If you have two weeks of vacation time, why not spend it in India? While two weeks isn’t enough time to see everything you should see in India, it’s enough time to see the main sights and soak up the wonderful culture. Here’s how you can do it!
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Days 1–3: Mumbai
We’ll start by flying into Mumbai. Be prepared – the flight time is 14-17 hours on a direct flight from the United States to India and as much as 24 hours if you have connections. And you will likely arrive in the middle of the night or early morning.
If you arrive in the middle of the night, it’s probably best to book a hotel room for that night and let them know you are arriving late. Or you can book an overnight stay or hourly booking at the Naranta Airport Transit Hotel. This way you can get some sleep and freshen up for what will be a busy first day in Mumbai!
Day 1: Colonial Mumbai
Once you have gotten a little rest and a quick shower, it’s time to tour the town! I know it will be tempting to sleep all day, but you will get over jet lag more quickly if you stay up as late as possible. So our focus today is to tour some of the colonial sites in Mumbai before hitting the hay.
Of course you will want to start your day at the iconic Gateway of India. It overlooks the Mumbai Harbor and was built in 1924 to commemorate the visit of King George V of England. Admire the architecture and enjoy the lively waterfront vibe. You can even tour the gateway via speed boat!
Next, spend some time wandering around the neighborhoods of Colaba and Kala Ghoda. This region of the city is where the Gateway of India is located and is known as Mumbai’s cultural heart. Admire the colonial architecture as you browse through art galleries and boutiques and enjoy delicious food at one of the many cafes scattered through the neighborhoods. And you will definitely want to check out the Colaba Causeway Market. It is open daily from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. and has stalls with jewelry, scarves, handbags, souvenirs, antiques, and clothing.
Now you visit the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya. Formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum, it showcases India’s best collection of art and artifacts.
You will end your day by taking a stroll on Marine Drive to see the sunset. Start from Nariman Point and wander down as long as you have the energy! Then head back to your hotel and get some rest. You’ve earned it!
Day 2: Culture & Local Life
You are likely to wake up early due to jet lag. Take advantage of it by starting your day at Dhobi Ghat, the world’s largest open-air laundry. From viewing points above the area, you can see dhobis (traditional washermen) handwash, dry, and iron laundry. It is estimated that more than 7,000 dhobis care for 100,000 pieces of laundry per 18-20 hour day. This is a fascinating look at a practice that is unchanged for over 100 years. You can also opt to book an early walking tour to see the laundry and local markets.
You will need to check the tide schedule to figure out when to visit the next thing on our list for today. Standing on a small sublet in the Arabian Sea, Haji Ali Dargah is a stunning 15th century mosque. It is home to the shrine of Sufi saint Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari. Only accessible at low tide, you can walk to it on a causeway surrounded by the ocean.
Another thing on our agenda for today is checking out Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Mumbai’s main railway station. This striking building features Victorian Gothic architecture and Indian design elements and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take some time to admire the ornate, domes, turrets, stained glass, stone carvings, and ironwork.
The rest of the day you will spend in Bandra. This trendy neighborhood has historic Portuguese and modern Indian influences. This is THE place to go for nightlife in Mumbai. You will also enjoy the colorful street art and some of the city’s best dining and shopping. Take some time to visit the gothic Mount Mary Basilica. And take a stroll on the Bandstand promenade to enjoy views of the sea.
Day 3: Choose Your Own Adventure
Tonight we’ll take the quick 1-1.5 hour flight to Goa. Today, you will get to choose how you want to spend your time. Depending on when you depart Mumbai, you will have time to do 1 or 2 of these activities.
Elephanta Caves are a network of cave temples on Elephanta Island. A UNESCO World Heritage Site. These caves date back to the 5th-8th centuries. They feature intricate Hindu sculptures and detailed reliefs. You can explore the main cave and several smaller shrines on the complex. You can access them via ferry from the Gateway of India in Mumbai. Ferries to the caves run every half hour between 9 a.m.-2 p.m. The last ferry back to Mumbai leaves at 5:30 p.m.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is an urban forest reserve covering more than 60 square miles. Lush greenery and hills are home to wildlife like leopards, deer, monkeys, and a variety of birds. You will find its entrance in Borivali, a suburb of Mumbai accessible from any part of the city. The park has hiking trails, or you can opt for a guided safari. While you are there, don’t miss the ancient Kanheri Caves. Dating from the 1st century BCE, these rock-cut Buddhist caves feature sculptures, prayer halls, and inscriptions. Another interesting site within the park is the Shri Trimurthi Jain Mandir temple.
Mumbai’s location along the Arabian Sea make it a great place to enjoy a day at the beach. You should not swim at any of Mumbai’s beaches due to strong currents, undertows, and polluted water. But you can enjoy relaxing in the sand, people-watching, and enjoying some of Mumbai’s famous street food. Popular options include Juhu Beach and Chowpatty Beach.
Mumbai Logistics
Uber and Ola are rideshare options for Mumbai. I think these will be the easiest option for most Western travelers. Just be forewarned that traffic is crazy all over India, and the rules of the road are different from what you normally experience. That’s just part of the cultural immersion!
I recommend you stay in South Mumbai, close to the Gateway of India. If you can afford it, look no further than historic Taj Mahal Palace. If you want to spend a little less, the Hotel Residency Fort is a good option.
Days 4–5: Goa
After choosing your own adventure in Dubai, you will fly into Goa in the evening. Look for a flight that takes you into Dabolim Airport (GOI).
Day 4: Hit the Beach!
We’ve had a busy few days, so today we’ll relax on the beach in Goa! Goa stretches along India’s west coast, offering ample beach access.
If you want a lively atmosphere, check out Calangute Beach or Baga Beach located in northern Goa. These adjacent beaches both offer water sports such as parasailing, jet skiing, banana boat rides, and windsurfing. If these activities sound too taxing, you can still get out on the water by joining a dolphin-watching tour. Or you can simply opt to sunbathe laying on the golden sand and taking a relaxing dip in the warm Arabian Sea. Beach shacks serve fresh seafood, Goan curries, and plenty of refreshing drinks. You will want to stay to watch the sunset, and then linger for the hopping nightlife at beach bars and clubs.
Want a more relaxed vibe? Head south to Palolem Beach. This laid-back beach is scenic and serene. If you are feeling energetic, you can kayak or paddleboard across the calm bay. You can also take dolphin-watching or sunset cruises here. This beach is great for swimming. Yoga sessions and Ayurvedic massages are available on the beach. And at night, the peaceful vibe continues with silent discos where participants dance to music played through headphones.
Day 5: Culture & History
We fly to Dehli tonight, but you still have some time to immerse in the culture and history of Goa. The region was a trading port prior to being colonized by the Portuguese in 1510. This colonization lasted until 1961 when Goa became part of India. Today visitors experience a blend of colonial heritage with Indian traditions. There are several must-see sites to experience the rich history and culture of the region.
The Portuguese brought their Catholic religion to India, and this can be seen in many beautiful churches in Goa. Basilica of Bom Jesus is a 16th century church and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most important Christian pilgrimage sites in Asia and houses the remains of St. Francis Xavier. Another important church in Goa is Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia. The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is perched on a hill and is striking with it’s white exterior and grand symmetrical staircases.
If you like military history, you must make time to visit the area’s forts. Fort Aguada is a well-preserved 17th century Portuguese fort that overlooks the Arabian Sea. Visitors can see the fort’s massive bulwarks, huge cistern, on-site church, and historic lighthouse. For a small fee, you can climb up a newer lighthouse for great view. Chapora Fort is much older and was standing when the Portuguese colonized the area. Today it is in ruins but well worth a visit, especially at sunset.
Finally, you must take time to visit Fontainhas, the colorful Portuguese-style Latin Quarter. You will enjoy strolling through the colorful streets of pastel houses with red-tiled roofs. Browse through art galleries and shops, then take a break at one of the many cafes and bakeries offering Goan sweets.
Goa Logistics
I often see people recommending renting a scooter or bike to get around, but I think it’s much safer to rely on a rideshare. The rideshare service operating in Goa is called GoaMiles.
Where you stay likely depends on what beach experience you want. If you want the lively Calangute Beach or Baga Beach, stay in Panjim. This gives you easy access to the culture and history of Old Goa and is only 30 minutes from these beaches. Or you can make it easy and just visit the nearby Miramar Beach. Check out the Fortune Miramar or the Hotel Park Prime Goa.
If you want to visit Palolem Beach, it is located about an hour and a half from Panjim. You could still stay in Panjim, but you will commit 3+ hours driving there and back. So it’s probably best to stay in southern Goa. A great option is the all-inclusive The LaLiT Golf & Spa Resort. On day 5, you will check out of your hotel and make your way to Panjim to see the historical and cultural sites after storing your luggage. After spending the day touring, make your way to the airport and take the 2.5 hour flight to New Delhi.
Days 6–8: Delhi & Day Trips to Agra & Jaipur
We are going to pack a lot into our three days in northern India! We will base ourselves in Delhi, the capital city of India.
Day 6: Delhi
Morning
Today we a full day exploring all of the major sites in Delhi! Uber and Ola are rideshares in Delhi, and we’ll be relying on them a lot today. Or book a private driver for the day.
Start your Delhi adventure at the Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that symbolizes the rich Mughal history of India. Built in the 17th century by Emperor Shah Jahan, the fort’s red sandstone walls and intricate marble interiors reflect royal grandeur. Then take a 15 minute walk over to Jama Masjid, one of India’s largest mosques. It offers stunning Mughal architecture and sweeping views of Old Delhi from its minaret. Climb the steps, remove your shoes, and take in the peaceful atmosphere amid the city’s lively chaos.
Afternoon
It will be about time for lunch, so let’s go to Connaught Place. It’s circular hub mixes colonial architecture with cosmopolitan charm. Look for legendary street food like chaat, momos, or butter chicken at legendary eateries such as Saravana Bhavan or Odeon Sweets.
After a lunch break, Humayun’s Tomb is next on our itinerary. The monument rises gracefully from its symmetrical gardens, showcasing red sandstone walls, white marble details, and perfectly balanced proportions. Its lush gardens and symmetrical design create a serene oasis.
Now it’s time to spend a few minutes wandering around India Gate. It rises proudly at the heart of New Delhi as a symbol of sacrifice and national pride. Then make your way to shop ’til you drop at Dilli Haat. This colorful open-air market that rotates artisans from across India and is a great place to find unique souvenirs.
The final stop on our itinerary is Qutub Minar. This UNESCO World Heritage Site towers majestically over its surroundings, showcasing the brilliance of early Indo-Islamic architecture. Try to arrive at golden hour for the best photos.
Day 7: Day Trip to Agra
No trip to India is complete without visiting the Taj Mahal, located in Agra. Mughal emperor Shah Jahan built the majestic building in the 17th century in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Taj Mahal is considered one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture and one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Logistics
Agra is easiest to get to from Delhi by a train called the Gatimaan Express. It departs Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station at 8:10 a.m. and arrives at Agra’s Catonment Board Agra at 9:50 a.m. Then you can make your way around to the sites via Uber and Ola. But if you just don’t want to deal with any of this yourself, you can book a private train or car tour. The train tour is much more expensive, but Agra is located 4 hours away by car, so it’s a little less taxing.
Itinerary
You will want to get to the Taj Mahal early as crowds build throughout the day, so we will go there first. Spend a few hours exploring the main mausoleum, marveling at the detailed inlay work and the delicate calligraphy that adorns its walls. Pause to admire the reflecting pool, which mirrors the monument’s elegance, and enjoy the view of the Yamuna River from the nearby terraces.
Agra Fort is next door. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a former Mughal palace. Inside the massive red sandstone walls are elegant royal palaces, audience halls, and mosques you can explore. You will also see great views of the Taj Mahal in the background.
Next we visit Itmad-ud-daula. This Mughal mausoleum bears a striking resemblance to the Taj and is often referred to as the “Baby Taj.” Enjoy wandering around it’s glorious gardens and admiring the inlayed white marble and lattice screens.
Our final stop before heading back to Delhi is Mehtab Bagh. This is a garden where you will see the Taj from a different perspective. Go during golden hour for the best light and experience.
Day 8: Day Trip to Jaipur
I’ll be honest – Jaipur is about five hours away from Delhi, which makes it a difficult day trip. But you may prefer to carve a day or two out of this two weeks in India itinerary to allow for at least one overnight stay in Jaipur. But a day trip to Jaipur from Delhi can be done. I recommend talking a private guided tour.
Head toward Jaipur, the Pink City, to explore its royal heritage and vibrant culture. The journey winds through the Rajasthan countryside, with glimpses of arid landscapes, small villages, and bustling roadside markets.
Upon arriving in Jaipur, go to the Amber Fort. Climb its ramparts to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills and Maota Lake. The fort’s intricate carvings, grand courtyards, and majestic halls reflect the opulence of Rajput architecture.
Next, explore the City Palace. Marvel at its fusion of Rajput and Mughal styles, with ornate gates, courtyards, and museums showcasing royal artifacts. You should also visit the Hawa Mahal royal palace. Its honeycomb façade captures the essence of Jaipur’s architectural charm. You can go inside to see it’s narrow corridors, bed chambers, and 953 small windows that allowed royal women to look outside.
Before returning to Delhi, wander through local bazaars, sampling Rajasthani cuisine and shopping for handicrafts.
Delhi Hotel
I recommend you stay in the Connaught Place neighborhood. The Lalit New Delhi hotel is a nice option. If you want a true bargain, check out Hotel Hari Piorko.
Days 9–10: Bangalore (Bengaluru) & Day Trip to Mysore
Bangalore, now officially known as Bengaluru, is India’s dynamic “Garden City” and the hub of its booming tech industry. The city was known as Bangalore prior to 2014 when it was changed back to its historic name of Bengaluru. You will hear it referred to as both. We’ll spend one day touring the city and another on a day trip to Mysore.
Day 9: Bangalore (Bengaluru)
This morning we’ll take the earliest flight to Bangalore from Dehli that we can find. The flight is nonstop but takes about three hours. Once you arrive, drop your bags at your hotel and head first to Lalbagh Botanical Garden, home to over 1,800 plant species. Spend about an hour wandering through the gardens, then go to Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace. This 18th century palace is constructed entirely of teak and features hand-painted floral designs and the original golden throne.
Next we’ll go to Cubbon Park, a green oasis amid Bangalore’s bustling streets. Take a short stroll through the lush tree-lined paths, then walk over to Vidhana Soudha. This is Bangalore’s most iconic landmark which houses the state legislature of Karnataka.
Our next stop is Bangalore Palace. This architectural gem was inspired by England’s Windsor Castle. Wander through its grand halls, stained-glass windows, and lavish interiors that echo tales of the Wodeyar dynasty. If you have kids with you, you will probably have to spend the rest of the day at Fun World. It is an amusement park inside the palace complex!
But hopefully you won’t waste your time at a theme park doing things you can do anywhere. If you can drag your travel companions away, then your last stop of the day is ISKCON Temple. Climb the steps to reach the temple complex to admire the beautifully decorated shrines, listen to devotional chants filling the air, and get a panoramic view of the city. Inside, intricate carvings, vibrant murals, and illuminated altars create a sense of peace and devotion.
This day is ambitious, so it’s probably best to book a private guided tour. But you can make your way around on your own using Uber or Ola.
Day 10: Day Trip to Mysore
We will leave early for our day trip to Mysore (Mysuru). It’s about 3 hours by direct train or 3.5 hours by car. If you want true ease, consider this private tour. If you want to do it on your own, numerous express trains make the journey between the two cities. The ones you take depends on how early you want to leave (as early as 4 a.m.!) and how late you want to return.
Upon reaching Mysore, head straight to the magnificent Mysore Palace, to admire its grand domes, ornate interiors, and beautifully decorated halls. The palace’s blend of Indo-Saracenic architecture and royal heritage creates a striking first impression.
After exploring the palace, stop at Chamundi Hills, to check out the Chamundeshwari Temple and take in panoramic views of the city below. The calm atmosphere and spiritual significance of the site add depth to the experience. Enjoy lunch in the city to sample local dishes like Mysore masala dosa or traditional South Indian meals.
Then spend the afternoon exploring attractions such as St. Philomena’s Church, the bustling Devaraja Market, or the peaceful Brindavan Gardens near the Krishnarajasagara Dam.
Bangalore Hotel
If you have deep pockets, look no further than the Leela Palace Bengarluru. A more moderately priced option is the Taj MG Road Bengaluru.
Days 11–14: State of Kerala
We will spend the final days of our two weeks in India exploring the state of Kerela.
Day 11: Kochi (Cochin)
Today we take a quick 1.5 hour flight from Bangalore (Bengaluru) to Kochi. One you arrive, drop your luggage at your hotel and go out to explore. Our first stop is the historic neighborhood called Fort Kochi. Wander around to admire the colonial architecture and bungalows. You can visit St. Francis Church, India’s first Christian church, and the Santa Cruz Basilica in this area. And don’t miss the Chinese Fishing Nets, 10 meter-high cantilevered structures made of teak and bamboo on Fort Kochi beach.
Next, make your way over to the Mattancherry area of town. Here you will want to spend some time in Jew Town, a narrow street known for antique stores and spice markets. Browse through the shops, and take a look at Paradesi Synagogue dating from the 17th century. You should also tour the Mattancherry Dutch Palace, a Dutch building that is now the home of a Hindu temple.
If you have time, a visit to the Kerela Folklore Museum is highly recommended. This architectural museum has more than 4000 artifacts spanning more than 1000 years. Then head back to Fort Kochi to see a cultural show at the Great K V Kathakali Center in the evening.
Day 12-14: Choose Your Own Adventure
We have a tough choice to make. If we only have two weeks to spend in India, we can’t do it all. So you will need to choose how your vacation ends – with a wildlife safari experience, or spending the night on a houseboat.
Choice 1: Wildlife
From Kochi on day 12, we’ll first drive about 3-4 hours to Munnar. It is famous for its tea estates, spice farms, and waterfalls. This is a travel day, so we don’t have a lot of time to linger. But it’s worth a stop to wander through one of the endless tea gardens. You should also visit the Munnar Tea Museum to learn more about tea processing. And go to Top Station for panoramic views of the area.
Then we’ll continue our journey to Periyar Tiger Reserve. This will take another 3-4 hours. You might be able to catch one of the resort-led night walks or campfire storytelling sessions when you arrive.
On day 13, we will spend the day and another night at Periyar Tiger Reserve. Start early with a boat safari on Periyar Lake to see elephants, deer, boars, and birds. Or you can opt for a jeep safari and look for tigers, gaur, langurs, and hornbills. Then you can take advantage of the many diverse offerings at the reserve for the rest of the day.
Day 14 will start with another safari- opt for whatever you did not do the day before. Then it’s back on the road for a 3-4 hour drive to Kochin. You should be able to get a late afternoon or evening flight back to the United States from Kochin.
Choice 2: Houseboat on the Backwaters
Part of the charm of this region in India is the many houseboats floating along the lagoons and canals running parallel to the Arabian Sea. Kerela houseboats are called kettuvallam. Historically, they were used to carry heavy loads of spices, rice, and other goods. They offered living spaces to boatmen and their families.
Today these houseboats are no longer used for transport. Instead, they serve the tourism market. You can book your very own houseboat that comes with its own crew! You will cruise up and down the backwaters, admiring the scenery, and enjoying delicious local dishes included in your package.
On day 12, we make the quick 1.5 hour drive to Alleppey (Alappuzha). Arrive by noon in order to board your houseboat. Select the 3 day/2 night option from Alleppey to Kochi. Today you will cruise the canals of this area, admiring the villages passing by, and taking the best sunset cruise of your life! The boat will dock near Kumarakom overnight.
Day 13 is spent cruising towards Kochi, stopping in villages along the way. You will spend another night on the boat feeling pampered by your very own boat crew and chef.
On our final day, we take a sunrise cruise while enjoying breakfast. The boat will dock and check out is at 9 a.m. Then you can explore any sites you missed in Kochi while you wait for early afternoon or evening flight back to reality.
Kerela Logistics
I wish I could just tell you that you could rent a car and drive all around the state of Kerela on your own. But I don’t advise you to drive in India as it has high-density traffic driving on the “wrong” side of the road with very different road sharing culture than you are likely used to.
You can easily get around Kochi with Uber or Ola. If you choose the option to visit Munnar and Periyar Tiger Reserve, then you can book a private car and driver to take you there and back. The Alleppey to Kochi houseboat option is a little easier. You can take a train or hire a taxi to get there.
In Kochi, I recommend you stay at the Fragrant Nature Kochi. If you are visiting Periyar Tiger Reserve, stay at The Elephant Court. Of course, if you choose the houseboat option, you are all set!
How to Adapt this India Itinerary
I’ll be honest – this two week India itinerary is super ambitious. There’s little time for relaxation. If something goes wrong (and it probably will), then you might miss out on entire sections of this itinerary. And I was even forced to make you make a choice on how to spend your time in Kerela, my favorite part of India! So here are some options for adapt this itinerary.
14 Days at a Slower Pace or with Flights
If you need want to move at a slower pace or you want flights to fit into the 14 days you have, you will need to cut out one or two places I recommend. Don’t like the beach? Then skip Goa, which will give you two extra days. If you want to keep Goa, then ditch Bangalore. Honestly, on my first trip to India, Bangalore was my favorite city. But on my second trip to India a decade later, I found it to be an unpleasant concrete jungle. This does sacrifice the day trip to Mysore, which is too bad. But I think the other day trips on this itinerary are better anyway. And if you eliminate both Goa and Bangalore, you will have more time to spend in Kerela doing both options I recommended. Honestly, that’s what I would do!
Longer than 14 Days or Two Trips
If you have longer than two weeks, spread this itinerary over another week. Add a day in Delhi to see more of the sites there. And stay at least one night in Jaipur, and maybe Agra as well. Then do both of the options I presented in Kerela.
Perhaps better yet, take two 8-10 day trips to India! The first trip could be flying in and out of Delhi. Then you would spend 3-4 days in Delhi, 1-2 days in Agra, and 2 days in Jaipur. The second trip you would fly into Mumbai. Spend 2-3 days in Mumbai, 2 days in Goa, 2 days in Bangalore, 1 day in Mysore, and 3 days in Kerela.
What’s on Your India Itinerary?
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