17-Day Ultimate Family Travel Guides Route in India
Embarking on a 17-day journey through India with the family is a rewarding challenge that offers a kaleidoscope of colors, tastes, and history. This route specifically focuses on the 'Golden Triangle' of the north for its iconic grandeur, followed by the lush, tranquil landscapes of Kerala in the south for a much-needed slow-down. We have prioritized stroller-accessible monuments, shorter travel times where possible, and green spaces for the kids to run free.
Traveling through India requires a blend of patience and preparation. By choosing child-friendly transport options like the Gatimaan Express and domestic flights, and staying in heritage properties that cater to families, you can experience the best of this subcontinent without the stress. This itinerary ensures you see the world-famous highlights while maintaining a pace that respects the needs of younger travelers.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Delhi, India - Arrival & Soft Landing
Arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport
Complete your immigration and pick up your luggage. The airport is modern and well-equipped with family rooms and baby changing stations.
Hotel Check-in & Nap Time
Check into your hotel in New Delhi. Opting for the Aerocity area or South Delhi ensures quieter surroundings and better air quality for the little ones.
Stroll through Aerocity Central
Enjoy a gentle walk around the pedestrian-friendly Aerocity area, which features wide sidewalks and several international dining options perfect for a low-key first dinner.
Early Dinner at AnnaMaya
A European-style food hall that is very kid-friendly and offers organic, locally sourced Indian and international dishes.
Day 2: Delhi, India - Mughal Magnificence
Humayun’s Tomb
This UNESCO World Heritage site features wide, paved pathways making it exceptionally stroller-friendly. The vast garden complex allows children to roam safely.
Lunch at Khan Market
A posh, manageable shopping district with high-quality cafes like Town Hall or Big Chill that are accustomed to families.
India Gate & Children's Park
The lawns around India Gate are perfect for a picnic. The adjacent Children's Park features a well-maintained playground and musical fountains.
Sunder Nursery Exploration
A beautifully restored 16th-century heritage park. It is flat, paved, and incredibly peaceful—ideal for a sunset family walk.
Day 3: Delhi, India - Culture and Gardens
Lodi Garden
The city's most beautiful green lung. The paths are smooth for strollers, and the ancient tombs provide a stunning backdrop for family photos.
Lunch at Lodi - The Garden Restaurant
An alfresco dining experience nestled within the greenery, offering a relaxed environment where kids aren't expected to be silent.
National Rail Museum
A hit for children of all ages. They can ride the toy train and explore vintage locomotives in an outdoor setting.
Dilli Haat Market
An open-air food and craft bazaar. It is fenced and pedestrian-only, making it a safe place to browse handicrafts and try regional snacks.
Day 4: Agra, India - The Journey to the Taj
Shatabdi Express to Agra
Board the comfortable, air-conditioned train from New Delhi Station. Breakfast is served onboard, and the 2-hour journey is much smoother than driving.
Check-in at Agra Hotel
Choose a hotel with a view of the Taj Mahal to maximize the magic without even leaving your room.
Agra Fort
Explore the massive red sandstone fort. Much of the primary path is ramped, allowing for decent stroller access through the royal pavilions.
Mehtab Bagh Sunset
Visit the 'Moonlight Garden' across the river from the Taj Mahal for a stunning, crowd-free view of the monument at sunset.
Day 5: Agra, India - The White Marble Wonder
Taj Mahal at Sunrise
Beat the heat and the crowds. Note that strollers must be parked at the main platform, so bring a baby carrier for the actual mausoleum visit.
Return to Hotel for Breakfast
After an early start, enjoy a slow breakfast and some pool time at the hotel to recharge.
Sheroes Hangout
Have lunch at this inspiring cafe run by survivors of acid attacks. It's a heartwarming and kid-friendly spot with great local food.
I'timad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj)
A smaller, more intricate tomb that is far quieter and easier to navigate with children than the main Taj Mahal.
Day 6: Jaipur, India - The Pink City Awaits
Drive to Jaipur via Fatehpur Sikri
A private car transfer is best for this 5-hour journey. Stop halfway at the deserted Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri.
Lunch in Bharatpur
Take a break at a heritage hotel like Laxmi Vilas Palace for a traditional Rajasthani thali.
Arrival in Jaipur
Check into a heritage 'Haveli' hotel. Many have courtyards where children can play safely away from the street noise.
Dinner at Chokhi Dhani
An ethnic village resort that offers camel rides, puppet shows, and traditional folk dances—pure entertainment for kids.
Day 7: Jaipur, India - Forts and Views
Amer Fort
Take a Jeep ride up to the fort instead of the elephant ride for a more ethical and safer family experience. The Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) is breathtaking.
Panna Meena ka Kund
A beautiful 16th-century stepwell near Amer Fort. It's a quick, visually stunning stop that kids find fascinating.
Jal Mahal (Water Palace)
A brief photo stop by the lake. The promenade is flat and easy for a quick walk with a stroller.
Shopping at Bapu Bazaar
Look for colorful 'Mojari' shoes and block-printed fabrics. The vibrant colors of the Pink City markets are a sensory delight.
Day 8: Jaipur, India - Royal Residences
City Palace
The royal residence is well-maintained with flat courtyards. Don't miss the museum of royal costumes and carriages.
Lunch at The Jantar Mantar Cafe
Located near the observatory, this cafe offers a peaceful break between sightseeing stops.
Jantar Mantar Observatory
A collection of giant geometric architectural instruments. It’s like a giant playground for the mind, though kids must be supervised around the structures.
Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds)
View the iconic facade from a rooftop cafe across the street, which is much more relaxing than navigating the narrow interior stairs with kids.
Day 9: Udaipur, India - Flight to the City of Lakes
Flight to Udaipur
Avoid the 7-hour drive and take a quick 1-hour flight. Domestic terminals in India are generally very efficient.
Check-in at Lake Pichola
Choose a lakeside hotel. Many heritage properties here are situated right on the water, offering boat access.
Sunset Boat Ride
A private boat ride on Lake Pichola is a serene experience. You’ll see the Jag Mandir palace and the City Palace from the water.
Dinner with a View
Umnied Bhawan or similar lakeside restaurants offer stunning night views of the lit-up palaces.
Day 10: Udaipur, India - Palatial Wonders
Udaipur City Palace
The largest palace complex in Rajasthan. It involves some stairs, so a baby carrier is recommended over a stroller for the inner rooms.
Lunch at Jagat Niwas Rooftop
Enjoy panoramic lake views. The atmosphere is calm, and the staff are notoriously great with children.
Saheliyon-ki-Bari (Garden of the Maidens)
A beautiful garden with fountains, kiosks, and marble elephants. It’s flat, shady, and very easy to navigate with a stroller.
Bagore Ki Haveli Folk Dance
A vibrant evening show of Rajasthani music and dance. Kids usually love the puppet show segment at the start.
Day 11: Udaipur, India - Art and Leisure
Jagdish Temple
A large Hindu temple in the middle of the city. While there are steps to the top, the carvings at the base are easily viewable.
Miniature Painting Workshop
Udaipur is famous for art. Many studios offer short 'family workshops' where kids can try painting with traditional colors.
Vintage Car Museum
A collection of the Maharajas' classic cars. It's a quick and fun stop that usually fascinates younger travelers.
Leisure walk by Fatehsagar Lake
This lake has a paved promenade popular with local families. There are many food stalls and a small aquarium nearby.
Day 12: Kochi, India - Heading South
Transit to Kerala
Take a flight from Udaipur to Kochi (usually via Mumbai). This is a travel day, so keep snacks and tablets ready for the kids.
Arrival in Fort Kochi
The atmosphere in Kerala is significantly more relaxed than in the North. Check into a boutique heritage hotel in Fort Kochi.
Fort Kochi Beach Walk
Walk along the paved promenade to see the famous Chinese Fishing Nets. It's a very stroller-friendly and breezy area.
Seafood Dinner at Oceanos
Try the mild and delicious 'Meen Moilee' (fish curry with coconut milk), which is often a hit with kids who don't like spice.
Day 13: Kochi, India - Colonial Charms
Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace)
Famous for its murals. The building is largely on one level, making it relatively accessible for families.
Jew Town Exploration
The narrow streets are filled with antique shops and spice markets. It is largely pedestrian-friendly during the day.
St. Francis Church
The oldest European church in India. It’s a cool, quiet spot for a quick visit and a break from the sun.
Kathakali Performance
Watch the elaborate makeup process before the show. The expressive faces and colorful costumes are very engaging for children.
Day 14: Kochi, India - Island Life
Ferry to Vypin Island
Taking the local ferry is a cheap and exciting adventure for kids. It takes only 10 minutes to cross the harbor.
Cherai Beach
A long, clean beach with calm waters. Perfect for a family beach day. Many resorts nearby offer day-pass access to their pools.
Return to Fort Kochi
Spend the late afternoon browsing the local art galleries that line the streets of Fort Kochi.
Dinner at Kashi Art Cafe
A very relaxed courtyard cafe with great cakes and fresh juices, popular with both locals and travelers.
Day 15: Alleppey, India - The Backwaters
Drive to Alleppey (Alappuzha)
A 2-hour drive south brings you to the heart of the backwaters. The roads are generally in good condition.
Board a Private Houseboat
A highlight for any family. Ensure you book a gold-star rated boat with AC and railings for child safety.
Cruising the Canals
Watch village life pass by from the comfort of your deck. Kids can see kingfishers, water lilies, and local fishermen.
Dinner Onboard
Enjoy a traditional Kerala meal prepared by your onboard chef as the boat anchors in a quiet spot for the night.
Day 16: Alleppey, India - Resort Relaxation
Disembark Houseboat
Enjoy one last breakfast on the water before heading to a lakeside resort for your final full day.
Resort Check-in
Choose a resort on the banks of Lake Vembanad with a great pool and large gardens for the children to enjoy.
Ayurvedic Massage
Parents can take turns getting a traditional Kerala massage while the kids play in the pool or gardens.
Farewell Dinner
Celebrate the end of your epic journey with a final feast featuring Kerala's famous appams and stew.
Day 17: Kochi, India - Journey Home
Final Souvenir Shopping
Pick up some world-class Kerala spices or tea from the local market before heading to the airport.
Transfer to Kochi International Airport
The drive takes about 2 hours from Alleppey. The airport is one of the best in India and is fully solar-powered.
Check-in for Departure
Utilize the family lounge areas in the terminal to keep the kids comfortable before your flight home.
Flight Departure
End of your 17-day Indian family adventure.
Best Time to Visit India
The ideal time for this family-focused route is between October and March. During these months, Northern India (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur) enjoys pleasant, cool daytime temperatures, and Kerala is tropical but not excessively humid. This weather is perfect for sightseeing without the risk of heat exhaustion for children. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) in Kerala, as heavy rains can disrupt houseboat travel, and the peak summer months (April to June) in the North, where temperatures can exceed 40°C (104°F).
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). While major hotels and upscale restaurants in cities like Delhi and Jaipur accept international credit cards (Visa/Mastercard), cash is still king in local markets and smaller towns in Kerala. ATMs are widely available, but it's wise to carry some cash for tips and small purchases. Tipping is customary; 10% at restaurants and small amounts for porters or drivers are appreciated. Always inform your bank before travel to avoid card blocks.
Getting Around India
For intercity travel, this itinerary utilizes a mix of private cars, express trains, and domestic flights. The Gatimaan Express from Delhi to Agra is highly recommended for families for its speed and cleanliness. Domestic flights (like IndiGo or Vistara) are the most efficient way to bridge the gap between North and South India. Within cities, app-based services like Uber and Ola are reliable and offer 'Uber XL' for families with extra luggage. For a truly relaxed experience, hiring a private car and driver for your time in Rajasthan is the most comfortable option.
