10 Common India Travel Itinerary Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
Planning your first trip to India can feel overwhelming. With so much to see and do, it’s easy to make mistakes that could leave you stressed or exhausted.
Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here’s how to avoid the 10 most common itinerary mistakes so you can have a smoother, more enjoyable journey.
1. Trying to See Too Much in Too Little Time
The Mistake:
You’ve got two weeks, so you want to visit Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Goa, Kerala, Varanasi, and the Himalayas—right? But cramming all this in will only leave you exhausted.
The Fix:
Pick one or two regions! Focus on North India (Golden Triangle + Rajasthan) or South India (Kerala, Tamil Nadu), but don’t try to do everything. A balanced 2-week itinerary could look like:
Udaipur or Jodhpur (3 days)
2. Underestimating Travel Times
The Mistake:
Thinking Delhi to Varanasi is a quick 3-hour journey? Think again. Distances in India can be deceptive, and travel times are often much longer than expected.
The Fix:
Research travel times properly! Use Google Maps and check train schedules on the IRCTC website. Build in buffer days in case of delays.
3. Ignoring Seasons and Festivals
The Mistake:
Visiting Rajasthan in summer (45°C) or Goa during the monsoon can seriously impact your experience. Or, worse, you’ll miss out on accommodation during a major festival like Diwali.
The Fix:
Plan around the best seasons for each region:
North India: October to March
South India: November to February
Goa: November to March (after monsoon)
The Himalayas: April to June & September to October
The Mistake:
Your schedule is packed with back-to-back sightseeing. By day 5, you’ll be drained.
The Fix:
Schedule rest days! Take at least one break every few days to recharge. Sleep in, have a lazy breakfast, or just wander without a plan.
5. Booking Everything in Advance
The Mistake:
You’ve booked every hotel and train ticket, leaving no room for flexibility. But what if you hear about a hidden gem that wasn’t in your itinerary?
The Fix:
Book the first few nights and long-distance travel, but leave space for spontaneity. This way, you can change plans and explore new places if something exciting comes up!
6. Sticking to Tourist Hotspots
The Mistake:
You’re visiting all the classic spots like Delhi, Agra, and Goa, but you’re missing out on quieter, less touristy places.
The Fix:
Mix it up with off-the-beaten-path destinations! Explore places like Hampi, Pushkar, Rishikesh, or Mcleod Ganj for a more authentic experience.
7. Not Researching Local Customs
The Mistake:
You show up to a temple in shorts and a tank top, and you’re turned away.
The Fix:
Check dress codes and local customs before visiting temples or religious sites. For example, shoulders and knees should be covered, and shoes are usually removed. Carry a scarf or shawl for modesty!
8. Skipping Health Preparations
The Mistake:
You skip travel insurance and vaccinations, then end up sick on your trip.
The Fix:
Visit a travel doctor 6 weeks before you go. Get the necessary vaccines, purchase travel insurance, and carry a first-aid kit with essentials like diarrhea medication.
9. Over-Planned Itineraries
The Mistake:
Your schedule is so rigid that you have no room for spontaneity or local recommendations.
The Fix:
Leave room for flexibility! Know the top 2-3 things you want to do in each city, but leave afternoons or evenings open to explore.
10. Underestimating India’s Cultural Complexity
The Mistake:
You think India will be like any other country you’ve traveled to—but it’s a whole different experience. The chaos, crowds, and cultural diversity can be overwhelming.
The Fix:
Prepare mentally. India is incredible but can be intense. Be patient, flexible, and try to embrace the chaos. Don’t judge the place on your first day—give yourself time to adjust.
My Advice:
India rewards the flexible traveler who plans enough to avoid major mistakes but still leaves room for spontaneity. Don’t be afraid to explore, change plans, and soak in the chaotic beauty of this amazing country! 🌏✨
Read the full guide: all common mistakes
