» Popular Routes
These are some popular routes to help you plan your time in India. Every trip can be adjusted to suit your interests, available time, and preferred pace. Suggested routes are flexible and can be customized around your interests, available time, and preferred pace.
1. Golden Triangle — Delhi • Agra • Jaipur • Delhi — 6–7 days
2. Golden Triangle + Ranthambore — Delhi • Agra • Ranthambore • Jaipur • Delhi — 8–9 days
3. Rajasthan & Golden Triangle — Delhi • Agra • Ranthambore • Bundi • Udaipur • Jodhpur • Pushkar • Jaipur • Delhi — 12–15 days
4. Complete Rajasthan & Golden Triangle — Delhi • Mandawa / Shekhawati • Bikaner • Jaisalmer • Jodhpur • Udaipur • Pushkar • Jaipur • Ranthambore • Agra • Delhi — 16–20 days
5. Rishikesh & Mussoorie — Delhi • Rishikesh • Mussoorie • Delhi — 5–6 days
6. Himalayan & Punjab Explorer — Delhi • Shimla • Manali • Dharamshala (Dalai Lama) • Amritsar • Chandigarh • Delhi — 12–15 days
7. Golden Triangle & Varanasi — Delhi • Jaipur • Agra • Gwalior • Orchha • Khajuraho • Varanasi • Bodh Gaya • Varanasi — 12–14 days
» Money & Payments
India uses the Indian Rupee (₹). Cards are widely accepted, but it is always useful to carry some cash for local markets and smaller shops.
Avoid exchanging large amounts of money at the airport, as airport exchange counters may offer less favorable rates.
ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Many ATMs allow withdrawals of up to ₹10,000 per transaction, although limits can vary by bank and card.
For currency exchange, local authorized exchange providers may offer better rates than airport counters. Always check the rate and any fees before exchanging money.
»Tickets & Reservations
Hotels
Hotel reservations are made by you. Booking online through platforms such as Booking.com or TripAdvisor, or directly with the hotel, is often the easiest option.
Monument Tickets
Tickets are available at the monuments. I often recommend buying them at the ticket window, as foreign visitors have a separate ticket window at many major attractions.
Tiger Safaris
Ranthambore tiger safaris should be reserved well in advance. I recommend booking around three months ahead, especially during busy travel periods.
Tours & Experiences
Food tours, walking tours, rickshaw rides, and other local experiences can often be arranged at short notice. These can be arranged on request, or you are welcome to organize them yourself.
»Travel Tips
Taj Mahal — The Taj Mahal is closed every Friday. Keep this in mind when planning your Agra visit.
Best Time to Travel — September to April is generally the best time to travel around North India, with more comfortable weather for sightseeing.
Travel Time — Travel between cities can often take 3–6 hours, depending on the route and road conditions. Allow enough time between destinations.
Clothing — Comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended. When visiting temples and religious places, shoulders and knees should be covered, and some places may require head covering.
Food & Water — For a more comfortable trip, I recommend drinking bottled water and choosing clean, well-established restaurants. Avoid food from street stalls if you are not accustomed to local food.
SIM Card — Airtel is a good option for visitors and SIM cards are easily available at major airports and Airtel stores. Bring your passport and required travel documents for registration.
A Little Awareness — India is generally welcoming, but like anywhere popular with tourists, it’s good to stay aware. Be cautious with unsolicited offers around tourist attractions, hotels, stations, and airports. Use reputable services, check prices before agreeing to anything, keep valuables secure, and avoid deals that seem too good to be true.
∴ Travel at Your Own Pace ∴
Every traveler is different. These tips are here to help you plan with confidence, but your journey can be as flexible as you want it to be.
Have questions? Feel free to contact me. I’m happy to help.