3-Day Itinerary to Haridwar

Day 1: Tuesday, August 29, 2023

Morning: Start your day with a visit to Har Ki Pauri, a famous ghat on the banks of the Ganges River. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, where priests perform rituals with fire and chant hymns, creating a spiritual ambiance.

Afternoon: Explore the vibrant streets of Haridwar and visit Mansa Devi Temple. Take a cable car ride to the hilltop temple and enjoy panoramic views of Haridwar and the surrounding area.

Evening: Head to the Chandi Devi Temple, located atop Neel Parvat. Take a scenic ropeway ride to reach the temple and witness the breathtaking sunset over Haridwar.

• Har Ki Pauri: Free entry, approximately 2 hours
• Mansa Devi Temple: Cable car ticket costs around INR 170 (one-way), approximately 3 hours
• Chandi Devi Temple: Ropeway ticket costs around INR 110 (one-way), approximately 2 hours

Restaurants

• For a delicious breakfast, head to Cafe Coffee Day. They offer a variety of coffee, tea, and breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
• During lunchtime, visit Hoshiyarpuri Restaurant. They serve authentic Punjabi cuisine with a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
• For a memorable dinner experience, dine at The Great Indian Restaurant. They specialize in North Indian dishes and have a cozy ambiance. The average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.

Day 2: Wednesday, August 30, 2023

Morning: Embark on an early morning excursion to the Rajaji National Park. Take a safari tour and spot various wildlife species including elephants, tigers, leopards, and numerous bird species in their natural habitat.

Afternoon: Visit the iconic Maya Devi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Maya. Explore the historical and cultural significance of the temple, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Shiva's consort, Goddess Parvati.

Evening: Experience the tranquility of the Ganges River by taking a boat ride during the evening Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri. Watch as the river comes alive with the flickering lights from the diyas (oil lamps) and the sounds of devotional songs.

• Rajaji National Park: Safari costs approximately INR 800, approximately 4-5 hours
• Maya Devi Temple: Free entry, approximately 1-2 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri: Free entry, approximately 1 hour

Day 3: Thursday, August 31, 2023

Morning: Explore the spiritual and cultural side of Haridwar at the Bharat Mata Mandir. This unique temple is dedicated to Mother India and houses a relief map of the country made of marble.

Afternoon: Take a refreshing dip in the holy Ganges River at Har Ki Pauri and participate in the age-old practice of seeking blessings by offering prayers and floating diyas on the river.

Evening: Enjoy a serene walk along the picturesque ghats of Haridwar, such as Subhash Ghat and Vishnu Ghat, and witness the evening Ganga Aarti at these lesser-known but equally enchanting locations.

• Bharat Mata Mandir: Free entry, approximately 1-2 hours
• Har Ki Pauri for Ganges River dip: Free entry, approximately 1-2 hours
• Subhash Ghat and Vishnu Ghat: Free entry, approximately 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For those looking to explore off the beaten path attractions in Haridwar, a visit to the Bhuma Niketan Temple is highly recommended. This temple offers a tranquil retreat away from the bustling crowds and provides a serene environment for meditation and introspection.

Locals love to visit the Kankhal neighborhood, known for its ancient temples, ashrams, and spiritual centers. The Daksha Mahadev Temple, located in Kankhal, is a must-visit for its rich historical and mythological significance.

Check here to find the best hotel and flight prices for your stay in Haridwar.