Exploring Fatehpur Sikri, Agra, and Lucknow: 3-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary
Friday, September 29: Road Trip from New Delhi to Agra
Embark on an exciting road trip from New Delhi to Agra, starting early in the morning. Enjoy the scenic drive and make a quick stop at Sikandra, the tomb of Akbar the Great, located on the outskirts of Agra. Arrive in Agra and check into a budget-friendly hotel. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Taj Mahal, a magnificent marble mausoleum that offers breathtaking views. Spend the evening exploring the bustling streets of Agra and savor delicious street food.
Taj Mahal: Entrance fee - INR 50 (Indian), INR 1300 (foreigner), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Exploring Agra streets: Street food - INR 200, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Sheroes Hangout. This unique cafe is run by acid attack survivors and offers a welcoming atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
For lunch, head to Pinch of Spice, a popular restaurant in Agra known for its authentic Indian cuisine. Enjoy dishes like butter chicken and biryani. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
In the evening, dine at Peshawri, a renowned restaurant located in the ITC Mughal Hotel. Indulge in delectable kebabs and traditional Awadhi cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 1500 per person.
Saturday, September 30: Fatehpur Sikri Exploration
Start your day by visiting Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located near Agra. Explore the stunning architecture and historical monuments, including the Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid, and Panch Mahal. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the serene surroundings. Return to Agra in the afternoon and visit Agra Fort, a majestic red sandstone fort that offers panoramic views of the city. In the evening, experience the sound and light show at Agra Fort.
Sound and Light Show at Agra Fort: Ticket - INR 200 (Indian), INR 600 (foreigner), Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Grand Buffet. This restaurant offers a wide variety of options including continental, Indian, and Chinese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, head to Cafe Utsav, a cozy restaurant serving authentic Indian cuisine. Try their mouthwatering biryanis and curries. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Peshawri, known for its succulent kebabs and traditional Indian bread. The rich flavors and cozy ambiance make it a perfect dining spot. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Sunday, October 1: Lucknow Heritage Tour
Start your day early and embark on a scenic road trip from Agra to Lucknow. Explore the architectural wonders of Lucknow, known for its rich heritage and culture. Visit Bara Imambara, a grand Shia Muslim shrine, and marvel at its intricate architecture. Enjoy a traditional Awadhi lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Rumi Darwaza, a magnificent gateway, and stroll through the bustling markets of Hazratganj. Indulge in mouthwatering kebabs for dinner at Tunday Kababi, a famous local eatery.
Bara Imambara: Entrance fee - INR 50 (Indian), INR 500 (foreigner), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Awadhi Lunch: Cost - INR 300, Time spent - 1 hour
Rumi Darwaza: Free entry, Time spent - 1 hour
Exploring Hazratganj: Shopping and street food - INR 500, Time spent - 2 hours
Dinner at Tunday Kababi: Cost - INR 400, Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Royal Cafe, known for its delectable Lucknowi street food. Try their famous poha and samosas. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Moti Mahal, a popular restaurant serving authentic Awadhi cuisine. Don't miss their biryanis and kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at Dastarkhwan, an iconic restaurant offering traditional Lucknowi delicacies. Savor their aromatic biryanis and succulent kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For those on a shoestring budget, exploring the local markets in Agra and Lucknow can be both budget-friendly and culturally enriching. Visit Kinari Bazaar in Agra and explore its narrow lanes filled with shops selling traditional handicrafts and textiles at reasonable prices. In Lucknow, don't miss the Chowk area, known for its street food and exquisite Chikankari embroidery. Take a leisurely walk along Marine Drive in Lucknow, offering stunning views of the Gomti River. You can also experience the vibrant street life and indulge in delicious street snacks at the bustling Aminabad market.