rutb393

I will be on a limited budget. Travelling by bus and train where possible.
Although I do want to see some temples etc. My main interest is trekking and nature. I will not be prebooking and can decide where to go next when I'm already there. My main problem is where to start?

I know, weather wise, the time of year isn't perfect, but that's the only time I have free. I don't mind a bit of rain or heat but don't want it to be scorching. Considering starting in Kolkata, travelling via Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand (would love to see Valley of Flowers Jul/Aug)
Then either on to Leh or Rajasthan.
Or starting in Mumbai doing 3 week tour down to Kerela Backwaters and then flying to Leh.
From Leh to Uttarakhand and then to Rajasthan (obviously with stops for several days in places along the way)
Any suggestions my itinerary totally flexible. I may spend more or less than 4 months depending on my financial situation.

jacketwatch

Parts of India then can be as high as 120F. It can be scorching and then some. Personally I would fit my time to the weather.

thursdaysd

At that time of year you will want to stay as high as possible. I'd take the train up to Darjeeling, and probably also try to visit Sikim. Then train to Varanasi, and then head up to the hills in the NW, before going to Leh. I would not want to visit Rajasthan at that time of year, but it might be OK if you put it at the end.

You should consider booking your trains ahead of time if you want the AC classes. For this kind of trip it might pay to get an Indrail pass. See http://www.seat61.com/India.htm for details.

MmePerdu

I think the greatest advantage to a trip this long is not to plan too much. Have a general idea, stay when you like a place, leave when you don't. India is one of those places that benefits from not necessarily keeping to a pre-planned itinerary.

manojkeshwar

I think your plan is perfect.

ashwinb

I like the 2nd one more, keep May- June for Kerala, Ladakh, Uttarakhand, and august-september for Rajasthan and the north plains.