14 Day India Itinerary - Beyond the Golden Triangle

Winter Fortnight In India’s Royal Heritage

India offers a fascinating mix of vibrant culture, centuries-old forts and palaces, serene lakes, golden deserts, and flavourful mouth-watering cuisine. Whether you’re here to explore historic cities, wander through bustling markets, or relax by peaceful lakes and desert landscapes, this 2-week solo heritage trip covers it all from the Golden Triangle(Delhi, Agra, Jaipur) to gems of Rajasthan(Jodhpur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer). This itinerary is best suitable for Winters, as the temperature in these areas may rise upto 40-50C in summers.

💰Currency

• Official currency is the Indian Rupee(INR ₹).

• Exchange rate is approximately 90 INR = 1 USD(varies daily).

• ATMs are widely available in airports and cities, and major credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops.

• Cash is essential for street food, markets, small vendors, and rural travel.

• Exchange currency at a bank or authorized exchange bureau for the best rates, and carry some small notes for everyday purchases.

🚌 Commute

• Local commute is a mix of taxis, auto-rickshaws, app-based cabs (Ola, Uber), and local buses.

• Trains are a scenic and comfortable way to travel between cities.

• Walking and cycle-rickshaws are ideal for short distances and exploring local markets.

🛜 Network

• Major providers include Airtel, Jio.

• You can easily buy a prepaid SIM card at the airport or in city stores. Plans are affordable and include data, calls, and SMS.

• Free Wi-Fi is common in hotels, cafes, and restaurants, but it may be slower in rural areas.

🗨️ Language

• Hindi and English are both widely spoken and understood in major cities and tourist areas like Delhi, Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, and Bikaner.

• India has many regional languages and dialects across different states, but English often works well for travellers.

🍴 Food

• India is famous for its diverse and flavourful cuisine. Street food is vibrant and delicious but stick to busy, popular stalls to ensure hygiene.

• It is a hub for vegetarian food and almost every restaurant has vegetarian options. Vegan options are also not hard to find.

The Big Picture

Keep the map handy!

Your Day By Day Itinerary

* This is an estimated price which may vary with time. It doesn't include the cost of flight, food, cabs /public transport or personal expenses. It only gives rough idea of price of your stay, inter-city transfers and activity costs included in itinerary.

Day 1: Delhi

🚌 How to Reach

• Take a flight from your city to Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), Delhi. Flight pricing may vary depending on your city of origin. For example, a one-way flight from New York to Delhi may cost around 300–700 USD(depends on season and airline).

• Once you land, you have several options to reach your hotel:

  • Airport taxi

  • App-based cabs like Ola or Uber (~10–15 USD ) - Preferred.

  • Hotel pick-up(if pre-booked).

🏨 Where to Stay

Delhi offers a wide range of budget and mid-range hotels and hostels priced between 20–150 USD per night. Best areas to stay include Mahipalpur, Karol Bagh, and Connaught Place. Book your accommodation for 2 nights. Zostel is a popular hostel with branches all across India and is well known amongst backpackers.

• Zostel Delhi
  4.1 ⭐ | 4.1k Google Reviews | ~20 USD/night

• The Hosteller Delhi
  4.6 ⭐ | 8.3k Google Reviews | ~30 USD/night

• The Lalit New Delhi
  4.4 ⭐ | 30.8k Google Reviews | ~130 USD/night

🪂 What to Do

Since you’ll be arriving after a long flight, you can either rest or keep the day light.

⏰ Evening

✅ India Gate

India Gate is a historic war memorial dedicated to Indian soldiers. In the evening, the monument is beautifully illuminated, with fountains, food stalls, and a lively local atmosphere. Price:FREE

✅ Connaught Place

Connaught Place is Delhi’s central commercial hub, known for its colonial architecture, popular cafés, shopping arcades, and vibrant nightlife, making it perfect for an evening stroll. Price:FREE

Must Try: Momo, chaats, chole kulche and stuffed paratha. 🍴

Day 2: Delhi

🪂 What to Do

⏰ Morning

✅ Bangla Sahib Gurudwara

• One of the most important Sikh temples in India, Bangla Sahib is known for its calm ambience and sacred pond, welcoming visitors of all faiths. Price:FREE

• Must Try: Kadha Prashad and Langar at the Gurudwara 🍴

⏰ Afternoon

✅ Akshardham Temple

A massive cultural and spiritual complex showcasing traditional Indian architecture, exhibitions, and landscaped gardens that reflect India’s heritage. Price:FREE

⏰ Evening

✅ Red Fort (Lal Qila)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort is a grand Mughal fortress featuring royal halls, museums, and courtyards that narrate India’s imperial history. Price: 39 Cents for Indian Citizens/5 USD for foreigners 💰

Day 3: Agra

🚌 How to Reach

Board a morning train from Delhi to Agra. There are multiple train stations in Delhi and Agra so choose the most convenient ones. You can search for available trains on MakeMyTrip.

• There are also several ticket categories available from cheap to luxury. I'd suggest Air-conditioned CC(Chair Car), 2A or 1A. For eg: AC CC in Vande Bharat Express is a good choice.

• The train journey is 2-3 hrs long. Price: 5–15 USD one-way, per person 💰

• Advance booking is recommended, especially during weekends and peak travel season.

• You can also travel by Bus. Use Redbus for bus bookings.

🏨 Where to Stay

Book your accommodation for 1 night.

• Zostel Agra
  4.3 ⭐ | 717 Google Reviews | ~12 USD/night

• Hotel Taj Resorts
  4.3 ⭐ | 4.5k Google Reviews | ~25 USD/night

• Hotel Amar
  4.0 ⭐ | 4.5k Google Reviews | ~25 USD/night

🪂 What to Do

⏰ Afternoon

✅ Taj Mahal

One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal is a breathtaking white marble monument built as a symbol of eternal love, admired for its symmetry and intricate craftsmanship. Price: 55 Cents for Indian Citizens/12 USD for foreigners 💰

✅ Agra Fort

A massive red sandstone fortress that once served as the residence of Mughal emperors, offering impressive architecture and distant views of the Taj Mahal. Price: 55 Cents for Indian Citizens/7 USD for foreigners 💰

Must Try - Agra Petha and Mathura Pedhe 🍴

Day 4: Jaipur

🚌 How to Reach

• Board your train or bus from Agra to Jaipur. You can either do a night or early morning journey. It will be 4-6 hrs journey. Price: 5–15 USD one-way, per person 💰

• Advance booking is recommended, especially during weekends and peak travel season.

🏨 Where to Stay

Book your accommodation for 3 nights.

• Moustache Jaipur
  4.5 ⭐ | 4k Google Reviews | ~11 USD/night

• Zostel Jaipur
  4.5 ⭐ | 4.5k Google Reviews | ~11 USD/night

• The Hosteller, MI Road
  4.8 ⭐ | 2.7k Google Reviews | ~16 USD/night

🪂 What to Do

⏰ Afternoon

✅ Patrika Gate

A vibrant architectural landmark decorated with colorful murals that depict Rajasthan’s culture and heritage, popular for photography. Price:FREE

⏰ Evening

✅ Birla Mandir, Jaipur

• Birla Mandir is a beautiful white marble Hindu temple known for its peaceful atmosphere, intricate carvings, and stunning views of Jaipur city, especially in the evening. Price:FREE

• Must Try : Pandit Pav Bhaji outside Birla Mandir 🍴

Day 5: Jaipur

🪂 What to Do

⏰ Morning

✅ Jal Mahal

Also known as the Water Palace, sits in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. Visitors cannot go inside the palace, and it can only be admired from the lakeside viewpoint. Price:FREE

✅ Nahargarh Fort

Situated on the Aravalli Hills, Nahargarh Fort offers panoramic views of Jaipur city and is a popular spot to admire the cityscape from above. Price: 55 Cents for Indian Citizens/3 USD for foreigners 💰

✅ Amer Fort

A majestic hilltop fort known for its grand courtyards, Sheesh Mahal(mirror work), and a beautiful blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture. Price: 1 USD for Indian Citizens/6 USD for foreigners 💰

Day 6: Jaipur

🪂 What to Do

⏰ Morning

✅ Jaipur City Palace

A royal palace complex housing museums, courtyards, and royal residences that reflect the grandeur of Jaipur’s ruling family. Price: 4 USD for Indian Citizens/8 USD for foreigners 💰

✅ Jantar Mantar

A UNESCO-listed astronomical observatory featuring massive stone instruments used to study celestial movements centuries ago. Price: 55 Cents for Indian Citizens/3 USD for foreigners 💰

⏰ Afternoon

✅ Hawa Mahal

• Also known as the Palace of Winds, this iconic structure features a honeycomb façade designed for royal women to observe street life discreetly. Price: 55 Cents for Indian Citizens/3 USD for foreigners 💰

• Must Try : Both the the view and food at The Tattoo is great 🍴

⏰ Evening

✅ Bapu Bazaar

A lively local market offering traditional textiles, handicrafts, souvenirs, and Rajasthani footwear, perfect for experiencing Jaipur’s shopping culture. Price:FREE

Must Try : Ghevar, Doodh Jalebi, Lassi, Malai Kofta🍴

Day 7: Jodhpur

🚌 How to Reach

• Board your train or bus from Jaipur to Jodhpur. You can either do a night or early morning journey. It will be 5-7 hours journey. Price: 5–15 USD one-way, per person 💰

• Advance booking is recommended, especially during weekends and peak travel season.

🏨 Where to Stay

Book your accommodation for 3 nights.

• Moustache Jodhpur
  4.4 ⭐ | 1.3k Google Reviews | ~10 USD/night

• Zostel Jodhpur, Clock Tower
  4.3 ⭐ | 1.5k Google Reviews | ~8 USD/night

🪂 What to Do

⏰ Afternoon

✅ Mehrangarh Fort

One of India’s largest and most impressive forts, offering stunning city views along with museums showcasing royal artifacts and weapons. Price: 3 USD for Indian Citizens/8 USD for foreigners 💰

✅ Jaswant Thada

A beautiful marble cenotaph built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, known for its peaceful gardens and intricate carvings. Price: 30 Cents for Indian Citizens/2 USD for foreigners 💰

⏰ Evening

✅ Ghantaghar

Enjoy Street Shopping in Ghantaghar.

Must Try - Mirchi Bada, Pyaaz Kachori, Mawa Kachori, Daal Baati, Gatte Ki Sabzi 🍴

Day 8: Jodhpur

⏰ Morning

✅ Umaid Bhawan Palace (Museum)

A magnificent palace that is part royal residence and part museum, displaying vintage cars, clocks, and royal memorabilia. Price: 30 Cents for Indian Citizens/2 USD for foreigners 💰

⏰ Afternoon

✅ Navchowkia/Blue City Lane

A walk through Jodhpur’s iconic blue-painted streets, offering insight into local life and some of the most photogenic corners of the city. Price:FREE

Here are a few famous lanes/spots:

• Blue Corridor Jodhpur

• Moroccan House

• Blue City Galli

• Blue City Paint Wall

• Blue city main photo lanes

Day 9: Udaipur

🚌 How to Reach

• Board your train or bus from Jodhpur to Udaipur. You can either do an overnight or early morning journey. It will be 5-7 hours journey. Price: 5–15 USD one-way, per person 💰

• Advance booking is recommended, especially during weekends and peak travel season.

🏨 Where to Stay

Udaipur has an amazing hostel culture, so I will recommend to book your stay in a hostel near Jagdish Temple. Book your accommodation for 3 nights.

• Moustache Hostel Udaipur
  4.3 ⭐ | 2.3k Google Reviews | ~8 USD/night

• Shalom Backpackers Udaipur
  4.5 ⭐ | 2.5k Google Reviews | ~11 USD/night

• Young Monk Hostel, Udaipur
  4.5 ⭐ | 1k Google Reviews | ~20 USD/night

🪂 What to Do

⏰ Morning

✅ Fateh Sagar Lake

• A scenic artificial lake surrounded by hills, offering a peaceful setting for walking and optional boating. Price:FREE

• Must Try: Don't miss the cold coffee at Shiv Sai Sagar! 🍴

⏰ Afternoon

✅ Sajjangarh (Monsoon Palace)

A hilltop palace offering sweeping views of Udaipur and its surrounding lakes as the city slowly lights up. Price: 2 USD for Indian Citizens/6 USD for foreigners 💰

⏰ Evening

✅ Ambrai Ghat

A relaxing boat ride offering picturesque views of Udaipur’s palaces, ghats, and island structures from the water. Price: 30 Cents 💰

Must Try Restaurants/Food spots: Tapri, Aosa, Harigarh, Poppy, Sangria, JJ's, JMB🍴

Day 10: Udaipur

🪂 What to Do

⏰ Morning

✅ Udaipur City Palace

The largest palace complex in Rajasthan, featuring balconies, courtyards, and museums overlooking Lake Pichola. Price: 5 USD 💰

⏰ Afternoon

✅ Vintage Car Museum

A unique museum displaying a rare collection of vintage cars once used by the royal family of Udaipur. Price: 6 USD 💰

✅ Jag Mandir

A beautiful island palace located on Lake Pichola, often included as part of the boat ride experience. The price is a fully redeemable cover charge for lunch or dinner at Jag Mandir. Price: 11 USD per person 💰

⏰ Evening

✅ Dharohar Folk Dance Show, Bagore Ki Haveli

A historic mansion showcasing royal artifacts, traditional costumes, and folk performances that highlight Rajasthani culture. Price: 1 USD for Indian Citizens/2 USD for foreigners 💰

✅ Walk around Jagdish Temple Market

A lively market area filled with local shops and street vendors, ideal for an evening walk and local shopping. Price:FREE

⏰ Night

✅ Karni Mata Ropeway

A ropeway ride offering stunning aerial views of Udaipur city illuminated at night. Do not miss this. Price: 2 USD for Indian Citizens/3 USD for foreigners 💰

Day 11: Kumbhalgarh Day Trip

🚌 How to Reach

Arrange a round-trip taxi from Udaipur to Kumbhalgarh Fort from local tours and travels company. It will be best to check with your hostel/hotel to book it for you. Do remember to negotiate. The drive takes around 2.5 hours one way, and taxi prices usually around 40 USD for the full day.

🪂 What to Do

✅ Kumbhalgarh Fort

• A UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for having the second-longest wall in the world and breathtaking views of the Aravalli hills. Price: 45 Cents for Indian Citizens/7 USD for foreigners 💰

• They also have a light and sound show in the evening with a separate ticket.

Day 12: Jaisalmer

🚌 How to Reach

• Board your overnight bus from Udaipur to Jaisalmer. It will be 10-11 hours journey. Price: 11–25 USD one-way, per person 💰

• Advance booking is recommended, especially during weekends and peak travel season.

🏨 Where to Stay

Book your accommodation for 1 night.

• Hotel Royal Heritage Jaisalmer
  4.6 ⭐ | 1.4k Google Reviews | ~18 USD/night

• Hotel Garh Villa
  4.9 ⭐ | 1.7k Google Reviews | ~30 USD/night

🪂 What to Do

⏰ Evening

✅ Jaisalmer Fort

One of the few living forts in the world, where people still live inside its golden sandstone walls filled with shops, temples, and cafés. Price: 1 USD for Indian Citizens/3 USD for foreigners 💰

✅ Gadisar Lake

• A peaceful artificial lake surrounded by temples and ghats, ideal for an evening stroll and scenic photography. Price:FREE

• You can also rent a boat here for 1 USD onwards.

Day 13: Jaisalmer(Sand Dunes - Desert Camp)

🚌 How to Reach

• Book a Taxi from the city or ask your desert camp to arrange one for you. It will cost approximately 15-20 USD one way. 💰

🏨 Where to Stay

Book your accommodation for 1 night.

• Sam Sand Dunes Camps Jaisalmer
  4.5 ⭐ | 8.3k Google Reviews | ~60 USD/night

• Rajputana Desert Camp
  4.4 ⭐ | 1.2k Google Reviews | ~45 USD/night

• Prince Desert Camp

• 4.6 ⭐ |1.4k Google Reviews | ~60USD/night

🪂 What to Do

⏰ Full Day

Spend a day in Sams Sand Dunes of Jaisalmer.

✅ Cultural folk performances

All desert camps include some cultural shows and folk dance performances in the evening near a fire pit in open amphitheatres. 🆓

✅ Rajasthani dinner

A traditional Rajasthani dinner is also included in most desert camps. 🆓

✅ Camel Rides

This is an excellent activity for those who wish to experience the true Rajasthan. Price: 5-6 USD 💰

✅ Para Sailing

The best thing is the view, you can spot golden dunes, tents, and camels from the air. Price: 15-20 USD 💰

✅ Sam Sand Dunes Desert Safari

Jeep safaris are ideal for those who enjoy speed and adventure. Price: 15 USD 💰

✅ Quad Biking

Quad biking is easy, safe, and very fun. You can ride yourself or with a guide if you are a beginner. The ride provides an opportunity to experience the desert in a thrilling and quick manner. Price: 15-20 USD 💰

✅ Dinner Under Stars

It includes jeep or camel ride to the place where your dinner setup is arranged along with cultural show, Rajasthani folk music, Kalbelia dance, and live instruments. You can relax under the stars and enjoy the moment. Price: 25-30 USD 💰

Day 14: Jaisalmer → Delhi

🪂 What to Do

• Take a day to relax and do some activity of your choice. Board an overnight train or bus from Jaisalmer to Delhi. The journey will take 16-18 hrs. Price 15- 30 USD 💰

• Advance booking is recommended, especially during weekends and peak travel season.

• Catch your return flight from Delhi!