10 day India itinerary: How to spend 10 days in India

India is a country of fascinating diversity, beckoning with its kaleidoscope of colors, cultures, and landscapes. Are you looking for a 10-day India itinerary? In this guide, we present 4 different itineraries, each a carefully curated blend of experiences, ensuring that every moment of your stay in India leaves an indelible mark on your soul. 

The Taj Mahal glowing red at morning sunrise along the rear riverbank of the holy Jamuna river in Agra © Shutterstock

The Taj Mahal sunrise © Shutterstock

Itinerary #1: India: from the Ganges to the Golden Triangle

Dive into the heart of India with this 10-day itinerary, weaving through the chaotic charm of Delhi, the vibrant streets of Jaipur, and the timeless beauty of Agra’s Taj Mahal. This journey is designed to give you the best of India's famed Golden Triangle and a spiritual glimpse of Varanasi’s sacred rituals.

On day one in Delhi, your adventure kicks off with an afternoon city tour, easing you into the whirlwind of sights, sounds, and scents. By day two, you’re off to Varanasi - India’s spiritual soul -where an evening river cruise on the Ganges lets you witness the hypnotic glow of the candlelit Puja ceremony.

Day three brings another chance to experience the mystical power of the Ganges with a serene morning ceremony. On day four, a flight whisks you to Khajuraho, where you'll explore its world-famous temples, known for their intricate carvings and sensual art.

On day five, you’ll venture to the quieter but equally captivating temples of Orchha. Then comes the highlight of day six: the Taj Mahal. Words don’t do it justice - you’ll just have to see it to believe it. The day continues with a visit to Agra Fort, another gem of the Golden Triangle. Day seven transports you to the ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri, a haunting reminder of India’s Mughal history.

By day eight, you're deep in the vibrant culture of Jaipur, where palaces and markets await. Day nine gives you time to explore Jaipur at your own pace - shop, wander, and soak up the city’s energy - before heading back to Delhi.

Your 10-day Indian adventure wraps up on day ten, as you catch your flight home from Delhi International Airport.

Khajuraho, India © Shutterstock

Khajuraho, India © Shutterstock

Itinerary overview

Check this overview of the 10-day India itinerary:

Day 1

  • Arrival in Delhi and City Tour.
  • Overnight in Delhi.

Day 2

  • Candlelight Puja Ceremony.
  • Overnight in Varanasi.

Day 3

  • Ganges River Morning Ceremony.
  • Overnight in Varanasi.

Day 4

  • The Temples of Khajuraho.
  • Overnight in Khajuraho.

Day 5

  • Visit the Temples of Orchha.
  • Overnight in Agra.

Day 6

  • Taj Mahal and Agra Fort.
  • Overnight in Agra.

Day 7

  • Fatehpur Sikri Visit. Consider extending your trip to include a visit to Ranthambore National Park, a renowned wildlife sanctuary known for its Bengal tiger population, and safari game drives.
  • Overnight in Jaipur.

Day 8

  • Amber Fort and City Palace in Jaipur.
  • Overnight in Jaipur.

Day 9

  • Shopping in Jaipur.
  • Overnight in Jaipur.

Day 10

  • Transfer and departure.

Ready to embark on an adventure? Book your trip now.

Alleppey, Kerala, India © Christian Ouellet/Shutterstock

Alleppey, Kerala, India © Christian Ouellet/Shutterstock

Itinerary #2: Kerala – God’s Own Country

South India is sensory overload in the best sense of the word. Imagine lush green tea plantations, bustling spice markets, and serene waters. This 10 day itinerary for India will immerse you in the beauty of Kerala, known as the 'God’s Own Country'.

Day one begins in Cochin, where you'll be whisked to your hotel to settle in. The real adventure starts on day two with a scenic drive to Munnar, a hill station that feels like it’s been plucked from a postcard.

On day three, you'll lace up your boots for a trek to Anamudi, South India’s highest peak, before visiting a local tea factory to see firsthand how Kerala's famous tea is made. Day four takes you to Thekkady, where you’ll check into your hotel and prepare for the wild side of Kerala.

Day five kicks off with a jungle walk through Periyar National Park. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants and exotic birds as you explore the rich biodiversity of the region. On day six, you’ll head to Kumarakom, a peaceful village on the banks of Vembanad Lake.

Day seven brings one of Kerala’s highlights: a stay on a traditional kettuvallam, or houseboat, in Alleppey. Drift along the backwaters and soak in the palm-fringed scenery as you glide past local villages. On day eight, you’ll disembark and head to Mararikulam for some serious beach time. Sink your feet into the soft sand and watch the sun dip below the horizon.

Day nine is all about relaxation. Whether you spend the day lounging on Marari Beach or indulging in an Ayurvedic massage, this is your time to unwind. On day ten, you’ll return to Cochin and catch your flight home, carrying the peace and beauty of Kerala with you.

Munnar landscape in Kerala, India © Shutterstock

Munnar landscape in Kerala, India © Shutterstock

Itinerary overview

Check this overview of the 10-day India itinerary:

Day 1

  • Arrival in Cochin.
  • Overnight in Cochin.

Day 2

  • From Cochin to Munnar.
  • Overnight in Munnar.

Day 3

  • Munnar - Anamudi Trek and Tea Factory visit.
  • Overnight in Munnar.

Day 4

  • From Munnar to Periyar.
  • Overnight in Periyar.

Day 5

  • Thekkady - Half Day Trek and Spice Plantation.
  • Overnight in Periyar.

Day 6

  • From Periyar to Kumarakom.
  • Overnight in Kumarakom.

Day 7

  • Kumarakom - Alleppey - Houseboat.
  • Overnight in a houseboat.

Day 8

  • From Alleppey to Mararikulam.
  • Overnight in Mararikulam.

Day 9

  • Free Day at Marari Beach.
  • Overnight in Mararikulam.

Day 10

  • From Mararikulam to Cochin.
  • Transfer and Departure.

Feeling curious? Take a step forward and book this trip now.

Golden Temple, Amritsar, India © Shutterstock

Golden Temple, Amritsar, India © Shutterstock

Itinerary #3: North India Explored — From Delhi to Shimla

This 10-day itinerary takes you deep into the heart of northern India, from bustling cities to serene mountain retreats.

Day one starts with your arrival in Delhi, giving you time to relax and settle in. Day two dives into the contrasts of Delhi - explore both its historic landmarks and modern hustle.

On day three, you’ll fly to Amritsar to visit the stunning Golden Temple and the poignant Jallianwala Bagh memorial. Day four takes you on a scenic drive to Dharamshala, home to the Dalai Lama and the peaceful Thekchen Chöling temple.

Day five brings you to McLeod Ganj, a Tibetan hub with a unique atmosphere. On day six, you’ll head further into the Himalayas to Shimla, once the summer retreat of British India.

Day seven is all about discovering Shimla’s colonial charm. Day eight adds a touch of nostalgia with a heritage toy train ride from Shimla to Kalka, followed by a swift return to Delhi on the Shatabdi Express.

Day nine is free for you to explore Delhi at your own pace. On day ten, you’ll depart from Delhi International Airport, completing your North India adventure.

Shimla, India © Shutterstock

Shimla, India © Shutterstock

Itinerary overview

Check this overview of the India 10-day itinerary:

Day 1

  • Arrival in Delhi and afternoon at leisure.
  • Overnight in Delhi.

Day 2

  • Delhi: Old and New.
  • Overnight in Delhi.

Day 3

  • Golden Temple at Amritsar.
  • Overnight in Amritsar.

Day 4

  • Dharamshala Transfer.
  • Overnight in Dharamshala.

Day 5

  • McLeod Ganj Discovery.
  • Overnight in Dharamshala.

Day 6

  • Transfer to Shimla.
  • Overnight in Shimla.

Day 7

  • Shimla Exploration.
  • Overnight in Shimla.

Day 8

  • Himalayan Heritage Toy Train Adventure.
  • Overnight in Delhi.

Day 9

  • Free Day in Delhi.
  • Overnight in Delhi.

Day 10

  • Transfer and Departure.

Feeling curious? Take a step forward and book this trip now.

Sunset over chinese fishing nets boat in Cochin, Kochi, India © johnnychaos/Shutterstock

Chinese fishing nets, boat in Cochin, Kochi, India © johnnychaos/Shutterstock

Itinerary #4: Magical Kerala

This 10-day itinerary lets you experience the rich culture and natural beauty of South India.

Day one begins with a half-day tour of Cochin (Kochi), where colonial architecture meets vibrant street life. On day two, you’ll head to Munnar to visit cardamom plantations, learning about this spice in the lush Cardamom Hills

Day three is yours to explore Munnar’s scenic surroundings or simply relax. On day four, you’ll travel to Madurai to visit the grand Tirumala Nayak Palace.

Day five takes you to Kumily, where you’ll enjoy an evening of local sightseeing. Day six offers a peaceful boat ride on Periyar Lake, set within the wildlife-rich Periyar National Park.

Day seven is a free day in Periyar - hike, relax, or take in more of the park’s wildlife. On day eight, after a leisurely morning, you’ll move on to your next destination. Day nine brings you back to Cochin, where you have a full day to explore or unwind at your own pace.

Finally, on day ten, you’ll depart from Cochin airport, wrapping up your magical Kerala journey.

Periyar Park National, India © Shutterstock

Periyar Park National, India © Shutterstock

Itinerary overview

Check this overview of the 10-day India itinerary:

Day 1

  • Half-Day Cochin City Tour.
  • Overnight in Cochin.

Day 2

  • Cardamom Plantation.
  • Overnight in Munnar.

Day 3

  • Free Day in Munnar.
  • Overnight in Munnar.

Day 4

  • Madurai City Tour.
  • Overnight in Madurai.

Day 5

  • Visit Kumily.
  • Overnight in Thekkady.

Day 6

  • Boat Ride on Lake Periyar.
  • Overnight in Thekkady.

Day 7

  • Free Day in Periyar.
  • Overnight in Thekkady.

Day 8

  • Day in Kumarakom followed by departure to Cochin.
  • Overnight in Cochin.

Day 9

  • Day at leisure.
  • Overnight in Cochin.

Day 10

  • Transfer and departure.

Excited to discover? Waste no time and book this trip now.

Browse our customizable India itineraries or talk to our local India travel experts.

Olga Sitnitsa

written by
Olga Sitnitsa

updated 28.10.2024

Online editor at Rough Guides, specialising in travel content. Passionate about creating compelling stories and inspiring others to explore the world.

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