Planning a trip to India? Looking for some tips on the best places to visit in north India? Good news fellow travellers, we have compiled this list of top places to visit in north India for aone month India itinerary….YUSSS!
We have chosen the following 8 best places in North India. All are unique and beautiful in their own way. Visiting the locations in this order will flow well and make for the most sense for transport and logistics.
The Perfect 1 Month Itinerary in India:
- DELHI: 3 Days
- RISHIKESH: 4 Days
- LALURI: 4 Days
- AGRA: 3 Days
- ORCHHA: 4 Days
- UDAIPUR: 4 Days
- JODHPUR: 3 Days
- JAISALMER: 4 Days
Total Days: 29
India, India, India…..a beautiful mystery, so full of challenges but also allure and charm. A polarising place. A place you either love to love or love to hate. We spent 5 months travelling to many places in India and are self proclaimed lovers of this endearing and exciting country.
India is a diverse country with hundreds of languages and many cultures within. You could say it is a world of its own, you would need a lifetime to explore it all! Even after so long travelling in India we still feel like we have only scratched the surface.
When we meet fellow travellers, we always enjoy telling them our India travel stories and letting them know the most spectacular destinations in India. We want them to have an epic time, so that they will love the country as much as we do.
So this article is our way of sharing our favourite places in India to help fellow travellers everywhere fall in love with India too. In this post we reveal the diverse sides of the country and some of the best highlights in north India, on and off the beaten path, so that you can have the most exciting and rewarding trip possible. (without trying to fit too much in!) We are sharing with you our perfect one month north India itinerary.
After 5months travelling across India, this is the itinerary we would recommend to all our friends and family. We have listed each location, given them all a brief introduction, and shared our notes on transport, accommodation and activities. So without further ado, we present to you our best places to visit in north India, for aone monthitinerary in India.
1. DELHI
Recommended Stay: 3 Days
Starting in Delhi as this is a convenient place to fly into from almost anywhere in the world. A massivemetropolitan area and capital of India, Delhi is beautiful chaos waiting to be discovered. It might not be the most picturesque place in India. However, it is overflowing with colour, bustle, culture, food and history. Talk about jumping into the deep end! But hey what better way to be welcomed to India?
You might be thinking, Delhi = Delhi belly, no doubt this could happen, but we found a great article that can help you survive street food while travelling. We can vouch for all the tips in this article!
Top 3 things to do in Delhi:
1. Embark on a Food tourin Delhi and introduce yourself to the delectable flavours of Indian cuisine. My grandparents actually did theMantra Food tour in Old Delhiand loved it, so we can definitely recommend it. If you want to tour the streets on your own and experiment with Indian flavours, we created thisTop 8 Indian Dishesarticle, to help you find some yummy food options.
2. Explore Old Delhiand have a sensory overload to start your one month India itinerary off with a bang! Old Delhi is surely an experience, a place where life and culture takes place on the streets for all to see. The sights, smells, colours, crowds and markets might leave you jaw dropped. Some highlights in Old Delhi are Chandni Chowk, Chowri Bazar and the Spice market along Khari Baoli.
3. Visit Akshardham Temple & Water Show,a modern temple complex built in 2005 which architecturally, pays homage to traditional Indian Hindu buildings. The complex is large and equally as stunning, with elaborate and intricately carved structures that will blow your mind.
There is also an impressive water show which lasts for 24 minutes and is well worth a watch. We weren’t expecting much when we brought our tickets, but the show exceeded all our expectations! Show times start at 6:15 PM & 7:15 PM and costs Rs80.
Quick Tip: No electronic items are allowed inside the complex, we would also suggest leaving your bag in the car and just bringing your wallet to avoid the bag check line.
As well as hotels & guests houses we also recommend Workaway and Couchsurfing for those travellers who want a very local experience and/or to save $$. You can read more about them here.
ShoeString:
Moustache Hostel Delhi,a hostel in India with good wifi? That’s something money can’t buy, no honestly I don’t think we ever got good wifi in India once. Luckily, reviewers claim that this beauty has the good wifi! Moustache Hostel is a modern hostel with raving reviews offering dorm beds and private rooms. Price Approx: Rs400/$5USD |
Moustache Hostel Delhi
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Budget:
Meditation Palace, wow this is is value for money right here! Featuring large clean rooms each with private balconies and air conditioning. What’s best is Meditation Palace has a very friendly host who will make your stay just that much better! Price Approx: Rs1,200/$17USD |
Meditation Palace
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Midrange: |
Haveli Hauz Khas
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Lux: |
Maidens Hotel
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2. RISHIKESH
Recommended Stay: 4 Days
Rishikesh one of the best places to visit in north India and one of our top rated India destinations. Located in the northern state of Uttarakhand, nestled in the foothills of the Himalaya, Rishikesh is a charming town on the banks of the mighty Ganges river.
The natural beauty here will take your breath away and there is no shortage of cultural wonders. Rishikesh is a holy pilgrimage site and many sadhus and devotees from across India travel here to worship and bath in the ganges.
Although it is clearly on the tourist path, the vibe here is very relaxed and you can really find your zen moments here while relaxing in a riverfront cafe or watching the sunset on the Ganges. We caught ourselves zenning out a few times ourselves. You can checkout our Rishikesh adventures in our travel video:
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You can watch the Arti Ceremony in two locations one is in old Rishikesh at the Triveni Ghat and the other in Laxman both start at about 5:30pm.
2. Swim in the Ganges, it’s a must, a once in a lifetime opportunity! The good news is because you are at the beginning of the Ganges river, the water is fresh and clean and completely healthy to swim in. It was a bucket list item for me, a bit chilly….but so such a buzz to be swimming in the Ganges!
3. Embrace the art of Yoga!Rishikesh is one of best places to visit in north Indiato practice yoga,renowned for its yoga ashrams and schools. Even if you decide not to attend classes, you can take your yoga mat down to the Ganges, there must be no better place for a morning yoga session.
ShoeString: |
Anjali HomeStay
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Budget: |
Blue Jay Hostel
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Midrange: |
HolyRiver Hotel
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Lux: |
Veda5 Ayurveda & Yoga Retreat
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How to Reach Rishikesh From Delhi:
- TRAIN: You can catch a train from Delhi to Haridwar which will take about 11hours. Once in Haridwar, Rishikesh is a short 30min rickshaw ride away. If you want to learn more about train travel in India and how to book your train tickets online then be sure to check out our Indian Trains Explained article here.
Sleeper Class Train Ticket: Rs200/$3USD
AC Class Train Ticket: Rs500/$7USD
Rickshaw: Rs500/$7USD
- BUS:Perhaps the most effective way of reaching Rishikeshis by bus. You can catch a volvo air conditioned bus direct from Delhi to Rishikesh and the journey will take between 5-7 hours. If you are an international traveller, the best place to book is through Redbus as they accept overseas credit cards.Bus Ticket:Rs400/$6USD
- PRIVATE TAXI:A private car from Delhi to Rishikesh will no doubt be the quickest option by land. You can book private taxis through your hotel or book online via the many taxi booking sites available in India.Private Car from Delhi to Rishikesh:Rs4000/$55USD
- FLIGHT: You can catch a quick 40min flight from Delhi to Dehradun. From Dehradun to Rishikesh it is a 20min Rickshaw or taxi ride.
Flight from Delhi to Dehradun: Rs7000/$100USD
Rickshaw from Dehradun to Rishikesh: Rs500/$7USD
3. LALURI
Recommended Stay: 4 Days
Five hours north of Rishikesh is a place that very few tourist will ever see. The perfect addition to your one month India itinerary. An authentic mountain village that will delight you with its charm and beauty.
A place in north India that is untouched, where you will experience local food, life and hospitality at its best. A true paradise that will help you relax and reconnect.
Reti and I were lucky enough to spend two weeks in this beautiful village and actually helped to set up the community homestays.You can see that video here.
The homestays are so integral to the community, as it gives locals a sense of independence and a much needed income stream to support them and their families.
With the global rise of capitalism many village people move to the city in search of work and this has lead to villages being deserted and cultures being lost. Homestays are the answer for many of these small rural villages, helping to preserve their way of life, language and culture.
Top 3 things to do in Laluri
1. Visit Chandrabadni templea prominent hindu site which is located at the top of a mountain at an altitude of 2277m. It’s a short but steep 40min walk to the temple and gives you stunning views of the himalayas when you reach the top.2. Take a walk in the Villageand enjoy meeting locals and watching the world go by. You can also visit the fresh water spring for some delicious mountain water. There are several short treks in the area, just ask your hosts and they will surely guide you.
3. Attend a local ceremonyand experience true Indian culture. If you are lucky enough to be in the village during a festival, party or wedding you will be invited to join in the local celebrations. This will DEFINITELY be an unforgettable travel experience!
Accommodation in Laluri is in the form of traditional homestays. You will be staying in the homes of local village people and will be eating homemade local food. You will get a very authentic experience in doing so, however please do not expect hotel standards. Although the homestays are clean and comfortable the facilities are simple and you can expect bucket baths and squat toilets. There are 4 homestays in Laluri and I have listed them below:
All homestays costs:Rs1000/$14USD
Price includes a private room & three home cooked meals per day
Gita Vatika Homestay
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Gita Vatika Homestay
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Krishna Vatika Homestay
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Krishna Vatika Homestay
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Prema Vatika Homestay
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Prema Vatika
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Maya Vatika Homestay
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Maya Vatika Homestay
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How to Reach Laluri from Rishikesh:
Do note the road to Lauri is very picturesque but also very windy and narrow.
- BUS: There are two bus options when travelling from Rishishek to Laluri, I have listed them below:
1. Rishikesh to Jamnikhal – This bus runs twice a day through Rishikesh at 9:30am and at 10:30 am and will take about 5hours. Be sure to wait at one of the bus stops on highway 7 in Rishikesh and wave down the buses passing to ask if they are going to Jamnikhal. The homestay can organise to pick you up from Jamnikhal, so please email them regarding this.
Bus fare From Rishikesh to Jaminkhal:Rs150/$2USD
2. Rishikesh to Bagwan – This bus departs Rishikesh between 2-2:30pm and will take about 5hours. Be sure to wait at a bus stop on highway 7 in Rishikesh and wave down the buses passing to ask if they are going to Bagwan. The homestay can organise to pick you from Bagwan so send them an email to organise the pickup. Bus fare From Rishikesh to Bagwan:Rs150/$2USD
- PRIVATE TAXI: A private taxi can be booked through your hotel or in one of the many travel shops in Rishikesh and will take you about 4hours.
Private taxi from Rishikesh to laluri:Rs2500/$35USD
4. AGRA
Recommended Stay: 3 Days
Agra, the home of the iconic Taj Mahal is situated in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh and is built on the banks of the Yamuna river. I mean….what visit to India is complete without seeing the Taj Mahal?
It is a must see place in north India and although it attracts thousands of tourist a day, the Taj really does not disappoint. The Taj Mahal has just recently been cleaned so it is sparkling white and more magnificent than ever.
However the Taj Mahal isn’t the only site to see in this ancient Mughal empire. There are other things to do in Agra which I have included in the list below.
Just be sure to be prepared for the onslaught of annoying salesman and touts who can be very persistent. Actually….on that note, check out ourhow to avoid tourist scams article, it will prepare you for the hyper touristy craziness that is Agra.
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Top 3 things to do in Agra:
1. Visit the Taj Mahal,make sure you arrive early to beat the crowds. When we say early we mean arrive at the gates at 5:30am. This gives you time to buy your ticket and get in line before the gates open at 6am.
Arriving early will not only beat the crowds it also means you can enjoy the sunrise on the Taj and explore without the overbearing heat of the afternoon sun. The Taj Mahal opening hours are6am to 6:30pm and costs Rs45 for an Indian Citizen and Rs1,050 for foreign citizens.Just remember the Taj is closed on Fridays.
2. Explore Agra Fortand discover the stunning palace, grounds and gardens of this red sandstone gem.The fort complex has many gardens, courtyards and shaded places to relax and enjoy the beauty of Mahal architecture. The Agra fort opening hours are6am to 6pm and costs Rs40 for an Indian citizens and Rs550 for foreign citizens.
3. Visit Fatehpur Sikria small historic city built in the 16th century just 40mins drive from Agra. This Unesco world heritage site is home to one of the largest mosques in India, the Jama Masjid.The opening hours are6am to 6pm and costs Rs20 for an Indian citizens and Rs550 for foreign citizens.
Recommended hotels in Agra:
ShoeString: |
Rhine Hostel
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Budget: |
Max Guesthouse
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Midrange: |
The Coral Court Homestay
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Lux: |
Trident Agra
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Transport from Laluri to Agra:
- BUS:You will need to travel back to Rishikesh and reach there by about 6pm, just in time to catch an overnight sleeper bus to Agra. We suggested booking in advance, AC sleeper buses can be booked online with Redbus and will take approximately 9hours. Price approx:Rs1000/$14USD
5. ORCHHA
Recommended Stay: 4 Days
Orchha is slowly getting noticed by tourist, but it is largely unspoilt and when we were there we basically had the place to ourselves. This small town located in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh sits on the banks of the beautiful Betwa River.
Orchha is one of of the best places to visit in north Indiabecause it is adorned with stunning forts, palaces and temples dating back as far as the16th century AD.
When we visited Orchha we had quite an authentic local experience. It’s a great place to witness local life and the streets are filled with yummy local street food stalls.
Not only is Orchha home to stunning architectural delights and local village life, but there is also beautiful nature to be admired, especially the Betwa river that is actually quite beautiful, a perfect spot to watch the sunset.
You can see our Orchha adventures in ourtravel video here.
Top 3 things to do in Orchha:1. Visit the Historic Forts, Temples and Palaces.There are many architectural sites to see in Orchha and you may notice you will enjoy them with very little tourist whatsoever, a nice treat compared the chaos of Agra.Entry fee for all sites is onlyRs250 / $3.50USD
2. Explore the villageand take a walk down the alleyways and side streets to discover the village charm of Orchha. You may discover locals gathering water, chatting on the street, farmers harvesting crops or even witness wedding ceremonies in full swing.
3. Watch the Sunset on the Betwa River.This is truly an awesome sight to watch the pink glow of the sunset against the backdrop of this beautiful river and the temples close by. A magical travel experience in India!
ShoeString: |
Hotel Sunset
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Budget: |
Hotel Shri Mahant
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Lux/Midrange: |
Sheesh Mahal
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Transport from Agra to Orchha:
- Train:You will need to catch a train from Agra to Jhansi, from Jhansi Orchha is a 20min tuktuk ride. There are many trains from Agra to Jhansi at different times all talking about 4hours. The train is actually a faster option then by car, because the trains on this route are superfast/express. To learn how to book Indian trains online read ourguide to Indian trains article here.
Train Ticket Sleeper Class:Rs200/$3USD
Train Ticket AC Class:Rs500/$7USD
Tuktuk from Jhansi to Orchha:Rs500/$7USD
- Taxi:A private car from Agra to Orchha will travel 250kms and will take about 5hours. Taxi:Rs4000/$55USD
6. UDAIPUR
Recommended Stay: 4 Days
Udaipur, the ‘lake city’ is a great addition to your one month India itinerary. A romantic and beautiful city that is often referred to as the Venice of India.
Udaipur is a historic city built in1559 that surrounds beautifullake Pichola. Situated in southern Rajasthan, Udaipur is one of the mostalluring and beautiful travel destinations that India has to offer.
Although it is a staple location for foreign and Indian tourist, don’t let this deter you from visiting this charming lake city. Home to many historic palaces, temples, markets and gardens there is a seemingly endless list of things to do in Udaipur.
You can see our Udaipur adventures in our Udaipur travel video here.
Top 3 things to do in Udaipur:
1. Watch a cultural showat the Bagore Ki Haveli. This show is set in a stunning historic palace and showcases traditional Rajasthani dancing and puppetry at its best. The show starts at 7pm daily, but be sure to arrive at least 30mins early to confirm your tickets. The show costs Rs90 for an Indian Citizen and Rs1150 for foreign citizens.
2. Visit the Jagdish Temple, a stunning hindu temple in the heart of Udaipur adorned with intricate carvings. (pictured above)
3. Visit the local spice marketand get off the beaten track in Udaipur. If you venture away from the lake and into the local market you will find an array of delightful alleyways filled with markets. You can find not only spices but also, fresh fruit & vegetables, jewellery, woven items, clothing and more.
To find the markets just walk from theJagdish Templetowards the Delhi Gate Circle, all the roads between the lake and Delhi Gate Circle are bustling market places. Extra tip for the most amazing authentic Rajasthani thali tryBawarchi Restaurant which is opposite Delhi gate.
Recommended hotels in Udaipur:
ShoeString: |
Bunkyard
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Budget: |
Rising Shemesh Homestay
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Midrange: |
Little Garden Guest House
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Lux: |
Jagat Niwas Palace
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Transport from Orchha to Udaipur:
BUS:You can catch a night sleeper bus from Jhansi to Udaipur which will take about 13hours. The best place to book bus tickets online is with Redbus.Bus Ticket:Rs1000/ $14USD
PRIVATE TAXI:A private taxi can be booked from Orchha to Udaipur and will take about 8hours. This would be the fastest way to reach Udaipur from Orchha. Taxi fare:Rs13,000/$180USD
7. JODHPUR
Recommended Stay: 4 Days
India’s blue city, yes that’s right blue city! Jodhpur is actually the only place on this list that we have not visited yet, because our visa ran out before we had a time to go. When we return to India, Jodhpur as well as the state of Gujarat are on our list of must visit places!
It didn’t feel right to leave Jodhpuroff the list as we have heard so many amazing things from fellow travellers about this incredible place. So we have done some research for you about Jodhpur so that you can be inspired to include it in your India travel itinerary.
Jodhpur is Rajasthan’s second largest city, however the old quarter where the walls of the city are painted in different shades of blue is small and condensed. The smaller blue part of the city is peaceful with very few people filled with narrow lanes all beaming in that beautiful blue colour.
The clock tower however is one of the busiest parts of town, jam packed with people, carts, markets and all the amazing things that will give you that real intense India experience.
Top 3 things to do in Jodhpur:
1. TourMehrangarh Fort,one of the largest forts in India and aUNESCO world heritage site. This fort complex sits on the top of a high cliff overlooking the beautiful blue city. A true display of the beauty and intricacy of Rajasthani architecture.
Don’t forget to check out theSati handprints located to the left of theIron Gate…..15small handprints left by the wives of the maharaja before theysacrificedthemselves on his funeral pyre.The entrance fee for the fort isRs60 for an Indian Citizen and Rs400for foreign citizens.
2. Stroll by the Stepwells,Mahila Baag Jhalra &Toorji Ka Jhalra, both pretty 18th-century stepwells that many tourist fail to notice or visit. Located a few hundred meters from the Clock Tower these two off the beaten path sites are well worth your time and the best thing is….they are absolutely free!
3. Take a Village Tourthroughthe Bishnoi villages of Jodhpur in the thar desert. The Bishnoi people are known for their worship of trees which they never cut down. These village tours are highly recommend if you want to meet local Bishnoi people, see how they live and enjoy their handicrafts. You can usually book a village tour online or through your hotel or guesthouse
Recommended hotels in Jodhpur:
ShoeString: |
Jaswant Bhawan Homestay
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Budget: |
Karma Heritage Guest House
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Midrange:
The Arch Boutique Homestay, a small period property over 200 years old that combines historic charm with great modern facilities. Price approx: Rs3500/$50USD |
Arch Boutique Homestay
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Lux: |
The Almond Tree
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Transport from Udaipur to Jodhpur:
- BUS:You can catch an AC volo sleeper bus from Udaipur to Jodphur which will take you about 6hours. Travelling by bus will be your cheapest way to reach Jodhpur from Udaipur.Bus Ticket:Rs500/ $7USD
- PRIVATE TAXI:A private AC taxi can be booked from Udaipur to Jodphur and will take about 5hours. This would be the fastest way to reach Udaipur. Taxi:Rs3000/ $42USD
8. JAISALMER
Recommended Stay: 4 Days
Did you know India not only has a blue city but also a gold city! It’s name is Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer is a truly jaw dropping site, you feel as though you have stepped back in time at least 1000 years as you walk through this golden desert city.
Beyond any doubt we rate Jaisalmer as one of the best places to visit in north India. Rising up from theThar Desert in far western Rajasthan, the Jaisalmer Fort stands epically and beautifully. The narrow golden alleyways in Jaisalmer are so charming and the intricately carved facades on thehaveliswill take your breath away.
Although Jaisalmer is now definitely on the tourist path, this is no reason not visit this incredible golden city. We actually visited Jaisalmer in the low season which meant there were very few tourist, but the weather was extremely hot. You can watch ourJaisalmer adventures here.
The golden city is also a shoppers paradise with beautiful Rajasthani crafts for sale inside the fort. One thing we loved about Jaisalmer is that the fort is a living fort and families have been living inside the fort walls for generations. This also means you can stay in the fort as there are many guests houses built inside the fort walls.
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Top 3 things to do in Jaisalmer:
1. Hire a Motorbikeand explore the vast Thar Desert by road. There are also many monuments outside the main town of Jaisalmer to visit, and reaching them by motorbike is the most adventurous way. Some key sites to see by motorbike are;Bada Bagh,Gadisar Lake & khuri Village. Motorbike hire will cost you approx Rs500 per day.
2. Go Haveli Huntingthrough the beautiful golden streets of Jaisalmer. As you walk through the golden city your eyes will be delighted by the stunning carvings and impressive Havelis all around you. One famous Haveli is particularly beautiful, thePatwon Ki Haveli which costs Rs50 for an Indian Citizen and Rs100for foreign citizens.
3. Shop away in the Fort.Jaisalmer is a shopper’s delight and you can spend an entire day wondering the streets of the fort and discovering all the beautiful Rajasthani crafts! We are budget, long term travellers so shopping is something we don’t usually do, but all the beautiful things on offer in Jaisalmer make it so difficult to resist! I ended up buying a beautiful handcrafted quilt that I had sent back home to New Zealand.
Honourable mention: Many choose to indulge in a desert camel safari when they visit Jaisalmer. We decided to skip this attraction because we have done a similar activity in Morocco and realised riding a camel is the most uncomfortable thing in the world. However it was still a great travel experience, so If you have never rode a camel in the desert and want to try, then is an option too.
Recommended hotels in Jaisalmer:
ShoeString: |
Crazy Camel Guest House
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Budget: |
Surja Guest House
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Midrange: |
The Gulaal
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Lux:
Suryagarh Jaisalmer, 5 star elegance staying true to ancient Rajasthani architecture. This incredible property optimises luxury featuring an outdoor pool, health spa and fitness centre. Price approx: Rs22,000/$300USD |
Suryagarh
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- TRAIN:The train from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer will take about 6hours. For more information about booking trains in India please read ourIndian Trains Explainedarticle.Sleeper Class:Rs225/ $3USD AC Class:Rs600/ $8USD
- BUS:You can catch an AC volvo bus from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer which will take you about 6hours. Considering costs, time and ease of travel, travelling but bus would be the most efficient way of reaching Jaisalmer. Bus Ticket:Rs300/ $4USD
- PRIVATE TAXI:A private AC taxi can be booked from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer and will take about 5hours. This would be the fastest way to reach Jaisalmer. Taxi:Rs4000/ $55USD
(To return back to Delhi we suggest a domestic flight)
One Month North India Itinerary
Well thats it, the perfect one month India itinerary! We hope we have helped you plan your next India travel adventure. We really do think this is the best itinerary for India! We have also written an article to help you decide the best time to visit India, so check that one out too.
Do let us know if you have any India travel questions, or tips to share with us and fellow travellers, we love hearing from you!
Cheers, Native Travellers
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