2 Weeks in India: Classic Varanasi & Rajasthan

Wondering about the best way to spend your first trip to India? Explore this classic 2-week India itinerary, designed for beginners, as you travel through Rajasthan, Delhi, and Varanasi. Combining iconic landmarks and royal heritage, enjoy a classic introduction to northern India at a well-paced pace, without rushing or experiencing cultural overload.

How to Spend 2 Weeks in India during Your First Visit

For most first-time travelers, two weeks is ideal for exploring the North triangle with the classic India highlights, rather than trying to cover the entire country.

India is vast, diverse, and intense. You can usually allow about two days per city, including roughly half a day for getting from place to place. Attempting to mix North and South, or adding beaches and mountains, often leads to long travel days and fatigue for your first visit (if this is you ask to, let our Indian travel expert make your schedule).

Based on experience with first-time visitors, we recommend the following classic India 2-week itinerary that covers India's essentials in Delhi, the Ganges plain, and Rajasthan, often considered the best India itinerary for first-time visitors:

Delhi – Varanasi – Agra – Jaipur – Pushkar – Jodhpur – Ranakpur – Udaipur

What to Expect in This Classic India Itinerary

Simply speaking, this 2-week India itinerary is immersive but not exhausting, ideal for travelers new to this country. You will get an introduction to Indian culture and history on this 14-day adventure.

Beginning and concluding with energetic and chaotic in Delhi, then moving toward smaller towns and slower rhythms. Capture the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, and the Mughal monuments and Hindu rituals along the Ganges River in Varanasi. Fully embrace the splendor of Rajasthan's color-coded cities - Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur - where historical temples, palaces, and forts await.

Where to Go

Day	Things to Do	Overnight
Day 1 - 2	Qutub Minar, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, Humayun's Tomb, India Gate	Delhi
Day 3 - 4	Aarti Ceremony, Ganges River Boat Ride, Indian Yoga Class, Sarnath Deer Park	Varanasi
Day 5 - 6	Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Local Family Visit	Agra
Day 7 - 8	Fatehpur Sikri, Amber Fort, Sheesh Mahal, Nahargarh Fort, Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar	Jaipur
Day 9	Pushkar Lake, Brahma Temple	Pushkar
Day 10 - 11	Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, Bishnoi Village Jeep Safari	Jodhpur
Day 12 - 13	Ranakpur Jain Temples, Lake Pichola Boat Ride, Sajjan Garh Palace, Jagdish Temple	Udaipur
Day 14	Delhi Departure	-

Classic India Itinerary in 2 Weeks

Day 1 - 2: Welcome to Incredible Delhi

Start your India adventure by exploring Delhi's mix of old and new, from the historic districts to the modern areas. As the itinerary returns here at the end, a shorter stay works well.

What to See & Do in Old Delhi

In the Old Delhi city tour, famous attractions include Jama Masjid, a 17th-century mosque and UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Red Fort, originally referred to as the 'blessed fort' as it was the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty.

Moreover, you will gain a unique insight into local life as you explore the bustling local bazaar of Chandni Chowk on a rickshaw.

What to See & Do in New Delhi

In New Delhi, visit sights like Qutub Minar, Gandhi Smriti, and Humayun's Tomb (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Take in notable landmarks such as India Gate, the President's House, and Parliament House as you pass by, with opportunities to pause for photos. Explore the colorful Hindu Temple - Laxmi Narayan Temple - for a glimpse into local religious practices.

Day 3 - 4: Spiritual Varanasi

• Highlights: Evening Ganga Aarti, Ganges River sunrise, Indian Yoga Class, Sarnath's Deer Park

On your 3rd day, fly to Varanasi and experience its spirituality, culture, and history from the spiritual Evening Ganga Aarti, in which priests perform ancient rituals to honor the holy river and the Gods.

The next day, savor an early morning moment watching the sunrise over the serene Ganges River. Then, take a leisurely walk through the charming, narrow lanes of Bengali Tola, soaking in the local atmosphere and connecting with the lively community.

If time permits, experience an authentic Indian Yoga Class to unwind. Another place to explore is Sarnath, also known as the Deer Park, where Buddha delivered his inaugural sermon. And there is a Sarnath Museum showcasing Buddhist art and culture.

The Ganges River

Day 5 - 6: Agra, Home to the Iconic Taj Mahal

• Highlights: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Indian lunch with a local family

Back to Delhi by a morning flight on your 5th day. After a 4-hour comfortable private car ride, Agra is your next destination for exploring the rich Mughal heritage.

The Taj Mahal, a symbol of eternal love and breathtaking beauty, awaits your visit on the 6th day's early morning, offering the splendor of sunrise over this magnificent architecture. Agra Fort, also a majestic UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases its stunning red sandstone architecture and intricate marble detailing.

If this sparks your curiosity, savor an authentic Indian lunch with a local family. Don't miss the chance to try Masala Chai - Indian Spice Milk Tea - for a taste of true Indian hospitality and culture.

Day 7 - 8: Jaipur, the Pink City

• Highlights: Fatehpur Sikri, Amber Fort, Jantar Mantar, City Palace, Hawa Mahal

On the way to Jaipur (about a 5-hour drive from Agara), you can visit Fatehpur Sikri, a remarkable city built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century. Known for its stunning architecture and intricate craftsmanship, it served as the Mughal capital for a short time.

Your 8th day of the classic India itinerary begins with discovering the vibrant sights of this 'Pink City' as you embark on a journey through its rich history and majestic landmarks. Hop on a jeep to reach the entrance of Amber Fort atop the hill, entering the glorious era of Rajput kings, and gain an understanding of the luxurious lifestyle they led. Return to the city to see the Jantar Mantar observatory and the City Palace. Don't miss the iconic Hawa Mahal, a must-visit spot for photography enthusiasts.

Hawa Mahal, Jaipur

Day 9: Pushkar, the Desert Oasis

• Highlights: Pushkar Lake, Brahma Temple

Nestled alongside the sacred Pushkar Lake, the town of Pushkar shows tranquility and spirituality for your 9th day's relaxation. Take a stroll around the lake, where pilgrims and sadhus gather to pray. Explore the revered Brahma Temple, the only temple in the world where Hindus worship Lord Brahma.

Day 10 - 11: Jodhpur, the Blue City

• Highlights: Mehrangarh Fort, Flying Fox activity, Jaswant Thada, jeep safari to Bishnoi Village

After a 4-hour drive is Jodhpur, known as the "Blue City" for its azure-hued buildings, is a captivating destination in Rajasthan. Venture into rural life with a jeep safari to Bishnoi Village first, offering a refreshing change from the forts and temples. Wander through the bustling Clock Tower area, where you will find local markets that are full of textiles, silver, and handicrafts.

Continue your 11th day with its crown jewel, Mehrangarh Fort, which towers over the city, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into its royal past. Here, you can try the Flying Fox activity and experience the thrill of zip line adventure, which offers breathtaking views of the fort.

If you feel like seeing something different, a serene white marble memorial to visit is Jaswant Thada, showcasing the rich history and Rajput culture of the region.

Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur

Day 12 - 13: Udaipur, the White City

• Highlights: Ranakpur Jain Temples, Garden of the Maids of Honor, Jagdish Temple, boat ride on Lake Pichola

Head to Udaipur on the 12th day, and during the journey, visit Ranakpur Jain Temples, constructed entirely of marble and supported by over 1,444 exquisitely carved marble pillars, each unique in its design.

Udaipur, known as the "City of Lakes," is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and marble architecture. The Rajput kings favored white marble for their palaces, giving the city its distinctive white color scheme.

Begin your 13th day's Udaipur exploration from the markets and bazaars, where you will visit the Jagdish Temple and admire the majestic City Palace. People like to enjoy a tranquil boat ride on Lake Pichola, which is famous for its spellbinding sunsets. The Garden of the Maids of Honor and the Folk Art Museum are also places for you to visit.

You can conclude the day with an unforgettable sunset visit to the Sajjan Garh Palace (Monsoon Palace) before flying back to Delhi to board your international flight home with unforgettable memories of India.

Contact Odynovo to Create Your Journey

Join us on this extraordinary adventure through India's most iconic destinations, where every moment is a new discovery and every experience is a cherished memory. Prepare to be enchanted, inspired, and forever changed by the beauty and richness of this incredible land. Whether you seek classic exploration or something beyond the ordinary, we've got you covered!