Adventurous Journey through Haridwar, Rishikesh, Auli, Chopta, and Dehradun
Friday, December 1: Haridwar
Start your adventure by visiting Haridwar, known as the gateway to the Himalayas. In the morning, take a dip in the holy Ganges River at Har Ki Pauri ghat. Experience the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony, a mesmerizing ritual of worship and devotion. Explore the bustling streets of Haridwar, filled with shops selling religious items and traditional food.
Har Ki Pauri Ghat: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Ganga Aarti Ceremony: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
Exploring the streets of Haridwar: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - Flexible
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Chotiwala Restaurant, a popular eatery known for its delicious Indian breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try the vegetarian thali at Hoshiyar Puri, a local favorite offering a variety of authentic North Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, indulge in the flavors of Punjab at Panditji Da Dhaba, a rustic roadside restaurant known for its lip-smacking tandoori dishes and curries. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Saturday, December 2: Rishikesh
Embark on an adrenaline-fueled day in Rishikesh, the yoga capital of the world. Start your morning with a thrilling white-water rafting adventure on the Ganges River. Afternoon, trek to the famous Neer Garh Waterfall and enjoy a refreshing dip in its crystal-clear waters. In the evening, witness the tranquil Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.
White-water rafting: Estimated cost - INR 1,500 per person, Time spent - 4 hours
Trek to Neer Garh Waterfall: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Breakfast: Head to Devraj Coffee Corner for a delicious breakfast of freshly brewed coffee and mouth-watering sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Lunch: Indulge in a flavorful Indian feast at Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its authentic vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Dinner: Treat your taste buds to a scrumptious meal at The Sitting Elephant, offering a wide range of international cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, December 3: Auli
Head to Auli, a picturesque ski destination in the Himalayas. Spend the morning skiing or snowboarding on the slopes of Auli. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. In the afternoon, take a cable car ride to Gurso Bugyal, a beautiful meadow offering panoramic vistas. End the day with a bonfire and stargazing at your hotel.
Skiing/Snowboarding in Auli: Estimated cost - INR 2,500 per person, Time spent - 4 hours
Cable car ride to Gurso Bugyal: Estimated cost - INR 750 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Bonfire and stargazing at the hotel: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Flexible
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Nanda Devi Dhaba, offering delicious local cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to Himalayan View Restaurant, known for its stunning views of the mountains. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Indulge in a flavorful dinner at Clifftop Club Restaurant, offering a range of cuisine options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Monday, December 4: Chopta
Explore the serene beauty of Chopta, also known as the "Mini Switzerland of India." Start your day with a trek to Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world. Enjoy the breathtaking views from Chandrashila Peak. Afternoon, visit Deoria Tal, a pristine lake surrounded by lush greenery. Spend the evening camping under the starry sky.
Trek to Tungnath Temple and Chandrashila Peak: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 6 hours
Camping in Chopta: Estimated cost - INR 1,500 per person, Time spent - Flexible
Tuesday, December 5: Dehradun
Travel to Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand. Start your morning with a visit to Robber's Cave, a natural cave formation with a river flowing through it. Afternoon, explore the lush Rajaji National Park, home to diverse wildlife. In the evening, take a stroll along the vibrant Paltan Bazaar and indulge in local street food.
Robber's Cave: Estimated cost - INR 25 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Rajaji National Park: Estimated cost - INR 150 per person, Time spent - 4 hours
Wednesday, December 6: Dehradun (Day Trip to Mussoorie)
Take a day trip to the enchanting hill station of Mussoorie. Start your day with a visit to Kempty Falls, where you can take a refreshing dip in the cascading waters. Afternoon, explore the vibrant Mall Road and indulge in local shopping. Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas from the famous Gun Hill viewpoint.
Kempty Falls: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
Gun Hill viewpoint: Estimated cost - INR 75 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
Thursday, December 7: Dehradun (Hidden Gems and Local Favorites)
For adventure seekers, head to The Doon Valley Adventure Park, a hidden gem offering thrilling activities like ziplining, rock climbing, and obstacle courses. Nature lovers can explore the lush beauty of Malsi Deer Park. Don't miss out on sampling local delicacies at the Tibetan Market.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites:
The Doon Valley Adventure Park: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - Flexible
Malsi Deer Park: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Tibetan Market: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - Flexible
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For adrenaline junkies, head to Shivpuri near Rishikesh for thrilling activities like river rafting, rappelling, and cliff jumping. Adventure enthusiasts can also try bungee jumping at Jumpin Heights in Mohan Chatti. Explore the offbeat village of Kanatal, known for its panoramic views and peaceful environment.