Ten days are enough to explore one or two regions of India at a comfortable pace. For first-time visitors, the Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur) is a must. Beyond the week-long Golden Triangle tour, you could consider Ranthambore for a tiger safari, Varanasi for cultural immersion, and Amritsar and Shimla for less well-known routes.
You could also spend 10 days experiencing Indian heritage with majestic palaces and forts during a road trip in Rajasthan or unwinding on the backwaters, hills and plantations in Kerala.
Check out the following customizable itineraries for your inspiration.
Itinerary 1: 10-Day India Golden Triangle Trip with a Tiger Safari
- Delhi–Agra–Ranthambore–Jaipur
This 10-day tour can be tailored for couples or families and is especially recommended for wildlife enthusiasts.
It kicks off in the vibrant capital of India, Delhi, which is a melting pot of cultures. You would then see the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, go on an adrenaline-pumping tiger safari in Ranthambore National Park, and wrap up your journey in the charming pink city of Jaipur.
The itinerary is outlined listed below:
- Day 1: Arrival in Delhi
- Day 2: Delhi city tour with a rickshaw ride through the Chandni Chowk market
- Day 3: Drive from Delhi to Agra, and take a village walk with a sunset view of the Taj Mahal in Agra
- Day 4: Agra heritage tour with the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort
- Day 5: Transfer from Agra to Ranthambore and visit Fatehpur Sikri en route
- Day 6: Tiger safari in Ranthambore National Park
- Day 7: Ranthambhore to Jaipur via a private transfer, then a fort dinner
- Day 8: Jaipur city tour: Amber Fort, the City Palace and Jantar Mantar
- Day 9: Elephant interactions and some free time in the Pink City
- Day 10: Departure
ah-in-71 tour mapIn Delhi: 2 Nights
If you want to experience the full force of Delhi's atmosphere, no trip would be complete without a trip to Old Delhi.
Take a rickshaw ride through the alleys of Chandni Chowk, capture photos of the bustling life, and savor some of the most Instagrammable bites. Avoiding the crazily chaotic afternoons, visit in the morning for better traffic and fewer crowds. For deeper insights, enjoy a foodie walk with a local chef.
In addition to witnessing the locals' daily lifestyle, you could explore Delhi's glorious UNESCO World Heritage sites including Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar, and Humayun's Tomb.
If you're still up for more, a private car ride takes could take you to India Gate, the Parliament House, and the Red Fort.
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In Agra: 2 Nights
The Taj Mahal, the icon of Agra, tops the bucket lists of all first-time visitors. To explore it well, you could take an early morning visit to avoid the long entry queues and photo-taking crowds, snap sunset pictures from the Mehtab Bagh, or enjoy a rooftop coffee break with a view of the Taj Mahal. For an extra-authentic experience, dress in traditional Indian attire when visiting.
If you're interested in Mughal buildings, don't miss the marvelous Agra Fort and serene Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb (Baby Taj). To indulge in daily life, take a leisurely walk through Kachhpura Village and say hello to the locals.
In Ranthambore National Park: 2 Nights
Ranthambore National Park is India's most popular and easily accessible national park, where you could spot wild tigers and other animals. For a higher chance of seeing tigers, you're advised to take two jeep game drives: one at sunrise and one at sunset.
Besides spotting wildlife, you could also enjoy a glamping experience for a luxurious and atmospheric touch.
- Note: Tiger safaris are closed from July to September due to the monsoon weather.
In Jaipur: 3 Nights
On the last leg of your trip, immerse yourself in Jaipur's palaces and forts, and have some deeper interactions with locals.
With your local expert, you would get the best shots of the Hawa Mahal, uncover the secrets behind the Amber Fort, and see India's best-restored stepwell, Panna Meena ka Kund.
To create special moments, you and your beloved one(s) could cook Indian cuisine together with a local family, and feed and bathe elephants at Dera Amer camp together.
Itinerary 2: 10-Day Cultural Immersion — India's Golden Triangle and Varanasi
- Delhi–Varanasi–Jaipur–Agra
If you would like to experience the best-kept traditions of India on your first visit, add Varanasi to your Golden Triangle route.
Your 10-day cultural trip would start from the capital city of Delhi, the best place to experience both the old and new aspects of India. Then fly to the holy city of Varanasi, where you would see the millennium-old spiritual life along the Ganges. Afterward, continue to Jaipur for the historical treasures and appreciate the splendid Taj Mahal in Agra before flying home.
- Day 1: Arrival in Delhi
- Day 2: Delhi city tour with a rickshaw ride through the Chandni Chowk market.
- Day 3: Fly to Varanasi, take a heritage walk and enjoy the Ganga Aarti ceremony
- Day 4: Sunrise boat ride on the Ganges and visit Sarnath
- Day 5: Fly to Jaipur, and have a city tour by electric rickshaw with female drivers
- Day 6: City tour with an Amber Fort visit and a cooking class at Ikaki Niwas
- Day 7: Drive to Agra with a stop in Fatehpur Sikri.
- Day 8: Explore the best of Agra: the Taj Mahal and a village walk around Mehtab Bagh
- Day 9: Free time
- Day 10: Departure
After your arrival in Delhi, you would take a classic city tour to Old Delhi on Day 2.
During the following 2 days, you would discover Varanasi. To observe the spiritual scene along the Ganges, take a guided walk to the ghats and temples, watch the Ganga Aarti ceremony at dusk, and enjoy a sunrise boat ride.
Amidst these experiences, you would catch sight of the intense funeral pyres, witness bathing rituals, and encounter holy men meditating. For Buddhists, a must-visit is Sarnath, where the Buddha imparted his teachings.
Continue your trip to Jaipur, the pink city. On Day 5, you could take a pink rickshaw adventure with a female driver dressed in pink. Visit the dazzling City Palace, Jantar Mantar (an solar observation), scenic Jal Mahal and photo-worthy Hawa Mahal.
The next day, you would step back in time at the Amber Fort and take a cooking class at Ikaki Niwas. If you are not into the cooking class, go for some henna painting or block painting with your beloved one.
On Day 7, take a 5-hour drive from Jaipur to Agra. On the way, you would explore the abandoned palace complex, Fatehpur Sikri. Check off your bucket list with a visit to the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Mehtab Bagh on Day 8.
Before flying home, we recommend relaxing in Agra with a private spa treatment, enjoying a foodie walk at the local bazaar, or doing yoga in your palace hotel with a view of the Taj Mahal on your free day.
If you are traveling in March, you would have the chance to celebrate Holi, the world's most colorful festival, with locals in any of the four cities. For a recommended itinerary, check out
Itinerary 3: 10-Day Best of Rajasthan Tour
- Jaipur–Bikaner–Jaisalmer–Jodhpur–Udaipur
If you are looking for a rich history with romantic experiences, look no further than Rajasthan.
On this 10-day road trip, you would discover the impressive palaces and forts in these colorful cities, venture through the striking desert and mountain scenery of Rajasthan, and finally unwind along the banks of peaceful Lake Pichola.
- Day 1: Arrival in Jaipur
- Day 2: Jaipur city tour with iconic forts and palaces
- Day 3: Jaipur to Bikaner (5-6 hours), and explore the Junagarh Fort
- Day 4: Bikaner to Jaisalmer (5-6 hours), and watch a sunset from Vyas Chhatri
- Day 5: Jaisalmer Fort and an afternoon desert safari with dinner in the desert
- Day 6: Jaisalmer to Jodhpur (5 hours)
- Day 7: Mehrangarh Fort, the Jaswant Thada, and walk around the blue city
- Day 8: Jodhpur to Udaipur (5 hours) and visit Jain temple en route
- Day 9: Udaipur city tour: City Palace, a scenic boat ride over Lake Pichola, and a lakeside candlelit dinner.
- Day 10: Departure
History enthusiasts would love the architectural marvels in Rajasthan: the best-preserved Junagarh Fort in Bikaner, the Jaisalmer Fort in the desert, and the mountain-top Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur.
For an up-close encounter with historical gems, you could stay in a real palace. Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur offer the perfect settings for a royal retreat.
If you are celebrating a milestone, you could add an exclusive touch to your trip with a fort dinner in Jaipur, a sunset desert safari with dinner under the stars in Jaisalmer, or a lakeside candlelit dinner in Udaipur.
This itinerary is ideal for a return visit to India. If this is your first visit, you could extend it by 4 days to take in Delhi and Agra must-sees. See our 14-Day Classic Rajasthan Tour.
Traveling by road in India, you can't really go fast, even on highways.The same 300 kilometers (200 miles)that might take 3 hours to drive in your country could easily take 5-6 hours in India.
However, with our experienced guides and drivers, your journey won't be dull. Along the route, you would have the flexibility to take breaks in vibrant villages, admire the desert landscapes, and explore temples and havelis (traditional manors).
Itinerary 4: 10-Day Classic Kerala Relaxation
- Cochin–Munnar–Thekkady–Alleppey–Kovalam
If you would prefer a vacation with more nature, culture, and relaxation and less history, this Kerala itinerary could be for you. It is particularly suited to families with teenagers.
You would have diverse experiences in Kerala: colonial history in Cochin, a hill station and tea plantations in Munnar, wildlife spotting in Thekkady, a backwater cruise in Alleppey, and beaches in Kovalam.
- Day 1: Arrival in Cochin
- Day 2: A half-day sightseeing tour in Cochin and a Kathakali Dance Performance
- Day 3: A drive from Cochin to Munnar (about 4 hours) and tea plantation visit
- Day 4: An outdoor adventure at Mattupetty Lake and Dam and Eravikulam National Park
- Day 5: Munnar to Thekkady by Car (about 3 hours), Periyar National Park, and a spice garden
- Day 6: Transfer from Thekkady to Alleppey (about 4 hours) for an overnight backwater cruise
- Day 7: From the cruise, continue by car (about 4 hours) to coastal Kovalam for beach relaxation
- Days 8–9: Beach time at Kovalam
- Day 10: Departure
Begin your relaxing trip in Cochin as you appreciate its historical buildings. On Day 2, you would kick off with the key historical sites, including St. Francis Church, and Portuguese-built Mattancherry Palace, the Chinese Fishing Nets and the Jewish synagogue. A traditional Kathakali dance would grace your second night in Cochin.
Then continue your 2-day tour to Munnar. With a morning drive on Day 3, take a light walk inside a tea plantation and meet the working locals. On the next day, take an outdoor adventure to serene Mattupetty Lake and its dam as well as Eravikulam National Park.
On Day 5, transfer to Periyar National Park to spot wildlife, such as elephants and tigers. Treat yourself to a cruise for a close view of the animals and stunning scenery. Then cap off your day with a walking tour of a spice plantation in Thekkady.
Following Thekkady, a relaxing backwater cruise awaits you in Alleppey. To escape from the day trippers, embark on a trip on a traditional houseboat, traverse the landscape through channels alongside the paddy fields, coconut trees, and villages, and enjoy tranquil intimate hours with your partner/family.
To finish this leisurely escape, unwind on the beaches of Kovalam. During your free time, you could visit the iconic lighthouse, experience the Ayurveda (Indian traditional medicine treatments)in your beach resort, and enjoy the sand, sea, and sun.
Find more details at our Classic South India Tour.
Itinerary 5: 10-Day Camel Festival Tour
- Delhi–Agra–Jaipur–Pushkar–Jodhpur
This 10-day tour perfectly blends the iconic highlights of the Golden Triangle and the immersive Pushkar Camel Fair in Rajasthan.
Experience the chaotic life of Delhi, cross the Taj Mahal off your bucket list in Agra, visit the most beautiful Amber Fort in Jaipur, celebrate a lively camel festival in Pushkar, and enjoy the calming shades of the blue city of Jodhpur.
- Day 1: Arrival in Delhi
- Day 2: One-day Delhi tour
- Day 3: Delhi to Agra (4 to 5 hours) and Mehtab Bagh
- Day 4: The Taj Mahal, the Itmad-ud-Daula, and Agra Fort
- Day 5: Drive to Jaipur (5 yours), Fatehpur Sikri, and the Chand Baori
- Day 6: Jaipur highlights: Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, the City Palace, and the Jantar Mantar
- Day 7: Nahargarh Fort and drive to Pushkar
- Day 8: Camel fair, Brahma Temple, and a camel safari
- Day 9: Drive to Jodhpur (4 hours), known as the Blue City
- Day 10: Mehrangarh Fort, the Jaswant Thada, and fly back to Delhi
In the first week of your trip, you would discover the Golden Triangle cities (Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur).
On Day 7, you would drive from Jaipur to Pushkar for the camel festival. The 1-week festival is usually celebrated in November. If you would prefer the most diverse experiences, consider visiting Pushkar during the last 2 days. To avoid large crowds, the first 2 days would be better.
During the festival, you could see painted and adorned camels being traded, watch the thrilling horse and camel racing, and see interesting cultural performances. In the evening, witness Hindu devotees taking a dip in holy Pushkar Lake and offering prayers in one of its many temples. Away from the fair, enjoy a sunset camel safari with scenic desert views.
Spend your last 2 days in Jodhpur, the blue city. Take a guided walk along the blue-hued streets, visit a local family and appreciate the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort.
Itinerary 6: 10-Day India Tour with Northern Gems
- Delhi–Agra–Jaipur–Amritsar–Shimla
In this itinerary, you'd use the Golden Triangle as your starting point and then venture off the beaten path to explore the hidden treasures of the northern regions: Amritsar for its rich Sikh cultural heritage and Shimla for its snow-capped Himalayan peaks and echoes of colonial grandeur.
- Day 1: Arrival in Delhi
- Day 2: One-day Delhi tour
- Day 3: Delhi to Agra (4 to 5 hours), Agra Fort, and Mehtab Bagh
- Day 4: The Taj Mahal, the Itmad-ud-Daula, and drive to Jaipur (5 hours)
- Day 5: One-day pink city tour
- Day 6: Nahargarh Fort, flight from Jaipur to Amritsar
- Day 7: the Harmandir Sahib (the Golden Temple), Jallianwala Bagh, and Wagah Border
- Day 8: Express train to Chandigarh (4 hours) and drive to Shimla (3 hours)
- Day 9: Shimla sightseeing, including Jakhu Temple and colonial architectures
- Day 10: Toy train ride and a flight back to Delhi
On the first 2 days in Delhi, you would explore the city highlights: bustling Chandni Chowk, Indo-Islamic Qutub Minar, and Mughal Humayun's Tomb.
On Day 3, take a 4-hour drive to Agra in the morning, uncover the story of the Agra Fort with your local expert, and enjoy a sunset view of the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh. Then step into the Taj Mahal for close-up views of the architecture and artistic decor. Enjoy some peaceful time at Itmad-ud-Daula (Baby Taj) on Day 4.
For the next 2 days, you would explore Jaipur's landmarks: Amber Fort, the City Palace, Jantar Mantar, and Nahargarh Fort.
On Day 7 in Amritsar, you would visit the Golden Temple to see a Sikh religious ceremony and taste its free meals. Then gain an insight into their patriotism via a walk to Jallianwala Bagh in memory of the infamous Amritsar massacre and Wagah Border for a closing of the Pakistan border ceremony.
On Day 8, take a "Toy Train" to the colonial hill station of Shimla. Upon arrival, discover Jakhu Temple and stroll along Mall Road to see the Victorian colonial buildings, including Christ Church, Scandal Point, Gaiety Theatre, and the Town Hall on Day 9.
How Much Does a 10-Day India Tour Cost?
If you're looking for a hassle-free and comfortable trip in India, the daily cost is about US$200 to 250 per person per day for a private tour during the peak season (December to February). If you're traveling in the low season (March to September), the price would decrease to US$ 170 to 200 per person per day.
These prices include private transfers, private land tours with guides, 4/5-star hotels, and internal flights.
Tour India with Us
You are warmly welcomed to have us customize your trip based on your group size, interests, and other needs. Sit back and use our Create My Trip service.
Or start from a recommended fully-modifiable itinerary:
Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries
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