North India Road Trip Itinerary for Foreign Tourists

North India Road Trip Itinerary for Foreign Tourists – Explore Delhi to the Himalayas with a Private Driver


A road trip through North India with a private car and driver is one of the most immersive ways to experience the diversity of India — from crowded bazaars to Himalayan hill stations, ancient temples to colonial hill towns. Unlike group tours, a private road trip gives you total freedom to explore at your own pace with comfort, safety, and local guidance.

Here’s a suggested 10-day North India road trip itinerary with a local driver, starting from Delhi and ending in the serene mountains.


Day 1: Arrival in Delhi – Explore the Capital

  • Your journey begins in India’s capital. Your English-speaking driver in India meets you at the airport and takes you to your hotel.
  • Explore key sights like Humayun’s Tomb, India Gate, and Qutub Minar.
  • Evening drive through Connaught Place and a local dinner stop.

Start your India private driver tour with a flexible city introduction.


Day 2: Delhi to Agra (Approx. 3.5 hrs)

  • Early morning drive to Agra via the Yamuna Expressway.
  • Visit the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Mehtab Bagh.
  • Your driver assists with entry tickets and guides you to the best sunset views.

Travel with a private car and driver from Delhi to Agra for a smooth, air-conditioned journey.


Day 3: Agra to Jaipur via Fatehpur Sikri (Approx. 5 hrs)

  • Stop at the UNESCO-listed Fatehpur Sikri en route.
  • Reach Jaipur in the evening and check into a heritage hotel.
  • Enjoy the Pink City’s calm vibes and markets with assistance from your local India driver.

This is a classic Golden Triangle Tour with private car and driver.


Day 4: Jaipur Sightseeing

  • Full day exploring Amber Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal, and Jantar Mantar.
  • Enjoy shopping for gemstones, block prints, and local crafts.
  • Your chauffeur in India ensures easy parking and pickup at crowded locations.

Discover Jaipur with a private car and English-speaking driver for hassle-free sightseeing.


Day 5: Jaipur to Rishikesh (Break journey at Haridwar, Overnight in Rishikesh)

  • A long but scenic drive. Stop for Ganga Aarti at Haridwar.
  • Arrive in Rishikesh — yoga capital of the world — by evening.
  • Your driver ensures you avoid crowded trains and complex transfers.

Many foreign tourists prefer India road trips with personal drivers for long intercity travel.


Day 6: Rishikesh Exploration

  • Explore Laxman Jhula, Beatles Ashram, local cafés, and riverside walks.
  • Optional: Attend a yoga class or enjoy a peaceful ayurvedic massage.

Ideal for wellness lovers planning a custom India tour with car and driver.


Day 7: Rishikesh to Shimla (via Dehradun, Approx. 8–9 hrs)

  • Drive north into Himachal Pradesh. Enjoy gradual change from plains to mountains.
  • Rest overnight in Shimla – a charming hill station with colonial heritage.

North India tour with driver lets you see changing landscapes comfortably.


Day 8: Shimla Sightseeing

  • Explore Mall Road, Viceregal Lodge, and Jakhoo Temple.
  • Enjoy cool mountain air and a relaxed pace, perfect for travelers looking for calm.

Experience hill stations on an India road trip with private driver.


Day 9: Shimla to Chandigarh (Approx. 3–4 hrs)

  • Descend into Punjab for a brief stop in Chandigarh – known for modern city design.
  • Visit Rock Garden and Sukhna Lake.
  • Overnight stay or continue toward Delhi depending on time.

Day 10: Return to Delhi or Fly Out from Chandigarh

  • Complete your circuit either by driving back to Delhi (5 hrs) or flying from Chandigarh.
  • Your private chauffeur in India remains with you until the last stop, ensuring a smooth departure.

Why This Itinerary Works for Foreign Tourists

  • Safe, slow-paced travel: No train hassles or crowded group tours.
  • Flexible stops: Stop for photos, food, or even unplanned detours.
  • Local help: Your English-speaking driver in India acts as your guide and assistant.
  • Comfortable vehicles: AC, extra legroom, luggage space — suited for long journeys.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q. How many days do I need for a North India road trip?
A. Ideally 9 to 14 days. You can adjust the itinerary based on your time and preferences.

Q. Is it safe to drive in the Himalayas with a local driver?
A. Yes. Always book through a company offering trained drivers experienced in mountain routes.

Q. Can I customize this itinerary further?
A. Absolutely. One of the biggest advantages of a private driver tour in India is full customization.

Q. What kind of car is suitable for this trip?
A. An SUV like Innova Crysta or similar is ideal for comfort, luggage, and uneven roads.

Q. Is this road trip suitable for seniors or kids?
A. Yes, especially with proper vehicle choice, hotel planning, and regular breaks.

Q. Do drivers help with sightseeing?
A. They assist with planning, parking, and sometimes basic guiding. For deeper knowledge, hire a local guide additionally.

Q. Are hotel bookings included in car and driver packages?
A. Some agencies offer India tour packages with driver and hotel – it's optional.

Q. Can this route be reversed (start in Shimla and end in Agra)?
A. Yes, the route is flexible. Just inform your tour planner or driver service.

Q. What is the best time to do this North India road trip?
A. October to March offers the best weather. Avoid peak summer and monsoon.

Q. Is English commonly spoken along this route?
A. In major cities and tourist areas, yes. Your driver will help bridge gaps in smaller towns.