11 Day Uttar Pradesh and Delhi Backpacking Itinerary January to February 2026

Varanasi · Monday, January 26, 2026

Arrival in Varanasi and Riverside Evening

7:00 AM:

Arrive at Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore after your early transit from Chennai, taking a slow and steady start to your 11-day backpacking journey.

9:00 AM:

Enjoy a leisurely South Indian breakfast of ragi dosa and filter coffee at the airport outlet of MTR (Mavalli Tiffin Rooms) or Aaryaas to fuel up for the day.

11:00 AM:

Head to the terminal for an early check-in and spend some quiet time reading or people-watching at the 080 Lounge while waiting for your flight to Varanasi.

12:30 PM:

Spend a quiet hour exploring the stunning architecture and indoor gardens of Kempegowda International Airport Terminal 2, which provides a peaceful atmosphere for a slow traveler.

1:45 PM:

Have a light, relaxed lunch at La Tapenade or Bira 91 Taproom within the terminal to settle your appetite before the afternoon flight.

3:00 PM:

Board your flight from Bangalore to Varanasi, taking the time to relax as you transition from the modern landscapes of South India to the ancient soul of the North.

5:15 PM:

Touch down at Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi and begin your slow-paced transit toward the city center by booking a pre-paid taxi.

6:15 PM:

Check into a backpacker-friendly hostel like Zostel Varanasi or Mantra Hostel, taking your time to settle in and meet fellow slow travelers in the communal area.

7:30 PM:

Take a slow, atmospheric walk through the labyrinthine alleys leading to Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the lingering spiritual energy and flickering oil lamps along the Ganges.

8:30 PM:

Enjoy a simple yet iconic dinner at Kashi Chat Bhandar, famous for its tamatar chaat, or opt for a quiet corner at Blue Lassi Shop to sample their legendary hand-churned yogurt.

9:30 PM:

End your first evening with a peaceful stroll toward Darbhanga Ghat, finding a quiet stone step to sit and absorb the silence of the river under the moonlight before retiring early.

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Varanasi · Tuesday, January 27, 2026

Spiritual Immersion and Ghat Exploration

5:30 AM:

Begin your morning with a soul-stirring rowboat ride on the Ganges, starting from Assi Ghat to watch the sun rise and illuminate the riverbank in soft golden light.

7:00 AM:

Disembark at Assi Ghat to witness the Subah-e-Banaras, a meditative morning ritual including Vedic chanting and a small-scale aarti that celebrates the start of the day.

8:30 AM:

Walk through the waking city to Ram Bhandar for an authentic local breakfast of kachori-sabzi and piping hot jalebis, followed by a thick cup of tea at a nearby Chai Stall.

10:00 AM:

Meander slowly through the labyrinthine lanes of the old city toward the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the spiritual core of Varanasi, taking in the sights and scents of the flower markets.

11:30 AM:

Head to Man Mandir Ghat and ascend to the Jantar Mantar Varanasi, an ancient celestial observatory that provides a quiet sanctuary and panoramic views of the curving river.

1:00 PM:

Enjoy a slow, flavorful lunch at Lotus Lounge near Mansarowar Ghat, an elevated cafe offering a peaceful vantage point to observe the colorful activity on the river below.

2:30 PM:

Venture to the serene, tree-lined campus of Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum to admire its vast collection of ancient Indian paintings and textiles.

4:00 PM:

Find a quiet spot to rest within the grounds of the New Vishwanath Temple (Birla Temple), a grand marble structure dedicated to Lord Shiva that stands as a peaceful alternative to the crowded city center.

5:30 PM:

Return towards the river and wander to Tulsi Ghat to witness the traditional Akhara where local wrestlers practice ancient techniques in the soft afternoon light before the evening ceremonies begin.

7:00 PM:

Find a contemplative spot on a stationary boat or the steps of Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the grand Ganga Aarti, a rhythmic and mesmerizing fire ritual dedicated to the holy river.

8:30 PM:

Enjoy a slow-paced, traditional dinner at Baati Chokha on Teliabag Road, where the rustic ambiance and authentic clay-oven cooked meals provide a deep dive into local flavors.

10:00 PM:

Take a quiet, moonlit walk through the now-peaceful Vishwanath Gali and return to your hostel, perhaps stopping for a final glass of hot milk from a Local Milk Vendor to end the night.

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Varanasi · Wednesday, January 28, 2026

Sarnath Visit and Local Markets

7:00 AM:

Begin your morning with a quiet cup of ginger tea on the rooftop of your hostel, watching the mist rise over the Ganges River as the city slowly stirs to life.

8:30 AM:

Head to Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe at Assi Ghat for a relaxed breakfast of their famous apple pie or a simple toasted sandwich while enjoying the serene morning view of the riverbanks.

9:30 AM:

Hire an electric rickshaw for a leisurely 10-kilometer ride through the city outskirts to reach the peaceful Buddhist sanctuary of Sarnath, where the Buddha delivered his first sermon.

10:30 AM:

Wander through the beautifully maintained gardens of the Deer Park and sit in quiet contemplation before the massive Dhamek Stupa, soaking in the spiritual stillness of this ancient site.

11:30 AM:

Visit the nearby Sarnath Archaeological Museum to see the original Lion Capital of Ashoka and a stunning collection of Buddhist sculptures that date back over two millennia.

12:30 PM:

Enjoy a quiet, meditative lunch at the Hamsa Buddhist Center & Cafe in Sarnath, known for its organic vegetarian menu and peaceful garden atmosphere.

1:30 PM:

Walk to the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, where you can admire the stunning inner frescoes painted by a Japanese artist and sit for a moment of reflection in the temple's cool interior.

2:30 PM:

Take a slow-paced stroll to the Wat Thai Sarnath Temple to see the majestic 80-foot standing Buddha statue, one of the tallest in the region, surrounded by serene manicured lawns.

3:30 PM:

Board a slow-moving electric rickshaw for the return journey to the main city, stopping briefly to admire the Chaukhandi Stupa, a towering brick monument where Buddha is said to have met his first disciples.

4:30 PM:

Visit the Varanasi Weavers' Village in the Sarai Mohana area to witness the slow, painstaking art of hand-weaving Banarasi Silk on traditional wooden looms, a craft passed down through generations.

5:30 PM:

Head to the vibrant Godowlia Market, the city's bustling commercial heart, to wander through stalls filled with brassware and colorful bangles at a relaxed, backpacking pace.

6:30 PM:

Walk down to the relatively quiet Scindia Ghat to see the Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple, which leans into the river, offering a more contemplative evening view than the busier ghats.

7:30 PM:

Enjoy a slow-paced dinner at Dosa Cafe near Pandey Ghat, a tiny and charming spot that serves a unique variety of fusion South Indian dishes, providing a small taste of home.

8:30 PM:

Visit the International Music Centre Ashram to witness a soulful Hindustani classical music performance, where the sounds of the sitar and tabla create a meditative atmosphere.

9:30 PM:

Wrap up your evening with a glass of warm saffron milk at Baba Thandai, a local favorite, before taking a slow, quiet walk back through the cooling night air to your hostel.

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Prayagraj · Thursday, January 29, 2026

Slow Train Journey to Prayagraj

7:00 AM:

Begin your final morning in the holy city with a quiet walk to Assi Ghat for a last view of the Ganges at dawn, savoring the stillness before your journey.

8:00 AM:

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast of bread-toast and malai-tea at the legendary Laxmi Chai Wala, a favorite among locals and backpackers for its authentic old-city vibe.

9:30 AM:

Return to your hostel to pick up your backpack and take a slow, observant e-rickshaw ride through the waking streets toward Varanasi Junction (BSB).

10:30 AM:

Arrive at the station early to experience the vibrant chaos of an Indian railway platform, perhaps picking up some local snacks like Roasted Chana from a Platform Vendor.

11:30 AM:

Board the Varanasi-Prayagraj Intercity Express, settling into your seat by the window to watch the rural landscapes of Uttar Pradesh slowly drift by during the short, scenic transit.

1:00 PM:

Watch the rural landscape of Uttar Pradesh transition into the expansive riverbanks as your train crosses the Yamuna Bridge, offering a panoramic first glimpse of Prayagraj.

2:00 PM:

Arrive at Prayagraj Junction (PRYJ) and disembark slowly, taking a traditional cycle-rickshaw through the wide, tree-lined avenues toward the Civil Lines area.

2:45 PM:

Check into a relaxed accommodation like Hotel Kanha Shyam or a local backpacker-friendly lodge, taking time to freshen up and unpack at your own pace.

3:45 PM:

Walk over to Eat On in the Civil Lines market for a late, legendary lunch featuring their famous seekh kebabs and parathas, an essential stop for any food-focused backpacker.

5:00 PM:

Begin your local exploration with a peaceful stroll through Alfred Park, also known as Chandra Shekhar Azad Park, where you can sit under the ancient trees and soak in the city's historical atmosphere.

6:00 PM:

Visit the Allahabad Museum, located within the park grounds, to admire its extensive collection of ancient stone sculptures and the personal belongings of national leaders at a slow, contemplative pace.

7:00 PM:

Take a short walk to the majestic All Saints Cathedral, also known as Patthar Girja, a colonial-era Gothic structure featuring stunning stained glass and intricate stone carvings.

8:00 PM:

Experience the nostalgic atmosphere of the Indian Coffee House in Civil Lines, where you can enjoy a quiet coffee and watch the local scholars and residents engage in lively evening debates.

9:00 PM:

Delight in a traditional and hearty dinner at Netram Mulchand & Sons, a legendary establishment known for its authentic North Indian vegetarian thalis and deep-fried kachoris.

10:00 PM:

End your evening with a gentle stroll back toward your accommodation, enjoying the cooler night air and the grand, illuminated facades of the colonial buildings along Mahatma Gandhi Marg.

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Prayagraj · Friday, January 30, 2026

Sangam Confluence and Fort Views

6:30 AM:

Wake up early and head to the Triveni Sangam, the sacred confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers, to witness the quiet devotion of pilgrims at dawn.

7:30 AM:

Hire a traditional wooden boat to take you out to the exact point of the confluence, where you can observe the distinct colors of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers merging in a peaceful, meditative atmosphere.

9:00 AM:

Enjoy a rustic and slow breakfast of hot milk and freshly made kachoris at a Local Tea Stall near the Prayagraj Fort walls, soaking in the morning sun and the vibrant energy of the riverbank.

10:30 AM:

Visit the unique Bade Hanuman Temple, also known as the Let Hanuman Temple, where the massive idol is in a reclining position, and experience the rhythmic sounds of morning prayers and temple bells.

11:30 AM:

Spend a quiet hour walking along the Saraswati Ghat, admiring the stone steps and the calm waters of the Yamuna River before finding a shaded spot to watch the boats pass by.

12:30 PM:

Savor a leisurely lunch at Kamdhenu Sweets & Restaurant, a local favorite in the Civil Lines area where you can enjoy authentic North Indian vegetarian specialties and traditional dairy sweets at a slow pace.

2:00 PM:

Walk through the historic halls of Anand Bhavan, the grand ancestral home of the Nehru family, taking time to admire the vast library and the preserved artifacts of India's independence era.

3:30 PM:

Explore the adjacent Swaraj Bhavan, another historic mansion with high ceilings and cool corridors, and perhaps catch a relaxing show at the Jawahar Planetarium located within the same complex.

5:00 PM:

Take a gentle rickshaw ride to Khusro Bagh, a large walled garden enclosing three beautifully carved sandstone tombs of the Mughal era, providing a peaceful environment for a contemplative late afternoon stroll.

6:00 PM:

Take a slow, atmospheric walk across the pedestrian walkway of the New Yamuna Bridge, a modern engineering marvel that offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the sunset over the Yamuna River.

7:30 PM:

Head to the heart of the city for a relaxed dinner at El Chico in Civil Lines, an iconic restaurant known for its vintage charm and legendary continental and North Indian dishes.

9:00 PM:

Meander through the historic Chowk area as the nightly market bustle begins to wind down, offering a glimpse into the city's older soul and the chance to sample a late-night glass of hot milk from a Local Confectioner.

10:00 PM:

Return to your hostel for a quiet evening on the balcony, soaking in the peaceful night air of Prayagraj and perhaps sharing travel stories with other slow-paced backpackers.

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Ayodhya · Saturday, January 31, 2026

Heritage Walk in Ayodhya

6:00 AM:

Begin your transition to the third holy city of your trip by heading to Prayagraj Junction to catch an early train, absorbing the quiet morning energy of the station.

7:30 AM:

Board a train like the Saryu Express for a slow-paced journey through the rural heart of Uttar Pradesh, enjoying a simple breakfast of tea and local biscuits served by Platform Vendors.

9:30 AM:

Watch the winter landscape change from the train window as you pass through small towns and mustard fields, typical of the Gangetic Plain in late January.

11:00 AM:

Arrive at the architecturally grand Ayodhya Dham Junction, taking some time to admire the temple-inspired murals and stone carvings within the station complex.

11:45 AM:

Take a slow e-rickshaw ride to your accommodation, checking into a modest and peaceful stay like Saryu Guest House or a local Dharamshala to drop your bags and freshen up.

12:30 PM:

Enjoy a simple and soul-satisfying Satvik lunch at Mahi's Restaurant, or opt for a traditional local Bhojanalaya near the main temple road for a slow-paced thali experience.

2:00 PM:

Head to the historic Hanuman Garhi, a fortified temple perched on a mound, taking your time to climb the stairs and admire the panoramic view of Ayodhya from its high walls.

3:30 PM:

Meander through the narrow, vibrant streets toward the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple complex, where you can spend an unhurried hour observing the detailed stone carvings and the grand scale of the main structure.

5:00 PM:

Visit the ornate and peaceful Kanak Bhawan, also known as the Golden Palace, where you can find a quiet spot in the courtyard to listen to the soft, rhythmic bhajans echoing through the halls.

6:00 PM:

Take a leisurely stroll to Ram ki Paidi, an impressive bank of ghats along the Saryu River that comes alive with beautiful light installations and a calm evening breeze.

7:00 PM:

Find a quiet step at Naya Ghat to witness the grand Saryu River Aarti, a mesmerizing ceremony of light and sound that reflects the deep spiritual roots of the city.

8:30 PM:

Enjoy a simple and authentic dinner at Shree Kanak Rasoi, a popular local spot known for its pure vegetarian thalis and traditional flavors that cater to the soul of a slow traveler.

9:30 PM:

Visit the Tulsi Smarak Bhawan, a cultural center dedicated to the poet-saint Tulsidas, to observe the local community's evening gatherings and the peaceful atmosphere of its gardens.

10:30 PM:

End your day with a slow walk back to your stay, perhaps stopping for a glass of warm, spiced milk from a Side-street Dairy Vendor as the city transitions into a quiet night.

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Ayodhya · Sunday, February 1, 2026

Serene Morning at Saryu River

6:00 AM:

Begin your day with a contemplative walk to Guptar Ghat, the sacred site where the Saryu River flows with a quiet intensity beneath the rising sun.

7:30 AM:

Take a silent boat ride on a traditional wooden craft from Guptar Ghat to Raj Ghat, observing the morning rituals of the local community at a distance.

9:00 AM:

Savor a slow-paced breakfast of kachoris and curd at Maurya Mishthan Bhandar, a humble eatery known for its authentic flavors and traditional Ayodhya hospitality.

10:30 AM:

Explore the peaceful grounds of the Nageshwarnath Temple, one of the oldest shrines in the city, where the rhythmic sound of temple bells creates a meditative atmosphere.

11:30 AM:

Meander through the quiet, tree-lined path leading to Mani Parvat, an ancient hillock offering a bird's-eye view of the historic city and its many temple spires.

12:30 PM:

Enjoy a leisurely and authentic vegetarian thali at Amrut Rasoi, a local favorite known for its home-style cooking and peaceful dining atmosphere.

2:00 PM:

Explore the grand Dashrath Mahal, the ancient residence of King Dashrath, where you can admire the vibrant murals and the intricate stone carvings around the main entrance.

3:30 PM:

Take a slow, contemplative stroll through Tulsi Udyan, a shaded memorial garden dedicated to the saint-poet Tulsidas, offering a quiet escape from the afternoon sun.

4:45 PM:

Visit the unique Valmiki Bhawan, where you can spend time reading the verses of the Ramayana beautifully inscribed across the temple's marble walls in a meditative environment.

6:00 PM:

Return to the banks of Ram ki Paidi as the sun sets, watching the beautifully lit steps reflect in the water while locals gather for evening conversations in the cool air.

7:00 PM:

Visit the majestic Choti Chawni, also known as Mani Ram Das Chawni, a grand temple complex featuring elaborate stone carvings and a peaceful courtyard perfect for a slow-paced evening visit.

8:15 PM:

Enjoy a quiet, rustic dinner at Saket Misthan Bhandar, where you can sample their legendary stuffed parathas and local sweets, soaking in the traditional vibes of the old town.

9:30 PM:

Take a final, meditative walk through the narrow lanes connecting the major temples, perhaps stopping at a Local Chai Stall for a late-night tea served in a traditional earthen clay cup.

10:30 PM:

Head back to your guesthouse to rest and prepare for the next leg of your journey, reflecting on the tranquil atmosphere of Ayodhya before the tomorrow's transit to Lucknow.

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Lucknow · Monday, February 2, 2026

Lucknow Street Food and Nawabi Architecture

7:00 AM:

Wake up slowly in Ayodhya and enjoy a final cup of ginger tea by the Saryu River, soaking in the peaceful morning stillness before your departure.

8:30 AM:

Head to Ayodhya Dham Junction to board an intercity train bound for the capital city, settling in for a relaxed three-hour journey across the plains of Uttar Pradesh.

10:30 AM:

Watch the changing landscape from your window as the train approaches the outskirts of Lucknow, passing through the lush green fields and smaller suburban stations.

11:30 AM:

Arrive at the magnificent Lucknow Charbagh Railway Station, where you can take a few moments to admire the red-and-white dome architecture that resembles a chess board from above.

12:15 PM:

Take a slow e-rickshaw ride to the Hazratganj area to check into a backpacker-friendly stay like Zostel Lucknow, allowing yourself time to drop your bags and settle into the city's vibe.

1:00 PM:

Head to the legendary Tunday Kababi in Aminabad for a slow, flavorful lunch of melt-in-the-mouth Galouti Kebabs and Ulte Tawe Ka Paratha.

2:00 PM:

Take a languid stroll through the bustling lanes of Aminabad Market, observing the local vendors selling traditional Chikan Embroidery garments at a relaxed pace.

3:00 PM:

Visit the majestic Bara Imambara complex, taking your time to admire the gravity-defying architecture of the central arched hall, built without any supporting pillars.

4:00 PM:

Challenge yourself with a slow, curious walk through the Bhulbhulaiya, an intricate labyrinth of balcony-lined passages that offers panoramic views of the city from the top.

5:00 PM:

Walk slowly toward the iconic Rumi Darwaza, also known as the Turkish Gate, to capture the grand architecture in the soft, golden light of the late afternoon.

6:00 PM:

Head to the exquisite Chhota Imambara, also known as the Palace of Lights, to see its grand chandeliers and calligraphic art begin to glow in the early evening.

7:00 PM:

Take a short, slow walk to admire the Hussainabad Clock Tower, the tallest of its kind in India, and the nearby four-storied watchtower known as Satkhanda.

8:00 PM:

Dive deep into the culinary heart of the city with a visit to Wahid Biryani in Aminabad to savor a plate of authentic, slow-cooked Awadhi biryani.

9:30 PM:

Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the Gomti Riverfront Park, where the illuminated pathways and cooling river breeze offer a modern contrast to the day's historic exploration.

10:30 PM:

Wrap up your evening with a visit to Prakash Kulfi in the Aminabad area for a creamy Kesar Falooda Kulfi, followed by a quiet walk back to your hostel.

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Agra · Tuesday, February 3, 2026

Agra Fort and Taj Mahal at Sunset

7:00 AM:

Enjoy your final morning in the City of Nawabs with a relaxed breakfast of sweet bun-maska and ginger tea at the iconic Sharma Ji Ki Chai near the Hazratganj area.

8:30 AM:

Take a gentle e-rickshaw ride to the historic Charbagh Railway Station and board the Lucknow-Agra Fort Intercity Express for a comfortable, unhurried journey toward the city of the Mughals.

10:00 AM:

Settle into the rhythmic pace of the train as it traverses the fertile Doab Region, offering scenic views of mustard fields and rural Uttar Pradesh villages from your window seat.

11:30 AM:

Pull into the Agra Fort Railway Station, catching your first glimpse of the imposing red sandstone battlements of the Agra Fort as the train slows down near the station platform.

12:15 PM:

Take a slow e-rickshaw through the historic streets to the Taj Ganj area and check into a relaxed, backpacker-friendly stay like Zostel Agra or The Hosteller Agra to drop your bags.

1:30 PM:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Saniya Palace Rooftop Restaurant, where you can catch your first iconic glimpse of the Taj Mahal dome rising over the city while dining on authentic North Indian curry.

2:45 PM:

Walk to the nearby Agra Fort and enter through the grand Amar Singh Gate, beginning a slow-paced exploration of this massive red sandstone citadel and its white marble palaces.

4:00 PM:

Find a quiet, shaded corner in the Musamman Burj within the fort, the octagonal tower where Emperor Shah Jahan spent his final years gazing at the Taj Mahal across the Yamuna River.

5:00 PM:

Take a short e-rickshaw ride to the north bank of the river to Mehtab Bagh, also known as the Moonlight Garden, to find a peaceful spot on the grass as the afternoon light begins to soften.

6:00 PM:

Witness the breathtaking silhouette of the Taj Mahal as the sun sets, casting a golden glow over the white marble from your peaceful vantage point at Mehtab Bagh.

7:15 PM:

Take a slow e-rickshaw ride to the bustling Sadar Bazar, where you can spend an unhurried hour browsing through stalls of leather goods and local handicrafts.

8:30 PM:

Enjoy a relaxed and authentic dinner at Joney's Place, a legendary small eatery in the Taj Ganj area popular with backpackers for its home-style cooking and cozy vibe.

9:30 PM:

Stop by the famous Panchi Petha store to sample various flavors of the iconic translucent sweet of Agra, a perfect treat to end your culinary exploration of the city.

10:30 PM:

Return to the rooftop of Zostel Agra for a quiet nightcap, enjoying the cool night breeze and the distant, illuminated view of the city's domes before retiring for the night.

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Delhi · Wednesday, February 4, 2026

Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah Evening Qawwali

7:00 AM:

Wake up slowly in Agra and head to a quiet rooftop cafe in Taj Ganj for a final look at the white marble dome of the Taj Mahal while enjoying a light breakfast.

8:30 AM:

Take a relaxed auto-rickshaw ride to Agra Cantt Railway Station to board the Gatimaan Express, settling into the comfortable seating for a smooth transit to Delhi.

10:00 AM:

Settle into your seat and watch the urban sprawl of the National Capital Region begin to emerge as the train glides past the industrial outskirts and rural fields.

11:15 AM:

Arrive at Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station in Delhi, taking your time to navigate the historic station and its vibrant, busy surroundings.

11:45 AM:

Head towards the Nizamuddin West neighborhood to check into a local guesthouse or a backpacker-friendly stay like The Madpackers Delhi, allowing yourself a slow transition into the capital city.

12:30 PM:

Enjoy a slow-paced, flavorful lunch at Ghalib Kabab Corner in the heart of Nizamuddin Basti, known for its legendary kebabs and authentic local atmosphere.

2:00 PM:

Take a short walk to the magnificent Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can wander through the expansive Mughal gardens and admire the red sandstone architecture at a leisurely pace.

3:30 PM:

Explore the adjacent and peaceful Isa Khan's Tomb, an ancient octagonal structure within the same heritage complex that offers a quieter environment for reflection.

4:45 PM:

Meander through the beautifully restored landscapes of Sunder Nursery, Delhi's 16th-century heritage park, to enjoy the serene water bodies and find a shaded spot to relax as the afternoon heat begins to dissipate.

5:30 PM:

As the sun sets, take a slow and mindful walk into the narrow, historical lanes of Nizamuddin Basti, soaking in the fragrance of incense and the vibrant communal life of this medieval settlement.

6:30 PM:

Enter the soul-stirring complex of Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah, the shrine of the famous Sufi saint, and find a quiet spot on the marble floor to observe the spiritual rituals of the evening.

7:30 PM:

Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing Sufi Qawwali session in the main courtyard, where devotional songs and rhythmic clapping create a deeply meditative atmosphere for a slow traveler.

8:30 PM:

Head into the nearby alleys for a legendary dinner at the original Karim's (Nizamuddin branch), where you can savor authentic, slow-cooked mutton korma and freshly baked Khamiri Roti.

9:30 PM:

Pay a quiet visit to the tomb of the legendary poet Amir Khusrau, located within the Dargah complex, before finding a small Local Tea Stall to enjoy a glass of spiced milk tea.

10:30 PM:

Take a gentle stroll back toward your stay in Nizamuddin West, enjoying the cooler night air and the peaceful transition of the bustling basti into a quiet, historic neighborhood.

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Delhi · Thursday, February 5, 2026

Leisurely Morning and Departure from IGI

8:30 AM:

Wake up slowly at your stay in Nizamuddin West and enjoy a leisurely morning tea on the balcony, soaking in the neighborhood's historic atmosphere one last time.

9:30 AM:

Head to a local eatery like The Turkey Project or a nearby Basti Tea Stall for a simple breakfast of omelets or parathas, keeping the pace unhurried as you prepare for your final day.

10:30 AM:

Take a short e-rickshaw ride to Lodhi Garden, a serene expanse of greenery where you can wander slowly between the 15th-century Sayyid and Lodi Dynasty Tombs without the pressure of a tourist schedule.

11:30 AM:

Find a quiet shaded bench near the Bara Gumbad monument to sit and journal about your 11-day journey through Uttar Pradesh, enjoying the peaceful park vibes favored by Delhi's residents.

12:30 PM:

Exit the gardens and take a short walk to Khan Market, one of Delhi's most iconic upscale hubs, for a slow-paced lunch at Cafe Turtle, located inside a quiet bookstore.

1:45 PM:

Take a gentle rickshaw ride to the Lodhi Art District in Lodhi Colony, where you can spend an unhurried hour wandering through the lanes to admire the massive, colorful murals painted by artists from around the world.

3:00 PM:

Return to your stay in Nizamuddin West to collect your backpack, perhaps stopping for one final glass of tea at a Local Basti Stall to soak in the neighborhood's medieval charm before leaving.

4:15 PM:

Begin your slow transit to Indira Gandhi International Airport (Terminal 3) by booking a comfortable cab, allowing plenty of buffer time for the city's afternoon traffic and a stress-free check-in for your 7:30 PM flight.

5:15 PM:

Arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport (Terminal 3) and proceed through check-in and security at your own pace, taking a moment to admire the famous Mudra Art Installation that adorns the departure hall.

6:15 PM:

Enjoy a final, unhurried meal at The Copper Chimney or sit back with a relaxed coffee at the Encalm Lounge, savoring the last flavors of your trip while waiting for your boarding gate to open.

7:30 PM:

Board your return flight from Delhi back toward Chennai, settling in for a quiet evening flight as you reflect on your slow-paced backpacking exploration through the ancient souls of Varanasi, Prayagraj, Ayodhya, and Lucknow.

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Estimated Costs (per person)

Place / ActivityCost
MTR (Mavalli Tiffin Rooms) Bangalore Airport₹400
080 Lounge Bangalore Airport₹1500
La Tapenade / Bira 91 Taproom Bangalore Airport₹800
Kashi Chat Bhandar₹150
Blue Lassi Shop₹100
Ganges Rowboat Ride (Assi Ghat)₹300
Ram Bhandar Breakfast₹120
Kashi Vishwanath TempleFree
Jantar Mantar Varanasi₹25
Lotus Lounge Lunch₹500
Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum₹20
Baati Chokha Teliabag₹350
Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe₹400
Sarnath Archaeological Site & Dhamek Stupa₹25
Sarnath Archaeological Museum₹5
Hamsa Buddhist Center & Cafe₹350
Dosa Cafe₹250
International Music Centre Ashram Performance₹300
Baba Thandai₹60
Laxmi Chai Wala₹60
Eat On (Civil Lines)₹250
Allahabad Museum₹50
Indian Coffee House Prayagraj₹150
Netram Mulchand & Sons₹300
Triveni Sangam Boat Ride₹200
Kamdhenu Sweets & Restaurant₹250
Anand Bhavan₹70
Swaraj Bhavan₹10
Jawahar Planetarium₹60
El Chico₹750
Mahi's Restaurant Ayodhya₹250
Shree Kanak Rasoi₹200
Saryu River Boat Ride₹200
Maurya Mishthan Bhandar₹100
Amrut Rasoi₹250
Saket Misthan Bhandar₹150
Tunday Kababi Aminabad₹300
Bara Imambara & Bhulbhulaiya₹50
Chhota Imambara₹50
Wahid Biryani₹250
Prakash Kulfi₹80
Sharma Ji Ki Chai₹100
Saniya Palace Rooftop₹450
Agra Fort₹50
Mehtab Bagh₹25
Joney's Place₹300
Ghalib Kabab Corner₹250
Humayun's Tomb & Isa Khan's Tomb₹40
Sunder Nursery₹40
Karim's Nizamuddin₹600
Cafe Turtle Khan Market₹700
The Copper Chimney IGI Airport₹900
Estimated Total (per person)₹13,545
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