A Week in New Delhi, Punjab, and Haryana: A Family-Friendly Adventure
Saturday, October 7: Arrive in New Delhi
Welcome to New Delhi! Begin your trip by exploring the iconic Red Fort in the morning. Marvel at its magnificent architecture and learn about its historical significance. Afterward, visit India Gate in the afternoon, a war memorial dedicated to Indian soldiers. In the evening, take a stroll through the bustling Chandni Chowk market, known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious street food.
Red Fort: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
India Gate: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Chandni Chowk: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious and hearty breakfast at Café Lota. Located near India Gate, this charming café offers an array of Indian and regional dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Karim's in Chandni Chowk. Known for its delectable Mughlai cuisine, this iconic restaurant has been serving mouthwatering kebabs and biryanis since 1913. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Indulge in a flavorful dinner at Bukhara, located in the luxury ITC Maurya hotel. Renowned for its authentic North Indian cuisine and tandoori specialties, this award-winning restaurant offers a fine dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about 3000 INR per person.
Sunday, October 8: Explore New Delhi's Cultural Heritage
Begin your day by visiting Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the stunning Mughal architecture and explore its beautiful gardens. In the afternoon, head to Qutub Minar, another UNESCO site, and marvel at the tallest brick minaret in the world. End your day with a visit to Akshardham Temple, a grand Hindu temple known for its intricate carvings and spiritual atmosphere.
Akshardham Temple: Cost estimate: Free entry, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious and hearty breakfast at Saravana Bhavan. This popular South Indian restaurant offers a variety of dosas, idlis, and vadas. The average cost for a meal is about 200 rupees per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Karim's in Jama Masjid. Known for its mouthwatering Mughlai cuisine, this iconic restaurant serves delectable kebabs, biryanis, and curries. The average cost for a meal is about 500 rupees per person.
End your day with a dinner at Bukhara, known for its authentic North Indian cuisine. This upscale restaurant offers an array of delicious tandoori dishes and flavorful curries. The average cost for a meal is about 1500 rupees per person.
Monday, October 9: Journey to Amritsar, Punjab
Take a morning train from New Delhi to Amritsar, the spiritual and cultural capital of Punjab. Upon arrival, visit the majestic Golden Temple. Experience the spiritual ambience and witness the breathtaking beauty of the temple complex. Spend the afternoon exploring the Jallianwala Bagh, a memorial garden commemorating a tragic event in Indian history. In the evening, attend the awe-inspiring daily ceremony at the Wagah Border, where India and Pakistan meet.
Golden Temple: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Wagah Border: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Kesar Da Dhaba, a legendary eatery known for its delicious Punjabi breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 rupees per person.
Enjoy a traditional Punjabi thali for lunch at Bharawan Da Dhaba, a popular restaurant offering a wide variety of vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 rupees per person.
Indulge in a sumptuous dinner at Makhan Fish & Chicken Corner, famous for its mouthwatering fish and chicken dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 rupees per person.
Tuesday, October 10: Discover the Vibrant Culture of Amritsar
Start your day by exploring the historic Ram Bagh Gardens, known for its beautiful landscapes and historical connections. Then, make a visit to the Partition Museum, which tells the tragic story of the partition of India and Pakistan. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture by trying some Punjabi cuisine at a traditional dhaba (roadside eatery). End the day by witnessing the fascinating Punjabi cultural performances at the Sadda Pind village.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Amritsari, a popular local spot known for its mouthwatering parathas and hot chai. Average cost for a meal is about INR 100 per person.
For an authentic Punjabi lunch, head to Kesar Da Dhaba and indulge in their signature dishes like dal makhani and butter chicken. Average cost for a meal is about INR 400 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit Makhan Fish and Chicken Corner, famous for its succulent tandoori fish and juicy chicken tikka. Average cost for a meal is about INR 600 per person.
Wednesday, October 11: Explore the Nature and Wildlife of Haryana
Embark on a morning drive to Sultanpur National Park, a bird lover's paradise. Explore the park's tranquil surroundings and spot numerous bird species. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Surajkund Lake, known for its stunning views and boating opportunities. Take a boat ride and relax in the serene atmosphere. End the day with a visit to the nearby Surajkund Crafts Mela, a vibrant fair showcasing traditional Indian handicrafts.
Sultanpur National Park: Cost estimate: INR 5 (approx. $0.07), Time spent: 3-4 hours
Surajkund Lake: Cost estimate: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Saravana Bhavan: Start your day with a South Indian breakfast at Saravana Bhavan. Their menu is filled with delicious dosas, idlis, and vadas. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
The Pasta Bowl Company: For a satisfying lunch, head to The Pasta Bowl Company. They offer a variety of pasta dishes made with fresh ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Downtown Diner: Indulge in a hearty dinner at Downtown Diner. They serve American-style burgers, fries, and milkshakes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Thursday, October 12: Historic Sites of Haryana
Start your day by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Indus Valley Civilization in Rakhigarhi. Explore the archaeological ruins and learn about this ancient civilization. In the afternoon, head to the impressive Tilyar Lake, offering a serene environment and boating facilities. Enjoy a picnic by the lake. Visit the ancient town of Kurukshetra, known for its religious significance, and witness the grandeur of Brahma Sarovar in the evening.
Indus Valley Civilization (Rakhigarhi): Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Kurukshetra: Cost estimate: Free entry, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, try The Breakfast Club located in Kurukshetra. They offer a variety of delicious Indian and continental breakfast dishes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to Punjab Dhaba in Karnal, known for its authentic Punjabi cuisine. You can enjoy delicious tandoori dishes and traditional Indian thalis. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, visit Dum Pukht in Gurgaon, known for its exquisite Mughlai and North Indian cuisine. Indulge in their flavorful biryanis and succulent kebabs. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Friday, October 13: Return to New Delhi
On your last day, return to New Delhi and explore the diverse markets of the city. Start with a visit to Dilli Haat, a traditional open-air market showcasing handicrafts and cultural performances. In the afternoon, head to Connaught Place, a bustling commercial center with numerous shops and eateries. Enjoy some last-minute shopping before departing.
Dilli Haat: Cost estimate: INR 20 (approx. $0.30), Time spent: 2-3 hours
Connaught Place: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your morning with a delightful breakfast at Sita Ram Diwan Chand, a popular restaurant known for its mouthwatering chole bhature. Average cost for a meal is about INR 150 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Kuremal Mohan Lal Kulfi Wale and indulge in their famous stuffed kulfi. Average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
End your day with a delicious dinner at Moti Mahal Delux, a renowned restaurant offering a variety of North Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For some off the beaten path experiences, consider visiting the Kingdom of Dreams in Gurugram, Haryana. This unique entertainment destination offers live shows, cultural performances, and themed restaurants, providing a glimpse into India's rich heritage. Another local favorite is the Rose Garden in Chandigarh, Punjab. Spread over 30 acres, this beautiful garden boasts thousands of roses in different varieties, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll with your family.
To check hotel and flight prices for your trip to New Delhi, Punjab, and Haryana, click here.