My India Itinerary – Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Osian, Ranakpur, Udaipur and Mumbai

India is a land that effortlessly blends ancient traditions with modern life. With its diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, rich history, and an unparalleled tapestry of cultures, it offers something unique for every kind of traveller. Whether you’re wandering through royal palaces in Rajasthan, savouring the street food in Mumbai, or finding peace in sacred temples, India promises unforgettable experiences at every turn.

For me, travelling through India has always felt like more than just a holiday — it’s a deeply personal journey, filled with moments of discovery, connection, and awe. On this trip, I had the incredible opportunity to retrace my ancestral roots while experiencing some of India’s most iconic and enchanting destinations, from the bustling capital of Delhi to the romantic lakes of Udaipur.

In this travel guide, I share the highlights of my bespoke journey across Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur and Mumbai — with insider tips, cultural insights and, of course, plenty of delicious food along the way.

First Stop: Delhi – A Taste of the Capital

Our journey began in New Delhi, where we stayed at the elegant Claridges Hotel, a tranquil oasis amidst the hustle and bustle. My friend Priyam and I explored the city’s diverse food and transport scene — including a trip on the Delhi Metro, where the women-only carriage offered a safer and more comfortable ride.

One of our must-visits was Karim’s near Jama Masjid — an iconic spot famed for its melt-in-the-mouth kebabs and Mughlai dishes. Delhi’s food scene is legendary, and this was the perfect start to our culinary adventures.

Jaipur – The Pink City of Palaces

From Delhi, we travelled by car to Jaipur, stopping en route at the majestic Samode Palace for lunch. I highly recommend this detour — the palace is rich in heritage and the food is exquisite.

In Jaipur, we splurged on a stay at the Rambagh Palace, run by the Taj Group. This former royal residence is now a heritage hotel with opulent rooms, manicured gardens, and regal service. It was truly one of the most memorable places I’ve stayed.

While in Jaipur, we explored:

• Patrika Gate – Instagram-perfect and architecturally stunning

• City Palace and Jantar Mantar – historical and scientific marvels

• Amer Fort – rich with Rajput history and panoramic views

• Traditional block printing – a fascinating insight into Rajasthan’s textile heritage

• Kachoris – a delicious local snack that’s an absolute must-try

You can read my full Jaipur guide here: Jaipur Travel Guide – What to see and do in The Pink City of Rajasthan 

Jodhpur – Tracing My Ancestral Roots in the Blue City

We took an early morning train from Jaipur to Jodhpur, a five-hour journey that, while scenic, was a bit rough around the edges — particularly the facilities. Next time, I’d opt for a private car for more comfort.

Once in Jodhpur, we used a free afternoon to visit Osian, a town known as the Gateway to the Thar Desert, where my community originated. We visited the serene Jain temples, connected with a local priest, and walked through the village, observing life as it continues much the same as it has for centuries.

Other highlights in Jodhpur included:

• The iconic Mehrangarh Fort – a towering symbol of Marwar royalty

• Jaswant Thada – a stunning white marble cenotaph

• Toorji Ka Jhalra (stepwell) – beautifully restored and atmospheric

• Wandering the lanes of the Blue City, awash with cobalt walls and lively bazaars

• Lunch at Umaid Bhawan Palace, part-residence, part-hotel, and famously the wedding venue of Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas (they do have a minimum spend of ₹6000 per person for lunch, but it’s well worth it for a special occasion)

You can read about it here: Retracing my Ancestral Roots in Osian – “The Gateway to the Thar Desert”

Udaipur – The Romantic Lake City

From Jodhpur, we drove to Udaipur, making a memorable stop at the Ranakpur Jain Temple, known for its stunning marble architecture and 1,444 intricately carved pillars — no two the same.

Udaipur, often called the Venice of the East, welcomed us with its romantic charm and regal beauty. We enjoyed a peaceful boat ride on Lake Pichola, starting at Rameshwar Ghat and stopping at Jag Mandir Island, where you can visit the island palace.

Other must-sees in Udaipur include:

• City Palace – the largest palace in Rajasthan, boasting breathtaking views and ornate design

• Saheliyon Ki Bari – the Garden of the Maidens, with lotus ponds and playful fountains

• Amet Haveli – our hotel, which had picturesque views of the lake and a renowned in-house restaurant serving delicious Rajasthani fare