Itinerary

India is a treasure trove of history and spirituality, and with 20 days, you can explore some of its most iconic Hindu religious sites and historical landmarks. Here’s a vibrant itinerary that balances both aspects, allowing you to soak in the culture, history, and spirituality of this incredible country.

## Day 1-3: Delhi

## Day 1: Arrival in Delhi

• Arrive in Delhi, the bustling capital city.
• Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Visit India Gate and take a leisurely walk around Connaught Place.
• Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 2: Delhi Sightseeing

• Morning: Visit Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Afternoon: Explore Humayun's Tomb and the beautiful gardens surrounding it.
• Evening: Head to Lotus Temple for some peaceful meditation.

## Day 3: Old Delhi Exploration

• Morning: Visit Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India.
• Afternoon: Explore Chandni Chowk and try some local street food.
• Evening: Visit Raj Ghat, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi.

## Day 4-5: Varanasi

## Day 4: Travel to Varanasi

• Fly or take a train to Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India.
• Check into your hotel and relax.
• Evening: Attend the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.

## Day 5: Varanasi Exploration

• Early morning boat ride on the Ganges to witness the sunrise.
• Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples.
• Explore the narrow lanes and local markets.
• Afternoon: Visit Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon.

## Day 6-7: Khajuraho

## Day 6: Travel to Khajuraho

• Fly or take a train to Khajuraho.
• Check into your hotel and relax.
• Evening: Visit the Western Group of Temples, famous for their intricate sculptures.

## Day 7: Khajuraho Temples

• Full day exploring the temples, including the Eastern Group.
• Learn about the history and significance of the erotic sculptures.
• Evening: Enjoy a cultural dance performance if available.

## Day 8-10: Jaipur

## Day 8: Travel to Jaipur

• Fly or take a train to Jaipur, the Pink City.
• Check into your hotel and relax.
• Evening: Visit Hawa Mahal and explore the local markets.

## Day 9: Jaipur Sightseeing

• Morning: Visit Amber Fort and take an elephant ride or jeep up to the fort.
• Afternoon: Explore City Palace and Jantar Mantar.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 10: Day Trip to Pushkar

• Take a day trip to Pushkar (about 3 hours away).
• Visit the Brahma Temple and take a stroll around Pushkar Lake.
• Explore the local markets and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

## Day 11-12: Udaipur

## Day 11: Travel to Udaipur

• Fly or take a train to Udaipur, the City of Lakes.
• Check into your hotel and relax.
• Evening: Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola.

## Day 12: Udaipur Exploration

• Morning: Visit City Palace and Jagdish Temple.
• Afternoon: Explore Saheliyon-ki-Bari and the local markets.
• Evening: Enjoy a cultural show at Bagore Ki Haveli.

## Day 13-15: Mumbai

## Day 13: Travel to Mumbai

• Fly to Mumbai, the financial capital of India.
• Check into your hotel and relax.
• Evening: Visit Marine Drive and enjoy the sunset.

## Day 14: Mumbai Sightseeing

• Morning: Visit Gateway of India and take a ferry to Elephanta Caves.
• Afternoon: Explore Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus and Victoria Terminus.
• Evening: Visit Haji Ali Dargah and enjoy local street food.

## Day 15: Day Trip to Nashik

• Take a day trip to Nashik, known for its vineyards and temples.
• Visit the Kumbh Mela site and Kalaram Temple.
• Return to Mumbai in the evening.

## Day 16-17: Aurangabad

## Day 16: Travel to Aurangabad

• Fly or take a train to Aurangabad.
• Check into your hotel and relax.
• Evening: Visit Bibi Ka Maqbara, a beautiful mausoleum.

## Day 17: Ajanta and Ellora Caves

• Full day exploring the Ajanta Caves (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
• Visit the Ellora Caves in the afternoon, known for their rock-cut temples.
• Return to Aurangabad for the night.

## Day 18-20: Rishikesh/Haridwar

## Day 18: Travel to Rishikesh

• Fly to Dehradun and drive to Rishikesh.
• Check into your hotel and relax.
• Evening: Attend the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat.

## Day 19: Rishikesh Exploration

• Morning: Take a yoga class or meditation session.
• Afternoon: Visit Parmarth Niketan Ashram and explore the local area.
• Evening: Enjoy a peaceful evening by the Ganges.

## Day 20: Day Trip to Haridwar

• Take a day trip to Haridwar (about an hour away).
• Visit Har Ki Pauri and take part in the Ganga Aarti.
• Explore local temples and markets.
• Return to Rishikesh for your last night.

Departure

• Depart from Dehradun or return to Delhi for your flight home.

This itinerary offers a blend of spiritual experiences and historical exploration, giving you a taste of India's rich heritage. Make sure to savor the local cuisine, interact with the locals, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture. Enjoy your journey through this incredible land! 🌏✨