Dibrugarh to Delhi, Amritsar, Agra, Varanasi and Gaya

Day 1 · Wed, Feb 3
Delhi

Travel from Dibrugarh to Delhi

  1. Flight from Dibrugarh to Delhi — Dibrugarh Airport to Indira Gandhi International Airport; take a morning flight and allow roughly 4–5 hours or more, depending on the service and connection.
  2. New Delhi Railway Station — Paharganj; transfer from the airport to your hotel near the station and keep the evening light, allowing about 1–1.5 hours for the drive.
  3. Ajmal Khan Road — Karol Bagh; browse the local shops if you have energy, for about an hour.
  4. Sita Ram Diwan Chand — Paharganj; try its chole bhature for dinner, roughly ₹150–300 per person.

Morning — Dibrugarh to Delhi

Take a morning flight from Dibrugarh Airport (DIB) to Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL). Allow roughly 4–5 hours or more, depending on the service and any connection, and check your arrival terminal before arranging a pickup. After landing, leave around 1–1½ hours for the drive into central Delhi; traffic can make the journey longer, so a pre-booked cab or app-based taxi is easiest with luggage.

Afternoon — Check in, then Karol Bagh

Head to your hotel near New Delhi Railway Station in Paharganj, drop your bags and take a breather before going out. If you’re feeling up to it, continue by cab or auto to Ajmal Khan Road in Karol Bagh for about an hour of browsing; allow roughly 20–40 minutes each way, depending on traffic. Shop hours vary, but many stores are open into the evening. Keep this flexible if your flight is delayed or you’re tired.

Early evening — Chole bhature in Paharganj

Return to Sita Ram Diwan Chand in Paharganj for its well-known chole bhature, usually around ₹150–300 per person. One important timing check: this is primarily a daytime favourite, and it may close well before a conventional dinner hour. Confirm its hours on the day and, if it’s open, eat here as an early meal rather than counting on a late dinner; the flight and cross-city transfers can easily push your evening back.

Day 2 · Thu, Feb 4
Amritsar

Travel to Amritsar

Getting there from Delhi
Train: book a morning New Delhi–Amritsar service such as the Amritsar Shatabdi (12013) or a Vande Bharat if its timetable suits. Allow about 6–7 hours; roughly ₹1,000–₹2,000 in chair car. Book via IRCTC or 12Go. A morning departure fits the planned daytime journey.
  1. Train from New Delhi to Amritsar — Board a daytime train; allow about 6–7 hours and arrive at Amritsar Junction, arranging onward transport to your aunt’s home.
  2. Amritsar Junction area — Amritsar; settle in and take a short, easy walk nearby, about 30 minutes.
  3. Kanha Sweets — Lawrence Road; an easy stop for familiar Punjabi snacks or sweets, roughly ₹150–350 per person.
  4. Aunt’s home — Amritsar; keep the evening for rest and family time.

Arrival and an easy reset

After your daytime train reaches Amritsar Junction, collect your bags and arrange an auto-rickshaw or app cab to your aunt’s home; the station can be busy, so agree on the pickup point before leaving the platform. Once you’ve settled in, keep the planned half-hour stroll around the Amritsar Junction area genuinely easy—stay close to the station and skip it if the train runs late or everyone is tired.

Lawrence Road stop

When you’re ready, take an auto or cab to Kanha Sweets on Lawrence Road; it’s not a practical walk from the station. Pick up familiar Punjabi snacks or sweets to share at home, budgeting roughly ₹150–350 per person. Hours can vary, so check that it’s open before setting out, especially if your train arrives in the evening.

Evening with family

Head to your aunt’s home for a quiet evening and family time rather than adding more sightseeing. February evenings in Amritsar can feel chilly, so keep a warm layer handy and leave the bags unpacking for another day.

Day 3 · Fri, Feb 5
Amritsar

Stay in Amritsar

  1. Durgiana Temple — Goal Bagh; visit this serene Hindu temple in the morning, about an hour.
  2. Hall Bazaar — Old City; browse the busy market and its traditional shops, about 1–1.5 hours.
  3. Golden Temple — Old City; visit mid-morning when the marble is less cold, allowing 1.5–2 hours and time for the langar.
  4. Jallianwala Bagh — Old City; reflect at this historic memorial nearby, about an hour.
  5. Kesar Da Dhaba — Chowk Passian; enjoy a classic Punjabi dinner, roughly ₹300–600 per person.

Morning — Durgiana Temple and Hall Bazaar

Start around 8am at Durgiana Temple in Goal Bagh. The serene marble complex is usually open from early morning until evening, and there’s no entry fee; leave footwear at the shoe counter before going in. Allow about an hour, then take an auto or e-rickshaw (roughly 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic) to Hall Bazaar. Give yourself an hour or so to browse its traditional shops and busy lanes; it’s a good place to look for phulkari, juttis and local snacks, but agree on prices before buying.

Late morning and afternoon — Golden Temple and Jallianwala Bagh

Head into the Old City for the Golden Temple, aiming for mid-morning so the marble has warmed up a little. Set aside 1.5–2 hours for the complex and, if you like, a simple meal at the free langar; donations are welcome. Cover your head, remove your shoes and wash your feet at the entrance. From there, Jallianwala Bagh is a short walk away. Allow about an hour to visit the memorial and spend time with its history; check the on-site timings on arrival, as access hours can vary.

Evening — dinner at Kesar Da Dhaba

Take an auto-rickshaw to Kesar Da Dhaba in Chowk Passian for a classic Punjabi dinner; allow roughly ₹300–600 per person, depending on what you order. The lanes around the dhaba can be congested, so it’s often easier to get dropped nearby and walk the final stretch. After a full day, head back to your aunt’s by auto or app cab rather than trying to fit in another stop.

Day 4 · Sat, Feb 6
Amritsar

Stay in Amritsar

  1. Gobindgarh Fort — Old City; explore the fort’s history and exhibits, about 2–3 hours.
  2. Ram Bagh Gardens — Mall Road; take a gentle garden stroll, about an hour.
  3. Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum — Ram Bagh; see exhibits on the Sikh Empire, about an hour.
  4. Bharawan Da Dhaba — Town Hall; have a traditional Punjabi lunch, roughly ₹250–500 per person.

Morning — Gobindgarh Fort

Start around 9am at Gobindgarh Fort in the Old City, when you’ll have cooler weather and time to explore without rushing. Allow 2–3 hours for the ramparts, historical exhibits and live demonstrations if operating. Entry is typically around ₹100–₹200 for Indian adults, with some attractions or shows costing extra; check the day’s timings at the gate. Take an auto or app cab from your aunt’s home, and keep your ticket handy if you want to re-enter any sections.

Late morning — Ram Bagh Gardens and Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum

From the fort, take an auto or cab toward Mall Road—allow roughly 15–25 minutes, depending on Old City traffic. Stretch your legs with an easy hour-long wander through Ram Bagh Gardens, then visit the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum within the garden grounds for an hour of Sikh Empire history. Museum hours can vary; it is commonly open during daytime and closed on Mondays, so confirm locally before setting out. The garden stroll is a welcome quieter break after the fort.

Lunch — Bharawan Da Dhaba

Head to Bharawan Da Dhaba near Town Hall for a hearty Punjabi lunch; from Ram Bagh, a cab or auto usually takes about 10–20 minutes. Budget roughly ₹250–₹500 per person, and expect a busy dining room around lunchtime. Try a thali or a classic paneer dish with kulcha, and take the rest of the afternoon at an unhurried pace.

Day 5 · Sun, Feb 7
Amritsar

Stay in Amritsar

  1. Pul Kanjari — Near the India–Pakistan border; visit this historic complex in the morning, allowing about 1–1.5 hours plus the drive.
  2. Wagah–Attari Border — Attari; arrive well before the flag-lowering ceremony for security and seating, allowing 2–3 hours.
  3. A local dhaba on the Attari road — Attari road; pause for a simple Punjabi meal on the return, roughly ₹200–400 per person.
  4. Aunt’s home — Amritsar; leave the evening open for recovery after the border outing.

Morning —Pul Kanjari**

Make an early start for Pul Kanjari, about 35–40 km from central Amritsar; allow roughly 50–75 minutes each way by car, depending on traffic and the route. A pre-booked cab is the easiest option for the day, especially with the border visit afterward. This historic complex is associated with Maharaja Ranjit Singh and includes a pond, temple and mosque; plan for about 1–1½ hours to explore. Check local access arrangements before setting out, and bring ID, water and sun protection.

Afternoon — Wagah–Attari Border

Continue to Wagah–Attari Border at Attari. The ceremony time changes with the season, so confirm the day’s schedule locally; aim to arrive at least 2–3 hours beforehand for security checks and seating. Keep your ID handy, travel light, and expect a crowd and some walking from the drop-off and parking area. Leave valuables in the car where possible, and follow staff directions about permitted belongings and seating.

Return — A local dhaba on the Attari road, then home

On the way back, stop at a local dhaba on the Attari road for a straightforward Punjabi meal—budget about ₹200–400 per person. Service can be busy after the ceremony, so keep the stop relaxed rather than relying on a fixed return time. Then head back to your aunt’s home in Amritsar and leave the evening free to rest; the border outing makes for a full day.

Day 6 · Mon, Feb 8
Amritsar

Stay in Amritsar

  1. Khalsa College — Grand Trunk Road; admire the striking campus architecture from the visitor-accessible areas, about an hour.
  2. Company Bagh — Mall Road; enjoy an unhurried walk in the city’s central garden, about an hour.
  3. Novelty Sweets — Lawrence Road; stop for chaat or sweets, roughly ₹150–350 per person.
  4. Lawrence Road market — Lawrence Road; browse local shops at a relaxed pace, about an hour.

Morning — Khalsa College

Start around 9am at Khalsa College on Grand Trunk Road. Its red-brick buildings and ornate arches are especially striking in the soft morning light; allow about an hour to admire the architecture from visitor-accessible areas. It’s an active educational campus, so be discreet, follow any security instructions and don’t assume every building or courtyard is open to visitors. An auto-rickshaw or app cab from central Amritsar is the easiest way to get there.

Late morning — Company Bagh

Take a cab or auto to Company Bagh on Mall Road for an easy, unhurried hour among the trees and garden paths. February afternoons can be pleasant, but mornings are cool, so bring a light layer. Entry is generally free; check locally for any temporary closures or restricted sections.

Lunch and afternoon — Novelty Sweets and Lawrence Road market

Head to Novelty Sweets on Lawrence Road for chaat, snacks or something sweet; budget roughly ₹150–350 per person, depending on what you order. Then browse the Lawrence Road market at a relaxed pace for about an hour—shops are close together, so there’s no need to rush. If you’re buying anything, compare a couple of prices, and keep some cash handy for smaller purchases. A short walk between the food stop and nearby shops is usually easiest; use an auto or cab back to your aunt’s home when you’re ready.

Day 7 · Tue, Feb 9
Amritsar

Stay in Amritsar

  1. Sadda Pind — Airport Road; experience a recreated Punjabi village setting and performances, allowing 3–4 hours.
  2. Sadda Pind dining area — Airport Road; sample Punjabi dishes during your visit, roughly ₹500–900 per person.
  3. Mata Lal Devi Temple — Rani Ka Bagh; visit this distinctive cave-style temple, about an hour.
  4. Aunt’s home — Amritsar; keep the evening quiet after a full outing.

Late morning — Sadda Pind

Make this a relaxed start: Sadda Pind is on Airport Road, a drive of roughly 20–30 minutes from central Amritsar, depending on traffic. A cab or app-based ride is easiest; arrange a pickup time for the return, since rides can be less convenient once you’re ready to leave. Allow 3–4 hours to wander through the recreated Punjabi village setting and catch performances. Show timings and entry prices can vary, so check the venue’s current schedule before setting out.

Lunch — Sadda Pind dining area

Eat within the complex rather than rushing elsewhere. Set aside around ₹500–900 per person for Punjabi dishes, and pace yourselves: there’s plenty to see before and after lunch.

Afternoon — Mata Lal Devi Temple

Take a cab to Mata Lal Devi Temple in Rani Ka Bagh; allow about 25–35 minutes from Sadda Pind, traffic permitting, then give the temple around an hour. Its winding, cave-like passages make it a very different visit from Amritsar’s larger shrines. Remove your shoes where directed, and take your time on the steps and uneven sections.

Evening — Aunt’s home

Head back to your aunt’s home for a quiet evening after a full day out. Keep the temple visit unhurried, and check local traffic before leaving Rani Ka Bagh—the drive back can take longer around the evening rush.

Day 8 · Wed, Feb 10
Amritsar

Stay in Amritsar

  1. Tarn Taran Sahib — Tarn Taran; visit the historic gurdwara and its large sacred pool, allowing about 1.5 hours plus travel.
  2. Goindwal Sahib — Goindwal; see the historic baoli and gurdwara, about 1–1.5 hours.
  3. A roadside Punjabi dhaba near Goindwal — Goindwal area; stop for a relaxed lunch, roughly ₹200–400 per person.
  4. Aunt’s home — Amritsar; return by late afternoon and rest.

Morning — Tarn Taran Sahib

Set aside the day for a countryside outing, with a cab and driver booked in advance from your aunt’s home. Leave around 7:30am; Tarn Taran Sahib is roughly 25 km away, usually a 40–60-minute drive depending on traffic. At the gurdwara, cover your head, remove your shoes, and follow the shoe-storage and washing arrangements at the entrance. Allow about 1½ hours to visit the shrine and take in the broad sacred pool; keep the visit unhurried and dress modestly.

Late morning — Goindwal Sahib and lunch

Continue to Goindwal Sahib, around 30–40 minutes farther by road. Allow 1–1½ hours for the gurdwara and its historic baoli. There are steps down to the well, so your father can skip the descent if it feels uncomfortable and still enjoy the site from above. For lunch, ask your driver for a busy, clean Punjabi dhaba nearby rather than choosing an empty roadside stop; expect around ₹200–400 per person for a simple meal. Keep some cash handy, and check what’s freshly prepared before ordering.

Afternoon — Back to Amritsar

Head back after lunch; allow roughly 1–1½ hours to reach your aunt’s home, depending on traffic. Aim to be back by late afternoon for a proper rest—the day involves more driving and walking than it may seem, and there’s no need to add another stop. Confirm the driver’s pickup and waiting arrangements before setting off, and carry water and a warm layer for the February morning.

Day 9 · Thu, Feb 11
Amritsar

Stay in Amritsar

  1. Harike Wetland — Near Harike; look for wintering waterbirds on a morning visit, allowing 2–3 hours including the drive.
  2. A local Punjabi dhaba near Harike — Harike area; have a simple lunch before returning, roughly ₹200–400 per person.
  3. Aunt’s home — Amritsar; leave the afternoon free for family time.
  4. Amritsar neighbourhood walk — Near home; take a gentle early-evening stroll, about 30–45 minutes.

Morning — Harike Wetland

Set out early from your aunt’s home for Harike Wetland, around 60–65 km southwest of central Amritsar. Arrange a car and driver in advance; the drive usually takes 1½–2 hours each way, depending on traffic and road conditions. Aim to arrive around 8:30–9am, when wintering waterbirds are most active. Give yourselves 2–3 hours to explore the wetland edge and observation areas at an unhurried pace. Entry and access arrangements can vary, so check locally before setting off; bring binoculars if you have them, plus warm layers and water.

Lunch and a quiet afternoon

On the way back, stop at a local Punjabi dhaba near Harike for a simple, filling lunch—allow roughly ₹200–400 per person. Ask your driver which place is busy with local families that day, and check what’s freshly prepared; parathas, dal and seasonal sabzi are good bets. Then return to your aunt’s home and keep the afternoon open for a proper rest and family time. It’s a long drive day, so there’s no need to squeeze in another outing.

Early evening — Neighbourhood walk

If everyone feels up to it, take a gentle Amritsar neighbourhood walk near home for 30–45 minutes before dinner. Let your aunt choose the lane or nearby market she likes; local streets are often at their liveliest around this time, and you’ll get a more relaxed feel for everyday Amritsar than from another sightseeing stop. Wear comfortable shoes and turn back whenever the cold or tiredness sets in.

Day 10 · Fri, Feb 12
Amritsar

Stay in Amritsar

  1. Maharaja Ranjit Singh Panorama — Ram Bagh; revisit the Sikh Empire’s history through the panorama exhibits, about 1–1.5 hours.
  2. Ram Tirath Temple — Ram Tirath Road; explore the temple complex and its grounds, allowing about 1.5 hours plus travel.
  3. A local vegetarian restaurant near Ram Tirath — Ram Tirath Road; have lunch before heading back, roughly ₹200–450 per person.
  4. Aunt’s home — Amritsar; keep the rest of the day flexible for family time.

Morning — Maharaja Ranjit Singh Panorama

Head to the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Panorama in Ram Bagh around 9:30am, after checking locally that it’s open that day; museum hours and entry arrangements can change, and admission is usually modest—budget roughly ₹20–₹100 per person. Allow 1–1.5 hours for the displays on the Sikh Empire and its history. From your aunt’s home, an auto-rickshaw or app cab is easiest; ask the driver to drop you at the Ram Bagh entrance, as the grounds are spacious.

Late morning and lunch — Ram Tirath Temple

Continue by pre-booked cab or app taxi to Ram Tirath Temple on Ram Tirath Road—allow around 30–45 minutes each way, depending on traffic, and about 1.5 hours to explore the complex and grounds. It’s on the outskirts, so confirm your return pickup before you start walking around. Dress modestly and bring water; February afternoons are generally pleasant, but the site has open stretches. For lunch, choose a simple local vegetarian restaurant near Ram Tirath; budget about ₹200–₹450 per person, and check what’s open before settling in.

Afternoon — Family time

Return to your aunt’s home and leave the rest of the day unplanned. After several outings, a quiet afternoon and a relaxed meal with family will make a welcome change; keep a little buffer for the drive back, especially if traffic builds on the way into town.

Day 11 · Sat, Feb 13
Amritsar

Stay in Amritsar

  1. Amritsar Partition Museum research and reading room — Town Hall; use time for any exhibits or archival material you missed, about 1–1.5 hours.
  2. Amritsar Heritage Street — Old City; stroll the pedestrian route toward the Golden Temple, about an hour.
  3. Giani Tea Stall — Near Town Hall; stop for tea and a light snack, roughly ₹100–250 per person.
  4. Aunt’s home — Amritsar; pack and enjoy a final evening with family.

Late Morning — Partition Museum research and reading room

Return to the Partition Museum at Town Hall for a quieter visit to any exhibits you missed or time with its reading-room and archival material. Allow 1–1½ hours; check the museum’s current opening hours and research-room access before setting out, as these can differ from general gallery hours. Admission is usually modest, but confirm any reading-room requirements or fees directly with the museum.

Afternoon — Heritage Street and tea

From Town Hall, stroll along Heritage Street toward the Golden Temple, taking about an hour at an easy pace. The pedestrian route is best enjoyed without a tight schedule; watch your footing on busy stretches and pause for the old-city shopfronts and details along the way. Then stop at Giani Tea Stall, near Town Hall, for tea and a light snack—budget roughly ₹100–₹250 per person. It’s a handy spot to sit down before heading home; use an auto-rickshaw or app cab for the ride if you’d rather not walk back.

Evening — Back to your aunt’s home

Head to your aunt’s home with time to pack and enjoy a relaxed final evening with family. Keep your travel documents and next-day train essentials together, and ask your aunt to help arrange a station ride for the morning so you’re not sorting transport at the last minute.

Day 12 · Sun, Feb 14
Delhi

Travel from Amritsar to Delhi

Getting there from Amritsar
Train: take a daytime Amritsar–New Delhi Shatabdi or Vande Bharat service, around 6–7 hours and roughly ₹1,000–₹2,000 in chair car. Book via IRCTC or 12Go. Choose a morning departure to leave time for your Delhi evening; check the arrival time before relying on the later activities.
  1. Train from Amritsar to Delhi — Travel to New Delhi Railway Station; allow roughly 6–7 hours, and arrange a taxi or pre-booked transfer to your hotel.
  2. Connaught Place — Central Delhi; take an easy orientation walk around the colonnades, about an hour.
  3. Indian Coffee House — Mohan Singh Place, Connaught Place; have a simple dinner in this long-running café, roughly ₹200–400 per person.
  4. Jantar Mantar — Connaught Place; if you arrive early enough, visit the historic observatory, about an hour.

Arrival and Connaught Place

After the 6–7-hour train ride, collect your bags at New Delhi Railway Station and take a pre-booked cab or app taxi to your hotel; allow 20–40 minutes depending on traffic. Once you’ve checked in, head to Connaught Place for an easy hour beneath its white colonnades. Keep the walk relaxed after the journey, and expect busy pavements and traffic around the inner and outer circles.

Dinner and an evening note

Have a simple dinner at Indian Coffee House, inside Mohan Singh Place in Connaught Place; budget around ₹200–400 per person. It’s a no-frills old Delhi institution, good for a hot coffee and a straightforward meal. Jantar Mantar is nearby, but its observatory grounds generally close by early evening, so this visit only works if your train arrives early enough to fit it in before closing—check the day’s hours and last entry locally. If you reach Delhi later, don’t count on getting inside after dinner; leave the observatory for another day rather than rushing.

Day 13 · Mon, Feb 15
Delhi

Stay in Delhi

  1. Jama Masjid — Old Delhi; visit in the morning and dress respectfully, about an hour.
  2. Chandni Chowk — Old Delhi; explore the historic lanes and markets, about 1.5 hours.
  3. Paranthe Wali Gali — Chandni Chowk; try a traditional stuffed paratha lunch, roughly ₹200–400 per person.
  4. Red Fort — Old Delhi; tour the Mughal fort complex in the afternoon, about 2 hours.
  5. Karim’s — Near Jama Masjid; enjoy Mughlai dinner, roughly ₹400–800 per person.

Morning — Jama Masjid and the old lanes

Head to Jama Masjid around 8am, before Old Delhi’s lanes get crowded. Allow about an hour; dress modestly, remove your shoes at the entrance and check the current visitor fee, which may be around ₹300 for foreign visitors, with separate charges sometimes applying for photography. From there, walk into Chandni Chowk and spend about 1½ hours wandering its busy market lanes. It’s easiest to explore on foot, but watch for cycle-rickshaws and uneven paving; keep valuables secure and don’t feel you need to cover every alley.

Lunch and afternoon — Paranthe Wali Gali and Red Fort

For lunch, make your way to Paranthe Wali Gali for a stuffed paratha meal; budget roughly ₹200–₹400 per person. Then walk or take a short cycle-rickshaw ride to the Red Fort for the planned two-hour visit. One important date check: Red Fort is normally closed on Mondays, and 15 February 2027 falls on a Monday. Confirm the current ASI schedule before setting out; if it is closed, you can admire the exterior and grounds from outside, but the interior tour will need to move to another day.

Evening — dinner at Karim’s

Finish at Karim’s, near Jama Masjid, for Mughlai dishes; allow roughly ₹400–₹800 per person. From the fort area, take an auto-rickshaw or cab back toward the mosque rather than walking through the lanes after dark. Old Delhi can be slow-moving in the evening, so leave a little extra time for the ride and check closing hours locally before you go.

Day 14 · Tue, Feb 16
Delhi

Stay in Delhi

  1. Humayun’s Tomb — Nizamuddin; explore the garden tomb and its surrounding complex, about 1.5–2 hours.
  2. Sunder Nursery — Nizamuddin; stroll the restored heritage garden, about 1.5 hours.
  3. Nizamuddin Dargah — Nizamuddin West; visit respectfully and check the day’s access arrangements, about an hour.
  4. The Lodhi — Lodhi Road; have dinner at this contemporary Indian restaurant, roughly ₹1,000–2,000 per person.

Morning — Humayun’s Tomb

Start around 9am at Humayun’s Tomb in Nizamuddin; it’s generally open from sunrise to sunset, and the quiet gardens are a lovely way to begin the day. Allow 1½–2 hours for the tomb and surrounding buildings. Entry for Indian visitors is typically about ₹35, with a higher fee for international visitors; check the current rate and ticketing arrangements before you go. A cab or auto from central Delhi is easiest, and the main entrance has a convenient drop-off.

Late morning and afternoon — Sunder Nursery and Nizamuddin Dargah

Walk or take a short cab ride to Sunder Nursery, next door to the tomb complex. Give yourself about 1½ hours to wander its restored gardens, water features and heritage structures; entry is usually around ₹50 for Indian adults, though rates can vary. Have a relaxed lunch nearby, then continue to Nizamuddin Dargah in Nizamuddin West—a short ride, but allow extra time for traffic and the busy approach lanes. Dress modestly, cover your head, and follow local guidance on access and where visitors may go. The shrine is active, so keep the visit quiet and respectful; Tuesday is not the usual evening for the best-known qawwali gatherings.

Evening — Dinner at The Lodhi

Take a cab to The Lodhi on Lodhi Road for dinner; allow roughly 15–25 minutes from the dargah, depending on traffic. Reserve ahead, especially if you want a particular seating time, and confirm which restaurant you’re booked at—the hotel has several dining options, and prices vary. For a contemporary Indian meal, budget more than a casual dinner: around ₹1,000–₹2,000 per person may cover a modest order, but drinks and a fuller meal can push the bill higher.

Day 15 · Wed, Feb 17
Agra

Agra day trip and onward journey

Getting there from Delhi
Fast train: Gatimaan Express from Hazrat Nizamuddin to Agra Cantt, about 1 hour 40 minutes and roughly ₹1,000–₹1,800 in chair car. Book via IRCTC. Take a morning train; arrange a cab or local transfer from Agra Cantt to the sights. Confirm the current timetable and Taj Mahal opening day before booking.
  1. Train or car from Delhi to Agra — Leave very early; allow roughly 2–3 hours each way by car or around 2 hours by fast train, and arrange transport between Agra sights and the station.
  2. Taj Mahal — Tajganj; spend the morning at the monument, allowing 2–3 hours and checking the current weekly closure before travel.
  3. Agra Fort — Rakabganj; tour the Mughal fort, about 1.5–2 hours.
  4. Pinch of Spice — Fatehabad Road; take a relaxed lunch break, roughly ₹500–1,000 per person.
  5. Train from Agra to Varanasi — Board an overnight service if available; confirm the actual route and departure station well ahead, as many services require returning to Delhi.

Early morning — Taj Mahal

Take the prebooked morning train from Hazrat Nizamuddin to Agra Cantt and have a cab waiting; allow roughly 20–30 minutes to reach the Taj Mahal in Tajganj, with traffic and security queues adding time. Arrive as close to opening as you can—the monument opens around sunrise and is closed on Fridays. Allow 2–3 hours, and buy tickets through the official ASI portal if possible: Indian visitors typically pay about ₹50, with an additional charge to enter the main mausoleum. Bring photo ID and travel light; security does not allow many everyday items inside.

Late morning and lunch — Agra Fort, then Pinch of Spice

From the Taj, take a cab to Agra Fort in Rakabganj (about 15–25 minutes, depending on traffic). Give the red-sandstone complex 1½–2 hours; it’s a substantial walk, so wear comfortable shoes and carry water. Entry is generally around ₹50 for Indian visitors, with fees subject to change. Then head to Pinch of Spice on Fatehabad Road for a leisurely lunch—budget roughly ₹500–₹1,000 per person and allow about an hour.

Afternoon and evening — onward train

Keep the afternoon flexible for the transfer: confirm in advance whether your Varanasi train leaves from Agra Cantt or Agra Fort, and arrange a cab to the correct station with plenty of buffer. The planned fast train from Delhi is a day service, so it does not by itself solve the onward journey to Varanasi; direct overnight options from Agra can vary by operating day and station. Check the exact service on IRCTC before committing to this sightseeing schedule. If the only workable train requires returning to Delhi, today’s full Agra visit and onward connection may not fit comfortably—rework the bookings rather than risk missing the train.

Day 16 · Thu, Feb 18
Varanasi

Stay in Varanasi

Getting there from Agra
Train: check for a direct overnight Agra Fort–Varanasi service, such as the Chambal Express when it operates on your date. Allow roughly 11–13 hours; sleeper fares are about ₹400–₹700 and AC 3-tier about ₹1,000–₹1,600. Book through IRCTC and verify the running day, station, and arrival time. This suits an Agra sightseeing day, but book a Varanasi arrival that does not conflict with your early plans.
  1. Dashashwamedh Ghat — Old City; take an early morning boat ride to see the riverfront waking up, about 1–1.5 hours.
  2. Kashi Vishwanath Temple — Old City; visit with time for security and queues, about 1.5–2 hours.
  3. Kachori Gali — Old City; sample a local kachori-sabzi lunch, roughly ₹100–250 per person.
  4. Manikarnika Ghat — Old City; observe respectfully from a distance and follow local guidance, about 30–45 minutes.
  5. Assi Ghat — Assi; enjoy the evening riverfront, about an hour.

Early morning — Riverfront

After arriving in Varanasi, leave your bags at your hotel or ask for an early check-in; then head to Dashashwamedh Ghat for a dawn boat ride. Plan on about 1–1½ hours on the water as the ghats and riverfront come to life. Shared boats commonly cost around ₹200–₹500 per person, while private boats cost more; agree on the fare and duration before boarding, and bring a light layer for the cool morning.

Morning and lunch — Old City

From the ghat, walk through the narrow lanes to Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Allow 1½–2 hours for security checks and queues, which can vary considerably; carry only essentials, as phones and bags may be restricted in the temple area, and check the latest entry rules locally. Afterwards, continue on foot to Kachori Gali for kachori-sabzi—expect to spend roughly ₹100–₹250 per person. It’s a busy, lively lane, so take your time and keep belongings close.

Afternoon and evening — Ghats

Walk to Manikarnika Ghat and observe quietly from a respectful distance. Cremations are private rites: don’t take photographs, and politely decline anyone pressuring you for money or offering unsolicited explanations. Rest at your hotel during the warmer part of the day, then take an auto or e-rickshaw to Assi Ghat—usually around 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic—for an easy hour by the river. February evenings can feel chilly, so bring a warm layer.

Day 17 · Fri, Feb 19
Varanasi

Stay in Varanasi

  1. Banaras Hindu University — Lanka; stroll the leafy campus and visit the public areas, about 1–1.5 hours.
  2. New Vishwanath Temple — BHU campus; admire the temple and its spacious grounds, about an hour.
  3. Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum — BHU campus; see its collection of art and antiquities, about 1–1.5 hours; check its opening day before setting out.
  4. Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe — Assi Ghat; have a relaxed lunch with river views, roughly ₹300–600 per person.
  5. Tulsi Ghat — Assi; finish with a quiet riverside walk, about 45 minutes.

Morning — Banaras Hindu University

Start around 9am at the Banaras Hindu University entrance near Lanka and allow 1–1½ hours for an unhurried walk beneath the campus’s broad, leafy avenues. The university is active, so keep to public areas and follow any visitor or security instructions. From there, walk to the New Vishwanath Temple, inside the campus; set aside about an hour to admire its soaring white tower and spacious grounds. Dress modestly, and check locally for current visiting hours and any restrictions on bags or photography.

Late morning — Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

Continue on foot to Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, also on the BHU campus. Its galleries hold paintings, sculpture, textiles and archaeological finds; allow 1–1½ hours. Check the museum’s opening day and hours before setting out, as university schedules can affect access; keep roughly ₹20–₹100 per person in mind for admission and any applicable camera fee.

Lunch and afternoon — Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe and Tulsi Ghat

Take an auto-rickshaw or app cab from campus to Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe at Assi Ghat—usually around 10–20 minutes, depending on traffic—for a relaxed lunch with river views. Budget about ₹300–₹600 per person, and allow extra time if it’s busy. After lunch, stroll over to Tulsi Ghat for a quieter riverside walk of about 45 minutes; the lanes are uneven, so comfortable shoes are useful, and it’s best to keep the afternoon unhurried.

Day 18 · Sat, Feb 20
Gaya

Travel to Gaya

Getting there from Varanasi
Train: take a morning Varanasi–Gaya service; allow about 4–6 hours, with fares typically around ₹200–₹900 depending on class. Check and book via IRCTC. From Gaya Junction, take a pre-booked taxi to Bodh Gaya (about 30–45 minutes, roughly ₹500–₹1,000).
  1. Train from Varanasi to Gaya — Travel to Gaya Junction; allow roughly 4–6 hours depending on the service and arrange onward transport to Bodh Gaya.
  2. Mahabodhi Temple — Bodh Gaya; visit the sacred complex and Bodhi Tree, allowing 2–3 hours.
  3. Great Buddha Statue — Bodh Gaya; see the landmark statue nearby, about 45 minutes.
  4. Tibetan Om Café — Bodh Gaya; have a relaxed meal, roughly ₹300–600 per person.
  5. Thai Monastery — Bodh Gaya; visit its distinctive temple grounds, about 45 minutes.

Morning — Varanasi to Bodh Gaya

Take a morning train from Varanasi to Gaya Junction; the ride usually takes 4–6 hours, so expect to reach Gaya around midday if you catch an early service. Arrange a taxi in advance for the 30–45-minute drive to Bodh Gaya (typically ₹500–₹1,000). If the train runs late, keep the temple visits flexible rather than trying to rush through them.

Afternoon — Mahabodhi Temple and the Great Buddha Statue

Allow 2–3 hours at Mahabodhi Temple, including time to sit quietly near the Bodhi Tree. The complex is generally open from early morning until evening; entry is usually free, though there may be a small charge for a camera. Shoes must be left outside, and modest clothing is appreciated. Afterward, take a short rickshaw or cab ride to the Great Buddha Statue; allow about 45 minutes, and check locally for current access hours.

Late afternoon — Tibetan Om Café and Thai Monastery

Settle in for a relaxed meal at Tibetan Om Café—budget roughly ₹300–₹600 per person, and check its current hours when you arrive, as they can change. Then continue by rickshaw or on foot, depending on where you’re staying, to the Thai Monastery. Give its distinctive temple grounds around 45 minutes; visitor access can vary, so be respectful of worshippers and follow any signs or requests from staff.

Day 19 · Sun, Feb 21
Dibrugarh

Return to Dibrugarh

Getting there from Gaya
Train: search IRCTC for a through service from Gaya toward Dibrugarh or a connection via Guwahati. Expect roughly 30–40 hours or more, with fares varying widely by class—approximately ₹700–₹3,000. Check the arrival date carefully: a Feb 21 departure is unlikely to reach Dibrugarh the same day. If timing matters, compare flights from Gaya via Delhi or Kolkata to Dibrugarh; connections and schedules vary, and total travel is usually 6–10 hours.
  1. Train from Gaya to Dibrugarh — Board your booked long-distance service at Gaya Junction; the journey can take well over a day, so confirm the timetable and onward arrival date.
  2. Gaya Junction — Gaya; arrive early enough for station security and boarding, allowing at least 45–60 minutes.
  3. Station food stalls at Gaya Junction — Gaya; pick up food and water for the long journey, roughly ₹100–300 per person.
  4. Onboard meal and rest — En route to Dibrugarh; keep essentials, medicines, and warm layers handy for the overnight train.

Before boarding

Keep today deliberately simple: this is the start of a long rail journey, and a train from Gaya Junction to Dibrugarh can take 30–40 hours or longer, with arrival likely on a later date. Check your confirmed ticket and live running status on IRCTC before leaving, especially if your booking involves a change at Guwahati. Aim to reach the station 45–60 minutes before departure; keep your ticket and ID handy, and ask station staff to confirm the platform rather than relying only on the display boards.

Food and the journey

Pick up bottled water and a few familiar snacks from the station stalls before boarding—budget around ₹100–₹300 per person, and don’t count on finding every preferred item during a long journey. Once aboard, keep medicines, valuables, a phone charger and warm layers in an easy-to-reach bag; stow larger luggage securely and rest whenever you can. Check the train’s catering arrangements in advance, and carry a little extra food in case a connection or service runs late.

This trip starts Wed, 3 Feb 2027 — want the check-ins?
Confirm the date (or change it) and we'll check in at two weeks out, one week out, and the day before — bookings, packing, and a day-one brief. Reply to any of them if plans change.
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version