7-Day Family-Friendly Delhi and Chandigarh Itinerary

Saturday, December 2: Arrival in Delhi

Welcome to Delhi! Start your day with a visit to India Gate, a significant monument symbolizing the country's patriotism. In the afternoon, explore the National Museum, showcasing India's rich history and diverse culture. In the evening, take a rickshaw ride through the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk and savor delicious street food.

• India Gate: Estimated cost – Free, Time spent – 1-2 hours
• National Museum: Estimated cost – INR 10-20, Time spent – 2-3 hours
• Chandni Chowk: Estimated cost for rickshaw ride – INR 100-200, Time spent – 2-3 hours

Sunday, December 3: Explore Old Delhi

Get a glimpse of the city's ancient charm by visiting the UNESCO-listed Red Fort in the morning. Afterward, make your way to Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. In the afternoon, head to Raj Ghat, a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Enjoy a peaceful evening at Lodhi Gardens, known for its beautiful landscape and historical monuments.

• Red Fort: Estimated cost – INR 35-70, Time spent – 2-3 hours
• Jama Masjid: Estimated cost – Free, Time spent – 1-2 hours
• Raj Ghat: Estimated cost – Free, Time spent – 1-2 hours
• Lodhi Gardens: Estimated cost – Free, Time spent – 2-3 hours

Monday, December 4: Discover New Delhi

Explore New Delhi by starting your day at Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its impressive tower. Visit Humayun's Tomb, a stunning example of Mughal architecture, in the afternoon. As the evening sets in, go shopping at the bustling markets of Connaught Place.

• Qutub Minar: Estimated cost – INR 30-60, Time spent – 2-3 hours
• Humayun's Tomb: Estimated cost – INR 35-70, Time spent – 2-3 hours
• Connaught Place: Estimated cost for shopping – Variable, Time spent – 2-3 hours

Tuesday, December 5: Travel to Chandigarh

Take a train or a flight from Delhi to Chandigarh. After arriving, visit the Rock Garden, a unique sculpture garden made from industrial and urban waste materials. Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful Rose Garden, housing thousands of rose varieties. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely boat ride at Sukhna Lake.

• Rock Garden: Estimated cost – INR 30-60, Time spent – 2-3 hours
• Rose Garden: Estimated cost – INR 20-40, Time spent – 2-3 hours
• Sukhna Lake: Estimated cost for boat ride – INR 50-100, Time spent – 1-2 hours

Wednesday, December 6: Explore Chandigarh Architecture

Discover the architectural wonders of Chandigarh by visiting the Capitol Complex in the morning, designed by Le Corbusier. Spend the afternoon at the International Dolls Museum, home to a vast collection of dolls from around the world. In the evening, enjoy a serene walk at the beautiful Zakir Hussain Rose Garden.

• Capitol Complex: Estimated cost – Free, Time spent – 2-3 hours
• International Dolls Museum: Estimated cost – INR 10-20, Time spent – 1-2 hours
• Zakir Hussain Rose Garden: Estimated cost – Free, Time spent – 2-3 hours

Thursday, December 7: Visit the Pinjore Gardens

Take a day trip from Chandigarh to the nearby Pinjore Gardens. Explore the Mughal-style gardens, enjoy a picnic, and admire the beautiful fountains. Return to Chandigarh in the evening and spend some time shopping at Elante Mall, the largest mall in the region.

• Pinjore Gardens: Estimated cost – INR 50-100, Time spent – 3-4 hours
• Elante Mall: Estimated cost for shopping – Variable, Time spent – 2-3 hours

Friday, December 8: Departure

Say goodbye to Chandigarh and head back to Pune. Cherish the memories of your delightful journey through Delhi and Chandigarh.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

One off the beaten path attraction in Delhi is the Agrasen ki Baoli, a stepwell located in the heart of the city. It offers a tranquil atmosphere and a glimpse into Delhi's architectural history. Another local favorite is the Hauz Khas Village, known for its trendy cafes, art galleries, and historical ruins.