Arrive at Haridwar railway station (train lands ~7–8am), grab a taxi to your pre-booked hotel to drop bags and freshen up; staying in Haridwar keeps you close to the station for your early Monday departure.
Classic Haridwar vegetarian restaurant serving traditional North Indian breakfasts and thalis; it's convenient for a hearty start and is typically open from early morning (approx 7:00am).
Take the Mansa Devi cable car or walk up to the hilltop temple for panoramic views of Haridwar and a spiritual experience; ropeway generally runs from morning to early evening (approx 8:00am–5:30pm), so this fits your arrival day.
Try local specialties (puri, kachori, chole) at a popular local spot near the ghats; many stalls and small restaurants serve fresh vegetarian meals midday (most open by 8am and close mid-evening).
Explore the bustling lanes near Har Ki Pauri — buy religious items, woolens and local sweets; markets are open through the afternoon and a great place to pick small gifts and puja items.
Attend the evening Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat in Rishikesh — a serene, devotional ceremony at sunset; timing varies with sunset (around 5:30–6:15pm in November), so arrive 15–20 minutes early for a good spot.
Popular café on the Rishikesh side offering relaxed riverside or street-side dining with a varied menu; good place for a relaxed dinner after the Aarti (open evenings typically until 10–11pm).
Short drive to Rishikesh in the morning to make the most of daylight for sightseeing and activities; roads are quieter early so you reach popular spots quickly.
Enjoy a laid-back riverside breakfast at a popular café near Laxman Jhula; many cafes open from around 8:00am and serve healthy, international and Indian breakfast options.
Stroll across the iconic suspension bridges, visit riverside temples and take photos — these are Rishikesh's most famous landmarks and are open to the public all day.
Explore the graffiti-filled ruins and meditation caves of the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi ashram — the site is typically open to visitors (check local gate time, commonly 8:00am–5:00pm).
Have a leisurely lunch at a well-rated riverside restaurant offering both Indian and international dishes; good mid-day rest before afternoon activities.
If you're up for adventure book a rafting stretch (seasonal and requires pre-booking; typical half-day runs available) — alternatively relax at Ganga Beach or join a short yoga session.
Drop-in yoga session at a reputable ashram or a quiet riverside session to unwind; many studios offer evening classes (book in advance for popular schools).
For a quiet, spiritual experience visit Har Ki Pauri before dawn for peaceful views of the Ganges and morning prayers; the ghat area is accessible 24/7 but services and shops are quieter very early.
Return to your hotel to finalize checkout (or check out the night before) and take a short taxi ride to the station so you're comfortably there well before your 7:00am train departure.