1 Week in India: Classic Itinerary for First Timer

India, a hot country, is also a hot travel destination. You may have heard many rumors about India before. No matter hesitating or eager, in the end, you are overwhelmed by its charm and decide to explore the heat of India. And sure, you will not regret seeing this INCREDIBLE country.

Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur are these three hot cities that compose the "Golden Triangle of India". This classic tour forms an essential route for first-time visitors, making it a must-visit itinerary.

Amber Fort

When to Visit?

The best travel time to India is October to March. It's the winter in India, and the travel high season also. The temperature can range from 15°C to 30°C in the main tourist destinations. The cozy weather can bring you a pleasant mood to travel.

If you travel to India in summer (April to June), choosing the morning and late afternoon time would be a smart decision. In the Monsoon (July to September), you can visit the southern part of India to experience a different India.

How to Explore India in 1 Week?

Step into India and start your 1-week tour. Stay two nights in Delhi, two nights in Agra, and another two in Jaipur. This compact itinerary does not mean you will miss any highlights of the Golden Triangle Route. On the contrary, visiting three cities in one seamless journey keeps your enthusiasm high and attention focused, culminating in a continual 'wow' moment at the end of this incredible trip.

Day 1 - Day 2 Namaste Delhi, Namaste India

"Namaste", literally means "bowing to you", is a customary etiquette in India, for showing a respectful greeting. From your arrival at India Gandhi International Airport to your departure, this word will accompany you the throughout whole trip - mirroring the warm atmosphere in every corner in India.

Day 2 starts in Old Delhi, where you will keep marveling at the colorful and brilliant culture of India. Jama Masjid, the principal tourist attraction in Delhi, is the greatest mosque that can be capable of holding 25,000 worshippers.

Hop on a rickshaw and weave through the bustling lanes and alleys of Chandni Chowk. Proceed to New Delhi to delve into a cultural wonder - Qutub Minar and conclude the day with a visit to the Hindu Temple - Laxmi Narayan Temple.

As dawn creeps in, you will finish the Delhi journey contently.

Jama Masjid in Delhi

Day 3 - Day 4 Everlasting Agra, Everlasting Love

Taj Mahal, collectively known as the landmark of India, is about a lingering and pathos love story and is also about the architecture's miracle.

When the sun comes out, the bright color covers the whole building, just like you are immersed in the loving atmosphere between Emperor Shah Jahan and his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Under the silvery moonlight, you will be deeply moved by the sad story of senile Shah Jahan. Finally, you can only see the Taj Mahal in a blurry mirror. All year round, from day to night, the Taj Mahal shows you a marvelous experience. Who can resist the glamour of the Taj Mahal?

Agra not only has the Taj Mahal. Take in the sights of Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is made of red sandstone. This majestic fortress is full of history and witnesses the resplendence of the Mughal Empire.

Taj Mahal, Agra

Day 5 - Day 6 Pink Hawa Mahal, Pink Jaipur

Break up the five-hour car journey with a stop at Fatehpur Sikri. This small city is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture. Follow the steps with the local guide, and you will learn how this "City of Victory" was glorious in the past.

Touch down in Jaipur, the fascination of this pink city is more than you expect. In 1853, most buildings in the city were painted pink. This makes Jaipur more popular than before.

Nestled in the Aravalli Range, the Amber Fort is the paragon of Rajasthani architecture, showcasing a perfect fusion of Indian and Islamic styles.

Take photos of the signature holistic Hawa Mahal. Imagine how exciting the ladies behind the wall would be when they have a glimpse to see the outside world during the strict hierarchy time.

Drop a visit to City Palace and Jantar Mantar to get an insight into India's imperial past and scientific achievements.

Casements on the Facade to Look out at the Bustling Street

Day 7 Farewell Delhi, Farewell India

Back to Delhi by our private car and go to the airport. Though the captivating journey is finished, the memory is endless.

Ah, after taking 1 week in India, you will find it is far from enough time to see this splendid destination. Make a 9-day tour with an extension to Varanasi, go to Darjeeling and Kolkata to taste the undiscovered treasures, or spend longer days in the southern part - Kerala by kicking back in the backwater.

It's hard to portray what's the real experience while traveling in India in words, so pack your luggage and go explore by yourself.