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The UNESCO–listed Taj Mahal is one of the most famous buildings in the world. Though you’ve almost certainly seen the white marble wonder in photos, the structure’s symmetry, scope, and obsessive detail can be appreciated only in person. Here’s how to experience the Taj Mahal and Agra from New Delhi.

Full-Day Tours

Situated 124 miles (200 kilometers) from New Delhi, Agra sits within day-trip distance of the Indian capital, and a full-day tour to the impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site is a good option if you’re pressed for time. Private or small-group tours often include visits to both the Taj Mahal and nearby Agra Fort. Save money with a small-group tour by train, or enjoy a more personalized experience with a private tour, including your own personal guide and transportation by air-conditioned private vehicle.

Multi-Day Tours

If you have more than a day to spare, you can explore the entire Golden Triangle on a multi-day trip from Delhi. After an in-depth Agra tour and Taj Mahal visit, journey to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. See the Jal Mahal floating on Man Sagar Lake, learn about the astronomical tools at the Jantar Mantar observatory, and snap some photos of the intricate facade of Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of the Winds. 

Things to Know

• Choose between an Agra day trip or multi-day Golden Triangle tour from New Delhi.

• Enjoy the value of a small-group tour, or opt for the flexibility of a private tour with a personal guide.

• Day trips to Agra can last anywhere from 12 to 18 hours, depending on the option you choose.

• Most guided tours include hotel pickup and drop-off in New Delhi.

With three days in Jaipur, you’ll have enough time to see its most important palaces and temples, with time left over to explore the celebrated Amber Fort and take a day trip out to Pushkar or the Taj Mahal. Here’s one way to divide your time.

Day 1: Pink City

Spend your first day in Jaipur seeing the highlights of the Pink City, the old part of town named for its salmon hue. The most popular attraction in this part of town is the City Palace, where the titular royal family lives to this day. The part of the palace open to visitors includes courtyards, a royal hall with images of former maharajas, and a museum filled with royal ephemera. Next to the City Palace stands the Jantar Mantar, a royal observatory and UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with gargantuan astronomical instruments. Other Pink City highlights include the honeycomb-shaped Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds, featuring some 953 latticed windows. Round out your day in the Pink City with some shopping at popular Bapu Bazaar, known for handicrafts and footwear, and Johari Bazaar, a great place to pick up bangles and fabrics.

Day 2: Forts and Temples

On your second day, head out to the Amber area on the outskirts of Jaipur, where the star attraction is the 16th-century Amber Fort, a gargantuan structure made of red sandstone and white marble. Highlights of the fort include the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors), filled with tiny mirror shards in a mosaic pattern, and the zenana, a series of frescoed rooms once occupied by the king’s wives and concubines. Right below the fort sits the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing, which focuses on one of the area’s most important textile crafts.

After Amber, head back into Jaipur to visit some of its most important temples. Start with Galtaji, dedicated to the god of the sun, Surya. It's often nicknamed the Monkey Temple for the large primate community that lives on its grounds. Finish your day of sightseeing with a visit  to the Birla Mandir, a contemporary, white-marble temple dedicated to Vishnu and his consort Laxmi.

Day 3: The Taj Mahal or Pushkar

Spend your last day in the area on a day trip. If this is your only chance to visit the Taj Mahal in Agra, it’s worth traveling the five hours each way. For something slightly closer, consider heading to the holy town of Pushkar, about three hours away. A beautiful lake sits at the heart of this desert-oasis town, and large numbers of visitors come here annually to bathe in its holy waters. Pushkar is best-known as the site of an annual camel fair, and the town is also home to one of the only temples in the world dedicated to the Hindu creator god Brahma.

Two days in Darjeeling gives you enough time to take in most of the must-visits, from tea plantations to the toy train, with time left over to dig a little deeper into the local culture of the region. Here's how to plan your time.

Day 1: Darjeeling Highlights

**Morning:**Wake up before dawn and head up to Tiger Hill on the outskirts of town to watch the sunrise over the Himalayas; you may even be able to see Everest on clear days. Tiger Hill tours typically also include a visit to the Ghum Buddhist Monastery nearby. 

**Afternoon:**Spend your afternoon visiting one of Darjeeling's many tea estates, where you can learn everything about tea production, from planting to processing. Many tours include the chance to visit tea fields, see the various stages of tea processing, and taste different types of tea. For added convenience, opt for a tour that includes round-trip hotel transfers.

**Night:**On your first evening, head to Chowrasta (aka the Band Stand), one of Darjeeling's main squares, for some evening people watching. Lined with benches and with great views over the hills, this pedestrian-only area has plenty of restaurants to choose from once you’re ready for dinner.

Day 2: Spiritual Life, Toy Train, and Dinner with Locals

**Morning:**A religiously diverse city, Darjeeling has many monasteries, temples, churches, and mosques. Spend your second morning learning about the city's different traditions, with visits to places of worship such as the Mahakal Temple, the Japanese Pagoda, and St. Andrew’s Church; look for tours that stop at holy sites or customize one of your own.   

**Afternoon:**One of Darjeeling's most popular attractions, especially with kids, is its "toy train," a narrow-gauge, 19th-century train that chugs all the way to Ghum, the highest railway station in India. Just note that it can fill up fast, so make sure to prebook tickets to avoid disappointment.

**Night:**On your final evening, consider signing up for a dinner experience in the home of a local family. These sometimes include cooking demonstrations or even classes, but the focus is often more on cultural interchange and the chance to sample delicious, home-cooked North Indian fare.

With three days in Jaisalmer, you'll be able to explore the city's historic fort and mansions, overnight in the Thar Desert, and try out local food, and you’ll still have time left over to explore the historic Jain Temples in Osian. Here's how.

Day 1: Jaisalmer Fort and the Sam Sand Dunes

Start your Jaisalmer trip with a visit to the desert city's most important attraction: Jaisalmer Fort. Also known as the Golden Fort (Sonar Quila), this 12th-century fortress is a popular stop on most city tours, and a guide can help navigate its narrow lanes. Inside, you’ll find Hindu and Jain temples and historic homes, some of which have been converted into hotels or guesthouses. Later, make your way out to the Sam Sand Dunes in the Thar Desert for an overnight excursion; some tours stop at local villages along the way. Take a sunset camel ride followed by dinner and a live folk dance performances before calling it a night.

Day 2: Havelis and Food

Enjoy breakfast followed by a camel ride through the desert dunes before heading back to Jaisalmer and its Patwon Ki Haveli, the largest of a cluster of five old city mansions, or havelis, located near the Gopa Chowk entrance of Jaisalmer Fort. Dating to the 19th century, these intricate homes feature carved columns, arches, and balconies, along with frescoed murals and mirrorwork. Depending on how much time you spend at the havelis, you may want to head to nearby Gadi Sagar, a picturesque reservoir and a popular place for pedal boating to watch the sunset. When night falls, head back into town for a food-focused walking tour of the city, and fill up on local snacks before turning in for the night.

Day 3: Onwards to Osian and Beyond

On your last day, get up extra early and head to the town of Osian, a desert settlement about a 4-hour drive from Jaisalmer. Osian is famous for its ancient Hindu and Jain temples, most of which date from around the 8th to 11th century, including the Sachiya Mata goddess temple. While Osian can be done as a day trip from Jaisalmer, many visitors come here on their way to other Rajasthan cities, particularly Udaipur or Jodhpur. Some tour operators offer transfers from point A to point B between Jaisalmer and other cities, with guided visits to Osian along the way—an economical option given the long distances involved.

Three days in Udaipur will allow you not only to experience some of the city’s beautiful palaces and lakes, but will also leave you time to go out and explore some of the temples and forts in the surrounding area. Here’s how. 

Day 1:Highlights of Udaipur

Spend your first day in Udaipur checking out some of the city’s classic sights, many of which are near or directly on the banks of Lake Pichola in the center of town. Start with a visit to the sprawling City Palace complex, which features 11 interconnected palaces along with a museum and a sparkling gallery chock-full of fine European crystal. From here, head over to Jagdish Temple, right by the main entrance to the palace, perhaps stopping to shop at some of the many handicrafts boutiques that flank the road between the two attractions. Jagdish Temple is known for its intricate architecture, notably around 100 pillars carved with scenes from Indian mythology. In the afternoon, head out to Monsoon Palace, high on a hill on the edge of town; it’s a great place to watch the sunset over the city.

Day 2: Temples and Mansions

Start your second day with a trip out to Eklingji, a temple complex situated in the holy town of Kailashpuri, about 14 miles (22 kilometers) outside Udaipur. The site has around 100 temples of all sizes; most are made of marble or granite, and many feature beautiful carved exteriors dominated by carved arches and pillars. The oldest date back to the 10th century. Many are dedicated to Eklingji, a popular form of Lord Shiva that's long been venerated by the royal families of the area.

In the afternoon, make your way back into Udaipur to visit the Bagore ki Haveli, a grand haveli (city mansion) overlooking Lake Pichola. This 18th-century building features 100 or so rooms, a large number of which are decorated with period furniture. Others have been transformed into galleries full of ephemera (including what is allegedly the world's largest turban). Stay for a puppet show or dance performance, held here most evenings.

Day 3: Ancient Forts

The region around Udaipur is notable for its beautiful architecture and stately forts. Spend your last day exploring one of the most notable, the 15th-century Kumbhalgarh, one of six historic forts that collectively comprise the UNESCO World Heritage Hill Forts of Rajasthan. Kumbhalgarh is noteworthy for having the second-largest wall on earth and is surrounded by the protected Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary. Kumbhalgarh can easily be visited on a day trip and is usually combined with a stop at the Ranakpur Jain Temple, which was built around the same time as the fort. The temple's most notable feature is its 1,444 marble pillars, each of which features its own unique look.

Alternatively, head out to Chittorgarh, also one of the six Hill Forts of Rajasthan. Likely built in the seventh century, the fort is the largest in India, encompassing around 700 acres (283 hectares), and is big enough to merit an entire day exploring.

While most people associate the tiny coastal state of Goa with all-night beach parties, it’s also chock-full of glorious old colonial structures. The Portuguese influence over Goa—the last European colony in India—remains to this day, in the architecture, food, language, and traditions. Here’s where to experience Portuguese influence in Goa.   Sao Tome The Portuguese transferred their capital to the city of Panaji in 1759, which led to ample construction. While the city grew considerably in the centuries that followed, some of the older parts of town retain a distinct Portuguese flavor today. The atmospheric Sao Tome district is one such neighborhood: beautiful old houses with colorful exteriors and contrasting white trim mingle with celebrated public buildings such as the post office, formerly a tobacco trading house.

Fontainhas Also in Panaji, Fontainhas is another quintessentially Portuguese neighborhood that was reclaimed in the 18th century (many of the buildings here are from the early to mid-19th century). Highlights of this atmospheric area include the Chapel of Saint Sebastian, which houses a crucifix that once hung inside the Palace of the Inquisition in Old Goa (Velha Goa).

Basilica of Bom Jesus Before Panaji earned capital-city status, the capital of Portuguese India was situated in what’s now called Old Goa, originally built in the 1400s and later abandoned during a plague outbreak. Today it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its historic churches. The most famous of these is the Basilica of Bom Jesus, created at the turn of the 17th century by Florentine sculptor Giovanni Battista Foggini. This massive red church is among India’s oldest and holds the remains of St. Francis Xavier, Goa’s patron saint.

St. Catherine’s Cathedral (Sé Cathedral) The other main church in Old Goa, and certainly the most important in contemporary times, is St. Catherine’s Cathedral (Sé Cathedral), which was built at the end of the 16th century to commemorate Portugal’s military victory over Goa. It's full of old relics and religious art, and is the official seat of the archdiocese of Goa and Daman.   Fort Aguada For those with an interest in military history, Fort Aguada is worth a visit. It was built in 1612 and looks out over the Arabian Sea, just south of Sinquerim Beach. Prominent features include a long moat and a 4-story lighthouse—the largest of its kind in Asia—dating back to 1864.

Rishikesh is known for its ashrams, temples, and yoga, but it also offers some of North India's best outdoor activities. With two days in town, you'll be able to experience the best of Rishikesh's spiritual side and its outdoor adventures, too. Here's how.

Day 1: Spiritual Highlights

Morning: Start your morning off with a yoga class (this is the yoga capital of the world, after all). Afterward, grab breakfast and make your way over to the old Maharishi Mahesh Yogi ashram, known locally as the Beatles Ashram, in honor of its most famous guests.

Afternoon: In the afternoon, take a trip out to the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple on the outskirts of town. You’ll need to take a taxi to get here, and tours with guides are available—never a bad idea if you want to learn about the spiritual significance of the place and avoid any faux pas.

Night: When night begins to fall, head over to the Parmarth Niketan Ashram on the eastern banks of the Ganges for the evening aarti (prayer) ceremonies, which involve beautiful ritual singing and fire offerings. As with the Mahadev Temple, you’ll get the most out of your experience by going with a guide, particularly if you’re unfamiliar with local spiritual practices.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventure

Morning: Rishikesh has long been known as a whitewater-rafting hot spot, and taking a trip down the rapids of the Ganges River is a highlight for many guests. Just make sure to prebook as this experience is popular, and people from all over India come to Rishikesh specifically to raft.

Afternoon: Don't bother drying off after your raft trip; instead, head up to the beautiful Neer Waterfalls, set in the forest a short drive from Rishikesh. Accessible via a short hike, this waterfall is a great place to cool off, with cascading water leading into a shallow pool. Guided tours often include visits with locals in nearby Neer Village.

Night: In the evening, head back to your hotel to clean up before making your way back out for dinner. There are all sorts of great spots to eat in this vegetarian city, from hippie backpacker cafés to the famous Indian fare at Chotiwala. Consider joining a food tour if you want to try as many local treats as possible.

Three days in New Delhi will give you a good introduction to the city’s plethora of remarkable sights, from temples and tombs to mosques and markets. You’ll also have time to day trip to Agra, home to more glorious historic monuments, most notably the Taj Mahal. Here’s how to make the most of your 3-day trip to Delhi.

Day 1: Go Back in Time

The city now known as Delhi is actually an amalgamation of numerous older cities and villages, the oldest of which date back to the 12th century, with the Muslim conquest of the area. As a result, the capital has many old sites of equal importance, from the ancient, UNESCO World Heritage–listed ruins of the Qutub Minar and the adjacent Mehrauli Archaeological Park to the broad British-designed avenues and stately buildings in the central area known as New Delhi. You can easily devote a full day to exploring just these areas, though because Delhi is so spread out, it’s advisable to either sign up for a full-day sightseeing tour or get a ticket for a hop-on hop-off tour bus. Along with the Qutub Minar, don’t miss the city’s other two UNESCO-recognized sites: Humayun’s Tomb and Old Delhi’s Lal Qila (Red Fort).

Day 2: Behold the Taj Mahal

Now that you have some context from spending your first day learning about Northern Indian history in Delhi, it’s time for a day trip to Agra, a short drive or train ride from the capital. The city is best known as the home of India’s star attraction, the spectacular white-marble Taj Mahal—an absolute must-visit. While in town, don’t miss the UNESCO-listed Agra Fort, where the Taj Mahal’s creator, Shah Jahan, was held captive by his own son. Other top sights include Mehtab Bagh, gardens that face the Taj and offer stunning views, and the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, a smaller (and older) white-marble tomb frequently referred to as Baby Taj. Some day tours to Agra include stops at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Fatehpur Sikri, a short-lived Mughal capital that was abandoned due to lack of water, and the Hindu holy town of Mathura, the alleged birthplace of Lord Krishna.

Day 3: Experience Delhi Life Today

After two days of history, today experience the city as its millions of inhabitants do every day. If you’re interested in food, there are plenty of spots to sample traditional North Indian cuisine and Delhi’s famous street snacks, or chaat —but joining a food tour can help facilitate finding the best (and safest) eats. If shopping is more up your alley, check out local markets, from the always-busy Lajpat Nagar Central Market to the tourist-friendly Dilli Haat, both popular stops on Delhi shopping tours. And if you’re interested in learning about the spiritual side of the city, there are plenty of temples, mosques, and churches across the capital, from East Delhi’s gargantuan Swaminarayan Akshardham complex to the Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, or Sikh temple. The latter is located right by Central Delhi’s Connaught Place, a busy commercial hub with a good variety of restaurants and a popular place to grab dinner.

Deep in the desert state of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer is a magical spot, with an imposing old fort that resembles a sandcastle and beautiful city mansions, all against the backdrop of the golden Thar Desert. Jaisalmer is also a compact city, making it possible to experience the best it has to offer in just one day. Here’s how.

Morning: Jaisalmer Fort

Start your morning off with a visit to Jaisalmer's star attraction: Jaisalmer Fort (also known as Sonar Qila, or Golden Fort). This towering sandstone structure is the second-oldest fort in the state of Rajasthan, dating to the middle of the 12th century, and it's been inhabited for centuries, with numerous Hindu and Jain temples, homes, and even a few guesthouses within its ramparts. The Jaisalmer Fort Palace Museum is a must-visit. Most Jaisalmer tours stop here, and visiting with a guide will make finding your way around much easier.

Afternoon: Historic Havelis

Stick around the fort for lunch before making your way out to the Patwon Ki Haveli, the largest in a group of five havelis (old city mansions) situated near the fort’s Gopa Chowk entrance; most full-day tours of the city head straight here after visiting the fort. The havelis were constructed in the 19th century by a family of wealthy Jain merchants, and each is built in its own original style. Inside, you’ll find intricately carved columns, arches, and balconies paired with lots of mirror work and intricate frescoes.

Night: Sunset and Dinner in the Desert

While many visitors to Jaisalmer opt to stay in the desert overnight, you can still get a taste of the Thar with only one day in the city. The best way to do this is by joining an evening excursion out to Sam Sand Dunes, about an hour's drive out of town. It's an incredible spot to watch the sun set over the expansive desert, and most visitors opt to take in the scenery from atop a camel. Most evening excursions include a traditional Rajasthani dinner right in the desert, complete with a performance of folk dancing and music.

Two days in holy Varanasi give you enough time to explore the most important Hindu and Buddhist sights and visit a local silk-producing village. Here’s how to maximize your time in the sacred city.

Day 1: Spiritual Varanasi

Morning: Rise before dawn for a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River; you’ll travel past riverside ghats and observe pilgrims performing early-morning rituals. Then, take a guided walking tour of Varanasi Old Town to learn about Hindu traditions and see ancient temples.

Afternoon: In the afternoon, head out to the most important temple in Varanasi; Golden Temple (Kashi Vishwanath), which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The best way visit the temple as part of a walking tour, which offers a more intimate glimpse into Varanasi Old Town than you’d get from a coach or car.

Night: Make your way to Dashashwamedh Ghat before dusk to observe the evening Aarti ritual, which starts right after nightfall. During this moving evening prayer ceremony, local priests use lanterns to give fire offerings to the Ganges River, while religious music plays in the background.

Day 2: Surrounding Areas

Morning: Devote the first half of your day to visiting the villages that surround Varanasi on a half-day tour, most of which stop at the villages of Chiraigaon and Sarai Mohana, which is celebrated for its silk production. Here, you’ll have time to shop for the famous Banarasi saris.

Afternoon: In the afternoon, make your way to Sarnath, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in India. Tours include hassle-free transfers and shed light on significant stupas such as the Dhamek Stupa, where Buddha allegedly gave his first sermon following enlightenment.

Night: While most people associate Varanasi with religion, it's also an important center for Indian classical music. A great way to spend your last night in town is to watch a classical music and dance performance, during which you'll hear a range of local instruments.

In the heart of Rajasthan's Thar Desert, the golden city of Jaisalmer is home to elegant old mansions, beautiful desertscapes, and a fairy-tale fort. With two days in town, you'll be able to take in the highlights at a relaxed pace and go on a camel safari in the desert. Follow this itinerary to optimize your time.

Day 1: Jaisalmer Fort and Overnight in the Desert

Morning: Dedicate your first morning to exploring the ramparts of the 12th-century Jaisalmer Fort, the city's most important attraction and a popular stop on city tours. Inside, you'll find meandering little alleys dotted with old homes, temples, and even guesthouses, plus the Jaisalmer Fort Palace Museum, full of historic artifacts.

Afternoon: After visiting the fort, stop for lunch before joining an overnight excursion out to the Sam Sand Dunes in the Thar Desert. Some tours stop in traditional villages along the way, leaving plenty of time to get to the desert dunes in time for a sunset camel ride.

Night: After sunset, you’ll likely have a bit of time to stargaze while your hosts prepare a traditional Rajasthani meal for you. When dinner is ready, sit down and dig in while you watch traditional folk dance performances set to live music.

Day 2: Desert, Havelis, and Food

Morning: On your second morning, wake up bright and early (before temperatures get too high) for breakfast and a second camel ride, included in most overnight safari tours. Then head back to Jaisalmer to freshen up for your afternoon adventures ahead.

Afternoon: In the afternoon, head to Patwon Ki Haveli, a 19th-century city mansion turned museum full of beautiful frescos and intricately carved columns and arches. It's one of five havelis (traditional Indian mansions) clustered together near the Gopa Chowk gate of Jaisalmer Fort; all are open for visitors to explore at their leisure, and many city tours stop at the complex.

Night: Devote your last evening to local cuisine, either dining at one of the city's many rooftop restaurants or heading out a guided food tour. If you opt for the latter, you'll get the chance to try all sorts of snacky street foods, from kachoris (lentil-stuffed deep-fried pockets) to delicious local sweets.

With its whitewashed palaces and temples set against a backdrop of glimmering lakes, it’s no wonder that Udaipur is often considered one of the most romantic places in Rajasthan, if not India. Here’s how to make the most of one day in the City of Lakes.  

Morning: Royals and Religion

Start your morning off with a visit to the city's best-known place of worship: the three-story Jagdish Temple. Dating back to 1651, this gorgeous temple features around 100 pillars intricately carved with scenes from Hindu mythology.

Just up the road from the temple stands one of Udaipur’s most important attractions: the sprawling City Palace, the largest in the state. The complex consists of 11 palaces built over a period of four and a half centuries, all of which are interconnected by passageways. Highlights include the City Palace Museum, featuring traditional artwork, royal regalia, and weaponry.

Afternoon: Monsoon Palace

After visiting the temple, stop for a quick lunch at one of the restaurants at the City Palace before making your way to the outskirts of town to visit Sajjangarh, aka Monsoon Palace, a 19th-century palace perched on a hill overlooking the city and its lakes. This 9-story structure was originally intended to be an astrological center, but instead became more of a destination for watching monsoon clouds, hence its nickname. It's also a great place to check out the sunset over the city.

Night: Dinner on the Lake

Once the sun has set, embark on a romantic dinner cruise on Lake Pichola. While some travelers enjoy simply cruising on the waters, for something special, make your way out to Jag Mandir Palace (aka Lake Garden Palace), situated on an island in the lake. Here you can not only experience the island's history and architecture, but also opt for a buffet dinner served right in the middle of the lake.

Amritsar is full of great things to discover, beyond the world-famous Golden Temple. With three days in the city, you’ll have time to explore its temples and forts, experience rural settings, and sample different varieties of Punjabi food—you can even try your hand at cooking some yourself. Here’s how to arrange your time.

Day 1: The Best of Amritsar

Devote your first day to Amritsar’s best-known attractions. Start with the Golden Temple, one of the most important Sikh places of worship on Earth. Most city tours stop here, and while it’s easy to visit independently, going with a guide is a great way to deepen your knowledge of the Sikh faith. After your visit, sample the city’s famous street food, especially local favorite chole kulcha (soft flatbread served with spiced chickpeas). Join a food tour if you’re worried about picking out the best, safest, cleanest places to eat. Finally, make your way to Wagah at the border with Pakistan to witness the famous border-closing ceremony, then have dinner at Sadda Pind, a reproduction Punjabi village attraction.

Day 2: A Deeper Dive

Although Tarn Taran isn't as famous as the Golden Temple, this gurdwara (Sikh temple) is nevertheless worth visiting for its striking, 16th-century architecture. Make this your first stop in the morning; some tours combine a trip to the temple with visits to nearby rural villages. In the afternoon, head out for some shopping and people watching in the markets of Old Amritsar, either independently or with a guide who can lead you to the best deals. Here you'll see fabrics, jewelry, housewares, and religious items, and it's a great place to pick up low-cost souvenirs. In the evening, make your way back to the Golden Temple, where you can watch the ceremonial procession storing the Sikh holy book for the evening.

Day 3: Local Life

On your last morning, join a tour to visit a local farm and see how crops are raised, cows are milked, and bread is baked, the Punjabi way. Continue your immersive experience in the afternoon with a cooking class in the home of a local, where you’ll prepare lunch and learn the art of Indian cooking along the way. Alternatively, head to a local spa for a traditional Ayurvedic massage treatment. In the evening, wrap up your stay with a 7D sound-and-light show at Gobindgarh Fort.

With three days in Bangalore, you can not only check out some of the city’s most fabulous temples, gardens, and palaces, but you’ll also have time left over to go on a day trip or two. Here’s how to plan a 3-day trip to the city.

Day 1: Palaces and Garden s

Spend your first day familiarizing yourself with some of Bangalore’s most important attractions. Start with Tipu Sultan’s Palace, an 18th-century structure made of teakwood. While the exteriors themselves make the palace worth a visit, the interiors are the true star here. See gorgeous old frescoes, royal memorabilia, and a copy of Tipu's Tiger, an automaton toy depicting a tiger devouring a soldier (the original is in a museum in London). Then stop by the lovely Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, with walking paths, a lake, and a 19th-century glass house. From here, make your way over to Bangalore Palace, a huge complex that mixes Tudor, Gothic, Victorian, and neoclassical architecture. Some of the rooms here are open to visitors, while part of the palace still serves as a royal residence.

Day 2: Day Trip to Mysore

Get an early start on your second day to visit Mysore, 90 miles (145 kilometers) from Bangalore. The city is known as the birthplace of Ashtanga yoga, and many travelers visit to study yoga. However, the star attraction is Mysore Palace, an early 20th-century Indo-Saracenic palace with artwork and elegant royal interiors. Other local attractions include the Chamundeshwari Temple, with Dravidian architecture; the neo-Gothic St. Philomena's Cathedral; and the sprawling Brindavan Gardens, terraced gardens with regular fountain shows. Don’t leave town without sampling some of the city’s best-known culinary delicacies, including Mysore pak, a famous sweet made from ghee, sugar, and gram flour, and the Mysore masala dosa, a crepe with spicy chutney and mild seasoned potatoes.

Day 3: Temples

Bangalore and the surrounding area is full of temples old and new; devote your third day to checking out some of the finest. These include the 16th-century Bull Temple (Dodda Ganeshana Gudi), named for its gargantuan statue of Nandi, the bovine steed of Lord Shiva. Another popular temple, the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) Temple is a modern complex high on a hillside. Its popular Higher Taste vegetarian restaurant is a great option for lunch. Alternatively, take a day trip out to two of the finest temples in the region: the Chennakesava Temple, in the town of Somnathpur, and the temples of Talakadu. The Chennakesava Temple dates to the 13th century and features three shrines and art-covered ceilings. Talakadu includes dozens of temples, and while many were submerged in sand (due to a curse, as the story goes), a few have been excavated and are popular pilgrimage sites.

With three days in Mumbai, you’ll have time enough to really get a feel for the city, from its blockbuster tourist sights to its thriving houses of worship, with plenty of time to shop, sample local food, and visit surrounding historic attractions. Here’s one way to do it.

Day 1: The Best of Central Mumbai

Spend your first day exploring the sights of central and southern Mumbai. Start at Mahalaxmi Temple, one of the most important Hindu temples in the city. Then stop by Dhobi Ghat to take a few photos of the world’s largest laundry operation before continuing to Haji Ali, a mosque and Sufi shrine situated at the end of a long pier jutting into the sea. From here, head south to the popular flea market Chor Bazaar, a great place for people watching, before visiting Mani Bhavan, a museum dedicated to Gandhi and the Indian Independence Movement. Continue on to the Hanging Gardens, a popular park full of intricate topiary; try to make it in time to watch the sunset over the sea. Finish your evening at nearby Chowpatty Beach, a popular coastal hangout spot best known for its ample street-food stalls and a great place to graze for dinner.

Day 2: Heritage and Food

Spend your second day delving deeper into southern Mumbai, visiting popular architectural sights such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station, one of the world’s finest examples of Indo-Saracenic architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also visit the Bombay High Court, another fine example of colonial architecture, before making your way to the Colaba neighborhood in the heart of touristy Mumbai. From here, hop a ferry to Elephanta Island to see the Elephanta Caves, a collection of Buddhist and Hindu rock-hewn caves dating to the seventh century. Alternatively, spend your afternoon shopping at the sprawling Crawford Market or opt for a cooking class where you can learn to make South Indian dishes. Either way, sample street food favorites such as puffed-rice bhel puri and pav bhaji, spiced potato curry.

Day 3: A Day in the Caves

For your final day, head out of town to visit area ancient cave temples. A nearby option is the Kanheri Caves in Sanjay Gandhi National Park, 109 basalt caves carved between the first century BC and the 10th century AD that served as Buddhist monastic dwellings. Alternatively, head farther afield to the Bhaja and Karla Caves, two complexes about 20 minutes apart by car. Each boasts rock-hewn cave structures dominated by Buddhist shrines and monastic dwellings, many dating back to around the first century BC. Return to Mumbai for a final dinner of South Indian cuisine, either in a restaurant or gathered from your favorite street-food stalls.

If you’re willing to wake up early, you can pack a lot into just one day in Darjeeling. You’ll have time to watch the sunrise over the Himalayas, learn all about tea production, and spend time immersing yourself in Indian culture. Here’s how to make the most out of 24 hours in Darjeeling.

Morning: Tiger Hill and Around

Start your day in Darjeeling bright and early with a trip up to nearby Tiger Hill to watch the sunrise over the Himalayas. Because of the hill's position, you can see select peaks illuminated by the early morning sun, and on clear days, Mount Everest is visible. Most visitors come here on private tours that include predawn hotel pickups and return transfers. Some tours also  include postsunrise visits to the nearby Ghum Monastery, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery, followed by a stop to look at the Batasia Loop, a spiral railway designed to make getting up the steep hill below Ghum more manageable.

Afternoon: Darjeeling Tea

Darjeeling is known the world over for its fine teas, and there are plenty of opportunities to learn about the tea-production process at one of the area's many tea estates. Tours generally start with visits to tea fields, followed by the chance to learn about how tea leaves are processed; some even allow visitors to look right out on the factory floor. Tea tours typically wrap up with tea-tasting opportunities. While some plantations allow walk-in visitors, you can save yourself a lot of hassle by prebooking a tea tour, which includes round-trip transportation from your Darjeeling hotel. 

Evening: Dine with Locals

While Darjeeling is full of restaurants serving up fresh Indian and Tibetan fare, for something a bit more culturally immersive, consider spending your last night in town attending a cooking demonstration or dinner in the home of a local family. These experiences are popular throughout India, and though they vary quite a bit depending on your hosts, more often than not they include the chance to learn about what goes into making a (usually vegetarian) North Indian meal. You’ll also get the chance to learn about life in Darjeeling from locals and maybe even get some insider tips on off-the-beaten path spots to visit.

Three days in Varanasi gives you plenty of time to tick off important spiritual attractions, learn to cook an Indian meal, and explore further afield on a visit local villages. You’ll even have time for a day trip to Prayagraj, formerly Allahabad. Here’s how:

Day 1: Essential Varanasi

Devote your first day in Varanasi to the city’s essential sights. Start with an early-morning boat ride on the Ganges River, which reveals Hindu pilgrims performing sunrise prayers and rituals. After your boat ride, take an early-morning tour of old Varanasi with a local guide, during which you’ll learn the history of Dasaswamedh Ghat and Talang Swami Ashram. Spend the afternoon visiting some of the city’s holiest spots, which include Golden Temple (Kashi Vishwanath); it's believed that those who make a pilgrimage here gain liberation from the karmic cycle of death and rebirth. In the evening, head down to Dashashwamedh Ghat to watch the evening Aarti, an atmospheric ceremony during which priests make offerings to the Ganges River.

Day 2: Sarnath and Village Life

Dedicate your second day to exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sarnath, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in India, on a half-day tour. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, where the Buddha is reputed to have giver his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, and the Sarnath Archeological Museum, which houses almost 7,000 Buddhist artifacts. In the afternoon, head out on a tour of Varanasi’s rural villages; most tours stop at the town of Sarai Mohana, a great place to shop for silk saris, and Chiraigaon, where visitors can learn about rural life. Top off your day of exploration with a cooking class and dinner in a local home before turning in for the night.

Day 3: Day trip to Prayagraj

Spend your final day in Prayagraj, a 3-hour drive from Varanasi. Formerly known as Allahabad, Prayagraj is the second-oldest inhabited city in India and an important pilgrimage site; it’s also one of four destinations for Kumbh Mela, the largest spiritual gathering in the world. Start your day with a visit to the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati Rivers, before heading to the Allahabad Fort, a 16th-century Mughal Fort with great riverside views. Other popular attractions include the Anand Bhavan, an old museum that was once the headquarters of the Indian National Congress, which is worth a stop for anyone interested in political history. Finish your day with a visit to Khusro Bagh, a beautifully-manicured Mughal garden with a number of well-preserved Mughal mausoleums.

The Punjabi city of Amritsar is known for its great food and beautiful Golden Temple, and it’s a popular base for those who want to see the famous border-closing ceremonies in nearby Wagah. With two days in the city, you can see all the highlights and have time left over for some off-the-beaten-path experiences. Here’s how to plan your time.

Day 1: Amritsari Highlights

**Morning:**Get up early and make your way to the Golden Temple, Amritsar’s best-known attraction and one of the most important places of Sikh pilgrimage on Earth. Like all gurdwaras (Sikh temples), the Golden Temple is welcoming to visitors of all faiths, but going with a guide is a good way to deepen your understanding.

**Afternoon:**In the afternoon, skip a sit-down lunch and instead try out some of Amritsar’s famous street food. Joining an organized food walk is ideal, as a local guide can lead you to the best and most hygienic places to eat in town while explaining dishes and ingredients.

**Night:**Not far from Amritsar is the town of Wagah, where one of the few official border crossings between India and Pakistan is located. Here you can observe the sunset closing ceremony, which involves performative marches and music. Afterwards, head to Sadda Pind, a reproduction Punjabi village where you can watch folk performances and dine on traditional food.

Day 2: Off the Beaten Path

**Morning:**Not far from the Golden Temple sits Tarn Taran, a gurdwara founded in 1590. Spend your second morning learning about Sikhism in this beautiful temple; some tours even include the chance to visit nearby villages to immerse yourself in rural life.

**Afternoon:**In the afternoon, treat yourself to a little rest and relaxation with a visit to a spa; many offer traditional Ayurvedic treatments supervised by qualified Ayurvedic doctors. Alternatively, if you didn't get enough food-related fun on your first day, sign up for a cooking class held in a local family home.

**Night:**Wrap up your evening with a visit to the Gobindgarh Fort, a historic fort with great views over the city. It's best after dark, when the Sher-e-Punjab 7D sound-and-light show is staged. The fort also features restaurants, games, museums, and even folk dance performances.

With beautiful palaces, sprawling gardens, and a great nightlife scene, Bangalore offers an enticing mix of old and new. If you have two days in the Garden City, you can see some of its top attractions and pay a visit to nearby Mysore. Here's how.

Day 1: Palaces and Gardens

**Morning:**Start your day off with a morning stroll in Lalbagh Botanical Garden, one of Bangalore’s most popular attractions, featuring pathways, a lake, and a 1889 glass house. From here, it’s a short walk over to Tipu Sultan’s Palace, an 18th-century summer palace built entirely of teakwood, with historical artifacts and beautiful frescoes adorning its interiors.

**Afternoon:**In the afternoon, make your way up to the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) Temple, a modern temple complex on a hilltop overlooking the city. Stop for lunch at the Higher Taste, the temple’s vegetarian buffet restaurant, and explore the grounds a bit before heading over to Bangalore Palace, with its elegant facade and regal interiors.

**Night:**Spend your first evening checking out Bangalore’s nightlife scene by joining a pub crawl or heading out to one of the city’s clubs or live music venues. Alternatively, join a food tour and sample some of Bangalore’s many culinary delights.  

Day 2: Day Trip to Mysore

**Morning:**Get an early start on your second day to visit the city of Mysore, aka Mysuru, 90 miles (145 kilometers) from Bangalore. Visit the Chamundeshwari Temple, an important temple dedicated the goddess Durga that's believed to date to the 12th century (though its current incarnation is from the 1600s).

**Afternoon:**In the afternoon, visit the city’s most famous attraction: Amba Vilas Palace, more commonly known as Mysore Palace. This historic royal residence was built at the turn of the 20th century to replace an older palace destroyed by fire and features Indo-Saracenic exteriors and painting-filled interiors.

**Night:**Devote your last evening to trying some of Mysore’s most popular culinary items. Don’t miss the chance to sample a Mysore masala dosa, a crepe filled with seasoned potatoes and a spicy chutney. For dessert opt for Mysore pak, a famous local sweet made from ghee, sugar, and gram flour.

With three days in Rishikesh, you’ll have plenty of time to hit up the highlights, from the temples and ashrams along the banks of the Ganges River to the jungles on the outskirts of town. You’ll even have time to get active, whether it’s practicing yoga, white-water rafting, or learning to cook Indian fare. Here’s how to make the most of your time.

Day 1: City of Seekers

Spend your first day exploring the spiritual side of Rishikesh. Start your day with a yoga class, then visit the former ashram of the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, known locally as the Beatles Ashram as the Fab Four once stayed here. Now open to the public, the ashram can easily be visited independently or as part of a tour (going with a guide is a good idea if you want to learn more about the space, as there’s not much in terms of signposting). Next, book a taxi or tour to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, on the outskirts of town, then return to Rishikesh before sunset to attend the evening aarti (prayer) ceremonies on the banks of the Ganges River.

Day 2: Water Adventures

Spend your second day enjoying the outdoors in Rishikesh: go ziplining, plan a multi-day trek, or do what the area is best-known for: white-water rafting on the Ganges River. Other area highlights include Neer Waterfalls, in the forest just outside of the city. A short trek will get you right to the falls, which have a pool popular for wading and cooling off. In the evening, head back to town for dinner; choose one of the many restaurants in town, or join a food walk to immerse yourself in the local culinary scene.

Day 3: Welcome to the Jungle

Not far from Rishikesh is Rajaji National Park, a quiet, well-maintained park that's home to boars, deer, peacocks (India's national bird), and elephants, though it's best-known as one of the few places in the state of Uttarakhand where you might spot a tiger in the wild. On your final day, grab your camera and take a jungle safari with a local guide who can help you spot wildlife. Back in Rishikesh, finish your day with a bit more yoga, some souvenir shopping, or, for a particularly memorable experience, a cooking class, where you'll get the chance to make (and eat) vegetarian Indian mainstays.

As well as housing a string of historical must-sees, the sprawling Indian city of Kolkata—formerly known as Calcutta—has plenty more up its sleeve, from river cruises and ambient temples to literary quarters, hectic markets, and gritty backstreets. Here are our tips for discovering West Bengal’s multifaceted capital in two jam-packed days.

Day 1: Hit the Sights and Nighttime Scene

**Morning:**Begin by exploring Kolkata’s top landmarks, from the Victorian buildings from its time as the British Raj capital to recently built attractions. Take a half- or full-day tour of must-sees such as the Victoria Memorial and Writer’s Building, visit the Parshwanath Jain Temple, and view the Howrah Bridge across the River Hooghly.

**Afternoon:**With the star sights covered, experience the “real” Kolkata: the poorer neighborhoods synonymous with the city. Guided slum tours take in areas normally overlooked by visitors, while tours of the Mother House—once the headquarters of the charity-giving Catholic nun Mother Teresa—reveal how her care for Kolkata’s poor continues today.

**Night:**Now’s the time to unwind and discover the city’s culinary scene and nighttime buzz. Head out on a guided evening food walk to sample local snacks and Bengali dishes in the popular haunts of Park Street and College Street. Be sure to arrive hungry—most tours include generous tastings.

Day 2: Backstreets, Bazaars, and Culture

**Morning:**Go off-grid today and lose yourself in Kolkata’s hectic markets. Choose a tour that incorporates the maze-like New Market, Burra Bazaar (Burrabazar), and flower market. Some market-tour options also cover sights missed by standard itineraries, such as Princep Ghat and a Hooghly ferry ride, to give you a wider take on the city.

**Afternoon:**Explore Kolkata’s multifaith heritage with a tour of its eclectic religious sites, including the Hindu Dakshineswar Kali temple and Nakhoda Mosque. Alternatively, a guided walk along bookstall-lined College Street showcases Kolkata’s literary leanings, while a tour of Black Town—historically home to wealthy Bengali residents—spotlights its mansions and courtyards.

**Night:**Conclude your Kolkata stay with a sundown River Hooghly cruise: passing temples, markets, ghats—flights of steps leading to the river—and the Howrah Bridge, all illuminated by the sunset. For another memorable finale, book a dining experience at a local’s home and savor a home-cooked meal as you chat about Kolkata life.

Goa is a multifaceted state, with everything from beaches and parties to gorgeous interior jungles and waterfalls, not to mention Portuguese colonial architecture. With three days in the state, here’s what you can see and do.

Day 1: Portuguese Goa

Goa was a Portuguese colony until 1961, and the state retains much of its Portuguese heritage to this day. The two best places to see Goa’s Portuguese architectural legacy are Old Goa (Velha Goa), which was the capital of Goa until the bubonic plague caused the population to flee to Panaji (Panjim) to set up a new capital, and Panaji itself. Old Goa is best-known for its churches, notably the Basilica of Bom Jesus, where the patron saint of Goa, Francis Xavier, is interred. Nearby, St. Catherine’s Cathedral (Sé Cathedral) attracts visitors with centuries of art and religious artifacts. Not far from Old Goa, the capital city of Panaji has two noteworthy Portuguese neighborhoods: Fontainhas and Sao Tome, adjacent districts full of colorful old houses and public buildings.

Day 2: Quintessential Goa: Beaches and Nightlife

Beach time is on the itineraries of most visitors to Goa, and no wonder—this coastal state features mile upon mile of beautiful shoreline, from red sandy beaches up north to beaches that take on a whiter hue, such as Palolem, down south. Popular options include Anjuna, Morjim, and Arambol, all of which have more of a hippie vibe, while Candolim and Sinquerim are quiet and close to Calangute, the busy hub of touristy north Goa. When you’re ready for some activity, get out on the water with a cruise. Options include dolphin-spotting adventures, kayak river trips, and sunset river cruises complete with live music and dance performances. In the evening, to experience Goa’s famous nightlife, head to the popular nightclub Tito’s on Baga Beach for Bollywood sounds or clubs in the northern villages of Anjuna and Vagator for homegrown trance music.

Day 3: Day Trip to Dudhsagar Falls and a Spice Plantation

On your final day in Goa, experience the natural beauty of the state’s interior. First, head inland to Dudhsagar Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in the country at 1,017 feet (310 meters). Its name means "sea of milk," appropriate given the opaque white hue of its waters, and many visitors opt to hike to the top for great views. Just remember to pack a swimsuit: The pool at the base of the falls is the perfect spot for cooling off. Most travelers visit the falls as part of a group tour, some of which also stop at a local spice plantation in the village of Ponda for lunch and spice shopping. Take a guided walk around the plantation to learn about the history of spices in India and see what kitchen favorites such as cardamom, nutmeg, black pepper, and cinnamon actually look like when they're growing. Return to Panaji and end your trip with a traditional Goan or Portuguese dinner of fresh seafood at the local restaurant of your choice.

With three days in Kochi, you'll have plenty of time to visit colonial Fort Cochin, take a houseboat trip through Kerala's picturesque backwaters, and still have time left over to either explore the tea plantations of Munnar or the archaeological ruins of Pattanam. Here's how to make the most of your time.

Day 1: Historic Fort Cochin

Spend your first day in Kochi exploring the adjacent historic areas of Fort Cochin and Mattancherry. Mattancherry is best-known for 16th-century Mattancherry Palace, aka the Dutch Palace, which houses frescoes and regal art and artifacts. From here it’s a short walk to the Paradesi Synagogue, also dating to the 16th century and the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth. Next, head to Fort Cochin to visit the oldest church in India, St. Francis Church, and the nearby Dutch Cemetery, believed to be the oldest graveyard in the country. Make a stop at the beautiful Santa Cruz Basilica before making your way over to the shore for a photo op with the city’s famous Chinese fishing nets as the sun sets into the sea. Top off your first evening with a traditional Kathakali dance performance, or opt for a package that also includes a Keralan dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Beautiful Backwaters

Devote your second day to a quintessential Kerala experience: a cruise on the backwaters. Most cruises depart from the town of Alleppey, an easy drive from Kochi, and are often staged on kettuvallam, traditional houseboats made of coir (coconut fiber). These cruises often go deep into the state’s extensive network of waterways, passing jungles, rice paddies, and traditional villages along the way. Lunch is often included and is generally typical of the region, with rice, coconut-based curries, and fish. While some backwaters cruises span a few days, half- and full-day packages that include transportation from Kochi are also available.

Day 3: Hill Stations or History

If you managed to see all you want to in Kochi on your first day, spend your final day participating in another day trip. Get up early to visit to the tea-plantation town of Munnar, where high elevation results in lower temperatures. Most tours include tea-factory visits, and some stop at the tea museum. Another popular option—and closer to town—is Pattanam, which many archaeologists believe was once the ancient port town of Muziris. Recent excavations show evidence of settlements as early as 1000 BC. Either way, return to Kochi in time to top off your trip with a South Indian dinner in the food-centric Fort Cochin neighborhood.

A portmanteau of Hollywood and Bombay (the former name of Mumbai), Bollywood refers to India’s Hindi-language film industry. For many travelers, the chance to experience Bollywood culture is one of the top reasons to visit Mumbai. Fortunately, ample Bollywood-specific tours and attractions welcome curious visitors with open arms.

What Is Bollywood? Bollywood films span genres, though most have a few common characteristics that distinguish them from Hollywood films, beyond their use of the Hindustani language. For one, they can be quite long and often include an intermission in the middle. They also tend to feature multiple song-and-dance breaks, which sometimes advance the storyline—but sometimes are just plain entertaining. Most actors simply lip-synch their songs, with the actual voices belonging to a handful of professional vocalists known as playback singers.

Where to Go

• Bandstand Promenade: Though the Bandstand Promenade’s Hollywood-esque Walk of the Stars has been removed, many of Bollywood’s top stars still live in the area, and if you hang around long enough you may just spot one.
• Colaba: The hub of tourist activity in Mumbai, local scouts often head straight to Colaba to seek out foreigners to act as extras.
• Film City: This gargantuan film studio complex has been a premier Bollywood shooting location since the 1970s.
• Juhu: A popular filming venue, this upscale coastal neighborhood is home to many of India’s top movie stars.
• Regal Cinema: The art-deco Regal Cinema is one of the oldest movie theaters in town and is a great place to see Bollywood films.
• S.J. Studios: Many of Bollywood’s most famous films have been shot at this studio.

  How to Go Experiencing Bollywood in Mumbai is best done with a guide or organized tour, especially as most film studios are actively used year-round and don’t allow people to just wander in. Most tours visit Film City, though some head to other locations, such as S. J. Studios—and a few do both. Most tours make at least a cursory stop in one of the neighborhoods where a lot of Bollywood stars live, and some even offer little extras such as dance lessons. If you dream of gracing the silver screen, you’re on their own—but hanging out in Colaba just might help you catch the eye of a local casting agent!