Shoestring Budget 7-Day Uttar Pradesh Itinerary

Thursday, August 24: Agra

Start your trip in the iconic city of Agra. In the morning, visit the magnificent Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Spend the afternoon exploring the historical Agra Fort, marveling at its stunning architecture. As the evening sets in, take a stroll along the Yamuna River and witness the mesmerizing view of the Taj Mahal during sunset.

• Taj Mahal: Cost - ₹50 for Indian citizens, ₹1300 for foreigners, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Agra Fort: Cost - ₹50 for Indian citizens, ₹600 for foreigners, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Friday, August 25: Mathura and Vrindavan

Embark on a spiritual journey by visiting Mathura and Vrindavan, the birthplace and childhood home of Lord Krishna. Start your day by attending the morning aarti at the Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple in Mathura. In the afternoon, explore the enchanting temples of Vrindavan, including the Banke Bihari Temple and ISKCON Temple. In the evening, witness the vibrant celebrations of the Holi Gate in Mathura.

• Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple: No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Banke Bihari Temple: No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• ISKCON Temple: No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Saturday, August 26: Lucknow

Travel to the city of Lucknow, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Start your day by visiting the magnificent Bara Imambara, a grand architectural marvel. In the afternoon, explore the historical Rumi Darwaza and stroll through the bustling streets of Hazratganj, experiencing the local cuisine and shopping. As the evening sets in, indulge in the famous Lucknowi kebabs at Tunday Kababi.

• Bara Imambara: Cost - ₹50 for Indian citizens, ₹500 for foreigners, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Rumi Darwaza: No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Hazratganj: Cost - Varies based on personal expenses, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Tunday Kababi: Cost - ₹300-500 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday, August 27: Varanasi

Immerse yourself in the spiritual aura of Varanasi, one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. Start your day with a boat ride on the sacred Ganges River during sunrise. In the afternoon, explore the narrow alleys of the old city, visiting the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Sarnath, the site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. As the evening approaches, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat.

• Boat Ride on Ganges River: Cost - ₹100-200 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Sarnath: Cost - ₹15 for Indian citizens, ₹200 for foreigners, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, August 28: Allahabad

Visit the historic city of Allahabad, known for its confluence of three holy rivers - Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati. Start your day by taking a dip in the sacred Triveni Sangam during sunrise. In the afternoon, explore the magnificent Allahabad Fort and the majestic Anand Bhavan, the former residence of the Nehru-Gandhi family. As the evening sets in, witness the enchanting Kumbh Mela at the ghats.

• Triveni Sangam: No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Allahabad Fort: Cost - ₹10 for Indian citizens, ₹250 for foreigners, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Anand Bhavan: Cost - ₹15 for Indian citizens, ₹200 for foreigners, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Kumbh Mela: No entry fee, Time spent - Varies depending on the visit

Tuesday, August 29: Ayodhya

Explore the ancient city of Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama. Start your day by visiting the Ram Janmabhoomi temple complex, which holds great religious significance. In the afternoon, explore the Hanuman Garhi temple and the beautiful gardens of Tulsi Udyan. As the evening approaches, witness the grand aarti at the banks of the Sarayu River.

• Ram Janmabhoomi: No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Hanuman Garhi: No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Tulsi Udyan: No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Aarti at Sarayu River: No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, August 30: Kanpur

Conclude your trip in the industrial city of Kanpur. In the morning, visit the beautiful Phool Bagh and the Kanpur Memorial Church. In the afternoon, explore the bustling markets of Naveen Market and enjoy the local street food. As the evening sets in, indulge in some retail therapy at the famous Z-Square Mall.

• Phool Bagh: No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Kanpur Memorial Church: No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Naveen Market: Cost - Varies based on personal expenses, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Z-Square Mall: Cost - Varies based on personal expenses, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Uttar Pradesh on a shoestring budget, don't miss out on the hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the offbeat town of Chunar near Varanasi to witness the magnificent Chunar Fort and enjoy panoramic views of the Ganges River. Explore the lesser-known temples in the town of Vindhyachal, known for its spiritual significance. Lastly, indulge in the local street food of Lucknow, trying delicacies like kebabs, biryanis, and mouth-watering sweets.

For checking hotel and flight prices in Uttar Pradesh, you can visit https://kayak.com/in?a=kan_252520_563153&p=v1&lc=en&url=%2Fstays.