Discover the Spiritual Essence of Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Delhi

Friday, August 11: Arrival in Haridwar

Start your spiritual journey in Haridwar, a sacred city in Uttarakhand. In the morning, visit Har Ki Pauri, the most famous ghat on the banks of the Ganges. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, a ritual prayer ceremony, as the sun sets. During the afternoon, explore the bustling markets of Haridwar and try local street food. In the evening, you can take a dip in the holy waters of the Ganges to cleanse your soul.

• Har Ki Pauri: Free, 2-3 hours
• Local Markets: Budget-friendly, 2-3 hours
• Ganga Aarti: Free, 1 hour

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Chotiwala, a popular restaurant in Haridwar. Indulge in traditional Indian dishes like aloo paratha and masala chai. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, head to Hoshiyar Puri, a local eatery known for its mouth-watering thalis. Enjoy a variety of vegetarian dishes like dal, sabzi, and roti. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• End your day with a flavorful dinner at Mathura Walo Ki Pracheen Dhaba, known for its authentic North Indian cuisine. Try their famous butter chicken or paneer tikka masala. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.

Saturday, August 12: Explore Rishikesh

Embark on a short journey to Rishikesh, the Yoga capital of the world. Start your day with a serene yoga session in one of the ashrams. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula suspension bridges that span the Ganges. Take a boat ride on the river and witness the unity of nature and spirituality. In the evening, attend a mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

• Ashram Yoga Session: Affordable, 2-3 hours
• Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula: Free, 1-2 hours
• Ganga Boat Ride: Budget-friendly, 1-2 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free, 1 hour

Restaurants

• Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its traditional Indian dishes and cozy ambiance. An average meal costs around 150 INR per person.
• For a fulfilling lunch, head to The Sitting Elephant, a vegetarian restaurant offering a variety of healthy options. Enjoy their thali meals with an average cost of 250 INR per person.
• Indulge in a delightful dinner at The Amaya Restaurant, where you can savor Indian and international flavors along with a stunning view of the Ganges River. The average cost for a meal here is around 500 INR per person.

Sunday, August 13: Spiritual Retreat in Rishikesh

Continue your spiritual journey in Rishikesh with a visit to the tranquil Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, located amidst picturesque surroundings. Spend the afternoon exploring the Beatles Ashram, where the famous band once meditated. In the evening, indulge in an Ayurvedic massage or attend a meditation session at one of the many wellness centers in Rishikesh.

• Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
• Beatles Ashram: Entry fee, 2-3 hours
• Ayurvedic Massage or Meditation Session: Varies, 1-2 hours

Monday, August 14: Travel to Delhi

Leave the serene surroundings of Rishikesh and travel to the bustling capital city of India, Delhi. Start your day with a visit to the majestic Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk, a vibrant market known for its delicious street food. Spend the afternoon visiting the iconic India Gate and the grand Humayun's Tomb. In the evening, witness the vibrant culture and nightlife of Delhi in Connaught Place.

• Red Fort: Entry fee, 2-3 hours
• Chandni Chowk: Budget-friendly, 2-3 hours
• India Gate: Free, 1-2 hours
• Humayun's Tomb: Entry fee, 1-2 hours
• Connaught Place: Budget-friendly, 2-3 hours

Tuesday, August 15: Exploring Delhi's Heritage

On India's Independence Day, immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Delhi. Start your day by visiting the magnificent Jama Masjid, one of India's largest mosques. Experience the serenity of the Lotus Temple, known for its beautiful architecture. Spend the afternoon exploring the National Museum, showcasing India's art and history. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll in the lush gardens of Lodhi Gardens.

• Jama Masjid: Free, 2-3 hours
• Lotus Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
• National Museum: Entry fee, 2-3 hours
• Lodhi Gardens: Free, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Haridwar, don't miss a visit to the ancient Maya Devi Temple, dedicated to the goddess Shakti. In Rishikesh, take a short hike to the serene Neer Garh Waterfall for a refreshing dip. In Delhi, explore the vibrant and artistic Hauz Khas Village, known for its trendy cafes, boutiques, and art galleries. These hidden gems offer a glimpse into the local culture and are beloved by the residents.

For hotel and flight prices, check out Kayak.