Start your trip in Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh. In the morning, explore the majestic Bara Imambara, a grand architectural marvel. This Shia Muslim shrine offers stunning views from its rooftop. For the afternoon, head to Hazratganj, the heart of Lucknow, for some shopping and delicious street food. In the evening, visit the vibrant Chowk market to experience the bustling atmosphere and try local delicacies like kebabs and biryanis.
Bara Imambara: Cost estimate: INR 50, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Hazratganj: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Chowk Market: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Khasta Kachori in Hazratganj is a must-visit for breakfast. They serve crispy and flaky kachoris stuffed with a spicy potato filling. The average cost for a meal is about 70 INR per person.
For a delicious lunch, head to Tunday Kababi in Chowk market. Known for their melt-in-your-mouth kebabs, this iconic eatery offers a variety of flavors. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Indulge in a royal dinner experience at Oudhyana, located inside the Taj Mahal Hotel in Lucknow. With its regal ambience and a menu featuring Awadhi delicacies, this restaurant guarantees a memorable dining experience. The average cost for a meal is about 2000 INR per person.
Friday, August 11: Agra
On day two, make your way to Agra, home to the iconic Taj Mahal. Start your morning by marveling at the magnificent Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. In the afternoon, explore the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and learn about the rich history of the Mughal Empire. End the day with a visit to Mehtab Bagh, a garden complex offering a stunning view of the Taj Mahal at sunset.
Taj Mahal: Cost estimate: INR 1300 (foreigners), Time spent: 2-3 hours
Mehtab Bagh: Cost estimate: INR 200, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Esphahan at the Oberoi Amarvilas. This restaurant offers a delightful spread of traditional Indian and international breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Peshawri at ITC Mughal. Enjoy the flavors of authentic North Indian cuisine and indulge in their renowned kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about 1500 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at Bon Barbecue. This restaurant offers an extensive buffet of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, including barbecued delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Saturday, August 12: Varanasi
On day three, head to Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India. Begin your morning with a boat ride along the holy Ganges River, witnessing the mesmerizing ritual of morning prayers. In the afternoon, explore the narrow lanes of Varanasi's old city, visiting ancient temples and witnessing the vibrant local life. As the evening approaches, attend the magical Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where priests perform a ritual worship of the river with music and fire.
Ganges River Boat Ride: Cost estimate: INR 200-300, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Exploring Varanasi's Old City: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Varanasi is Ganga Cafe, located near the Dashashwamedh Ghat. They offer a variety of vegetarian options like poha and parathas. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a delicious lunch, head to Brown Bread Bakery & Cafe, situated near Assi Ghat. They serve a range of sandwiches, pizzas, and salads. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
In the evening, indulge in authentic Indian cuisine at Keshari Restaurant, located in the heart of the old city. They specialize in North Indian dishes like butter chicken and biryani. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Sunday, August 13: Allahabad
On day four, visit Allahabad, a city known for its religious significance. In the morning, take a dip in the holy Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. Afterward, explore the historic Allahabad Fort, built by Emperor Akbar, which offers panoramic views of the city. In the evening, visit Anand Bhawan, the ancestral home of the Nehru family, which now serves as a museum showcasing the life of India's first prime minister.
Triveni Sangam: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Kanha Sweets, known for its delicious Indian breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 100 per person.
For lunch, head to El Chico, a popular restaurant serving a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner experience at Hotel Prayag, offering a wide range of North Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
Monday, August 14: Mathura and Vrindavan
On day five, explore the sacred towns of Mathura and Vrindavan, associated with Lord Krishna. Begin your day in Mathura by visiting the Krishna Janmabhoomi temple, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Afterward, head to Vrindavan and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Banke Bihari Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna. In the evening, witness the colorful and energetic Raslila dance performance, depicting the divine love of Radha and Krishna.
Krishna Janmabhoomi: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Banke Bihari Temple: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Raslila Dance Performance: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Mathura is Brijwasi Mithai Wala, known for its delicious sweets and snacks. The average cost for a breakfast meal here is about ₹200 per person.
If you're looking for a lunch option, try Govindas Restaurant in Vrindavan. They serve a variety of vegetarian dishes and the average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, head to the renowned Brajwasi Restaurant in Mathura. They offer a diverse menu of Indian cuisine and the average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Tuesday, August 15: Lucknow
On the final day of your trip, return to Lucknow and indulge in its rich history and culinary delights. Spend the morning exploring the stunning Bada Imambara complex, including the labyrinth-like Bhul Bhulaiya. For the afternoon, visit the British Residency, a historical site that played a significant role in the Indian Rebellion of 1857. In the evening, savor the famous Awadhi cuisine at a traditional Lucknowi restaurant.
Bada Imambara: Cost estimate: INR 50, Time spent: 2-3 hours
British Residency: Cost estimate: INR 20 (Indians), INR 300 (foreigners), Time spent: 2-3 hours
Lucknowi Restaurant: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Mughal's Paradise, a cozy restaurant offering a variety of Indian and continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹250 per person.
For lunch, head to Royal Spice. This vibrant restaurant serves authentic Uttar Pradesh cuisine with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
In the evening, treat yourselves to a memorable dinner at Oudhyana. Known for its regal ambience and exquisite Awadhi flavors, this upscale restaurant is perfect for celebrating your bachelor party. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, consider visiting the Bateshwar Temples near Agra. This complex of over a hundred temples along the Yamuna River offers a serene and spiritual atmosphere. Another hidden gem is the stunning Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its diverse flora and fauna. Take a river safari and spot endangered species like the Gangetic dolphin and Indian skimmer. These lesser-known attractions will add a touch of adventure and charm to your bachelor party trip.
For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices on Kayak.