Begin your trip by exploring the holy city of Haridvar, known for its religious significance. Start your morning with a visit to Har Ki Pauri, a famous ghat on the banks of the Ganges River. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, where devotees offer prayers and light oil lamps. In the afternoon, visit Mansa Devi Temple, accessible via a cable car ride that offers panoramic views of the city. Spend your evening exploring the vibrant markets of Haridvar, where you can shop for religious artifacts, handicrafts, and traditional garments.
Har Ki Pauri: Free, 2 hours
Mansa Devi Temple: INR 200 (cable car ride), 2 hours
Local Markets: Cost varies, 2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Chotiwala - Enjoy a hearty Indian breakfast at Chotiwala, known for its delicious vegetarian dishes such as aloo paratha and masala dosa. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Lunch: Hoshiyar Puri - Treat yourself to a traditional North Indian lunch at Hoshiyar Puri. Indulge in their famous thali, which includes an assortment of curries, rice, roti, and desserts. The average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Dinner: Invitation Restaurant - Savor the flavors of Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisine at Invitation Restaurant. Their extensive menu offers a variety of dishes to cater to all taste preferences. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Sunday, August 13: Rishikesh - Day 1
Embark on a spiritual journey to Rishikesh, also known as the Yoga Capital of the World. Start your morning with a visit to the iconic Lakshman Jhula, a suspension bridge over the Ganges River. Explore the ashrams and temples nearby, including the Parmarth Niketan Ashram, where you can participate in yoga and meditation sessions. In the afternoon, head to the Beatles Ashram, where the famous band once stayed and meditated. Enjoy the serene surroundings and nature trails. As the evening approaches, witness the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, a beautiful ceremony that takes place every evening.
Lakshman Jhula: Free, 2 hours
Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Donations, 3 hours
Beatles Ashram: INR 150, 2 hours
Triveni Ghat: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Rishikesh is the Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its delicious Indian breakfast items such as poha and paratha. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹200 per person.
If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, try the Oasis Restaurant, which offers a wide variety of vegetarian dishes including Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, head to the Little Buddha Cafe, a cozy restaurant with a rooftop seating area overlooking the Ganges River. They specialize in Tibetan and continental cuisine, and their average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Monday, August 14: Rishikesh - Day 2
Continue your exploration of Rishikesh's spiritual and adventurous offerings. Start your morning by attending a yoga class at one of the many renowned yoga centers in the city. Afterward, head to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, located amidst the lush greenery of the mountains. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. In the afternoon, indulge in some river rafting on the Ganges or opt for a peaceful riverside picnic. As the day comes to an end, visit the Rishikesh market to shop for spiritual books, clothing, and handicrafts.
Yoga Class: Cost varies, 2 hours
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: Free, 3 hours
River Rafting: INR 1,500 per person, 2 hours
Rishikesh Market: Cost varies, 2 hours
Restaurants
The Sitting Elephant: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Sitting Elephant, known for its delicious and wholesome vegetarian dishes. Their menu includes a variety of options like pancakes, omelettes, and traditional Indian breakfast items. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
The Pyramid Cafe: For lunch, head to The Pyramid Cafe, a cozy rooftop restaurant offering a range of international cuisines with a focus on organic and healthy ingredients. Their menu features salads, sandwiches, pasta, and Mexican dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
The Sitting Elephant: For dinner, return to The Sitting Elephant, which transforms into a candlelit restaurant in the evenings. Indulge in their authentic Indian dishes like curries, biryanis, and tandoori specialties. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Haridvar and Rishikesh, make sure to venture off the beaten path and discover some hidden gems. If your family enjoys nature, visit the Neer Garh Waterfall near Rishikesh, where you can take a refreshing dip in the natural pools. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, try bungee jumping at Jumpin Heights in Rishikesh. Additionally, don't miss out on trying the local delicacies like Aloo Puri and Kachori at street food stalls in Haridvar. These offbeat attractions and experiences will add a unique touch to your family-friendly journey.