Taiwan Itinerary for Indians
Taiwan has an exciting combination of energetic cities, beautiful mountains, and ancient sites. Ancient temples are cultural treasures that counterbalance the country's modern urban areas. This 5 days itinerary for Taiwan for first-time visitors takes you from the bustling Taipei to the peaceful Sun Moon Lake. By the end, you will experience Taiwan’s diverse environment and rich cultural history, showcasing natural and architectural wonders.

Taiwan at a Glance!
Taiwan's diverse landscape, rich cultural heritage, and modern attractions continue to attract international visitors. Following the New Southbound Policy (NSP), Taiwan is building deeper ties with countries like India. There is a significant rise in outbound travel to Taiwan, captivated by its vibrant night markets, iconic temples, pristine lakes, and scenic hiking trails.
| Categories | Specifications |
| Distance from India | 4,331 km |
| How to Reach Taiwan | By taking flights from New Delhi or Bangalore to Taipei City |
| New Delhi to Taipei Flight Duration | 8 to 15 hours with one-stop flights |
| Bangalore to Taipei Flight Duration | 10 to 16 hours with one-stop and two-stop flights |
| Best Time to Visit Taiwan | October - April |
| International Airport | Taoyuan International Airport |
Selecting travel insurance before finalizing your Taiwan travel itinerary is vital to cover potential delays or cancellations due to medical issues. Though not mandatory, this measure lets you enjoy your trip entirely, knowing you're protected against unexpected situations.
5 Days Taiwan Itinerary for First-time Visitors
Indian citizens visiting Taiwan need to apply for a visa, and the process is simple. Complete the application form online and ensure your passport is valid for at least six months. You'll need two passport-sized photos, a letter explaining your trip's purpose, confirmed flight and hotel bookings, and bank statements from the last three months.
Once you've got everything sorted, pack your essentials like comfortable clothes and sunscreen, and get ready to enjoy your Taiwan trip!
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Day 1: Arrival in Taipei
Taipei, the lively capital, is the ideal start to your Taiwan trip itinerary.
Morning
Arrive at Taoyuan International Airport and head to your accommodation for a quick rest. Familiarise yourself with the local neighbourhood.
Afternoon
Visit Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a historic landmark commemorating the former president of the Republic of China.
Evening
Experience the lively Ximending district, Taipei’s entertainment and street food hub. You may also want to visit the Longshan Temple, one of the most famous temples in Taipei.
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Day 2: Exploring Taipei
Taipei showcases a mix of cultural heritage and modern attractions.
Morning
Visit the National Palace Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of Chinese artefacts.
Afternoon
Head to Taipei 101 for panoramic views from its observation deck.
Evening
Take the Maokong Gondola to the Maokong region for a tea ceremony. Alternatively, visit the Shilin Night Market for an authentic Taiwanese food experience.
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Day 3: Journey to Sun Moon Lake
Sun Moon Lake is a peaceful retreat surrounded by rich history and natural beauty.
Morning
Travel from Taipei to Sun Moon Lake (approx. 2.5 hours). Take a boat ride across the calm waters.
Afternoon
Visit Ci'en Pagoda, which offers panoramic views. You could also cycle along the Sun Moon Lake Bikeway, a scenic route visitors favour.
Evening
Enjoy dinner at a lakeside restaurant before retiring to your accommodation.
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Day 4: Taroko Gorge Adventure
Experience the dramatic scenery and trails of Taroko Gorge.
Morning
Travel to Taroko Gorge (approx. 3 hours). Start with a visit to the Eternal Spring Shrine, famous for its waterfall.
Afternoon
Walk along the Shakadang Trail, known for its clear waters and unique rock formations. If you're feeling adventurous, consider hiking the Zhuilu Old Trail, which offers a more challenging route.
Evening
Relax in the soothing warmth of the natural hot springs at a local hotel, with views of the surrounding mountains and lush forest.
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Day 5: Alishan and Departure
Alishan is well known for its mountain views, especially at sunrise.
Morning
Travel to Alishan (approx. 3.5 hours). Enjoy a ride on the Alishan Forest Railway through the lush forest.
Afternoon
Visit the Giant Sacred Tree before heading to the Alishan Scenic Area for more breathtaking views.
Evening
Return to Taipei for your flight or spend the night at a nearby hotel, depending on your schedule.
| Places to Visit | Opening Hours |
| Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall | 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM |
| Ximending District | Open 24/7; best visited in the evening |
| Longshan Temple | 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM |
| National Palace Museum | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Sat-Thu), 9:00 AM - 8:30 PM (Fri) |
| Taipei 101 | 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM |
| Maokong Gondola | 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM |
| Sun Moon Lake | 10:30 AM - 4:00 PM |
| Ci'en Pagoda | 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM |
| Eternal Spring Shrine | 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM |
| Zhuilu Old Trail | 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM |
| Alishan Forest Railway | 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM |
| Giant Sacred Tree | Open 24/7 |
Budget Estimate for 5 Days in Taiwan
After completing your 5-day Taiwan itinerary, here's a quick estimate of your expenses for mid-range accommodation, transportation, meals, and activities to ensure a comfortable trip.
| Expense | Approx. Cost |
| Visa Fee | INR 3,800 - 5,700 |
| New Delhi to Taipei Flight Costs | INR 42,172 - 55,453 with one-stop flights |
| Bangalore to Taipei Flight Costs | INR 45,456 - 89,877 with one-stop and flights |
| Hotel/Accommodation Costs | INR 5,342 - 8,598 per night |
| Domestic Flights Costs | INR 4,552 - 13,756 |
| Local Transportation Costs (Trains, Ferries, Taxi, Buses, etc.) | INR 52 - 6,525 |
| Travel Insurance | INR 311 - 943 |
| Food | INR 261 - 783 |
| Souvenirs | INR 391 - 1,305 |
| Any Additional expenses (certification, travel pass, mobile sim, wifi, etc.) | INR 208 - 1,044 |
Taiwan Itinerary: Top Recommendations

Each of Taiwan's cities and regions has something special to offer. Here are some must-see locations:
- Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, TaipeiA grand structure with stunning architecture honouring Taiwan's historical past.
- National Palace Museum, TaipeiA treasure trove of Chinese artefacts and a great place to learn about Chinese history.
- Taroko GorgeOne of Taiwan's most iconic natural landmarks, known for its marble cliffs and deep gorges.
- Sun Moon LakeA serene location offering boat rides, hiking trails, and spectacular mountain views.
- Alishan Forest RailwayA scenic train journey through Alishan's dense, misty forests.
Tips for Planning Your Taiwan Itinerary
Here are some practical and helpful tips to keep in mind while planning your Taiwan tour itinerary:
- Download Offline MapsWhile Taiwan has excellent mobile network coverage, some rural areas like Taroko Gorge may have limited signal. Having offline maps downloaded before heading out to these remote locations is wise.
- Download the iTaiwan AppBefore arriving, download the iTaiwan app to access free public Wi-Fi at numerous hotspots across Taiwan, including MRT stations, airports, and tourist attractions.
- Stay HydratedTaiwan's climate can be humid, so carry a refillable water bottle. While tap water in major cities is safe to drink, bottled water is recommended in more remote areas.
- Bring a Reusable BagTaiwan has strict plastic bag regulations. Many stores charge for plastic bags, so reusable bags are eco-friendly and convenient for shopping.
- Buy a Taiwan Rail PassIf you plan to travel between cities via train, consider purchasing the Taiwan Rail Pass. It provides unlimited travel on Taiwan Railways for a set number of days, saving you time and money.
FAQs
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Q1: Do you need a local SIM card in Taiwan for mobile data?
Ans: It’s a good idea to get a local SIM card for reliable and affordable mobile data. Providers like Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, and Far EasTone offer SIM cards at Taoyuan International Airport and convenience stores across Taiwan. -
Q2: Is public transport easy to use in Taiwan?
Ans: Taiwan's MRT, buses, and High-Speed Rail (HSR) are efficient, well-connected, and tourist-friendly. -
Q3: What is the local time zone in Taiwan?
Ans: Taiwan operates on Taiwan Standard Time (TST), UTC +8 hours. -
Q4: Can you use contactless payments in Taiwan?
Ans: Yes, most stores and restaurants in Taiwan accept contactless payments through Apple Pay, Google Pay, and major credit cards. -
Q5: Are there any food delivery apps available in Taiwan?
Ans: You can use apps like Foodpanda and Uber Eats to order food in most cities, with a wide range of cuisines available.
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