Word Street Journal

Want to fuel the hodophile in you but don’t have enough time? I have a solution for you. Visit these 10 places in India that you can cover in a day. After all, what’s better than satisfying your wanderlust? 

From Lansdowne in Uttarakhand to Chail in Himachal Pradesh, you can explore these touristy Indian destinations in just a day. Also, don’t forget to follow my tips to make the most of a single-day expedition. Here we go:

Jim Corbett, Uttarakhand

A 4-hour drive from Delhi, Jim Corbett National Park is a perfect destination for those who can spare just a day for their travel experience. Home to several tigers and other species, Jim Corbett is situated in Uttarakhand.

Also Read: 10 Underrated Benefits of Traveling

You can start by taking the early morning Jungle Safari. Imagine spotting tigers and leopards in this forested wildlife sanctuary through your open jeep. And then end the day on an adventurous note by camping at the riverside. Sounds exciting, right?

How to spend a day in Jim Corbett

• Morning Jungle Safari (3-4 hours).
• Bird watching followed by breakfast/brunch.
• Visiting the hidden waterfalls in the afternoon.
• Exploring nature through mesmerizing forest trails.
• Going mountain biking/fishing.
• Overnight camping near the Corbett River.

Also Read: Has the Purpose of Traveling Become Limited to Posting Instagram Stories and Reels?

Lansdowne, Uttarakhand

An unspoiled gem situated in Uttarakhand, this tranquil hill station is ideal for a day trip with your friends or family. You can begin your day with a rejuvenating nature walk amidst the deodar forests and go camping and boating in the evening.

From exploring the heritage sites to witnessing a memorable sunset at Snow Viewpoint Trek, Lansdowne has so much to offer. 

How to spend a day in Lansdowne

• Wake up and go for a walk where you will be up and close to nature.
• Stop by at Lansdowne Trip Travel Cafe for a delicious brunch.
• Spend the afternoon exploring temples and churches.
• Visit Snow Viewpoint for a breathtaking sunset.
• Sit around the bonfire, and cook your dinner at an overnight camping site.

Also Read: How to Travel Solo in Himachal Pradesh? A Complete Guide

Chail, Himachal Pradesh

Home to the highest cricket ground in the world, Chail is a serene hill station located near Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. You can easily explore this paradise in a day by visiting palaces, temples, and other tourist attractions.

From seeking adventure at the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary to offering prayers at Kali Ka Tibba, Chail is a beautiful destination for travelers who love drowning in the beauty of nature. 

How to spend a day in Chail

• Start the day by exploring the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Have breakfast at the famous Palace hotel and relive history through its architecture.
• Visit the Chail Cricket ground built by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh.
• Offer prayers at Kali ka Tibb, located on a mountain peak.
• Go shopping at the Chail market in the evening.
• Enjoy an evening walk in the Himalayan Nature Park and witness a mesmerizing sunset.
• Overnight camping near Sadhupul Lake.

Also Read: 10 Budget-Friendly Travel Destinations in India

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

The city of lights never sleeps, making it a perfect destination for those who only have a day at hand. You cannot visit all the places in the oldest city in the world but can experience its vibe through the ghats and Ganga aarti.

From the early morning breakfast at Assi ghat to the evening aarti, Varanasi offers so much in just a day.

How to spend a day in Varanasi

• Start your day by attending the morning Ganga Aarti at Assi Ghat.
• Have breakfast at Kashi Chaat Bhandaar.
• Visit Kashi Vishwanath temple and other religious sites.
• Explore different ghats and take a dip in the Holy Ganges.
• Witness the majestic evening aarti at Dashashwamedh ghat.
• Have dinner at Gadaulia Market.

Also Read: Top 10 Destinations in India for Women Travelers

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

How about spending a day in the Yoga Capital of India by visiting the century-old temples and indulging in exciting water sports? When we talk about places in India to cover in a day, Rishikesh cannot be ignored.

You can literally capture the beauty of this Holy city by waking up early morning and staying out late until midnight. Start your day by visiting the Ram and Laxman Jhula and spend your day fighting the rapids during river rafting.

Enjoy the evening from the Little Buddha cafe and spend time at the ghats at night.

How to spend a day in Rishikesh

• Take a dip in the holy Ganges in the morning.
• Explore the beauty of Rishikesh through Ram Jhula.
• Get an adrenaline rush by trying adventure activities like cliff jumping and river rafting.
• Have food at the Freedom or Little Buddha cafe.
• Attend the evening Ganga Aarti at Laxman Jhula.
• Spend time exploring the Yoga retreats.
• Sit and introspect near the sacred ghats of Rishikesh. 

Udaipur, Rajasthan

Explore the Rajasthani culture, savor Rajasthani cuisines and visit historical palaces in this city of lakes. Udaipur may be a big city, but one can easily explore all the tourist attractions in a day if you follow the itinerary.

Also Read: Udaipur City: A Travel Guide

Start the day by witnessing the sunset from Lake Pichola and end it with dinner at Jag Mandir. How does that sound? 

How to spend a day in Udaipur

• Start your day by visiting historical places like Udaipur City Palace, Saheliyo Ki Bari, and Bagore Ki Haveli.
• Have lunch at Ambre Restaurant near Lake Pichola.
• Go shopping at the Hathi Pol Bazaar in the evening.
• Take an evening boat ride on Lake Pichola.
• Have dinner at Upre restaurant.

Also Read: Travel Bucket List: 5 Places to Visit in India Before You Turn 35

Agra, Uttar Pradesh

When you talk about traveling to Agra, the first thing that comes to mind is visiting the Taj Mahal. But you will be surprised to know that this city on the banks of Yamuna River is home to numerous historical forts, palaces, and tombs.

You can start your day by visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Taj Mahal and the Agra fort and end the day by having a royal dinner at Amarvilas. 

How to spend a day in Agra

• Visit the Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri, and Agra Fort.
• Shop at Sadar Bazaar.
• Visit Akbar’s Mausoleum and Subhash Emporium.
• Spend the evening at Mehtab Bagh.
• Visit Jama Masjid or Gurudwara Guru ka Tal at night.

Final Takeaway

If you wish to satisfy your wanderlust, you don’t need much money or time. All you need is motivation, a backpack, and an itinerary. Whenever you feel like exploring the world, pack your bags and head to places you have never visited. 

India is a diverse country full of different cultures and traditions. So why just stop at one? Why not experience every city, try their delicacies, meet their people, and witness their traditions?