New Delhi to Tachilek 7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary (August 2023)

1. Day 1: New Delhi, India
   Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) to Jama Masjid
   Estimated time: 45 minutes (9.7 miles)

   In the morning, visit the iconic Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. In the afternoon, explore the bustling Chandni Chowk market nearby. In the evening, head to the Lotus Temple to admire its stunning architecture.

2. Day 2: Agra, India
   Jama Masjid to Agra Fort
   Estimated time: 3 hours (123 miles)

   In the morning, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Agra Fort, and its museums to learn about the Mughal Empire. In the afternoon, marvel at the iconic Taj Mahal. In the evening, head back to Delhi to catch an overnight bus to Varanasi.

3. Day 3: Varanasi, India
   ISBT Kashmere Gate to Varanasi Junction
   Estimated time: 14 hours (457 miles)

   In the morning, take a boat ride along the River Ganges and witness the locals perform their daily rituals. In the afternoon, visit the Ramnagar Fort and Museum. In the evening, attend the mesmerising Ganga Aarti ceremony.

4. Day 4: Mandalay, Myanmar
   Varanasi Junction to Mandalay International Airport
   Estimated time: 7 hours (547 miles)

   In the morning, visit the Mahamuni Buddha Temple and see the famous Buddha image covered in gold leaf. In the afternoon, explore the Mandalay Palace and its surrounding moat. In the evening, visit the Shwenandaw Monastery, also known as the Golden Palace Monastery.

5. Day 5: Bagan, Myanmar
   Mandalay to Bagan
   Estimated time: 3 hours (121 miles)

   In the morning, visit the Ananda Temple, one of the Bagan's most revered temples. In the afternoon, rent an e-bike and explore the vast Bagan Archaeological Zone. In the evening, watch the sunset from one of the temples.

6. Day 6: Inle Lake, Myanmar
   Bagan to Inle Lake
   Estimated time: 8 hours (223 miles)

   In the morning, take a boat ride around Inle Lake and visit the floating gardens and markets. In the afternoon, visit the Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda and the Indein Pagoda complex. In the evening, relax in the serene atmosphere of Inle Lake.

7. Day 7: Tachilek, Myanmar
   Inle Lake to Tachilek
   Estimated time: 6 hours (160 miles)

   In the morning, walk around the lively Tachileik Morning Market and buy some souvenirs. In the afternoon, visit the Tachileik Shwedagon Pagoda. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Shan-style meal before departing for your next adventure.

Recommendations

For an additional experience, consider taking a day trip to the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda in Myanmar, also known as the Golden Rock. You may also want to consider extending your trip to explore more of Southeast Asia, such as Laos, Cambodia or Vietnam. Don't forget to try the local street food and make use of public transportation to keep your costs low.

For hotel and flight bookings, check out https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo.