In the morning, start your journey from Pune to Haridwar by taking a flight. Once you arrive in Haridwar, visit the Har Ki Pauri ghat and witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti in the evening. Spend the rest of the evening exploring the local market and indulging in some delicious street food.
Visit Har Ki Pauri Ghat: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Explore Local Market: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Haridwar is Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its delicious vegetarian breakfast options. The average cost for a breakfast meal here is about Rs. 150 per person.
If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, head to Hoshiyar Puri. This restaurant offers a variety of North Indian dishes, including their famous puri sabzi. You can expect to spend around Rs. 200 per person for a lunch meal here.
For a delightful dinner experience, visit Big Ben Restaurant. This multi-cuisine restaurant offers a diverse menu with options ranging from Indian to Chinese. The average cost for a dinner meal at Big Ben is about Rs. 500 per person.
Monday, September 11: Haridwar to Rishikesh
In the morning, take a short drive to Rishikesh. Start your day by visiting the iconic Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula, two suspension bridges offering scenic views of the Ganges River. Afterward, visit the Beatles Ashram, which became famous after the Beatles stayed here in the 1960s. In the evening, enjoy a mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.
Drive from Haridwar to Rishikesh: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Enjoy Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Rishikesh is Chotiwala, known for its delicious Indian breakfast options like Puri Bhaji and Aloo Paratha. The average cost for a meal here is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Bistro Nirvana, a cozy rooftop restaurant offering a variety of cuisines including Indian, Italian, and Continental. Don't miss their wood-fired pizzas! The average cost for a meal here is about 400 INR per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at the famous Chote Lal Restaurant, known for its authentic North Indian cuisine. Their Butter Chicken and Dal Makhani are highly recommended. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 INR per person.
Tuesday, September 12: Rishikesh
Spend the morning experiencing the thrill of river rafting in the Ganges River. Afterward, head to the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, located amidst the picturesque mountains. In the evening, take a peaceful stroll along the Triveni Ghat and witness the grand Ganga Aarti.
Go River Rafting: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Embark on a scenic drive to Uttarkashi, a town situated on the banks of the Bhagirathi River. Visit the famous Vishwanath Temple and enjoy the serene ambiance. In the afternoon, explore the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering Museum, showcasing the rich mountaineering history of the region. Spend the evening exploring the local markets and trying out some local delicacies.
Drive from Rishikesh to Uttarkashi: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 4-5 hours
Explore Nehru Institute of Mountaineering Museum: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Explore Local Markets: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Thursday, September 14: Uttarkashi to Guptkashi
Start your day with a picturesque drive to Guptkashi, a town located on the way to Kedarnath. Visit the ancient Vishwanath Temple in Guptkashi and seek blessings. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Manikarnik Kund, a natural hot water spring believed to have medicinal properties. Spend the evening relaxing and enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
Drive from Uttarkashi to Guptkashi: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 6-7 hours
Embark on a challenging trek to Kedarnath, one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites dedicated to Lord Shiva. After reaching Kedarnath, visit the Kedarnath Temple, located at an altitude of 11,755 feet. Take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Spend the evening exploring the tranquil beauty of Kedarnath.
Trek from Guptkashi to Kedarnath: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 6-7 hours
Start your descent from Kedarnath and make your way back to Haridwar. Once you reach Haridwar, take a dip in the holy Ganges at Har Ki Pauri ghat. Spend the rest of the evening exploring the local markets and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Haridwar.
Trek from Kedarnath to Guptkashi: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 6-7 hours
Take a dip in the Ganges at Har Ki Pauri ghat: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Explore Local Markets: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While on this journey, don't miss out on visiting the beautiful Chandrabadni Temple near Tehri, which offers panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. Another hidden gem is the small village of Chopta, known as the "Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand," offering breathtaking views and great trekking opportunities.