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India in 12 Days: 4 Recommended 12-Day Itineraries to India

Make sure to visit the Taj Mahal while spending 12 days in India.
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India 12-day Itinerary Options

Explore India’s diverse landscapes with these India 12-day itinerary suggestions. From northern jewels to southern treasures, each option offers a unique glimpse into the country’s rich culture and heritage.

Itinerary #1: The Golden Triangle and Beyond

Visit the City Palace and Pichola lake in Udaipur while spending 12 days in India.
Enjoy the grandeur of all the lakes and palaces in the city of Udaipur
  Overview Activity Overnight
Day 1 Commence your trip with a sightseeing tour of Delhi Arrival & sightseeing Delhi
Day 2 Visit the majestic Taj Mahal in Agra Sightseeing Agra
Day 3 Explore the pink city of Jaipur and its stunning palaces Culture Jaipur
Day 4 Travel to Udaipur, the city of lakes Lakeside relaxation Udaipur
Day 5 Experience Udaipur's architectural beauty City sightseeing Udaipur
Day 6 Head to Jodhpur, exploring Mehrangarh Fort Fort visit Jodhpur
Day 7 Discover the blue city of Jodhpur Culture Jodhpur
Day 8 Travel to Pushkar, experiencing its holy sites Spiritual retreat Pushkar
Day 9 Partake in a boat tour of Pushkar Lake Boat tour Pushkar
Day 10 Return to Delhi for some free time and last-minute shopping Leisure & shopping Delhi
Day 11 Conclude your journey with a visit to India Gate Monument visit Delhi
Day 12 Depart from Delhi Departure  

This 12-day itinerary in India takes travelers through the famed Golden Triangle, adding the romantic allure of Udaipur and the vibrant culture of Jodhpur. The journey begins in Delhi, a city of contrasts with its mix of colonial and modern architecture. Discover the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal in Agra and delve into the rich history of Jaipur with visits to the City Palace and the Amber Fort. The serene lakes of Udaipur and the majestic Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur offer a unique insight into Rajasthan's grandiose past. Lastly, experience the spiritual haven of Pushkar with its sacred lake and vibrant markets. See all tours in India.

Itinerary #2: South India Unveiled

Relax on beaches in Pondicherry while spending 12 days in India.
Located in the state of Tamil Nadu and heavily French-influenced, Pondicherry (also known as Puducherry or Pondy) was under French rule until 1954.
  Overview Activity Overnight
Day 1 Begin in Chennai with a city tour of Chennai Arrival Chennai
Day 2 Visit the temples of Mahabalipuram Temple tours Mahabalipuram
Day 3 Explore the French quarters of Pondicherry History Pondicherry
Day 4 Discover the heritage-rich towns of Tanjore and Trichy Heritage exploration Tanjore
Day 5 Continue to the Chettinad region Culture Chettinad
Day 6 Savor Chettinad cuisine and explore local crafts Food tour Chettinad
Day 7 Head to Madurai and visit Meenakshi Amman Temple Temple visit Madurai
Day 8 Experience the vibrant city life of Madurai City sightseeing Madurai
Day 9 Journey to Periyar National Park Wildlife Thekkady
Day 10 Go on a bamboo rafting adventure in Periyar Lake Adventure Thekkady
Day 11 Travel to Kochi for a leisurely sightseeing day Leisure & shopping Kochi
Day 12 End your trip with a Kathakali dance performance in Kochi Departure  

This south India 12-day itinerary plan unravels the vibrant culture and natural beauty of the region. Beginning in Chennai, you'll experience a rich tapestry of history, art, and architecture across southern India. The exquisite rock-cut temples of Mahabalipuram and colonial hues in Pondicherry offer contrasting glimpses of the past. Tanjore and Madurai are your next cultural destinations; the latter's Meenakshi Amman Temple is a must-visit. In Thekkady, partake in a bamboo rafting adventure on Periyar Lake and immerse yourself in the serenity of Kerala's landscapes before ending the journey with a cultural spectacle in Kochi. Consider a trip to Kochi to enhance your travel experience.

Itinerary #3: Himalayan Adventure and Spiritual Journey

Villages and hills around Beas Kund, Manali.
Escape the summer heat and discover the serene beauty of Beas Kund, Mathura – a refreshing oasis in the heart of India.
An evening view of Shimla in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh.
Once the summer capital of British India, Shimla is famed for its natural beauty and colonial architecture.
  Overview Activity Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Delhi and enjoy a day of sightseeing Arrival Delhi
Day 2 Travel to Shimla, the Queen of Hills Scenic train journey Shimla
Day 3 Explore Shimla's colonial architecture and Mall Road History Shimla
Day 4 Drive to Manali, visiting Kullu Valley en route Sightseeing Manali
Day 5 Enjoy adventure sports in Solang Valley Adventure Manali
Day 6 Visit the hot springs of Vashisht and local temples Relaxation Manali
Day 7 Proceed to Dharamshala to explore Tibetan culture Culture Dharamshala
Day 8 Enjoy a day in McLeod Ganj, home of the Dalai Lama Monastic visit Dharamshala
Day 9 Drive to Amritsar and witness a Wagah Border ceremony Local culture Amritsar
Day 10 Visit the Golden Temple, a spiritual haven Temple visit Amritsar
Day 11 Return to Delhi for a day of leisure and shopping Leisure & shopping Delhi
Day 12 Depart from Delhi Departure  

This itinerary showcases a harmonious blend of adventure and spirituality over 12 days in India. The journey begins in Delhi, setting the stage for a scenic ride to Shimla, the charming hill station known for its colonial charm. Continue to Manali, nestled in the picturesque Kullu Valley, where you can indulge in thrilling adventure sports and explore local hot springs. Dharamshala brings you closer to Tibetan culture, culminating in a visit to McLeod Ganj, renowned for being the home of the Dalai Lama. In Amritsar, the Golden Temple offers a heavenly interlude before the itinerary concludes back in the bustling capital. Embark on a trip in Manali to add more adventure to your experience. Describe your ideal 12-day holiday for a customized trip to India.

Itinerary #4: Western India Explorer

The Gateway of India and Taj Hotel in Mumbai.
Hit the streets of Mumbai and view iconic sights in this bustling city.
  Overview Activity Overnight
Day 1 Start your trip in Mumbai with a city tour Arrival Mumbai
Day 2 Visit the Kanheri Caves and explore Sanjay Gandhi National Park Cave tour Mumbai
Day 3 Travel to Aurangabad and visit Ajanta Caves Historic cave exploration Aurangabad
Day 4 Explore Ellora Caves and Daulatabad Fort Cultural heritage tour Aurangabad
Day 5 Head to Nashik for a wine tour in India’s wine country Wine tasting Nashik
Day 6 Enjoy a day exploring Nashik's temples and ghats Holy site visit Nashik
Day 7 Travel to Pune and discover Aga Khan Palace History Pune
Day 8 Visit Sinhagad Fort and Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park Fort tour & wildlife Pune
Day 9 Proceed to Lonavala, exploring its picturesque landscapes Nature Lonavala
Day 10 Experience the charm of Lonavala's hillscapes and caves Hill station visit Lonavala
Day 11 Return to Mumbai for a relaxing day at Juhu Beach Beach relaxation Mumbai
Day 12 Conclude your adventure with a departure from Mumbai Departure  

This itinerary offers a captivating Western India journey over 12 days, perfect for those seeking to explore the region's rich history and contemporary culture. Begin in the bustling city of Mumbai, known for its vibrant life and historic sites, before venturing into the ancient caves of Ajanta and Ellora near Aurangabad. Wine enthusiasts will delight in Nashik, India's burgeoning wine destination, coupled with spiritual visits to its temples and ghats. Pune invites you with its historical landmarks, while Lonavala offers tranquil hill station vibes to conclude your escapade. Finally, enjoy a soothing retreat on Mumbai’s Juhu Beach. Add a safari in Ranthambore National Park to your journey for a taste of the wild.

Planning a 12-day Itinerary of India?

For those in pursuit of India 12 days itinerary ideas perfectly tailored to your preferences, assistance from our travel experts at Bookmundi can help create memorable experiences. From the bustling streets of Mumbai to the serene hillscapes of Lonavala, our itineraries offer diverse explorations. For more inspiration, visit our comprehensive guide on the best time to visit India. Curious about how many days could fit into your schedule? Our guides on India in 2 weeks and 10 days in India can further guide you on your adventure planning.

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Plan a trip to IndiaWe offer different tour types. You can also chat with a local travel specialist if you want a customized tour to India.
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