7-Day Budget Itinerary for Delhi, Himachal Pradesh

Wednesday, December 6: Arrival in Delhi

Arrive in Delhi, the capital city of India. Spend the morning exploring the historic Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the afternoon, visit Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India, and soak in the cultural atmosphere of Chandni Chowk, a bustling market. In the evening, take a walk in Lodhi Gardens, known for its lush greenery and historical monuments.

• Red Fort: Entry fee - INR 35 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Jama Masjid: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Lodhi Gardens: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday, December 7: Explore Delhi

Start your day by visiting the iconic India Gate, a war memorial dedicated to Indian soldiers. Spend the afternoon exploring Humayun's Tomb, a magnificent mausoleum and UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the evening, experience the vibrant street food scene at Paranthe Wali Gali in Old Delhi.

• India Gate: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Humayun's Tomb: Entry fee - INR 35 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Paranthe Wali Gali: Budget-friendly street food, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Friday, December 8: Travel to Shimla

Take an early morning bus from Delhi to Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Himalayas on your journey. Upon arrival, explore Mall Road in the afternoon, known for its shops, cafes, and colonial architecture. In the evening, visit Jakhu Temple and hike to the hilltop for panoramic views.

• Bus from Delhi to Shimla: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 6-7 hours
• Mall Road: Free entry, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Jakhu Temple: Free entry, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Saturday, December 9: Explore Shimla

Start your day with a visit to Christ Church, the second oldest church in North India. Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful Viceregal Lodge, also known as Rashtrapati Niwas. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll in the serene Annandale Ground.

• Christ Church: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Viceregal Lodge: Entry fee - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Annandale Ground: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday, December 10: Visit Kufri

Take a day trip to Kufri, a small hill station near Shimla. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayas and indulge in activities like horse riding, yak rides, and skiing (subject to availability). In the evening, return to Shimla and explore the local markets.

• Day trip to Kufri: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 6-7 hours
• Shopping in Shimla: Budget-friendly, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Monday, December 11: Travel to Manali

Take a scenic bus ride from Shimla to Manali, another popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes along the way. Upon arrival, relax and explore the local markets in the evening.

• Bus from Shimla to Manali: Estimated cost - INR 700 per person, Time spent - 8-9 hours
• Exploring local markets: Budget-friendly, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Tuesday, December 12: Explore Manali

Start your day by visiting the famous Hadimba Devi Temple, surrounded by dense forests. Spend the afternoon at Solang Valley, known for its adventure activities like paragliding and zorbing (subject to availability). In the evening, stroll along the Mall Road and enjoy the local cuisine.

• Hadimba Devi Temple: Entry fee - INR 30 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Solang Valley: Activities cost varies, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Exploring Mall Road: Budget-friendly, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the picturesque village of Tirthan Valley in Himachal Pradesh. Known for its untouched beauty, you can go trekking, fishing, or simply unwind amidst nature. Another offbeat destination is Kasol, a hippie paradise offering serene landscapes, Israeli cuisine, and opportunities for river rafting.

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