Two Weeks in India Itinerary

India is a land of contrasts: ancient temples, majestic palaces, bustling cities and serene lakes offer a glimpse into its rich heritage. Planning the perfect two weeks in India can seem like an overwhelming task, but we'll take care of you. This itinerary will take you through some of the country's most unforgettable places. Explore the royal splendor of Jaipur, immerse yourself in the romance of Udaipur's shimmering lakes, marvel at the Taj Mahal in Agra, and immerse yourself in the vibrant chaos of Delhi's streets. Two weeks in India is enough to leave you spellbound and hungry for more. Let’s get started!

Is two weeks enough in India?

Two weeks in India is enough to scratch the surface, but don’t expect to “see it all” — the country’s massive, and each region feels like a world of its own. The key is narrowing your focus. In the north, you could do the classic Golden Triangle: Delhi, Agra (for the Taj Mahal), and Jaipur. Add Varanasi for a spiritual twist or Rishikesh for yoga and Himalayan views. Down south, Kerala offers tranquil backwaters and spice-laden cuisine, while Goa’s beaches bring the perfect mix of relaxation and nightlife.

The biggest tip? Don’t overstuff your itinerary. Travel in India takes time — trains can run late, streets are bustling, and the charm lies in simply being present. Two weeks in India lets you experience the highlights and maybe even lose yourself in a few unexpected moments. It’s just a taste of India, but one that will leave you hungry for more.

2 weeks in India overview

While there are many options on how to combine destinations for 2 weeks in India depending on your preferences, this itinerary is tailor-made for your first visit. It allows you to focus on the most iconic places in India, enough to appreciate the charm of the country, but also encouraging you to explore further.

• Day 1: Arrive in Delhi.
• Day 2: Explore Old and New Delhi.
• Day 3: Travel to Agra.
• Day 4: Visit the Taj Mahal and head to Jaipur.
• Day 5: Jaipur.
• Day 6: Travel to Chhatra Sagar.
• Day 7: Chhatra Sagar.
• Day 8: Travel to Jawai.
• Day 9: Jawai.
• Day 10: Travel to Udaipur.
• Day 11: Udaipur.
• Day 12: Travel to Mumbai.
• Day 13: Mumbai.
• Day 14: Depart from Mumbai.

Looking for more ideas? Browse our India itineraries. If you’ve only got 10 days, start with our 10-day India itinerary.

Day 1: Arrive in Delhi

Landing in Delhi is like stepping into another world — vivid, chaotic, and endlessly fascinating. If you arrive early, resist the temptation to crash at your hotel and head out to soak up the city’s vibe.

Start slow with a walk through the leafy Lodhi Garden, a peaceful spot dotted with ancient tombs that feel a world away from the city’s bustle. For lunch, grab some butter chicken at a local haunt in Pandara Road Market. In the evening, head to Connaught Place to people-watch and browse bookshops before ending your day with a hot chai at one of Delhi’s street-side tea stalls.

Travel tip: If you have the energy, Old Delhi’s night markets are an explosion of colors and spices — perfect for your first taste of the city’s famous street food.

Where to stay in Delhi

Where you stay can shape your experience of Delhi. For a historic vibe, Old Delhi puts you close to landmarks like Jama Masjid and Red Fort. If you’re looking for something quieter, South Delhi has boutique stays near Qutub Minar and upscale markets like Hauz Khas. On a budget? Try Paharganj for affordable guesthouses and vibrant bazaars.

Editor's tip: If you're traveling light, you'll benefit from our tips for backpackers in India.

Day 2: Explore Old and New Delhi

Day two is an immersion in the contrasts between Old and New Delhi, from its historic heart to its modern outskirts. Your plan will be ambitious, but trust us, it will be worth it. Comfortable shoes and a little patience will get you a long way as you navigate centuries of history and a vibrant, chaotic present.

Things to do

Your day will begin with a trip to Old Delhi, where the streets have become a whirlwind of rickshaws, spice markets and historical monuments. In the afternoon, switch gears and explore New Delhi, where wide avenues, government buildings and upmarket cafes tell a different story of the city.

Wander through Chandni Chowk and Jama Masjid

Start at Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi's bustling bazaar that's been alive since the 17th century. Here you'll find everything from colorful textiles to flavorful street food (pro tip: don't leave without trying the paratha from the legendary Paranthe Wali Gali Gali).

Next, head to Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque. Climb one of its minarets for a view of the chaos below - from this vantage point, the rickshaw rumbles will seem extraordinarily poetic.

Explore the Red Fort

Just a short walk or rickshaw ride from Jama Masjid, the Red Fort is a must-see. This massive sandstone fortress was once the seat of Mughal power, and its imposing walls tell stories of India’s imperial past.

Take your time here — it’s a sprawling complex with lush gardens, ornate halls, and plenty of shady spots for a breather.

Head to New Delhi: India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhavan

After a chaotic morning in Old Delhi, New Delhi’s wide boulevards will feel like a welcome change of pace. Start with a visit to India Gate, the 42-meter-high war memorial that anchors the heart of the city.

From there, stroll down Rajpath to Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of India’s President. You can’t go inside without booking a tour in advance, but the grand architecture is worth seeing up close.

Visit Humayun’s Tomb

Wrap up your day with a visit to Humayun’s Tomb. Often called the “precursor to the Taj Mahal,” this stunning Mughal monument is surrounded by perfectly manicured gardens, making it a peaceful way to end your Delhi adventure.

Editor's tip: Seen it all and been everywhere? These lesser-known spots in India might just inspire your next adventure.

Day 3: Travel to Agra

Travel time: 1 hour 40 minutes to 4 hours depending on transportation

Agra is located about 130 miles from Delhi and can be reached in 3-4 hours by car via the smooth Yamuna Expressway. If you prefer the train, the Gatimaan Express is your best bet, taking just 1 hour 40 minutes. For a full day of sightseeing, plan to leave Delhi early in the morning.

Start your visit at Agra Fort, an imposing red sandstone fortress filled with marble palaces, mirrored halls, and Shah Jahan’s former prison tower, the Musamman Burj, which offers a bittersweet view of the Taj Mahal. Later, dive into the chaos of Rawatpara Spice Market on a cycle rickshaw ride, where the air is thick with the scent of cardamom and cumin. Wrap up your day on the banks of the Yamuna River with a breathtaking sunset view of the Taj Mahal, its marble façade glowing in hues of pink and gold.

Where to Stay in Agra

For easy access to the Taj Mahal, stay in Taj Ganj, home to high-end hotels like The Oberoi Amarvilas and plenty of mid-range and budget options. Fatehabad Road is another good area, lined with guesthouses, hostels, and restaurants catering to all budgets. Book in advance, especially during peak season (October–March).

Day 4: Visit the Taj Mahal and head to Jaipur

Start the fourth day of your 2 weeks in India with an early visit to the Taj Mahal, bathed in soft morning golden light. Take your time to explore before the crowds arrive.

Afterward, embark on a five-hour drive (150 miles) to Jaipur, the bustling capital of Rajasthan, known as the Pink City. Once there, check into your hotel and if you have the energy devote the rest of the day to exploring the historic charm of the city.

Where to stay in Jaipur

The C-Scheme and Bani Park areas offer luxury hotels such as Rambagh Palace and Alsisar Haveli. MI Road has mid-range boutique hotels that are close to markets and attractions. Budget travelers can find budget guesthouses at Sindhi Camp or on Amer Road, close to forts and traditional eateries.

Day 5: Jaipur

Kick-start your day at Amber Fort, a hilltop palace straight out of a fairy tale. Built in 1592 by Man Singh I, it is a combination of Rajasthani austerity on the outside and Mughal elegance on the inside. Mirrored ceilings, intricate carvings and spacious courtyards will make you feel like royalty.

In the afternoon, stroll through the City Palace, a huge complex of courtyards and museums that combines Mughal and Rajasthani styles. Don't miss the Peacock Gate - it’s Insta-worthy. Then head to Jantar Mantar, an open-air observatory where huge instruments track the stars and planets with astonishing accuracy.

End your day at the iconic Hawa Mahal (view it from the outside). Known as the "Palace of Winds," this pink sandstone masterpiece has 953 tiny windows, designed so royal women could observe the bustling streets below without being seen. It’s Jaipur’s ultimate showstopper.

Day 6: Travel to Chhatra Sagar

Travel time: 4-5 hours

Set off from Jaipur for the 4–5-hour drive to Chhatra Sagar, a serene village that feels like a world away from city life. This former hunting estate, now a tranquil retreat, offers a chance to slow down and connect with rural Rajasthan.

Chhatra Sagar is all about the simple pleasures of nature and village life. Stroll through fields of wheat, mustard, and chilies, or relax by the serene reservoir that anchors the area. Birdwatchers will love spotting kingfishers and herons, while those seeking cultural immersion can visit nearby villages to see traditional Rajasthani life in action.

Where to stay in Chhatra Sagar

Stay in or near Chhatra Sagar village, where you’ll find charming tented camps and small lodges that blend comfort with the raw beauty of the countryside. Most accommodations offer scenic views and activities like nature walks and village visits to enhance your stay.

Day 7: Chhatra Sagar

Start your morning with a yoga session by Lake Chhatra Sagar, a serene way to greet the day. As the sun rises, the calm waters and gentle sounds of nature — bird calls, rustling leaves, and the breeze — create the perfect backdrop for mindfulness. Yoga sessions can be arranged with an instructor upon request, offering a peaceful and rejuvenating start to your day.

Later, explore the lake by boat. Spot herons, kingfishers and migratory birds as you glide silently across the water. Prefer to stay on land? Hike nature trails reclaimed from the wild, guided or solo, for an up-close encounter with the region's rich avifauna.

Day 8: Travel to Jawai via Ranakpur

Travel time: 6-7 hours

Take the scenic drive to Jawai, a land where wilderness and tradition coexist in harmony. Here, pastoral fields blend seamlessly with wild grasslands, granite hills rise dramatically, and the waters of the Jawai Bandh reservoir reflect the rugged beauty of the landscape. The area’s unique character comes alive through the presence of Rabari herdsmen, nomadic pastoralists who have lived in harmony with the land for generations, as well as the elusive leopards that roam the rocky terrain. Jawai offers a rare glimpse into a side of Rajasthan that feels untamed and deeply rooted in tradition.

En route, stop at Ranakpur, home to the stunning marble Jain temples. The centerpiece is the Adinath Temple, famous for its intricate carvings and 1,444 uniquely designed columns - no two are alike. It's a serene and awe-inspiring detour, offering a quiet moment of reflection before heading out into Jawai's rugged wilderness.

Where to stay in Jawai

In Jawai, accommodations range from luxury tented camps and eco-lodges to boutique stays close to the wilderness. Many camps are located near the Jawai Bandh, offering spectacular views of the granite hills and the chance to spot wildlife, including leopards. Look for options that emphasize sustainability and offer guided nature or cultural experiences to make the most of your stay.

Day 9: Jawai

Kick off your day with an early morning game drive in Jawai’s rugged wilderness. Keep an eye out for other wildlife and the region’s impressive birdlife, with over 150 species recorded, from kingfishers to flamingos.

Later, visit a Rabari settlement, where the nomadic shepherds who call this land home offer a glimpse into their unique way of life. Watch them graze their cattle across the pastures, hear stories of their remarkable coexistence with the leopards, and see how their traditions have shaped the landscape. Explore the bustling workshops of local potters, bangle-makers, and weavers, and witness the everyday rhythms of these skilled artisans at work. Jawai’s culture and wilderness are inseparable, and this day gives you the chance to experience both.

Day 10: Travel to Udaipur

Travel time: 3-4 hours

Today, you’ll travel to Udaipur, a city where romance meets history. Surrounded by the Aravalli Hills and shimmering lakes, Udaipur is a picture-perfect destination. The iconic Lake Pichola, with its floating palaces and ghats, is an absolute must-see, while the grand City Palace showcases stunning architecture and breathtaking views.

When you arrive, choose your pace: explore the vibrant bazaars and winding streets, or simply relax by the lake and soak in the serene beauty.

Editor's tip: Planning a honeymoon? India is packed with romantic getaways. Dive into our picks for the most enchanting spots to celebrate love.

Where to stay in Udaipur

For luxury and lake views, choose a hotel near Lake Pichola or Fateh Sagar. The old town is ideal for boutique hotels, combining a heritage feel with easy access to major attractions. For a more relaxed stay, try staying outside the city center.

Day 11: Udaipur

Start your day at the City Palace, Rajasthan’s largest palace complex, filled with intricate courtyards, ornate balconies, and sweeping views of Lake Pichola. From here, visit the Pratap Memorial, a tribute to Maharana Pratap, Udaipur’s heroic king, with a striking bronze statue against a stunning backdrop.

Stop by the Jagdish Temple, a 17th-century marvel with exquisite carvings, before unwinding at Saheliyon Ki Bari, a peaceful ornamental garden designed for royal women. In the evening, take a stroll through Udaipur’s lively streets, and end your day at the Washing Ghats on Lake Pichola, where the golden hues of the sunset reflect on the water as locals gather to pray and wash clothes.

Day 12: Travel to Mumbai

Travel time: 1–1.5 hours by flight

Today, leave behind the serene lakes and royal palaces of Udaipur and travel to Mumbai, India's bustling financial and cultural capital. A short flight takes you to this vibrant city of contrasts, where colonial-era architecture, modern skyscrapers and lively streets blend harmoniously.

Upon arrival, you will have some time to settle in and get used to the fast-paced energy of Mumbai. Depending on your mood, you can explore the city's iconic Marine Drive, visit a local café or simply relax in your hotel preparing for the adventures ahead.

Where to stay in Mumbai

For convenience and city views, consider staying in South Mumbai near Colaba or Marine Drive, where you’ll be close to major landmarks like the Gateway of India and Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus. If you prefer a more modern vibe, opt for the suburbs of Bandra or Juhu, which offer trendy cafés, shopping, and easy access to the beach.

Day 13: Mumbai

The last day of your itinerary will be dedicated to the best things to do in Mumbai. Start at the iconic India Gate, then take a short ferry ride to Elephanta Island to see its ancient rock-cut caves and Hindu sculptures.

In the afternoon, stroll along Colaba Causeway, a bustling street market perfect for shopping and soaking up the city's atmosphere. Then visit the Chatrapati Shivaji Terminal (CST), a UNESCO-listed railway station with stunning Victorian Gothic architecture. For some quiet time, head to Marine Drive and enjoy the sunset view as the city lights begin to twinkle.

End the day with dinner at one of the local restaurants, where you can sample Mumbai dishes such as vada pav or Bombay biryani.

Day 14: Departure

Today, your 2 weeks in India are coming to an end. Depending on your departure time, you may have time for a final morning stroll around the city or some last-minute souvenir shopping. After that, proceed to the Mumbai airport for your flight home.