7-Day Budget Itinerary for Uttar Pradesh

Day 1: Exploring Lucknow

In the morning, visit Bara Imambara, a stunning labyrinth-like monument offering panoramic views. Spend the afternoon exploring the Rumi Darwaza, a grand gateway, and the Chota Imambara. In the evening, head to Hazratganj, a bustling market known for its street food and shopping.

• Bara Imambara: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Rumi Darwaza: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Chota Imambara: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Hazratganj: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Day 2: Agra and the Taj Mahal

Start early and make your way to Agra to witness the beauty of the Taj Mahal in the morning. Spend the afternoon exploring the Agra Fort and indulge in local street food. In the evening, visit Mehtab Bagh for a stunning view of the Taj Mahal at sunset.

• Taj Mahal: Estimated cost - INR 50 (Indian nationals), INR 1300 (foreign nationals), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Agra Fort: Estimated cost - INR 40 (Indian nationals), INR 600 (foreign nationals), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Mehtab Bagh: Estimated cost - INR 10 (Indian nationals), INR 300 (foreign nationals), Time spent - 1-2 hours

Day 3: Varanasi Spiritual Experience

Begin your day with a boat ride along the Ganges River, witnessing the morning rituals and ceremonies. Explore the narrow lanes of Varanasi, visiting the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the Dashashwamedh Ghat. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony.

• Ganges Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 200-300, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Dashashwamedh Ghat: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Ganga Aarti Ceremony: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Day 4: Allahabad Historical Tour

Start your day by visiting the popular Triveni Sangam, the confluence of three holy rivers. Explore the Allahabad Fort and Anand Bhavan, the former residence of the Nehru family. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful walk along the Khusro Bagh.

• Triveni Sangam: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Allahabad Fort: Estimated cost - INR 20 (Indian nationals), INR 300 (foreign nationals), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Anand Bhavan: Estimated cost - INR 15 (Indian nationals), INR 250 (foreign nationals), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Khusro Bagh: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Day 5: Explore the Beauty of Mathura and Vrindavan

Visit the birthplace of Lord Krishna, starting with the Krishna Janmasthan Temple in Mathura. Explore the iconic Banke Bihari Temple and ISKCON Temple in Vrindavan. In the evening, witness the vibrant Holi celebrations at the Lathmar Holi festival.

• Krishna Janmasthan Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Banke Bihari Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• ISKCON Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Lathmar Holi Festival: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Day 6: Discover the Cultural Heritage of Varanasi

Visit the Sarnath Archaeological Site, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Explore the Sarnath Museum and the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar. In the evening, enjoy a boat ride along the Ganges River, witnessing the magical Ganga Aarti ceremony.

• Sarnath Archaeological Site: Estimated cost - INR 30 (Indian nationals), INR 300 (foreign nationals), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Sarnath Museum: Estimated cost - INR 5 (Indian nationals), INR 100 (foreign nationals), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Mulagandha Kuti Vihar: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Ganges Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 200-300, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Day 7: Explore the Beauty of Ayodhya

Visit the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, the birthplace of Lord Rama. Explore the Hanuman Garhi and the Kanak Bhavan Temple. In the evening, take a serene walk along the banks of the Sarayu River.

• Ram Janmabhoomi Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Hanuman Garhi: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Kanak Bhavan Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Sarayu River: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Visit the Chunar Fort in Mirzapur district, which offers spectacular views of the Ganges River. Explore the colorful bazaars of Kanpur, known for their handicrafts and street food. Don't miss out on trying the famous "thandai" in Varanasi, a refreshing milk-based drink.