8 Days of History, Culture & Soul: My Solo Trip to Agra, Delhi & Amritsar

By Om Deshpande | Solo Traveller | Budget Explorer

Introduction

In 2023, I journeyed solo through Agra, Delhi, and Amritsar — a perfect mix of heritage, spirituality, and metro city rhythm, all within a modest budget.

Day 1: Pune to Agra – A Historic Beginning

• Agra Fort: Massive Mughal masterpiece filled with history.
• Taj Mahal at sunrise: Peaceful, fewer crowds, and bathed in golden light — magical!
• Pro Tip: Took a late-night train to Amritsar — saved time and hotel cost.

Days 2–4: Amritsar — Spirit, Sacrifice & Patriotism

• Golden Temple: Visited at sunrise and at night — divine both times. Langar is a must.
• Jallianwala Bagh: Deeply emotional experience walking among preserved bullet marks.
• Wagah Border: Electrifying energy during the evening flag-lowering ceremony.
• Stay: ₹300/night, budget hotel near the Golden Temple — safe and central.

Days 5–8: Delhi — Monuments, Museums & Metro Rides

• Red Fort & Qutub Minar: Glorious symbols of India's past.
• Akshardham Temple: Especially the laser & water show at night!
• India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Parliament: Spent a day at the President’s House Museum — so worth it.
• Lotus Temple: A quiet place to sit, reflect, and breathe.
• Stay: Hostel in central Delhi (₹350/night) — clean, friendly, close to metro.

Foodie Highlights

• Amritsari kulcha, chole bhature in Delhi, and dhaba thalis.
• Lassi from roadside vendors — thick, sweet, refreshing.
• Temple langars — free, filling, and spiritual.
• Always carried a refillable bottle & snacks to save costs.

Budget Breakdown (Approx.)

• Train Travel: ₹2,200
• Stays (8 nights): ₹2,600
• Food & Local Travel: ₹1,400
• Entry Tickets & Misc: ₹800
• Total: ₹7,000–₹8,000

Travel Tips

• Use Delhi Metro — fast, cheap, and reliable.
• Book train tickets early via IRCTC app.
• Visit Taj Mahal at sunrise for best experience.
• Stay near Golden Temple in Amritsar for comfort and safety.
• Travel light, keep ID copies, and carry a journal to document thoughts.

Final Reflection

This wasn’t just a sightseeing trip — it was a soul journey. From the calm of the Golden Temple to the energy at Wagah and the marvel of the Taj Mahal, I rediscovered myself. “Travel solo — not to escape life, but so life doesn’t escape you.”