Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary: Haridwar, Rishikesh, Mussoorie, Nainital

Thursday, December 14: Haridwar

Start your trip with the spiritual city of Haridwar. In the morning, visit Har Ki Pauri, the famous ghat on the banks of the Ganges River, where you can witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. Afternoon can be spent exploring the bustling markets and trying out local street food. In the evening, take a peaceful stroll along the riverbank, enjoying the serene atmosphere.

• Har Ki Pauri: Free entry, approx. 2 hours
• Local markets: Budget-friendly, approx. 2-3 hours
• Riverbank walk: Free, approx. 1 hour

Friday, December 15: Rishikesh

Head to Rishikesh, known as the Yoga Capital of the World. In the morning, attend a yoga or meditation session at one of the ashrams. Afternoon can be spent exploring the iconic Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula bridges, offering stunning views of the Ganges. In the evening, witness the Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

• Ashram activities: Varies per ashram, approx. 2-3 hours
• Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula: Free entry, approx. 1-2 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free, approx. 1 hour

Saturday, December 16: Mussoorie

Travel to the hill station of Mussoorie. In the morning, visit Kempty Falls and enjoy the natural beauty. Afternoon can be spent exploring the Mall Road, lined with shops and restaurants. In the evening, take a cable car ride to Gun Hill for panoramic views of the Himalayas.

• Kempty Falls: Entry fee approx. INR 50, approx. 2-3 hours
• Mall Road: Budget-friendly, approx. 2-3 hours
• Cable car ride to Gun Hill: Approx. INR 100, approx. 1 hour

Sunday, December 17: Mussoorie

Continue exploring Mussoorie. In the morning, visit the picturesque Company Garden and enjoy a leisurely walk. Afternoon can be spent exploring the scenic viewpoints like Lal Tibba and Cloud's End. In the evening, indulge in local cuisine at a popular restaurant.

• Company Garden: Entry fee approx. INR 20, approx. 2 hours
• Viewpoints: Free entry, approx. 2-3 hours
• Dinner at a local restaurant: Budget-friendly, approx. 1-2 hours

Monday, December 18: Nainital

Make your way to the enchanting hill town of Nainital. In the morning, take a boat ride on the serene Naini Lake. Afternoon can be spent exploring the famous Naina Devi Temple and shopping for local handicrafts. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful walk along the Mall Road.

• Boat ride on Naini Lake: Approx. INR 200, approx. 2 hours
• Naina Devi Temple: Free entry, approx. 1-2 hours
• Shopping on Mall Road: Budget-friendly, approx. 2-3 hours

Tuesday, December 19: Nainital

Continue your exploration of Nainital. In the morning, visit the scenic Snow View Point for breathtaking vistas. Afternoon can be spent exploring the Eco Cave Gardens, offering an adventurous experience. In the evening, savor a lakeside dinner at a popular restaurant.

• Snow View Point: Entry fee approx. INR 50, approx. 2 hours
• Eco Cave Gardens: Entry fee approx. INR 60, approx. 2-3 hours
• Dinner at a lakeside restaurant: Budget-friendly, approx. 1-2 hours

Wednesday, December 20: Departure

On your last day, bid farewell to the beautiful Uttarakhand region and head back home with fond memories.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a family-friendly adventure, consider visiting the Chandi Devi Temple in Haridwar, accessible via a cable car ride, offering scenic views. In Rishikesh, explore the Beatles Ashram, where the iconic band stayed during their spiritual journey. In Mussoorie, take a short hike to the beautiful Jharipani Falls. In Nainital, visit the Raj Bhawan, a colonial-era Governor's House with stunning architecture and gardens.

Check out hotel and flight prices for your trip here.