One Day Itinerary: Taj Mahal, Haridwar

1. 6:00AM: Taj Mahal
   Open from sunrise to sunset (closed on Fridays)
   2 hours 30 minutes (124 miles) from Haridwar

   The Taj Mahal is a majestic mausoleum made of white marble and is one of the most iconic landmarks in India. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of love and devotion.

2. 10:00AM: Har Ki Pauri Ghat
   Open all day
   9 minutes (2.6 miles) from Taj Mahal

   Har Ki Pauri Ghat is a sacred and historic ghat alongside the Ganges River. It is believed that Lord Vishnu left his footprint on a stone here, and thousands of devotees come to take a holy dip in the river every day. The ghat is also famous for its evening aarti, a Hindu ritual of worship.

3. 12:00PM: Mansa Devi Temple
   Open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM
   16 minutes (4.2 miles) from Har Ki Pauri Ghat

   Mansa Devi Temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Mansa Devi, and it is located on top of Bilwa Parvat. The temple is accessible by cable car or by a steep climb of around 1.5 km. The panoramic views of Haridwar from the top are breathtaking.

4. 2:00PM: Shantikunj Ashram
   Open from 5:30 AM to 9:00 PM
   15 minutes (3.9 miles) from Mansa Devi Temple

   Shantikunj Ashram is a spiritual and educational center that promotes the practice of Gayatri Mantra, a powerful Vedic hymn. It is a place for self-transformation and personal growth and offers various courses and workshops on spirituality, yoga, and meditation.

5. 4:00PM: Chandi Devi Temple
   Open from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
   13 minutes (3.6 miles) from Shantikunj Ashram

   Chandi Devi Temple is another famous temple in Haridwar dedicated to the goddess Chandi. It is located on top of Neel Parvat hill and can be reached by a cable car or a strenuous climb. The temple offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the Ganges River.

6. 6:00PM: Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri Ghat
   Open all day, Ganga Aarti starts at 6:00 PM
   10 minutes (2.6 miles) from Chandi Devi Temple

   The Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri Ghat is a mesmerizing evening ritual that involves chanting, singing, and lighting of lamps. It is a beautiful way to offer prayers to the holy river Ganges and seek blessings for a peaceful life.

Recommendations

If you have more time, you can explore other attractions in Haridwar such as Maya Devi Temple, Daksheswara Mahadev Temple, and Bharat Mata Mandir. You can also take a side trip to Rishikesh, which is known as the yoga capital of the world and offers adventure activities like white water rafting and bungee jumping. To maximize your fun, try some local street food like chaat, samosa, and lassi. Don't forget to bargain while shopping for souvenirs in the local markets. Have a safe and enjoyable trip!

For hotel and flight bookings, please check https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo.