7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary to Haridwar

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot near Haridwar is The Ganga Cafe, known for its delicious and filling breakfast options. The average cost for a meal at this cafe is about 150 INR per person.
• For lunch, head to Chotiwala Restaurant, a local favorite that offers a variety of traditional Indian dishes. The average cost for a meal here is around 250 INR per person.
• For dinner, try Haveli Hari Ganga, a beautiful riverside restaurant that serves mouthwatering Indian cuisine. The average cost for a meal at Haveli Hari Ganga is about 500 INR per person.

Tuesday, September 19:

Start your trip to Haridwar by exploring the sacred Har Ki Pauri ghat. In the morning, witness the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony, where devotees offer prayers to the holy river Ganges. Afternoon is the perfect time to visit Mansa Devi Temple, a revered Hindu shrine located on top of Bilwa Parvat hill. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the bustling streets of Haridwar and indulge in delicious street food.

• Har Ki Pauri Ghat: Experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. Estimated cost: Free. Time spent: 2 hours.
• Mansa Devi Temple: Seek blessings at this famous temple with panoramic views of Haridwar. Estimated cost: 50 INR per person (cable car ride). Time spent: 2-3 hours.

Wednesday, September 20:

Embark on an adventurous day by visiting Rajaji National Park. In the morning, take a thrilling jungle safari to spot diverse wildlife such as elephants, tigers, and leopards. Afternoon is the perfect time to enjoy a picnic amidst the natural beauty of the park. In the evening, head back to Haridwar and relax by the riverbank.

• Rajaji National Park: Explore the wilderness through a jungle safari. Estimated cost: 1,500 INR per jeep (up to 6 people). Time spent: 6-7 hours.

Thursday, September 21:

Visit the iconic Chandi Devi Temple on Neel Parvat hill. In the morning, take a cable car ride to reach the temple and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Afternoon is the perfect time to visit Shantikunj Ashram, a spiritual retreat known for its serene surroundings and yoga centers. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Chandi Ghat.

• Chandi Devi Temple: Seek blessings and enjoy panoramic views. Estimated cost: 120 INR per person (cable car ride). Time spent: 3-4 hours.
• Shantikunj Ashram: Experience spiritual tranquility and explore the ashram's facilities. Estimated cost: Free. Time spent: 2-3 hours.

Friday, September 22:

Explore the quaint town of Rishikesh, located near Haridwar. In the morning, visit the famous Beatles Ashram, where the band members once stayed and learned meditation. Afternoon is the perfect time to take a refreshing dip in the holy river Ganges at Triveni Ghat. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan ashram.

• Beatles Ashram: Discover the Beatles' connection to Rishikesh and explore the ashram. Estimated cost: 150 INR per person (entry fee). Time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Triveni Ghat: Take a holy dip in the Ganges and witness the evening Ganga Aarti. Estimated cost: Free. Time spent: 2-3 hours.

Saturday, September 23:

Visit the Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. In the morning, seek blessings at this ancient temple known for its architectural beauty. Afternoon is the perfect time to experience the thrill of river rafting in the Ganges. In the evening, explore the vibrant markets of Haridwar and indulge in shopping for local handicrafts.

• Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple: Seek blessings and admire the exquisite architecture. Estimated cost: Free. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
• River Rafting: Enjoy an adventurous rafting experience in the Ganges. Estimated cost: 1,000 INR per person. Time spent: 3-4 hours.

Sunday, September 24:

Visit the ancient Maya Devi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Maya. In the morning, explore the temple's rich history and architecture. Afternoon is the perfect time to take a cable car ride to the hilltop of Mansa Devi Temple and enjoy breathtaking views. In the evening, take a peaceful boat ride on the Ganges and witness the serene beauty of Haridwar.

• Maya Devi Temple: Discover the ancient temple and its significance. Estimated cost: Free. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Mansa Devi Temple: Enjoy panoramic views through a cable car ride. Estimated cost: 50 INR per person (cable car ride). Time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Boat Ride on the Ganges: Experience tranquility on a boat ride along the holy river. Estimated cost: 200 INR per person. Time spent: 1-2 hours.

Monday, September 25:

On the final day, visit the vibrant markets of Haridwar to shop for souvenirs and traditional items. In the morning, explore the bustling Moti Bazaar and Bada Bazaar. Afternoon is the perfect time to relax and rejuvenate at one of the ayurvedic wellness centers in Haridwar. In the evening, bid farewell to the serene city of Haridwar and cherish the memories made during your trip.

• Moti Bazaar and Bada Bazaar: Shop for souvenirs, clothes, and local handicrafts. Estimated cost: Varies based on purchases. Time spent: 3-4 hours.
• Ayurvedic Wellness Centers: Pamper yourself with rejuvenating ayurvedic treatments. Estimated cost: Varies based on services availed. Time spent: 2-3 hours.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While in Haridwar, don't miss the opportunity to visit Neer Gaddu Waterfall, a hidden gem located near Rishikesh. It offers a picturesque setting for a family picnic and a refreshing dip in the natural pools. Another local favorite is the Sapt Rishi Ashram, where seven great sages are believed to have meditated. This serene ashram is perfect for meditation and spiritual introspection amidst nature's tranquility.

For hotel and flight prices in Haridwar, you can check here.