Comprehensive 30-Day North to South India Road Trip Itinerary Covering Iconic Destinations within ₹40,000 Budget per Person

Day 1: Arrival & Kolkata

Kolkata, West Bengal on June 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Flurys

Start your day with a famed Kolkata breakfast at Flurys, known for its pastries and English breakfast.
INR 300, 1h30m

10:00am

Victoria Memorial

Explore this iconic British-era marble monument surrounded by gardens.
INR 30, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Oh! Calcutta

Enjoy authentic Bengali lunch featuring fish curry and rice.
INR 600, 1h

3:00pm

Indian Museum

Visit India's oldest museum housing art, archaeology and natural history exhibits.
INR 20, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Peter Cat

Dine at this iconic restaurant famous for Chelo Kebab.
INR 700, 1h30m
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Day 2: Shillong & Wari Chora

Shillong, Meghalaya on June 30, 2025

6:00am

Travel to Shillong via train/bus

Early morning travel from Kolkata to Shillong; approx 12-14 hours by train and bus combination.
INR 800, 13h
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Day 3: Shillong Sights & Wari Chora

Shillong, Meghalaya on July 1, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Dylan's Cafe

Enjoy local Khasi breakfast with toast and eggs.
INR 200, 1h

9:00am

Elephant Falls & Wari Chora trek

Explore the lovely Elephant Falls, followed by a half-day trek to Wari Chora waterfall, a hidden gem.
Free, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at City Hut Family Dhaba

Enjoy authentic local dishes like Jadoh (rice with meat).
INR 350, 1h

4:00pm

Shillong Peak

Visit Shillong Peak for panoramic views of the city.
INR 20, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Trattoria

Try continental and local delicacies in this popular restaurant.
INR 600, 1h30m
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Day 4: Dawki & Border Exploration

Dawki, Meghalaya on July 2, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Light local breakfast for energy ahead of travel.
INR 150, 1h

8:30am

Travel to Dawki

Short drive to Dawki, famous for its crystal-clear Umngot River.
INR 300, 2h

11:00am

Boat Ride on Umngot River

Enjoy a serene boat ride in crystal-clear water, offering picturesque views of the Indo-Bangladesh border.
INR 400 per boat (shared among 6), 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at local eatery

Savour traditional Khasi food near Dawki market.
INR 300, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Mawlynnong Village

Explore the cleanest village in Asia, known for living root bridges and eco-tourism.
INR 100, 3h

7:30pm

Dinner in Shillong

Return to Shillong and dine at Cafe Shillong for local snacks and coffee.
INR 500, 1h
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Day 5: Travel to Tawang

Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh on July 3, 2025

5:00am

Early Travel to Tawang

Start early, journey approx 10-12 hours by road through mountain terrains; prepare for scenic journey.
INR 1500, 12h
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Day 6: Explore Tawang

Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh on July 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty local breakfast to start the day.
INR 200, 1h

9:30am

Tawang Monastery

Visit one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in India, known for its architecture and spiritual significance.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Tawang Restaurant

Try Tibetan-influenced dishes like Thukpa and momos.
INR 400, 1h

2:00pm

Sela Pass and Lake Visit

Visit the beautiful Sela Pass and nearby lake, offering breathtaking mountain scenery.
Free, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at hotel

Local dinner relaxing in hotel.
INR 350, 1h
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Day 7: Travel to Sikkim

Gangtok, Sikkim on July 5, 2025

6:00am

Travel from Tawang to Gangtok

Long road journey typically requiring 10-12 hours; passes through scenic mountain routes.
INR 1500, 12h
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Day 8: Gangtok Sightseeing

Gangtok, Sikkim on July 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Baker's Cafe

Popular among tourists for continental and local breakfast fare.
INR 250, 1h

9:30am

Visit Rumtek Monastery

Spiritual center of Sikkimese Buddhism with beautiful architecture and surroundings.
INR 30, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Roll House

Affordable and tasty rolls and local cuisine for lunch.
INR 200, 1h

1:30pm

MG Road Walk

Explore the vibrant main street with shops, cafes and local culture.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Enchey Monastery

A serene place with panoramic views of Gangtok.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Taste of Tibet

Enjoy authentic Tibetan cuisine like momos and thukpa.
INR 400, 1h30m
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Day 9: Travel to Darjeeling

Darjeeling, West Bengal on July 7, 2025

8:00am

Drive from Gangtok to Darjeeling

Approx 3-4 hour journey via scenic mountain roads.
INR 600, 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at Glenary's

Historic bakery and restaurant famous for continental and local dishes.
INR 500, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Tiger Hill

Best spot for sunrise views of Kanchenjunga and Mt Everest peaks (weather permitting).
INR 20, 2h

5:00pm

Tea Garden Tour

Visit one of Darjeeling’s tea estates to learn tea processing and sample fresh tea.
INR 100, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Kunga Restaurant

Enjoy Tibetan and Nepali delicacies.
INR 400, 1h
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Day 10: Travel to Varanasi

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on July 8, 2025

6:00am

Travel from Darjeeling to Varanasi

This is a long journey best done via train or flight from nearby Bagdogra airport.
INR 1500, 12h
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Day 11: Varanasi Exploration

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on July 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Blue Lassi Shop

Try famous banana lassi and light snacks by the Ganges.
INR 100, 1h

9:00am

Boat Ride on Ganges River

Early morning boat ride to see the ghats and rituals along the riverbanks.
INR 600, 1h

11:00am

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

One of the holiest Shiva temples in India.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Famous for local snacks and chaat.
INR 200, 1h

3:00pm

Sarnath Visit

Short drive to the Buddhist historical site where Buddha gave his first sermon.
INR 50, 2h

7:00pm

Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Evening Aarti ceremony with lamps and chanting – a spiritual spectacle.
Free, 1h

8:30pm

Dinner at Brown Bread Bakery

Light and healthy dinner options including continental dishes.
INR 400, 1h
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Day 12: Travel to Mussoorie

Mussoorie, Uttarakhand on July 10, 2025

6:00am

Travel Varanasi to Mussoorie

Long travel day by train and road, approx 12-14 hours.
INR 1500, 13h
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Day 13: Mussoorie Exploration

Mussoorie, Uttarakhand on July 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Kalsang Friends Corner

Popular spot serving Tibetan and north Indian fare.
INR 300, 1h

9:00am

Kempty Falls

Visit the famous waterfall about 15 minutes drive, great for photos and nature walks.
INR 20, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Tavern

Enjoy European and Indian dishes in a cozy setup.
INR 500, 1h

2:00pm

Camel's Back Road Walk

Scenic walk along the ridge offering great views of the Doon valley.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Shopping and Walk on Mall Road

Explore shops and street food on the popular Mall Road.
Optional purchases, 2h

8:30pm

Dinner at The Rice Bowl

Taste local and Chinese cuisine.
INR 400, 1h
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Day 14: Nainital Visit

Nainital, Uttarakhand on July 12, 2025

7:00am

Travel from Mussoorie to Nainital

Road trip approx 6 hours through scenic hills.
INR 500, 6h

1:30pm

Lunch at Sakley's Restaurant & Pastry Shop

Enjoy local and continental food with beautiful hill views.
INR 400, 1h

3:00pm

Naini Lake Boating

Take a boat ride on the beautiful lake, a signature Nainital activity.
INR 200, 1h

5:00pm

Snow View Point by Cable Car

Enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks via cable car ride.
INR 150, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Sonam's Kitchen

Try hearty north Indian and Tibetan dishes.
INR 350, 1h
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Day 15: Valley of Flowers Trek

Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand on July 13, 2025

6:00am

Travel to Govindghat

Road to Govindghat approx 3-4 hours in the morning.
INR 400, 4h

10:00am

Start Trek to Valley of Flowers

Trek approx 13 km uphill to the valley; a stunning UNESCO World Heritage floral reserve, ideal for nature lovers.
Entry INR 250, 6h

5:00pm

Return to Govindghat

Return trek downhill, overnight stay at Govindghat recommended (basic guest house).
INR 500, 3h
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Day 16: Kedarnath Visit

Kedarnath, Uttarakhand on July 14, 2025

5:00am

Trek to Kedarnath

Start early for the 16 km trek or take a pony ride if preferred; visit the famous Kedarnath temple – important pilgrimage site.
Free; pony ride approx INR 2000, 6h

12:00pm

Visit Kedarnath Temple

Spend time in spiritual reverence, temple open 5am to 9pm.
Free, 2h

3:00pm

Return trek to base

Descend back to base for overnight stay.
Free, 4h

7:30pm

Dinner at Guesthouse

Simple meal in guest accommodation.
INR 300, 1h
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Day 17: Travel to Shimla

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh on July 15, 2025

6:00am

Travel from base of Kedarnath to Shimla

Long travel approx 12-14 hours by road and train.
INR 1500, 13h
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Day 18: Shimla Exploration

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh on July 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Sol

A cosy cafe with continental & Indian breakfast options.
INR 300, 1h

9:30am

The Ridge and Mall Road Walk

Explore central Shimla’s iconic promenade, shopping and colonial buildings.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Wake and Bake

Enjoy baked goodies and healthy meals.
INR 400, 1h

2:30pm

Jakhoo Temple Visit

Visit the hilltop Hanuman temple with spectacular valley views.
INR 20, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Ashiana & Goofa

Traditional Himachali and North Indian food.
INR 500, 1h30m
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Day 19: Manali Visit

Manali, Himachal Pradesh on July 17, 2025

7:00am

Travel from Shimla to Manali

Road journey approx 7-8 hours through mountainous terrain.
INR 600, 8h

3:00pm

Late Lunch at Johnson’s Cafe

Taste continental and local Himachali cuisine in popular spot.
INR 500, 1h

5:00pm

Explore Mall Road

Visit local shops and cafes for souvenirs and snacks.
Free, 2h

8:00pm

Dinner at Cafe 1947

Riverside dining with Italian and Indian dishes.
INR 600, 1h30m
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Day 20: Amritsar Journey

Amritsar, Punjab on July 18, 2025

6:00am

Travel Manali to Amritsar

Long journey approx 11-12 hours, best by bus/train combination.
INR 1000, 12h
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Day 21: Amritsar Highlights

Amritsar, Punjab on July 19, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Kesar da Dhaba

Experience traditional Punjabi breakfast dishes.
INR 200, 1h

9:00am

Golden Temple Visit

Visit the holy Sikh shrine, enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Jallianwala Bagh

Historical site commemorating the 1919 massacre; important for Indian history.
Free, 1h

1:30pm

Lunch at Bharawan Da Dhaba

Famous Punjabi dhaba serving hearty meals.
INR 300, 1h

4:00pm

Wagah Border Ceremony

Witness the flag lowering ceremony at India-Pakistan border around sunset.
Free, 2h

8:00pm

Dinner near Golden Temple

Light dinner and refreshments at nearby eateries.
INR 250, 1h
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Day 22: Rann of Kutch Adventure

Rann of Kutch, Gujarat on July 20, 2025

5:00am

Travel Amritsar to Bhuj

Long travel approx 14-16 hours by train/bus, requires overnight transit.
INR 1000, 15h
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Day 23: Rann of Kutch Sightseeing

Rann of Kutch, Gujarat on July 21, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast locally

Savour local Gujarati breakfast specialties.
INR 150, 1h

10:00am

Visit White Rann

Explore the vast salt marsh; great for panoramic photos and experiencing desert-like terrain.
INR 250 entry, 3h

2:00pm

Lunch at Local Dhabas

Try Gujarati thali for balanced meal.
INR 350, 1h

4:00pm

Visit Kalo Dungar Hill

Highest point in Kutch with views of the Pakistan border and Rann.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Bhuj

Traditional Gujarati cuisine dining.
INR 400, 1h
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Day 24: Jaipur Exploration

Jaipur, Rajasthan on July 22, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Jaipur by train/bus

Long journey approx 8-10 hours.
INR 500, 10h
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Day 25: Jaipur Sights

Jaipur, Rajasthan on July 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Rawat Mishthan Bhandar

Famous for kachoris and sweets.
INR 150, 1h

9:30am

Amber Fort Tour

Explore the magnificent hilltop fort with stunning architecture and views.
INR 100, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Laxmi Misthan Bhandar

Traditional Rajasthani thali in heart of city.
INR 400, 1h

3:00pm

City Palace and Jantar Mantar

Visit royal palace complex and adjacent historic observatory.
INR 200, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at Handi Restaurant

Taste authentic Rajasthani and North Indian cuisine.
INR 500, 1h
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Day 26: Nagpur Return

Nagpur, Maharashtra on July 24, 2025

6:00am

Travel Jaipur to Nagpur

Long train or bus journey approx 10-12 hours.
INR 600, 12h
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Day 27: Pune & Mumbai Drive

Nagpur to Pune and Mumbai on July 25, 2025

7:00am

Travel Nagpur to Pune

Train journey approx 4-5 hours.
INR 300, 5h

12:00pm

Lunch at Vaishali Pune

Enjoy Maharashtrian delicacies.
INR 400, 1h

2:00pm

Travel to Mumbai

Train approx 3 hours.
INR 250, 3h

6:00pm

Walk at Marine Drive

Evening stroll along Mumbai’s iconic promenade.
Free, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Bademiya

Savor famous street food kebabs in Colaba.
INR 500, 1h
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Day 28: Goa Relaxation

Goa on July 26, 2025

7:00am

Travel Mumbai to Goa

Train or bus journey approx 10-12 hours.
INR 600, 12h

8:00pm

Dinner on Beach

Enjoy fresh seafood at a beach shack.
INR 700, 1h
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Day 29: Kerala & Kanyakumari

Kerala to Kanyakumari on July 27, 2025

5:00am

Travel Goa to Kerala (Kochi)

Long journey approx 12 hours by bus/train.
INR 700, 12h

7:00pm

Dinner at local Kerala restaurant

Sample authentic Kerala thali with coconut-based curries.
INR 400, 1h
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Day 30: South India Final Leg

Kanyakumari to Chennai on July 28, 2025

7:00am

Travel Kerala to Kanyakumari then Chennai

Drive approx 4-5 hours to Kanyakumari, visit, then continue to Chennai approx 8 hours.
INR 800, 13h

7:00pm

Dinner at Murugan Idli Shop, Chennai

Finishing your trip with South Indian traditional meal.
INR 300, 1h
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