Start your family-friendly trip to Haridwar by immersing yourself in the sacred atmosphere of Har Ki Pauri. In the morning, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony performed at the banks of the holy Ganges River. Afterward, explore the bustling streets of Haridwar and indulge in some delicious street food. In the afternoon, take a cable car ride to the enchanting Mansa Devi Temple, offering panoramic views of the city. As the evening sets in, visit the Swami Vivekananda Park, a serene and picturesque spot to unwind.
Har Ki Pauri: Free, 2-3 hours
Mansa Devi Temple: Cable car ride - INR 110 per person, 1-2 hours
Swami Vivekananda Park: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with an authentic Indian breakfast at Mathura Walon Ki Pracheen Dukan. This popular eatery offers mouthwatering dishes like aloo puri and kachori. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Hoshiyarpuri Restaurant and try their delicious Punjabi cuisine. Their butter chicken and dal makhani are highly recommended. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Enjoy a flavorful dinner at Big Ben Restaurant, known for its wide variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Their tandoori specialties and biryanis are a must-try. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Sunday, August 13: Exploring Haridwar
Start your day with a visit to the Chandi Devi Temple, perched atop the Neel Parvat Hill. Take a thrilling cable car ride to reach the temple and enjoy the breathtaking views. Afterward, head to the Bharat Mata Mandir, a unique temple dedicated to Mother India, showcasing a relief map of the entire nation. In the afternoon, visit the Sapt Rishi Ashram, a tranquil haven on the banks of the Ganges, where according to Hindu mythology, seven sages meditated. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the picturesque ghats of Haridwar.
Chandi Devi Temple: Cable car ride - INR 110 per person, 2-3 hours
Bharat Mata Mandir: Free, 1-2 hours
Sapt Rishi Ashram: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Mohan Ji Puri Wale, a popular local eatery known for its delicious and piping hot puris served with aloo sabzi. The average cost for a meal here is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, try Chotiwala Restaurant, a well-known vegetarian restaurant in Haridwar. They offer a variety of North Indian dishes, including thalis and traditional sweets. The average cost for a meal here is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Hoshiyarpuri Restaurant, known for its authentic Punjabi cuisine. They serve mouthwatering dishes like butter chicken and paneer tikka. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 INR per person.
Monday, August 14: A Day in Rishikesh
Embark on a short journey to the spiritual town of Rishikesh, often called the Yoga Capital of the World. Start your day by visiting the iconic Laxman Jhula, a suspended bridge offering magnificent views of the Ganges. Explore the myriad of ashrams and temples near the bridge. In the afternoon, take a peaceful boat ride on the holy river and experience the calming atmosphere. Afterward, visit the Beatles Ashram, where the famous band once stayed and meditated. End your day by attending a meditation or yoga session at one of Rishikesh's renowned yoga centers.
Laxman Jhula: Free, 2-3 hours
Boat ride on the Ganges: INR 200-300 per boat, 1-2 hours
Beatles Ashram: INR 150 per person, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Rishikesh is Chotiwala, known for its delicious Indian breakfast dishes such as puri bhaji and aloo paratha. The average cost for a meal at Chotiwala is about 150 Rupees per person.
For lunch, head to The Sitting Elephant, a charming restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere. They serve a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including delicious thalis and sandwiches. The average cost for a meal at The Sitting Elephant is about 300 Rupees per person.
For a tasty dinner option, try Little Buddha Cafe located near Laxman Jhula. This rooftop restaurant offers a cozy setting with beautiful views of the Ganges. They specialize in continental and Italian cuisine, with a range of options including wood-fired pizzas and pasta dishes. The average cost for a meal at Little Buddha Cafe is about 500 Rupees per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While in Rishikesh, make sure to explore the tranquil Neer Garh Waterfall, perfect for a refreshing dip and picnic with your family. Additionally, visit the Swarg Ashram, a peaceful retreat known for its spiritual ambiance and stunning river views. Don't miss out on trying the local delicacies like Aloo Poori and Kachori at Chotiwala Restaurant, a popular eatery loved by both locals and tourists alike.
To check hotel and flight prices for your trip to Haridwar and Rishikesh, click here.