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8 Day Vegetarian-Friendly Uttarakhand Wonders Itinerary January 11 to January 18 2026

Viewed by 55 travelers
Day 1 · Sun, Jan 11
Jim Corbett National Park

Arrival and Wilderness Exploration at Jim Corbett

12:00 PM:

Arrive and check into the eco-friendly Aahana The Corbett Wilderness resort, where you can relax by the Kosi River and enjoy a refreshing welcome drink before your first vegetarian meal.

1:00 PM:

Indulge in a sustainable farm-to-fork vegetarian lunch at Dhikala Restaurant, sampling local delicacies like Kafuli while overlooking the lush greenery.

2:30 PM:

Embark on an exhilarating afternoon jeep safari through the Bijrani Zone, where you will search for the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger and the Asiatic Elephant in their natural habitat.

4:30 PM:

Visit the iconic Garjiya Devi Temple, a sacred site uniquely perched on a large boulder in the middle of the Kosi River, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the jungle.

5:30 PM:

Unwind after the safari with a refreshing cup of herbal tea and local snacks at the Riverside Sit-out of your resort, keeping an eye out for wildlife near the Kosi River banks.

6:30 PM:

Attend an informative wildlife documentary screening or a traditional folk dance performance organized by the naturalists at Aahana The Corbett Wilderness.

8:00 PM:

Enjoy a curated multi-cuisine vegetarian dinner at The Nest, featuring traditional Kumaoni dishes like Gahat Dal and freshly baked breads from their Wood-fired Oven.

9:30 PM:

Conclude your day with a peaceful night walk around the periphery of the resort under the guidance of a resort naturalist, or simply enjoy stargazing in the clear skies of the Corbett Landscape.

Day 2 · Mon, Jan 12
Nainital

Morning Safari and Scenic Transfer to Nainital

5:30 AM:

Wake up early for a warm cup of herbal tea at Aahana The Corbett Wilderness as you prepare for a dawn exploration of the park.

6:00 AM:

Set out on a thrilling sunrise jeep safari into the Dhela Zone, known for its mixed deciduous forests and sightings of the Royal Bengal Tiger and Asian Elephant.

8:30 AM:

Stop for a moment of quiet observation at the Laldhang area to spot vibrant bird species like the Crested Serpent Eagle and the Plum-headed Parakeet.

9:30 AM:

Return to the resort for a lavish vegetarian breakfast at The Nest, featuring local Kumaoni specialities like Bhatt ki Churkani served with fresh hot rotis.

11:00 AM:

Check out from your forest lodge and begin the picturesque uphill drive toward Nainital, stopping for a quick photo at the scenic Khurpatal Lake Viewpoint.

12:30 PM:

Arrive in the lake district and check into The Naini Retreat, a grand heritage hotel that once served as the summer residence of the Maharaja of Pilibhit.

1:30 PM:

Head to the iconic Mall Road for a nutritious vegetarian lunch at Zooby's Kitchen, known for its warm ambiance and delicious Vegetable Biryani.

3:00 PM:

Experience a peaceful rowboat or pedal boat ride on the emerald waters of Naini Lake, surrounded by the seven lush hills of the Kumaon range.

4:30 PM:

Walk to the northern edge of the lake to visit the historic Naina Devi Temple, a significant spiritual site dedicated to Goddess Sati overlooking the water.

5:30 PM:

Explore the narrow lanes of the Tibetan Market or Bhotia Market, where you can find unique handmade woolens and aromatic Nainital Candles.

6:30 PM:

Take a tranquil walk along the Thandi Sadak, the quieter, tree-lined promenade on the western bank of Naini Lake, to witness the magical reflection of city lights dance on the water.

7:30 PM:

Head to Gianni's Pure Veg on the Mall Road for a traditional North Indian vegetarian feast, featuring their signature Dal Makhani and stuffed Amritsari Kulchas.

8:30 PM:

Stop by the legendary Sakley's The Pastry Shop & Restaurant to enjoy a warm hot chocolate or a slice of their famous chocolate truffle cake in a cozy, mountain-cabin-style setting.

9:30 PM:

Return to The Naini Retreat and unwind by the outdoor bonfire, enjoying the crisp January night air of the Kumaon Hills before retiring to your heritage room.

Day 3 · Tue, Jan 13
Nainital

Lakeside Charm and Local Sightseeing

7:30 AM:

Begin your morning with a nutritious vegetarian breakfast at The Naini Retreat, featuring local Kumaoni delights such as Kumaoni Raita and hot Aloo Parathas served with fresh butter.

9:00 AM:

Hike or take a pony ride to Tiffin Top, also known as Dorothy's Seat, to capture spectacular early morning photographs of the Nanda Devi peak and the surrounding Kumaon landscape.

10:30 AM:

Board the Nainital Ropeway for a scenic aerial ride to Snow View Point, where you can enjoy clear views of the high Himalayan peaks through fixed binoculars at the observation deck.

11:30 AM:

Explore the fascinating Eco Cave Gardens, a network of interconnected natural rocky caves such as the Tiger Cave and Panther Cave, designed to showcase the habitat of Himalayan wildlife.

12:30 PM:

Head to Mall Road for a flavorful vegetarian lunch at Chandni Chowk Restaurant, where you can enjoy traditional North Indian favorites like Dal Makhani and Paneer Tikka in a vibrant, bustling setting.

2:00 PM:

Visit the Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo, home to rare Himalayan species such as the Snow Leopard, Red Panda, and the Golden Eagle, all while enjoying panoramic views of the Naini Valley.

3:30 PM:

Explore the colonial grandeur of Raj Bhawan, known as the Governor's House, to admire its stunning Scottish Gothic architecture and take a serene walk through the surrounding Blue Pine Forest.

5:00 PM:

Indulge in a peaceful afternoon tea at Cafe Chica, an elegant garden café located within the heritage Abbotsford Estate, perfect for savoring freshly brewed tea and Saffron Walnut Cake.

6:00 PM:

Take a leisurely evening walk along the Lower Mall Road, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere as the town lights begin to twinkle and reflect on the surface of Naini Lake.

7:00 PM:

Explore the bustling lanes of Bara Bazaar, where you can shop for local specialties like handmade wooden artifacts, decorative candles, and authentic Kumaoni pulses and spices.

8:30 PM:

Enjoy a traditional North Indian vegetarian dinner at Purohit Restaurant, highly recommended for its authentic Kumaoni Thali and warm, family-friendly service.

10:00 PM:

Wrap up your evening with a quiet stroll near the Pant Statue to soak in the midnight silence of the hills before retiring to your room at The Naini Retreat.

Day 4 · Wed, Jan 14
Auli

Picturesque Mountain Journey to Auli

6:30 AM:

Check out from The Naini Retreat after an early morning tea, taking one last look at the mist rising over the tranquil Naini Lake.

7:30 AM:

Begin your long-distance drive to Auli, stopping briefly at the spiritual Kainchi Dham Ashram, made famous by the teachings of Neem Karoli Baba.

8:30 AM:

Enjoy a wholesome vegetarian breakfast at a local hillside eatery in Bhowali, savoring hot Pahadi Parathas and a steaming cup of Masala Chai.

10:30 AM:

Pause for a stretch and some photography at the Kausani Tea Estate overlook, where you can admire the sprawling green gardens against the backdrop of the Someshwar Valley.

11:30 AM:

Continue the ascent through the scenic town of Gwaldam, an intersection of Garhwal and Kumaon regions known for its dense pine forests and view of the Pindari Glacier.

12:30 PM:

Stop for a traditional Garhwali vegetarian lunch in Karnaprayag, one of the sacred Panch Prayags, where you can enjoy local specialties like Mandua ki Roti while overlooking the confluence of the Alaknanda River and Pindar River.

2:30 PM:

Navigate the scenic route past Nandaprayag, observing the beautiful merging of the Alaknanda River and Nandakini River, a sight that showcases the raw power of the Garhwal region's water systems.

3:30 PM:

Arrive in the historic town of Joshimath and visit the ancient Narsingh Temple, which serves as the winter seat for the deity of Badrinath and features historic stone carvings.

4:30 PM:

Board the famous Joshimath-Auli Ropeway, one of the longest cable car rides in Asia, to ascend toward the ski slopes while capturing bird's-eye views of the Greater Himalayas.

5:30 PM:

Check into your accommodation at The Cliff Top Club and settle onto your balcony to witness the golden sunset reflecting off the majestic peaks of Nanda Devi and Trishul.

6:30 PM:

Bundle up in warm layers for a serene guided walk near the Auli Artificial Lake, where the calm, high-altitude waters reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks under the rising moon.

7:30 PM:

Savor a hearty vegetarian dinner at the resort's in-house restaurant, Skating Kitchen, opting for a warm bowl of Garhwali Chainsoo and Mandua ki Roti to recharge after the long mountain drive.

8:30 PM:

Relax by a cozy indoor fireplace or a controlled outdoor bonfire at The Cliff Top Club, sipping on a steaming cup of Ginger Honey Lemon Tea while sharing travel stories with fellow explorers.

9:30 PM:

Conclude your day with a session of stargazing on the terrace, identifying the prominent constellations visible in the clear, unpolluted skies of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve before resting for the night.

Day 5 · Thu, Jan 15
Auli

Snow Adventures and Panoramic Himalayan Views

6:00 AM:

Wake up to witness the spectacular "Golden Peak" phenomenon as the first rays of the sun illuminate Nanda Devi, the second-highest peak in India, right from your balcony at The Cliff Top Club.

7:30 AM:

Enjoy a nutritious vegetarian breakfast at the Skating Kitchen restaurant, featuring local favorites like Pahadi Parathas and freshly made Jhangora Ki Kheer to prepare for your mountain adventure.

9:00 AM:

Head to the Auli Ski Slopes for an introductory skiing lesson with a certified instructor from the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN), taking advantage of the prime January snow conditions.

10:30 AM:

Begin a scenic trek toward Gorson Bugyal, a high-altitude alpine meadow that offers majestic 360-degree views of the Himalayan Range, including the peaks of Trishul, Hathi Parbat, and Kamet.

11:30 AM:

Visit the striking Auli Artificial Lake, the world's highest man-made lake, and learn how its water is utilized to power the snow guns used to maintain the ski tracks throughout the season.

12:30 PM:

Savor a flavorful vegetarian lunch at Auli D's Food Plaza, where you can enjoy local North Indian dishes and hot Maggi while taking in the chilled mountain air.

2:00 PM:

Experience a scenic ride on the Auli Chair Lift, which provides a breathtaking perspective of the oak and coniferous forests as you glide silently above the snowy trails.

3:30 PM:

Embark on a gentle walk to the Auli Hanuman Temple, a tranquil shrine located in a pristine clearing that offers spiritual calm and views of the surrounding Garhwal Himalayas.

5:00 PM:

Gather at the high-altitude Sunset Point Auli to witness the peaks of Trishul and Nanda Devi glow with a final golden hue before the mountains transition into the twilight blue.

6:00 PM:

Return to the cozy lounge at The Cliff Top Club to warm up with a steaming pot of Herbal Tea while sharing stories of your trek to Gorson Bugyal with other travelers.

7:00 PM:

Bundle up for a short moonlit stroll to the nearby GMVN Auli terrace, where you can admire the ethereal silver glow of the moonlight reflecting off the Himalayan Peaks.

8:30 PM:

Indulge in a wholesome vegetarian dinner at Auli Indian Bhog, savoring the flavors of their signature Paneer Butter Masala and Kadhai Vegetable served with fresh hot Tandoori Rotis.

10:00 PM:

Conclude your day with a comforting cup of warm Kesar Badam Milk in your room, enjoying the absolute mountain silence of the Joshimath-Auli region before going to sleep.

Day 6 · Fri, Jan 16
Rishikesh

Riverside Spirituality and Yoga in Rishikesh

6:00 AM:

Begin your early morning descent from Auli toward the plains, offering a final prayer at the Narsingh Temple in Joshimath as the first light hits the Himalayan Peaks.

7:30 AM:

Pause your mountain drive for a short walk through the historic Shankaracharya Math in Joshimath, exploring the ancient caves where the sage once meditated.

8:30 AM:

Stop for a nutritious vegetarian breakfast at a hillside cafe in Pipalkoti, savoring hot Pahadi Parathas while listening to the distant roar of the Alaknanda River.

10:30 AM:

Observe the magnificent spiritual confluence at Karnaprayag, where the Pindar River and Alaknanda River meet amidst the rugged beauty of the Garhwal region.

11:30 AM:

Stretch your legs at Rudraprayag, capturing photos of the sacred Jagdamba Devi Temple located at the junction where the Mandakini and Alaknanda rivers unite.

12:30 PM:

Witness the awe-inspiring sight at Devprayag, the most significant of the Panch Prayags, where the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda merge to officially become the Holy Ganges.

1:30 PM:

Savor a traditional vegetarian lunch at a local hilltop eatery in Devprayag, enjoying a final view of the sacred confluence before the river officially becomes the Holy Ganges.

3:00 PM:

Complete your atmospheric descent into the foothills and arrive in the spiritual hub of Rishikesh, checking into the riverside Aloha On The Ganges resort to settle into the serene Tapovan district.

4:30 PM:

Wander across the iconic suspension bridge of Laxman Jhula, stopping to admire the multi-story shrines of the Trayambakeshwar Temple and the turquoise flow of the river below.

5:30 PM:

Browse the vibrant lanes of the Laxman Jhula Market, searching for authentic Rudraksha beads and sampling a warm cup of organic tea at the riverside Freedom Cafe.

6:00 PM:

Head towards the Parmarth Niketan Ashram to witness the soul-stirring Ganga Aarti, a beautiful ceremony of light and music where oil lamps are offered to the Holy Ganges during sunset.

7:30 PM:

Settle in for a traditional vegetarian dinner at the legendary Chotiwala Restaurant near Ram Jhula, where you can savor their famous Special Thali in a vibrant, historic atmosphere.

8:30 PM:

Take a tranquil evening walk across the Ram Jhula bridge, enjoying the reflection of the illuminated ashrams like Swarg Ashram and Geeta Bhawan on the shimmering river surface.

9:30 PM:

Return to your retreat at Aloha On The Ganges and enjoy a final cup of warm Tulsi Tea on the outdoor deck while listening to the peaceful nighttime sounds of the Ganges River valley.

Day 7 · Sat, Jan 17
Dehradun and Mussoorie

Dehradun Highlights and Transfer to Mussoorie

7:00 AM:

Start your morning with a peaceful sunrise yoga session followed by a hearty vegetarian breakfast at Aloha On The Ganges in Rishikesh before checking out.

8:30 AM:

Begin your scenic drive from Rishikesh to Dehradun, passing through the lush forests of the Rajaji National Park buffer zone.

9:45 AM:

Arrive at the Mindrolling Monastery in Clement Town, where you can admire the magnificent Great Stupa and find inner peace in the beautifully landscaped Tibetan Botanical Garden.

11:15 AM:

Head to the natural wonders of Robber's Cave (locally known as Guchhupani), to wade through the cool waters of this unique 600-meter-long river canyon hidden between limestone walls.

12:30 PM:

Relish a hearty North Indian vegetarian lunch at the legendary Kumar Vegetarian on Rajpur Road, highly praised for its authentic Dal Makhani and freshly prepared Stuffed Parathas.

2:00 PM:

Visit the majestic Forest Research Institute (FRI) to marvel at its sprawling Greco-Roman architecture and wander through the Botany Museum and Silviculture Museum set within the lush campus.

3:30 PM:

Begin your scenic uphill drive toward the 'Queen of Hills,' making a brief stop at the Malsi Deer Park to spot spotted deer and various species of Himalayan birds in their natural surroundings.

4:45 PM:

Arrive in Mussoorie and check into your heritage stay at The Savoy, an iconic hotel known for its English Gothic architecture and breathtaking views of the Himalayan Range.

5:30 PM:

Embark on a refreshing walk along Camel's Back Road, a tranquil nature trail shaped like a camel's hump, where you can witness the spectacular 'winter line' sunset over the Doon Valley.

6:30 PM:

Stroll through the vibrant Mall Road, soaking in the colonial-era charm while browsing for local handicrafts, woolens, and souvenirs at the lively Kulri Bazaar section.

7:30 PM:

Visit the historic Library Chowk, where you can admire the iconic Victorian-style Mussoorie Library and enjoy the festive evening atmosphere that defines the heart of the town.

8:30 PM:

Indulge in a flavorful vegetarian Tibetan and Chinese feast at Kalsang Friends Corner, savoring their highly-rated Veg Devil Momos and Clear Noodle Soup in a cozy, authentic setting.

10:00 PM:

Return to the elegant premises of The Savoy to enjoy the quietude of the hills, perhaps taking a final look at the shimmering lights of Dehradun far below in the valley before retiring.

Day 8 · Sun, Jan 18
Mussoorie

Exploring the Queen of Hills and Departure

7:30 AM:

Greet the morning with a final lavish vegetarian breakfast at The Savoy, enjoying local Pahadi specialties and fresh fruit while taking in the serene views of the Doon Valley.

9:00 AM:

Travel to Lal Tibba Scenic Point, the highest peak in Mussoorie, to capture magnificent photographs of the Bandarpunch and Kedarnath mountain peaks using the long-range telescopes.

10:30 AM:

Explore the quiet, heritage-filled lanes of Landour and stop at the iconic Char Dukan cluster for a legendary plate of vegetable pancakes and warm ginger lemon tea at Tip Top Tea Shop.

11:30 AM:

Walk toward Sister's Bazaar to visit the historic A. Prakash & Co., where you can purchase authentic vegetarian local preserves, famous peanut butter, and artisanal Himalayan cheeses as souvenirs.

12:30 PM:

Enjoy a nutritious vegetarian lunch at Little Llama Cafe, savoring their signature Veg Mezze Platter and thick milkshakes while taking in the expansive views of the mountain slopes.

2:00 PM:

Drive to the spectacular Kempty Falls, where you can witness the cascading water drop from over 40 feet and explore the surrounding local market stalls for unique Garhwali handicrafts.

3:30 PM:

Visit the historic Sir George Everest's House, a colonial heritage building offering a panoramic overlook of the Aglar River Valley and the towering peaks of the Greater Himalayas.

5:00 PM:

Conclude your mountain journey with a final ride on the Mussoorie Ropeway to the summit of Gun Hill, soaking in a breathtaking sunset view of the Doon Valley before heading toward Dehradun Railway Station or Jolly Grant Airport for your departure.

6:30 PM:

Begin your final descent along the scenic Mussoorie-Dehradun Road, pausing at the Mussoorie Lake Viewpoint to watch the glittering lights of the Doon Valley emerge as night falls.

7:30 PM:

Reach the peaceful outskirts of Dehradun and indulge in a final vegetarian-friendly meal at Orchard in Rajpur, enjoying their popular Vegetable Momos and Thukpa in a charming outdoor setting.

8:30 PM:

Navigate toward the Jolly Grant Airport or Dehradun Railway Station, taking a moment to appreciate the fragrant pine and sal trees of the Rajaji National Park buffer zone one last time.

9:30 PM:

Arrive at your departure point, whether it be the Jolly Grant Airport or the Dehradun Railway Station, to complete your check-in formalities for your journey home, concluding your 8-day tour of the Himalayas.

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