Exploring Delhi, Agra: Street Shopping and Street Food
Wednesday, October 25: Arrival in Delhi
Begin your family-friendly adventure in Delhi, the capital city of India. After arriving at the airport, check into your hotel and take some time to relax and settle in. In the morning, head to the bustling Chandni Chowk market, one of the oldest and busiest markets in Delhi. Explore its narrow lanes filled with shops selling a wide range of items, from clothes and accessories to spices and jewelry. Indulge in some delectable street food like chaat, samosas, and jalebis. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at its stunning architecture. Wrap up the day by enjoying a pleasant evening stroll at India Gate, a famous monument and a popular picnic spot.
Red Fort: Estimated Cost - INR 35 per person (Indian citizens), INR 550 per person (foreigners); Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
India Gate: Free entry; Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Delhi is Sita Ram Diwan Chand, known for its delicious chole bhature. Enjoy a plate of this mouthwatering dish for around 150 INR per person.
For a satisfying and affordable lunch, head to Karim's near Jama Masjid. This iconic restaurant serves mouthwatering Mughalai cuisine, such as kebabs and biryanis, with an average cost of around 300 INR per person.
For dinner, try the famous Paranthe Wali Gali in Chandni Chowk. This street is lined with shops offering stuffed parathas, a popular Indian bread. You can enjoy a variety of parathas here for about 200 INR per person.
Thursday, October 26: Agra - Taj Mahal and Shopping
Embark on a day trip to Agra, home to the magnificent Taj Mahal. Start your morning early and make your way to Agra by train or car. Upon reaching Agra, head straight to the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and capture unforgettable family photos. After exploring the Taj Mahal, visit the nearby Agra Fort, an impressive Mughal architectural masterpiece. In the afternoon, indulge in some retail therapy at Sadar Bazaar, known for its handicrafts, leather goods, and souvenirs. Savor the flavors of Agra by trying local delicacies like petha (a sweet made from pumpkin) and bedai (a stuffed puri) from renowned street food stalls. Head back to Delhi in the evening.
Taj Mahal: Estimated Cost - INR 1300 per person (foreign adults), INR 250 per person (Indian adults); Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Agra Fort: Estimated Cost - INR 600 per person (foreign adults), INR 50 per person (Indian adults); Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Bhagat Ji Breakfast Corner: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Bhagat Ji Breakfast Corner, known for their mouthwatering parathas and chai. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 100 per person.
Pind Balluchi: For a flavorful lunch, head to Pind Balluchi, a popular restaurant serving authentic North Indian cuisine. Indulge in their delectable tandoori dishes and biryanis. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 400-500 per person.
Karim's: End your day with a sumptuous dinner at Karim's, a renowned restaurant known for its Mughlai delicacies. Feast on their famous kebabs, biryanis, and curries. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 600-700 per person.
Friday, October 27: Street Shopping and Food Exploration in Delhi
On your last day in Delhi, indulge in some street shopping and culinary delights. Start your morning by visiting Janpath Market, a vibrant shopping destination known for its trendy clothes, accessories, and handicrafts. Bargain for unique souvenirs and immerse yourself in the local shopping experience. In the afternoon, head to Connaught Place, a bustling commercial center, for more shopping and a wide range of eateries offering diverse cuisines. Don't miss trying the famous street food of Delhi, such as golgappas (pani puri), chole bhature, and kebabs. Explore the nearby Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, a serene Sikh temple, and soak in the spiritual atmosphere. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll at Lodhi Gardens, a beautiful park dotted with historical monuments.
Bangla Sahib Gurudwara: Free entry; Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Lodhi Gardens: Free entry; Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Saravana Bhavan, a popular South Indian restaurant known for its delicious dosas and idlis. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, try Karim's in Jama Masjid, a legendary eatery known for its Mughlai cuisine, especially their tender and flavorful kebabs. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
For dinner, visit Chor Bizarre, a unique restaurant at the Hotel Broadway. It offers a variety of Indian cuisines, with a special focus on Kashmiri dishes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Delhi, don't miss visiting the National Rail Museum, especially if you're traveling with kids. It offers a fascinating insight into the rich history of Indian railways through interactive exhibits and vintage trains. For a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle, visit the peaceful Hauz Khas Village, a trendy neighborhood known for its art galleries, boutiques, and cafes. The Deer Park within Hauz Khas Village is a perfect place for kids to enjoy nature and spot deer. Another hidden gem is the Dilli Haat, a traditional open-air market showcasing handicrafts, textiles, and regional cuisines from all over India. It's a great place to shop for unique souvenirs and sample diverse culinary delights.
For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices and availability on Kayak.