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

- natasa
- From Belarus
- natasa
- From Belarus
- Anna
- From Belarus
- Emily J.
- From
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

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

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


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

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.
Other related articles:
How many days to spend in India
Private tours to India
Group tours to India