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

1. Sunday July 16: Manali
   10 hours 30 minutes (392 miles) from Delhi

   Start your day by exploring the charming Old Manali village, known for its wooden houses and cozy cafes. In the afternoon, visit the Tibetan Monastery and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the Manali Mall Road.

   • Old Manali Village: Free, 2-3 hours
   • Tibetan Monastery: Free, 1-2 hours
2. Monday July 17: Manali to Varanasi
   1 hour 40 minutes (314 miles) flight from Kullu-Manali Airport to Varanasi Airport

   Spend your morning exploring the famous Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara, known for its hot springs and beautiful surroundings. In the afternoon, catch a flight from Kullu-Manali Airport to Varanasi. In the evening, take a boat ride along the holy Ganges River and witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony.

   • Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara: Free, 2-3 hours
   • Ganga Aarti ceremony: Free, 1-2 hours
3. Tuesday July 18: Varanasi
   15 minutes (2 miles) from Varanasi Airport

   Start your day with a serene sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River, witnessing the rituals and bathing ghats. Afterward, explore the ancient temples and narrow lanes of Varanasi. In the evening, visit the famous Dashashwamedh Ghat for a magical Ganga Aarti ceremony.

   • Boat ride on the Ganges River: INR 200 (approx. $3), 3-4 hours
   • Dashashwamedh Ghat: Free, 1-2 hours
4. Wednesday July 19: Varanasi to Puri
   1 hour 30 minutes (502 miles) flight from Varanasi Airport to Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar

   In the morning, visit the famous Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Later, catch a flight from Varanasi Airport to Bhubaneswar. From there, take a taxi to Puri. In the evening, relax on the golden beaches of Puri.

   • Sarnath: Free, 2-3 hours
   • Puri Beach: Free, 1-2 hours
5. Thursday July 20: Puri
   1 hour 40 minutes (38 miles) from Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar

   Start your day by visiting the famous Jagannath Temple and seek blessings. Afterward, explore the vibrant Puri Market and try local street food. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Sand Art Exhibition on the beach.

   • Jagannath Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
   • Puri Market: Varies, 1-2 hours
6. Friday July 21: Puri
   1 hour 30 minutes (38 miles) from Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar

   Embark on a day trip to the famous Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its architectural grandeur. Explore the temple complex and enjoy the beautiful beach nearby. In the evening, return to Puri and relax on the beach.

   • Konark Sun Temple: INR 30 (approx. $0.5) for Indian tourists, 4-5 hours
   • Puri Beach: Free, 1-2 hours
7. Saturday July 22: Puri
   1 hour 30 minutes (38 miles) from Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar

   Spend your last day in Puri by visiting the Chilika Lake, Asia's largest saltwater lake. Take a boat ride to spot migratory birds and explore the picturesque islands. In the evening, enjoy a delicious seafood dinner before departing from Bhubaneswar Airport.

   • Chilika Lake: INR 350 (approx. $5), 4-5 hours
   • Seafood dinner: Varies, 1-2 hours

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider exploring the beautiful temples of Bhubaneswar or taking a day trip to the Sun Temple in Konark. Additionally, you can visit the sacred city of Ayodhya or embark on a wildlife safari in the nearby national parks. To make the most of your budget, try local street food, opt for public transportation, and consider booking accommodations in advance to get better deals.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.