Ultimate 1 Month India Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See

Dive into my ultimate India Itinerary, a one-month journey for people looking for the best things to do & see in this incredible country over 30 days.

A journey through India embodies the raw, authentic, and beautifully contradictory elements of travel that got me hooked all those years back. Since my first trip in 2018, I’ve visited India multiple times & constantly find myself coming back. My goal with this blog post is to share a less-popular India travel route that I believe is one of the best ways that you can see the country in one month.

Starting in the hustle and bustle of Mumbai, you’ll journey through the Rajasthani desert, witness the beauty of the Taj Mahal, and trek in the sublime Himalayan foothills in Rishikesh before finishing in holy Varanasi: The Oldest City on Earth!

Be warned; this India travel itinerary is fast-paced! It’s not designed to be a luxury vacation or an idyllic getaway. I want you to leave exhausted, yet renewed and with a lasting, refined sense of the word travel. India, for all its flaws, harbors a thousand wonders which of a few, I’m sure, will be safely embedded in your soul. Surrender to the experience and embrace the moment so that when you look back all those years later, a new part of you comes clawing back at each living memory, forever in your heart.

The Ultimate India Itinerary: Day By Day Travel Guide

Here's the day-by-day breakdown of this 1 month India itinerary. This is best served as a general guide to inspiration for adventures and experiences as you go so you can carve your own route through India.

Day 1-3: Mumbai

This India travel route begins in the Bollywood capital; Mumbai. I chose Mumbai as the starting point for this journey because often, the cheapest flights land here, at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.

Once you arrive, stash your bags and get exploring. There's so much to see and do in Mumbai! Below are some highlights you should add to your list.

Tip 1: Install Uber before landing at the airport. There is a dedicated "Uber" pick-up point just outside of arrivals where you can hail a driver to take you to your accommodation.

Explore Colaba

Colaba is the tourist district of Mumbai and home to some of the city's best attractions. The best things to do in this amazing Indian district include visiting the Shivaji Museum, Jehangir Art Gallery, and the famous Leopold Cafe from the book Shantaram.

You can get lost in the beating heart of Colaba's streets, falling in love with its unique charm and scenic sites.

Eat World-Renowned Cuisine & Incredible Street Food

To be completely honest with you, after tasting the street food and cuisine on offer in Mumba's Dhabas, nothing in India compared.

In other words, It's safe to say that Mumbai has the best food in India. Below are some spots that you must eat at. I guarantee you'll remember it for the rest of your life!

• Pancham Puriwala (get the deluxe Thali, we had it like 2 times)
• Dara Singh Thali at Mini Punjab
• Cannon Pav Bhaji (near the CST station gate 3.
• Leopold Cafe (for fans of Shantaram)

Check Out the Thieves Market "Chor Bazaar"

After filling up on thalis, puri, pav bhaji, and all the chai in the world, take a wander down the famous Thieves Market.

This is a small market district of Mumbai consisting of just a few narrow lanes where you can find pretty much anything in the world. And, it all comes from dubious sources! This is one of the most interesting markets in the city and you should add it to your list of things to do in India if you're stopping by Mumbai.

Day 4: Stop-Over: Ahmedabad

I originally added Ahmedabad to my India itinerary as a quick stop-over between Mumbai and Rajasthan to break up the long journey. However, after visiting, I was surprised at just how many epic things there are to do and see here.

Visit the Ahmedabad Stepwells

The most fascinating and beautiful sites in Ahmedabad are the incredible stepwells. Stepwells or baoris as they are known in India, are essentially sets of intricate steps that descend deep into the ground to access and store water.

Stepwells are a common architectural attraction throughout India and they once served as meeting places and a central location for people to gather and share stories. The Indian boaris of today remain as cultural icons that reflect India's unique and diverse history.

The best stepwells to visit in Ahmedabad worthy of a spot on your India travel itinerary is the Adalaj Stepwell and the Dada Harir Stepwell.

Stop By the Sabarmati Ashram - Mahatma Gandhi's Home

Another great place to visit in Ahmedabad is the Sabarmati Ashram, which was established by Mahatma Gandhi by the Sabarmati River in 1917. Here, you'll get to explore the ashram, the Gandhi Museum, and the former house of Gandhi himself!

Transport: Day Bus or Train to Jaisalmer

This is one of the only times in the India travel itinerary where I'd recommend getting a day bus instead of an overnight sleeper. The reason is that there's just not enough time to get a sleeper bus on the same day as you arrive.

Alternatively, you could stay an extra day in Ahmedabad and depart on an overnight train or bus the following day. Just know that you'll need to make up for the day if you want to stick to a 30-day visa or 1 month itinerary in India.

Duration: 10 hours

Book your bus: Ahmedabad to Jaisalmer

Day 5-8: Jaisalmer

After a long bus or train ride, travelers will arrive in the 900-year-old Jaisalmer: The Golden City, located deep in the Thar desert near the border of Pakistan.

When you arrive in Jaisalmer, you'll immediately realize the dramatic change of pace from the mayhem of Ahmedabad to the quaint, desert lifestyles of the Rajasthanis.

If you're following this India itinerary for 1 month and make it to Jaisalmer, then you're in for a treat. This was one of our favorite destinations in India, and there are plenty of epic things to see and do.

Explore the Jaisalmer Fort

If you've taken an early morning transport option as recommended in the India travel itinerary above, then you'll arrive during the afternoon.

No matter where you are in Jaisalmer, the towering honey-gold fort dominates the desert landscape, and I bet you can't wait to explore it.

So, drop your bags at your accommodation and get exploring! The Jaisalmer Fort is known to be one of the last remaining "living forts", where approximately one-quarter of the living population still reside within its walls. In my opinion, exploring this fort was one of my favorite things to do in India, especially in Rajasthan!

Upon entering the sandstone gates, it's like stepping back in time, or perhaps into a set of Game of Thrones. Inside you'll find buzzing markets, intricate Jain temples, palaces, and passionate street performers. I recommend following the Lonely Planet's guide to finding the best attractions within the fort or, just wandering around yourself.

At numerous sections of the citadel are sandstone steps leading up to the fort's wall. I highly recommend heading up to the many wall viewpoints to watch the desert sun slip behind the Thar horizon.

Tip: to make the most of your experience in Jaisalmer, I highly recommend staying in a hotel or hostel within the fort walls. This is remarkably inexpensive and most of the better options include a rooftop terrace. Read the accommodation section below for my recommendations on where to stay.

Camel Safari (1-2 Days) - Top Experience in India!

This next attraction is something that I consider a must-do in India. If you're just reading this India itinerary 1-month blog post for travel inspiration, then make sure to add a camel safari to your list!

A camel safari is a Thar Desert experience where you will ride camels with other travelers led by a Real Desert Man for 1, 2, or 3 days.

For overnight trips, you will spend the night camping under the expansive desert stars. This is a great way to experience the authentic Rajasthani culture as the guides all come from small desert communities of camel herders. If you book the tour I recommend, you'll also be welcomed to the remote villages where you can get a sense of what real desert life is like.

Tip: Pack pens, paper, and stationery to give as gifts to the children living in the remote desert communities.

A camel safari in Jaisalmer is by far the most popular attraction and therefore you could expect there to be loads of good operators, and plenty that aren't so great too. Check out the links below to get a better idea about what to expect, and to book the trip.

Gadisar Lake

Gadisar Lake is a man-made lake that was constructed in the year 1367 AD. The lake was built to capture monsoon rainwater that is said to have provided fresh water for all of Jaisalmer's residents.

Some numerous shrines and temples line the Gadisar Lake, which makes it a great attraction to check out in Jaisalmer. If you have an extra day between the camel safari and Fort exploring, make sure to add the Gadisar Lake to your itinerary!

Transport: Night Bus or Train to Jodhpur

After an incredible four days in the Jaisalmer desert, it's time to move to this itinerary's next destination; Jodhpur. I recommend traveling by night bus and picking one of the later ones to arrive at first light in Jodhpur.

Duration: 5-6 hours

Book your bus: Jaisalmer to Jodhpur

Day 9-10: Jodhpur

Arriving in Jodhpur is another very dramatic change of pace to the quiet desert life that you're probably already acclimatized to from Jaisalmer. Jodhpur is known as the old Marwar capital and features an equally impressive hilltop fort at its center.

Jodhpur is also known as India's Blue City, due to its majority blue theme it's got going for it. There are many reasons why Jodhpur is blue, but the truth is that nobody really knows why.

Read: Things to do in Jodhpur in One Day

Check Out the Sardar Market & Ghanta Ghar Clocktower

In the city center of Jodhpur is the Ghantar Ghar Clocktower and the Sardar Market, also known as the Clocktower Market. If you're roaming the streets of Jodhpur as part of this India one-month itinerary, then chances are you will end up here sooner or later.

At the market, you can browse the wares and try some delicious samosas and street food while snapping some great photos.

Stop By The Toorji-Ka-Jhalara Stepwell

Another notable attraction in Jodhpur is the Jodhpur stepwell, or Toorji-ka-Jhalara stepwell. I actually stumbled on it by mistake and immediately recognized it from photos I'd seen when I was planning my first trip to India.

The stepwell is a popular place for people to hang out, as well as for tourists to snap some photos. Entry to the stepwell is free and within walking distance of the Jodhpur Clocktower.

Transport: Bus From Jodhpur to Udaipur

The next stop on the Ultimate India Itinerary 1 Month Journey is Udaipur: The White City. The bus journey from Jodhpur to Udaipur is quite short so you can book a really late bus or a morning bus to avoid wasting a day in transit.

Duration: 5-6 hours

Book a bus: Jodhpur to Udaipur

Day 11-12: Udaipur

As with most cities in Rajasthan, Udaipur has several endearing nicknames. It's known as The City of Lakes, The White City, and India's Wedding City. Udaipur is a truly beautiful city that should definitely not be missed on your India travel route.

However, in my opinion, there aren't as many things to do and see in Udaipur as in some of the other cities. Two days should be enough, but if you want to spend more time unwinding and exploring the intricate cobweb of narrow streets and sprawling lakeside temples and palaces, then I'm sure you could fill out a few more days easily.

We managed to get invited to an Indian wedding which was held on the outskirts of Udaipur. As a result, we had a bit of catching up to do in terms of itinerary items. In the end, to make up for it, we ended up staying three days in Udaipur, managing to see everything we wanted.

Explore the City Palace of Udaipur

Starting off the Udaipur adventures in true fashion is a trip to the City Palace of Udaipur. This is easily one of the most impressive palaces in the world, and it took over 400 years of construction to complete. The palace is more of a mini-city, containing temples, art galleries, halls, villas, and elaborate gateways. The City Palace truly is a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Mewar dynasty.

The City Palace sits beside Lake Pichola and visitors are free to explore the palace grounds independently or with a guide. The entry cost is 500 rupees per person, but you'll be stamped with an additional 250 rupee fee if you bring a camera of any sort.

Lake Pichola

The primary lake of Udaipur is Lake Pichola, an artificial lake constructed as far back as 1362 AD. Many of Udaipur's most famous attractions surround Lake Pichola, including the Summer Palace, Jad Mandir (island), Jagdish Temple, the Monsoon Palace, and the Neemach Mata Temple.  

The lake encompasses four islands; Jad Mandir, Jag Niwas, Mohan Mandir, and Arsi Vilas.

Exploring the lake and its various attractions is a must-add inclusion on any itinerary for India!

Check Out the Bahubali Viewpoint

Has the hustle and bustle of city life got you feeling like you'll be longing for some nature? I certainly know that by now I was! Don't worry, I've got you covered with a not-so-popular item on a Udaipur itinerary.

The Bahubali Viewpoint is located at the back of Udaipur and requires you to either rent a car, motorbike, or driver to get to. You'll drive around the Monsoon Palace and into the Aravali Mountains where there are plenty of places to relax and enjoy a bit of much-needed nature.

I've written a complete guide to how to get to Bahubali Viewpoint from Udaipur which you can find on the link below.

Visit Animal Aid: Udaipur

Animal Aid Udaipur is an animal rescue sanctuary for street animals in Udaipur.

It's open to visitors who are able to come and meet the animals and even give a helping hand. If you're an animal lover looking to give back, spending a few hours helping at Animal Aid is a good addition to the India itinerary.

Transport: Bus From Udaipur to Pushkar

The next transit journey from Udaipur to Pushkar can get a little confusing. Pushkar is a very small and remote desert oasis and is only well-connected to neighboring Ajmer. Therefore, you'll need to book a bus or train to Ajmer first.

For this journey, we chose to take a night train because it was possible to book last minute and it ended up being cheaper for us.

Regardless of whether you choose a bus or a train for your route, once you arrive at Ajmer, you'll need to take the short 30-minute bus onward to Pushkar. It can be a slightly intimidating experience trying to get transport to Pushkar. However, if you politely reject the touts and pushy rickshaw drivers, there is a direct public bus that runs from both the railway station and the bus stand to Pushkar for only 15 rupees.

From the bus station in Ajmer, you'll find the public bus near the last bus stall. At the railway station, you need to walk across the pedestrian overpass to the front of the station, just below the overpass.

Duration: Bus/train: 6 hours to Ajmer | public bus to Pushkar from Ajmer: 30 minutes.

Book a bus: Udaipur to Ajmer

Day 13-15: Pushkar

Arriving in Pushkar is a refreshing breath of fresh air as we near the halfway point on the India one-month itinerary. The small oasis town of Pushkar is the perfect place to de-stress, unwind, and just simply take a minute to breathe. Pushkar is definitely an off-the-beaten-path destination but has been a travel hotspot for Israelis for quite some time and it's become one that's catching on with the rest of the world.

Pushkar's population is only a mere 21,000 people but sees thousands of visitors to its sacred lake on spiritual pilgrimages yearly. The main attractions include the Brahma Temple and the annual Pushkar Camel Fair in November. 

Take Some Short Hikes For Sunset Views

Have all these vibrant cities left you craving a bit of outdoor adventure? There are a couple of short but scenic hills with hilltop temples that make for great sunset hikes.

I've written about these viewpoints in separate articles which I'll link to below. They'll contain information on how to get there, what to expect, and some photos of the view. If you're looking for more inspiration for where to spend the sunset in Pushkar, make sure you read my Pushkar sunset blog too.

• Read More: Gayatri Mata Temple Hike Pushkar
• Read More: Savitri Temple Hike Pushkar

Browse the Market Wares

Pushkar has a long history as a Hindu pilgrimage destination, with travelers coming far and wide for centuries to witness Lord Brahma's holy lake. With them, came traveling merchants who built Pushkar's vibrant market culture that remains today.

While the town is very small, you can easily get lost in its markets. You'll find stalls selling everything from fine handmade silver jewelry, clothes, spices, knives, tools, and hemp products. If you're looking to pick up a souvenir on your trip to India, this would be the place to do so.

Visit the Pushkar Lake & Brahman Temple

When you're in Pushkar, you'll end up at the lake at one time or another. The story behind Pushkar's lake, or Pushkar Sarovar, is that Brahma, the creator of the universe made the lake by dropping a lotus on the ground.

Devout Hindus believe that taking a dip in the lake cleanses the soul and cures skin ailments. While you won't often find Westerners swimming, Hindus regularly bathe and wash their clothes in the holy waters. efficient

Tip: What many people don't tell you is that there's a well-designed and highly efficient scam that targets Western tourists in Pushkar. A "Brahman" or high-caste Hindu will tell you that he wants to give you a blessing in the lake and that it won't cost anything. After he has you by the lake, he'll "bless" you and your family, tie a string on your wrist and begin demanding money or a "donation". You'll find most travelers walking around Pushkar with this piece of string, so if you get roped in, don't feel too bad.

The Annual Camel Fair

One of the main attractions and celebrations held in Pushkar is the annual Pushkar Fair or Pushkar Camel Fair/Kartik Mela. The celebration is held each year on the full moon period in the Hindu lunar month of Kartik.

This is a festival attraction that is featured on many India travel itineraries and if you make it to Pushkar during this time, I'm sure you'll find that experiencing this market is one of the best things to do in India on your trip.

Rajasthani people from all over the state walk their camels through the desert to Pushkar every year to take part in the livestock trade and annual festivities. It's also now become a huge Rajasthani tourist attraction which also now brings people from all over the world. Expect camel-themed festivities including camel beauty contests, races, parades, and even dances!

2024 Pushkar Camel Fair Dates: 9^th November 2024 – 15^th November 2024

Transport: Bus From Pushkar to Jaipur

After a relaxing three days in Pushkar, it's time to crank up the heat once more as we make our way to Jaipur; The Pink City. I recommend taking a bus for this leg of the journey because it's much more convenient to take a bus from Pushkar town than going all the way back to Ajmer for a train. It's also much faster than other routes so far. So, taking an afternoon or morning bus is a good bet.

Duration: 4 hours

Book: Pushkar to Jaipur

Day 16-19: Jaipur

Jaipur is the biggest city in Rajasthan and therefore I've dedicated a full four days to exploring its splendors. Entering Jaipur, you will be thrown into the thick of things, landing right in the center of the Golden Triangle tourist route.

From epic forts, mind-blowing palaces, beating, breathing, bazaars, and astonishing monuments, Jaipur is the city of culture and one that is a clear highlight on this Ultimate India Itinerary 1 Month Journey.

Nahargarh Fort

Nahargarh Fort stands on the hill edge of the Aravalli Range and overlooks the Pink City of Jaipur. It makes up one of Jaipur's three colossal forts that once formed an effective ring around the city.

The entry cost is 200 rupees for foreigners, but it's well worth exploring. Even if you don't have the time to see the interior, I highly recommend taking the hike up to see the city from its walls, which is free.

Read: Best Jaipur Viewpoints and Sunset Points in the Pink City

Jaipur City Palace

Jaipur is the capital of the Rajasthan state and for many years the Jaipur City Palace served as the ceremonial and administrative seat for the Maharaja. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction for Indians and international visitors who come to admire the many courtyards, galleries, museums, restaurants, and beautiful doors and archways.

However, the City Palace still has royal utility, serving as the home for the present Jaipur royals.

The entry cost to the Jaipur City Palace is 700 rupees per person. Admittedly, it's a little steep compared to the other attractions you would have seen in India so far. However, visiting the City Palace in Jaipur is very worth adding to your India itinerary.

Amer Fort and the Jaipur Wall

For those of you reading this India travel guide and still in the planning stages of your India one-month itinerary, make sure to add the Amer Fort (Amber Fort) to your list of things to do!

As I touched on earlier, Jaipur has three main forts, but none are as spectacular as the Amer Fort. This fort is located just a short car or rickshaw drive from Jaipur in the town of Amer. You can spend several hours admiring the many ramparts, gates, cobbled paths, and incredible viewpoints over the Thar desert.

The entry price for the Amer Fort is 500 rupees, which allows visitors to explore freely. Alternatively, you can book a local, English-speaking guide to show you through the fort and explain the finer details.

Just opposite the entrance to the Amer Fort is the famous "Great Wall of Jaipur". This is a very scenic wall that snakes its way up the hilly terrain, serving as a first defense against invaders.

These days, the Jaipur Wall is an important historical relic of Jaipur, and also one of the best spots to watch the sunset!

Jaipur Stepwell

Also located in Amer is the popular Panna Meena Ka Kund, or Jaipur Stepwell. This is a beautiful stepwell that has gained popularity among photographers and on Instagram for its creamy, faded yellow, symmetrical steps.

Visiting the Jaipur stepwell is free, so it makes perfect sense to add it to your itinerary after the Amer Fort and the Amer Wall.

Hawa Mahal

While there are many more attractions worth considering in Jaipur, including the Jal Mahal, the Jantar Mantar, and the Birla Mandir, I'll try to focus on just a few. If you're running short on time, then Hawa Mahal, in my opinion, is one of the most impressive.

It's recognized as one of the most beautiful palaces in Rajasthan, which is no simple feat! The Hawa Mahal was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, who was the grandson of Jaipur's founder. To match Jaipur's "Pink" architectural style, the palace is built out red and pink sandstone. Its facade features a honeycomb exterior of 953 small windows known as Jharokhas.

Again, you can admire the building from afar, but checking out the inside is well worth the 200 rupee entry fee.

Bonus: Jaipur Hot Air Balloon Experience

Alright, this last itinerary recommendation isn't a Jaipur-specific attraction, but a worthwhile one nonetheless. If you're been considering doing a hor air balloon ride in India, then one of the best operators you'll find are in Jaipur.

The trips usually run for sunrise or sunset and float over the golden glow of the Thar Desert. If you're looking for a breathtaking experience with a mind-blowing view, it doesn't get much better than a hot air balloon ride in Jaipur.

Transport: Bus From Jaipur to Agra

Following an exhilarating four days exploring Jaipur's many attractions, it's time to continue on the Golden Triangle route onwards to Agra. I recommend taking a late or an early morning bus since the distance is not really long enough for an overnight sleeper. Alternatively, you can book a direct train, with the fastest option only taking 3.5 hours to reach Agra.

Duration: 5 hours

Book: Jaipur to Agra Bus

Day 20-21: Agra

For many, Agra will be a highlight of this India 1 month itinerary due to the opportunity of seeing one of the world's most beautiful buildings; The Taj Mahal. In all honesty, there's not that much to do in Agra besides seeing the Taj.

But... have you really been to India if you haven't seen it? Besides, Agra makes the perfect stop-over en route to Delhi and Rishikesh, which are the two next destinations on this India travel route.

The Agra Fort

In all fairness, The Agra Fort doesn't get the attention that it truly deserves. While being largely overshadowed by the Taj Mahal, the Agra Fort is one of the most impressive on this India 1 month itinerary! It's really more akin to a walled city than just a royal fortress, being 94 acres (38 hectares) in size and encompassing an assortment of palaces, courtyards, bridges, towers, gateways, and bastions.

You can get to the Agra Fort by walking from the Taj, taking around 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can pay a rickshaw driver 150-200 rupees to drop you there. Otherwise, book a guided tour.

The entry cost to the Agra Fort is 650 rupees for foreigners.

Transport: Bus From Agra to Delhi

The short distance from Agra to Delhi and its well-connected nature means that both trains and fast buses are a viable option for the next leg of transport. Just keep in mind that New Delhi is remarkably huge. Plan ahead to book a route that stops at a bus terminal within a reasonable distance of your planned accommodation.

Duration: 3-4 hours

Book a bus: Agra to Delhi

Day 22-23: Delhi

For many, picturing the quintessential Indian urban city results in New Delhi coming to mind. It's the capital of India and has been continuously inhabited for as far back as 600 BCE! It's difficult to comprehend such an ancient city, let alone begin to venture into its deep-rooted history.

Today, Delhi serves as the administrative capital but offers much more than politics for travelers in India. I originally planned to visit New Delhi as a transit visit on the way to Rishikesh, but I'm very glad I did. If you're following this India itinerary for one month, then a 2-day stopover in Delhi gives you enough time to explore without sacrificing too much time in the mountains.

While there are many forts, palaces, and monuments in Delhi worth visiting, I treated my visit to Delhi a little differently. Instead of chasing attractions as we had in the past 21 days, we instead just wandered the streets in search of great food and hidden gems.

Regardless, I've still included some of the main highlights in Delhi below for you to consider for your India travel itinerary. However, you'll find some more great ideas on this blog.

Lotus Temple

The Lotus Temple is one of the most unique attractions on this India travel guide for the reason that it's a relatively modern monument. This is especially apparent after considering the ancient wonders we have been exploring to date.

The entire lotus building is made from white marble and almost resembles the Sydney Opera House, from my home country. If you're in Delhi as part of your India travel itinerary, make sure to check it out during nighttime.

More Things to Do in Delhi

There are so many amazing things to do in India, especially in giant cities like Delhi! Below are some other highlights you might not want to miss.

• Jama Masjid (Masjid-i Jehan-Numa) - one of the largest mosques in India
• Red Fort (Lal Qila) - historic fort in Old Delhi
• Chandni Chowk - sprawling shopping district in the heart of Delhi

Transport: New Delhi to Rishikesh

The next destination on this Inda travel route is the incredible Rishikesh, located on the River Ganges in the foothills of the Himalayas. For this trip, I highly recommend getting an overnight sleeper bus from Delhi since the duration is perfect for a full night's sleep.

Tip: make sure to plan a bus route that leaves from a bus terminal close to your accommodation. Delhi is a very big city and traffic can be horrendous, so plan ahead. On the other side, you'll also be dropped at a bus station in Adarsh Gram. This is 15 minutes from the main Tapovan area of Rishikesh by road. Once you arrive, share a Vikram (large, blue tuk-tuks) to Tapovan with other passengers. Don't pay more than 500 rupees for the whole group!

Duration: 8 hours

Book: New Delhi to Rishikesh Bus

Day 24-27: Rishikesh

Nearing the end of this Ultimate India Itinerary 1 Month Journey, travelers will arrive in the hippy, yoga, and adventure capital of India: Rishikesh.

Rishikesh is my favorite destination in the country and a perfect place to visit after a very hectic and fast-paced 3 weeks of traveling in India. There are plenty of opportunities for adventures, hikes, waterfalls, cliff jumping, and more. Alternatively, you could treat the next four days as a bit of a detox while you soak in the calming ambiance of the Ganges River.

Below I'll detail some of the best things to do while in Rishikesh, but the reality is that there are just so many. You'll find more ideas and details for things to do in this Travel Guide to Rishikesh.

Hike to Waterfalls

Rishikesh's idyllic natural location on the banks of the Ganges and deep in the Himalayan foothills means that there are naturally some epic hikes and waterfalls to explore. Most of the waterfalls can be reached by foot from the Laxman Jhula bridge in the main tourist area of Tapovan.

I've written a separate Rishikesh waterfall guide, as well as individual guides for how to reach each waterfall, the latter of which you'll find in the links below.

• Neer Garh Waterfall
• Garud Chatti Falls
• Patna Falls

Beatles Ashram

A popular attraction in Rishikesh is the "Beatles Ashram". But, what is it?

The Beatles Ashram is the name given to the yoga and meditation ashram made famous by the Beatles. They chose to stay here while creating their record-shattering White Album in the 1960s. Rishikesh's popularity with spiritually-minded and free-spirited adventures today may draw inspiration from the Beatles, who shot India and particularly Rishikesh into the global tourist spotlight.

Exploring the Ashram is like stepping back in time to the "swinging sixties", as you explore the old, no longer-running ashram.

Whitewater Rafting on the Ganges

Out of the many incredible destinations on this 1 month India itinerary, Rishikesh has to be the most diverse. It offers the best of both extremes; relaxed, sleepy vibes, and hectic, adrenaline-pumping adventures.

One of the best things to do in Rishikesh is to go white water rafting down the many courses of the Ganges River. Below I've linked to one of the best-rated whitewater rafting tours, which accommodates courses and routes for people with varying experience and ability.

Rent a Classic Royal Enfield and Explore the Mountain Roads

Name a better way to explore the Himalayan foothills than by a two-wheeled classic. In Rishikesh, you can rent a 500cc+ Royal Enfield for approximately 1,500 rupees per day. This gives you the freedom to explore the greater mountainous region surrounding Rishikesh.

If you're up for an epic adventure, I' highly recommend riding to the Kunjapuri Devi Temple for the most scenic ride and epic views at the end.

Bungy Jump & Giant Swing

Still feeling the need for speed? Rishikesh has a world-renowned, bungy jump and giant swing which is run by jump masters from the birthplace of bungy; New Zealand.

Both the bungy and the giant swing are the tallest and most epic in India. Also, they are really cheap when compared to other parts of the world. If a bungy jump has been on your bucket list for a while, then definitely add it as a must-do attraction on your India 1 month itinerary.

Book: Jumpin Heights Bungy Rishikesh

Book: Giant Swing Rishikesh

Transport: Bus from Rishikesh to Varanasi

Are you ready for the longest journey on this India travel itinerary? The bus journey to our final destination; Varanasi, is a very long, but scenic bus route that stretches nearly 840 kilometers starting and finishing at different points along the Ganges River.

Luckily, there are a few very high-quality and comfortable overnight sleeper buses departing from the bus terminal in Adarsh Gram, just 15 minutes from Tapovan in Rishikesh.

I highly recommend taking a bus for this journey as it offers the only direct transport to our next destination. Also, try to get a sleeper bus departing at around 4-5 or in the afternoon so that you arrive in Varanasi early the next morning.

Duration: 16 hours

Book: Rishikesh to Varanasi Overnight Bus

Day 28-30: Varanasi

We've made it to the final destination on this Ultimate India Itinerary 1 Month Journey, and what an adventure it has been. The final highlight of this India trip is Varanasi; the holiest of cities, which is a fitting end to this incredible pilgrimage of ours.

Varanasi, which is also known as Benaras, is recognized for its holiness in Hindu and Jain religions and played an important role in the development of both Buddhism and Ravidassia. It's a holy pilgrimage site that attracts tens of thousands of people to its banks every year.

According to some sources, Varanasi could also be the oldest surviving city on earth, founded up to 5000 years ago by Lord Shiva. However, according to the historians, best estimates put Varanasi at around 3000 years old, which is still a very impressive figure.

Ganges River Boat For Sunrise

The Ganges is the world's most sacred river and its waters flow from glacial waters high in the Uttarakhandi Himalaya, over 1000 kilometres from Varanasi. By far, the best way to experience its beauty and sacred importance is to take a sunrise boat ride from the Varanasi Ghats.

This is one of the most popular things to do in Varanasi, and consequently, there are hundreds of row boats lined up every morning at the river banks. On a morning boat ride, you will experience the golden glow of the morning sun lighting up the temples and burning ghats as you slowly row downstream.

Visit the Ghats

Devout Hindus travel from all over India to cremate their loved ones in the ghats of Varanasi, the holiest of burial sites in India - the biggest of which is the Dashashwamedh Ghat. The fire burning in the ghats is said to never extinguish and often has been burning for several hundred years. However, the Varanasi ghats mean more to Indian people than just a cremation site. Most offer steps leading to the water's edge where devout Hindus can bathe and perform religious rituals.

Visiting such a holy place requires travelers to exercise respectful reservations. Don't disrespect the lives of those being cremated and respect the ancient culture and customs.

Meet a Sadhu

The Sadhu or Holy Men of Varanasi are spiritually devout individuals who have vowed to renounce the material world. Due to the sacred nature of Varanasi, these ascetics often congregate to the city where they pray and practice daily rituals and ceremonies on the Ganges riverbank.

For one to become a Sadhu, one must give up all worldly possessions and means of acquiring them. They get by solely from the donations of others, much like devout Buddhist monks in other parts of Asia. I found it fascinating that many of Varanasi's Sadhu started very ordinary lives, some of which were successful businessmen or corporate employees.

Getting the opportunity to photograph the Sadhu of Varanasi was an incredible moment for me. My goal was to try to capture just how respected and revered these men are in Hindu culture and religion.

It might seem strange to those from the West to be blessed by a naked man covered in human ashes and wielding a peacock-feathered staff. But, after witnessing these unusual and far-distant customs, it makes me question all of the weird things that we do in the West and still consider normal.

Perspective is important, but the meaning we derive from our unique cultures and history is what makes the human race so fascinating.

Cleanse the Soul in the Ganges

Did I mention that the Ganges was a holy river? Okay, you get it. But would you be willing to bathe in its cleansing waters?

It's said that one dip in the holy river cleanses the mind and soul and rids the body of afflictions. It's no wonder then that you'll find many Hindu men and women bathing together each morning.

For Westerners, it may seem just a little strange that one would swim in water that contains the burnt ashes of thousands of other humans. But for Hindus, this is one of the purest forms of cleansing.

Experience the Ganga Aarti

Each evening, thousands of people gather at the Dashashwamedh Ghat to watch the holy ceremony known as the Ganga Aarti. It's a fire ceremony, or Agni Pooja, conducted by high-caste Brahman priests. The ceremony is dedicated to worshipping Lord Shiva, the River Ganga, Agni (sun), and Surya (sun).

The Ganga Aarti is performed in many cities, villages, and towns along the Ganges River, but none draw a crowd like the Aarti in Varanasi.

The fire performance with live music and chanting is a powerful scene that will leave anyone feeling fresh and with a renewed sense of appreciation for this beautiful ritual.

The End of the Ultimate India Itinerary 1 Month Journey

And just like that, this epic India 1 month itinerary draws to an end. The final day will see you fly back to your home country, or onwards to your next country or destination.

There is an international airport (Lal Bahadur Shastri), which is located approximately 45 minutes drive from the city center. Public transport to the airport exists but is slightly confusing and unreliable. Instead, I recommend just booking a cheap private airport transfer online.

There are many flight routes connecting Varanasi to major international terminals. However, you might find that some of the cheapest flights include a layover in Lucknow or Delhi.

For those continuing their India travel itineraries, or moving onto Kathmandu Nepal, perhaps to do some trekking, there is also a central bus hub just 15 minutes from Varanasi central.

If you have made it this far down into the blog post, I thank you, and really hope that you gain some value from this travel guide.

India is an incredible destination and if you're still planning your trip, I wish you all the best in your adventures! Moving on with this blog post, I've included a rather lengthy travel guide to India below which should answer most of your questions and give you some useful tips about planning a trip to India.

Tip: Consider visiting Sri Lanka or South India after this epic trip!

More Places to See In India To - Extend Your Trip!

While I know that you probably feel like this India 1-month itinerary covers A LOT in just 30 days, there are so many more places worth visiting that didn't make the cut.

Below I've listed a few notable places and things to do in India that you might want to consider when planning your itinerary or for future trips.

• Ranthambore National Park
• Goa & Hampi - best places to visit in South India
• Alleppey
• Darjeeling
• Amritsar
• Leh
• Kashmir
• Manali

India Travel Guide: What to Know Before You Go

Before you embark on your epic India travel itinerary, make sure to check out some of these tips and answers to common questions to have you more prepared for your trip.

Visas for Travel in India

Do you need a visa to travel to India? The answer is yes. For most Western countries, the visa process is quite simple and can be completed online using the government's e-visa platform. You'll need to provide all of your information and an electronic passport photo as part of your application.

The visa you will want to get for travel is an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) e-tourist visa.

It's possible to apply for visas of different lengths, but if you're only going to travel in India on a 1-month itinerary, then 30 day visa makes perfect sense. The price varies depending on your country of citizenship, so you should check the e-visa website for up-to-date visa fees and information.

Packing List

Besides securing a visa, perhaps the next most important thing to consider for your India travel plan is what you are going to bring!

I've covered what you should pack (and what you shouldn't) extensively in this India packing list blog post, so make. sure to check it out before you go.

How Much Does it Cost to Follow this India Itinerary?

Travel budgets are a difficult topic to cover because everybody travels differently. That's why in this India itinerary guide, I've linked to budget, mid-range, and luxury accommodations throughout.

The truth is that traveling in India can be very cheap.

Some days, I spent less than $4 USD on accommodation and probably less on street food, easily clearing under a daily budget of $10 USD. However, if you've read some of my other guides or blogs, then you'll know I that I prefer this no-frills approach to shoestring travel.

Living basically and cheaply is just something that I've learned to prefer over the past few years of living on the road. However, I do understand that many people prefer to spend a little more on nice restaurant meals and rooms with a view.

Here is a cost breakdown of what you might expect to pay daily if you usually stick to a budget when traveling. Truthfully, these numbers are conservative and if you're used to living on a budget, you'll probably spend less.

For those with a higher-end budget, expect to pay anywhere between 3-10x as much.

Item	Cost (INR)
Food, snacks, and drinks daily (3 meals)	700 rupees
Accommodation	500 rupees
Various activities/tours/entry tickets	750 rupees
Transport	350 rupees
Total daily budget	2,200 rupees (~$30 USD)

Travel Insurance for a 1 Month India Trip

India is going to be one destination where you’ll definitely want to have travel insurance, especially if you're going to follow this action-packed India 1 month itinerary.

For reliable and affordable insurance, check out HeyMondo. Their policies cover everything from hospital cover, to accidents, theft, and travel delays. They also have an excellent app that makes handling claims super easy on the go.

Getting Around in India - Trains vs Buses

I've touched on the topic of trains and buses when it comes to traveling around India already throughout this post. As you've seen, choosing buses over trains is typically going to be a cheaper and easier option, especially if you like to book things last minute for the most flexibility.

However, there are routes in this India 1 month itinerary where a train journey makes more sense e.g. from Udaipur to Pushkar.

Best Time to Visit India

The answer is that it will vary depending on where you'll be spending time. For this itinerary, the best time to visit is between the months of October and March. During this time, weather is cooler in the desert, and you'll avoid the monsoon rains too.

Notable Holidays, Festivals & Celebrations

With a country with such a rich history and diverse culture, you'd expect there to be hundreds, if not thousands of notable holidays, events, and celebrations worth visiting. That's exactly what I was faced with when trying to organize the dates for my first trip to India.

Below I'll summarize some of the biggest and most well-known holidays and celebrations, as well as where they are celebrated.

• All India, Holi Festival: Usually March - (If there is one festival that you try to experience, make it Holi! I celebrated Holi in Varanasi a few years ago and it was one of the best festivals I've ever experienced).
• All India, Mahashivratri (Shiva's birthday): Usually in March
• Pushkar Camel Fair: Usually October or November
• All India, Diwali: Between October - December
• Maharashtra, Ganesh Chaturthi: August - September

FAQs About Travel in India

India's Caste System Explained for Travelers

The caste system divides Hindus into hierarchical groups which dictates things like who one should marry, what work one should carry out, and how much respect one deserves. This system is 3000 years old and although progressive Indian cities tend to break the mold of caste a little, it's still a fundamental part of Indian culture and society.

At the top of the caste ladder are the Brahmans, who are the holiest of castes and work as priests and teachers. Divergently, those at the bottom of this hierarchy: the Dalits (untouchables), are those people deemed so low in society that they aren't part of the system. They are condemned to conduct work that is deemed too dirty or degrading for other castes like dealing with human waste.

Admittedly, this is a very over-simplified explanation aimed at appeasing the general curiosity of travelers and outsiders. The truth is that India harbors an incredible diversity of people, with seemingly millions of secluded and interconnected cultural attributes, languages, heritages, and religions.

This concept is extremely dense, and any uneducated foreigner is going to make a mess of trying to explain it. However, above is an infographic that I think does a good job of explaining the gist to outsiders.

More Things to Do in India

And that concludes my Ultimate India Itinerary 1 Month Journey and India travel guide. If you found it useful, or have any questions, suggestions, or updates for other travelers, please reach out by leaving a comment.

Otherwise, if you're looking for more travel inspiration for India, check out this list of links below.

• Epic 1-month India Itinerary - the ultimate India travel itinerary covering the best places to go and things to see.
• Taj Mahal View Locations - best spots to see & photograph the Taj Mahal.
• Things to do in Rishikesh - explore the adventure & yoga capital of India in this travel guide.
• Training & HMI Darjeeling - my experience completing my Basic Mountaineering Course in Darjeeling.