A Family Friendly 6-Day Itinerary to Delhi, Agra, Vrindavan, Mathura, and Kedarnath

Thursday, September 28: Arrival in Delhi

Start your trip by arriving in Delhi, the capital city of India. In the morning, visit the iconic Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its impressive architecture and historical significance. In the afternoon, explore the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk, one of the oldest and busiest markets in Delhi. As the evening sets in, take a relaxing stroll in the beautiful gardens of Lodhi Garden, a serene oasis in the heart of the city.

• Red Fort: Estimated cost - INR 500, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Chandni Chowk: Estimated cost - Variable (shopping and food), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Lodhi Garden: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Friday, September 29: Agra

Embark on a day trip to Agra, home to the magnificent Taj Mahal. In the morning, witness the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a symbol of love for his wife. Afterward, visit the Agra Fort, an impressive red sandstone fortress dating back to the Mughal era. In the evening, enjoy a sunset view of the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh, a beautiful garden located across the Yamuna River.

• Taj Mahal: Estimated cost - INR 1300 (foreigners), INR 250 (Indians), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Agra Fort: Estimated cost - INR 600 (foreigners), INR 50 (Indians), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Mehtab Bagh: Estimated cost - INR 200 (foreigners), INR 15 (Indians), Time spent - 1-2 hours

Saturday, September 30: Vrindavan and Mathura

Explore the religious towns of Vrindavan and Mathura, known for their association with Lord Krishna. In the morning, visit the Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, a popular pilgrimage site for devotees. Afterward, head to Mathura to explore the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple Complex, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna. In the evening, witness the vibrant Krishna Leela performances at various temples in the area.

• Banke Bihari Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple Complex: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Krishna Leela Performances: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday, October 1: Delhi Sightseeing

Spend another day in Delhi to explore more of its attractions. Start your day by visiting the Qutub Minar, a towering masterpiece of Mughal architecture. In the afternoon, explore the peaceful and beautifully landscaped gardens of Humayun's Tomb, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. As the evening approaches, visit India Gate, a prominent landmark and war memorial, and enjoy a leisurely walk in the nearby Lodi Gardens.

• Qutub Minar: Estimated cost - INR 600 (foreigners), INR 40 (Indians), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Humayun's Tomb: Estimated cost - INR 600 (foreigners), INR 40 (Indians), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• India Gate: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Lodi Gardens: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, October 2: Kedarnath

Embark on a spiritual journey to the holy town of Kedarnath. Take a morning flight from Delhi to Dehradun and then proceed to Gaurikund by road. From Gaurikund, start a trek to Kedarnath, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Spend the day exploring the temple complex and taking in the breathtaking mountain views. In the evening, attend the evening aarti (prayer ceremony) at the temple.

• Flight from Delhi to Dehradun: Estimated cost - Variable (check flight prices), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Road journey from Dehradun to Gaurikund: Estimated cost - Variable (check local transportation), Time spent - 6-7 hours
• Trek to Kedarnath: Estimated cost - INR 3000 (mules available), Time spent - Variable (depends on trekking speed)

Tuesday, October 3: Return to Delhi

After seeking blessings in Kedarnath, start your journey back to Delhi. Descend from Kedarnath to Gaurikund and then drive back to Dehradun. From Dehradun, catch a flight back to Delhi. Spend the evening exploring the local markets and indulging in some shopping or trying out delicious street food.

• Trek from Kedarnath to Gaurikund: Estimated time - Variable (depends on trekking speed)
• Road journey from Gaurikund to Dehradun: Estimated cost - Variable (check local transportation), Time spent - 6-7 hours
• Flight from Dehradun to Delhi: Estimated cost - Variable (check flight prices), Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Delhi, don't miss out on visiting the National Rail Museum, a fascinating place for railway enthusiasts and families. In Agra, take a detour to visit Fatehpur Sikri, a deserted Mughal city with beautiful architecture. In Mathura, explore the narrow lanes of the old town, which are filled with vibrant colors and offer a glimpse of the local way of life. Lastly, in Kedarnath, take some time to visit the nearby Chopta, known as the "Mini Switzerland of India," and enjoy the serene beauty of the Himalayan landscapes.