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India in 9 Days: 4 Recommended 9-day Itineraries to India

The Golden Temple in Amritsar is a potential attraction to visit on a 9-day India itinerary
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India 9-day itinerary options

Whether you're interested in the historic wonders of the north or the serene landscapes of the south, there are myriad India 9 days itinerary options to suit your taste. Here's a peek at four remarkable routes that showcase the country's vibrant culture and breathtaking sights.

Itinerary #1: Golden Triangle and the Land of Royals

Taj Mahal
Lady Diana Chair is the perfect spot for a stunning photograph at Taj Mahal.
Hawa Mahal in Jaipur
Be in awe of the several hundred windows in Hawa Mahal in Jaipur.
  Overview Activity Overnight
Day 1 Explore the majestic Qutub Minar and India Gate City sightseeing New Delhi
Day 2 Visit the Red Fort and Raj Ghat Historical exploration  
Day 3 Travel to Agra and witness the Taj Mahal Cultural landmark tour Agra
Day 4 Explore the Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri Cultural landmark tour Jaipur
Day 5 Discover the Amber Fort and Hawa Mahal Architectural exploration Jaipur
Day 6 Experience the vibrant bazaars of Jaipur Shopping and culture tour Pushkar
Day 7 Visit the Pushkar Lake and nearby temples Cultural tour Udaipur
Day 8 Relax by Udaipur's Lake Pichola and City Palace Leisure and sightseeing Udaipur
Day 9 Return to Delhi for departure    

This India itinerary for 9 days immerses travelers in the popular Golden Triangle, a route filled with royal heritage and historical marvels of North India. Begin your journey in the bustling capital of New Delhi, where you can marvel at the blend of ancient and modern sites. A must-see is the towering Qutub Minar and India Gate. Proceed to Agra to experience the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal, followed by Agra Fort's grandeur. Continue on to Jaipur, the 'Pink City,' where the majestic Amber Fort and vibrant markets await. Pushkar offers a spiritual retreat with its sacred lake and serene temples, before ending the journey in the captivating lakeside city of Udaipur, renowned for its palatial architecture and mesmerizing views. Choose this itinerary for a blend of culture, history, and royal experiences in India. See all 9-day India trips.

Itinerary #2: Southern Serenity and Backwaters

A traditional house boat is anchored on the shores of a fishing lake in Ker
Taste the joys of staying in Kerela's famous houseboats during the tour of Kerala backwaters.
Periyar National Park in Kerala is a must-visit
Take a bath with the elephants at Periyar National Park.
  Overview Activity Overnight
Day 1 Explore Fort Kochi and the Jewish Synagogue Cultural tour Kochi
Day 2 Discover the Kerala backwaters by houseboat Backwater cruise Alleppey
Day 3 Relax at the Marari Beach Beach day Mararikulam
Day 4 Experience the spice plantations and tea gardens Nature exploration Thekkady
Day 5 Visit the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Wildlife safari Thekkady
Day 6 Travel to Munnar and explore Eravikulam National Park Outdoor exploration Munnar
Day 7 Witness the scenic valleys and tea estates Outdoor exploration Munnar
Day 8 Return to Kochi for shopping and sightseeing Leisure Kochi
Day 9 Head home or to another destination from Kochi    

On this journey through Kerala immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty and rich traditions of the south. Start with a trip in Kochi, a melting pot of colonial history and local culture, with visits to Fort Kochi and the iconic Jewish Synagogue. Cruise through the mesmerizing Kerala backwaters in Alleppey on a traditional houseboat, offering a unique, floating insight into village life. Soak in the sun at Marari Beach before heading to Thekkady to admire sprawling spice plantations and encounter wildlife at the Periyar Sanctuary. In Munnar, the rolling tea gardens and lush landscapes captivate the senses. Conclude your exploration with a return to Kochi for a final bout of heritage shopping and city sights, making this itinerary perfect for those wanting a blend of relaxation and cultural immersion. See all tours in India.

For inspiration check out our guide on the best things to do in Kerala.

Itinerary #3: Enchanting Landscapes of Himachal

An evening view of Shimla in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh.
The hill city of Shimla, once the summer capital of British India, is famed for its natural beauty and colonial architecture.
  Overview Activity Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Delhi and visit local markets City sightseeing New Delhi
Day 2 Travel to Shimla, enjoy a heritage walk Heritage walk Shimla
Day 3 Visit the Viceregal Lodge and Mall Road in Shimla City sightseeing  
Day 4 Head to Manali and visit Hidimba Devi Temple Cultural tour Manali
Day 5 Explore Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass Outdoor adventure Manali
Day 6 Travel to Dalhousie and enjoy a leisure day Leisure Dalhousie
Day 7 Visit Khajjiar and enjoy nature walks Nature walk Dalhousie
Day 8 Return to Delhi via Amritsar; visit Golden Temple Cultural tour Amritsar
Day 9 Departure from Amritsar    

Set out on a captivating 9-day journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Himachal Pradesh and beyond. Known as India’s outdoor adventure playground, Himachal Pradesh boasts spectacular snowy peaks, lush valleys, and gushing rivers, making it a haven for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Start in Delhi, where vibrant markets and historic sights introduce you to India's dynamic spirit. In Shimla, stroll through colonial-era streets and explore the grand Viceregal Lodge. Manali enchants with the sacred Hidimba Devi Temple and thrilling adventures in Solang Valley. Dalhousie offers tranquility, while Khajjiar, the 'Mini Switzerland of India,' mesmerizes with lush meadows. Conclude in Amritsar, home to the stunning Golden Temple, a symbol of peace and spirituality. This itinerary blends heritage, adventure, and natural beauty for an unforgettable experience.

Customize this India holiday to match your requirements.

Itinerary #4: Spiritual and Sacred Treasures of India

Ancient Varanasi city architecture and Ganges river ghat at sunset with vie
Varanasi, the holy Indian city of ash-covered sadhus, impossibly narrow lanes, and tens of thousands of Hindu pilgrims seeking spiritual solace.
A statue of Lord Shiva at Rishikesh in India.
Rishikesh is home to numerous ashrams, which makes it a sough-after wellness destination in India.
  Overview Activity Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Varanasi and explore the ghats City exploration Varanasi
Day 2 Experience the Ganga Aarti ceremony Cultural tour Varanasi
Day 3 Visit Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon Historical and religious tour Varanasi
Day 4 Travel to Bodh Gaya, the place of Buddha's enlightenment Historical and religious tour Bodh Gaya
Day 5 Explore Mahabodhi Temple and nearby sites Religious and cultural tour Bodh Gaya
Day 6 Journey to Rishikesh, the Yoga capital of the world City exploration Rishikesh
Day 7 Visit the ashrams and partake in river rafting Outdoor exploration Rishikesh
Day 8 Depart to Haridwar for further cultural treat Cultural tour Haridwar
Day 9 Return to Delhi for onward journey    

This itinerary offers a spiritually enriching journey across some of the most sacred cities in India. Begin in Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, where you can explore ancient ghats and partake in the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. Visit Sarnath to delve into the Buddhist heritage, followed by a pilgrimage to Bodh Gaya, the sacred site where Buddha attained enlightenment. Experience deep tranquility amidst the Mahabodhi Temple’s serene atmosphere. The itinerary continues in Rishikesh, a haven for yoga and meditation enthusiasts, offering the perfect blend of holistic experiences and adventure. Finally, make your way to Haridwar to witness another spellbinding Ganga Aarti, wrapping up a spiritually uplifting holiday.

Planning a 9 Days Itinerary for India?

With so many mesmerizing sights and culturally rich experiences, planning your own 9-day India itinerary can seem daunting. If you are looking for more inspiration, browse through our 9-day India holiday packages. For those looking for a bespoke India trip, our travel experts can assist you in crafting a custom itinerary. You can also review our comprehensive India travel guide for additional insights. You can also explore other duration ideas, such as spending 7 days in India or 10 days in India.

More information:
How many days to spend in India
Best time to visit India
2 weeks in India
Things to do in India

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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