7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary: Haridwar and Rishikesh

Monday, November 13: Arrival in Haridwar

Welcome to Haridwar! Start your day by taking a peaceful morning walk along the holy Ganges River. Afterward, visit Har Ki Pauri Ghat, a famous bathing spot where you can witness the mesmerizing evening aarti ceremony. End the day with a visit to the vibrant and bustling Haridwar Market.

• Morning: Ganges River Walk - Free, 1-2 hours
• Afternoon: Har Ki Pauri Ghat - Free, 1-2 hours
• Evening: Haridwar Market - Varies, 2-3 hours

Tuesday, November 14: Mansa Devi Temple and Chandi Devi Temple

Start your day by visiting Mansa Devi Temple, located on top of Bilwa Parvat. Enjoy the panoramic views of Haridwar from the cable car ride. In the afternoon, head to Chandi Devi Temple, situated atop Neel Parvat. Take the cable car or enjoy a trek to reach the temple. Wrap up your day with a serene evening walk in Rajaji National Park.

• Mansa Devi Temple - Cable car: INR 120 per person, 2-3 hours
• Chandi Devi Temple - Cable car: INR 120 per person, 2-3 hours
• Rajaji National Park - Entry fee: INR 150 per person, 2-3 hours

Wednesday, November 15: Explore Rishikesh

Today, travel to Rishikesh, the "Yoga Capital of the World." Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula suspension bridges. Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the riverside cafes. In the afternoon, experience the tranquility of the Parmarth Niketan Ashram and attend the evening Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat.

• Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula - Free, 2-3 hours
• Riverside cafes - Cost varies, 1-2 hours
• Parmarth Niketan Ashram - Free, 1-2 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat - Free, 1-2 hours

Thursday, November 16: Adventure in Rishikesh

Get your adrenaline pumping with thrilling adventures in Rishikesh. Start your day with a thrilling river rafting experience in the Ganges. Afterward, visit Jumpin Heights for bungee jumping and other adventure activities. In the evening, relax with a yoga or meditation session at one of the renowned ashrams.

• River Rafting - Cost varies, 3-4 hours
• Jumpin Heights - Cost varies, 2-3 hours
• Yoga or Meditation Session - Cost varies, 1-2 hours

Friday, November 17: Neer Garh Waterfall and Beatles Ashram

Embark on a nature-filled day trip. Start by visiting the Neer Garh Waterfall, a hidden gem surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pools. In the afternoon, explore the abandoned Beatles Ashram, where the famous band once practiced transcendental meditation. End the day with a peaceful sunset at the Triveni Ghat.

• Neer Garh Waterfall - Free, 3-4 hours
• Beatles Ashram - Entry fee: INR 600 per person, 2-3 hours
• Sunset at Triveni Ghat - Free, 1-2 hours

Saturday, November 18: Haridwar Wildlife Safari and Shopping

Embark on a thrilling wildlife safari in the nearby Rajaji National Park, known for its diverse flora and fauna. Spend the morning exploring the park's natural beauty. In the afternoon, head back to Haridwar for some family-friendly shopping at Moti Bazaar and Jwalapur Market. Don't forget to try the local street food!

• Wildlife Safari at Rajaji National Park - Cost varies, 4-5 hours
• Haridwar Shopping - Cost varies, 2-3 hours
• Local Street Food - Cost varies, 1-2 hours

Sunday, November 19: Departure

On your last day, bid farewell to the beautiful cities of Haridwar and Rishikesh. Take some time for relaxation before checking out from your hotel and departing for your onward journey.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, explore the Vashishta Gufa, a cave where renowned sage Vashishta meditated. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, located amidst the picturesque mountains. Locals also love practicing yoga at the Phool Chatti Ashram, surrounded by nature's tranquility.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.