Family-Friendly 3-Day Itinerary in Haridwar

Saturday, August 5, 2023: Exploring Haridwar

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of Haridwar, a holy city in Uttarakhand, India. In the morning, visit Har Ki Pauri, a sacred ghat on the banks of the Ganges River. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, where devotees offer prayers to the river. Afterward, head to Mansa Devi Temple, located atop Bilwa Parvat. Take the cable car ride to reach the temple and enjoy panoramic views of Haridwar.

• Har Ki Pauri: Free, 2-3 hours
• Mansa Devi Temple: Cable car ride - INR 100 ($1.34), 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot near Har Ki Pauri is Mohan Ji Puri Wale, known for its delicious puri bhaji and chai. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about 50 INR per person.
• For lunch, try Hoshiyar Puri, a restaurant famous for its authentic North Indian cuisine. Enjoy their thali meals with a variety of curries and breads. The average cost for a lunch meal is about 200 INR per person.
• In the evening, head to Chotiwala Restaurant for a traditional Indian dinner. Indulge in their famous thali, which includes a variety of curries, rice, bread, and desserts. The average cost for a dinner meal is about 300 INR per person.

Sunday, August 6, 2023: Wildlife and Nature

Embark on a day of adventure and nature exploration. Start your morning by visiting Rajaji National Park, located on the outskirts of Haridwar. Enjoy a jungle safari to spot various wildlife species such as elephants, tigers, leopards, and deer. Afterward, head to Chandi Devi Temple, situated atop Neel Parvat. Reach the temple by taking the ropeway and admire the scenic beauty of the surrounding forests.

• Rajaji National Park: Safari - INR 600 ($8), 4-5 hours
• Chandi Devi Temple: Ropeway - INR 160 ($2.14), 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Cafe Coffee Day, located near Rajaji National Park. Indulge in a variety of breakfast options such as sandwiches, muffins, and pancakes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
• For lunch, visit Bhajan Singh Dhaba, a popular local eatery near Chandi Devi Temple. Enjoy mouthwatering North Indian dishes like tandoori chicken, dal makhani, and butter naan. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
• For dinner, try Hoshiyarpuri, situated in the heart of Haridwar. Savor the flavors of authentic Punjabi cuisine including sarson ka saag, makki di roti, and lassi. Average cost for a meal is about INR 400 per person.

Monday, August 7, 2023: Cultural Exploration

Dive deep into the rich cultural heritage of Haridwar. Begin your day by visiting the iconic Bharat Mata Mandir, dedicated to Mother India. Explore the temple complex showcasing various deities and a detailed map of India carved in marble. In the afternoon, visit the Swami Vivekananda Park, a serene green space along the Ganges River, perfect for a picnic or leisurely stroll. End your trip with a visit to the Daksha Mahadev Temple, known for its intricate architecture and religious significance.

• Bharat Mata Mandir: Free, 1-2 hours
• Swami Vivekananda Park: Free, 1-2 hours
• Daksha Mahadev Temple: Free, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Haridwar, make sure to visit the Neer Garh Waterfall, a hidden gem nestled amidst lush greenery. Take a refreshing dip in the cool waters and enjoy the serene ambiance. Another local favorite is the Haridwar Market, known for its vibrant colors and bustling atmosphere. Explore the market to find unique handicrafts, religious items, and delicious street food. Don't miss trying the local delicacy of Haridwar, "Aloo Poori," a dish made with deep-fried bread and potato curry.

For hotel and flight prices in Haridwar, click here.