1-Month North India Travel Plan. India is incredibly diverse, with each region offering something unique. While places like Delhi, Rajasthan’s forts and palaces, and Rishikesh are well-known, much of North India remains lesser-known. This itinerary showcases the top destinations to visit.
North India stretches from the foothills to the towering peaks of the Himalayas, offering breathtaking scenery. But it’s not just about the mountains—you’ll also experience Tibetan culture in Ladakh, visit the sacred Golden Temple in Amritsar, and explore historic mosques in Kashmir.
If you’ve got a month to travel, this itinerary takes you on a round trip from Delhi through the Himalayas and back. It’s a true adventure, with long drives, off-the-beaten-path spots, and plenty of warm hospitality.
Getting to Know North India: Where Is It?
“North India” can mean different things, depending on who you ask. It usually includes Delhi, Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Uttar Pradesh, and Chandigarh.
But for this itinerary, we’ll be focusing mainly on the northern Himalayan states—those located above Delhi. So, places like Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan aren’t included here.
With a full month, you can comfortably explore these scenic mountain regions. They also share a similar climate, which distinguishes them from the hotter, drier areas, such as Rajasthan.
North India Travel: When to Go
The best time to visit North India depends on the regions you plan to explore. For mountain areas like Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Ladakh, the ideal time is between May and October. During these months, the roads are open, the weather is pleasant, and most trekking routes and attractions are accessible. That’s why this itinerary is designed for travel in this summer window.
However, other parts of North India—like Delhi, Punjab, and Uttarakhand—experience hot, humid, and rainy monsoon weather during this time. While you may face some heat and rain, it’s a trade-off for the chance to explore the stunning Himalayan regions.
Tip: Pack for a mix of climates—light clothes for hot cities and warm layers for the cool mountains.
Navigating North India: A Travel Guide
Simplified and Rephrased Text:
Public transport is available throughout most of North India, even in remote mountain areas. Buses and shared taxis can get you to places that seem difficult to reach.
Train services are limited in the northern mountain regions. You can take trains from Delhi to cities like Srinagar, Amritsar, and Rishikesh, but beyond those points, you’ll mostly rely on buses and shared taxis. While trains don’t run into the high mountains, buses are usually dependable. Some routes can be booked online through apps like RedBus, while others require buying tickets at the station.
Keep in mind that the roads in Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh can be tough—steep, narrow, and sometimes unpaved. Travel can be long and challenging, but the views are absolutely breathtaking. It’s all part of the adventure!
North India Itinerary: How Many Days Do You Need?
This itinerary is designed for one month in North India, but if you have more time, you can easily extend your trip. Spending extra days in places like Dharamshala, Leh, Manali, or Rishikesh would be ideal. If you have a couple more weeks, you could even add Rajasthan to your journey.
If you only have two weeks, there are still great options. One option is to visit Delhi, Amritsar, Dharamshala, Manali, and Rishikesh, then return to Delhi. While this skips the higher Himalayan areas, it still offers a rich taste of North India.
Alternatively, if you want to focus on the mountains, you could travel from Delhi to Amritsar, then go on to Srinagar, Leh, Manali, and back to Delhi. This skips some of the more touristy spots, but lets you experience the stunning landscapes of the Himalayas.
1-Month North India Itinerary: Explore the Indian Himalayas
This one-month itinerary involves quite a bit of travel, including some long drives, but that’s all part of the adventure in the Indian Himalayas. If you enjoy road trips, you’ll love it! And if you have extra time, adding a few rest days along the way will help break up the journey and give you time to relax.
Here’s a quick overview of the suggested 1-month North India itinerary:
- Delhi – 2 days
- Amritsar – 2 days
- Dharamshala – 2 days
- Jammu – 1 day
- Srinagar – 3 days
- Aru Valley – 2 days
- Leh – 7 days
- Manali – 2 days
- Kaza – 3 days
- Shimla – 2 days
- Rishikesh – 2 days
- Delhi (return) – 1 day
This route gives you a great mix of culture, nature, spirituality, and adventure—all set against the stunning backdrop of the Himalayas.
2 Days in Delhi
How to Get There:
Fly into Indira Gandhi International Airport, the main gateway to India’s capital.
Where to Stay:
- Budget: Madpackers Hostel – South Delhi – Highly rated for its cleanliness, community feel, and helpful staff
- Mid-Range: Bloomrooms @ Janpath – Excellent value for money, central location, very clean with modern amenities
- Luxury: The Imperial New Delhi – An Iconic heritage hotel with colonial-era architecture
Where to Eat:
- Gulati Restaurant – Known for rich North Indian and Mughlai dishes.
- Kerala House Canteen – Government-run canteen serving homestyle Kerala meals
Many travelers pass through Delhi quickly, but it’s worth staying for at least two days. Yes, it can be noisy and overwhelming, but Delhi is also full of life, culture, and history. It’s a great place to get your first taste of India.
What to See and Do in 2 Days:
- Old Delhi & Chandni Chowk:
Explore the historic heart of the city. Expect narrow lanes, buzzing markets, and some of the best street food around. - Red Fort:
A stunning Mughal fort with grand architecture and a small museum. It’s one of Delhi’s most iconic landmarks. - Jama Masjid:
The largest mosque in Delhi, offering incredible views from its minaret. It’s surrounded by street food stalls and local eateries. - Connaught Place:
A central shopping area filled with stores, restaurants, and cafés, all set in colonial-era architecture. - India Gate:
A massive war memorial honoring Indian soldiers from World War I. It’s especially beautiful when lit up at night. - Humayun’s Tomb:
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, with peaceful gardens and beautiful structures. - Lodi Gardens:
A tranquil park ideal for a walk or picnic, dotted with historic tombs and lush greenery.
2 Days in Amritsar
Getting There:
Take an overnight train or bus from Delhi — the journey takes around 8 to 9 hours.
Where to Stay:
- Budget: Backpackers Nest – clean, social, and great for budget travelers
- Mid-range: Hotel Urban Galaxy – comfortable and well-located near major sights
- Luxury: WelcomHeritage Ranjitvilas – heritage-style hotel with elegant rooms and top-notch service
Where to Eat:
- Golden Temple Langar: Free vegetarian meals served all day to everyone—don’t miss this unique experience
- Kesar Da Dhaba: A century-old local favorite known for authentic Punjabi food
About Amritsar:
Amritsar is famous for the Golden Temple, the most sacred site in Sikhism. This stunning gold-covered shrine sits on a peaceful pool of water and is open to everyone, free of charge. Just remember to cover your head (scarves are available at the entrance, or you can bring your own).
A couple of hours is enough to explore the temple and enjoy a meal at the Langar, the world’s largest community kitchen serving thousands daily.
Suppose you have more time, head to the Wagah Border Ceremony. Every evening, Indian and Pakistani border guards perform a dramatic flag-lowering ceremony full of marching, music, and national pride. It’s loud, theatrical, and unforgettable. You can hire a taxi or join a group tour to get there.
2 Days in Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj
Getting There:
You can catch a morning HRTC government bus from Amritsar. The journey takes around 7 hours
Where to Stay:
- Budget: Zostel McLeod Ganj – a popular choice with clean dorms and a social vibe
- Mid-range: The Bunker Hostel Dharamkot – peaceful location with great views and cozy private rooms
Where to Eat:
- Moonpeak Espresso Café – a cozy spot with local Himachali and Tibetan dishes
- Shiva Café – a laid-back place near Bhagsu waterfall, loved for its chill vibe and simple meals
About Dharamshala / McLeod Ganj:
Dharamshala is a scenic hill town in Himachal Pradesh, located at the base of the Himalayas. It’s often called “Little Lhasa” because the Dalai Lama lives here, and many Tibetan refugees have made it their home.
The area includes McLeod Ganj, Bhagsu, and Dharamkot—all close to each other. The main bus station is in lower Dharamshala, but most travelers take a taxi up to McLeod Ganj or stay even further in Dharamkot or Bhagsu for a quieter, more relaxed vibe.
Bhagsu and Dharamkot are popular with backpackers and wellness seekers, offering yoga classes, meditation centers, and relaxed cafes with stunning views of the mountains.
Top Things to Do in Dharamshala:
- Visit the Dalai Lama Temple Complex
- Explore the Tibetan Museum to learn about Tibetan history
- Walk to Bhagsu Waterfall and chill at nearby cafes
- Enjoy panoramic views from Naddi Viewpoint
- Take a day hike to Triund for epic Himalayan scenery
- Try different cafes and enjoy fresh local and international food
Jammu – 1 Day Stopover
Getting There:
Catch an HRTC government bus from Dharamshala in the morning. The ride takes around 7 to 8 hours.
Where to Stay (if needed):
- Mid-range: Hotel Green Mint Jammu – clean, basic, and conveniently located for transit travelers
Quick Travel Tip:
If you’re up for it, consider catching an overnight bus to Srinagar after reaching Jammu in the afternoon. It makes for a long travel day, but it saves time, and there’s not much to see in Jammu for most travelers. Accommodation options are also limited, so unless you’re too tired, continuing to Srinagar is a smart move.
3 Days in Srinagar
How to Get There:
Take an overnight bus from Jammu, usually leaving between 8–9 PM, and arrive in Srinagar the next morning.
Where to Stay:
- Backpackers: The Shelter Group of Houseboats – affordable, social, and great Dal Lake views
- Budget: Hotel New Green View – cozy rooms near the lake with friendly service
- Mid-range: New Jacquline Heritage Houseboats – a peaceful stay with traditional charm on the water
Where to Eat:
- Ahdoos Restaurant – a well-known spot for authentic Kashmiri and Mughlai cuisine
- Dana Pani Point – a busy, budget-friendly veg eatery known for North Indian thalis and quick service
About Srinagar:
Srinagar feels like a world apart from the rest of India. With its serene Dal Lake, surrounding mountains, and rich culture, the city has a peaceful charm. Many travelers stay on traditional houseboats, a unique and memorable experience.
One of the best things to do here is take a Shikara ride on Dal Lake, especially early in the morning, to catch the floating vegetable market. It’s a quiet, beautiful experience.
Three days give you plenty of time to explore:
- Mughal Gardens like Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh
- Historic mosques and shrines in the old city
- Hari Parbat Fort for views and history
- Local markets to shop for spices, pashmina, and handmade crafts
- Enjoy chatting with locals—Kashmiris are warm and welcoming, with fascinating stories to share
2 Days in Aru Valley
How to Get There:
Take a shared taxi from Srinagar to Pahalgam (about 3 hours), then hop on another shared taxi to Aru Valley (under 1 hour).
Where to Stay:
- Budget: Milkyway Guest House – simple, clean, and family-run with warm local hospitality
- Mid-range: The Woods Resort Aru – peaceful stay with wooden cottages and beautiful views
Why Visit Aru Valley:
Before heading to Ladakh, it’s worth seeing the lush, green mountains of Kashmir. Unlike the dry landscapes farther north, Aru Valley is filled with forests, meadows, and snow-capped peaks that feel more like Switzerland than India.
Located east of Srinagar, Aru is quiet and remote, with just a handful of guesthouses and camps. It’s perfect for relaxing in nature, taking short hikes, and enjoying peaceful mountain views.
If you’re tight on time, you could stop at Sonamarg instead (on the way to Leh), which also offers great scenery. But Aru Valley is less touristy and feels more authentic, with better hiking options in summer.
7 days in Leh, Ladakh
How to Get There:
Take a bus or shared taxi from Srinagar. The journey takes around 12–14 hours, but the mountain views are stunning and totally worth it.
Where to Stay:
- Budget: Leh Zostel – modern backpacker hostel with a social vibe
- Mid-range: Gomang Boutique Hotel – peaceful, well-rated stay with great views
Where to Eat:
- Tsas by Dolkhar – Delicious plant-based dishes with unique flavors and texture
- The Tibetan Kitchen – The Tibetan Kitchen in Leh is known for its cozy vibe, traditional decor, and warm hospitality. Their freshly made momos—both vegetarian and non-vegetarian—are full of flavor and highly recommended.
Why Spend a Week in Leh:
Leh is high up in the Himalayas at 3,500m, so it’s a good idea to take it slow at first to adjust to the altitude. Spend your first couple of days exploring the local market, Leh Palace, and the Central Asian Museum, and relaxing in cafes.
Once you’re used to the altitude, plan a day trip to Thiksey and Hemis Monasteries – both are beautiful and give you a taste of Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Then, take a 3-4 day tour to Nubra Valley, Hunder, Diskit, and Pangong Lake. If you have time, add Turtuk, a scenic village near the Pakistan border. You can go with a private driver or join a shared tour – they run daily from May to September.
Manali – 2 Days
How to Get There:
Take a government bus or shared taxi from Leh. The journey takes about 14–16 hours, offering incredible views through the mountains.
Where to Stay:
- Budget: The Hosteller Manali – a fun and social hostel in Old Manali
- Mid-range: Hotel Mountain Abode – cozy rooms with scenic views and good service
Where to Eat:
- Cafe 1947 – riverside cafe in Old Manali serving Indian and Italian dishes
- Rasta Cafe – relaxed spot with vegetarian and vegan options, great for breakfast and coffee
Why Visit Manali:
No North India trip is complete without visiting Manali. Once a quiet mountain village, it’s now a lively town split between New Manali (the main town with the bus stand and Mall Road) and Old Manali, where most travellers stay.
Old Manali is perfect for relaxing, with its peaceful vibe, cafes, and local shops. But if you’re up for exploring, here are some easy spots to visit:
- Manu Temple – a peaceful Hindu temple in Old Manali
- Hadimba Devi Temple – surrounded by tall deodar trees, this wooden temple is one of the most famous in town
- Jogini Waterfall – a short hike from Vashisht village, great for a half-day outing
Kaza, Spiti Valley – 3 Days
How to Get There:
Take a shared taxi or government bus from Manali, which takes around 10–12 hours. The journey goes through the Atal Tunnel and then continues on a bumpy road, crossing rivers and the high-altitude Kunzum Pass (4,500m).
Where to Stay:
- Budget: Zostel Spiti – social hostel with dorms and private rooms, great for meeting other travelers
- Mid-range: Spiti Heritage Inn – peaceful stay with local hospitality and great mountain views
Where to Eat:
- The Himalayan Cafe – a cozy spot with local Spitian and Tibetan meals
- Taste of Spiti – serves traditional food made with locally sourced ingredients, run by a women’s collective
Why Visit Kaza:
Spiti Valley offers some of the rawest and rugged landscapes in North India. It’s remote, quiet, and surrounded by jaw-dropping views. The route is rough, but well worth the effort if you’re up for the adventure.
Expect dry, high-altitude desert views, monasteries perched on cliffs, and tiny villages that feel frozen in time. Spend your time here soaking in the scenery and visiting places like:
- Key Monastery – the largest monastery in Spiti, located on a hill with stunning views
- Langza Village – known for ancient fossils and the giant Buddha statue
- Hikkim – home to one of the highest post offices in the world
- Komic – claimed to be the highest motorable village on Earth
Optional Stop:
If you’re taking a private taxi or tour from Manali, consider staying one night at Chandratal Lake on the way. The turquoise lake is surrounded by dramatic peaks and makes for an unforgettable camping experience.
Exploring Kaza and Around
The good news is that after spending time in Ladakh, arriving in Kaza at 3,650 m shouldn’t be too hard on your body. You’re already used to the high altitude, so you can start exploring right away.
Spend at least 3 days in Kaza to enjoy the area:
- Day 1: Take it easy and explore Kaza town. Visit the main monastery and try some local dishes at places like Cafe Piti or The Himalayan Cafe.
- Day 2: Book a day trip by taxi to visit the surrounding villages—Komik, Hikkim, Langza, Kibber, and the stunning Key Monastery. These are some of the highest inhabited villages in the world, and each has its unique beauty.
- Day 3: Use this day for another short trip. You can go to Pin Valley to see a lush green contrast to the desert terrain, or head to Tabo or Nako. Both towns are on the way to Shimla, so they’re good stopovers before moving on.
If you’re short on time, staying overnight in Tabo or Nako works well as your final night in Spiti before continuing your journey.