwater train from the UAE to India

It was first mentioned in theory back in 2018, but now it looks like the United Arab Emirates’ plans to build an undersea railway to India might be gathering steam. The bold project could connect the shimmering metropolis of Dubai with bustling Mumbai (pictured) in a matter of minutes, with proposed speeds of up to 621 miles per hour (1,000km/h). Provisionally named the Dubai-India Hyperloop, it’s set to push the boundaries of innovation beyond anything the UAE has accomplished so far.

It may sound like an audacious concept, but at its heart it's just a variation of what the Channel Tunnel between the UK and France has been doing since 1994. No timeline has yet been given for the Dubai-India Hyperloop, but we certainly shouldn’t expect it any time soon. Conceiving and creating the world’s fastest land-based public transport – and then putting it in a large tunnel – will be no mean feat.

Liked this? Click on the Follow button above for more great stories from loveEXPLORING

Now read on for the world's most beautiful and affordable train journeys

More for You

Donald Trump's Testimony Hinges on Harvey Weinstein Appeal: Attorney

20 of the world's richest people who you might not know are LGBTQ+

American sniper in Ukraine says his unit prefers Soviet-era rifles because bullets are easier to find and they can take them from the Russians

Unplug These 29 Items That Hike Up Your Electricity Bill

We Ordered 7 Fast-Food Breakfast Sandwiches to Find the Best One

Saudi Arabia Spent $500B to Build a Futuristic City in the Desert, and Now Reality Is Setting In

‘CSI: Vegas' and ‘So Help Me Todd' Canceled at CBS

7 CDs You Probably Owned, Threw Out and Now Are Worth Bank

Dubai airport chaos: Emirates boss writes open letter after hundreds of thousands passengers stranded

Tributes Flow for Popular Golf Channel Host Dead at 50

One of the best British spy dramas of all time is finally streaming on Netflix

Ex-Patriots star 'not surprised' Bill Belichick's time with team ended: 'We weren’t getting any production'

Republican Reveals Possible GOP Plan to Allow Democratic House Speaker

James Bond Trailer Featuring Henry Cavill Receives 2.3M Views Despite Being an AI Fake | THR News Video

These Are the 18 Best-Behaved Dog Breeds You Can Own

If You See Black Residue on Your Cast-Iron Skillet, This Is What It Means

10 most ‘overpriced’ tourist attractions in the world – and three are in the US

Why You Should Stick to the One-Tenth Rule When Buying a Car

The Best All-You-Can-Eat Buffet in Every State

I Grew Up In The '80s — Here Are 9 Memories That Are Just So, So, So '80s

Airlines Extend Middle East Route Diversions and Cancellations

Gordon Smith , Skift

April 15th, 2024 at 2:02 PM EDT

The new week brings a relative stabilization after a tense weekend, however many airlines are still avoiding parts of the region.

Gordon Smith

After a  tense weekend in the Middle East , airlines are considering what, if any, changes need to be made to their networks and routes. 

On Saturday evening, the airspace above Israel, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, and Iran was closed or heavily restricted. As well as impacting services to the region, it also affected long-distance journeys that fly over these countries when traveling to other parts of the world. 

By Monday, the situation had stabilized, and the temporary airspace bans were lifted. 

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) said it is “closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East.” However,  it emphasized that  “there was no overflight risk for civil aviation at any time.”

Not Quite Business As Usual

Many big-name brands were still taking a cautious approach.

On Monday, Virgin Atlantic confirmed to Skift that it has made changes to Indian routes. An additional 30-minute flight time is expected for services to Mumbai and Bengaluru.

“We have been closely following events in the Middle East and have made the decision to temporarily avoid the airspace of Iraq, Iran, and Israel, meaning some Virgin Atlantic passenger services between the UK and India will be adjusted.

“The safety and security of our customers and people is paramount and always will be. We will continue to monitor the situation and apologize for any inconvenience caused to customers by slightly longer flight times,” said a company statement.  

Like many of its peers, Virgin Atlantic has had to respond to a rapidly changing airspace environment over recent days. 

Flight VS354 from London Heathrow to Mumbai was airborne on Saturday night when the initial airspace closure was announced. This required the plane to divert to Istanbul to refuel and take a longer path over the Caspian Sea. The flight arrived at its destination almost five hours behind schedule.

Airspace In Focus

British Airways would not discuss operational matters, citing safety and security reasons. However, analysis of flight tracking platforms suggests that many of its aircraft are flying a northern route over Azerbaijan. Others are taking a more southern path than normal, particularly over Saudi Arabia, to avoid geopolitically sensitive regions.

Qantas Airways, KLM, and Singapore Airlines are among the other major airlines that are currently avoiding Iranian airspace.

The Lufthansa Group said its flights to Lebanon and Iran will remain suspended until at least Thursday. Last week, the company initially  adopted a hybrid approach , with Lufthansa canceling its Tehran route but Austrian Airlines continuing to fly, albeit without the usual overnight layover.

Which Airlines are Back in Tel Aviv?

In other developments, British Airways operated from London to Tel Aviv as planned on Monday. Flight BA402 landed in the Israeli city just after 3pm following a brief crew change in Larnaca. The technical stop in Cyprus was added when the route resumed on April 1. This allows greater operational flexibility, with the return flight to Heathrow flying nonstop.

EasyJet is taking a different approach. The low-cost airline has canceled all flights to and from Tel Aviv until April 21, citing the “evolving situation in Israel.” The company said affected customers have been contacted directly with refund and rebooking options. 

Other European airlines to cancel services to Tel Aviv on Monday included KLM, Iberia, Wizz Air, and Aegean. Following the cancellation of its usual service from Warsaw, LOT Polish Airlines told Skift that the company is “constantly monitoring the situation and is in ongoing contact with the authorities.”

KLM said it intends to restart its Tel Aviv route on April 19. Meanwhile, a Virgin Atlantic spokesperson confirmed that its service to the city will remain suspended until September.

United is the only U.S. airline that resumed scheduled flights to Israel before the weekend’s escalation. Its service to Tel Aviv on Monday was canceled, along with its Tuesday departure from Washington D.C. to Amman, Jordan. However, its Newark to Dubai route has resumed.

“We continue to closely monitor the situation and will make decisions on upcoming flights with a focus on the safety of our customers and crews,” United said in a statement.

Airlines Flying Into and Over Iran

Passenger and crew safety is always paramount for airlines. However, the global nature of the aviation industry means individual companies are reacting to the developments in different ways. 

For example, flight tracking services suggest that many Middle Eastern carriers, such as Emirates and Etihad, have resumed flying over Iraq and Iran. Some, such as flydubai and Qatar Airways, have also restarted flights to Iranian cities such as Mashhad.

Business almost as usual… pic.twitter.com/EWiWyDQAyB — Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) April 15, 2024

The largest Middle Eastern carriers have built their business models around smooth transfers at hub airports. Connection times between long-haul flights  can be as little as 60 minutes , offering little scope for delay. Iraqi and Iranian airspace is therefore critical for serving many long-haul European and U.S. routes.

An Etihad spokesperson told Skift: “Etihad Airways flights only operate through approved airspace and safety is always our highest priority. Etihad would never operate a flight unless it was safe to do so, and the airline is continuously monitoring security and airspace updates.”

For its part, EASA  recommends “exercising caution”  when flying in Iran, noting that “there continues to be an increased potential for miscalculation and/or misidentification at present” over the country. 

Airlines are well-versed in navigating restricted or challenging airspace. War,  military exercises , and other major events can impact their usual routing. As a result, most carriers have dedicated operations teams who constantly monitor security and geopolitical developments.

Additional reporting by Meghna Maharishi

Airlines Sector Stock Index Performance Year-to-Date

What am I looking at?  The performance of airline sector stocks within the  ST200 . The index includes companies publicly traded across global markets including network carriers, low-cost carriers, and other related companies.

The Skift Travel 200 (ST200)  combines the financial performance of nearly 200 travel companies worth more than a trillion dollars into a single number.  See more airlines sector financial performance . 

Read the full methodology behind the Skift Travel 200.

Skift India Report

The Skift India Report is your go-to newsletter for all news related to travel, tourism, airlines, and hospitality in India.

Have a confidential tip for Skift? Get in touch

Tags: airlines , british airways , Etihad Airways , india , iran , iraq , klm , Lufthansa Group , middle east , security , tel aviv , virgin atlantic

India's best train trips are a journey to the soul of the subcontinent

Mar 11, 2022 • 8 min read

Traveling by train in India is an intense, exhilarating experience © Tuul & Bruno Morandi / Getty Images

No trip to India would be complete without a ride on one of the country's 13,000 daily passenger trains. India's railways are the lifeblood of the nation – the veins and arteries that keep the country’s heart beating, snaking into nooks and crannies that no plane could ever reach, and keeping 1.38 billion people connected with friends and family.

From 10-minute commuter hops to epic four-day journeys across the subcontinent, there’s a train ride to suit every travel need and every budget. Penny-priced local trains transport millions across big cities such as Delhi , Kolkata and Mumbai , while lavish luxury locos offer the chance to roll around the country in style.

With the windows down and doors flung open, India's trains offer a peek into the everyday workings of Indian life, crawling through dusty villages, winding up the lush slopes of forest-clad mountains and skimming beautiful coasts, bringing visitors within touching distance of drying laundry and coconut groves.

Onboard, you’ll find a microcosm of Indian society spread across eight different classes, from politicians and businessmen living it up in air-conditioned compartments to laborers sitting cross-legged on simple wooden benches. Affordable and relatively easy to book online, trains are also the most atmospheric way to explore India . Traveling by train is also a smart way to save money on hotels, with comfortable sleeper services connecting major cities nightly and meals often included in the ticket price.

Whether you're a committed rail enthusiast, or just dipping in a toe for the experience, here are the best train journeys in India.

The Deccan Odyssey 

Best luxury journey.

Start – New Delhi; End – Mumbai; Distance – 1524km (947 miles); Duration – 7 nights 8 days

Standing out amongst the thousands of passenger trains that traverse the country every day, India's luxury trains roll languorously between major cities, their polished engines and gleaming livery glinting in the sun. For those who can afford it, it's the only way to travel.

Rail aficionados sing the praises of the extravagant Maharajas’ Express , which comes with personal butlers, bejeweled dinner plates and onboard bathtubs, but a more affordable option is the Deccan Odyssey . This luxe service runs from the Indian capital to Ranthambore National Park , the Taj Mahal in Agra and Jaipur and Udaipur , continuing to Vadodara and the World Heritage Sites of Ellora and Ajanta before arriving in Mumbai eight days later.

Less a train ride, more a cruise on wheels, this elegant train rumbles through the night, with passengers waking in a brand new city every day, to be met by coaches offering local tours. However, it’s perfectly acceptable to sit out the organized excursions and explore by yourself on foot or by taxi, or just pull out a paperback and enjoy the peace and quiet on board.

Mandovi Express

Best all-round rail experience.

Start – Mumbai CST; End – Madgaon Junction; Distance – 581km (361 miles); Duration – 11hrs 50mins

With the Sahyadri Hills rising on the left and the Arabian Sea sparkling on the right, the Konkan Railway is a textbook example of Indian railway engineering excellence. Flash floods, landslides and collapsed tunnels all failed to hinder the construction of this trunk line from Mumbai's famous Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj station (CST) to the beaches of Goa .

While numerous trains weave along this coastal route, the Mandovi Express stands out as a national treasure thanks to its scenic views and the legions of hawkers who wander the aisles vending freshly fried pakoras (vegetable fritters), hot samosas (fried savory pastries) and biryani in clay pots.

Eschew the air-conditioned carriages with tinted windows that obscure the views, and opt for a seat in third or general class, where a warm salty breeze wafts through the bars of open windows. With no glass between you and the scenery, you’ll get the best out of the experience, as the train navigates more than 2000 bridges and 92 tunnels, with coconut trees bending in the foreground and rivers gushing beneath the sleepers.

Darjeeling Toy Train

Best for families and steam enthusiasts.

Start – New Jalpaiguri; End – Darjeeling; Distance – 84km (52 miles); Duration – 7hrs 20mins

Since the late 19th century, this dainty little "toy train" has been trundling slowly uphill to the Bengali hill station of Darjeeling . Seven hours after leaving the base of the hills, this pint-sized loco wails arrives in a cloud of steam and dark smoke, offering a trip back to an earlier century. Trucks and carts creep to a halt to allow the train to wind across Hill Cart Road, where the carriages glide so close to shop fronts that you can almost reach out and touch the piles of apples.

Built by the British colonial government, the railway was originally used to transport tea and rice down to the plains, but it’s now Unesco World Heritage listed and more commonly packed with holidaying families singing Hindi movie songs and cheering at particularly thrilling sections of track such as the Batasia Loop.

Every day, the train zig-zags uphill from New Jalpaiguri (NJP) through thick groves of bamboo and pine, working its way around rich green tea plantations before hooting into Darjeeling. The main service is usually pulled by a diesel engine, but two-hour joy rides chug from Darjeeling to Ghum and back tugged by steam locos. On a clear day, you may even spot the sun-kissed summit of  8586m (28,169 ft) Mt Khangchendzonga hovering on the horizon. 

The Dibrugarh–Kanyakumari Vivek Express

Best train ride for serious rail enthusiasts.

Start – Dibrugarh; End – Kanniyakumari; Distance – 4154km (2581 miles); Duration: 74hrs 35mins

Leaving once a week on Saturdays, this is one epic train ride, taking passengers from Upper Assam in the northeast corner of the country all the way to Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu , at the southernmost tip of India – the point where the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean meet. Making 57 stops in eight different states, this multi-day odyssey is a deep immersion into the verve and spirit of India's railways.

For the perfect combination of charm and comfort, book into a 2AC sleeper carriage – with open, four-berth compartments – and lie between clean white sheets watching students playing cards, mothers rocking babies in cradles tied from saris, and friends chatting over hot vadas (lentil-flour fritters) and endless cups of chai (sweet Indian tea). Take the opportunity to stroll up and down the 16 carriages to experience a microcosm of Indian society, and keep plenty of small denomination notes to hand for snacks, as hawkers rarely have change for big bills.

Island Express

Best for a quick taste of the indian rail experience.

Start – Thiruvananthapuram; End – Kanniyakumari; Distance – 87km/54 miles; Duration – 3hrs 20mins

By Indian standards, the Island Express is barely a local hop, but it’s a magical trip that takes passengers into the dewy depths of Kerala . For less than a dollar, passengers can stake out a window seat on this quiet country service that squeezes through the backwaters between Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala and Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu, passing villages of sugar-pink houses and tiny whitewashed churches.

Waterlogged paddy fields roll by, skinny palms bend as if bowing, and the steam from the kitchens of trackside houses drifts through the open doors. You’ll want to sit right up against the windows (or in the open doorways) to snap photos of children playing street cricket, elderly men in dhotis (white sarongs) smoking rolled-leaf cigarettes and bullock carts rumbling alongside the rail tracks. Just watch out for the stray branches that thwack against the sides of the train, leaving broken twigs scattered up the aisles and tiny flowers scattered underfoot.

Pune–Hazrat Nizamuddin Duronto Express

Best train trip for a first-time overnight ride.

Start – Pune; End – New Delhi; Distance – 1515km (941 miles); Duration – 19hrs 35mins

India’s sleeper trains vary widely when it comes to levels of comfort, with many services creeping along at a snail's pace and stopping noisily at local stations through the night – a definite hindrance to sleep! However, Duronto Express trains only stop at a tiny number of stations en route, using some of the country’s fastest trains, and they offer excellent meals and high standards of onboard service.

Recognizable by their bright green and yellow color scheme, these sleek and modernized trains are perfect for first-time night-riders looking to sample the Indian railway experience without the rough edges. Departing Pune just after 11am every day, the train speeds past rushing rivers, stretches of deserts, small mountains and serene villages.

There's much excitement in the middle of the day as lunch arrives on red plastic trays. Expect tomato soup with a breadstick and butter followed by foil-wrapped chapatis, steamed rice, dal, chicken curry, yogurt and pickles – and a small tub of vanilla ice cream for dessert. The meals loaded in Pune are the tastiest of the ride, but you'll also get a satisfying dinner and breakfast before rolling into Delhi's Hazrat Nizamuddin station, close to Humayun's Tomb .

You may also like: How to get around in India, from Goa’s beaches to the high Himalayas Visiting the Taj Mahal: plan the perfect trip to India's iconic monument When to go to India: the best times to visit for amazing experiences

Explore related stories

Mar 29, 2024 • 6 min read

The roads of Jaipur are jam-packed with hundreds of shops. Here's our guide to 5 of the best.

Feb 22, 2024 • 5 min read

Jan 28, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 14, 2024 • 8 min read

Jan 2, 2024 • 11 min read

Dec 20, 2023 • 11 min read

Dec 16, 2023 • 12 min read

Dec 13, 2023 • 7 min read

Dec 12, 2023 • 12 min read

Dec 11, 2023 • 14 min read