All my pictures on this post will be from the Beatles Ashram in Rishikesh, because I just loved it all so much that I want to share it with you 🙂

It is my last day in India and it is bittersweet. Actually if I am honest with myself it is bitter. I have grown to have an unhealthy love affair with India. One moment I want to scream at a tuk tuk for almost running me over or honking the horn a million times, and the next I am admiring the beautiful mountains, rivers, talking to the friendly people, and just consumed by all India has to offer.
There are many places I still want to visit, this country is so big and one month to really explore the entire country does not feel like enough(unless you take flights between distant cities instead of bus or train.)

Here are a few itineraries that you can build from;

One Week Itinerary

Day 1 and 2
If you only have one week in India I would stick with the Golden Triangle route.
Usually this is arrival in Delhi. Two days should be enough in Delhi. Make sure you visit the Red Fort, Lotus Temple, Akshardham Temple, and Humayuns tomb.

Day 3
On day 3 take a train to Agra to visit the Taj Majal. Check the schedules for Taj Majal prior to arriving, as there is usually one day it is closed, for now Friday’s. I stayed in Agra one day.

Day 4 to 7
Travel to Jaipur, the Pink City. You know, where the Best Marigold Hotel takes place. Here you Can visit Amer Fort, Nahargarh Fort and make sure you go across the street from the forts and hike up the steps for the sunset, absolutely beautiful. Also you can visit the city palace and Hawa Majal. there is the temple on the water and if you have time take a hike up to the monkey temple to feed the wild monkeys.

Day 8
Head back to Delhi for a flight out.

More of my favorite graffiti at the Beatles Ashram

Two weeks
If you have more time  for your second week head to Udaipur, the city where Octopussy 007 was filmed(many people stop at Pushkar or Bundi on the way here for a day or two) While in Udaipur visit the city palace and for a great view of the sunset and city visit the Rope, and either walk up the hill or take a cable car(walking path is free). If you have not yet seen Octopussy catch a 7pm showing at many of the hotels in town, they are pretty easy to find as they will have signs for rooftop movies. If you want a funky experience head to Doctor Cafe for a “Special Lassi” and some pizza. If you are feeling like you have a few extra days and want to volunteer visit the animal rescue(make sure you call them in advance and let them know you are coming).  You can also take cooking classes and art classes. Get lost in the town, there are many great cafes, shops, and beautiful little streets. If you are tired of moving around a lot, you can easily spend a week in this great city.

I really love the graffiti at the Ashram 🙂

Longer than 2 weeks, the possibilities are endless. Many people I met went from Udaipur and headed West to Jaisalmer for the camel safari in the dessert(please keep in mind sometimes the treatment of the camels is not great).
Some headed South to the bustling city of Mumbai and after to the beach and party town of Goa.
I headed back towards Delhi and kept going to Rishikesh, where The Beatles went to learn Transcendental meditation. In Rishikesh I spent a week at an Ashram right on the Gangas river. There is River rafting, shopping, trekking, temples to visit, many yoga and meditation classes, and also great vegan/vegetarian restaurants. Don’t forget to visit the Beatles Ashram, it is now abandoned but a pretty cool sight.

If I had over a month to spend in India I would have wanted to visit the following two places that came highly recommended by many people;
Varanasi
Hampi

There is something for everyone in India. There is never a dull moment, and you just never run out of things to do. Being bored, is not an option. Pick up the map and start planning your trip. And if you want any extra details or tips please ask below or visit my facebook page and message me 🙂
Happy Travels
Namaste

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