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A 7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Delhi and Rishikesh

Thursday, September 28, 2023: Arrival in Delhi

In the morning, arrive in Delhi and check into your budget-friendly hotel. Spend the afternoon exploring the bustling streets of Old Delhi, visiting iconic sites like Jama Masjid and Chandni Chowk. In the evening, experience the vibrant nightlife of Delhi at Hauz Khas Village.

  • Hotel: Check prices here
  • Jama Masjid: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Chandni Chowk: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Hauz Khas Village: Budget-friendly, 3-4 hours
Friday, September 29, 2023: Exploring Delhi's Cultural Heritage

Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Red Fort, followed by exploring the historical Qutub Minar complex. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the serenity of the Lotus Temple and end your day by witnessing the grandeur of Akshardham Temple's light and sound show.

  • Red Fort: INR 35 (~$0.50), 2-3 hours
  • Qutub Minar: INR 30 (~$0.40), 2-3 hours
  • Lotus Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Akshardham Temple: Free entry, INR 170 (~$2.30) for light and sound show, 3-4 hours
Saturday, September 30, 2023: Spiritual Journey to Rishikesh

Travel to Rishikesh, the Yoga Capital of the World. After arrival, take a dip in the holy River Ganges at Triveni Ghat. Spend the afternoon exploring the ashrams and spiritual centers, and in the evening, attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan.

  • Travel from Delhi to Rishikesh: INR 800 (~$11), 6-7 hours
  • Triveni Ghat: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Ashrams and Spiritual Centers: Free entry, donation-based activities available, 2-3 hours
  • Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan: Free, 1-2 hours
Sunday, October 1, 2023: Yoga, Meditation, and Adventure

Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga and meditation session at an ashram or yoga center. Afterward, explore the picturesque Beatles Ashram and embark on a thrilling river rafting adventure in the Ganges. End the day with a visit to the iconic Laxman Jhula.

  • Yoga and Meditation Session: Donation-based, 2-3 hours
  • Beatles Ashram: INR 150 (~$2), 2-3 hours
  • River Rafting: INR 600 (~$8), 3-4 hours
  • Laxman Jhula: Free, 1-2 hours
Monday, October 2, 2023: A Day in Rishikesh's Nature

Embark on an early morning trek to the mesmerizing Neer Garh Waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery. Afterward, visit the stunning Rajaji National Park for wildlife spotting and peaceful nature walks. End your day by witnessing the evening aarti at Triveni Ghat.

  • Neer Garh Waterfall: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Rajaji National Park: INR 150 (~$2) for entry, 3-4 hours
  • Triveni Ghat Aarti: Free, 1-2 hours
Tuesday, October 3, 2023: Shopping and Cultural Delights

Spend the morning exploring the local markets of Rishikesh, such as the Laxman Jhula Market and the Ram Jhula Market, where you can find traditional handicrafts, clothes, and spiritual souvenirs. In the afternoon, visit the Sivananda Ashram and indulge in a blissful Ayurvedic massage.

  • Shopping at Laxman Jhula Market: Budget-friendly, 2-3 hours
  • Shopping at Ram Jhula Market: Budget-friendly, 2-3 hours
  • Sivananda Ashram: Free entry, donation-based activities available, 2-3 hours
  • Ayurvedic Massage: Starting from INR 500 (~$7), 1-2 hours
Wednesday, October 4, 2023: Departure from Rishikesh

Say goodbye to the tranquil city of Rishikesh and travel back to Delhi for your departure. Spend the remaining time exploring local markets or visiting any attractions missed earlier, before catching your flight back home.

  • Travel from Rishikesh to Delhi: INR 800 (~$11), 6-7 hours
  • Optional: Additional sightseeing or shopping

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While in Delhi, don't miss the opportunity to visit the lesser-known Agrasen ki Baoli, a historical stepwell tucked away amidst the city's chaos. In Rishikesh, head to the Kunjapuri Devi Temple for a breathtaking sunrise view of the Himalayas and a glimpse of local spirituality.

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