Traditional local thali and chaat; both places are open through the afternoon and are good introductions to North Indian cuisine and prasad-like sweets.
Short temple visit — Mansa Devi has a ropeway (open ~9:00am–5:30pm) and offers panoramic views; Bharat Mata Mandir is multi-level and near Har Ki Pauri.
Witness the famous Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri at sunset (timing seasonal; typically ~5:45–6:30pm in October). It's the cultural highlight of Haridwar and best experienced from the ghats.
Classic Ganga rafting runs are available in October (seasonal windows) and normally operate from morning into late afternoon; a standard Grade I–III run takes ~2–3 hours and must be pre-booked.
A classic waterfall about 15–20 km from Mussoorie; open roughly 9:00am–5:00pm and best visited in the afternoon for swimming/photographs (may be crowded).
Short visits to nearby gardens or a small waterfall for relaxed nature time; entry and access times vary but parks are generally open through late afternoon.
Visit Eco Park for forest walks, bamboo huts and viewpoint platforms; Eco Park is open roughly 8:00am–6:00pm and great for a quiet couple of hours in October.
Early morning jeep safari requires advance booking and starts at sunrise; safaris generally operate early (approx 6:00am–9:00am) and are weather dependent in October.