Thursday, September 28, 2023: Arrival in Rishikesh
Start your trip by arriving in Rishikesh, the gateway to the Himalayas. In the morning, visit the iconic Laxman Jhula and explore the bustling market nearby. In the afternoon, take a dip in the holy Ganges River and witness the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan Ashram. Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the local restaurants.
Laxman Jhula: Free, 2 hours
Ganges River: Free, 1 hour
Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its delicious Indian breakfast dishes like Poori Bhaji and Aloo Paratha. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
If you're looking for a place to have lunch, try the Little Buddha Cafe which offers a variety of cuisines including Indian, Tibetan, and Continental. Don't miss their mouthwatering momos! The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, visit the Pure Soul Restaurant. Indulge in their authentic North Indian dishes like Butter Chicken and Dal Makhani. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Friday, September 29, 2023: Joshimath
Embark on a scenic drive to Joshimath, a charming town nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas. In the morning, visit the ancient Narsingh Temple and soak in the spiritual atmosphere. After lunch, take a cable car ride to Auli, a popular skiing destination, and enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains. Return to Joshimath for dinner.
Narsingh Temple: Free, 1 hour
Auli Cable Car Ride: INR 750 (estimated cost), 3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Nirvana, a cozy café known for its delicious pancakes and fresh fruit smoothies. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about ₹300 per person.
If you're looking for a delicious lunch, try The Cliffhanger Restaurant. They offer a wide variety of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. The average cost for a lunch meal is about ₹500 per person.
In the evening, visit the Gardenia Restaurant for a delightful dinner experience. This restaurant specializes in North Indian cuisine and offers a pleasant outdoor seating area. The average cost for a dinner meal is about ₹800 per person.
Saturday, September 30, 2023: Govindghat
Continue your journey to Govindghat, the starting point for the trek to Hemkund Sahib and Valley of Flowers. In the morning, begin the trek and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Himalayan flora. After a picnic lunch amidst nature, return to Govindghat and rest for the evening.
Trek to Hemkund Sahib and Valley of Flowers: Free, 6-8 hours
Sunday, October 1, 2023: Hemkund Sahib
Today, embark on a trek to Hemkund Sahib, a revered Sikh pilgrimage site situated at an altitude of 4,632 meters. Witness the breathtaking beauty of the Hemkund Lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. After a spiritual experience, trek back to Govindghat and relax for the evening.
Trek to Hemkund Sahib: Free, 6-8 hours
Monday, October 2, 2023: Valley of Flowers
Explore the enchanting Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diverse alpine flora. Spend the day hiking through the picturesque meadows and capturing the vibrant colors of the blooming flowers. Return to Govindghat in the evening and savor a local dinner.
Valley of Flowers: INR 150 (estimated entry fee), 6-8 hours
Tuesday, October 3, 2023: Mana Village
Visit Mana Village, the last inhabited village on the Indo-Tibetan border. In the morning, explore the village's unique culture and traditions. Marvel at the stunning views from the Vasudhara Falls during an afternoon hike. Return to Govindghat and enjoy a delicious dinner.
Mana Village: Free, 2 hours
Vasudhara Falls Hike: Free, 4 hours
Wednesday, October 4, 2023: Return to Rishikesh
Conclude your trip by returning to Rishikesh. In the morning, visit the iconic Beatles Ashram, where the famous band stayed in the late 1960s. Enjoy a leisurely lunch by the river and indulge in some last-minute souvenir shopping. In the evening, witness the serene beauty of the Triveni Ghat during the Ganga Aarti ceremony.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Sitting Elephant Cafe. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast options including delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to Chotiwala Restaurant which is known for its authentic Indian cuisine. Try their mouth-watering thali that includes a selection of curries, rice, and bread. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at Little Buddha Cafe. This rooftop restaurant offers a serene ambiance and serves a fusion of Indian and international dishes. Don't miss their delicious wood-fired pizzas. Average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Rishikesh, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, situated amidst picturesque surroundings, and experience the peace and tranquility it offers. Additionally, you can take a refreshing dip in the Neer Garh Waterfall, a hidden gem known for its pristine beauty and serene atmosphere.