Journey through India's diverse landscapes with the bustling streets of Delhi, the cultural charm of Lucknow, the modernity of Chandigarh, and the serene beauty of Shimla. Each city offers a unique blend of history, tradition, and natural allure waiting to be explored.
Hello! That sounds like an exciting trip covering various facets of India. I'd be happy to provide some travel tips for your journey.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Delhi, Lucknow, Chandigarh, and Shimla is from October to March, post-monsoon and during the winter. Summers can be quite intense in India, especially in Delhi and Lucknow. Shimla, being a hill station, is pleasant during summers as well.
Route and Accessibility:
All four cities are well-connected by rail, road, and air. You can start your journey from Delhi (most international flights land here), then move to Lucknow (by air or train), from Lucknow to Chandigarh (by air), and finally, Chandigarh to Shimla (by road).
Accommodation and Booking:
All these cities have a wide range of accommodations. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses, you can choose according to your budget. It's recommended to book your accommodations in advance, especially during the peak season.
Clothing and Essentials:
As you'd be traveling during the colder months, ensure you pack warm clothes. For Shimla, you might even need heavy woolens. Also, carry sunblock, sunglasses, an umbrella, comfortable shoes, and essential medications.
Health and Safety:
Stick to bottled mineral water to avoid stomach issues. As modern Indian cities, Delhi, Lucknow, and Chandigarh are relatively safe, but maintain usual precautions. During winters, northern India experiences high air pollution, especially in Delhi. If you are sensitive, consider carrying an air pollution mask.
Local Etiquette and Respect:
India is a culturally rich country. Respect local customs, traditions and religious sentiments. Dress modestly, especially in religious places. Use your right hand for eating, handing money, etc. It’s customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's house or a religious place.