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Shoestring Budget 7-Day Itinerary: Manali, Varanasi, Puri

  1. Saturday July 15: Manali
    10 hours (300 miles) from Chandigarh

    Start your morning with a visit to the Hadimba Devi Temple, a peaceful temple surrounded by towering cedar trees. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the Mall Road, a bustling market offering local handicrafts and delicious street food. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk along the Beas River and soak in the beautiful sunset.

    • Hadimba Devi Temple: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
    • Mall Road: Cost: Varies, Time: 2-3 hours
    • Beas River Walk: Cost: Free, Time: 1 hour
  2. Sunday July 16: Varanasi
    16 hours (600 miles) from Manali

    Begin your day by witnessing the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a spiritual event where priests perform rituals with fire and incense. Afternoon is a perfect time to explore the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. In the evening, take a boat ride along the Ganges River and witness the spiritual rituals.

    • Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: Cost: Free, Time: 1 hour
    • Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
    • Ganges River Boat Ride: Cost: Varies, Time: 1-2 hours
  3. Monday July 17: Puri
    12 hours (350 miles) from Varanasi

    Start your day by visiting the famous Jagannath Temple, a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Puri Beach with its golden sand and serene atmosphere. Don't miss the opportunity to witness the evening Aarti ceremony at the beach, offering a captivating spiritual experience.

    • Jagannath Temple: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
    • Puri Beach: Cost: Free, Time: 2-3 hours
    • Evening Aarti Ceremony: Cost: Free, Time: 1 hour
  4. Tuesday July 18: Manali
    18 hours (650 miles) from Puri

    After the long journey from Puri, take a day to relax and rejuvenate in the scenic beauty of Manali. Explore the picturesque Solang Valley and indulge in adventure activities like paragliding or zorbing. In the evening, visit the Van Vihar National Park for a peaceful walk surrounded by lush greenery.

    • Solang Valley: Cost: Varies, Time: 2-3 hours
    • Van Vihar National Park: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
  5. Wednesday July 19: Varanasi
    16 hours (600 miles) from Manali

    Continue exploring the spiritual charm of Varanasi by visiting the Sarnath Archaeological Museum, showcasing ancient artifacts and Buddhist sculptures. In the afternoon, take a peaceful boat ride to the Manikarnika Ghat and experience the traditional cremation rituals. Witnessing the Ganga Aarti at Assi Ghat is a perfect way to end the day.

    • Sarnath Archaeological Museum: Cost: INR 10, Time: 1-2 hours
    • Manikarnika Ghat Boat Ride: Cost: Varies, Time: 1-2 hours
    • Ganga Aarti at Assi Ghat: Cost: Free, Time: 1 hour
  6. Thursday July 20: Puri
    12 hours (350 miles) from Varanasi

    Explore the spiritual side of Puri by visiting the Gundicha Temple, known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. In the afternoon, take a refreshing dip in the holy water of the Markandeya Tank. End your day with a visit to the Chilka Lake, Asia's largest saltwater lake, where you can witness migratory birds and enjoy boat rides.

    • Gundicha Temple: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
    • Markandeya Tank: Cost: Free, Time: 1 hour
    • Chilka Lake: Cost: Varies, Time: 2-3 hours
  7. Friday July 21: Manali
    18 hours (650 miles) from Puri

    On your final day in Manali, embark on a thrilling trek to the famous Jogini Waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the waterfall and take a refreshing dip in its cool waters. In the evening, explore the vibrant Tibetan Market and indulge in some souvenir shopping.

    • Jogini Waterfall Trek: Cost: Free, Time: 4-5 hours
    • Tibetan Market: Cost: Varies, Time: 1-2 hours

Recommendations

If you have additional time, consider exploring the Rohtang Pass near Manali for breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Another great day trip option from Varanasi is to visit the nearby town of Sarnath, where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma. To make the most of your shoestring budget, try local street food and stay in budget-friendly accommodations. Booking your hotels and flights in advance can help you get the best prices. Enjoy your trip!

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