Four Days in Haridwar Rishikesh: A Family Friendly Itinerary

Thursday, September 7: Arrival in Haridwar

Start your trip by arriving in the holy city of Haridwar. Known for its spiritual significance, Haridwar offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere. In the morning, visit Har Ki Pauri, the famous ghat on the banks of the Ganges River. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony in the evening. Take a dip in the holy river and seek blessings at the temples around Har Ki Pauri.

• Har Ki Pauri: Free entry, 2 hours

Friday, September 8: Exploring Rishikesh

In the morning, travel to Rishikesh, the Yoga Capital of the World. Start your day with a visit to the iconic Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula, suspension bridges offering panoramic views of the Ganges. Explore the ashrams and temples in the vicinity, including the famous Parmarth Niketan Ashram. In the afternoon, enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the Ganges. End your day with a visit to the Beatles Ashram, where the Beatles sought spiritual enlightenment.

• Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula: Free entry, 2 hours
• Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free entry, 1 hour
• Boat Ride on the Ganges: INR 200 per person, 1 hour
• Beatles Ashram: INR 150 per person, 1 hour

Saturday, September 9: Adventure in Rishikesh

Embark on an adventurous day in Rishikesh. Start your morning with a thrilling river rafting experience on the Ganges, suitable for the whole family. Afterward, visit the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, situated amidst lush greenery and surrounded by scenic views. In the afternoon, try your hand at zip-lining, rock climbing, or rappelling at one of the adventure camps in the area. End the day by attending a mesmerizing evening Ganga Aarti ceremony at Triveni Ghat.

• River Rafting: INR 1,000 per person, 4 hours
• Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: Free entry, 2 hours
• Adventure Activities: Prices vary, 2-3 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat: Free entry, 1 hour

Restaurants

• The Bake House: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at The Bake House, known for their freshly baked pastries, breads, and savory options. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
• Punjabi Tadka: For a satisfying lunch, head to Punjabi Tadka, a popular restaurant offering a wide range of North Indian dishes, including lip-smacking Punjabi cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• Haveli Restaurant: Indulge in a delightful dinner experience at Haveli Restaurant, known for its authentic Indian flavors and elegant ambience. They offer a variety of dishes ranging from vegetarian to non-vegetarian options. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.

Sunday, September 10: Yoga and Relaxation

Indulge in a day of relaxation and rejuvenation in Rishikesh. Begin your morning with a yoga class at one of the renowned yoga centers in the city. Afterward, visit the Sivananda Ashram to delve deeper into your yoga practice. In the afternoon, explore the local markets and shops, where you can purchase traditional handicrafts and souvenirs. End your day with a tranquil sunset meditation session on the banks of the Ganges.

• Yoga Class: Prices vary, 2 hours
• Sivananda Ashram: Free entry, 1 hour
• Shopping in Rishikesh: Prices vary, 2 hours
• Sunset Meditation: Free, 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Haridwar and Rishikesh, make sure to visit the picturesque Rajaji National Park, located on the outskirts of the cities. This national park is known for its rich biodiversity and offers various activities like wildlife safaris, bird watching, and nature trails. Another hidden gem is the Vashishta Gufa, a secluded cave believed to be the meditation spot of the great sage Vashishta. It offers a peaceful environment for introspection and meditation. These off the beaten path attractions are perfect for families looking to connect with nature and seek tranquility.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.