Arrive in New Delhi, the capital city of India, and check into your hotel. In the morning, explore the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk, known for its vibrant markets and delicious street food. Afternoon can be spent visiting the iconic Red Fort and Jama Masjid, followed by a relaxing evening at India Gate, a war memorial and popular hangout spot.
Chandni Chowk: INR 500, 3 hours
Red Fort: INR 250, 2 hours
India Gate: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Paranthe Wali Gali, where you can indulge in a variety of mouthwatering paranthas stuffed with different fillings. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
Satisfy your cravings for lunch at Karim's, a legendary restaurant known for its Mughlai cuisine. Don't miss their signature dishes like the succulent kebabs and aromatic biryanis. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 INR per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Bukhara, an award-winning restaurant offering authentic Indian cuisine. Known for their succulent kebabs and tandoori dishes, the average cost for a meal here is about 3000 INR per person.
Day 2: Saturday, December 2 - New Delhi to Agra
Take an early morning train to Agra, home to the magnificent Taj Mahal. Spend the morning exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site, marveling at its architectural beauty. In the afternoon, visit Agra Fort, a historic fort with stunning views of the Taj Mahal. Enjoy the evening at leisure in Agra.
Taj Mahal: INR 1300 (foreigner fee), 2-3 hours
Agra Fort: INR 600 (foreigner fee), 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, try The Grand Trunk Road, a charming cafe known for its delicious Indian breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For lunch, head to Pinch of Spice, a popular restaurant serving mouth-watering Mughlai cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹700 per person.
For dinner, Taj Terrace Restaurant offers a rooftop dining experience with a stunning view of the Taj Mahal. Indulge in their flavorsome Indian and continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹1000 per person.
Day 3: Sunday, December 3 - Agra to New Delhi
Return to New Delhi and spend the day indulging in adventurous activities. Start your morning with a hot air balloon ride over the city, offering breathtaking views. In the afternoon, visit the National Rail Museum to learn about the history of Indian railways. In the evening, embark on a street food tour in Old Delhi, trying local delicacies.
Hot Air Balloon Ride: INR 10,000, 1-2 hours
National Rail Museum: INR 100 (foreigner fee), 2 hours
Street Food Tour: INR 1000, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
The Blue Door Cafe: Enjoy a cozy breakfast at The Blue Door Cafe, known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Indian Accent: For lunch, head to Indian Accent, a renowned restaurant offering innovative Indian cuisine. Don't miss their signature dish, the Galouti Kebab. Average cost for a meal is about ₹1,500 per person.
Karim's: Experience the flavors of Old Delhi at Karim's, a legendary restaurant known for its Mughlai dishes. Try their succulent kebabs and traditional biryani. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Day 4: Monday, December 4 - New Delhi to Goa
Fly from New Delhi to Goa, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. After checking into your hotel, spend the morning at Calangute Beach, enjoying water sports and sunbathing. In the afternoon, visit the historic Fort Aguada for panoramic views. Wrap up the day with a visit to the lively night markets of Anjuna.
Calangute Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
Fort Aguada: INR 200 (foreigner fee), 1-2 hours
Anjuna Night Market: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast at Café Alchemia, known for its cozy atmosphere and delectable European and Indian fusion dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
For lunch, head to Gunpowder, a charming restaurant offering authentic South Indian cuisine with a contemporary twist. Don't miss their signature appam and Kerala-style fish curry. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Fisherman's Wharf, a renowned seafood restaurant overlooking the river. Enjoy a variety of fresh fish cooked to perfection in Goan-style preparations. Average cost for a meal is about ₹1,200 per person.
Day 5: Tuesday, December 5 - Goa Adventure
Embark on an adventure-filled day in Goa. Start with a thrilling jet ski ride at Baga Beach, followed by a visit to Dudhsagar Falls, one of India's tallest waterfalls. In the evening, take a scenic sunset cruise along the Mandovi River. Indulge in local Goan cuisine for dinner.
Breakfast: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Cafe Alchemia, known for its relaxed atmosphere and diverse menu options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Lunch: Grab a bite at Fisherman's Wharf, a popular seaside restaurant offering a wide selection of fresh seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹700 per person.
Dinner: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Gunpowder, known for its authentic Goan cuisine with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Day 6: Wednesday, December 6 - Goa Beaches
Spend the day exploring different beaches of Goa. Start with a visit to Palolem Beach, known for its scenic beauty and calm waters. In the afternoon, head to Vagator Beach to witness the stunning Chapora Fort. The evening can be spent at the lively Baga Beach, known for its nightlife and beach shacks.
Palolem Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
Vagator Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Baga Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious Indian breakfast at Cafe Coffee Day in Palolem Beach. Enjoy a variety of freshly brewed coffees and traditional Indian breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Seafood Restaurant in Vagator Beach to savor the freshest seafood dishes. Indulge in mouthwatering grilled prawns and fish curry. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit Britto's in Baga Beach. This beachfront restaurant offers a wide range of Goan and international cuisine. Don't miss their famous Goan fish curry and prawn balchão. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Day 7: Thursday, December 7 - Goa Departure
Spend your last day in Goa by indulging in water sports at Calangute Beach. Try activities like parasailing, banana boat rides, and snorkeling. In the evening, explore the vibrant markets of Panaji, where you can shop for souvenirs. Bid farewell to Goa as you catch your flight back home.
Water Sports at Calangute Beach: INR 1500, 3-4 hours
Panaji Markets: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Mambo, located near Calangute Beach. This popular cafe offers a delicious range of breakfast options, from classic eggs and bacon to Indian specialties. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Fisherman's Wharf in Panaji, a charming restaurant overlooking the Mandovi River. Enjoy fresh seafood dishes and traditional Goan cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Gunpowder, a hidden gem in Assagao. This rustic restaurant specializes in South Indian and Goan cuisine, serving flavorful dishes in a tranquil setting. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For adventure enthusiasts, consider visiting the Sula Vineyards in Nashik, a couple of hours from Mumbai, for wine tasting tours and scenic vineyard hikes. Another offbeat destination is Rishikesh, a spiritual town in the northern state of Uttarakhand, offering activities like white water rafting, bungee jumping, and yoga retreats amidst the Himalayas.