After years of hiking and trekking around the world, I was longing for the opportunity to embark on some more technical mountaineering ascents. However, growing up in Australia, a mostly flat nation with only one notable peak, didn’t offer many opportunities to hone my technical mountain skills.

So, I began researching the best ways to acquire those skills and quickly found that a Basic Mountaineering Course (BMC) would be the best place to start. I’d done some trekking in the Himalayas before, including Nepal’s famous Three Passes Trek, so I knew that basic mountaineering adventure courses in the Himalayas would be right up my alley.

After a recommendation from a friend, I ended up enrolling in the BMC at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) in Darjeeling, West Bengal – a school with an international reputation and as one of India’s premier mountaineering institutes.

This article is aimed at informing those interested in enrolling at HMI, or those curious about Himalayan mountaineering schools in India. I’ve included tonnes of information about the BMC course and the institute, as well as a detailed day-by-day breakdown of my experience with an honest review of the course at the bottom of this post.

About HMI Darjeeling (Himalayan Mountaineering Institute)

HMI Darjeeling is one of the oldest and longest-running mountaineering institutes in the world. It was founded by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru (India's first Prime Minister) and Tenzing Norgay in 1954, just one year after Sir Edmund Hillary and Norgay made the first successful ascent of Mount Everest (8848 m).

HMI's most popular course is the BMC, which attracts a long waiting list for Indians (more on this later), but they also offer the Advanced Mountaineering Course, Search and Rescue, Method of Instruction Course, and various special courses like the adventure courses (trekking and summits).

The institute is strangely located within the Darjeeling Zoological Park, meaning trainees and visitors must walk through the zoo to get to the institute's entrance gates. You'll find the entrance to this zoo on Lebong Cart Rd, a short walk from Chowrasta and Chauk Bazar, Darjeeling.

HMI is a government-run facility (jointly by the government of India and the Government of West Bengal). It's headed by the Defence Minister and the Chief Minister of West Bengal. As a result, the organization is much more militaristic, hierarchal, and bureaucratic than western climbing schools.

Tenzing Norgay: HMI Darjeeling is well-known in India and the global mountaineering world for being founded by Sherpa Tenzing Norgay (along with Sir Edmund Hillary, the first man to summit Everest). Norgay served as the institute's first Director of Field Training and largely shaped the early course structures. Today, there is a memorial outside the HMI museum dedicated to Norgay.

Getting to Darjeeling

The easiest way to get to Darjeeling is to fly to the nearby domestic airport of Bagdogra. There are several flight routes connecting to Bagdogra via large Indian transit hubs like Delhi and Kolkata. Domestic flights in India, including routes to Bagdogra, are quite affordable, especially if you compare prices across airlines using tools like Skyscanner or CheapOAir.

From Bagdogra airport, it is very easy to arrange a taxi to Darjeeling on arrival. Simply walk past the baggage collection area and immediately before reaching the exit, turn left down the narrow hallway to a small taxi office. The official price for a taxi to Darjeeling is 1500 INR (approximately $18 USD), which is very fair for the long and very winding 3-4 hour drive.

Just be prepared, Darjeeling's second name is the Queen of Hills, and this is no exaggeration.

Transport Tip: Travelers can also pre-book a private airport transfer from Bagdogra Airport online which will save you the hassle of having to book one when you arrive.

Alternative Transport Options to Darjeeling

Alternatively, travelers can opt for slightly cheaper but much longer overland journeys to Darjeeling from cities across India.

If you use RedBus, you'll find an extensive network of inter-city buses running to the nearby city of Siliguri at affordable rates. From Siliguri, you'll need to take a taxi or shared Jeep to Darjeeling, which is easy to find at the arrival bus station and costs roughly 1500 rupees, and takes 3-4 hours.

There's also a train station in Siliguri, meaning you can use RedBus again to book train tickets from nearby cities including Kolkata.

Tip: In my opinion, sleeper buses in India are much more comfortable and more convenient than trains.

About the Basic Mountaineering Course

The Basic Mountaineering Course (BMC) in India is a 28-day course designed to take beginner mountaineers (men & women) and provide them with all of the skills necessary to embark on expeditions up to 7,000 meters.

The course is split into theoretical (classroom lectures) and practical components covering topics such as the use of mountaineering equipment and technical clothing, rock craft, ice craft (glacier training), snow craft, etc.

The BMC is split up with an initial 8 days spent at the Himalayan Institute in Darjeeling, followed by a 4-day trek from Yoksum to HMI Base Camp at Chaurikhang, West Sikkim (4500 m). Then, trainees spend 10 days at the camp for field training and height gain, followed by a 2-day descent trek and 2-3 days of written tests, formalities, and graduation once back at HMI.

All mountaineering institutes in India offer a standardized course program for the BMC. This means that candidates looking to progress to the Advance course can do so at other schools as well. However, only candidates with a graduating score of A or above are permitted to progress to further mountaineering training in India.

Course schedules run during March, April, May, September, October, and November.

Indian climbing regulations: The BMC is a very popular course in India with a long waiting list. The reason is that its completion is a preliminary requirement for Indian citizens wanting to embark on an above 7,000-meter expedition in the Indian Himalayas. Strangely, the Indian government does not have any formal training restrictions for foreign nationals on any expedition. However, it may help if mountaineers apply for climbing permits themselves with the intent to climb alpine style.

Enrollment Process

The enrollment process for the BMC at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute varies greatly depending on whether you are a foreigner or an Indian national.

Unfortunately, I can't comment much on the Indian process. However, after speaking to people on my course, they've told me that in order for Indians to apply, they must put their names down and wait for up to two years. There are also Indian military slots and sponsorship slots from programs like the cadets. If you're an Indian reader, I recommend contacting HMI directly.

For non-Indians, there are foreigner slots available. These are separate from the regular waiting list slots for Indians and allow people from other nations to enroll as late as a few months in advance. However, foreigners (and Indians who want to pay full price for the early enrollment) have to pay the full course fees, which in 2022 was roughly $1000 USD (but seems as if is increasing yearly). Waiting list candidates pay a fraction of this.

Both Indians and foreigners will need to complete the enrollment form, as well as a very lengthy and thorough medical assessment form. The medical requires everything from an ECG to chest X-rays, which was frustrating for me as somebody who lives on the road.

In order to complete your enrollment, you'll also need to forward 10% of the course fees as a deposit after emailing a copy of your Application Form and Medical Form to the HMI staff.

Insurance for the BMC at HMI

Mountaineering insurance up to 5000 m+ is compulsory for all candidates at HMI Darjeeling. Since most travel insurance companies void coverage as soon as you step above 4500 m, I strongly recommend Global Rescue since their policies offer yearly or expedition-based coverage with no altitude caps.

Get Global Rescue

What to Expect From a Mountaineering Course at HMI Darjeeling

Before I dive into my day-by-day recap, here's a bit of information about the facilities at HMI Darjeeling.

The Institute (Campus)

The first thing you'll notice about the HIM campus is that it is quite big, with several wings and facilities. Below I've included a small list of these facilities, as well as some photos beneath.

• Javal Hall (auditorium) - a large lecture theatre hall capable of accommodating more than 225 students at a time. Used for lectures and training presentations.
• PTI Hall - a regular classroom with folding-table desks where HMI instructors deliver smaller lectures and classes.
• Library - a well-stocked library containing loads of mountaineering and travel books.
• Gym - small strength and fitness gym with a few weight machines and treadmills. Unfortunately, this was closed during my course.
• Indoor Rock Climbing Hall - basic indoor sports climbing wall.
• Outdoor Rock Climbing Wall - impressive 50' x 20' sport climbing wall with traditional lead, top rope, and speed climbing sections.

Lodging (Hostel)

True to Indian customs, the HMI campus hostel is split up into two wings– one for males and one for females. This means that couple enrollees will be separated.

The hostels are 3 stories high, with several rooms on each floor accommodating up to eight students in bunkbed-style dorms. There are also large metal lockers for each student in the room.

On each hostel floor is a bathroom with mostly Asian (squatter) toilets and a couple of showers. The hot water geezers only turn on in the morning.

Food (Dining Hall)

Trainees receive three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), served in a large, open dining hall.

These meals are mostly rice and dal based and are quite basic in terms of variety. Honestly, eating the same food for every meal was one of the most difficult parts for me on this course. At first, I thought it was me who needed to adjust to an Indian diet, but in the end, it seemed that the majority of the Indian candidates were also longing for variety.

The bonus here is that you are able to walk up and get as many servings as you want, assuming you finish your plate. Oh, and there are many, many "tea breaks" for chai and biscuits throughout the course, both on campus and at HMI Base Camp.

Equipment

Apart from a basic list of essential items like sports shoes for PT, trekking boots, gloves, and base layers, HMI provides all necessary mountaineering equipment and technical clothing required for the expedition to West Sikkim.

A basic list of the gear provided includes:

• Backpack (large 80L hiking backpack)
• Sleeping mat
• Sleeping bag
• Mess tin
• Down jacket
• Balaclava
• Rain jacket & pants
• Climbing harness
• Jumar, figure-8 descender, carabiners, piece rope
• Ice Axe
• Crampons

The overall quality of the equipment is good enough for the BMC. However, in terms of international mountaineering standards, the equipment is well– let's just say I wouldn't climb any serious peak with this gear.

Therefore, if you have your own equipment such as Gore-Tex shells or technical gear like an ice axe or crampons, I highly recommend bringing it for the course.

HMI Base Camp

The HMI Base Camp is located at Chaurikhang, West Sikkim at 4500 meters. The camp is positioned on a grassy hill just above the Rathong River and is surrounded by beautiful peaks including Rathong, the Kabru Mountains, Mount Frey, and Kokthang.

The facilities at Base Camp are quite impressive, offering a hut for accommodation (expedition tents for the Advanced course trainees), equipment rooms, toilets (squatter drop toilets), dedicated training areas, a medical office, and full kitchen.

Don't miss: Guide to Picking Trekking Travel Insurance (no altitude caps)

HMI Museum, Darjeeling Zoo, and Treetop Rope Course

As mentioned earlier, the HMI campus sits within the Darjeeling Zoo. In fact, the institute earns some money from tourists who visit HMI to tour the grounds. While initially, this made me feel a little strange since there'd be random families asking me for selfies, I quickly got over it.

Something else I didn't expect was that we were not allowed to leave the gates once we'd received our hostel slips, even to tour the zoo. Therefore, if it's your kind of thing, I'd dedicate some time to check it out before or after the course.

On the other hand, the HMI Museum, which I highly recommend, is within the walls of the institute, meaning candidates can visit during downtime. This museum features some historical items including Tenzing Norgay's Everest summit jacket and axe. This is also the oldest mountaineering museum in India.

Additionally, just outside the museum is a souvenir shop and a small cafeteria serving basic meals like momos or sandwiches, which were a great treat when we had the chance to visit.

The Treetop Course is a new addition inside the HMI Darjeeling grounds but is off-limits to candidates and really not worth the time in my opinion.

My Experience of the Basic Mountaineering Course at HMI

In this section, I'll provide a quick day-by-day recap of my experience in the Basic Mountaineering Course to help you understand what to expect. Of course, the BMC structure will likely not be exactly the same as you'll experience as some outdoor activities like rock climbing are weather dependent.

However, this will give you a good idea of what it's like undertaking the course at HMI Darjeeling, especially as a foreigner.

Day 0: Initiation and Checking into the HMI Hostel

We reached HMI Darjeeling just after midday on the scheduled arrival day. Upon arrival, we were greeted by administrative staff who then guided us through the introduction process.

This was quite straightforward, with just a few forms and documents to sign, as well as a brief medical report check. We were also offered the option to purchase insurance for 1000 Indian rupees which would cover us for the entire course. Shortly after, we were handed our Hostel Slip, which we passed to the quartermaster, who then assigned us our hostel rooms.

After quickly settling in, we were given a quick introduction in the Javal Hall (large auditorium), followed by our first dinner together. This was a good opportunity to meet the other trainees and get settled in for the course.

Day 1: Getting Settled into HMI Campus

The first day at HMI was all about getting prepared.

The day started at 6:50 am with the assignment of ropes, which are essentially small groups of 5-6 people that we'd stay in for the remainder of the course. Interestingly, the instructors split the 63 trainees up by region, then assigned ropes in a way that would mix people from different states of India (as well as one foreigner per rope).

First PT Session

Shortly after, we began our first PT (physical training) session. This involved a morning jog through the Darjeeling Zoo and around the soon-to-be familiar loop down Mall Road to Chowrasta that we'd run for the next week.

The first section of this easy 5-km jog involves a slight incline but I was surprised that the instructors really kept a very slow pace, to begin with (roughly 7.5-minute kilometers). Additionally, the jog was broken up with a short PT session at a nearby courtyard involving basic bodyweight exercises and stretches.

While this was not overly demanding by any means, I believe that this 1 hour PT session is structured to help trainees acclimatize to the 2000-meter altitude at the campus.

Campus Orientation

After a quick shower and Indian breakfast, we lined up (HMI calls it "Fall-In") in the courtyard in lines of ropes. This process involved the assignment of an alternating Rope Leader, which we would take turns being every two days.

The responsibility of the Rope Leader was to ensure that all other rope members were present when called. This would be a common occurrence for the next week following each break or meal.

Shortly after, the instructors walked us around the campus and introduced us to all of the facilities including:

• Indoor Rock Climbing Hall
• Library
• PTI Lecture Hall
• Outdoor Rock Climbing Area
• HMI Museum
• Tenzing Norgay Sherpa Plarque
• Equipment Wing
• Medical Wing

First Lectures

Next up, we were treated to a decent lunch followed by our first lecture on mountain equipment.

Final on-site Medicals

I was quite surprised at just how thorough HMI was with its medical inspections. Not only were we required to undergo some pretty thorough reports before arriving, but we were also inspected on day one by the onsite medical team.

This involved a quick checkup on our vitals, including blood pressure and heart rate, as well as weight and height reporting and a quick chat with the medical officer.

Receiving Our Mountaineering Equipment

After a quick chai tea break (get used to these), we were then instructed to report to the Equipment Wing to receive our assigned equipment. This equipment included:

• Rucksack
• Waterproof Jacket and Pants
• Massive Down Jacket
• Sleeping Bag & liner
• Mess Tin
• Harness & Hardware (Jumar, carabiners, etc)
• Woolen balaclava
• Water bottle
• Rappelling jacket

If we had brought some of our own equipment, including drink bottles, harnesses, etc, we were told that we didn't need to rent this and that we could use our own.

Evening Lecture

To wrap up the day we attended a 45-minute lecture on mountain manners and other formalities expected of us.

Day 2: Climbing Ropes & Knots

Just like on day 1, the second day started with a PT session commencing at 6:50 am. Again, we ran the same loop but this time at a gradually faster pace. I still found this to be very easy and was a little surprised at just how little physical effort was expected of us.

Following PT, we had roughly one hour to have a quick shower and eat breakfast together before fall in.

Morning Lecture: Rope

The first lecture of the day was held in the auditorium and contained useful information about rope use in mountaineering.

Practical: Learning Knots & Mountaineering Rope Use

After a quick tea break, we were asked to report to the Outdoor Climbing Area for a rope and knot learning session. I really enjoyed this session as we learned many different types of knots that we'd use every day for the rest of the course.

Some of the main knots and hitches used in the BMC at HMI Darjeeling include:

• Guideman knot
• MIddleman Knot
• Figure of eight
• Bowline (various methods)
• Bowline on the bite
• Reef knot, fisherman's knot, sheet bend
• Clove hitch

There were plenty of instructors present who were able to teach each of us the correct methods of tying these knots and hitches, as well as the practice of coiling rope.

Further Lectures

After lunch, we attended more lectures in the PTI hall. These were classes on the Himalayas and an introduction to rock climbing. We also finished up the day by watching an inspirational Everest movie.

Day 3: First Day at Tenzing Rock

Again, the day started with a progressively more difficult PT session. However, while the pace was faster than the previous days, it was easily managed and you will likely still find it too easy if you hold a decent level of fitness.

Rock Climbing at HMI Darjeeling Tenzing Rock

Day three was an exciting day as we were finally able to practice some rock craft. The main training ground for all rock work at HMI Darjeeling is a large boulder outcrop located less than two kilometers from the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute campus and is known as Tenzing Rock.

This is a perfect rock for training as it features several grades of rock climbing pitches, space for rappelling, and even a decent chimney area. The first day at the rock involved basic rock climbing and belaying practice which again was quite straightforward and very easy for those with previous climbing experience.

However, on this particular day, the rock was quite wet which meant slippery conditions. We climbed until roughly 12:00 pm, whereby after which we made the walk back up to the HMI campus for lunch.

Afternoon Mountaineering Lectures

Following a hearty lunch, we attended the now-familiar afternoon lectures. This time the topics covered areas of mountaineering terms, as well as mountaineering hazards.

Day 4: More Rock Craft & HMI Lectures

Unlike the previous days, the morning PT session on day four was followed by a 30-minute guided yoga session. While it wasn't the best yoga session I've ever done, I was happy that the institute was including yoga in its course program.

Next, we headed back to Tenzing Rock for more climbing, belaying, and practical lessons on rock anchoring.

The afternoon included lectures on mountain clothing and environmental management in the mountains.

Day 5: First "Hike" and Rappelling at Tenzing Rock

On Day 5 we were instructed not to undergo morning PT. Instead, we were told to prepare a 15-kilogram rucksack for a 10-kilometer training hike around Darjeeling and down to Tenzing Rock.

The purpose of this was to prepare trainees for an upcoming fitness test before heading to the HMI base camp.

In all honesty, I felt a longing for some nature trails at this stage and would have preferred the hike to feature some of the beautiful hiking trails in Darjeeling. Instead, we marched in a long loop that finished at Tenzing Rock.

Rappelling Practice

After spending the past two days at the rock, we had completed all of the climbing routes, as well as the anchor fixing training and chimney route. So, the next two days were dedicated to rappelling practice.

We were taught direct rappelling techniques without hardware such as stomach rappelling, shoulder rappelling, and side rappelling, as well as indirect rappelling using the figure eight descenders.

Similarly to the previous days, the time at the rock finished at 12:00 pm so we could make it back to the HMI campus by 1 pm for our lunch.

Afternoon lectures

Afternoon lectures on day eight featured classes on tents in mountaineering and a basic first aid course.

Day 6: Day at Tenzing Rock

We kicked off the sixth day with a regular PT session followed by another yoga class. This time, I was much more impressed with the yoga flows and instruction. After this, we headed back to Tenzing Rock and completed another rappelling and climbing session.

It was quite inspiring to see so many trainees gain so much confidence with climbing, belaying, and rappelling so quickly.

The afternoon lectures included a class led by the on-site medical officer on high altitude sicknesses including AMS, HAPE, and HACE. The final class was a very informative one about map reading.

Day 7: Tenzing Rock and Indoor Climbing

Originally, day 7 was reserved for a physical fitness hiking test. However, due to a landslide on the way to base camp, our trek, and consequently the test, was pushed back by two days.

Instead of the test (which was held on day 9), we kicked off the day with another PT lesson followed by rappelling sessions at Tenzing Rock.

This time, we got to try out long-line rappelling on the steep face, which was much more exhilarating.

Afterward, we returned to the HMI campus to do some indoor rock climbing followed by a short movie and an afternoon of free time on campus.

Day 8: Jumar Practice & Stretcher Training

The day started off with a light jog, followed by a 30-minute yoga session. At this point, everybody in the course was getting much fitter and more used to the altitude.

Jumar Ascending on Tenzing Rock

Due to the fact that our glacier training at base camp was pushed back by two days, the instructors brought us back to Tenzing Rock for a day of Jumar ascending. This lesson is usually reserved for Base Camp, however, the teams did well to set up a decent ascent practice on the steep side of the short face.

Jumars are the main tool for most mountaineers looking to climb on expeditions with a Sherpa or guide. As a result, we really tried to take it all in and learn as much as possible.

Rope Stretcher Making

Following another decent lunch in the mess hall, the course was brought up to the courtyard opposite the HMI museum. Here, we were taught how to make an improvised rope stretcher from a 50-meter rope.

Our Rope instructor also took some time to give us one-on-one training on some of the main knots that we were struggling with.

Day 9: Pandem Trekking Test (fitness Test)

Before the BMC course heads out to the base camp for field and glacier training, passing a basic fitness test is required. Originally, this test was meant to happen on day 7. However, due to the pushed-back departure date, our course group underwent this test on day 9.

The test involved a simple 14-kilometer trek carrying a minimum of 15 kilograms of gear. The passing time was under 3 hours, which we were made to agree on. If we weren't able to complete the trek within this time frame, we'd be asked to leave the course. In fact, we even had to sign a waiver before the test to accept this condition.

While this seems harsh at first, it does have logistical merit. The coming days of trekking to the glacier would be much harsher, and any individuals who weren't able to complete this basic trek would experience major issues down the line.

The trek forms a long loop starting with a gradual descent down to the nearby Darjeeling tea plantations before climbing a rather steep, switchback road back to Chowrasta, with a final stretch to the HMI Darjeeling campus. The view on the way was quite refreshing after spending so much time at the Darjeeling campus. Sweeping valleys of tea trees merged into rolling hills of Middle Himalayan jungle landscapes. In the distance, small glimpses of snow-capped peaks penetrated the thick morning fog.

In the end, I was able to complete the trek in two hours and three minutes with a decent level of fitness but little altitude exposure over the past few months. While so far the PT had been much too easy, this trek was quite difficult, especially for us who set the pace quite high.

Unfortunately, several trainees from my course were unable to complete this test within the required time restraints. As a result, they were asked to leave the following day.

See Pandem Trek map: My Strava

Tips for the Pandem Test: The first 7 kilometers of the Pandem test involves a gradual decline down to the valley of tea plantations. I recommend setting a decent pace and taking advantage of this section by alternating between a slow jog and a downhill powerwalk. However, the last 5 kilometers involve an increasingly steeper ascent, with about 500 meters of elevation gain. Try to set a slow steady pace for this uphill stretch and just keep walking and you'll make it within 3 hours.

Avalanche Lecture

After an easy day hanging out at the campus following the Pandem test, our instructors gave us an informative lecture on avalanche safety and rescue. This was one of my favorite lectures so far, with tonnes of useful information for staying safe in avalanche-prone areas, and gave us the opportunity to try tracker beacons.

Day 10: Preparing for Sikkim

On Day 10 we received good news from our instructors, the landslides had been cleared and we were off to Basecamp tomorrow! 

But first, we set off on the final PT session, an easy and very familiar loop to Chowrasta and back to the HMI campus. 

Following the PT we had a fall-in order and the instructors gave us a thorough rundown of how and what to pack for the upcoming expedition. 

Then, we had the rest of the day off. So, we packed our bags, toured the Darjeeling Zoo (which was actually slightly depressing), and spent some quality time with the crew, some of whom were, unfortunately, leaving the next day due to a failed Pandem test time. 

Day 11: Journey to Yuksom

The air was filled with excitement on day 11. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t eager to get out of the HMI campus. Don’t get me wrong, the place is great, but spending 10 straight days in the same hostel, eating the same food, and being unable to leave was kind of getting to me. 

Following the morning fall-in, we loaded our backpacks onto the Tata 4x4 “Jeeps”. There were four foreigners in our course, of which I was one. Our instructors told us all to ride in the same car, as we required a special passport screening at the border of Sikkim.

In total, we crammed eight passengers into the 5-seater 4x4, with an additional 200 kilograms or so worth of backpack weight on the roof racks.

I’ve been down some sketchy roads in my life, but I’d have to say the road from Darjeeling to Yuksom has to be up there with some of the worst. 

The journey of 93 kilometers was meant to take us 6 hours but ended up dragging out to around 10 due to multiple landslides which needed to be cleared for the HMI Darjeeling convoy to pass.

The fact that our driver had a habit of speeding up around corners made the experience even more nail-biting. 

However, in the end, we arrived at the top of Yuksom, where several A-frame tents and hot dal waited for us. Yuksom is a small village on the edge of Kanchenjunga National Park and the former capital of the kingdom of Sikkim.

This was a good place to stock up on some trail snacks and enjoy civilization before departing for Base Camp.

Now, it was time to relax after the long journey, and prepare for the long trek to HMI Basecamp at Chaurikhang and Rathong Glacier over the coming days.

Day 12: Trek from Yuksom to Tshoka

After a rather uncomfortable night’s sleep in a wet, soggy tent, we fell in at 7 am and prepared for the long, 16-kilometer trek from Yuksom to Tshoka. 

Unfortunately for us, the monsoon was dragging out this year, which meant a long, arduous journey through dense jungle with enduring rainfall beating down on us for the majority of the day. 

Truthfully, this was a challenging trek of closer to 19 kilometers as recorded on my Garmin watch. The incline for the day, including the undulating sections, added up to a total of 1550 meters, which a lot of trainees struggled with.

The trek itself involved several undulating sections on a wet, muddy trail. Furthermore, the trail was in poor shape. There were at least three serious landslides that had all but washed away the trail. As a result, HMI’s beasts of burden couldn’t accompany us on the trek. Instead, we all pitched in and carried an extra 2 kg of potatoes and Maggi noodles to help with food supplies on the way to HMI Darjeeling’s base camp beside the glacier.

I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t a welcome relief to arrive at Tshoka (3000 meters) where we were greeted with dry cabin rooms and to our surprise, even some cardboard-thin mattresses.

The trek from Yuksom to Tshoka took us 8 wet hours. Unfortunately, the rain had penetrated our rucksack covers, resulting in the majority of our gear being soaked (including my passport) I highly recommend anyone doing a mountaineering course in India, especially in the wet altitude regions, purchase an internal plastic bag liner or dry bag for their gear.

Day 13: Acclimatization in Tshoka

The original plan for Day 13 was to stay in Tshoka and complete an acclimatization hike to help us get used to the rapidly increasing altitude. However, the morale was low in our class, with many people facing the grim reality of soaked boots, down jackets, and base layers.

To add to this, it took some members much longer to arrive in Tshoka, with a few making it in well after nightfall. 

So, our instructors decided to schedule day 13 as a rest day at the village. Luckily for us, Mother Nature gifted us a few bright hours of sunlight which did wonders for our wet gear and equipment. Fortunately, I was able to dry the majority of my gear by wearing wet clothes in the sun and using the wise strategy taught to me by my mate Ryan of wearing socks in my wet boots, and wringing them out every 10 minutes or so to absorb the water.

Other than the day-long battle against moisture, we enjoyed the peaceful vibes of Tshoka, which contained a beautiful tarn wrapped in prayer flags, as well as a small monastery and grazing yaks.

Day 14: Tshoka to Dzongri

Following a successful rest day in Tshoka, it was time to continue the trek to Dzongri, a small settlement at an altitude of 3940 meters. At a time schedule of 5, 6, and 7 (5 am for tea, 6 am for breakfast, and 7 am for departure) we headed off on the steep climb.

The ascent began immediately and continued through the beautiful silver pine and rhododendron forest. If it wasn’t for the fair weather, this trek would have surpassed the previous haul in terms of difficulty. We gained a total of 1058 meters in elevation gain over just 7.1 kilometers.

The highest point was at the 5.5-kilometer mark, a 4030-meter ridge marked by cairns and colorful prayer flags. We sat here for a moment to rest following the stew climb, before descending another 100 meters or so to Dzongri. 

Dzongri is a beautiful little village sitting beside a gentle stream and comprising a few huts and a small merchant stall offering snacks and other rarities in these wild regions. 

We purchased some chocolates, scoffed down our well-earned dal lunch, and then following not more than 15 minutes of rest, we departed for an acclimatization hike to a high viewpoint above Dzongri at 4155 meters (Dzongri Top).

This was a gentle walk without any load and led us to what we were told was a magnificent view of Kanchenjunga and surrounding peaks. Unfortunately, the clouds weren’t offering us any views, but it was still a nice way to wrap up a long day of hiking. 

The accommodation at Dzongri was large A-frame tents shared by 6-7 HMI trainees. 

Goechala Trek: The first few days of the trip to the Indian Himalayan Mountaineering Institutes' base camp follows the trekking route called the Goachala Trek. While nowhere near as popular as trails in Ladakh or Uttarakhand, this trek is arguably just as beautiful, finishing with amazing views of Mount Kanchenjunga.

Day 15: Dzongri to HMI Base Camp

Finally, it was time to embark on the final ascent to the HMI Base Camp (4500 m). Just as the day before, we packed up our gear and began trekking at 7 am. 

The trek was approximately 10.5 kilometers and involved a steady, gentle incline towards Dzongri La, a pass situated just 100 meters lower than the Himalayan Mountaineering Institutes’ famous base camp. From this pass, we descended gently into the Rathong glacial valley below to approximately 4000 meters, crossed the Rathong River, and began the gentle climb back up the ridge to base camp.

At this stage, we were kicking ourselves for the luck we brought. Yet again the day was foggy and not a single peak managed to penetrate the thick clouds. Apparently, Kangchenjunga (8586 m), the world's third tallest mountain, is normally visible from the Dzongri La section on a clear day.

However, we were still able to make it to base camp by 1:30 pm, which was acceptable considering the many mandatory breaks we were forced to endure.

The rest of the afternoon was spent getting accustomed to our new home for the week ahead. We sat outside waiting for the clouds to clear to witness the famous Himalayan view but again, had no luck on this front.

Our assigned accommodation was in “Tisco Hut”, a wide dorm-style hut with a single bunk bed row spanning roughly 15 meters across. In this hut, just over 50 men were able to secure a spot for their mattress, which would be our “bed” for the next week. 

Day 16: First Day at HMI Base Camp

After a surprisingly sound sleep, we were woken up at 4 am by enthusiastic coursemates who apparently have no concept of silence while others sleep.

I’m talking loud chatting, dramatic yawning, and even music playing while four dozen other people were trying to sleep… Besides the rude awakening, the first day at HMI Base Camp was quite enjoyable.

We began the day with a short hike to a viewpoint above the base camp, where we had a lecture on surrounding peaks. Unfortunately, the clouds were still too stubborn to part, and we were left questioning whether or not these peaks existed or not.

After returning to base camp, our instructors assigned us “central equipment”, including ropes, carabiners, and pitons, as well as 6000-meter snow boots, an ice axe, and crampons.

The rest of the afternoon was spent getting accustomed to the gear, with a theory lecture on glacier climbing and using our new boots. 

The same hindering landslides that challenged us on the journey from Yuksom to Thoka also meant that mules and yaks were unable to make the same journey. The result was limited food rations for the trek from Yuksom and at base camp. Needless to say, we were all very sick of dal and rice, which was the only thing we ate for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily.

Day 17: First Glacier Training Day

After over two weeks, it was finally time to train on the Rathong Glacier. Today also marked the first day of the official end of the Monsoon, and it did so in fashion, with the clouds clearing during our morning chai to finally reveal the beautiful surrounding Sikkim peaks.

Visible were the icy peaks of the Kabru mountain group including Rathong (6678 m) and Kokthang (6148 m), as well as Mount Frey (6010 m) and BC Roy (5480 m).

After breakfast, we hiked for 2.5 hours along the sandy moraine to reach the Rathong Glacier, where we donned our harnesses and strapped on our crampons.

Next, we teamed up in our ropes and practiced several glacial traverse techniques including ascending and descending with various methods of ice axe and crampon techniques.

In total we spent roughly 3 hours at the glacier before turning back, arriving at HMI Basecamp at 2:30 pm. 

After lunch, we all crammed into the tiny mess hut and were given a thorough lecture on glaciers.

Day 18: Ice Climbing on Rathong Glacier

Just like the morning prior, the clouds conformed to their seasonal October shift that marked the end of Sikkim’s seasonal monsoon and awarded us with a spectacularly clear mountain morning.

After breakfast, we once again set off for the glacier training area, this time with more confidence in the use of technical ice climbing equipment. 

The 2-hour walk out to the glacier is one I certainly didn’t mind repeating. The winding labyrinth through the Rathong moraine is spectacularly beautiful, with the Kabru peaks and the three Forked Peaks staring down on us from their high perch.

Below are some mountain shots I captured on the way.

All photographs on this blog post are taken by me and available for purchase as fine art prints or for commercial licensing. Please contact me for more information or read about how to use my images for free.

Today’s lesson involved double ice axe climbing, this time up a 20-meter ice wall while belayed on a top rope. The purpose of this glacier training was to get more experience and confidence using our crampon front points to balance on a vertical ice face.

After a few hours of training, we returned to HMI Basecamp content with a solid day of Himalayan mountaineering training. After lunch, our instructors told us that we had the remainder of the day off, and we hung out around the camp and enjoyed being in one of the most beautiful regions on earth.

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Day 19: Aid Climbing and River Crossing Practice

Today marked the fifth day of living at 4500 meters, and our bodies were finally getting more adjusted to the altitude. After another magnificent, cloudless morning, we fell in and separated in ropes at three different stations around camp.

Throughout the day, we rotated between these stations, which involved training specific river crossing techniques including travel traverse and suspension traverse, as well as climbing rock faces with the use of double Jumar (chest and foot jumar), and a very informative map reading activity. In all honesty, this was my personal favorite day of the HMI basic mountaineering course so far, with fabulous weather and fun, informative training activities. 

In the afternoon, all trainees reported for a late afternoon demonstration on rope fixing and ascending on a fixed rope, which would prepare us for the next day’s glacier training session. 

Day 20: Bad Weather in Sikkim

Unfortunately, our clear weather luck had run out on day 20.

Rain poured from midnight and well into the day. The result was a postponed day of glacier training. Instead, we practiced one of the most essential skills in mountaineering- patience. We hung out at HMI Base Camp, played cards, and prayed for good weather in the coming days.

Luckily the clouds began to clear in the late afternoon, which meant our instructors could host a demonstration on ice axe self-arrest techniques on the grassy slopes near advanced mountaineering course tents.

Day 21: Jumar Ascent on Rathong Glacier

The poor weather persisted through the night and into the early morning. Nerves were high as our instructors postponed the daily fall-in by an hour to keep an eye on weather conditions. However, in the end, we decided to push on to the glacier in the rain as otherwise, we would have missed out on one of the most essential mountaineering skills for future expeditions- ascending on a fixed line using a jumar and crampons. 

The weather worsened as we approached the glacier, but we pushed through and were able to get a few solid hours of jumar training under our belt. As we returned to base camp, the sun poked through the fog, signifying the start of a lovely rest of the afternoon in which we were offered a lecture on crevasse rescue.

Day 22: Final Glacier Training Day

After a week at HMI base camp, the final glacier training day was finally upon us.

Following an early start, we made the final trek over the golden hills, through the boulders and dark earth of the moraine, and onto the glacier. Today, our instructors set up several training stations, including a crevasse rescue exercise using C-pulley and Z-pulley systems, an ice piton fixing station, and two glacier climbing exercises using jumars and ice axes.

At the conclusion of the drills, we all took some celebratory photos together on Rathong Glacier, before turning back and trekking back to base camp through the rain. Once we arrived, we fell in and were prepped for the following day, where we were to climb a nearby rocky peak called Renok (Black Peak).

Day 23: Height Gain on Renok Peak

The mountains gifted us with a beautiful clear morning on our final full day at HMI base camp, where we were set to climb a nearby rocky peak called “Black Peak” or “Renok Peak”.

The trek began on the opposite end of the camp from the now very familiar route to the glacier. The trail bent around some sweeping hills and undulated lightly through a beautiful clear valley, with the Fork Peaks, Kapru Dome, and Kapru South in full view for the majority of the morning.

After about an hour and a half, we began a short-lived but steep ascent before arriving at a boulder field. Here, we strapped into our harnesses and roped up in groups of 5 to make the light scramble to the summit. Disappointingly for me, this was quite an easy climb that required very little technical effort. However, it was clear that this was the first time several people on our course were exposed to scrambling on semi-exposed rock.

As a result, the climb took much longer than it should have. At the summit, we were told the altitude of this peak pushed beyond 5000 meters. Conversely, a quick map search confirmed my Garmin’s altimeter’s reading of just below 4,800 meters. Disappointingly, we were told that if we wanted to climb Frey Peak or anything above 5500 meters, we would have to return for the advanced mountaineering course at HMI. 

This was contradictory to what I'd been told by HMI staff when I signed up. I don't want to sound like I'm complaining but this is good to know for those of you interested in getting a climb in for "height gain" day.

That afternoon, we fell in for the last afternoon session and returned our central equipment and glacier training gear including snow boots, crampons, and ice axes. Our instructors also briefed us on the coming trek back to Yuksom which would begin early the following day.

Day 24: The Sikkim Descent: HMI Base Camp to Tshoka

We awoke on the morning of day 24 at 4:30 am to pack our bags and fall in for the final time at HMI Base camp.

Today, we had a long trek ahead, this time again with heavy loads but the distance would be doubled from the route up as our goal was Tshoka, 1,500 meters lower.

We internalized our goodbyes to the silver peaks and corrugated iron huts that had been our home for the past week and began the rolling descent down the Rathong Valley towards Dzongri La (Dzongri Pass)

It took us one day to cover the distance we did in two the week prior and arrived at Tshoka at around 3:30 pm.

Day 25: Tshoka to Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

The final descent from Tshoka back to Yuksom involved a knee-burning 1,500-meter total elevation drop over the wet and muddy 15-kilometer path through the Sikkim foothills. We set a decent pace from the onset but unfortunately, our instructors committed to overly-frequent rest stops to wait for the group to catch up as one, which put a hamper on the overall enjoyment of the trek for me.

I'm never in the rush to finish a trek, but constantly stopping every 10 minutes for a break really breaks up the flow of the hike and is one thing I struggled with.

Nevertheless, this region, while wet, muddy, and leech-filled is undeniably beautiful. Dense rainforest covers the majority of the path, frequently crossing pure streams sourced from megalithic waterfalls draping the ever-rising slopes. 

We arrived at Yuksom at roughly 3:00 pm, polished off a quick meal of rice and dal, and set off for HMI in our jeep convoy.

Again, as foreigners we stopped at the border checkpoint out of Sikkim to stamp our passports, arriving at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute Campus by 6:30 pm.

Day 26: HMI Sports Climbing Competition

To most accustomed to the comforts of regular life, the bunk beds at HMI are far from what we’d call luxury. But, after spending close to a fortnight sleeping on a few planks of wood lined by a 5 mm thin yoga mat in a narrow, tunneled hut shared by over 50 men at altitude– the first night back at HMI felt irrationally lavish. 

Waking up from a long, uninterrupted sleep, we ate breakfast and fell in at the courtyard. Our instructors prepared us for the coming two final days, which would involve a sports climbing competition, returning our equipment, and the final graduation.

The first thing in store for us was the sports climbing competition. We were hoping that this would be held on the big outdoor wall, but it ended up being a simple, timed route on the indoor wall. We’d only get one chance to reach the top, following the marked route, and the fastest person to complete it would win. To my surprise, only four people managed to complete the route from the entire batch.

Then, once everyone had climbed, we gathered our equipment, including all the trekking gear, harness sets, and rented clothing, and returned it to the Equipment Room in a rope-wise manner.

Day 27: Graduation 

The final day at HMI involved little learning or physical training but was a good practice in patience for the long, arduous bureaucratic formalities expected of an Indian government institute.

It took 2.5 hours for us to line up and wait for each student to receive a pin, followed by a quick handshake from the president. In the end, I was certainly glad the "graduation ceremony" was over.

Regardless, as soon as it was, we all enjoyed taking group photos, congratulating each other, and sharing an overall sense of accomplishment.

Usually, candidates would stay an additional night after graduation and depart the following morning after breakfast. However, a couple of us had arranged for an early departure following the graduation, which meant we quickly had to run around the campus for a final cut of the red tape to attain clearance signatures from all offices to leave.

Departing HMI left me with mixed emotions. I would be lying if I said I wasn't happy to be finished, but the memories and experience I'd earned at HMI will stick with me for life.

Preparing For the BMC at the Darjeeling Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

Decided that you're going to take the plunge and commit to the 28-day Basic Mountaineering Course at HMI Darjeeling? Here are a few tips for preparation.

Recommended Gear

As mentioned in the above equipment section, HMI Darjeeling provides the majority of the equipment that you'll need.

However, if you're serious about mountaineering, it's a good idea to invest in some technical equipment of your own. If you're going to do so, then buying this for the course is a good idea, since you'll get to practice with the gear that you'll actually use to summit peaks in the future.

Recommended gear for mountaineers that you might want on the course include:

• Good weatherproof jacket - GoreTex or similar membranes are ideal but expensive. Don't be one of those guys bringing an umbrella to a mountaineering expedition!
• Warm base layers - essential at high altitudes
• Deodorant - please guys!
• Water bottle filter - unfortunately, this Gora got stomach problems due to the water after drinking unfiltered. After this I filtered all my water using my Grayl GeoPress water bottle - highly recommend water bottle filters to any serious adventurer instead of straw filters.
• Climbing harness - lightweight harnesses are better for high-altitude expeditions
• Ice Axe - the ones that HMI provides are a little outdated, blunt and straight, non-technical variations
• Crampons- similarly, having your own crampons means you can keep them sharp, making glacial traverses and front-pointing much easier and safer
• 6000 m+ snow boots - a second pair of boots that are essential for glacier training and high-altitude expeditions. The boots provided by HMI are cheaper, hard-plastic boots. Good brands for comfort, safety, and longevity are La Sportiva, Millet, Scarpa, and similar
• GoPro - the most versatile camera to capture memories. I recommend a 3M mount as well to record climbing (fixed to your helmet)
• Hiking Backpack - I used the HMI backpack, however, I recommend bringing your own as I was not a fan of the mount. A 60-70L pack is recommended for the course.
• Multiple pairs of socks - I recommend bringing 3-4 pairs of trekking socks at least.
• Sleeping bag - the one provided is adequate but has been used by hundreds of people before you. If you're hygiene-conscious, it's a good idea to bring your own. A -20ºC bag is a good option.
• Sleeping mat - the yoga mat-style sleeping mate provided does the job but is not very comfortable. The Therm-a-Rest Z-Lite is a great option if you're planning on future expeditions.

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Fitness

While I can confirm that the course is not overly physically demanding for those of us who have spent a fair bit of time trekking or embarking on other adventure activities, it was clear that many candidates did not take preparation seriously. Hence, several failed the Pandem Test and were not permitted to continue on the trek to HMI Base Camp.

On the other hand, it was clear after day one of PT that I overprepared physically. Overall, the PT was much too easy and didn't provide much benefit for me, nor did the tests provide the challenge that I was looking for.

HMI provides a recommended pre-course training program. However, I don't think this is a very good one for the activities you'll be performing.

As a baseline, I recommend that every candidate prepares by working up to sustaining a 5-6 kilometer run with an incline. I also recommend doing physical exercises like pushups, situps, and squats, which will help with PT and overall strength for climbing.

Additionally, if you have access to a climbing wall in your town or city, getting some basic rock climbing experience will also come in handy.

Alternative Mountaineering Institutes in India

While HMI is arguably the most famous mountaineering school in India, there are several others to consider as well.

The most reputable schools include:

• Nehru Institute (NIM) - Uttarkashi
• Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports (ABVIMAS) - Manali
• Jawahar - Pahalgam

I have heard great things about both Nehru Institute and ABVIMAS and spoken to instructors from both schools who highly recommend their courses.

There are several other institutes including one in nearby Gangtok., However, these are reserved for military training only.

Final Review: Would I recommend HMI to Aspiring Mountaineers?

If you've read my comprehensive day-by-day breakdown, then you know that I have both great and not-so-great things to say about HMI Darjeeling.

Pros

Overall, I would certainly recommend anybody who is serious about acquiring as many mountaineering skills as possible for the most cost-effective price. Climbing schools in the Alps and North America ask for upwards of $8,000 for condensed versions of these courses (10-14 days). Comparably, HMI's course costs an eighth of this.

On the other hand, if you instead choose to embark on some organized 6000-meter expeditions to begin learning mountaineering skills, I'd say that you'd have to complete at least 3 or 4 to get the same level of practical experience as the BMC. Again, this would cost several thousand dollars anywhere in the Himalayas, including Nepal.

In terms of value for money, the BMC at HMI is a no-brainer.

Furthermore, training on the Rathong Glacier is amazing. West Sikkim is one of the most picturesque and remote regions of the Himalayas, and you will be training on blue ice beneath some of the world's most majestic peaks. In fact, this region is blocked off to the public, and only military and HMI candidates are permitted here!

For foreigners, spending time in India is also a valuable experience. Although you'll undoubtedly get hit with some culture shock, Indian people are among some of the friendliest on earth and you'll make some lifelong friends in this course. Even though I had traveled in India extensively prior to this, I was still surprised by just how welcoming and kind Indians are to foreigners.

Lastly, several of the instructors are incredibly experienced, with huge mountaineering feats like the seven summits under their belts. This offers a good opportunity to learn from highly skilled and respected mountaineers.

Cons

Training at HMI, or any mountaineering institute in India, has in my opinion, some pitfalls.

Firstly, the course structure and content are quite regimented. While both Nepal and western climbing nations shifted to a more effective and flexible, small-team approach decades ago, India still sticks to its militaristic view of mountaineering.

For example, the majority of alpine ascents in India are still completed by military regiments rather than small groups of dedicated mountaineers. Being a government institute, HMI embraces this approach in its training and its teaching of alpine climbing. Of course, as a foreigner leaving HMI, I'm far more likely to climb on smaller expeditions of 4-8 people, rather than upwards of 30 in a hierarchical, military fashion– so, much of the structural and cultural elements that HMI teach is wasted on me.

Of course, this has mixed perceptions, but in my view, this is an outdated and ineffective approach to mountaineering.

Consequently, while at the institute, you are treated like an army cadet, not an aspiring climber. Expect strict rules and limits on your freedom of movement (even after training hours), as well as having to line up and wait for hours to listen to bureaucratic nonsense. The most frustrating part for me as a western climber is being forced to pay respects to titles, even to those individuals who have never stepped foot on a summit- I look forward to the day that India starts to acknowledge that respect is earned by character and merit, not given in titles.

Don't get me wrong, I would embrace a regimented schedule if the course coordinators were able to stick to it themselves. Unfortunately, you'll be standing around a lot in this course as organization and coordination is severely lacking. As a single, simple example (trust me, there are many), instead of breaking up the course into segments for each activity, 60+ candidates get asked to stand in a line and wait for their turn to climb an artificial wall once, all while a dozen instructors watch on. There are loads of examples like this that you'll endure throughout the course– but I think you get my point.

Unfortunately, as an Indian candidate told us. This is an Indian Government institute. While they've had over six decades to solve their issues, things apparently don't change with these types of structures.

Conclusion

I apologize for the above rant. However, my goal as always is to provide you with the most honest account in my reviews. In order to do that, I have to let you in on both the good and the bad.

With that said, even with all of the pitfalls and frustrating moments at HMI, I would certainly recommend the experience to anybody serious about beginning their mountaineering journey.

Looking back now, this was one of the most memorable adventure travel experiences I've had to date.

Some of the people that I had the privilege of meeting will be friends for life. And, the experience that I gained in Sikkim, along with the knowledge passed down to me at the HMI campus has already proved to be extremely useful in the mountains.

However, aspiring mountaineers who value their time more than their money would do better training at a European or North American mountaineering school, where the structure and systems are more fine-tuned to modern alpine climbing.

More Photos from the BMC With HMI Darjeeling

More Adventure Inspiration After The Mountaineering Course

I hope that you've enjoyed this comprehensive blog post about training at the HMI Darjeeling mountaineering institute in India. While you're still here on my blog, check out some of my other guides to India below for more adventure travel inspiration.

• 20 Best Things to do in Rishikesh, India - Ultimate 2023 Travel Guide
• 3 Best Trekking Travel Insurance Policies for High Altitude Hiking & Expeditions
• 7 Best Taj Mahal View Point Locations in Agra, India 2023
• 71+ Inspiring Travel Instagram Captions & Quotes
• Climbing Mera Peak (6476 m) in Nepal - Everything You Need to Know
• India Itinerary 1 Month Journey - Best Things to do in India in 2023
• Travel Packing List for India: What You Need to Bring On a Trip to India
• Where to Find the Blue City in Jodhpur - Rajasthan, India 2023

The post Training at HMI Darjeeling – (Himalayan Mountaineering Institute in India) appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Like most fortifications, cities, monuments, and well, pretty much everything in Rajasthan, the Jaisalmer Fort goes by many names. The Jaisalmer Fort, the Golden Fort, the Sonar Quila, whatever you call it, this alluring sandstone fortification is undeniably one of the most beautiful forts in Rajasthan, and perhaps in all of India.

In this travel guide, I’ll detail everything you need to know about the Jaisalmer Fort in Rajasthan in hopes of making your visit unforgettable.

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About the Jaisalmer Fort

The Jaisalmer Fort is known as one of the world’s last remaining living forts. What this means is that it’s still widely inhabited, with one-fourth of Jaisalmer’s population still residing within its walls. UNESCO also recently declared the 1500ft fort a World Heritage Site in 2013.

The fort is known as the second oldest in Rajasthan and features a unique yellow sandstone construction. The reason why it’s known as the Golden Fort or Sonar Quila only becomes apparent during dawn and at sunset. During this golden hour, the waning Thar Desert sun cast its great rays upon the fort, lighting it up like a great flame in the desert expanse.

Observing the citadel from below the hill on which it stands, one immediately notices its many columned bastions which are stanchioned by sandstone parapets along its length. Within the Jaisalmer Fort is a sprawling mini-city with lavish palaces and masterfully carved Jain temples.

While in modern times the Jaisalmer Fort no longer serves as an impenetrable defense from invasion, it’s still a significant cultural and historic part of the Old City of Jaisalmer.

Where is Jaisalmer Fort? How to Get Here

The Jaisalmer fort in Rajasthan is located not far from India’s westernmost tip, just 85 kilometers from the border of Pakistan. As a result, the Golden City is as far west as many tours tend to travel in India, and offers a drier and more torrid landscape than the rest of Rajasthan.

If you haven’t yet arrived in Jaisalmer, then don’t worry, the Jaisalmer fort is unmistakable. In fact, this entire Rajasthani desert city encircles the Jaisalmer Fort and is visible from almost anywhere you look.

Jaisalmer is connected by rail and bus to many other tourist hubs in India including Jodhpur, Delhi, and Ahmedabad. In my opinion, the best and most hassle-free way to get to Jaisalmer is to take an overnight sleeper bus. I’ve written a lengthy guide about the perks of bus travel in India which includes tips to make the most of the experience. Check it out here.

Entrance Fee

When you look at other sources online, it can get a little confusing as to what the actual entrance fee to get into Jaisalmer Fort is. To clear things up, there is no entry fee required to enter the fort as many people live here, and there are dozens of hotels within the complex.

The entry fee that you’ll often find quoted online refers to the fort palace, which is a worthwhile visit for its historic architecture and impressive museum. Below are the updated Jaisalmer Fort palace entry fees as updated on the Jaisalmer Tourism page.

Foreigners fee: 250 rupees

Indian fee: 50 rupees

Camera fee: 50 for camera | 100 for video camera

Fort Timings

Again, the Jaisalmer Fort, Rajasthan is a living fort. Therefore, it is open at all times of the day and night. However, the fort palace is only open from 9 AM to 6 PM daily.

Jaisalmer Fort History

The Sonar Quila of Jaisalmer was constructed in 1156 AD, over 860 years ago, by the Bahti Rajput ruler (Rawal) Jaisal. It’s immediately evident that he also named the citadel desert city after himself.

The Jaisalmer Fort was an important trading hub, strategically constructed on the crossroads of historic trading routes, including the Silk Road. Jaisal and his city’s citizens used the fort as a secure capital that flourished from the network of regional trade caravans.

As you’d expect, there have been several raids, sieges, and battles at the Jaisalmer Fort in Rajasthan. The earliest recorded siege lasted for nine years by the Delhi Sultan Alauddin Khalji before falling and being abandoned for several years before re-occupation by surviving Bajtis.

Following several more attacks, it was the Mughals who occupied the Jaisalmer Fort for several hundred years before the colonizing Brits of the East India Company.

RELATED: Gadisar Lake Jaisalmer – Rajasthan Travel Guide

Things to Do & See Inside the Jaisalmer Fort

If you’ve got a bit more time on your hands, then it’s possible to experience most of the things to do in Jaisalmer and the fort independently within a couple of days.

Below you’ll find a rundown of what to see inside the Jaisalmer Fort so you can explore the incredible living fort interior.

Jain Temple Inside the JAISALMER FORT

Jain temples are commonly known as the most beautiful out of all of the religious structures found throughout India. Within the Jaisalmer fort, there are a total of seven Jain temples constructed between 1300 and 1700 AD. Out of these seven wonders, you’ll also find a total of 6000 intricately carved statues!

The most impressive Jain temple within the citadel complex is the Parsvanath Temple. In saying that, they are all unique, representing different idols, scriptures, and treasures.

Maharaja’s Palace

While visiting the Jaisalmer Fort in Rajasthan, one of the main attractions is the Maharaja’s Palace, the former residence of the Jaisalmer rulers.

Those in charge of restorations have converted the fort palace into a modern museum, housing carefully preserved artifacts from the times of old. Visitors can explore the various rooms and terraces, from the King’s bedroom, audience room, and the sweeping main terrace which offers enchanting views of the city below.

Tazia Tower

Located directly opposite the Maharaja’s Palace is the spectacular Tazia Tower. This five-story pinnacle was constructed by very talented Muslim craftsmen in a fashion made famous in Bengal.

The Tazia Tower is often rated as one of the most famous attractions and things to see from inside the Jaisalmer Fort. However, you’ll have to find a good vantage point along the fort walls to view it from the fort.

Chauhata Square

After entering the Jaisalmer Fort through the Hawa Pol (Gate of the Winds), the scene opens up to a lively and spacious square that had me feeling like I was in a Game of Thrones set. This main square of Jaisalmer Fort is called Chauhata Square. You will find eager tour guides, street performers, markets, and a bustling mix of residents and visitors going about their day.

Laxminath Temple

Dedicated to the feminine deity Laxmi, the Laxmi, the Laxminath Temple is one of the oldest buildings in Jaisalmer’s Golden Fort. It was constructed in 1494 to honor Laxmi, who is the Goddess of Wealth.

Jaisalmer Fort Viewpoints and Sunset Spots

While historic monuments, master stone carvings, and dwellings of kings are all interesting, sometimes one of the best things to do in a fort city is to chase a viewpoint.

There are several narrow lanes and tight cobblestone steps leading up to the Jaisalmer Fort’s walls and buttresses. Interestingly, while the main attractions were littered with tourists, I found myself free to explore most of the best wall viewpoints completely alone.

Rooftop Cafes

If you’re on a budget but still want a room within the fort complex with an attached rooftop restaurant, then I highly recommend Surja Hotel. You can pick up a room here for as low as $6 a night with rooftop views pictured below.

Markets, Bazaars, & Street Performers

The Jaisalmer Fort of Rajasthan truly lives up to its name as a living fort.

As you wander the streets in search of the next highlight or attraction, you’ll pass dozens of markets, handicraft storefronts, and talented street performers. This liveliness is what I believe truly creates the ambience of a real, breathing community.

Bonus: Book a Jaisalmer Camel Safari

You may or may not know that the number one attraction in Jaisalmer is the world-renowned camel safari. Okay, this isn’t really an answer to what to see inside the Jaisalmer Fort, but it’s too big of an attraction in the Golden City to simply leave out.

While there are several operators in Jaisalmer, one truly stands out in terms of quality and authenticity. The Real Desert Man Camel Safari is a tour operating family with a strong lineage of Thar Desert camel herders and I full-heartily recommend them.

Before you rush out to barter for the experience, make sure to check out my Jaisalmer camel safari guide which compares the best tours and explains why you should book a 2-day, 1-night safari!

Perhaps one of the best experiences in Jaisalmer is the ability to sleep inside the ancient fort complex! Below I’ve listed some of the best accommodation options that should satisfy a range of budgets.

• Where I stayed (budget room inside the Jaisalmer fort): Hotel Surja – Comfortable rooms within the fort with a rooftop terrace and restaurant for under $5USD? Seriously this place was easily one of the best deals I’ve ever come across.
• Best Jaisalmer Hostel: Toffu Safari – Hostelworld rates Toffu Safari as one of the best hostels in Jaisalmer year after year. While I didn’t stay here, I visited twice since a friend of mine was staying here at the time. It has a great roof-top terrace, comfortable beds, and a great vibe.
• Luxury option within the fort: Killa Bhawan – If you’ve ever wanted a luxury room in an ancient fort, Jaisalmer is probably the place to book one. For what you get, the prices of accommodation are ridiculously affordable. The Killa Bhawan is one of the top-rated luxury accommodation options within the Jaisalmer fort.
• Glamping Safari Camp: Real Desert Man Safari Camp – Are you a fan of glamping? If you’re not really after the full Jaisalmer camel safari experience, then you can book a night in the desert with this glamping camp.

View on Booking.com

Jaisalmer Fort FAQs

Before I wrap up this travel guide to the Jaisalmer Fort in Rajasthan, I’ll aim to answer some of the most frequently asked questions, most of which I too sought the answers to prior to arriving.

I’ve already covered most of this within the guide above, but this will serve as a quick and easy Q&A for those in a rush.

More Photos of the Jaisalmer Fort in Rajasthan

Below I’ve included some more clicks and snaps that I took of the Jaisalmer Fort in Rajasthan.

I hope that these images inspire you to explore this incredible marvel in India’s Golden City!

More Rajasthan Travel Guides and Blogs

Did you enjoy the splendor of one of India’s most incredible forts, The Jaisalmer Fort in Rajasthan? If so, make sure to check out some of my other many guides to help you plan your trip to Rajasthan.

• 2-Day Camel Safari In Jaisalmer – Everything You Need to Know
• 7 Best Jaipur Viewpoints – Where to Go for Jaipur Sunset Views
• Bahubali Hills Udaipur – Epic Lake Viewpoint
• Exploring the Jaipur Wall Near Amer Fort, Rajasthan
• Gadisar Lake Jaisalmer – Rajasthan Travel Guide
• How to Get to the Jaipur Stepwell in 2023: Panna Meena Ka Kund – Rajasthan
• Jodhpur Stepwell, Toorji Ka Jhalra (Toorji’s Step Well) in Jodhpur, Rajasthan
• Where to Find the Blue City in Jodhpur – Rajasthan, India 2023

MY CAMERA AND PHOTOGRAPHY EQUIPMENT

• Mirrorless Camera: Canon R5
• Drone: DJI Mavic Pro 2
• 360 Action Camera: Insta360 One X2
• Landscape Lens: Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L
• All-Round Lens: Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L
• Telephoto Lens: Canon RF 100-500mm f/f/4.5-7.1 L
• Long Action Pole: Insta360 Invisible Pole (BulletTime)
• Landscape Lens Filter: Hoya Circular Polarizer
• Camera Backpack: F-Stop Tilopa
• Favorite Photography Accessory: Peak Design Capture Clip

For a list of all my recommended photography gear (including what I use and why) check out my guide to camera gear for travel.

If you’d like to use any of the photographs on this website, please visit my licensing page to find out how. I also sell professional fine-art prints, visit my Print Store or contact me directly for customs prints of any images on We Seek Travel.

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The post Jaisalmer Fort in Rajasthan: Travel Guide and Photos From the Sonar Quila appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Did you know that there are over 1.6 million buses in India, transporting roughly 70 million people per day? It’s true, bus travel in India is is one of the best ways to get from A to B on a budget. With “sleeper class” buses, even budget backpackers can get a comfortable ride when hopping from city to city.

In this guide, I’ll detail everything you need to know about traveling on a sleeper bus in India, why I think it’s the best way to travel on a budget, and a few tips worth reading.

The Ultimate India Travel Resource

Looking for more India travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for the trip of a lifetime.

• Ultimate 1 Month India Itinerary
• Essential India Packing List

About Sleeper Buses in India

If you’re from America or even Australia like me, then you’re probably not too used to long-distance bus travel. In fact, the first time I traveled consistently on buses was my first backpacking trip in Europe back in 2015. I remember thinking to myself how easy and convenient it was and from the get-go, I was hooked.

Fast forward five years and long-distance buses are still one of my favorite ways to travel. Although you might not expect it, Indian buses are surprisingly efficient, easy to organize (once you know the process), and comfortable – particularly if you’re traveling on overnight sleeper buses in India.

Okay, but, what exactly is a “sleeper bus?”

Sleeper Class buses are those built with either 2-level or 3-level sleeping bunks, or beds, where passengers can pull a curtain or screen to get a private bed onboard the bus.

Sleeper buses in India usually only run on long-distance routes. For this reason, sleeper buses are the perfect way to get a comfortable night’s sleep, save on accommodation, and get from city to city in India cheaply.

Pros and Cons of Traveling By Sleeper Bus in India

So, whether you’re in the planning stages of a trip, or you’re already in India and wondering how to get to your next destination, this should help you make a more informed choice.

Cons

Let’s start with the cons.

• Booking can be confusing (read on for how to book)
• The language barrier can make finding your bus and stops difficult at first
• Sleeper buses can sometimes be overloaded (they sometimes cram people onto the floor)
• Bus terminals are a little chaotic, especially for first-time visitors
• Bus terminals aren’t always near the center of the city

First of all, buses in India can get a little crazy, to say the least. However, making trips on Indian sleeper buses isn’t as chaotic as you might expect. Anyone planning their first long-distance bus trip in India is going to feel a little overwhelmed at first. Regardless, I firmly believe that if you use the information you learn in this blog post, everything will go much smoother.

Pros

You can probably already get the sense that I’m a fan of sleeper bus travel in India, here’s why.

• Indian sleeper buses are cheaper than trains
• Bunks are usually pretty darn comfortable (if you choose the right bus)
• You’ll save money on accommodation
• Traveling at night means you’ll get more time to enjoy your days
• Buses are usually faster than trains
• Sleeper buses are easier to book than trains
• Sleeper bus routes are very extensive
• Bus tickets can be booked at late notice (train tickets are often sold out for weeks in advance)

The main perks of traveling from city to city in India by sleeper bus is that you will save money and time. Buses are often half the price of a train ticket, can be quickly booked on an app, and don’t require an agent.

Booking The Best Buses For Long Distance Travel in India

Alright, what about actually booking overnight buses in India? The best way to find, compare, and book overnight bus routes is to use Bookaway and Redbus.

It used to be the case years ago, where you would need an Indian government ID to book a bus. Things have changed in recent years, making travel in India much easier and more convenient.

These days, all you need to do is book online using either of the websites above.

These booking websites work similarly to those you might already use quite often, like Booking.com, Hostelworld, or Klook. They act as an online booking platform, whereby they list bus route and seat options from various travel agents in India.

This means that you can select your route, compare timings, and, most importantly, always get the best price. Trust me when I say that you won’t get a better deal; most Indians use these apps rather than haggling.

The rating system on both apps also makes it easy to spot quality transport companies.

Best overnight sleeper buses in India: I found that “Jain Travels” and “Mahalaxmi” had the most reliable and quality sleeper buses in Rajasthan. You can compare alternatives on BookAway or Redbus in other states and regions.

Redbus vs Bookaway

Personally, I tend to use Bookaway more than Redbus. To be honest, most of the better bus routes overlap between the two websites/apps, and they both usually have the same price listings. I’ve just been a fan of Bookaway for a while after using it extensively to travel in Myanmar. However, I usually check both apps to make sure I haven’t missed a deal.

How Much does Sleeper Bus Travel Cost in India

Sleeper bus prices vary by quality, timings, and of course, distance. However, they are easily one of the most affordable means of long-distance transport in India. Typically, rates start as low as 450 rupees for shorter (6-hour) trips like those from say Jaipur to Jaisalmer. For longer distance journeys, prices can be as high as 1100 rupees.

Remember though, that booking an overnight sleeper bus means that you won’t have to pay for accommodation that night.

What to Expect on an Indian Sleeper Bus

With the more delicate details out of the way, what’s it actually like traveling on a sleeper bus in India? As I briefly mentioned, quality can vary greatly depending on the company you book with.

After booking your bus route online, you’ll be sent a confirmation email. If you booked on the app, the details will be added to your trips. Here, you’ll get information on where to board the bus, a picture of the bus (to help you find it), and the recommended boarding time.

Tip: If you’re struggling to find the boarding point or the bus itself, look for the name of the transport company on the virtual booking ticket. Also, ask locals. They’ll often point you in the right direction.

Once you board, show the driver your ticket, and he’ll direct you to your allocated bunk.

The bunked passenger section is almost always isolated from the driver’s “cabin” by a door. Take this as a blessing – Indian bus drivers love to chat (scream) all night. Bunks in the passenger section are either 2-level or 3-level beds with ladder access and flooded by neon lights.

High-quality sleeper class buses usually include:

• Bottled water (I bring my Grayl bottle anyway – read my review here)
• Blanket
• USB charger ports or wall sockets
• Air conditioning
• A plexiglass screen or soft pull-across curtain

Other than being able to stretch out horizontally, having a curtain/screen to pull across is probably the best feature of sleeper buses in India. In my opinion, it makes for a much easier sleep knowing that I have some private space.

READ: 2-Day Overnight Camel Safari Jaisalmer

My Best and Worst Sleeper Bus Experience

The best sleeper bus journey that I ever had was between Delhi and Varanasi. My bunk had a plastic screen, air-con, USB ports, reading lights, pillows, blankets, and a full window to look out.

In contrast, the worst sleeper bus didn’t have a curtain, and I was forced to share the bunk with a rather large Indian gentleman. To make the situation worse, the wall socket had been ripped out, exposing wires that would shock me in the night.

On another occasion, unbeknownst to all passengers, the entire front of the bus had fallen off on the highway during the night. We only noticed on a morning toilet stop, where we realized that the driver had been copping bugs and wind to the face the entire night!

Oh well, another story, eh?

Safety Tips About Bus Travel in India

Before you head off, I’ve also written this section dedicated to helping answer your most plaguing questions about sleeper bus travel in India. Who knows? You might learn something.

First of All, Are Sleeper Buses Safe?

Although there’s the occasional mishap, sleeper buses in India are very safe. Generally speaking, Indians feel obligated to ensure that foreigners have a great time in India. Many will go out of their way to make sure you are safe and avoid danger.

Of course, I speak from a position of privilege being a male backpacker, and I acknowledge that females might have a different experience. However, I. did travel in India for two months with my girlfriend Haylea and also met loads of other solo female travelers taking the sleeper bus route who share my views.

Couples in an Indian Sleeper Bus

For couples traveling on sleeper buses in India, sleeping in the same bunk is fine, and actually encouraged. There are usually double sleeper bunks on most buses, so it’s actually great for couples traveling in India.

Do Sleeper Buses Have Toilets in India?

Unfortunately (or… fortunately?), night buses don’t typically have toilets in India. As a general tip, go before you leave as there is no telling when the driver will stop for a roadside toilet stop. Realistically though, all buses stop at least every few hours and sometimes stop by request.

Which Seat is Better in a Sleeper Bus?

By far, the best seat, or bed, on a sleeper bus in India is one on the top level, preferably somewhere near the back of the bus. Having a top-row bed avoids anyone’s feet disrupting your slumber as they climb up to their bunk. Furthermore, the back-row beds are further away from the chatty driver and ticket-man.

What About Luggage?

All overnight sleeper buses in India have undercarriage luggage compartments. The ticketmen are usually very trustworthy with your luggage. Still, I always insist on stowing my own bags and bring any valuables like laptops and cameras into the bunk with me. .

which sleeper seat is best?

Wondering whether you should pick the upper or lower berth on a sleeper bus?

Generally speaking, I prefer the bottom bunk, somewhere near the back of the bus. This avoids people climbing over your bed to reach their bunk, and will also avoid the most foot traffic passing your bed during the middle of the night.

More Indian Travel Guides and Blogs

I hope that this quick guide to traveling India by sleeper bus has been useful in planning your trip. If you have any questions, updates, or suggestions for this blog post, please let me know in the comments. Otherwise, why not get some more inspiring ideas for your India trip by checking out some of my other articles and guides below?

I’d also love to hear about your experiences traveling on an overnight sleeper bus in India. Do you think it’s the best way to travel in India on a budget?

• 2-Day Camel Safari In Jaisalmer – Everything You Need to Know
• 20 Best Things to do in Rishikesh, India – Ultimate 2023 Travel Guide
• 4 Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Pushkar
• 7 Best Taj Mahal View Point Locations in Agra, India 2023
• Bahubali Hills Udaipur – Epic Lake Viewpoint
• Exploring Dada Harir Stepwell in Ahmedabad – India
• Exploring the Jaipur Wall Near Amer Fort, Rajasthan
• How to Get to the Jaipur Stepwell in 2023: Panna Meena Ka Kund – Rajasthan
• Savitri Temple Pushkar – Best Viewpoint In Pushkar
• Top 3 Unmissable Waterfalls in Rishikesh
• Travel Packing List for India: What You Need to Bring On a Trip to India
• Varanasi Ganges River Boat Trip: Sunrise Morning Boat Ride – Complete Guide
• Where to Find the Blue City in Jodhpur – Rajasthan, India 2023

The post Overnight Sleeper Buses in India – Best Way to Travel India on a Budget appeared first on We Seek Travel.

I still remember the first time I laid eyes on the Taj Mahal. The truth is, I found myself in Agra for the sole purpose of checking it out. Yet, I was initially skeptical. Could it really be that magnificent, or is it just another tourist trap?

I’m sure I’m not alone on this, and that many others share the same initial sentiment. However, let me tell you that from the first moment I saw that white marble dome from the riverbank viewpoint, I was speechless.

It's difficult to describe the beauty of the Taj Mahal, especially for travelers like me, who usually hang out at waterfalls or in the mountains rather than chasing views of a building. So, I better leave it to the literary experts, quoting the mausoleum's creator Shah Jahan:

"The Taj Mahal's beauty makes the sun and the moon shed tears from their eyes."

So, I set out to find the best Taj Mahal view point locations and spots to see it in Agra. After a bit of research and by the help of some local experts, I was able to find and photograph these: the 7 Best Taj Mahal Viewpoint Locations in Agra.

Best View of the Taj Mahal From a Hotel

Want to experience the beauty of the Taj Mahal from your own hotel balcony? Below are the top options in Agra.

• Hotel Kamal - This is a great option for people looking for a hotel with a great Taj Mahal vantage point. It's located only a few hundred meters from the Taj and sports a rooftop terrace and restaurant.
• Hotel Clark's Shiraz - This one is a little further from the Taj Mahal but offers great views of the UNESCO World Heritage building as well as a pool, massage parlor, and spa.
• Joey's Hostel - If you're looking for a backpacker's hostel in Agra with a rooftop Tah Mahal view point, this might be the one. It's rated as one of the best hostels in Agra for its vibe, location, and views.
• Zig Zag Hostel - I've already mentioned Zig Zag above but in case you missed it, these guys run nightly walking tours to a secret Taj Mahal viewpoint that is only accessible to Zig Zag guests. Check them out!

More on Booking.com

7 Best Taj Mahal View Point Locations: Where to See the Taj in Agra

Below you'll find my list of the best Taj Mahal view point locations so that you can photograph some unique perspectives of this incredible mausoleum.

At the end of this post, I've also included a quick roundup of some of the best hotels and rooftop restaurants to get a glimpse of the Taj Mahal.

1. From Inside the Taj Mahal Grounds

By far, the best way to see the Taj Mahal is to witness it up close from within the grounds. Immediately upon wandering through the crimson gates, the Taj Mahal, or "crown of palaces" reveals itself under a symmetrical reflective pond. Entrance to the Taj Mahal is a little pricey, but easily worth it.

You will be able to explore the palace gardens, the riverfront terraces, and the mind-bending marble exterior as you climb up the steps. From within the Taj, you will also get a glimpse of the tomb where its creator: Shah Jahan and his favorite wife; Mumtaz Mahal are laid to rest.

Book: Skip the Line Ticket

Tip: An excellent Taj Mahal view point from within the grounds is from underneath the red doorways of the mosque (picture below). This is located on the left side of the Taj as you approach it from the entrance.

Be mindful that this is India's most popular tourist attraction, with more than 6.5 million people visiting the grounds each year! So, you can expect quite the line-up for a sunrise entry ticket. Below I've linked to a cost-effective tour of the Taj grounds that includes a ticket, so you can skip the line.

Skip the line: Taj Mahal Entrance Ticket & Tour Guide

Taj Mahal timings: 30 minutes before sunrise and 30 minutes after sunset (check updates here)

Entry cost: 1100 rupees for foreigners and 50 rupees for Indians. (+200 rupees to see the main mausoleum)

2. Taj Mahal River View From the Yamuna

The Hindu temple beside the Taj known as Tejo Mahalaya Chhota Mandir is perhaps one of the most well-known alternative Taj Mahal view point location in Agra.

To get here, you just need to walk along the ground's eastern gates towards the river. Once you get to the Yamuna, you'll immediately notice why it's such a great Taj Mahal view point location.

Although there is a tall fence between the river and the palace grounds, you can still get a great view and snap some awesome shots of the incredible marble wonder from the river bank.

• Google Maps Pin: "Taj Yamuna View Point"

3. See the Taj Mahal From the Mehtab Bagh

The Mehtab Bagh, translated as "Moonlight Garden," is a quadrilateral garden complex found directly opposite the Taj Mahal across the Yamuna River.

The Mehtab Bagh is another popular Taj Mahal view point where you can catch dramatic reflections and beautiful garden foregrounds.

To get to the Mehtab Bag, you will need to walk around the riverbank, heading north and crossing the Strachey Bridge. Then, it's another 2-kilometer walk back south along the Yamuna until you reach the Mehtab Bagh. Alternatively, you can take a rickshaw for around 150 rupees per person from anywhere around the Taj.

Timings: 6 AM to 9 PM

Entry cost: 200 rupees for foreigners and 15 rupees for Indian locals

4. Agra Fort Taj Mahal View Point

Agra's second-most visited attraction is the Agra Fort. Although it's largely shadowed by its marble wonder of a sister monument, it's recognized as one of the most impressive forts in India.

The Agra Fort is a monumental fortification that can be more accurately described as a mini-city than a fort. Its impressive palaces, vistas, courtyards, and temples span roughly 94 acres beside the Yamuna River, approximately 2 kilometers from the Taj.

As you'd expect, the Agra Fort is one of the best places to get a Taj Mahal view point. There are several vantage points from within the fort, including decorative windows, balconies, and towers.

Skip the line: Agra Half-Day Tour of Agra Fort and Taj Mahal

Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM

Entry cost: 550 rupees for foreigners and 35 rupees for Indian locals

5. From a Rooftop Cafe or Hotel

One of the best ways to enjoy the magnificence of the Taj Mahal is from one of the many rooftop cafes and hotels in Agra. While all of the surrounding businesses claim to offer the best Taj view point, some are obviously better than others.

At the top of this post, I've dedicated a section to identifying the best rooftop restaurants and hotel terraces to see the Taj Mahal from. My favourite is the Hotel Kamal.

The beauty of it is that there are actually many "hidden gems" that offer great Taj views without needing to fork out the tourist tax rupees. So, make sure to check them out while you're in Agra.

6. Taj Mahal View from Yamuna River

Okay, so this Taj Mahal view point is a little different and slightly controversial. I'm sure many of you reading this have seen the iconic sunrise photo from aboard a rowboat on the Yamuna River, sporting a magnificent Taj Mahal backdrop.

The truth is that Taj Mahal river boats are actually now illegal due to security reasons. However, after doing a bit of research online, I've found that it is still possible, albeit risky.

Since I couldn't find a boat willing to take the risk during my time in Agra, I, unfortunately, can't offer you the details. However, below I've embedded a vlog that does a great job of highlighting the Taj Mahal riverboat experience.

The Ultimate India Travel Resource

Looking for more India travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for the trip of a lifetime.

• Ultimate 1 Month India Itinerary
• Essential India Packing List

7. Secret Sunset Taj Mahal View Point (For Zig Zag Hostel Guests)

The final item on this list of the best Taj Mahal view point locations is my personal favorite. To get here, you'll need to be a guest at the Zig Zag hostel in Agra.

Due to some local family connections, the owners of Zig Zag hostel have access to an old tower monument along the Yamuna River that offers some of the best Taj Mahal views in Agra. This Taj Mahal view point is on private land, so you can't get to the vantage point without their help.

I was told to stay at Zig Zag by two different travelers during my recent trip to India. They both mentioned that it was a must-stay considering how awesome their secret view point is.

Zig Zag runs daily walking tours and sunset trips to the Taj Mahal vantage point and if you're the kind of person that likes to stay at hostels, then I highly recommend staying here.

Book now: ZigZag Hostel Agra

Here's a fun fact: the Taj Mahal was initially supposed to be built in Burhanbpur! However, logistical issues with getting all the necessary white marble made this impossible and hence the construction was moved to Agra, where it sits today.

Roundup: Best Restaurants with Taj Mahal View

After searching for the best rooftop restaurant view of the Taj Mahal in Agra, I discovered these few gems. A few of these were local recommendations, while some I found online and one by just mere chance.

Saniya Palace
The Saniya Palace is well-renowned in Agra to be one of the best places to see the Taj Mahal from. It's slightly classy but meals are not too expensive (around 300 rupees per person).

Mumtaz Cafe Gallery
This first one is a little pricey but offers what I believe to be one of the best Taj Mahal view points from a restaurant rooftop. Although it's a little further from the Taj, the views are interrupted and quite spectacular.

Hotel Sai Palace
I stumbled on this little-known restaurant on the southern side of the Taj Mahal while looking for a budget-friendly restaurant with Taj Mahal views. These guys make great food and offer vegetarian thalis for 50 rupees and lassis for only 30!

What Can Be Seen in Front of the Taj?

Looking to skimp out and not pay for an entry ticket? Unfortunately, due to the large wall in front of the Taj, there really isn't much of a view of the front looking from the outside.

However, as you've seen in this article, there are plenty of places you can get a great vantage point without paying. In saying that, there really isn't a substitute for seeing this amazing marvel from inside the grounds.

Again, the best way to book a ticket and avoid the long line is to book online in advance.

More India Travel Guides and Blogs

I hope you've found this travel guide to the 7 best Taj Mahal view point locations useful. If you've captured some gems of the Taj, share it by dropping a link to your Instagram in the comments section.

Otherwise, if you've managed to stumble upon some more Taj Mahal viewing spots that aren't listed here, make sure to let us know!

• 16 Best Things to do in Rishikesh For the Adventure Traveler
• 2-Day Overnight Camel Safari Jaisalmer - Everything You Need to Know
• 7 Best Jaipur Viewpoints - Where to Go for Jaipur Sunset Views
• Chor Bazaar: Thieves Market in Mumbai - Photojournal & Travel Guide
• Exploring the Jaipur Wall Near Amer Fort, Rajasthan
• How to Get to the Jaipur Stepwell 2020: Panna Meena Ka Kund | Rajasthan
• India Itinerary 1 Month Journey - Best Things to do in India in 2023
• Overnight Sleeper Buses in India - Best Way to Travel India on a Budget
• Top 3 Unmissable Waterfalls in Rishikesh
• Travel Packing List for India: What You Need to Bring On a Trip to India
• Varanasi Ganges River Boat Trip: Sunrise Morning Boat Ride - Complete Guide
• Where to Find the Blue City in Jodhpur - Rajasthan, India

The post 7 Best Taj Mahal View Point Locations in Agra, India 2023 appeared first on We Seek Travel.

The second-largest city in Rajasthan, Jodhpur attracts travelers far and wide, looking to see the incredible palaces, forts, and temples. Situated in the harsh Thar Desert, this historic Marwar Capital features densely populated metropolitan labyrinths encircling a mind-blowing and impenetrable fortress, the Mehrangarh Fort.

Known by many nicknames, from the Sun City to the Fort City, perhaps the most fascinating sobriquet is its designation as the Blue City of India at least for photographers.

In this guide, I’ll detail what I believe to be the best “blue areas” and streets in Jodhpur after spending days, camera in hand, exploring all corners of this incredible place.

Jodhpur: Is it Really All Blue?

It's long been the case that Instagram and other outlets with viral capacity can somewhat distort our expectations. I know that this was true for me in the case of Jodhpur, when I was struggling to find the baby blue-lined streets I had seen and heard so much about.

The truth is Jodhpur definitely has an overall theme of "blue," but it certainly isn't the Chefchaouen of India. The majority of the metropolitan areas of Jodhpur are not painted blue but instead carry the same style of washed-white concrete render architecture as many other Rajasthani cities.

However, don't get your hopes down. The city of Jodhpur does deserve its eloquent nickname– you just need to know where to look to find the Blue City location.

RELATED: Things to do in Jodhpur in One Day – One Day Jodhpur Itinerary

Where to Find the Blue City in Jodhpur India

The majority of blue streets of Jodhpur are within the Old City, on the southwest edge of the fort. Below I'll detail the best spots to go to check them out. If you're not yet in Jodhpur, try to aim to stay somewhere near the Old City or near the Mehrangarh Fort. If you scroll to the bottom of this post, I've also got a section outlining the best accommodation options.

Again, don't expect every inch of every wall to be blue-washed, or you might leave a little disappointed. Personally, I prefer the old, weathered walls with varying shades of blue. A hundred layers of weathered paint and intricate religious paintings tell a story through these walls and are more enjoyable to photograph.

Jodhpur is huge! So, try to stay central if you can.

Jodhpur Old City Map

Below are two Old City maps that are useful for finding the Blue City of Jodhpur.

Travel Hack: Click on the photo of the locations map above and it will load on your Google Maps app. You can save it by clicking the grey star at the top, which will add it to "Your Places" on your Google Maps account. This way, you have a handy digital app on the go with all the scene locations pinned– just refer back to this article (or bookmark it) for the explanations!

The Ultimate India Travel Resource

Looking for more India travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for the trip of a lifetime.

• Ultimate 1 Month India Itinerary
• Essential India Packing List

Navchowkiya - Beautiful Blue Houses & Buildings

Navchowkiya, or "Nav Chowk," sometimes "Navi/Nawi Chowk" is one of the best places in Jodhpur to find blue buildings. Getting here requires a roughly 20-minute walk or 10-minute rickshaw ride from the central points of Ghanta Ghar clocktower and the Sardar Market area.

To avoid getting lost, it's best to just plug in "Navchowkiya" to your Google Maps and let it direct you. The intricate web of sprawling laneways and narrow corridors is easy to get tangled in. For this reason, try to take the "Clock Tower Road" west until you reach Navchowkiya.

Besides, it's best to avoid getting lost until you actually find the Blue City.

Once you arrive, you'll almost immediately start noticing the ever-bluer buildings. Surprisingly, these streets are very quiet, and you'll almost certainly have it all to yourself, bar of course, the curious locals who may or may not be ecstatic about a photo. There isn't a particular street that is bluer than any other, so just wander, explore, and try to find some hidden gems for yourself.

Chandpole - Unexplored Blue City

A second, often talked about area of Jodhpur to find the Blue City is Chandpole. This is located just beside Navchowkiya and has a similar blue theme going on.

To reiterate, it's impossible to tell you the exact street to look for in Chandpole. However, I have pinned the GPS coordinates on the map above that I found to be one of the most beautiful and vibrant blue neighborhoods in the Old City of Jodhpur. This area is tucked almost directly between Chandpole and Navchowkiya and sits below the towering fort.

• GPS Coordinates: 26° 17' 51.852" N 73° 0' 51.084" E

Epic Blue City View From the Mehrangarh Fort

Arguably the best way to get a sense of the scale of Jodhpur's Blue City is to admire it from the Mehrangarh Fort. This offers one of the best blue city views in Jodhpur due to its elevated position.

Furthermore, exploring the fort is also one of the best things to do in Jodhpur, so make sure to check it out.

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Why is Jodhpur Called the Blue City and Why is it Blue?

Jodhpur gets its name as the "Blue City" because Rajasthan has become famous for its vibrant, color-washed cities. For example, Jaipur is known as the Pink City, Udaipur, The White City, and Jaisalmer, the Golden City.

But, why is Jodhpur blue? After doing some research and speaking to some locals, I discovered that nobody has a clear answer. However, there are some ideas as to why Jodhpur is blue.

The first reason is that Jodhpur was and has a large population. of Brahmin castes who devout their loyalty to Lord Shiva. Shiva's holy color, and the color of the Brahmins is blue. Therefore, much of the old city was painted blue.

Other ideas include the fact that blue walls are believed to deter mosquitos. This was interesting because both the inside and outside of the buildings seem to be painted blue. Blue is also a soothing color that reflects heat well. Which, also makes sense because the summer heat of the Sun City is very extreme.

Where to Stay in The Blue City of India: Jodhpur

• Where I stayed: Bob's Hostel. This place was a no-brainer for me. Located near the central clocktower, includes a rooftop restaurant with views of the fort, and only $3 a night!
• Best hostel for the vibe: Moustache Jodhpur. Moustache is always a safe bet for a quality budget hostel with a great vibe in India. It's one of the highest-ranked hostel on Hostelworld and is located near. the center of Jodhpur.
• Best fort view hotel: The Arch Boutique. This is easily one of the best Hotels in Jodhpur. The rooms have a very rustic vibe and include a balcony with your very own private view of the fort!

More on Booking.com

More Jodhpur Blue City Photography

With the guide out of the way, here are some of my personal favorite shots that I captured when exploring the Blue City Jodhpur. Unfortunately, I snapped my SD card from the drone. I was devastated but at least I had some low-quality backups synced to my phone.

More: Must-Visit Places in Rajasthan

I hope that this quick guide to finding photography opportunities in the Blue City in Jodhpur was useful. If you find some more hidden "blue streets," make sure to let other travelers and keen photographers know by leaving a comment underneath.

For now, why not check out some of my other blogs and guides for must-see and must-visit destinations in Rajasthan, India? I guarantee you'll find something worth adding to your Indian travel itinerary.

• 2-Day Camel Safari In Jaisalmer - Everything You Need to Know
• Bahubali Hills Udaipur - Epic Lake Viewpoint
• Exploring the Jaipur Wall Near Amer Fort, Rajasthan
• Gadisar Lake Jaisalmer - Rajasthan Travel Guide
• How to Get to the Jaipur Stepwell in 2023: Panna Meena Ka Kund - Rajasthan
• Jaisalmer Fort in Rajasthan: Travel Guide and Photos From the Sonar Quila
• Jodhpur Stepwell, Toorji Ka Jhalra (Toorji's Step Well) in Jodhpur, Rajasthan
• Overnight Sleeper Buses in India - Best Way to Travel India on a Budget
• Top 3 Unmissable Waterfalls in Rishikesh

The post Where to Find the Blue City in Jodhpur – Rajasthan, India 2023 appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Are you wondering what to pack for India? Many first-time visitors are confused about what to bring to such a vast country– and rightly so. Planning a trip to India isn’t exactly your typical vacation. There’s nowhere else on earth where you’ll experience such diversity, contradictions, love, and utter astonishment in the same place, and it can all get a little overwhelming.

For this reason, I’ve formed this India packing list to help you be a little more prepared and confident. This is based on my personal experience of traveling in India, as well as a fair bit of research that I wish I had known before I went.

At the bottom of this post, you’ll also find a section dedicated to what not to bring, information on vaccines, and what kind of clothes you should wear. For photographers, you can also skip down to the camera section to see what camera gear I use and recommend for an India packing list.

The Complete Packing List for India

Let's dive straight into the ultimate packing list for India! My goal isn't to bore you with the obvious things you should bring like underwear or socks. Instead, I want to give you some tips on specific items worth packing since they are actually useful (but often missed).

However, if you'd prefer a quick packing checklist, there's also a checklist at the end of this list that covers all of the essentials.

1. Grayl GEOPRESS Purifier

The first item on this packing list for India is the trusty GEOPRESS. This Grayl water purifier was a life changer for me. Before the GEOPRESS, I relied on prepackaged bottled water.

It was always clear to me that buying plastic bottle after plastic bottle was not sustainable, and even if I recycled the bottles or disposed of them properly, it wasn't a 100% sustainable solution. I guess I used to just shrug it off as a necessary evil of travel.

I know what you're thinking, are you really going to filter tap water in India? Unlike most water bottle filters for travel, the GEOPRESS purifier filters out all global waterborne pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, protozoan cysts, as well as chemicals, pesticides, heavy metals, and even microplastics.

Of course, there are times when even I was a bit wary of using the Grayl and still resorted to buying bottled water. However, having a GEOPRESS with you is going to save you money on scale, and you will be helping to minimize India's major plastic pollution crisis too by purifying tap water.

2. Probiotics + Charcoal Tablets + Travelan

Another item on this packing list for India is a trio I've found dedicated to helping you avoid getting sick. This includes probiotics, preventative activated charcoal tablets, and Travelan. It's my go-to defense against Delhi Belly, Bali Belly, Peru Poos, or the Rangoon Runs.

Whatever you call it, travelers diarrhea is going to put a halt on your adventures faster than you can scream "where's the squatter?!"

Amazon: Probiotics | Travelan | Charcoal Tablets

I formulated this gut defense system after copping some severe bacterial infections and parasites from eating some questionable roadside palak paneer a while back. Now that I'm older and wiser: here's how this three-pronged approach works:

1. A good probiotic is going to help your biome build a better defense against the inevitable bacterial invasion.
2. Activated charcoal tablets are best used if you expect that you've eaten something that might make you sick. It works by trapping toxins and chemicals in the gut so they don't get absorbed by your body.
3. Finally, Travelan is a miracle supplement that I often take before I try some delicious street food. It's essentially just bovine colostrum powder, which works by formulating a wall of antibodies that bind the E.coli bacteria and their toxins. This prevents their attachment to your gastrointestinal tract.

Tip: Add these items to your packing list for India before you leave! I had a hard time finding anything but probiotics in India.

3. Passport Wallet / Travel Wallet

No matter where I go in the world, I always bring a passport wallet. I used to carry a big bulky one and quickly found that it was just too annoying to stow in my bag.

Now, I've switched to a minimal passport wallet that is still big enough to organize my passports, spare cash and currency, sim cards, credit cards, boarding passes, and printouts. If you're a minimalist traveler or even one that tends to carry a bit too much gear (like me), then consider adding this compact and practical passport wallet to your India travel packing list.

Amazon: Pacsafe Compact RFID Passsport Travel Wallet

4. A Good Travel Backpack

This is an adventure backpacking blog so I'll admit that I'm just a little biased when it comes to the backpack vs suitcase debate. However, a travel backpack is just going to be so much easier when traveling in India, unless you're on an already organized tour or have somebody to carry your bags for you.

You probably already know that Indian streets are a little on the dirty side. You don't want to run your luggage wheels through a big pile of cow dung en route to your hotel. Neither do you want to drag it through crowded alleyways and up uneven staircases? Furthermore, for adventures like an overnight Rajasthani camel safari or hikes in the Rishikesh mountains, a backpack simply makes more sense.

After living out of my trusty 55L Deuter hiking backpack for years, I finally upgraded to a more "livable" backpack that I can still bring on long-distance hikes if I need to.

Enter the Osprey Farpoint Trek.

This is easily the most comfortable and easy to pack bag that I've ever come across. If you're wondering about what backpack to back for India, do consider it.

5. Day Bag

When forming your packing list for India, make sure to remember to pack a good day bag. You'll want one that's not too big, light to pack down, but still big enough to fit all of your essentials like a camera, sunglasses, wallets, and water bottles.

Since I usually lug around a fair bit of camera gear, I use my F-Stop Tilopa as a day bag, which is by far the best adventure camera bag ever to hit the market.

However, if you're looking for a more compact day bag to bring to India, then I recommend this budget one from Amazon Basics. It's big enough to fit pretty much everything you need on a quick day outing including a side water bottle holder! Best of all, it folds down to the size of a regular wallet to stow. in your bag when you don't need it.

Amazon: Amazon Basics Ultralight Packable Day Bag

6. Travel Insurance

India is one destination where you'll want to have travel insurance. However, if you're planning a trip to India, then it's most likely not going to be your first rodeo. So, I won't lecture you on how important it is or why you need it.

Instead, I'll explain why I recommend using World Nomads Travel Insurance. I learned the hard way the value of a quality insurer when my entire backpack got stolen in Barcelona in 2015. Since, I've used these guys for my global adventure travel insurance needs because they cover me for the things I actually want, like hospital cover, accidents, theft, and travel delays.

Most importantly, since World Nomads value their returning customers, if you need to claim, they don't try to dodge you like most insurers.

If you're a digital nomad, you should also consider SafetyWing insurance. I've written a comprehensive comparison guide between the two which might help you make up your mind.

Use the widget below to get a quick, personalize quote from World Nomads to add to your list of things to bring to India!

7. Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a traveler's essential these days! Using individual, lightweight, zip-up cubes allows me to organize all of my clothes within my bag easily. The biggest perk of using packing cubes is that I never have to rummage through a backpack trying to find a specific t-shirt or pair of pants tangled up in a charger cable ever again.

Packing cubes also allow you to visually and practically organize all of your India packing list essentials so you know if you've forgotten something.

Amazon: Packing Cubes Travel Organizer

Related: 15 Essential Items for Digital Nomads

8. Travel First Aid Kit

Travel insurance is great, but it's not going to save you in the moment if you ever end up in trouble. I was pretty surprised to find out that most people don't include a small first aid kit in their packing list for India or other parts of Asia.

You won't need to bring a bulky field kit, just your regular, compact travel kit is fine. Just make sure it includes bandages, band-aids (plasters), sterile gauze pads, and disinfectant wipes. For convenience, I also stuff things I need but don't always want to have out in there. This includes a travel sewing kit (for quick repairs), as well as my nail clippers and medication like antibiotics and diarrhea prevention tablets.

Amazon: Travel First Aid Kit

I prefer to pack the kits with a soft, canvas bag rather than the hard plastic boxes that tend to break in backpacks.

Related:

Digital Nomad Packing List: What I Bring on the Road & Why

9. Travel Toilet Paper

Believe it or not toilet paper is still not commonplace in India. However, you will find it in most hostels and hotels. Where you won't find toilet paper is at public toilets, roadside stops, or most restaurants.

For this reason, I recommend bringing some compact, travel toilet paper for the inevitable emergency.

Amazon: Compact Travel Toilet Paper

10. A Good Power Bank

Modern travel makes it easy to book and organize an entire trip on the fly from the palm of your hand. But, what happens when you rock up to the bus terminal and your phone goes flat? Your accommodation details, bus ticket, banking app and everything else you need to function as a traveler are all of a sudden, gone.

That's why I highly recommend including a good, reliable power bank in your packing list for India. I use a RavPower one, which is the only power bank that I've been able to find that includes USB C PD technology capable of charging my laptop and phone at the same time.

If you bring a lot of camera gear and a laptop, then a good power bank is essential when wondering what to pack for India!

Buy it: RavPower Power Bank

11. Bug Spray or Deet Cream

Mosquitos are always a pest, but they're even more so in places that have cases of malaria. I've touched on bringing malaria medication to India here. But, the gist is unless you're traveling to areas of high infection rates in the monsoon season, then it's better just to use deet spray or cream for prevention.

You can find bug spray and mosquito cream throughout most of India, but if you'd prefer to be prepared, you'll probably save money by just purchasing it on Amazon in advance.

I prefer the creams to sprays because it's more compact, won't explode in your bag during transit, and it can be diluted with a bit of water.

Tip: Put the deet cream inside a ziplock bag so it doesn't get all through your bag if you squash it.

Amazon: Bug Cream

RISHIKESH: Top 3 Unmissable Waterfalls in Rishikesh

11. Kindle eReader

India is a vast landmass, and if you're going to travel a lot within this beautiful country, you can expect to spend some time on buses or trains.

Instead of carrying a dozen books around, I just have a single Kindle Paperwhite, which can store thousands of books. It's lighter than a regular paperback book, waterproof, and has a backlight. Besides camera gear, my Kindle is one of my favorite pieces of tech and is essential on a packing list for India.

Books to read in India:

• My favorite: Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts
• Tell a Thousand Lies - Rasana Atreya
• Best Travel Guide: Lonely Planet: India
• A Passage to India by E. M. Forster
• For history fans: The Last Mughal by William Dalrymple
• Life of Pi by Yann Martel

Amazon: Kindle Paperwhite

12. Quick-Dry Towel

This item on my Ultimate India Packing List isn't exactly an India-specific necessity, but more of a backpacking staple item. A quick-dry, compact travel towel is the perfect solution for carrying a towel on the road. They fold up really small, are very lightweight and dry in just a few minutes.

If you're a budget backpacker in India, then having a quick-dry towel will mean that you won't have to pay to borrow a towel at the hostel too.

Amazon: Travel Towel

13. Combination Lock or Retractable-Locking System

Everyone should carry a basic key or combination padlock to secure their backpacks. It deters potential thieves and allows you to leave your bag with relative confidence.

However, something that I always get asked about in hostels is my bag lock. It's essentially just a lightweight, combination carabiner that was intended to be used to secure a helmet to a motorbike and a very lightweight, flexible 5mm looped bike cable.

This allows me to completely secure my backpack when I leave the hostel, or when I store it in after-hours luggage lockers. Since this system is so lightweight, I just connect it to the outside of my backpack when I'm not using it.

The beauty of this system is that not only is your bag zipper locked, but a potential thief can't even take your whole backpack if he/she wanted. I also regularly use the helmetlok carabiner when I rent motorbikes and scooters to lock the helmet.

If you're looking for a more compact solution, then I used to swear by this smaller retractable combination lock. I upgraded because I carry around a fair bit of camera gear and want the most protection possible.

Amazon: Helmetlok Carabiner | Kryptonite Bike Cable Lock

14. Ear Plugs

For some reason, Indians are immune to noise. Be it the perpetual orchestra of honking cars or the lively, passionate conversations on an overnight bus at 2 AM; nothing can shock your system like the noise of India. While it's part of the experience that I wouldn't trade it for anything, a cheap pair of earplugs can be a lifesaver at times when you really need that beauty sleep.

Since I traveled around India on overnight sleeper buses, these came in handy more times than I can count on one hand. You can pick them up at any pharmacy or drug store in your home country or once you arrive in India. But, since you've probably already got a growing Amazon cart, why not chuck a pair of earplugs in too? You can get a pack of 50 for just a few dollars.

Amazon: Travel Earplugs

15. US Dollars

This item you should add to your list of things to pack for India might come as a surprise. Although it's not essential, United States currency can be very useful. In fact, when I crossed the land border between India and Nepal, I could only pay the Visa fee in US dollars and it cost me a stupid amount to exchange in India.

I've heard similar cases where having US currency can be helpful. So, if you live in the States, make sure to pack some for India.

Tip: Make sure the notes are IMPECCABLE, I had to exchange rupees to India at inflated prices TWICE because there was a tiny fold in my $50 note.

16. International Travel Power Adapter

For India, there are three plug types, depending on how old the building is and what region you are in. To make sure you can charge your phone and any camera gear wherever you are, you're going to want to add a reliable worldwide adapter to your India packing list.

This is something that I consider essential, no matter what country I visit!. The one I'm linking to below will have you covered wherever you go in India and pretty much anywhere else, for that matter. The best part is that it has both USB A and USB C ports, meaning you can charge multiple devices on one adapter.

Amazon: International Travel Adapter

More Essentials: The Packing List for India Checklist

What Not to Bring to India

Now that you know exactly what you need to add to your packing list for India, let's talk about what you DON'T need to bring.

Pack for the season
Weather in India differs significantly from the wild and wet monsoon to the scalding summer months. Make sure to plan your trip and pack your India travel clothes accordingly.

Don't bring too many clothes
I highly doubt that India is going to be your first travel experience, so I won't lecture you on how to pack light.

You don't need bulky towels
Again, buy a lightweight, packable travel towel instead. Big, bulky towels can take up the same weight as a pair of jeans and a sweater combined.

Avoid fancy shoes
The streets of India always make your shoes turn a grimy, grey colour. This is something that you just can't avoid. Instead, bring a pair of Tevas or a comfortable pair of running shoes.

Don't get a "travel card" or bring too much cash
The days of "travel debit cards" and "traveler's cheques" have gone to the wayside. Why pay more for something more difficult? These days, you should always just use a regular debit card or credit card that doesn't charge exchange rate fees or overseas transaction fees.

Update: Every traveler should now be using a Wise (formerly TransferWise) for all transactions overseas. This is the cheapest and most convenient way to spend money internationally.

VARANASI: Varanasi Ganges River Boat Trip - Complete Guide

What About Clothes and Things to Wear in India?

The clothes that you include in your packing list for India will depend on the season and the region you will be visiting. However, just remember that India is a more conservative country than many in the west, and plenty of exposed skin is usually not appropriate.

Essential Clothing Items:

• Lightweight Rain Jacket
• Comfortable walking/jogging shoes
• Light and breathable long-sleeve shirts or tops when visiting holy sites in the heat
• Light, breathable long pants
• 2-3 pairs of socks
• Flip flops
• Hat

Clothing Packing Advice for Women

Generally speaking, men's clothing customs are much more lenient than women's. This is especially true in places like Rajasthan. The advice that my partner Haylea gives is that it's much better to respect local customs and cover up. It's probably not a good idea to think that you're liberating Indian women by dressing what is considered to be "skimpy" in a culture vastly different from your own.

However, that also doesn't mean that foreign women are expected to wear a traditional full Sari. While big, westernized cities like Delhi and Mumbai are much more progressive on female clothing expectations, women still don't tend to wear overly tight or revealing clothing.

It's best to just wear, long, comfortable clothing that isn't too tight. Long, loose skirts and long-sleeved tops or shirts are Haylea's go-to in India. She also recommends getting a big, lightweight scarf or wrap to wear on top of your tops.

Another thing that Haylea highly recommends for women to add to their packing list for India is female sanitary products. She struggled to find regular products, especially in more remote regions.

Clothing Packing Advice for Men

Many parts of India are very patriarchally-dominant societies. As you'd expect, men tend to get an easier ride when it comes to dress codes.

However, it's still recommended to dress modestly. You can wear t-shirts but shorts can be frowned upon in certain places. When visiting temples, you always want to cover up your arms and legs.

PUSHKAR: 4 Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Pushkar

The Camera Gear I Pack for India

Living on the road means that I don't have the comforts of a home base to store and swap camera equipment and gear depending on the destination or project. Due to this, I've been forced to create a camera kit that I can carry everywhere, and that allows me to create content no matter where I am.

Read more: Camera Gear for Travel

Otherwise, here is my recommended camera equipment to include in your packing list for India. I've based this gear selection process on what I believe to be essential for a professional kit and I've included what I bring, and a "budget" alternative.

If you're not a photography enthusiast, don't want to deal with interchangeable lense and just want a camera to pack for India that is compact but will get you some nice shots, then I recommend getting a Panasonic Lumix TZ200 or a GoPro Hero 8.

A Good Camera to Pack For India

Best Travel Camera: Sony A6500

For hobby photographers that want high-quality images without the bulk, then the Sony A6500 is probably the best travel-friendly camera on the market. Paired with a couple of good lenses, and you're good to go in any situation.

My Everyday: Canon 5D Mark IV

The Canon 5-series range has been the go-to camera for professional journalists and photographers for a long time - and for a good reason. The 5D Mark IV is a workhorse that just gets the job done every time. It's a little heavy and on the expensive side but if the aim of the game is photography, you won't be disappointed.

Wide Angle Lense

Sony E 10-18MM F4 OSS

One of the best wide-angle lenses for Sony crop-sensor cameras (A6500) is the Sony 10-18mm F4 OSS. Having a good wide-angle lens allows you to get a whole landscape or building in the frame.

Canon 17-40MM F4L

The Canon 17-40MM is a super underrated wide-angle lens for full-frame cameras that provides quality on-par with $2000 glass for less than a quarter of the price. When you don't really need the extra stops of light, this wide-angle for full-frame Canon lenses is perfect.

AHMEDABAD: Exploring Dada Harir Stepwell in Ahmedabad – India

Walk Around Lens

Sony 16-55mm F2.8

The Sony 16-55mm f2.8 has the title for the best walk around travel lens for the Sony A6500. If you want one lens that can to it all, from portraits to landscapes then make sure to add this to your camera packing list for India.

Canon EF 24-70MM F2.8L II

The Canon 24-70MM F2.8L II is usually the lens glued to my camera. It's arguable Canon's best variable zoom lens and I use it for landscapes, portraits, buildings, and pretty much anything you can point a camera at.

Drones in India

India is one of the most difficult places to deal with drones that I've ever visited. To kick things off, I had to leave check-in security just before boarding and walk to another section of the airport just to put my drone inside my checked luggage. India is the only place this has ever happened.

Generally speaking, drones aren't allowed to be flown unless they are registered with a UIN. For commercial purposes, you also need to get a special permit. Find out more here.

While it was a bit of a nuisance, I'm glad I did bring my Mavic Pro to India and I will for future trips too. If you do, educate yourself on the laws and make sure you follow them to avoid having it confiscated and having to pay large fines.

JODHPUR: The Blue City of Jodhpur, Rajasthan

More Useful Information About Packing & Travel in India

And that sums up my Ultimate Packing List for India. Below I've included a final section dedicated to answering some commonly asked questions and to help get prepared for the adventure of a lifetime!

1. How to Avoid Delhi Belly

The only true way to avoid Delhi Belly in India is to not eat or drink anything. Obviously, that's not realistic. So, the only thing you can really do is try do do things that minimize your exposure to harmful bacteria or parasites. Taking preventative supplements like the ones I mentioned above is a good step. I love street food and I firmly believe it's part of the India travel experience, so I'm not going to tell you to avoid it.

Just be diligent in your hygiene and make informed decisions as to what you eat and drink. Avoid getting water from showers or taps in your eyes or in your mouth too.

2. Is it Safe to Travel in India?

When I was first researching travel guides and India packing lists for my first trip, all I saw were warnings and a fair bit of over-the-top fear mongering. Is being careful warranted when traveling to India? Of course it is - that's true anywhere you travel in the world. The truth is that India is a safe country to travel to, as long as you use common sense and trust your instincts.

3. What Should I Wait to Buy In India?

Some things you shouldn't bring to India because it's readily available and cheap to buy once you arrive. This includes medication, light cotton clothing, toiletries, and most other day-to-day items. India also has some of the world's best hand-made jewelry, so if you plan on picking up a souvenir or gift, you're in luck.

4. What Shouldn't I Wait to Buy in India?

It's fascinating that India's economy seems to still run primarily through small markets, merchants, and street vendors. In many parts of India outside of major shopping districts in Mumbai and Delhi, you won't find large supermarkets or franchise department stores.

Things you should add to your India packing list before you leave include electronics (they're cheaper on Amazon), sunscreen without whitening agents, feminine hygiene products, makeup, sunglasses, and shoes.

4. Should I Bring Valuables?

Many people suggest that you don't add valuables to your India packing list. However, I'm going to say that it's up to personal preference. If you work on the road or you love to take photos, then not bringing a camera or laptop because you're scared of losing them is just counter-intuitive.

Instead, make sure you are covered by good travel insurance. Things like fancy jewelry, shoes, or clothes, on the other hand, might not be worth bringing, since there's a good chance they'll get ruined.

5. Vaccines and Immunisations for Travel in India

Disclaimer: I'm not a doctor. You need to consult one for proper medical advice.

The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccines and immunizations when traveling in India.

• Hepatitis A + B
• Typhoid
• Cholera
• Yellow Fever
• Japanese Encephalitis
• Rabies (probably not necessary unless you're working with animals)
• Meningitis
• Polio
• Measles
• Mumps and Rubella
• Tdap
• Chickenpox
• Shingles
• Pneumonia + Influenza
• Covid-19

7. Do I Need to Bring Malaria Medication?

While there are cases of Malaria in India, don't expect to catch it in major cities outside of the monsoon seasons. Most likely, you won't be visiting in the monsoon either. However, if you are, you should consider consulting a doctor and adding some preventative malaria medication to your India packing list. Also, make sure to research the effectiveness and the side effects before you make your choice.

Many malaria medications cause terrible irritation to the skin and sensitivity to UV light. My tip for you is if you do decide that you need malaria medication, make sure to pack some good sunscreen before you leave.

More: Free India Travel Guides and Blog Posts

That concludes my Ultimate Packing List for India. In hindsight, it ended up being a little longer than I anticipated. However, I wanted to provide all of the information I had on packing for a trip to India to make the most comprehensive packing list guide I could.

If you enjoyed the guide, have any questions, or any tips/suggestions, please let me and other travelers know by leaving a comment.

Otherwise, make sure to check out some of my other travel guides and blogs to make the most of your India travels! Enjoy!

• 2-Day Camel Safari In Jaisalmer - Everything You Need to Know
• 20 Best Things to do in Rishikesh, India - Ultimate 2023 Travel Guide
• Bahubali Hills Udaipur - Epic Lake Viewpoint
• Digital Nomad Packing List - 15 Practical Things Everyone Needs in 2023
• Exploring the Jaipur Wall Near Amer Fort, Rajasthan
• Finding the Best Water Filter Bottle For Travel, Hiking, & Backpacking
• How to Get to the Jaipur Stepwell 2020: Panna Meena Ka Kund | Rajasthan
• Overnight Sleeper Buses in India - Best Way to Travel India on a Budget
• Savitri Temple Pushkar - Best Viewpoint In Pushkar
• Training at HMI Darjeeling - (Himalayan Mountaineering Institute in India)
• Varanasi Ganges River Boat Trip: Sunrise Morning Boat Ride - Complete Guide
• Where to Find the Blue City in Jodhpur - Rajasthan, India

The post Travel Packing List for India: What You Need to Bring On a Trip to India appeared first on We Seek Travel.

India is one of my personal favorite travel destinations. A journey through India embodies the raw, authentic, and beautifully contradictory elements of travel that got me hooked all those years back.

In this Ultimate India Itinerary 1 Month Journey I’ll detail a less-popular India travel route that I believe is one of the best ways that you can see the country in one month. Of course, India is huge! It would be impossible to see all of its beauty even in one lifetime, let alone trying to cram it into a 1 month itinerary! For this reason, I’ve also included a section dedicated to other areas of India that you might want to consider when forming your own India travel route.

At the bottom of this post, you’ll also find a comprehensive travel guide to India that should answer all of your questions about travel in India. My goal is to make this travel guide as detailed as possible to help you organize your India travel planning ideas and inspiration.

Be warned; this India travel itinerary is fast-paced! It's not designed to be a luxury vacation nor an idyllic getaway. I want you to leave exhausted, yet renewed, and with a lasting, refined sense of the word travel. India, for all its flaws, harbors a thousand wonders which of a few, I'm sure, will be safely embedded in your soul. Surrender to the experience and embrace the moment so that when you look back all those years later, a new part of you comes clawing back at each living memory, forever in your heart.

Things You Should Know About This This 1 Month India Itinerary

Before you start reading this India itinerary guide, I think it's important to know that I planned this travel route to be followed by taking overnight sleeper buses.

Of course, it can also be followed by taking trains or even a car in some cases. However, I believe that the best way to travel in India is to use the extensive network of sleeper buses. If you're on the fence about how to travel in India, make sure to check out this guide to traveling in India on overnight sleeper buses.

I also acknowledge that most people won't follow this India travel itinerary to the tee. I'd prefer if travelers took a few spontaneous detours or adapted this itinerary to suit your style of travel. However, I have written this India travel guide and route as if it would be followed step-by-step in order to provide as much value to you as I can.

Throughout the itinerary, I'll link to the best-recommended tours and unmissable experiences for each destination. I'll also link to some of my favorite hostels and hotels, and the best-rated options. You'll also find links to other guides and posts that I've written. These go into much more detail and include a bunch more photos to inspire your travels.

Also, for those still in the planning stages of your India trip, make sure to check out my comprehensive India packing list before you go as well.

Alright, with that out of the way, let's get right into my Ultimate India Itinerary 1 Month Journey!

Highlights - Best Things to See & Do in India

Want a quick rundown for places you'll visit and things to see in India? Here it is.

• This India travel itinerary begins in the country's most populous city; Mumbai.
• Following the coast of the Arabian Sea, travelers will pass the little-explored Ahmedabad, before journeying deep into the Thar Desert of Rajasthan to Jaisalmer.
• From here, this ultimate 1 month India itinerary route encompasses the best of any Rajasthan travel plan, including the ancient Mughal empire cities of Jodhpur, Udaipur, Pushkar/Ajmer, and Jaipur.
• Next, it covers the famous "Golden Triangle" tourist route of Agra and Delhi.
• The last leg of this India trip sees a short break in the yoga and adventure capital; Rishikesh before making the final pilgrimage to India's holiest and most ancient city; Varanasi.

This itinerary includes some of the best things to do in India including:

• Experience the incredible food and fast-paced beat of Mumbai; The Capital of Bollywood
• Exploring incredible Indian stepwells in Ahmedabad
• Explore the Jaisalmer fort and journey into the desert on the back of a camel for 2 days
• Find the Blue City of Jodhpur and explore the Mehrangarh Fort
• Visit the wedding capital of India in the White City of Udaipur
• Embrace the vibrant market life in the Pushkar oasis
• Visit the incredible fort and iconic stepwell, climb the wall, and traverse the bustling street markets of Jaipur
• See the Taj Mahal in Agra
• Witness India's most densely populated city; Delhi
• Unwind in India's yoga capital, explore jungle waterfalls in the foothills of the Himalayan mountains in Rishikesh
• Reflect on your journey in India's holiest city, witness the ghats, and take a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River.

India Itinerary Map

Below is a rough map outlining the proposed route for my Ultimate India Itinerary 1 Month Journey.

The Ultimate India Itinerary: Day By Day Travel Guide

Here's the day-by-day breakdown of this 1 month India itinerary. You probably don't need me to mention that you can carve your own route through India. The day-by-day breakdowns are best served as a general guide and to provide some inspiration for adventures and experiences as you go.

Day 1-3: Mumbai

This India travel route begins in the Bollywood capital of India; Mumbai. I chose Mumbai as the starting point for this journey because often, the cheapest flights land here, at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.

Tip 1: Install Uber before landing at the airport. There is a dedicated "Uber" pickup point just outside of arrivals where you can hail a driver to take you to your accommodation.

Tip 2: Make sure to use either Skyscanner to compare the cheapest flights to Mumbai from anywhere in the world. Use the whole month search to get a calendar view of the cheapest dates to fly.

Once you arrive, stash your bags and get exploring. There's so much to see and do in Mumbai! Below are some highlights you should add to your own India itinerary.

See The Gateway of India

The Gateway of India is the most popular tourist attraction in Mumbai. The erection of the monument began in 1911 to commemorate the landing of King Goerge V and Queen Mary. It's located on the waterfront at the Apollo Bunder area, not far from Colaba.

It's a popular spot to visit, with many travelers coming to see the unofficial "Taj Mahal of Mumbai".

Just across the street, you'll also get to see the "Taj Mahal Palace Hotel", which is a historic building with a world-shaking story as portrayed in the blockbuster movie Hotel Mumbai.

Explore Colaba

Colaba is the tourist district of Mumbai and home to some of the city's best attractions. The best things to do in this amazing Indian district include visiting the Shivaji Museum, Jehangir Art Gallery, and the famous Leopold Cafe from the book Shantaram.

You can get lost in the beating heart of Colaba's streets, falling in love with its unique charm and scenic sites.

Eat World-Renowned Cuisine & Incredible Street Food

To be completely honest with you, after tasting the street food and cuisine on offer in Mumba's Dhabas, nothing in India really compared.

In other words, It's safe to say that Mumbai has the best food in India. Below are some spots that you must eat at. I guarantee you'll remember it for the rest of your life!

• Pancham Puriwala (get the deluxe Thali, we had it like 2 times)
• Dara Singh Thali at Mini Punjab
• Cannon Pav Bhaji (near the CST station gate 3.
• Leopold Cafe (for fans of Shantaram)

Check Out the Thieves Market "Chor Bazaar"

After filling up on thalis, puri, pav bhaji, and all the chai in the world, take a wonder down the famous Thieves Market.

This is a small market district of Mumbai consisting of just a few narrow lanes where you can find pretty much anything in the world - and it all comes from dubious backgrounds! This is one of the most interesting markets in the city and you should definitely add it to your list of things to do in India if you're stopping by Mumbai.

Read: Chor Bazaar: Market of Thieves in Mumbai

Transport: Overnight Sleeper Bus or Train to Ahmedabad

After 3 days of exploring Mumbai, it's time to move on to the next destination on this India itinerary 1 month journey. You can book comfortable sleeper buses using Bookaway or Redbus.in.

The beauty of traveling in India by sleeper bus is that you don't need to waste any precious days exploring since much of your transit time will happen overnight as you sleep. I mentioned my guide overnight sleeper buses in India above but if you skimmed past it, here it is again.

The bus journey from Mumbai to Ahmedabad takes roughly 9-10 hours. So, try to book a bus departing later in the evening. Also, take note of where the bus terminal is located on your ticket and plan an uber accordingly, keeping in mind the nightmarish Mumbai traffic.

If you'd prefer a train journey, you can book train tickets onling using Indian Rail. However, it can be a little difficult to book without an Indian phone number or ID. Furthermore, popular train journeys are often booked out weeks in advance, so plan accordingly.

Duration: 9-10 hours

Book the bus: Mumbai to Ahmedabad

Day 4: Stop-Over: Ahmedabad

I originally added Ahmedabad to my India itinerary as a quick stop-over between Mumbai and Rajasthan to break up the long journey. However, after visiting, I was surprised as to just how many epic things there are to do and see here.

Visit the Ahmedabad Stepwells

The most fascinating and beautiful sites in Ahmedabad are the incredible stepwells. Stepwells or baoris as they are known in India, are essentially sets of intricate steps that descend deep into the ground to access and store water.

Stepwells are a common architectural attraction throughout India and they once served as meeting places and a central location for people to gather and share stories. The Indian boaris of today remain as cultural icons that reflect Indias unique and diverse history.

The best stepwells to visit in Ahmedabad worthy of a spot on your India travel itinerary is the Adalaj Stepwell and the Dada Harir Stepwell.

Stop By the Sabarmati Ashram - Mahatma Gandhi's Home

Another great place to visit in Ahmedabad is the Sabarmati Ashram, which was established by Mahatma Gandhi by the Sabarmati River in 1917. Here, you'll get to explore the ashram, the Gandhi museum, and the former house of Gandhi himself!

Book the tour: Half Day Tour Including Visit at Gandhi's House

Transport: Day Bus or Train to Jaisalmer

This is one of the only times in the India travel itinerary where I'd recommend getting a day-bus instead of an overnight sleeper. The reason is that there's just not enough time to get a sleeper bus on the same day as you arrive.

Alternatively though, you could stay an extra day in Ahmedabad and depart on an overnight train or bus the following day. Just know that you'll need to make up for the day if you want to stick to a 30-day visa or 1 month itinerary in India.

Duration: 10 hours

Book your bus: Ahmedabad to Jaisalmer

Day 5-8: Jaisalmer

After a long bus or train ride, travelers will arrive in the 900-year-old Jaisalmer: The Golden City, located deep in the Thar desert near the border of Pakistan.

When you arrive in Jaisalmer, you'll immediately realize the dramatic change of pace from the mayhem of Ahmedabad to the quaint, desert lifestyles of the Rajasthanis.

If you're following this India itinerary for 1 month and make it to Jaisalmer, then you're in for a treat. This was one of our favorite destinations in India, and there's plenty of epic things to see and do.

Explore the Jaisalmer Fort

If you've taken an early morning transport option as recommended in the India travel itinerary above, then you'll arrive during the afternoon. No matter where you are in Jaisalmer, the towering honey-gold fort dominates the desert landscape, and I bet you can't wait to explore it.

Read: Jaisalmer Fort in Rajasthan: Travel Guide and Photos From the Sonar Quila

So, drop your bags at your accommodation and get exploring! The Fort is known to be one of the last remaining "living forts", where approximately one-quarter of the living population still reside within its walls. In my opinion, exploring this fort was one of my favorite things to do in India, especially in Rajasthan!

Upon entering the sandstone gates, it's like stepping back in time, or perhaps into a set of Game of Thrones. Inside you'll find buzzing markets, intricate Jain temples, palaces, and passionate street performers. I recommend following the Lonely Planet's guide to finding the best attractions within the fort or, just wandering around yourself.

At numerous sections of the citadel are sandstone steps leading up to the fort's wall. I highly recommend heading up to the many wall viewpoints to watch the desert sun slip behind the Thar horizon.

Tip: to make the most of your experience in Jaisalmer, I highly recommend staying in a hotel or hostel within the fort walls. This is remarkably inexpensive and most of the better options include a rooftop terrace. Read the accommodation section below for my recommendations on where to stay.

Camel Safari (1-2 Days) - Top Experience in India!

This next attraction is something that I consider a must-do in India. If you're just reading this India itinerary 1 month blog post for travel inspiration, then make sure to add a camel safari to your list!

A camel safari is a Thar Desert experience where you will ride camels with other travelers led by a Real Desert Man for 1, 2, or 3 days.

For overnight trips, you will spend the night camping under the expansive desert stars. This is a great way to experience the authentic Rajasthani culture as the guides all come from small desert communities of camel herders. If you book the tour I recommend, you'll also be welcomed to the remote villages where you can get a sense of what real desert life is like.

Tip: Pack pens, paper, and stationery to give as gifts to the children living in the remote desert communities.

A camel safari in Jaisalmer is by far the most popular attraction and therefore you could expect there to be loads of good operators, and plenty that aren't so great too. Check out the links below to get a better idea about what to expect, and to book the trip.

Read More: Guide to an Overnight Camel Safari & Why You Should Do a 2-Day Trip

Book: The best-value and longest-running overnight camel safari in Jaisalmer.

Gadisar Lake

Gadisar Lake is a man-dug lake that was constructed in the year 1367 AD. The lake was built to capture monsoon rainwater that is said to have provided fresh water for all of Jaisalmer's residents.

There are numerous shrines and temples that line the Gadisar Lake, which makes it a great attraction to check out in Jaisalmer. If you have an extra day between the camel safari and fort-exploring, make sure to add the Gadisar Lake to your itinerary!

Read: Gadisar Lake Jaisalmer – Travel Guide

Transport: Night Bus or Train to Jodhpur

After an incredible four days in the Jaisalmer desert, it's time to move to this itinerary's next destination; Jodhpur. I recommend traveling by night bus and picking one of the later ones to arrive at first light in Jodhpur.

Duration: 5-6 hours

Book your bus: Jaisalmer to Jodhpur

Day 9-10: Jodhpur

Arriving in Jodhpur is another very dramatic change of pace to the quiet desert life that you're probably already acclimatized to from Jaisalmer. Jodhpur is known as the old Marwar capital and features an equally impressive hilltop fort at its center.

Jodhpur is also known as India's Blue City, due to its majority blue theme it's got going for it. There are many reasons as to why Jodhpur is blue, but the truth is that nobody really knows why.

Read: Things to do in Jodhpur in One Day

Tour the Mehrangarh Fort

The most popular attraction to visit in Jodhpur is the Jodhpur fort: the Mehrangarh. This fort is situated high on the hilltops in the center of Jodhpur and is one of the largest forts in India.

The entry ticket to the Mehrangarh Fort costs 400 rupees and includes access to all of the temples, courtyards, and museums within. It's a little steep for a fort in my opinion, but I certainly wouldn't skip the experience to save a few dollars.

You can either opt for a self-guided tour of the fort, where you'll be given earphones and a playback recorder that walks you through the history of the Mehrangarh. Alternatively, there are English speaking tour guides who work at the fort too. However, I'd suggest just booking the guide below instead since you'll also be shown the blue city streets at the end of the tour.

Book a tour: Mehrangarh Fort Private Tour

Admire the View From a Rooftop Terrace Restaurant

Many of the hotels and restaurants in the city of Jodhpur have rooftop terraces where you can admire the beauty of the city and the famous fort. I'd highly recommend choosing a hotel which has one so that you are able to unwind with incredible views once the sun sets.

Book this view for $3: Bob's Hostel Jodhpur

Explore the Blue City

It's funny how a bit of paint can become such a world-renowned tourist attraction. While many of the Jodhpur buildings in the Old City are blue, don't expect a sweeping field of blue. I know I was confused when I first arrived in Jodhpur as to where the blue streets where.

To help you find the best streets and areas, I've written a separate guide here, so make sure to check it out and bookmark it for when you arrive.

Guide: Where to find the Blue City of Jodhpur

Book: Jodhpur Blue City Tour in 2 Hours

Check Out the Sardar Market & Ghanta Ghar Clocktower

In the city center of Jodhpur is the Ghantar Ghar clocktower and the Sardar Market, also known as the Clocktower Market. If you're roaming the streets of Jodhpur as part of this India one month itinerary, then chances are you will end up here sooner or later.

At the market you can browse the wares and try some delicious samosas and street food while snapping some great photos.

Stop By The Toorji-Ka-Jhalara Stepwell

Another notable attraction in Jodhpur is the Jodhpur stepwell, or Toorji-ka-Jhalara stepwell. I actually stumbled on it by mistake and immediately recognized it from photos I'd seen when I was planning my first trip to India.

The stepwell is a popular place for people to hang out, as well as for tourists to snap some photos. Entry to the stepwell is free and within walking distance of the Jodhpur clocktower.

Read: Jodhpur Stepwell, Toorji Ka Jhalra (Toorji’s Step Well) in Jodhpur

Transport: Bus From Jodhpur to Udaipur

The next stop on the Ultimate India Itinerary 1 Month Journey is Udaipur: The White City. The bus journey from Jodhpur to Udaipur is quite short so you can book a really late bus or a morning bus to avoid wasting a day in transit.

Duration: 5-6 hours

Book a bus: Jodhpur to Udaipur

Day 11-12: Udaipur

As with most cities in Rajasthan, Udaipur has several endearing nicknames. It's known as The City of Lakes, The White City, and India's Wedding City. Udaipur is a truly beautiful city that should definitely not be missed on your India travel route.

However, in my opinion, there aren't as many things to do and see in Udaipur as in some of the other cities. Two days should be enough, but if you want to spend more time to unwind and explore the intricate cobweb of narrow streets and sprawling lakeside temples and palaces, then I'm sure you could fill out a few more days easily.

We managed to get invited to an Indian wedding which was held on the outskirts of Udaipur. As a result, we had a bit of catching up to do in terms of itinerary items. In the end, to make up for it, we ended up staying three days in Udaipur, managing to see everything we wanted.

Explore the City Palace of Udaipur

Starting off the Udaipur adventures in true fashion is a trip to the City Palace of Udaipur. This is easily one of the most impressive palaces in the world, and it took over 400 years of construction to complete. The palace is more of a mini-city, containing temples, art galleries, halls, villas, and elaborate gateways. The City Palace truly is a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Mewar dynasty.

The City Palace sits beside Lake Pichola and visitors are free to explore the palace grounds independently or with a guide. The entry cost is 250 rupees per person, but you'll be stamped with an additional 250 rupee fee if you bring a camera of any sort.

Book: Udaipur City Palace Tour

Lake Pichola

The primary lake of Udaipur is Lake Pichola, an artificial lake constructed as far back as 1362 AD. Many of Udaipur's most famous attractions surround Lake Pichola, including the Summer Palace, Jad Mandir (island), Jagdish Temple, the Monsoon Palace, and the Neemach Mata Temple.  

The lake encompasses four islands; Jad Mandir, Jag Niwas, Mohan Mandir, and Arsi Vilas.

Exploring the lake and it's various attractions is a must-add inclusion on any itinerary for India!

Check Out the Bahubali Viewpoint

Has the hustle-and-bustle of city life got you feeling like you'll be longing for some nature? I certainly know that by now I was! Don't worry, I've got you covered with a not-so-popular item on an Udaipur itinerary.

The Bahubali Viewpoint is located at the back of Udaipur and requires you to either rent a car, motorbike, or driver to get to. You'll drive around the Monsoon Palace and into the Aravali Mountains where there are plenty of places to relax and enjoy a bit of much-needed nature.

I've written a complete guide to how to get to Bahubali Viewpoint from Udaipur which you can find on the link below.

Read: Bahubali Hills Udaipur – Epic Lake Viewpoint

Visit Animal Aid: Udaipur

Animal Aid Udaipur is an animal rescue sanctuary for street animals in Udaipur.

It's open to visitors who are able to come and meet the animals and even give a helping hand. If you're an animal lover looking to give back, spending a few hours helping at the Animal Aid is a good addition to the India itinerary.

Transport: Bus From Udaipur to Pushkar

The next transit journey from Udaipur to Pushkar can get a little confusing. Pushkar is a very small and remote desert oasis and is only well-connected to neighboring Ajmer. Therefore, you'll need to book a bus or train to Ajmer first. For this journey, we chose to take a night train because it was possible to book last-minute and it ended up being cheaper for us.

Regardless of whether you choose a bus or a train for your route, once you arrive at Ajmer, you'll need to take the short 30-minute bus onward to Pushkar. It can be a slightly intimidating experience trying to get transport to Pushkar. However, if you politely reject the touts and pushy rickshaw drivers, there is a direct public bus that runs from both the railway station and the bus stand to Pushkar for only 15 rupees.

From the bus station in Ajmer, you'll find the public bus near the last bus stall. At the railway station, you need to walk across the pedestrian overpass to the front of the station, just below the overpass.

Duration: Bus/train: 6 hours to Ajmer | public bus to Pushkar from Ajmer: 30 minutes.

Book a bus: Udaipur to Ajmer

Day 13-15: Pushkar

Arriving in Pushkar is a refreshing breath of fresh air as we near the halfway point on the India one month itinerary. The small oasis town of Pushkar is the perfect place to de-stress, unwind, and just simply take a minute to breathe. Pushkar is definitely an off-the-beaten-path destination but has been a travel hotspot for Israelis for quite some time and it's become one that's definitely catching on with the rest of the world.

Pushkar's population is only a mere 21 000 people, but sees thousands of visitors to its sacred lake on spiritual pilgrimages yearly. The main attractions include the Brahma Temple and the annual Pushkar Camel Fair in November. 

Take Some Short Hikes For Sunset Views

Have all these vibrant cities left you craving a bit of outdoor adventure? There are a couple of short but scenic hills with hilltop temples that make for great sunset hikes.

I've written about these viewpoints in separate articles which I'll link to below. They'll contain information on how to get there, what to expect, and some photos of the view. If you're looking for more inspiration for where to spend sunset in Pushkar, make sure you read my Pushkar sunset blog too.

Read More: Gayatri Mata Temple Hike Pushkar

Read More: Savitri Temple Hike Pushkar

Browse the Market Wares

Pushkar has a long history as a Hindu pilgrimage destination, with travelers coming far and wide for centuries to witness Lord Brahma's holy lake. With them, came traveling merchants who built Pushkar's vibrant market culture that remains today.

While the town is very small, you can easily get lost in its markets. You'll find stalls selling everything from fine handmade silver jewelry, clothes, spices, knives, tools, and hemp products. If you're looking to pick up a souvenir on your trip to India, this would be the place to do so.

Visit the Pushkar Lake & Brahman Temple

When you're in Pushkar, you'll end up at the lake at one time or another. The story behind Pushkar's lake, or Pushkar Sarovar, is that Brahma, the creator of the universe made the lake by dropping a lotus on the ground. Devout Hindus believe that taking a dip in the lake cleanses the soul and cures skin ailments. While you won't often find westerners swimming, Hindus regularly bathe and wash their clothes in the holy waters. efficient

Tip: What many people don't tell you is that there's a well-designed and highly efficient scam that targets western tourists in Pushkar. A "Brahman" or high-caste Hindu will tell you that he wants to give you a blessing in the lake and that it won't cost anything. After he has you by the lake, he'll "bless" you and your family, tie a string on your wrist and begin demanding money or a "donation". You'll find most travelers walking around Pushkar with this piece of string, so if you get roped in, don't feel too bad.

The second-biggest attraction in Pushkar is the incredible Brahman temple. This is known as Jagatpita Brahma Mandir and is located just beside the lake. It's a beautiful temple to explore and a unique one too since there aren't many dedicated to Lord Brahma in other parts of India.

Book: Pushkar Temples & Ghats Walking Tour

The Annual Camel Fair

One of the main attractions and celebrations held in Pushkar is the annual Pushkar Fair or Pushkar Camel Fair/Kartik Mela. The celebration is held each year on the full moon period in the Hindu lunar month of Kartik.

This is a festival attraction that is featured on many India travel itineraries and if you make it to Pushkar during this time, I'm sure you'll find that experiencing this market is one of the best things to do in India on your trip.

Rajasthani people from all over the state walk their camels through the desert to Pushkar every year to take part in the livestock trade and annual festivities. It's also now become a huge Rajasthani tourist attraction which also now brings people from all over the world. Expect camel-themed festivities including camel beauty contests, races, parades, and even dances!

2022 Pushkar Camel Fair Dates: 01 November 2022 – 09 November

Transport: Bus From Pushkar to Jaipur

After a relaxing three days in Pushkar, it's time to crank up the heat once more as we make our way to Jaipur; The Pink City. I recommend taking a bus for this leg of the journey because it's much more convenient to take a bus from Pushkar town than going all the way back to Ajmer for a train. It's also much faster than other routes so far. So, taking an afternoon or morning bus is a good bet.

Duration: 4 hours

Book: Pushkar to Jaipur

Day 16-19: Jaipur

Jaipur is the biggest city in Rajasthan and therefore I've dedicated a full four days to exploring its splendors. Entering Jaipur, you will be thrown into the thick of things, landing right in the center of the Golden Triangle tourist route.

From epic forts, mind-blowing palaces, beating, breathing, bazaars, and astonishing monuments, Jaipur is the city of culture and one that is a clear highlight on this Ultimate India Itinerary 1 Month Journey.

Nahargarh Fort

Nahargarh Fort stands on the hill-edge of the Aravalli Range and overlooks the Pink City of Jaipur. It makes up one of Jaipur's three colossal forts that once formed an effective ring around the city.

The entry cost is 200 rupees for foreigners, but it's well worth exploring. Even if you don't have the time to see the interior, I highly recommend taking the hike up to see the city from its walls, which is free.

Read: Best Jaipur Viewpoints and Sunset Points in the Pink City

Jaipur City Palace

Jaipur is the capital of the Rajasthan state and for many years the Jaipur City Palace served as the ceremonial and administrative seat for the Maharaja. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction for Indians and international visitors who come to admire the many courtyards, galleries, museums, restaurants, and beautiful doors and archways.

However, the City Palace still has royal utility, serving as the home for the present Jaipur royals.

The entry cost to the Jaipur City Palace is 500 rupees per person. Admittedly, it's a little steep compared to the other attractions you would have seen in India so far. However, visiting the City Palace in Jaipur is still definitely worth adding to your India itinerary.

Book: Jaipur CIty Palace and Amber Fort Tour

Amer Fort and the Jaipur Wall

For those of you reading this India travel guide and still in the planning stages of your India one month itinerary, make sure to add the Amer Fort (Amber Fort) to your list of things to do!

As I touched on earlier, Jaipur has three main forts, but none are as spectacular as the Amer Fort. This fort is located just a short car or rickshaw drive from Jaipur in the town of Amer. You can spend several hours admiring the many ramparts, gates, cobbled paths, and incredible viewpoints over the Thar desert.

The entry price for the Amer Fort is 200 rupees, which allows visitors to explore freely. Alternatively, you can book a local, English-speaking guide to show you through the fort and explain the finer details.

Book: Jaipur Amer Fort Walking Tour

Just opposite the entrance to the Amer Fort is the famous "Great Wall of Jaipur". This is a very scenic wall which snakes its way up the hilly terrain, serving as a first defense against invaders.

These days, the Jaipur wall is an important historical relic of Jaipur, and also one of the best spots to watch the sunset!

Read: Exploring the Jaipur Wall Near Amer Fort, Rajasthan

Jaipur Stepwell

Also located in Amer is the popular Panna Meena Ka Kund, or Jaipur Stepwell. This is a beautiful stepwell that has gained popularity among photographers and on Instagram for its creamy, faded yellow, symmetrical steps.

Visiting the Jaipur stepwell is free, so it makes perfect sense to add it to your itinerary after the Amer fort and the Amer Wall.

Read: How to Get to the Jaipur Stepwell: Panna Meena Ka Kund

Hawa Mahal

While there are many more attractions worth considering in Jaipur, including the Jal Mahal, the Jantar Mantar, and the Birla Mandir, I'll try to focus on just a few. If you're running short on time, then Hawa Mahal, in my opinion, is one of the most impressive.

It's recognized as one of the most beautiful palaces in Rajasthan, which is no simple feat! The Hawa Mahal was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, who was the grandson of Jaipur's founder. To match Jaipur's "Pink" architectural style, the palace is built out red and pink sandstone. Its facade features a honeycomb exterior of 953 small windows known as Jharokhas.

Again, you can admire the building from afar, but checking out the inside is well worth the 200 rupee entry fee.

Bonus: Jaipur Hot Air Balloon Experience

Alright, this last itinerary recommendation isn't a Jaipur-specific attraction, but a worthwhile one nonetheless. If you're been considering doing a hor air balloon ride in India, then one of the best operators you'll find are in Jaipur.

The trips usually run for sunrise or sunset and float over the golden glow of the Thar Desert. If you're looking for a breathtaking experience with a mind-blowing view, it doesn't get much better than a hot air balloon ride in Jaipur.

Book: Jaipur Hot Air Balloon Experience

Transport: Bus From Jaipur to Agra

Following an exhilarating four days exploring Jaipur's many attractions, it's time to continue on the Golden Triangle route onwards to Agra. I recommend taking a late or an early morning bus since the distance is not really long enough for an overnight sleeper. Alternatively, you can book a direct train, with the fastest option only taking 3.5 hours to reach Agra.

Duration: 5 hours

Book: Jaipur to Agra Bus

Day 20-21: Agra

For many, Agra will be a highlight of this India 1 month itinerary due to the opportunity of seeing one of the world's most beautiful buildings; The Taj Mahal. In all honesty, there's not that much to do in Agra besides seeing the Taj. But... have you really been to India if you haven't seen it? Besides, Agra makes the perfect stop-over en route to Delhi and Rishikesh, which are the two next destinations on this India travel route.

The Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is by far, India's most iconic building. The ivory-white marble mausoleum has to be seen to really be appreciated. The stonework and architecture of the Taj are second to none and is commonly recognized as the most beautiful building on earth.

And that was exactly the builder, Mughal emperor Shah Jahan's plan. He proposed the construction of the mausoleum as a token to his favorite wife; Mumtaz Mahal, from which the building got its name. It now serves as the tomb for both Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, who rest in large coffins in the main building.

The construction of the Taj Mahal finished in 1648 after the long, twenty-year construction. It's an urban legend that following the commission, Shah Jahan cut off the hands of all 40 000 workers to ensure that nothing as beautiful would ever be built again. To further illustrate this plan, it's said that he also ordered the lead architect to death!

While visiting the mausoleum grounds is a must-do (go for sunrise), you can also get a good glimpse of the Taj from many rooftop restaurants and terraces in Agra, as well as from the riverbank, and from the Agra Fort.

Skip the line: Taj Mahal Entry Ticket and Private Tour Guide

Read: 7 Best Taj Mahal View Point Locations in Agra, India

The Agra Fort

In all fairness, The Agra Fort doesn't get the attention that it truly deserves. While being largely overshadowed by the Taj Mahal, the Agra Fort is one of the most impressive on this India 1 month itinerary! It's really more akin to a walled city than just a royal fortress, being 94 acres (38 hectares) in size and encompassing an assortment of palaces, courtyards, bridges, towers, gateways, and bastions.

You can get to the Agra Fort by walking from the Taj, taking around 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can pay a rickshaw driver 150-200 rupees to drop you there. Otherwise, book a guided tour.

The entry cost to the Agra Fort is 550 rupees for foreigners.

For Backpackers: Stay at Zig Zag Hostel

Zig Zag Hostel in Agra is by far my favorite hostel in all of India. It's one that I'm not only willing to recommend, but I'd go as far as to say it's an attraction in itself.

We arrived at Zig Zag very early in the morning and immediately upon arriving we were greeted and given a bed to crash on for free. The owners of this small hostel do their best to make the stay an experience. They run free walking tours, food tours, and best of all, their "secret" Taj Mahal viewing area.

If you're looking for a great hostel to meet other travelers, embrace Indian culture, learn how to cook, and get a chance to see the Taj from arguably the best viewpoint in Agra, stay at Zig Zag!

Book: Zig Zag Hostel

Transport: Bus From Agra to Delhi

The short distance from Agra to Delhi and its well-connected nature means that both trains and fast buses are a viable option for the next leg of transport. Just keep in mind that New Delhi is remarkably huge. Plan ahead to book a route that stops at a bus terminal within a reasonable distance of your planned accommodation.

Duration: 3-4 hours

Book a bus: Agra to Delhi

Day 22-23: Delhi

For many, picturing the quintessential Indian urban city results in New Delhi coming to mind. It's the capital of India and has been continuously inhabited for as far back as 600 BCE! It's difficult to comprehend such an ancient city, let along begin to venture into its deep-rooted history.

Today, Delhi serves as the administrative capital but offers much more than politics for travelers in India. I originally planned to visit New Delhi as a transit visit on the way to Rishikesh, but I'm very glad I did. If you're following this India itinerary for one month, then a 2-day stopover in Delhi gives you enough time to explore without sacrificing too much time in the mountains.

While there are many forts, palaces, and monuments in Delhi worth visiting, I treated my visit to Delhi a little differently. Instead of chasing attractions as we had in the past 21 days, we instead just wandered the streets in search of great food and hidden gems.

Regardless, I've still included some of the main highlights in Delhi below for you to consider for your India travel itinerary. However, you'll find some more great ideas on this blog.

Qutab Minar

One of India's many UNESCO World-Heritage listed sites, the Qutab Minar, or "Victory Tower", is a five-storey tower built from marble and sandstone.

Inside the tower is a marble spiral staircase that winds its way all the way to the top. Although, this staircase has been closed for several decades, so it's only possible to admire it from afar.

Book: Private Delhi Tour: Lotus Temple, Qutub Minar and Dilli Haat

Lotus Temple

The Lotus Temple is one of the most unique attractions on this India travel guide for the reason that it's a relatively modern monument. This is especially apparent after considering the ancient wonders we have been exploring to date.

The entire lotus building is made from white marble and almost resembles the Sydney Opera House, from my home-country.. If you're in Delhi as part of your India travel itinerary, make sure to check it out during night time.

Book: Private Delhi Tour: Lotus Temple, Qutub Minar and Dilli Haat

More Things to do in Delhi

There are so many amazing things to do in India, especially in giant cities like Delhi! Below are some other highlights you might not want to miss.

• Jama Masjid (Masjid-i Jehan-Numa) - one of the largest mosques in India
• Red Fort (Lal Qila) - historic fort in Old Delhi
• Chandni Chowk - sprawling shopping district in the heart of Delhi

Transport: New Delhi to Rishikesh

The next destination on this Inda travel route is the incredible Rishikesh, located on the River Ganges in the foothills of the Himalayas. For this trip, I highly recommend getting an overnight sleeper bus from Delhi since the duration is perfect for a full night's sleep.

Tip: make sure to plan a bus route that leaves from a bus terminal close to your accommodation. Delhi is a very big city and traffic can be horrendous, so plan ahead. On the other side, you'll also be dropped at a bus station in Adarsh Gram. This is 15 minutes from the main Tapovan area of Rishikesh by road. Once you arrive, share a Vikram (large, blue tuk-tuks) to Tapovan with other passengers. Don't pay more than 350 rupees for the whole group!

Duration: 8 hours

Book: New Delhi to Rishikesh Bus

Day 24-27: Rishikesh

Nearing the end of this Ultimate India Itinerary 1 Month Journey, travelers will arrive in the hippy, yoga, and adventure capital of India: Rishikesh.

Rishikesh is my favorite destination in the country and a perfect place to visit after a very hectic and fast-paced 3 weeks of traveling in India. There are plenty of opportunities for adventures, hikes, waterfalls, cliff jumping, and more. Alternatively, you could treat the next four days as a bit of a detox while you soak in the calming ambiance of the Ganges River.

Below I'll detail some of the best things to do while in Rishikesh, but the reality is that there's just so many. You'll find more ideas and details for things to do in this Travel Guide to Rishikesh.

Hike to Waterfalls

Rishikesh's idyllic natural location on the banks of the Ganges and deep in the Himalayan foothills means that there are naturally some epic hikes and waterfalls to explore. Most of the waterfalls can be reached by foot from the Laxman Jhula bridge in the main tourist area of Tapovan.

I've written a separate Rishikesh waterfall guide, as well as individual guides for how to reach each waterfall, the latter of which you'll find in the links below.

• Neer Garh Waterfall
• Garud Chatti Falls
• Patna Falls

Beatles Ashram

A populat attraction in Rishikesh is the "Beatles Ashram". But, what is it?

The Beatles Ashram is the name given to the yoga and meditation ashram made famous by the Beatles. They chose to stay here while creating their record-shattering White Album in the 1960s. Rishikesh's popularity with spiritually-minded and free-spirited adventures today may draw inspiration from the Beatles, who shot India and particularly Rishikesh into the global tourist spotlight.

Exploring the Ashram is like stepping back in time to the "swinging sixties", as you explore the old, no longer running ashram.

Whitewater Rafting on the Ganges

Out of the many incredible destinations on this 1 month India itinerary, Rishikesh has to be the most diverse. It offers the best of both extremes; relaxed, sleepy vibes, and hectic, adrenaline-pumping adventures.

One of the best things to do in Rishikesh is to go white water rafting down the mainy courses of the Ganges River. Below I've linked to one of the best-rated whitewater rafting tours, which accommodate courses and routes for people with varying experience and ability.

Book: Whitewater Rafting Rishikesh

Rent a Classic Royal Enfield and Explore the Mountain Roads

Name a better way to explore the Himalayan foothills than by a two-wheeled classic. In Rishikesh, you can rent a 500cc+ Royal Enfield for approximately 1500 rupees per day. This gives you the freedom to explore the greater mountainous region surrounding Rishikesh.

If you're up for an epic adventure, I' highly recommend riding to the Kunjapuri Devi Temple for the most scenic ride and epic views at the end.

Bungy Jump & Giant Swing

Still feeling the need for speed? Rishikesh has a world-renowned, bungy jump and giant swing which is run by jump masters from the birthplace of bungy; New Zealand.

Both the bungy and the giant swing are the tallest and most-epic in India. Also, they are really cheap when compared to other parts of the world. If a bungy jump has been on your bucket list for a while, then definitely add it as a must-do attraction on your India 1 month itinerary.

Book: Jumpin Heights Bungy Rishikesh

Book: Giant Swing Rishikesh

Transport: Bus from Rishikesh to Varanasi

Are you ready for the longest journey on this India travel itinerary? The bus journey to our final destination; Varanasi, is a very long, but scenic bus route that stretches nearly 840 kilometers starting and finishing at different points along the Ganges River.

Luckily, there are a few very high-quality and comfortable overnight sleeper buses departing from the bus terminal in Adarsh Gram, just 15 minutes from Tapovan in Rishikesh.

I highly recommend taking a bus for this journey as it offers the only direct transport to our next destination. Also, try to get a sleeper bus departing at around 4-5 or in the afternoon so that you arrive in Varanasi early the next morning.

Duration: 16 hours

Book: Rishikesh to Varanasi Overnight Bus

Day 28-30: Varanasi

We've made it to the final destination on this Ultimate India Itinerary 1 Month Journey, and what an adventure it has been. The final highlight of this India trip is Varanasi; the holiest of cities, which is a fitting end to this incredible pilgrimage of ours.

Varanasi, which is also known as Benaras, is recognized for its holiness in Hindu and Jain religions and played an important role in the development of both Buddhism and Ravidassia. It's a holy pilgrimage site that attracts tens of thousands of people to its banks every year.

According to some sources, Varanasi could also be the oldest surviving city on earth, founded up to 5000 years ago by Lord Shiva. However, according to the historians, best estimates put Varanasi at around 3000 years old, which is still a very impressive figure.

Ganges River Boat For Sunrise

The Ganges is the world's most sacred river and its waters flow from glacial waters high in the Uttarakhandi Himalaya, over 1000 kilometres from Varanasi. By far, the best way to experience its beauty and sacred importance is to take a sunrise boat ride from the Varanasi Ghats.

This is one of the most popular things to do in Varanasi, and consequently, there are hundreds of row boats lined up every morning at the river banks. On a morning boat ride, you will get to experience the golden glow of the morning sun lighting up the temples and burning ghats as you slowly row downstream.

Book: Varanasi Sunrise Boat and Ghat Tour

Read: Varanasi Ganges River Boat Trip: Sunrise Morning Boat Ride – Complete Guide

Visit the Ghats

Devout Hindus travel from all over India to cremate their loved ones in the ghats of Varanasi, the holiest of burial sites in India - the biggest of which is the Dashashwamedh Ghat. The fire burning in the ghats is said to never extinguish and often has been burning for several hundred years. However, the Varanasi ghats mean more to Indian people than just a cremation site. Most offer steps leading to the water's edge where devout Hindus can bathe and perform religious rituals.

Visiting such a holy place requires travelers to exercise respectful reservations. Don't disrespect the lives of those being cremated and respect the ancient culture and customs.

Meet a Sadhu

The Sadhu or Holy Men of Varanasi are spiritually devout individuals who have vowed to renounce the material world. Due to the sacred nature of Varanasi, these ascetics often congregate to the city where they pray and practice daily rituals and ceremonies on the Ganges riverbank.

For one to become a Sadhu, they must give up all worldly possessions and means of acquiring them. They get by solely from the donations of others, much like devout Buddhist monks in other parts of Asia. I found it fascinating that many of Varanasi's Sadhu started very ordinary lives, some of which were successful businessmen or corporate employees.

Getting the opportunity to photograph the Sadhu of Varanasi was an incredible moment for me. My goal was to try to capture just how respected and revered these men are in Hindu culture and religion.

It might seem strange to those from the west to be blessed by a naked man covered in human ashes and wielding a peacock-feathered staff. But, after witnessing these unusual and far-distant customs, it makes me question all of the weird things that we do in the west and still consider normal.

Perspective is important, but the meaning we derive from our unique cultures and history is what makes the human race so fascinating.

Cleanse the Soul in the Ganges

Did I mention that the Ganges was a holy river? Okay, you get it. But would you be willing to bathe in its cleansing waters?

It's said that one dip in the holy river cleanses the mind and soul and rids the body of afflictions. It's no wonder then that you'll find many Hindu men and women bathing together each morning.

For westerners, it may seem just a little strange that one would swim in water that contains the burnt ashes of thousands of other humans. But for Hindus, this is one of the purest forms of cleansing.

Experience the Ganga Aarti

Each evening, thousands of people gather to the Dashashwamedh Ghat to watch the holy ceremony known as the Ganga Aarti. It's a fire ceremony, or Agni Pooja, conducted by high-caste Brahman priests. The ceremony is dedicated to worshipping Lord Shiva, the River Ganga, Agni (sun), and Surya (sun).

The Ganga Aarti is performed in many cities, villages and towns along the Ganges River, but none draw a crowd like the Aarti in Varanasi.

The fire performance with live music and chanting is a powerful scene that will leave anyone feeling fresh and with a renewed sense of appreciation for this beautiful ritual.

The End of the Ultimate India Itinerary 1 Month Journey

And just like that, this epic India 1 month itinerary draws to an end. The final day will see you fly back to your home country, or onwards to your next country or destination.

There is an international airport (Lal Bahadur Shastri), which is located approximately 45 minutes drive from the city center. Public transport to the airport exists but is slightly confusing and unreliable. Instead, I recommend just booking a cheap private airport transfer online.

There are many flight routes connecting Varanasi to major international terminals. However, you might find that some of the cheapest flights include a layover in Lucknow or Delhi.

For those continuing their India travel itineraries, or moving onto Kathmandu Nepal, perhaps to do some trekking, there is also a central bus hub just 15 minutes from Varanasi central.

If you have made it this far down into the blog post, I thank you, and really hope that you gain some value from this travel guide.

India is an incredible destination and if you're still planning your trip, I wish you all the best in your adventures! Moving on with this blog post, I've included a rather lengthy travel guide to India below which should answer most of your questions and give you some useful tips about planning a trip to India.

Tip: Consider visiting Sri Lanka or South India after this epic trip!

More Places to See In India To - Extend Your Trip!

While I know that you probably feel like this India 1 month itinerary covers A LOT in just 30 days, there are so many more places worth visiting that didn't make the cut.

Below I've listed a few notable places and things to do in India that you might want to consider when planning your itinerary or for future trips.

• Ranthambore National Park
• Goa & Hampi - best places to visit in South India
• Alleppey
• Darjeeling
• Amritsar
• Leh
• Kashmir
• Manali

India Travel Guide: What to Know Before You Go

Before you embark on your epic India travel itinerary, make sure to check out some of these tips and answers to common questions to have you more prepared for your trip.

Visas for Travel in India

Do you need a visa to travel to India? The answer is yes. For most western countries, the visa process is quite simple and can be completed online using the government's e-visa platform. You'll need to provide all of your information and an electronic passport photo as part of your application. The visa you will want to get for travel is an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) e-tourist visa.

It's possible to apply for visas of different lengths, but if you're only going to travel in India on a 1 month itinerary, then 30 days makes perfect sense. The price varies depending on your country of citizenship, so you should check the e-visa website for up-to-date visa fees and information.

Packing List

Besides securing a visa, perhaps the next most important thing to consider for your India travel plan is what you are going to bring! I've covered what you should pack (and what you shouldn't) extensively in this India packing list blog post, so make. sure to check it out before you go.

How Much Does it Cost to Follow this India Itinerary

Travel budgets are a difficult topic to cover because everybody travels differently. That's why in this India itinerary guide, I've linked to budget, mid-range, and luxury accommodations throughout.

The truth is that traveling in India can be very cheap. Some days, I spent less than $4USD for accommodation and probably less on street food, easily clearing under a daily budget of $10USD. However, if you've read some of my other guides or blogs, then you'll know I that I prefer this no-frills approach to shoestring travel. Living basically and cheaply is just something that I've learned to prefer over the past few years of living on the road.

However, I do understand that many people prefer to spend a little more on nice restaurant meals and rooms with a view.

Here is a cost breakdown of what you might expect to pay daily if you usually stick to a budget when traveling. Truthfully, these numbers are conservative and if you're used to living on a budget, you'll probably spend less. For those with a higher-end budget, expect to pay anywhere between 3-10x as much.

Travel Insurance for a 1 Month India Trip

India is going to be one destination where you’ll definitely want to have travel insurance, especially if you're going to follow this action-packed India 1 month itinerary.

I swear by, and always use World Nomads Travel Insurance. Their policies cover me for the things I actually want, like hospital cover, accidents, theft, and travel delays.

Most importantly, since World Nomads value their returning customers, if you need to claim, they don’t try to dodge you like most insurers.

If you’re a digital nomad, you should also consider SafetyWing insurance. I’ve written a comprehensive comparison guide between the two here which might help you make up your mind.

Use the widget below to get a quick, personalize quote from World Nomads to add to your list of things plan for your India itinerary 1 month journey!

Getting Around in India - Trains vs Buses

I've touched on the topic of trains and buses when it comes to traveling around India already throughout this post. As you've seen, choosing buses over trains is typically going to be a cheaper and easier option, especially if you like to book things last minute for most flexibility.

However, there are routes in this India 1 month itinerary where a train journey makes more sense e.g. from Udaipur to Pushkar. For a more in-depth rundown on traveling in India on buses, check out his blog post.

Best Time to Visit India

What's the best time to visit India is a question that also comes up quite often. The answer is that it will vary depending on where you'll be spending time. For this itinerary, the best time to visit is between the months of October and March. During this time, weather is cooler in the desert, and you'll avoid the monsoon rains too.

Notable Holidays, Festivals & Celebrations

With a country with such a rich history and diverse culture, you'd expect there to be hundreds, if not thousands of notable holidays, events, and celebrations worth visiting. That's exactly what I was faced with when trying to organize the dates for my first travel itinerary to India.

Below I'll summarize some of the biggest and most well-known holidays and celebrations, as well as where they are celebrated.

All India, Holi Festival: Usually March
(If there is one festival that you try to experience, make it Holi! I celebrated Holi in Varanasi a few years ago and it was one of the best festivals I've ever experienced).

All India, Mahashivratri (Shiva's birthday): Usually in March

Pushkar Camel Fair: Usually October or November

All India, Diwali: Between October - December

Maharashtra, Ganesh Chaturthi: August - September

FAQs About Travel in India

1. How to Avoid Delhi Belly

Delhi Belly or travelers' diarrhea is a serious problem that western stomachs just don't tend to deal well with. Our immune systems tend to be too weak to handle Inda-level bacteria due to years of consuming ultra-sanitized diets. However, don't sacrifice the experience of tasting some of the best street food in the world simply because you're worried about getting sick. Instead, combine common sense with preventative supplements like Travelan, probiotics, and activated charcoal tablets (make sure to consult with your travel doctor first).

2. Is Travel in India Safe?

There's a common misconception, perhaps due to the fast-pace and overall hectic ambiance that India exhibits, that it is unsafe to travel. However, I firmly believe that travel in India is just as safe as many other countries in Asia. Of course, there are going to be instances where travelers get mixed up in the wrong crowds or are the target of scams, but the inconvenient truth is that this happens everywhere.

3. What is the Deal with the Caste System in India?

Indian society is structured on the ancient customs of caste, known universally in India as Jati.

Hindus believe that people from different parts of India, and with different customs, are born into that caste based on how they lived their previous lives.

This concept is extremely dense, and any uneducated foreigner is going to make a mess of trying to explain it. However, below is an infographic that I think does a good job of explaining the gist to outsiders.

The caste system divides Hindus into hierarchical groups which dictates things like who one should marry, what work one should carry out, and how much respect one deserves. This system is 3000 years old and although progressive Indian cities tend to break the mould of caste a little, it's still a fundamental part of Indian culture and society.

At the top of the caste ladder are the Brahmans, who are the holiest of castes and work as priests and teachers. Divergently, those at the bottom of this hierarchy: the Dalits (untouchables), are those people deemed so low in society that they aren't part of the system. They are condemned to conduct work that is deemed too dirty or degrading for other castes like dealing with human waste.

Admittedly, this is a very over-simplified explanation aimed at appeasing the general curiosity of travelers and outsiders. The truth is that India harbors an incredible diversity of people, with seemingly millions of secluded and interconnected cultural attributes, languages, heritages, and religions.

More Things to do in India - Itinerary Recap

And that concludes my Ultimate India Itinerary 1 Month Journey and India travel guide. If you found it useful, you have any questions, suggestions or updates for other travelers, please reach out by leaving a comment.

Otherwise, if you're looking for more travel inspiration for India, check out this list of links below.

Enjoy!

• 16 Best Things to do in Rishikesh For the Adventure Traveler
• 2-Day Overnight Camel Safari Jaisalmer - Everything You Need to Know
• Bahubali Hills Udaipur - Epic Lake Viewpoint
• Exploring the Jaipur Wall Near Amer Fort, Rajasthan
• Garud Chatti Waterfall Rishikesh - Complete Guide
• How to Get to the Jaipur Stepwell 2020: Panna Meena Ka Kund | Rajasthan
• Overnight Sleeper Buses in India - Best Way to Travel India on a Budget
• Top 3 Unmissable Waterfalls in Rishikesh
• Training at HMI Darjeeling - (Himalayan Mountaineering Institute in India)
• Varanasi Ganges River Boat Trip: Sunrise Morning Boat Ride - Complete Guide
• Where to Find the Blue City in Jodhpur - Rajasthan, India

The post India Itinerary 1 Month Journey – Best Things to do in India in 2023 appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Jodhpur is the second-most populous city in Rajasthan and the old capital of the mighty Marwar Kingdom. As you’d expect, the city is rich with history, Rajasthani culture, and incredible architecture.

In this quick and painless India travel guide, I’ll detail the best Jodhpur one day itinerary for you to follow on your trip. This guide will be a bit fast-paced, but it covers all of the best things to do in Jodhpur in one day, including the Mehrangarh Fort, visiting the Blue City, Clocktower Market, Jodhpur Stepwell, and more!

The Ultimate India Travel Resource

Looking for more India travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for the trip of a lifetime.

• Ultimate 1 Month India Itinerary
• Essential India Packing List

Things to do in Jodhpur in One Day

Depending on what time you arrive, you might struggle to fit all of these things to do and places to visit in Jodhpur in one day. However, this itinerary will assume that you’ve got a full day to explore this incredible city if you don’t feel free to pick and choose some of the Jodhpur attractions listed below to form your own itinerary!

If you’d prefer not to leave it up to fate, then I suggest booking a complete 1-day tour of Jodhpur. The tour I’ve linked to below covers everything mentioned in this article and will save you time haggling for rickshaws as you race to the next attraction. It’s also super affordable and rated 5-stars on Viator, arguably the best booking sites in India.

Book: Jodhpur Complete Tour Including All Highlights

Explore The Mehrangarh Fort

You simply cannot visit Jodhpur and not see the incredible Mehrangarh Fort. It’s one of the most massive forts in India and towers 125 meters above the ancient city. Once inside, you are free to explore the historic villas, rooms, treasures, and museums within.

Visiting the fort will take a considerable chunk out of your already packed one day Jodhpur itinerary. Therefore, I suggest heading up to the fort as your first port of call. Entry to the fort starts at 9 AM, giving you a bit of time to eat breakfast at your accommodation beforehand.

Entry to the Mehrangarh Fort costs 400 rupees for foreigners and 40 for Indians. I generally keep these up-to-date, but you can double-check on the Jodhpur tourism website.

Book: Transport To & Guided Tour of The Mehrangarh For $10

Photograph the Blue Streets of Jodhpur

Like many cities in Rajasthan, Jodhpur has a designated color that describes its dominant architectural color scheme. Jodhpur is known as the Blue City, and you will find many dazzling blue streets throughout the Old City underneath the fort.

However, when I first set out to photograph the alluring blue streets as part of my growing list of things to do in Jodhpur in one day, I discovered it wasn’t as easy to find as first expected. Therefore, if you’re in a rush and longing to cram the sea of blue streets into your itinerary, I highly recommend reading my self-guided article to where to find the Blue City streets of Jodhpur.

Otherwise, you could also book a quick 2-hour walking tour of the Blue City after checking out the fort just in time for a late afternoon lunch at your next stop: the Clocktower Market.

Book: Quick 2-Hour Walking Tour of the Jodhpur Blue City

Browse the Market Wares at the Clocktower Market

After all of that walking, you’ll no doubt be getting hungry! This next stop on this one day in Jodhpur itinerary is the city’s central hub: The Clocktower Market. This central clocktower is known as the Ghanta Ghar, a historical monument surrounded by a buzzing bazaar known as the Sardar Market.

Exploring the goods for sale is an excellent way to spend the afternoon. But, what’s even better are the surrounding restaurants. Take your pick from fresh samosas, table-width thalis, or delicious plates of dal baati churma.

Stop By the Jodhpur Stepwell

Located just a quick stroll from the Sardar Market is Jodhpur’s famous stepwell. If you’ve still got daylight left, then this is going to be the last attraction on this Jodhpur one day itinerary.

Known as Toorki Ka Jhalra, or Tooji’s Stepwell, it was constructed in 1740 to serve as a central hub for Jodhpur citizens to collect water, socialize, and to sell their goods and produce.

Today, it’s a popular historic site that’s great for photography. Also, the stepwell attracts daring local kids and teens who play a daily cat and mouse game with the security, as they jump off the buildings into the deep water before running away from an impending beating.

Finish the Day at a Rooftop Restaurant

What a day! I warned you, this itinerary was going to be fast-paced. However in my defense, I didn’t want you just tipping your toes, instead, I prefer you’d sink your teeth into this incredible city— and I’m bet you’re glad you did! But now, it’s time to unwind and reflect on the awesome experience you’ve had exploring all of the best things to do in Jodhpur in one day!

And what better way to do so than by enjoying a hearty meal atop one of Jodhpur’s many rooftop restaurants and cafes? There are many to choose from, each claiming to have the best view of the fort. However, there were a few that stood out for me. These include Nirvana House, Shivam Restaurant, and Bob’s Hostel.

However, you might not want to walk around Jodhpur trying to find another restaurant. For this reason, I recommend that you choose to stay at a hotel or hostel that includes a good rooftop restaurant. This way, you can relax, mingle, and enjoy before heading down to sleep. If you keep reading below, I’ve got a section dedicated to the best places to stay for your consideration.

RELATED: 7 Best Taj Mahal View Point Locations in Agra, India

Where to Stay in The Blue City of India: Jodhpur

• Where I stayed: Bob’s Hostel. This place was a no-brainer for me. Located near the central clocktower, includes a rooftop restaurant with views of the fort, and only $3 a night!
• Best hostel for the vibe: Moustache Jodhpur. Moustache is always a safe bet for a quality budget hostel with a great vibe in India. It’s one of the highest-ranked hostel on Hostelworld and is located near. the center of Jodhpur.
• Best fort view hotel: The Arch Boutique. This is easily one of the best Hotels in Jodhpur. The rooms have a very rustic vibe and include a balcony with your very own private view of the fort!

More on Booking.com

More Photos from My One Day In Jodhpur

Staying Longer? – More Places to See in Jodhpur

Okay, one day just isn’t enough to explore this incredible Rajasthani city. If you’re lucky and have more time, then add these to your Jodhpur to do list.

1. Chamunda Mata temple
2. Roa Jodha Desert rock park
3. Mahadev Temple

More: Rajasthan Travel Guides and Inspiration

Where to next? If you’ve enjoyed this Things to do in Jodhpur in One Day – One Day Jodhpur Itinerary guide, then make sure to check out some of my other travel guides to Rajasthan and other parts of India.

Going to Jaipur? Check out: 7 Best Jaipur Viewpoints. What about Jaisalmer? Don’t miss the Jaisalmer Fort.

Otherwise, take a pick from several articles below. Also, before you go, if you have any suggestions for restaurants, attractions, or more things to do and see in the city, make sure to let me and other travelers know in the comments!

• 2-Day Overnight Camel Safari Jaisalmer – Everything You Need to Know
• 20 Best Things to do in Rishikesh, India – Ultimate 2023 Travel Guide
• Chor Bazaar: Thieves Market in Mumbai – Photojournal & Travel Guide
• Exploring the Jaipur Wall Near Amer Fort, Rajasthan
• India Itinerary 1 Month Journey – Best Things to do in India in 2023
• Overnight Sleeper Buses in India – Best Way to Travel India on a Budget
• Travel Packing List for India: What You Need to Bring On a Trip to India
• Varanasi Ganges River Boat Trip: Sunrise Morning Boat Ride – Complete Guide

MY CAMERA AND PHOTOGRAPHY EQUIPMENT

• Mirrorless Camera: Canon R5
• Drone: DJI Mavic Pro 2
• 360 Action Camera: Insta360 One X2
• Landscape Lens: Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L
• All-Round Lens: Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L
• Telephoto Lens: Canon RF 100-500mm f/f/4.5-7.1 L
• Long Action Pole: Insta360 Invisible Pole (BulletTime)
• Landscape Lens Filter: Hoya Circular Polarizer
• Camera Backpack: F-Stop Tilopa
• Favorite Photography Accessory: Peak Design Capture Clip

For a list of all my recommended photography gear (including what I use and why) check out my guide to camera gear for travel.

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Rishikesh has long been a spiritual destination. The powerful flow of the holy Ganges has always attracted those seeking direction and inspiration from devout Hindus, yoga and meditation gurus, and even the Beatles!

In fact, Rishikesh is often referred to as the Land of God.

However, what many people don’t realize is that Rishikesh is famous for two names, the latter being The Adventure Capital of India. And, it’s easy to see why; from whitewater rafting on the Ganges to jungle waterfall trekking, this Uttarakhand gem is loaded with adventure potential.

In this guide, I’ll be outlining some of the best things to do in Rishikesh for those of you seeking adrenaline and adventure. Not only that, but you’ll also find some “must-dos” that you should definitely add in between your adventure-packed Rishikesh itineraries.

Tip: At the bottom of this post, I've also included a "Rishikesh Travel Guide" that includes some useful information for planning your trip. Once you've listed all of the epic things to do in Rishikesh, make sure to check out that section to help better plan your trip.

20 Best Things to do in Rishikesh, India

From waterfall trekking in beautiful hilly terrain to river rafting down the Ganges River, here are the best things to do in Rishikesh in the beautiful state of Uttarakhand, India.

1. River Rafting on the Ganges

Whitewater rafting (river rafting) is perhaps the most iconic adventure activity in Rishikesh and a unique opportunity to experience the holy river in all its glory.

Since the rafting scene is fairly large in Rishikesh, there are numerous companies and tours advertising whitewater trips. You'll also find different routes based on your experience.

This Rishikesh whitewater rafting tour is one of the best and most cost-effective in Rishikesh and offers four options:

• 9km from Brahmapuri to Nim beach
• 16km from Shivpuri to Nim beach,
• 25km from Marine Drive to Nim beach
• 35km from Kodiyala to Nim beach.

The price will also vary depending on the course but it was very affordable compared to other parts of the world.

Best Rate on White Water Rafting

2. Waterfall Trekking from Rishikesh Town

While a lot of the Rishikesh adventure activities and attractions on this list involve some kind of paid tour, hikes are always a great free option. They're even better if a waterfall is involved.

Rishikesh is located in the foothills of the Himalayas. As a result of this unique rocky terrain, you'll find some spectacular limestone waterfalls on the adjacent sloping hills.

I've written a guide to the 3 Best Waterfalls in Rishikesh, which are all within walking distance of Tapovan and the Lakshman Bridge. Otherwise, here are the links to the individual posts for the top three:

• Neer Garh Waterfall
• Patna Waterfall
• Garud Chatti Waterfall

3. Cliff Jumping in the Ganges near Rishikesh

The steep banks of the Ganges River have some epic cliff-jumping spots. You'll often find groups of people launching off the large boulders and sharp embankments into pools of calm Ganga water.

There are dozens of good spots ranging from small, 3-meter drops to epic 15-meter+ jumps.

If you're inexperienced, I'd recommend getting a guide to show you the ropes. I couldn't find any Rishikesh tours that just included cliff jumping. However, if you book the whitewater rafting tour recommended above or the camping trip (below), they both include organized cliff jumps.

4. Rent a Royal Enfield and Ride to the Himalayan Foothills

Besides Bollywood and Chai, there's nothing as iconically India as a Royal Enfield motorbike. If you've always wanted to ride a motorbike through the hills underneath the Himalayas, then Rishikesh is the place to do it!

The best place to rent an Enfield is in Tapovan, where there are several motorbike hire places. The cost of renting a Royal Enfield is around 1500 rupees per day, which is much dearer than a smaller scooter or motorbike (between 350-500 rupees). Licensing works off of your home driver's license, which in India, is considered to cover two-wheelers. However, you'll want to be confident to hit these roads.

However, if you have experience riding a heavier 500CC+ motorbike, then the Enfield is the way to go. At t the end of the day, it's really quite affordable and a no-brainer tradeoff for the experience.

Once you've got your set of two wheels, either hit the road to explore or take the route to the Maa Kunjapuri Devi Temple (below) for some epic Himalayan views. Either way, exploring the mountain roads on an Enfield is easily one of the best adventures in Rishikesh you could have!

5. Hike or Ride to Kunjapuri Devi Temple

This temple is located approximately 26 kilometers from Rishikesh along steep and winding mountain roads. Getting here is an epic and awe-inspiring adventure in itself, especially if you rent a motorbike. On the way, you'll pass rich forests and Mars-like dusty roads with distant snow-capped Himalayan backdrops.

The Maa Kunjapuri Devi Temple is located on a hill with an elevation of 1600M+ and offers incredible views of the snow-clad Himalayas and surrounding foothills. However, before they are earned, you'll need to climb the 300 stairs from the main gate.

There are also some resident monkeys here that love to cause a bit of mischief with devout Hindus who consider this temple very important.

If motorbikes and steep cliffs aren't your idea of adventure, there's also the option of taking a tour here from Rishikesh, which takes approximately 8 hours.

Book a hiking tour instead: Kunjapuri Devi Temple hike (hundreds of five star reviews from Rishikesh).

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6. Walk Across Lakshman Jhula & Ram Jhula Bridge

Lakshman Jhula, also spelled Laxman Jhula, is a red iron suspension bridge that crosses the Ganges River in the popular tourist area of Tapovan in Rishikesh.

You'll definitely end up adding this to your list of things to see in Rishikesh and might even end up here without knowing when crossing from Tapovan to Jonk, either on a cafe crawl or just wandering around the holy city.

When you visit this Rishikesh tourist attraction, make sure to keep your wallet close and your bags locked as thieving, opportunistic monkeys like to prowl on the Lakshman Jhula Bridge. They love pickpocketing unsuspecting tourists.

Another famous hanging bridge is the Ram Jhula. This is found just a little further upstream on the Ganges River in Rishikesh. There's also a nice place you can relax near the bridge, known as Ram Jhula Beach.

Tip: There is a beautiful temple next to Lakshman Jhula bridge in Tapovan called Tera Manzil Temple (Lakshman Temple or Trimbakeshwar Temple). You'll see this on the southern banks of the River Ganga and it's worth taking a closer look!

7. Visit the "Beatles Ashram"

Even for the non-religious, taking a stroll down to the Ganges River evokes some pretty powerful and spiritual emotions. Anyone who's ever been to Rishikesh could easily understand why the Beatles chose the place to seek inspiration for their "White Album" in the 1960s. And, it seems it was exactly what Lennon and McCartney needed since the hit later went on to sell 24 million copies, the third highest-selling album in history.

During that time, The Beatles studied Transcendental Meditation with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi at a then, quaint forest Ashram on the Ganges shoreline.

Now, the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram is no longer teaching yoga or meditation but is instead a "museum-like" destination named The Beatles Ashram.

Getting here from Rishikesh takes roughly 30-40 minutes of leisurely walking and entry tickets cost 600 rupees for foreigners. However, we were able to easily sneak in for free by strolling in from the river bank (you didn't hear it from me).

8. Ashram Hopping - Practice Yoga in the Yoga Capital of the World

Okay, Rishikesh has more than just two colloquially recognized names. Another, perhaps more often used, is Yoga Capital of the World - and that's a pretty big name to live up to.

There are dozens of well-known and highly respected Ashrams in Rishikesh and you'll be hard-pressed to find a hotel or cafe that doesn't offer yoga classes. I hadn't done too much yoga myself before visiting Rishikesh. But, since my hostel offered free rooftop yoga in the mornings, I thought it was the perfect chance to try something new.

Update: After first visiting Rishikesh in 2019, I've continued my yoga practice, committing to yoga every week!

If you've ever wanted to become a Yogi, or Yoga instructor, there are also dozens of reputable schools in Rishikesh. Due to the competition, Rishikesh is also one of the cheapest places to do the course! Below is a list of the best ashrams to check out in Rishikesh:

• Swarg Ashram
• Sivananda Ashram
• Parmarth Niketan Ashram

The Ultimate India Travel Resource

Looking for more India travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for the trip of a lifetime.

• Ultimate 1 Month India Itinerary
• Essential India Packing List

9. Giant Swing in the Rishikesh Hills

"I thought this was a list of the best things to do in Rishikesh for adventurers!" Okay, if Yoga and exploring decaying Ashrams aren't your idea of adventure, then the Rishikesh Giant Swing will be sure to get you back into the adrenaline "swing of things".

The Giant Swing in Rishikesh is the largest of its kind in India and is truly world-class. The operation is run by Jump Masters from Queenstown in New Zealand and it shows.

The swing is called "Jumpin Heights" and you can jump solo or tied to your partner or lucky dorm-mate for roughly $43 USD, including pickup and dropoff at your accommodation.

10. Go Bungee Jumping

Rishikesh wouldn't be a world-class adventure destination without a resident bungee jump. So, if you're looking to unlock your inner adventure junkie, you have to try Bungy in Rishikesh!

Located at the same place (Jumpin Heights) as the Giant Swing, the Rishikesh Bungee Jump is also India's tallest bungee at 83 meters over the Ganges River!

If you're keen on trying the giant swing, a bungee, and the flying fox, you can check out this combo package. Alternatively, you can book the bungee separately using the same link.

11. Camping in Rishikesh

After the hustle and bustle of Indian backpacking and travel, getting back to nature in Rishikesh is always a welcoming change of pace. If you're looking for an epic multi-day trip exploring the best of Rishikesh and camping with like-minded travelers in the jungles beside the holiest River on earth, then I've got you covered.

You can book camping with Camp White World Expeditions, which runs an amazing experience 21 km from Rishikesh in a beautiful valley near the Ganges. This is a really top-rated bookable experience in Rishikesh and even has a Badge of Excellence on Tripadvisor.

After all the epic adventure activities in Rishikesh like sightseeing tours, bungee, giant swing, water sports, whitewater rafting and cliff jumping– the best way to just unwind and meet new people is to go jungle camping.

If you'd prefer to camp independently, you could check out the "Camp River Zone" or alternative tour companies camping near Marine Drive.

I wouldn't recommend freedom camping by yourself in the forests beside Rishikesh as herds of elephants and even tigers (apparently) could be present in the jungle.

12. Rock Climbing

Of course, Rishikesh wouldn't be an adventure travel destination without rock climbing! The truth is, there are several great rock climbing locations in the Ganga Valley worth checking out.

There are also a few adventure travel tour companies offering rock climbing and repelling trips.

Update: Unfortunately, the tour company I went with on my first trip to Rishikesh has now shut down. However, if you do a search you'll be able to find some. Alternatively, just walk around Tapovan and there are plenty of tour offices where you can book a rock climbing adventure.

13. Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat - Best Thing to do in Rishikesh at Night

One of the best things to do for sunset in Rishikesh is to head to the Triveni Ghat to watch the famous Ganga Aarti. This is a sacred Hindu fire offering ceremony specific to the Ganges River. It is also present in other holy places such as Varanasi and Haridwar.

The Ganga Aarti is performed every night during sunset as well as every morning for sunrise. The timings work off the sunrise and sunset times. Therefore, it will vary by season. I'd recommend getting to the Ghat about 40 minutes before sunset.

Allow about an hour if you want to walk 5 kilometers from Tapovan. Otherwise, a rickshaw or blue Vikram won't cost more than 150 rupees for the trip.

• Google Maps Pin: "Triveni Ghat"

Tip: Also don't miss the Raghunath Temple where there are regular religious ceremonies performed.

14. Rajaji National Park Safari

Like me, if you missed out on a Ranthambore Safari booking, you're in luck if you make it to Rishikesh. There are a select few safari tours heading to Rajaji National Park, which offers an opportunity to spot a wild Bengal Tiger. This is one of the best national parks near Rishikesh for wildlife spotting!

This safari tour includes a professional wildlife guide who upholds strict viewing rules to not disturb the tigers and other animals in the park. In terms of wildlife and nature, this Safari Tour has to be one of the most underrated and epic things to experience in Rishikesh!

Book a Rajaji National Park Tiger Safari online for the best deal.

15. Parasailing and Paragliding Above Rishikesh

Chasing the best possible view of the incredible Rishikesh landscapes? Pocket your drone, there's no better way to get a real birds-eye view than to go parasailing and paragliding. If you want the best possible views of the Himalayan foothills around the Rishikesh mountains, this is your best experience!

In my opinion, a paragliding experience is one of the best adventurous things to do in Rishikesh. Like most things in India, the options are also fairly cheap in comparison to places like Switzerland.

16. Go Hiking in The Mountains around Rishikesh & Beyond

Due to its location, Rishikesh is a hiking and trekking dream hotspot. There are hundreds of short day hikes and a select few epic overnight hikes to snowy peaks below the Himalayas.

With so many to choose from, it's hard to know where to even start. For quick hikes close to Rishikesh, check out the waterfall links above. Also, this blog covers some of the best treks on offer near Rishikesh and includes some epic overnighters too.

The longer treks are usually offered as a tour package since you'll need gear, accommodation, and transport. Below I've listed some of the best trekking tours in Rishikesh.

• Nagtibba Trek (Dehradun to Dehradun) - easy trek but beautiful scenery including Himalayan views, snow, fields, and forest.
• 4D3N Deoria Tal, Chopta, Tungnath, and Chandrashila Treks
• 4D3N Dayara Bugyal Trek (Haridwar)
• Kunjapuri Trek
• Kuari Pass

As it was for us, Rishikesh is a popular destination for backpackers prior to heading to Nepal for Himalayan trekking. The foothills and nearby trekking peaks were a perfect warm-up for us before our Three Passes Trek.

17. Visit the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple (Shiva Temple)

The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is another beautiful Hindu temple worth visiting when exploring Rishikesh and the surrounding area.

It takes roughly one hour to get here if you rent a motorbike in Tapovan. However, similarly to the Kunjapuri Devi Temple, the journey itself is well worth the ride.

Neelkanth is associated with Lord Shiva. And, according to Hinduism, this is the very place that Shiva ingested all the poison from the ocean and placed it in his throat. This, in turn, made Shiva's throat turn blue.

18. Watch Sunset on the Ganges

After a long day of adventure-fueled adrenaline, it's always great to sink into the Rishikesh "chill" for sunset.

Head down to the river banks, hostel rooftop, or any of the hundreds of cafes near Lakshman Jhula and finish the day off with an incredible Uttarakhand sunset.

19. Visit the Veda5 Retreat

Veda5 is one of India's very best luxury wellness destinations. It's nestled in the Himalayas near Rishikesh and offers healing and rejuvenation through ayurveda treatments, yoga classes, guided meditation sessions and amazing organic food.

The best part is, you can drop in to Veda5 on a holistic, 8 hour day visit which includes:

• lunch
• one hour ayurveda or organic spa therapy or massage
• hotel pickup from Tapovan or Rishikesh town
• use of swimming pool and ayurveda bar
• yoga and meditation sessions by toga guru
• village temple trek

While this isn't for the adventure seekers, visiting the Veda5 on a day trip is one of the best things to do in Rishikesh to unwind. However, this is a popular retreat and they limit the numbers, so it's best to book in advance.

Book: Veda5 Retreat Day Visit

20. Join the Best Walking Tour in Rishikesh

I'm a big fan of walking tours when I first get to a new city. It's one of the best ways to learn about the culture, the history, and discover the best spots and hidden gems.

In Rishikesh, you'll find tonnes of walking tours, since all the best highlights and attractions in Tapovan are within walking distance.

The best-rated walking tour is run by Yo Tours. It's super cheap and a great way to meet other travelers.

Book: Walking tour by Yo Tours

Where to Stay in Rishikesh

After spending a few weeks relaxing and experiencing all of the epic things to do and see in Rishikesh, I ended up staying at a few different hotels and hostels. The main thing to look for in Rishikesh is the location.

Many backpackers including myself recommend staying in the Tapovan area. There are so many things to do in Tapovan, since this is the main tourist area in Rishikesh. It doesn't matter too much whether you stay on the south side, or the north side, as everything is within walking distance.

My favorite hostel in Rishikesh: Live Free Hostel
After checking out a few hostels, Live Free definitely had the best vibe. Complete with a courtyard and comfortable rooms, there is also a big downstairs hangout area where they have group cooking activities and movie nights. There is also free morning yoga on the rooftop. Beds are also incredibly cheap, at less than $4 a night! However, when I booked, it was cheaper on Booking.com than on Hostelworld for this hostel for some reason.

Best budget private room: Hotel Yog
If you'd prefer to relax by yourself or as a couple, the Hotel Yog is one of the best budget hotels in the Tapovan area. Rooms are considered budget but are a little more expensive than the nearby hostels. However, at only around $20 a night for spacious rooms with mountain views, a continental breakfast and a rooftop terrace, you really can't go wrong.

Best-rated yoga resort: Rudram Hotel Yoga and Ayurveda Retreat
Looking to do a whole bunch of yoga in Rishikesh but still want to stay within the Tapovan area? This place offers yoga courses and free yoga sessions by the Ganges. The rooms are super comfortable and come with AC and mountain views.

More on Booking.com

Rishikesh Travel Resources

That wraps up the list of the best things to do in Rishikesh. If you're already here, or still planning your trip, consider reading the below tips for visiting before you click out. I guarantee you'll learn something!

How to Get to Rishikesh

Before you can jump into these epic activities and things to do in Rishikesh, you'll have to get here! Due to the relative proximity, most tourists visit Rishikesh either from Delhi or via a stopover.

Below are some of the best options for getting to Rishikesh by air, car, or bus.

By Bus
Overnight and long-distance buses are by far my favorite way to get from A to B in India. They're cheap, worry-free (mostly), and fairly comfortable. The best resources for booking buses in India include Redbus and Bookaway. Both have listings for small, private bus and transport companies to help you compare the best fares.

Note: If you're getting to Rishikesh by bus, you'll most likely be dropped at a bus station in Adarsh Gram, approximately 15 minutes from the popular Tapovan area. There are rickshaw drivers and Vikram drivers here waiting for tourist-loaded buses. Try not to be ripped off and pay no more than 350 rupees for the ride, which can be split.

By Train
If you choose the train route, you'll need to book a ticket to Haridwar and then forward to Rishikesh. Haridwar is well-connected to major hubs like Delhi, Varanasi, Rajasthan and Amritsar. However, there are only three slow trains from Haridwar to Rishikesh railway station daily. A better bet would be to book a train to Haridwar and continue to Rishikesh by bus.

By Plane
The most direct and fastest way to get to Rishikesh is just to fly. The nearest airport is Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport, which is 15 kilometers from Rishikesh. However, this airport only services flights from Delhi, so if you're anywhere else, you'll need to fly to Delhi first. If you choose to fly to Jolly Grant Airport, you can get a Vikram or rickshaw to Tapovan for 300-350 rupees.

When is the Best Time to Visit Rishikesh?

Rishikesh has three main seasons; Summer, winter, and the monsoon.

Monsoon months: July to September

Summer: March to May

Winter: October to February

The widely-accepted consensus is that the best time to visit Rishikesh is between the months of September to June. This avoids the monsoon months, where torrential rainfall is common.

These months offer the best adventure opportunity in Rishikesh, from safe whitewater rafting to pristine hiking conditions.

Also, note that April and May can also get a little hot. So, if you’re a bit shy of the heat, try visiting between September to March. March is also the time where the yoga festival kicks off, so this is easily the most popular time to visit Rishikesh.

How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Rishikesh?

Your travel budget will vary greatly depending on the things you do in Rishikesh and how you want to be accommodated. Below I've averaged the costs on both sides of the spectrum

Budget: $20 USD per day

Luxury: $200 USD per day

On average, I spent about $25 a day in Rishikesh including all of my food, accommodation, and adventure activities. However, this is an average amount. Some days where I just walked to waterfalls and sat in cafes, I spent less than $10. On the flip side, things like trekking tours and bungy jumps boosted that well above $60 a day.

However, I am conscious of the fact that I'm used to "budget" and "backpacking" travel. I stay in cheap shared dorm rooms, eat street food, and usually walk long stretches rather than paying for a lift. I choose to travel like this because I enjoy the simplicity of frugal travel.

Although, I do understand that other travelers get to spend less time exploring, and want to treat themselves. If that sounds like you, you could easily spend $200 a day on a fancy hotel, fine dining, and private tours.

How Many Days Should I stay in Rishikesh?

Since the beautiful city of Rishikesh has so much variety in terms of activities and things to see, recommending how long to spend here is difficult.

If you're visiting Rishikesh for adventures like hiking, waterfalls, or river rafting, I'd recommend staying here for at least a week.

For people looking for more spiritual things to do in Rishikesh including yoga and meditation retreats, it's popular to spend at least 2 weeks here. With that said, I met many people who were planning to spend a couple of days, and ended up staying months.

This city draws you in. And, with some of the best yoga schools and ashrams in the world, many people stay to do their yoga teacher's course or simply stay in a retreat.

Can You Eat Meat in Rishikesh?

Rishikesh is considered a "Holy City" in India. This means that the sale and consumption of meat and alcohol is forbidden. If you respect those customs, then you'll be rewarded with some of the best vegetarian food in the world.

However, I did notice that there were a couple of restaurants selling chicken on the menu. So, I'm guessing it's not widely policed.

Final Note: More Things to do in Rishikesh

Been through this list of fun things to do in Rishikesh and looking for more travel inspiration? Considering this Land of Gods is also a treasure trove of adventure sports, water sports, and adrenaline activities, you'd expect there to be even more!

Below are some more activities that you can do in this amazing adventure and yoga destination.

• Get an ayurvedic massage
• Go hot air ballooning - varies by season
• Mountain biking
• Visit Bharat Mandir Temple
• Visit the Ragunath Temple

More Things to do and See in India

I really hope that this comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Rishikesh has been useful in planning your adventures and itinerary. If you have any more suggestions that you feel deserve a spot on the list, leave me a comment and I'll gladly check it out during my next visit.

For more travel guides and adventure inspiration from India, take a pick from the list of posts below.

• 4 Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Pushkar
• Bahubali Hills Udaipur - Epic Lake Viewpoint
• Exploring Dada Harir Stepwell in Ahmedabad - India
• Jodhpur Stepwell, Toorji Ka Jhalra (Toorji's Step Well) in Jodhpur, Rajasthan
• Overnight Sleeper Buses in India - Best Way to Travel India on a Budget
• Things to do in Jodhpur in One Day - 1 Day Jodhpur Itinerary
• Training at HMI Darjeeling - (Himalayan Mountaineering Institute in India)
• Travel Packing List for India: What You Need to Bring On a Trip to India
• Varanasi Ganges River Boat Trip: Sunrise Morning Boat Ride - Complete Guide

The post 20 Best Things to do in Rishikesh, India – Ultimate 2023 Travel Guide appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Visiting waterfalls is undoubtedly not what draws most travelers to Rishikesh. Although it’s known more for its vibrant yoga scene and picturesque river views, I believe that Rishikesh is still an epic destination for adventure travelers.

In fact, Rishikesh’s natural beauty extends far from the banks of the Ganges and high into the forest-laden hills where epic hikes and waterfalls await.

In this blog post, I’ll outline the three best waterfalls in Rishikesh to visit on your next trip. I’ve also written individual posts for each waterfall to help you get more information on how to find them and what to expect.

The Ultimate India Travel Resource

Looking for more India travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for the trip of a lifetime.

• Ultimate 1 Month India Itinerary
• Essential India Packing List

The Best Adventure Tours in Rishikesh

Looking for adventures in Rishikesh after checkout out these awesome forest waterfalls? The below list will have you covered for an epic time in India’s adventure capital!

• Whitewater Rafting Rishikesh – Awesome Marine Drive rafting trip down grade 3+ rapids on the Ganges River.
• Camping Adventure Multi-Day Tour in Rishikesh – Top-rated overnight tour in Rishikesh and is one of the best ways to meet other travelers
• Kunjapuri Temple Trek – Guided hike from Rishikesh to the incredible Kanjapuri Temple at the feet of the Himalayas.

The Best Waterfalls in Rishikesh

Without further ado, let’s get into the three best waterfalls in Rishikesh.

I haven’t ranked these waterfalls in any particular order. This is due to the fact each waterfall is fairly different from the next. It will depend on what you prefer, whether it be a secluded hike or a thriving swimming hole.

1. Neer Garh Waterfall

Neer Garh waterfall is perhaps the most well-known waterfall in Rishikesh. Located on the hills above the northern banks of the Ganges River, this multi-tiered waterfall offers some of the deepest swimming holes, and some of the most scenic limestone falls on this list.

This waterfall is great if you’d prefer a bit of variety, as some of the “hidden” lower levels are usually secluded.

However, once you climb up the concrete and dirt paths to the upper tiers, you’ll find cafes and crowds of people enjoying the vibe.

It’s also possible to continue hiking past the top level and high into the hills above for great views of the surrounding mountainscape.

2. Garud Chatti Waterfall

The next two Rishikesh waterfalls on this list are both located on the southern banks of the Ganges. While Garud Chatti Waterfall, is less popular than Neer Garh waterfall, it certainly can still draw a crowd.

Luckily, there are several levels to explore after reaching the first waterfall following a 1.5KM hike into the Rajaji Forest. The two main tiers have shallow pools that are great for swimming and enjoying a fresh waterfall shower.

3. Patna Waterfall

Found just a short distance from Garud Chatti waterfall, Patna waterfall is a less impressive, but less visited waterfall near Rishikesh.

Patna waterfall is a tall, limestone waterfall that trickles gently down a steep cliffside and into a shallow pool below.

This waterfall doesn’t offer much in terms of swimming, but the short hike through the Rajaji Forest makes the trip worthwhile. If you’re looking for a waterfall near Rishikesh that offers quiet and scenic vibes, this one might be for you.

Where to Stay in Rishikesh for Waterfall Adventures

After spending a few weeks relaxing and experiencing all of the epic things to do and see in Rishikesh, I ended up staying at a few different hotels and hostels. The main thing to look for in Rishikesh is the location.

Many backpackers including myself recommend staying in the Tapovan area. There are so many things to do in Tapovan, since this is the main tourist area in Rishikesh. It doesn’t matter too much whether you stay on the south side, or the north side, as everything is within walking distance.

• My favorite hostel in Rishikesh: Live Free Hostel – After checking out a few hostels, Live Free definitely had the best vibe. Complete with a courtyard and comfortable rooms, there is also a big downstairs hangout area where they have group cooking activities, rooftop yoga, and movie nights.
• Best budget private room: Hotel Yog – If you’d prefer to relax by yourself or as a couple, the Hotel Yog is one of the best budget hotels in the Tapovan area. Rooms are considered budget but are a little more expensive than the nearby hostels. However, at only around $20 a night for spacious rooms with mountain views, a continental breakfast and a rooftop terrace, you really can’t go wrong.
• Best-rated yoga resort: Rudram Hotel Yoga and Ayurveda Retreat – Looking to do a whole bunch of yoga in Rishikesh but still want to stay within the Tapovan area? This place offers yoga courses and free yoga sessions by the Ganges. The rooms are super comfortable and come with AC and mountain views.

More on Booking.com

Best Time to Go Waterfall Chasing in Rishikesh

Rishikesh has three main seasons; Summer, winter, and the monsoon.

Monsoon months: July to September

Summer: March to May

Winter: October to February

The general consensus is that the best time to visit Rishikesh is between the months of September to June. This avoids the monsoon months, where torrential rainfall is common. Typically, waterfalls are overflowing, tracks are muddy, and white water rafting is not really possible.

Also, note that April and May can also get a little hot. So, if you’re a bit shy of the heat, try visiting between September to March. March is also the time where the yoga festival kicks off, so this is easily the most popular time to visit Rishikesh.

Getting To The Rishikesh Waterfalls

It’s possible to walk to all of the falls listed above from the Laxman Jhula bridge in the Tapovan district of Rishikesh. I’ve listed detailed directions and hiking information on the individual blog posts, so you shouldn’t have any problem finding them.

However, if you’re not too keen on walking, you can rent a scooter for around 350-500 IR per day, or a Royal Enfield for about 1500 IR.

Alternatively, there are rickshaw drivers in Rishikesh that can take you the short journey to the waterfall treks for 150-250 each way.

More India Travel Guides and Blogs

I hope that this quick and easy guide to the top three waterfalls in Rishikesh has motivated you to get out and explore this incredible destination. For more travel guides and blogs, including itineraries and individual trips on your trip to India, make sure to check out the list below.

Otherwise, a good place to start for more ideas in Rishikesh is this guide to the Best Things to do in Rishikesh.

• 4 Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Pushkar
• Exploring Dada Harir Stepwell in Ahmedabad – India
• Hiking to Neer Garh Waterfall, Rishikesh
• Overnight Sleeper Buses in India – Best Way to Travel India on a Budget
• Savitri Temple Pushkar – Best Viewpoint In Pushkar

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The Northern Indian state of Rajasthan is widely known for vast forts and beautiful, intricately designed structures and monuments. If you’re exploring the enchanting city of Jaipur, then chances are you’ve heard of the famous Jaipur Step Well near the Amer Fort.

In this quick guide, I’ll detail how to get to Jaipur Stepwell and include some photos that I hope will inspire your visit.

About the Panna Meena Ka Kund Stepwell in Jaipur

The Jaipur Stepwell in Amer is a square-design well (baori, or baoli) with eight levels of diamond-shaped, crisscrossing steps leading down to a deep, green pool of water.

The Jaipur stepwell was built by Maharaja Jai Singh in the 16th century to provide an ingenious method of preserving rainwater from the seasonal monsoons. This enabled the citizens of Amer to access freshwater during the dry season and served as a central gathering place for people in the community.

The design of Panna Meena Ka Kund is impressive, to say the least.

This practical stepwell design features an array of symmetrical steps above rounded alcoves that enable access to the well water, no matter the water level. Although it's rarely used today, the beauty of the design attracts many visitors keen on snapping a shot with the stepwell backdrop.

Related: 7 Best Jaipur Viewpoints to Watch the Sunset

Where is the Jaipur Stepwell (Panna Meena Ka Kund)?

The famous stepwell near Jaipurl is actually located near the Kheri Gate in Amer, just a short walk from the Amer Fort. Contrary to conventional first impressions, the Jaipur Stepwell is not within the fort grounds, so visiting it is free.

However, since the stepwell is so close to the Amer Fort, combining it with a trip to the fort or famous Jaipur Wall is a great bet.

For convenience, I've pinned the exact location of the Jaipur Stepwell below. You can also plug the pin into your Google Maps app to help you navigate. Otherwise, I've also written detailed directions below.

Google Maps Pin: "Step Well" (You can search "Jaipur Stepwell")

How to Get to the Jaipur Stepwell

To get to the Jaipur Stepwell, you'll first need to make your way to the Amer Fort, located just 12 kilometers north of Jaipur Junction. For directions to the fort, I've listed the options and prices below.

Once you arrive at the car park just beside the moat opposite the fort entrance, you'll need to walk for about 15-20 minutes to get to the stepwell. Alternatively, there are many rickshaw drivers hanging out at the car park who would be more than happy to give you a ride.

If you'd prefer to walk, continue down Amer Road for a bit more than the moat's length and turn left at the Gandhi Chowk intersection. Continue on this quiet road for 200 meters before turning right, just past the Ganesh Temple. The Jaipur Stepwell is located just 100 meters up the road. If you have any problems finding it, the Amer locals will point you in the right direction.

The Ultimate India Travel Resource

Looking for more India travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for the trip of a lifetime.

• Ultimate 1 Month India Itinerary
• Essential India Packing List

How To Get to the Jaipur Fort

If you're not yet at the Amer Fort, the below options will get you there.

Rickshaw: You can pick up a rickshaw pretty much anywhere in Jaipur to take you to Amer Fort. Expect to pay around 200-250 rupees for the one-way trip. Most Rickshaw drivers will probably try to talk you into a tour once you’re there.

Uber: Using Uber to get from A to B is a good option for reliable and cheap transport. The cost from Jaipur to Amer is usually between 250-350 rupees one-way.

Amer Fort tour including Jaipur Stepwell + transfer: If you’d prefer a guided tour to Amer Fort, this walking tour with rickshaw transfer is a good bet for around $19 USD. This trip includes hotel pick-up/drop-off, an English-speaking guide at the fort, and a stop-by at the famous Panna Meena Stepwell (Jaipur Stepwell).

Bus to Amer Fort: There are regular buses that depart from the Hawa Mahal in the Old City. These only cost 15 rupees each-way, or 25 rupees for an air-conditioned bus. This is the best option for travelers on a budget.

Rent a motorbike: This is probably the least popular option for travelers in Jaipur. However, if you’re keen to explore the forts on the outskirts, you can save a bit of money by renting a motorbike or scooter. Expect to pay between 300-400 rupees per day for the cheapest motorbike rental.

Related: Exploring Dada Harir Stepwell in Ahmedabad – India

What to Expect At the Jaipur Baoli

The Panna Meena Ka Kund stepwell is a little different from many of the other popular and grandiose stepwells in Rajasthan.

This Jaipur Stepwell is much smaller and surprisingly, quite remote. Although being a staple of Rajasthani-travel social media feeds, there wasn't even a single other tourists here when I visited in peak season.

Upon arriving, I'm sure you'll meet the lone guard that patrols the Panna Meena Ka Kund stepwell. Some other blogs written a few years back claimed that it was free to walk down the steps to take photos and explore. Unfortunately, the guard on duty now forbids anybody from stepping down without a "permit".

However, I was told by another traveler that it's possible to bribe this guard 150-200 rupees for him to grant you permission to explore. I chose not to bribe him and instead snap some photos from the top steps. If you do, let me know how it goes!

To speak honestly, when I first arrived at the Jaipur Stepwell, I was a little underwhelmed. However, don't get me wrong, it certainly wasn't disappointing and, I'd definitely visit again.

Rather, my elevated expectations were due to confusion between the Jaipur Stepwell and the Chand Baori in neighboring Abhaneri. Both stepwells feature the same arrays of pyramidic steps and share a very similar archeological design. However, Chand Baori is a much larger stepwell with a total of 3500 steps!

More Highlights in Jaipur & Rajasthan

I hope that this quick guide for how to get to the Jaipur Stepwell (Panna Meena Ka Kund) was useful. If you have any questions, updates, or feedback for this blog post, please let me know in the comments!

Otherwise, why don't you check out some of the other adventures and ideas for things to do in Rajasthan on the list below?

• 2-Day Camel Safari In Jaisalmer - Everything You Need to Know
• 4 Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Pushkar
• 7 Best Jaipur Viewpoints - Where to Go for Jaipur Sunset Views
• Bahubali Hills Udaipur - Epic Lake Viewpoint
• Exploring Dada Harir Stepwell in Ahmedabad - India
• Exploring the Jaipur Wall Near Amer Fort, Rajasthan
• Gadisar Lake Jaisalmer - Rajasthan Travel Guide
• Jaisalmer Fort in Rajasthan: Travel Guide and Photos From the Sonar Quila
• Jodhpur Stepwell, Toorji Ka Jhalra (Toorji's Step Well) in Jodhpur, Rajasthan
• Overnight Sleeper Buses in India - Best Way to Travel India on a Budget
• Savitri Temple Pushkar - Best Viewpoint In Pushkar
• Where to Find the Blue City in Jodhpur - Rajasthan, India 2023

The post How to Get to the Jaipur Stepwell in 2023: Panna Meena Ka Kund – Rajasthan appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Legend has it that if you ever lose something in India’s most populous city, you can buy it back at the Chor Bazaar.

Located deep in the concrete labyrinth of Mumbai’s historic streets lies a fascinating flea market known as Mumbai’s Thieves Market. While it might sound like a secret, underground network, the Chor Bazaar is open to the Mumbai public and to tourists.

When I set out to find Mumbai's renowned Thieves Market, I wasn't looking for stolen trinkets or counterfeits. I had read much about its unique history and I was itching to explore and photograph this unique phenomenon. In this post, I'll be telling the story of Mumbai's Chor Bazaar through my lens, while also including some details to help you find it yourself.

Looking for ideas for your trip to India? You might also want to check out this comprehensive India Packing List to find out what you should bring and what you shouldn't! Also, I've written a very comprehensive 1 Month India Itinerary that covers an epic, fast-paced travel route as well as a bunch of information and tips that will prove useful in planning your trip!

About the Chor Bazaar: Thieves Market in Mumbai

As with the majority of renowned local legends, there are a number of theories as to how the story of the Chor Bazaar began. One theory is that Queen Victoria's violin had dissappeared while being unloaded from her ship during her visit to Bombay. Of course, the violin, along with several other items turned up at the "Thieves Market".

Another intriguing origin story, albeit without the climatic theatrics, tells a familiar tale of mistaken identity. Apparently, the Chor Bazaar was initially known as the Shor Bazaar, revealing to the noisy nature of the area. The case of mistaken identity originated from the inability of the smug British colonialists to pronounce the name correctly, citing "chor" rather than the correct "shor". And from thereon, the name stuck. Opportunistic burglars accepted the new name and subsequently built a central hub to distribute their stolen goods under an official, British delegated bazaar for thieves.

Today, sources claim that the Thieves Market in Mumbai is now mainly just a vintage goods market. However, after personally witnessing some of the dubious wares on offer, I'm skeptical.

Whether you're looking to pick up a five-finger-discount bargain, or simply explore, the Chor Bazaar in Mumbai is a worthwhile attraction. It's also a great place for intrigued visitors and passionate photographers looking to snap some clicks of one of India's largest and most unique flea markets. Just watch your pockets.

Nearest Railway Station to the Chor Bazaar

Arguably, the fastest way to get to the Chor Bazaar using public transport is to take the well-connected Mumbai railway system. The closest railway station to the Chor Bazaar Thieves Market is Grant Road station.

• Google Maps Pin: "Chor Bazar - Old and new items"

From here, it's just a very quick dart to the bazaar.

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Photos of My Experience at the Chor Bazaar

Initially, I had some trouble finding the elusive Thieves Market in Mumbai. As I surveyed the narrow bitumen streets in search of any evidence of stolen wares, I received mixed signals, from piercing glances to familiar smirks.

Perhaps my shifting neck, elongated like a distressed mother hen, gave off the impression that I was the dubious character in town. Or, perhaps Mumbai knew where I was heading, providing no assistance under the assurance that I would eventually find myself within the infamous bazaar.

As I wandered, I unintentionally approached what seemed to be a shrine dedicated to an automobile deity of sorts. Engine belts from every era hung from makeshift structures piled on a tower of bonnets, rear-view mirrors, and car radio antenna systems with ripped-out cables still loosely joined.

"This must be it!" I thought to myself as I quickly snuck past the lofty cache of pilfered car parts.

I quickly realized that the honest, and the not-so-honest salesmen and marketeers of the Chor Bazaar were accustomed to strangers strolling through their little slice of underworld Mumbai.

With eager willingness, and sometimes, with apathetic assent I would receive a trained head wobble of approval as I photographed the men of the Chor Bazaar. It was an accustomed choreography, one that had played out thousands of times prior to my shutter.

It was as if the thieves of Bombay were playing a familiar role in a Bollywood film, posing with their wares in front of their scattered storefronts.

Wending my way deeper into the bazaar of thieves, I shifted my attention from the faces to their merchandise. I unearthed everything from dusty, vintage posters of Hindu muscle-men to Nokia-era cell phones - all of which I knew had a story of their own to have their way to Mumbai's Chor Bazaar.

The Ultimate India Travel Resource

Looking for more India travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for the trip of a lifetime.

• Ultimate 1 Month India Itinerary
• Essential India Packing List

More Blogs and Guides to Travel in India

I hope that this quick photojournal/travel guide to the Chor Bazaar Mumbai has inspired you to visit one of Mumbai's most fascinating attractions. If you find your way to Mumbai's Thieves Market, let me know about your eperience.

Otherwise, for those traveling in India, make sure to check out some of my other travel guides and blog posts to inspire some more ideas and attractions to visit!

• 16 Best Things to do in Rishikesh For the Adventure Traveler
• 2-Day Overnight Camel Safari Jaisalmer - Everything You Need to Know
• 7 Best Jaipur Viewpoints - Where to Go for Jaipur Sunset Views
• 7 Best Taj Mahal View Point Locations in Agra, India 2023
• India Itinerary 1 Month Journey - Best Things to do in India in 2023
• Overnight Sleeper Buses in India - Best Way to Travel India on a Budget
• Travel Packing List for India: What You Need to Bring On a Trip to India
• Varanasi Ganges River Boat Trip: Sunrise Morning Boat Ride - Complete Guide
• Where to Find the Blue City in Jodhpur - Rajasthan, India

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