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Exploring India on a Shoestring Budget: 7-Day Itinerary

Saturday, July 29: Delhi

Start your journey in the capital city of Delhi. Begin your morning with a visit to the iconic Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk in the afternoon, known for its vibrant bazaars and delectable street food. In the evening, witness the captivating sound and light show at the Red Fort.

  • Red Fort: INR 500 (approx.), 2-3 hours
  • Chandni Chowk: Affordable, 2-3 hours
  • Sound and Light Show at Red Fort: INR 80 (approx.), 1 hour
Sunday, July 30: Agra

Embark on a day trip to the majestic city of Agra. Start your morning by witnessing the enchanting beauty of the Taj Mahal at sunrise. Afterward, explore the grandeur of Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the evening, visit the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, often referred to as the "Baby Taj".

  • Taj Mahal: INR 1,100 (approx.), 2-3 hours
  • Agra Fort: INR 550 (approx.), 2-3 hours
  • Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah: INR 210 (approx.), 1-2 hours
Monday, July 31: Jaipur

Travel to Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan. Begin your morning with a visit to the magnificent Amber Fort, where you can explore the opulent palaces and enjoy panoramic views. In the afternoon, explore the City Palace and its museum, showcasing the rich history of Jaipur. End your day by witnessing the sunset at the beautiful Jal Mahal.

  • Amber Fort: INR 500 (approx.), 2-3 hours
  • City Palace: INR 500 (approx.), 2-3 hours
  • Jal Mahal: INR 50 (approx.), 1-2 hours
Tuesday, August 1: Jaisalmer

Head to the golden city of Jaisalmer, located in the heart of the Thar Desert. In the morning, explore the intricate carvings and stunning architecture of Jaisalmer Fort. Afterward, visit the Patwon Ki Haveli, a cluster of five grand mansions. In the evening, enjoy a camel ride and witness a mesmerizing sunset over the desert.

  • Jaisalmer Fort: INR 50 (approx.), 2-3 hours
  • Patwon Ki Haveli: INR 100 (approx.), 1-2 hours
  • Camel Ride: INR 500 (approx.), 2-3 hours
Wednesday, August 2: Udaipur

Travel to the romantic city of Udaipur, known as the Venice of the East. Start your day with a visit to the majestic City Palace, offering breathtaking views of Lake Pichola. In the afternoon, explore the serene Saheliyon-ki-Bari gardens and the beautiful Jag Mandir Palace. End your day with a boat ride on Lake Pichola, witnessing the illuminated palaces.

  • City Palace: INR 330 (approx.), 2-3 hours
  • Saheliyon-ki-Bari: INR 60 (approx.), 1-2 hours
  • Jag Mandir Palace: INR 340 (approx.), 1-2 hours
  • Boat Ride on Lake Pichola: INR 400 (approx.), 1-2 hours
Thursday, August 3: Varanasi

Experience the spiritual city of Varanasi, located on the banks of the holy river Ganges. Begin your day with a sunrise boat ride along the river, witnessing the ancient rituals and ceremonies. Explore the narrow lanes of the old city in the afternoon, visiting the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the sacred Dashashwamedh Ghat. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony.

  • Sunrise Boat Ride: INR 200 (approx.), 2-3 hours
  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Dashashwamedh Ghat: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Ganga Aarti Ceremony: Free, 1 hour
Friday, August 4: Kolkata

Conclude your journey in Kolkata, the cultural capital of India. Begin your morning with a visit to the iconic Victoria Memorial, a majestic marble structure. Explore the vibrant and bustling New Market in the afternoon, known for its diverse range of products. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Howrah Bridge and witness the bustling activities along the riverfront.

  • Victoria Memorial: INR 30 (approx.), 2-3 hours
  • New Market: Affordable, 2-3 hours
  • Howrah Bridge: Free, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Delhi, don't miss the opportunity to explore the narrow lanes of Old Delhi, especially the bustling street food scene in Chandni Chowk. In Jaipur, visit the lesser-known Nahargarh Fort for panoramic views of the city. In Udaipur, head to the tranquil Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace. Finally, in Kolkata, immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a traditional Bengali music and dance performance at Rabindra Sadan.

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