The Best Spots To Cover In India In 20 Days
India is a diverse country with a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and a wide range of attractions that draw tourists from all over the world. With so much to explore, planning a trip to India can be overwhelming, especially if you have a limited amount of time. In this blog post, we’ll help you plan the ultimate 20-day itinerary to cover the best spots in India.
Delhi (2-3 days)
Delhi, the capital city of India, is a perfect place to start your 20-day journey. Delhi offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, with historical monuments, bustling markets, and street food. Here are a few things you should include in your Delhi itinerary:
- Visit the iconic Red Fort and Humayun’s Tomb
- Explore the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk and indulge in some delicious street food
- Visit the Lotus Temple and Qutub Minar
- Explore the cultural hub of Delhi, Connaught Place
Agra (1-2 days)
Agra is home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal. A visit to India is incomplete without a visit to the Taj Mahal. Here are a few things you should include in your Agra itinerary:
- Witness the beauty of the Taj Mahal at sunrise or sunset
- Visit the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Explore the local markets and try some of the famous Agra street food
Jaipur (2-3 days)
Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. Here are a few things you should include in your Jaipur itinerary:
- Visit the Amer Fort, Hawa Mahal, and City Palace
- Shop for souvenirs at the famous Johari Bazaar
- Take a hot air balloon ride for a bird’s-eye view of the city
Jaisalmer (2-3 days)
Jaisalmer, located in the heart of the Thar desert, is a city of forts, palaces, and sand dunes. Here are a few things you should include in your Jaisalmer itinerary:
- Take a camel ride and explore the sand dunes
- Visit the Jaisalmer Fort and Patwon ki Haveli
- Attend a cultural show in the evening to experience the local music and dance
Udaipur (2-3 days)
Udaipur, also known as the City of Lakes, is a picturesque city with beautiful lakes, palaces, and gardens. Here are a few things you should include in your Udaipur itinerary:
- Visit the City Palace and Jag Mandir Palace
- Take a boat ride on Lake Pichola
- Visit the famous Bagore ki Haveli for an evening cultural show
Goa (3-4 days)
Goa is a perfect place to relax and unwind after your hectic journey. Here are a few things you should include in your Goa itinerary:
- Relax on the beaches of North Goa, such as Baga, Calangute, and Anjuna
- Visit the churches of Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Take a spice plantation tour and try some of the local cuisine
Mumbai (2-3 days)
Mumbai, also known as the city of dreams, is a bustling metropolis with a unique blend of cultures and traditions. Here are a few things you should include in your Mumbai itinerary:
- Visit the Gateway of India and Elephanta Caves
- Take a tour of the famous film city, Bollywood
- Shop at the famous Crawford Market
Tips to Keep in Mind While Traveling in India
India is a unique and diverse country with a rich culture, but it can also be overwhelming for first-time visitors. Here are some tips to keep in mind while traveling in India:
- Dress conservatively: In India, modesty is highly valued, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, or revealing clothing, and should cover their shoulders and knees. Men should also dress conservatively, avoiding shorts and tank tops in public.
- Be cautious with street food: Indian cuisine is known for its delicious street food, but it’s important to be cautious when trying new dishes. Look for clean and busy stalls, and avoid uncooked or unpeeled fruits and vegetables, as well as unpasteurized dairy products.
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions: India has a diverse range of cultures and traditions, and it’s important to be respectful of local customs. For example, it’s customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or a place of worship, and it’s polite to ask for permission before taking someone’s photo.
- Negotiate prices: In India, bargaining is a way of life, especially in markets and bazaars. It’s important to negotiate prices when buying souvenirs or using taxis, as the initial prices are often inflated.
Food You Can Taste There
Indian cuisine is known for its diverse flavors and spices, and there are a variety of dishes to try during your 20-day trip. Here are some popular dishes to try:
- Butter Chicken: A creamy chicken dish cooked in a tomato and butter-based sauce.
- Chole Bhature: A popular Punjabi dish made of spicy chickpeas served with fried bread.
- Dosa: A thin pancake made from fermented rice and lentil batter, usually served with coconut chutney and sambar.
- Biryani: A fragrant rice dish cooked with meat, vegetables, and spices.
- Chaat: A popular street food consisting of small plates of savory snacks, such as samosas, bhel puri, and pani puri.
How to Capture Best Moments There
India is a photographer’s paradise, with stunning landscapes, colorful architecture, and diverse cultures. Here are some tips for capturing the best moments during your trip:
- Wake up early: Many of the popular tourist spots in India are crowded during the day, so it’s a good idea to wake up early to capture the sunrise or the first light of the day.
- Focus on the details: India is full of intricate details and patterns, so try to capture the small details that make each place unique.
- Get off the beaten path: While the popular tourist spots are a must-visit, try to explore the lesser-known areas to capture the authentic essence of India.
- Interact with the locals: The people of India are friendly and hospitable, so don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation or ask for permission before taking a photo. This can lead to some of the most memorable moments of your trip.
In conclusion, India is a country full of surprises, with a diverse range of landscapes, cultures, and traditions to explore. With 20 days to spare, you can cover some of the best spots in India, from the vibrant cities of Delhi and Mumbai to the serene backwaters of Kerala and the majestic mountains of the Himalayas. By keeping some simple tips in mind while traveling, trying the delicious local cuisine, and capturing the best moments through your camera lens, you can make the most of your 20-day trip to India. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, India is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.