Begin your journey from Chennai Central Railway Station by catching a budget-friendly early morning train to reach Bangalore for your connecting flight.
Arrive at KSR Bengaluru Railway Station (Majestic) and grab a quick, affordable backpacker breakfast of idli and filter coffee at a local stall.
Head to the Kempegowda Bus Station to board the Vayu Vajra airport shuttle, providing a cost-effective and reliable transit to the airport.
Check in at Kempegowda International Airport and settle in at the terminal while preparing for your 3:00 PM flight to the spiritual city of Varanasi.
Grab a final affordable South Indian meal at the Kempegowda International Airport food court before clearing security for your flight.
Board your flight to Varanasi; sit back and enjoy the transition from the bustling tech hub of the south to the spiritual heart of the north.
Arrive at Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport and head to the bus stand outside to find a budget-friendly local bus or shared cab to the main city.
Check into a backpacker-friendly hostel near the river, such as Zostel Varanasi or goSTOPS Varanasi, to drop off your gear and settle into the spiritual vibe of the city.
Take a short late-night walk through the narrow, ancient alleys of Bengali Tola to find a local vendor serving a warm cup of Varanasi Masala Chai in a traditional clay kulhad.
Head down to the steps of Dashashwamedh Ghat to enjoy a few moments of quiet reflection by the dark waters of the Ganges River before returning to your hostel for a well-deserved rest.
Wake up early to witness the Subah-e-Banaras at Assi Ghat, where you can experience a soulful morning aarti, classical music, and Vedic chanting as the sun rises over the Ganges River.
Hop on a shared rowing boat from Assi Ghat for an affordable sunrise cruise along the riverfront, passing iconic landmarks like the Darbhanga Ghat and the historic Manikarnika Ghat.
Navigate the narrow labyrinthine alleys to find Ram Bhandar or Chachi Ki Kachori near Thatheri Bazar for a budget-friendly backpacker breakfast of spicy kachoris and sweet jalebis.
Visit the legendary Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Golden Temple); ensure you utilize the free locker facilities provided nearby for your belongings as you enter this high-security spiritual heart of the city.
Walk through the bustling Vishwanath Gali to browse for local handicrafts before heading to a shared auto-rickshaw stand to find a cheap ride toward the historical site of Sarnath.
Arrive at Sarnath and begin your historical exploration at the majestic Dhamekh Stupa, the exact spot where Lord Buddha is said to have delivered his first sermon.
Take a break for a budget-friendly lunch at Green Hut Restaurant or one of the small eateries near the Deer Park, offering simple and filling North Indian meals.
Explore the Sarnath Archaeological Museum to witness the original Lion Capital of Ashoka and an extensive collection of ancient Buddhist artifacts and sculptures.
Walk through the peaceful grounds of the Mulagandha Kuti Vihara, a modern Buddhist temple adorned with beautiful Japanese-style frescoes depicting the life of Buddha.
Conclude your afternoon tour with a visit to the Chaukhandi Stupa, a historic tiered structure built originally during the Gupta period, before boarding a shared auto back toward Varanasi Junction.
Arrive back from Sarnath and head straight to Dashashwamedh Ghat to secure a prime, free spot on the steps for the world-famous evening Ganga Aarti.
Experience the grand Ganga Aarti ceremony, where priests perform synchronized rituals with brass lamps and incense against the backdrop of the dark Ganges River.
Walk to the nearby Godowlia Crossing to indulge in a budget-friendly street food dinner, featuring the iconic Tamatar Chaat at the legendary Kashi Chat Bhandar.
Navigate the narrow alleys to find the Blue Lassi Shop near Manikarnika Ghat, treating yourself to a traditional clay-pot lassi topped with fresh malai and pomegranate.
Take a quiet night stroll to Panchganga Ghat, where you can observe the peaceful atmosphere of the riverfront away from the main crowds and see the towering Alamgir Mosque.
Return to your backpacker hostel, like Zostel Varanasi, to socialise with other travelers and rest up for your final full day in the spiritual capital.
Begin your day with a tranquil walk at Tulsi Ghat, where you can witness local wrestlers practicing in the traditional Akhada Sangam and enjoy a quieter side of the riverfront.
Walk toward the Lanka Gate entrance of the university to find affordable street vendors serving hot Poha and the seasonal winter specialty Malaiyo, a light and airy milk-based dessert.
Take a budget-friendly shared auto-rickshaw to enter the massive, tree-lined campus of Banaras Hindu University (BHU), admiring its distinct Indo-Gothic architectural style.
Visit the majestic New Vishwanath Temple (VT) located within the campus; this white marble structure is famous for having one of the tallest temple towers in India.
Explore the halls of Bharat Kala Bhavan, the university's renowned archaeological museum, which houses a spectacular collection of ancient Indian miniatures and sculptures.
Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch at the BHU Canteen or head to Pehalwan Lassi near Lanka Gate for their famous thick lassi and a plate of hot chole bhature.
Take a shared auto-rickshaw to the vibrant, red-colored Durga Kund Temple, also known as the Monkey Temple, to admire its classic North Indian Nagara architecture.
Walk a short distance to the Tulsi Manas Mandir, a serene white marble temple where the walls are beautifully engraved with the entire Ramcharitmanas.
Visit the nearby Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, one of the most sacred sites for locals, and soak in the spiritual atmosphere while being cautious of the resident monkeys.
Navigate toward the Godowlia Market area to browse through budget textile shops and witness local artisans working on intricate Banarasi Silk designs.
Head down to the riverfront at Scindia Ghat to see the famous partially submerged Shiva temple and enjoy the peaceful evening atmosphere as the river turns golden.
Walk through the historic Manikarnika Ghat from a respectful distance to observe the eternal cremation rituals, a profound and central experience for any backpacker in Varanasi.
Board a shared rickshaw to reach Baati Chokha Restaurant near Teliabagh for an authentic and budget-friendly dinner of wood-fired Baati and spicy Chokha.
Explore the vibrant Chowk area and stop at Shree Rajbandhu, a centuries-old sweet shop, to indulge in their signature Launglata, a traditional syrup-soaked pastry.
Take a final late-night stroll along the wide steps of Rajendra Prasad Ghat, soaking in the cool breeze and the lights of the city reflecting off the Ganges River.
Return to your hostel to socialise with other travelers and pack your bags for your upcoming early morning journey to Prayagraj.
Head to Varanasi Junction (BSB) early to catch a budget-friendly passenger train or an express rail service bound for the historic city of Prayagraj.
Board your train and enjoy the short 2.5 to 3-hour journey through the fertile plains of the Doab region, witnessing the rural landscape of Uttar Pradesh.
Arrive at Prayagraj Junction (PRYJ) and immediately seek out a shared e-rickshaw at the station exit for an affordable transit to your accommodation.
Check into a backpacker-friendly stay near Civil Lines or Chowk, such as Zostel Prayagraj, to drop off your luggage and settle in.
Head to the legendary Netram McGill (Netram Halwai) in Katra for a signature, budget-friendly meal of Allahabadi Kachori and thick curd, a local morning favorite.
Catch a shared e-rickshaw from Civil Lines towards the riverfront, passing the impressive Gothic-style All Saints Cathedral, also known as Patthar Girja.
Explore the outskirts of the massive Allahabad Fort and visit the Patalpuri Temple, an ancient underground shrine filled with various deities, located near the fort's eastern gate.
Walk down to the riverbank at Qila Ghat to negotiate a budget-friendly shared boat ride that will take you into the heart of the Triveni Sangam.
Experience the spiritual energy at the Triveni Sangam, the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers, while observing pilgrims performing rituals.
Visit the nearby Leto Hanuman Temple (Bade Hanuman Mandir), famous for its massive 81-foot-long reclining idol of Lord Hanuman, a unique site located right by the Sangam area.
Walk along the steps of Saraswati Ghat to enjoy the cool breeze and watch the sunset colors reflect off the Yamuna River as local families gather for evening strolls.
Walk to the nearby Shankar Viman Mandapam, a strikingly colorful multi-story temple near the Sangam, to admire its unique South Indian architectural style and intricate sculptures.
Take a shared rickshaw to the historic Chowk area of Prayagraj, where the narrow lanes come alive at night with local vendors selling everything from traditional perfumes to street snacks.
Head to Loknath Lane, a paradise for budget foodies, to grab a quick and delicious dinner of Nirala ki Chaat or a hearty plate of classic North Indian street food.
Indulge in a post-dinner glass of the famous thick Gulkand Lassi or a serving of creamy Rabri at one of the legendary milk stalls tucked away in the corners of Loknath.
Take a budget-friendly late-night stroll through the bustling Civil Lines market to see the illuminated clock tower at Subhash Chauraha before the shops close.
Return to your backpacker hostel to connect with other travelers in the common area and rest up for your exploration of the city's colonial history tomorrow.
Start your morning like a local in the Civil Lines area with a budget-friendly breakfast of Bun Makkhan and a cup of steaming ginger tea at a street-side stall.
Take a short walk to the expansive Alfred Park (officially Chandrashekhar Azad Park), where you can pay respects at the site of the legendary revolutionary's final stand against colonial forces.
Enter the Allahabad Museum, located within the park grounds, to explore its extensive galleries featuring prehistoric artifacts and personal items belonging to India's freedom fighters.
Head over to Anand Bhavan, the ancestral home of the Nehru-Gandhi family; this historic mansion-turned-museum offers a deep dive into the lives of those who shaped modern India for a very nominal entry fee.
Visit the adjacent Swaraj Bhavan, the birthplace of Indira Gandhi, to admire the colonial-era architecture and the well-preserved interiors that served as a headquarters for the Indian National Congress.
Head to the iconic Indian Coffee House in Civil Lines for a budget-friendly lunch; this historic establishment is a favorite among local backpackers for its old-world charm and affordable South Indian and Mughlai dishes.
Catch a shared auto-rickshaw to the magnificent Khusro Bagh, a large walled quadruple-garden burial complex featuring the exquisitely carved sandstone tombs of Prince Khusro and his family.
Embark on a walking tour of the University of Allahabad campus to see the Muir Central College, an architectural masterpiece with high minarets and domes that earned the city the title 'Oxford of the East'.
Visit the Public Library (also known as the Thornhill Mayne Memorial) located in Alfred Park, to admire its stunning Gothic revival architecture and peaceful reading rooms that house rare manuscripts.
Take a shared auto-rickshaw to the New Yamuna Bridge, where you can walk along the pedestrian path to enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the city skyline as the lights begin to twinkle over the Yamuna River.
Explore the vibrant lanes of Katra Market, a favorite spot for the city's student population, to find budget-friendly snacks and browse through local bookstores and street stalls.
Enjoy a hearty and affordable dinner at Eat On near Civil Lines, a legendary local joint famous for its mouth-watering Chicken Biryani and scorched Seekh Kebabs that won't break your backpacking budget.
Visit the famous Chappan Bhog in the Civil Lines area for a post-dinner treat, indulging in a glass of their signature thick Kesar Badam Milk while enjoying the brisk evening air.
Head back to your hostel, such as Zostel Prayagraj, to relax in the common area and finalize your transit plans for tomorrow's early journey to the holy city of Ayodhya.
Check out from your accommodation and head to Prayagraj Junction (PRYJ) early to board the Saryu Express or a similar budget-friendly passenger train bound for the holy city of Ayodhya.
Enjoy a simple backpacker breakfast of Aloo Puri and hot ginger tea purchased from a platform vendor, while watching the rural landscape of the Oudh region pass by through the train window.
Arrive at the newly renovated Ayodhya Dham Junction, taking a moment to admire its grand temple-inspired facade before catching a shared e-rickshaw toward the Hanumangarhi area.
Check into a budget-friendly guest house or 'Dharamshala' near the Saryu River, such as Shri Ram Janaki Birla Dharmshala, to drop off your backpack and freshen up.
Navigate the bustling, saffron-painted corridors of the Ram Path and head toward the main entrance of the Ram Janmabhoomi Complex, stopping to deposit your electronics at the free security lockers.
Enter the sacred grounds of the Ram Janmabhoomi Complex to witness the architectural brilliance of the newly inaugurated Ram Mandir and offer your prayers at the sanctum sanctorum.
Head to a local Annakshetra near the temple complex for a simple, budget-friendly 'Prasad' meal, or grab a quick plate of Samosas and Gulab Jamuns from a street stall in the Hanuman Garhi market.
Climb the 76 steps to the fortress-like Hanuman Garhi temple; this 10th-century shrine is the custom-mandated first stop for pilgrims before visiting the main Rama temple.
Walk through the vibrant lanes to visit Kanak Bhawan, also known as the Golden House, to admire its exquisite palace-style architecture and the beautiful golden-crowned idols of Rama and Sita.
Explore the historic Dashrath Mahal, the legendary site of King Dashrath's palace, where you can observe dedicated devotees participating in continuous rhythmic chanting and traditional bhajan sessions.
Make your way to the Ram Ki Paidi, a series of grand ghats along the Saryu River, to find a peaceful spot on the steps and watch the sunset illuminate the temple spires.
Witness the mesmerizing evening Saryu Aarti at Naya Ghat, where synchronized rituals with lamps and incense create a spiritual ambiance reflected in the sacred waters.
Walk toward the Lata Mangeshkar Chauraha to admire the massive, beautifully lit Veena Sculpture, which serves as a landmark tribute to the legendary singer.
Indulge in a budget-friendly dinner at Chandra Marwadi Thali or a local 'Bhojnalaya' near Tulsi Udyan, enjoying unlimited simple vegetarian food that caters to backpacking travelers.
Take a night stroll through the illuminated Ranamahal Ghat area and try a seasonal evening snack like Gajak or hot milk from the vendors lining the streets near Hanuman Garhi.
Return to your stay at the Shri Ram Janaki Birla Dharmshala or your local guest house to rest and soak in the tranquil, spiritual silence of the holy city at night.
Head to Ayodhya Dham Junction early to board a budget-friendly express train like the Vande Bharat or the Sutlej Express for your journey westward to the capital of Uttar Pradesh.
Enjoy a simple train breakfast of Bread Omelette or Upma from the onboard catering or a platform vendor while passing through the scenic rural landscapes of the Awadh region.
Arrive at the magnificent Lucknow Charbagh Railway Station, an architectural masterpiece that resembles a chessboard from above with its stunning domes and minarets.
Take the modern and affordable Lucknow Metro from Charbagh Metro Station to KD Singh Babu Stadium Station to reach the heart of the city efficiently.
Check into a budget-friendly backpacker hostel or guesthouse near the Chowk area, such as The Continental or a local homestay, to secure your luggage before starting your walking tour.
Head into the bustling lanes of Chowk for a legendary and budget-friendly lunch at the original Tunday Kababi, famous for its historic melt-in-the-mouth galouti kebabs.
Begin your heritage exploration at the massive Bara Imambara complex, an 18th-century architectural marvel known for its vaulted central hall built without any supporting pillars.
Challenge yourself to navigate the incredible Bhulbhulaiya (Labyrinth), a network of over a thousand interconnected passages located on the upper floors of the Bara Imambara.
Take a short walk to the majestic Rumi Darwaza, a 60-foot-tall ornate gateway that serves as the signature landmark and symbol of the city of Lucknow.
Visit the exquisitely decorated Chhota Imambara, also known as the Palace of Lights, to admire its stunning Belgian chandeliers and the calligraphic inscriptions on its facade.
Conclude your afternoon walk at the Husainabad Clock Tower, the tallest clock tower in India, and enjoy the views of the nearby Husainabad Talab and the Satkhanda watchtower.
Take a short rickshaw ride to the British Residency, where you can wander through the poignant ruins and manicured gardens that stand as a silent witness to the Siege of Lucknow during the 1857 uprising.
Head to the iconic Hazratganj market to partake in the local tradition of 'Ganj-ing,' a leisurely evening stroll along the Victorian-style lampposts and upscale storefronts of Lucknow's most famous street.
Navigate toward the bustling Aminabad Market to experience the sensory overload of one of India's oldest bazaars, making sure to browse the budget-friendly Chikan embroidery shops inside Nazirabad.
Walk over to Mubeen's at Akbari Gate for an authentic and affordable dinner of Nihari-Kulcha or slow-cooked Pasanda, a favorite for backpackers seeking true Old City flavors.
Cap off your culinary evening at the legendary Prakash Kulfi in Aminabad, enjoying a serving of their famous saffron-infused kulfi with silky falooda threads.
Return to your stay at The Continental or your local guesthouse, taking a moment to socialize in the common area and reflect on the rich Awadhi heritage encountered throughout the day.
Kickstart your day with a local favorite at Rattilal's in Lajpat Rai Market, indulging in a budget-friendly backpacker breakfast of spicy Khasta Kachori and hot ginger tea.
Take an affordable shared auto-rickshaw to the Ambedkar Memorial Park in Gomti Nagar, a vast and striking monument built entirely from red sandstone with massive stone elephants and grand stupas.
Explore the unique architectural fusion of French and Italian styles at La Martiniere College, an iconic educational institution and 18th-century palace built by Major General Claude Martin.
Visit the white-domed Shah Najaf Imambara, located on the banks of the Gomti River, to admire its serene gardens and the intricate silver tomb of Nawab Ghazi-ud-Din Haider.
Head to the legendary Wahid Biryani in the Aminabad area to enjoy a budget-friendly plate of authentic Awadhi Biryani, known for its fragrant spices and tender meat.
Take a shared auto-rickshaw to the Dilkusha Kothi, the evocative ruins of an 18th-century English-style country house set within vast, tranquil gardens.
Explore the diverse exhibits at the State Museum Lucknow located in Banarasi Bagh, which houses a remarkable collection of ancient artifacts, including a rare Egyptian mummy.
Enjoy a peaceful late afternoon walk at the Gomti Riverfront Park, where you can watch the sky change colors over the Gomti River and see the musical fountains begin to glow.
Head to the vibrant Janpath Market within Hazratganj to browse for high-quality yet budget-friendly Chikan work fabrics directly from local weavers.
Visit Jain Chat House near the historic Novelty Cinema to sample their legendary and affordable dahi bade and basket chaat, a favorite local evening snack.
Navigate to the legendary Idris Biryani in the Chowk area for a plate of their world-renowned, spice-rich mutton biryani, which remains a top choice for budget-conscious foodies.
Take a silent evening walk past the illuminated Rumi Darwaza to see the architectural landmark glowing under the night sky, providing a majestic and free visual experience.
Stop by a local tea stall near King George's Medical University to enjoy a final cup of Lucknowi Dum Chai while soaking in the late-night energy of the Old City.
Return to your hostel, such as The Continental, to rest and finalize your packing for tomorrow's early morning train journey to the city of the Taj, Agra.
Check out early from your Lucknow stay and head to Lucknow Charbagh Railway Station to catch the budget-friendly Lucknow - Agra Fort Intercity Express.
Board the train and settle into the Second Seating (2S) coach, a favorite for backpackers, as you begin the transit through the heart of the Braaj region.
Grab a quick and affordable breakfast of Aloo Puri or a Bread Omelette from a platform vendor during a brief halt at Kanpur Central Railway Station.
Arrive at Agra Fort Railway Station, where you can catch your first glimpse of the massive red sandstone ramparts of the Agra Fort right outside the station exit.
Take a shared e-rickshaw to the Taj Ganj area to check into a backpacker-friendly hostel like Zostel Agra or Moustache Agra, ensuring you drop your gear before the afternoon heat.
Head out for an affordable lunch at Joney's Place in Taj Ganj, a legendary backpacker haunt famous for its budget-friendly toasted sandwiches and creamy lassis.
Walk to the grand entrance of the Agra Fort and purchase a ticket to explore this sprawling 16th-century Mughal citadel built mainly from red sandstone.
Explore the intricate carvings within the Jahangir Mahal and visit the Musamman Burj, where you can see the distant silhouette of the Taj Mahal from the same vantage point as the exiled Emperor Shah Jahan.
Catch a shared auto-rickshaw for a scenic ride across the Ambedkar Bridge to reach the northern banks of the Yamuna River.
Enter the serene Mehtab Bagh (Moonlight Garden) to enjoy a budget-friendly and crowds-free view of the Taj Mahal as the afternoon light begins to soften and turn golden.
Watch the sunset from the riverside banks near Mehtab Bagh, providing a mesmerizing and free view of the Taj Mahal as its white marble reflects the changing colors of the evening sky.
Catch a shared auto-rickshaw back across the river toward Sadar Bazar, Agra's most popular evening haunt for locals and travelers alike.
Indulge in a budget-friendly street food dinner at Mama Chicken Mama Franky in Sadar Bazar, or explore the nearby Chaat Gali for spicy Bhalla and local snacks.
Visit the original Panchi Petha store near the Agra Cantonment area to sample and buy the city's iconic ash gourd sweet in flavors like kesar, angori, and chocolate.
Take a short night walk near the Agra Fort area to see the massive red sandstone walls illuminated from the outside, creating a dramatic atmosphere against the dark sky.
Return to your backpacker hostel, such as Zostel Agra or Moustache Agra, to settle in early and prepare for a very early wakeup call for tomorrow's sunrise entry into the Taj Mahal.
Wake up early and head to the East Gate of the Taj Mahal to be among the first in line for a breath-taking sunrise view of this white marble wonder.
Explore the intricate details of the Taj Mahal gardens and the flanking red sandstone buildings, capturing photos as the morning light shifts across the iconic dome.
Walk back into the Taj Ganj area for a quintessential backpacker breakfast of Bedai and Sabzi with a side of sweet Jalebis at an affordable local stall.
Return to your hostel, such as Zostel Agra, to quickly freshen up, collect your backpack, and complete the check-out process for your transit to the capital.
Take a budget-friendly shared auto-rickshaw to Agra Cantt Railway Station to catch a fast and affordable train like the Taj Express or the Intercity Express bound for Delhi.
Board your train and enjoy the 2.5 to 3-hour rail journey through the plains of Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, catching glimpses of the peri-urban landscape of North India.
Arrive at Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station (NZM) and navigate toward the Pink Line of the Delhi Metro for an affordable and efficient transit into the heart of the capital.
Check into a backpacker-friendly hostel in the Paharganj or South Delhi area, such as Joey's Hostel or Moustache Delhi, to drop off your luggage and settle in.
Head to Paharganj's narrow lanes for a signature budget meal of bread and chickpeas at the legendary Sita Ram Diwan Chand, a favorite spot for travelers seeking authentic local flavor.
Take the metro back toward the Nizamuddin area to explore the majestic Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the grand red sandstone precursor to the Taj Mahal.
Walk through the lush, eco-historic Sunder Nursery, a beautifully restored 16th-century heritage park featuring stunning Mughal-era monuments and peaceful water channels.
Wander through the narrow, vibrant alleys of the Nizamuddin Basti, stopping to see the intricate marble work of the Chausath Khamba before heading toward the center of the village.
Step into the heart of the Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah to witness the evening prayers and the spiritual energy as the marble courtyard fills with the scent of incense and fresh roses.
Find a quiet spot on the floor to soak in the atmosphere of the Sufi Dargah; if you're lucky with the schedule, you might hear the soul-stirring sounds of live qawwali echoing through the shrine.
Indulge in a budget-friendly and iconic dinner at Ghalib Kabab Corner or Moradabadi Biryani within the narrow lanes of the Nizamuddin Basti, famous for authentic melt-in-the-mouth buffalo kebabs.
Take a short auto-rickshaw ride to India Gate to see the National War Memorial and the grand ceremonial axis of Kartavya Path beautifully illuminated against the night sky.
Board the Delhi Metro at Khan Market Station to return to your backpacker hostel in Paharganj, like Joey's Hostel, and share stories with fellow travelers before your final day.
Start your final morning in Delhi with a classic backpacker breakfast of crispy bread and spicy chickpeas at a local stall in the Paharganj Main Bazaar.
Board the Delhi Metro Yellow Line from New Delhi Metro Station to Chawri Bazar, descending into one of the deepest underground stations to reach the heart of Old Delhi.
Walk through the bustling streets to visit the majestic Jama Masjid, taking time to admire the grand Mughal architecture and the vast courtyard that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding city.
Navigate the narrow, sensory-rich lanes of Dariba Kalan, the historic silver market, where you can browse for affordable jewelry and sample traditional scents at the ancient Gulab Singh Johrimal perfumery.
Explore the vibrant and chaotic Kinari Bazar, a paradise for photographers and backpackers interested in finding budget-friendly, handcrafted textile trimmings and traditional Indian wedding decorations.
Head to the legendary Paranthe Wali Gali in Chandni Chowk for a feast of budget-friendly, deep-fried stuffed paranthas served with complimentary pumpkin curry and spicy pickles.
Navigate through the chaotic but colorful lanes to Khari Baoli, Asia's largest wholesale spice market, where you can witness the massive sacks of chilies and turmeric being traded.
Take a photo stop outside the majestic Red Fort (Lal Qila) to admire its massive red sandstone ramparts before walking toward the Fatehpuri Masjid to see its quiet, historical courtyard.
Conclude your Old Delhi food journey at the Old Famous Jalebi Wala near the Dariba Kalan corner, indulging in their signature thick, syrup-dripping jalebis.
Make your way back to your hostel in Paharganj via a shared auto-rickshaw to collect your backpack and say a final goodbye to the fellow travelers in the lounge.
Head to the New Delhi Metro Station to board the Delhi Airport Metro Express Line, the fastest and most budget-friendly way to reach the airport within 20 minutes.
Arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport (Terminal 3) and proceed to the check-in counters for your 7:30 PM flight back to Chennai, marking the end of your 11-day backpacking journey.
Complete your security screening at Indira Gandhi International Airport and settle in near the gate to recharge your phone and organize your favorite photos from the trip.
Board your flight from Delhi to Chennai, leaving behind the cold winter air of the north as you settle in for the three-hour flight back home.
Arrive safely at Chennai International Airport (MAA), moving through the terminal to catch the budget-friendly Chennai Metro or a local cab for the final stretch of your journey.
Return to your home in Chennai, bringing a definitive end to your 11-day budget backpacking exploration of the historic and spiritual landscapes of Uttar Pradesh.
| Place / Activity | Cost |
|---|---|
| Vayu Vajra Airport Shuttle | ₹250 |
| Varanasi Masala Chai | ₹20 |
| Morning Boat Cruise at Assi Ghat | ₹200 |
| Breakfast at Ram Bhandar or Chachi Ki Kachori | ₹80 |
| Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple | Free |
| Dhamekh Stupa (Sarnath Archaeological Site) | ₹25 |
| Sarnath Archaeological Museum | ₹5 |
| Mulagandha Kuti Vihara | Free |
| Chaukhandi Stupa | ₹25 |
| Tamatar Chaat at Kashi Chat Bhandar | ₹50 |
| Blue Lassi Shop | ₹100 |
| Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum | ₹20 |
| New Vishwanath Temple (BHU) | Free |
| Pehalwan Lassi at Lanka Gate | ₹80 |
| Durga Kund Temple | Free |
| Baati Chokha Restaurant | ₹300 |
| Allahabadi Kachori at Netram Halwai | ₹150 |
| Boat ride to Triveni Sangam | ₹150 |
| Leto Hanuman Temple | Free |
| Shankar Viman Mandapam | Free |
| Allahabad Museum | ₹50 |
| Anand Bhavan | ₹70 |
| Swaraj Bhavan | ₹10 |
| Indian Coffee House Civil Lines | ₹250 |
| Khusro Bagh | Free |
| Ram Janmabhoomi Complex | Free |
| Hanuman Garhi | Free |
| Kanak Bhawan | Free |
| Galouti Kebabs at Tunday Kababi | ₹150 |
| Bara Imambara & Bhulbhulaiya | ₹50 |
| Chhota Imambara | Free |
| British Residency लखनऊ | ₹25 |
| Prakash Kulfi Aminabad | ₹60 |
| Ambedkar Memorial Park | ₹10 |
| State Museum Lucknow | ₹20 |
| Agra Fort | ₹50 |
| Mehtab Bagh | ₹25 |
| Taj Mahal | ₹250 |
| Sita Ram Diwan Chand Paharganj | ₹100 |
| Humayun's Tomb | ₹40 |
| Sunder Nursery Heritage Park | ₹50 |
| Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah | Free |
| Jama Masjid Delhi | Free |
| Paranthe Wali Gali | ₹150 |
| Old Famous Jalebi Wala | ₹80 |
| Estimated Total (per person) | ₹3945 |