Family Friendly Foodie Shoestring Budget Itinerary in India

Day 1: Exploring Delhi

Delhi, India

8:00AM

Visit Red Fort

Start your day by exploring the iconic Red Fort, an architectural marvel showcasing India's history. The entrance fee is minimal.
$5, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Paranthe Wali Gali

Indulge in delicious stuffed parathas at Paranthe Wali Gali, a famous food street in Chandni Chowk known for its variety of flavors.
$7, 1 hour

3:00PM

Humayun's Tomb

Visit Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning Mughal architecture and peaceful gardens.
$3, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Karim's

End the day with a mouthwatering Mughlai dinner at Karim's, known for its kebabs and biryanis at budget-friendly prices.
$8, 1.5 hours

Day 2: More of Delhi

Delhi, India

9:00AM

Qutub Minar

Explore the impressive Qutub Minar complex, a UNESCO site featuring a 73-meter tall minaret and ancient ruins.
$4, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Khan Chacha

Enjoy delicious rolls and kebabs at Khan Chacha, a popular eatery near Qutub Minar.
$6, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shopping at Dilli Haat

Shop for handicrafts and traditional items at Dilli Haat, a vibrant market offering a mix of cultures and cuisines.
$10, 2 hours

7:00PM

Street Food at Chandni Chowk

Savor a variety of street food delights at Chandni Chowk for dinner, experiencing the bustling atmosphere of Old Delhi.
$5, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Jaipur Exploration

Jaipur, India

9:00AM

Amber Fort

Begin your day with a visit to the majestic Amber Fort, known for its intricate architecture and stunning views of Maota Lake.
$6, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Laxmi Mishthan Bhandar

Taste authentic Rajasthani thali at Laxmi Mishthan Bhandar, a popular spot for traditional cuisine.
$8, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

City Palace

Explore the City Palace complex, a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture with museums and courtyards to discover.
$5, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Spice Court

Enjoy a flavorful dinner at Spice Court, offering a mix of Indian and international dishes at reasonable prices.
$9, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Jaipur Continued

Jaipur, India

10:00AM

Hawa Mahal

Admire the intricate facade of Hawa Mahal, also known as the 'Palace of Winds,' a unique pink sandstone structure.
$3, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Rawat Mishtan Bhandar

Try local sweets and snacks at Rawat Mishtan Bhandar, a famous eatery known for its delectable offerings.
$5, 1 hour

3:00PM

Jantar Mantar

Visit the Jantar Mantar observatory, a collection of architectural astronomical instruments from the 18th century.
$4, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Tapri Central

Relish a casual dinner at Tapri Central, a rooftop cafe offering scenic views and affordable meals.
$10, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Agra Day Trip

Agra, India

9:00AM

Taj Mahal

Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Taj Mahal, a symbol of love and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
$15, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pinch of Spice

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pinch of Spice, a popular restaurant known for its North Indian cuisine.
$10, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Agra Fort

Explore the historical Agra Fort, a red sandstone fortress with intricate architecture and panoramic views of the Yamuna River.
$6, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Joney's Place

Savor local street food and Mughlai dishes at Joney's Place, a budget-friendly eatery loved by locals.
$8, 1.5 hours

Day 6: Varanasi Exploration

Varanasi, India

6:00AM

Sunrise Boat Ride on Ganges

Start your day with a serene boat ride at sunrise on the Ganges River, witnessing the ghats come alive with rituals and prayers.
$5, 2 hours

9:00AM

Breakfast at Shree Cafe

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Shree Cafe, known for its traditional Indian dishes and refreshing beverages.
$4, 1 hour

11:00AM

Sarnath Excursion

Explore the ancient site of Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon, and visit the Dhamek Stupa and Mulagandha Kuti Vihar.
$3, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Baati Chokha

Taste authentic Bihari cuisine at Baati Chokha, a local favorite known for its flavorful dishes.
$7, 1 hour

4:00PM

Evening Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Experience the mesmerizing evening Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a spiritual and cultural highlight of Varanasi.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Open Hand Cafe

Enjoy a peaceful dinner at Open Hand Cafe, offering a vegetarian menu with a focus on sustainable and organic ingredients.
$9, 1.5 hours

Day 7: Kolkata Discovery

Kolkata, India

9:00AM

Victoria Memorial

Start your day by visiting the grand Victoria Memorial, an architectural masterpiece and museum dedicated to British India history.
$5, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at 6 Ballygunge Place

Indulge in a traditional Bengali thali at 6 Ballygunge Place, offering a variety of regional delicacies.
$8, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Indian Museum

Explore the Indian Museum, the oldest and largest museum in India, showcasing a diverse collection of artifacts and exhibits.
$4, 2 hours

6:00PM

Street Food at Park Street

Treat yourself to a variety of street food options at Park Street, a culinary hub in Kolkata known for its vibrant food scene.
$6, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Mocambo

Conclude your day with a satisfying dinner at Mocambo, a popular restaurant serving continental and Indian dishes in a classic setting.
$12, 1.5 hours