Take an early morning flight from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (AMD) to Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) to maximise your first day in Delhi. Flights take ~1h45m; book an early slot to avoid afternoon traffic.
Drop bags at your hotel in central Delhi (Connaught Place/Chanakyapuri) and have a family-friendly breakfast — try Saravana Bhavan (South Indian vegetarian) or Wenger's Deli in Connaught Place for light options; hotels usually serve buffet till 10:30am.
Great for kids and train enthusiasts: outdoor exhibits and a toy train ride. The museum helps ease into the city with open spaces and interactive displays. (Open Tue–Sun ~10:00–17:00; closed Mon — check before visiting.)
Family-friendly lunch at Saravana Bhavan (vegetarian south Indian) or Odeon Social for varied dishes; both are close to central hotels and offer quick service for families.
A calm, spacious UNESCO site with gardens — less crowded than some monuments and good for family photos. (Typically open 7:00–17:00; check local hours.)
Family dinner at Moti Mahal Delux (North Indian), or Saravana Bhavan if you prefer South Indian — both offer reliable family menus and easy seating. Confirm opening hours (generally open till late evening).
Start at Red Fort to avoid crowds and heat — an iconic Mughal fort with ramparts and museums. (Typically open 9:30–16:30; closed on some national holidays — check in advance.)
Visit Jama Masjid (open 7:00am–12:30pm and 1:30pm–6:30pm approx.), then take a short rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk: spice markets, sweets and Paranthe Wali Gali. Perfect for family photos and local flavour.
Lunch at Karim's (known for Mughlai dishes) or Haldiram / Bikanervala for a quicker family option; these are close to Old Delhi attractions and offer child-friendly menu choices.
If the family has energy, visit Akshardham (open Tue–Sun ~9:30–18:30, closed Mon). The campus has gardens, exhibitions and family-friendly displays; check timings for the cultural shows and security rules before visiting.
Early dinner in Delhi and pack for the short trip north to Haridwar tomorrow; choose easy-to-reach restaurant near hotel. If you prefer to travel tonight, book an AC train or private car (evening trains available but family comfort often better with morning car).
Pick up by private car for a comfortable family journey north to Haridwar (approx 4–5 hours depending on traffic). This gives flexibility for stops and luggage — alternatively book a morning Shatabdi/express train (~4–5 hours).
Check into a river-facing hotel near Har Ki Pauri. Have a relaxed lunch at the hotel or local restaurant such as Chotiwala (well-known family-friendly spot) — many places serve vegetarian North Indian thalis.
Take the ropeway (Mansa Devi) for panoramic views of Haridwar and a quick temple visit; ropeway hours typically ~9:00–18:00 but verify seasonal timings. Great for families who prefer less walking uphill.
Visit Chandi Devi (ropeway/cable car available 9:00–18:00) or stroll the markets near Har Ki Pauri for devotional items and sweets — an easy paced family afternoon.
Attend the famous evening Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri — a moving spectacle for all ages. Aarti time varies with sunset (around 18:30–19:15 in August); arrive early to get good family seating and watch the ritual from the ghats.
Dinner at Chotiwala or a hotel restaurant; typical local fare includes daal, sabzi, rice and sweets. Many family-friendly vegetarian options are available and remain open till late evening.
Take a gentle early-morning walk along the Ganga to see devotees and morning puja; cooler and less crowded — great for family photos and a peaceful start.
Drive back to Indira Gandhi International Airport (approx 4–5 hours). Leave mid-morning to allow buffer time for traffic and airport check-in for an evening flight home to Ahmedabad.
Arrive at the airport, check in and relax with light snacks or an early dinner at the airport lounges/restaurants. Aim for a flight after 19:00 to allow comfortable transit time.