7-Day Itinerary for India

Morning: Explore Old Delhi, including the magnificent Jama Masjid (India's largest mosque) and the bustling Chandni Chowk market. Take time to visit Khari Baoli (Asia's largest spice market) and sample street food at Paranthe Wali Gali.

Afternoon: Visit the impressive Red Fort (UNESCO World Heritage Site) with its massive red sandstone walls, and Raj Ghat (Mahatma Gandhi's memorial). Explore the National Gandhi Museum to learn about India's independence movement.

Evening: Enjoy a traditional cycle rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of Old Delhi. Dine at Karim's near Jama Masjid for authentic Mughlai cuisine dating back to the Mughal era.

Morning: Visit Humayun's Tomb (UNESCO site and architectural precursor to the Taj Mahal) with its beautiful Persian-inspired gardens, and the 73-meter tall Qutub Minar complex with its intricate carvings and the mysterious rust-free Iron Pillar.

Afternoon: Explore the stunning Lotus Temple (Bahá'í House of Worship) with its unique lotus-shaped architecture, and the iconic India Gate war memorial. Visit the nearby National Museum to see artifacts spanning 5,000 years of Indian history.

Evening: Experience the vibrant culture of Delhi at Dilli Haat, an open-air craft bazaar featuring artisans from across India. Enjoy regional cuisines from different states and watch cultural performances. End the night with a light and sound show at Purana Qila (Old Fort).

Morning: Take the early Gatimaan Express train (fastest train in India) or drive to Agra (3-4 hours). Stop at Sikandra to see Akbar's Tomb with its beautiful inlay work and deer park on the way.

Afternoon: Visit the iconic Taj Mahal (one of the New Seven Wonders of the World) and learn about its perfect symmetry and the love story behind its creation. Explore the massive red sandstone Agra Fort with its maze of courtyards, palaces, and the Musamman Burj where Shah Jahan was imprisoned.

Evening: Explore Sadar Bazaar and Kinari Bazaar for leather goods, marble inlay work, and jewelry. Sample authentic Mughlai cuisine at Peshawri or Dasaprakash. Optional: Watch "Mohabbat the Taj" show depicting the love story of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal.

Morning: Travel to Jaipur, the Pink City (5-6 hours), stopping at Fatehpur Sikri, the abandoned Mughal city. Visit the magnificent Amber Fort with its stunning Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) and enjoy an elephant ride up the hill (or jeep if preferred).

Afternoon: Explore the City Palace complex with its blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture, including the Peacock Gate and the Chandra Mahal. Visit Jantar Mantar, the UNESCO-listed astronomical observatory with the world's largest stone sundial.

Evening: Shop for traditional Rajasthani handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry at Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar. Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani thali dinner at Chokhi Dhani, a recreated village with folk performances, puppet shows, and camel rides.

Morning: Visit the iconic Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) with its 953 intricate windows designed for royal ladies to observe street life. Climb to Nahargarh Fort for panoramic views of Jaipur and explore its wax museum and sculpture park.

Afternoon: Explore the vibrant Tripolia Bazaar and Nehru Bazaar for blue pottery, textiles, and leather goods. Indulge in authentic Rajasthani cuisine like dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and ker sangri at Lakshmi Misthan Bhandar or Spice Court.

Evening: Visit the Albert Hall Museum, the oldest museum in Rajasthan with its Egyptian mummy and extensive collection of miniature paintings. Experience a traditional Rajasthani puppet show at Raj Mandir Cinema or enjoy the light and sound show at Amer Fort.

Morning: Take an early morning flight or drive to Udaipur (7-8 hours by road). Explore the magnificent City Palace complex, the largest palace complex in Rajasthan with its mixture of Rajasthani, Mughal, European and Chinese architecture. Visit the nearby Jagdish Temple with its intricate sculptures dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Afternoon: Enjoy a scenic boat ride on Lake Pichola with views of the Lake Palace (Jag Niwas) and Jag Mandir Palace. Visit the Taj Lake Palace hotel (if possible) or view it from the boat. Explore Bagore Ki Haveli with its collection of costumes and modern art.

Evening: Stroll through the Shilpgram crafts village or explore the bustling markets around Clock Tower for miniature paintings, wooden toys, and silver jewelry. Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani dance performance and puppet show at Dharohar Folk Dance at Bagore Ki Haveli.

Morning: Visit the serene Saheliyon-ki-Bari (Garden of the Maidens) with its beautiful fountains, marble pavilions, and lotus pools. Take a trip to the Monsoon Palace (Sajjangarh) for breathtaking sunset views of the city, lakes, and Aravalli hills.

Afternoon: Explore the Udaipur Solar Observatory and the Vintage Car Museum to see the royal collection of classic and vintage vehicles. Indulge in Rajasthani delicacies like gatte ki sabzi, dal bati churma, and mawa kachori at Ambrai Restaurant or Upre for views of the lake.

Evening: Take a sunset cruise on Fateh Sagar Lake or spend time at Dudh Talai Musical Garden. Visit the Karni Mata Temple via ropeway for panoramic night views of the illuminated city. Enjoy a farewell dinner at Jagat Niwas or Raas Leela with traditional music.