Exploring Haridwar Rishikesh: A Family-Friendly 5-Day Itinerary
Sunday, October 1: Arrival in Haridwar
Welcome to Haridwar! Start your trip by visiting Har Ki Pauri. In the morning, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, a spiritual ceremony on the banks of the Ganges River. Afterward, explore the bustling streets of Haridwar and indulge in some local street food. In the afternoon, take a cable car ride to the top of Mansa Devi Temple for panoramic views of the city. End the day with a peaceful boat ride on the Ganges during sunset.
Har Ki Pauri: Free, 2 hours
Mansa Devi Temple: INR 100 per person (cable car), 2 hours
Ganges Boat Ride: INR 500 per boat (approx.), 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Chotiwala Restaurant, a popular local eatery known for its delicious vegetarian breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try The Sitting Elephant, a family-friendly restaurant offering a variety of Indian and continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Hoshiyar Puri, a well-known restaurant known for its authentic North Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Monday, October 2: Explore Rishikesh
Today, embark on a full-day trip to Rishikesh, the Yoga Capital of the World. Start your morning by visiting the iconic Laxman Jhula, a suspension bridge over the Ganges offering stunning views. Afterward, head to the Beatles Ashram, where the famous band once meditated. In the afternoon, experience the thrill of white water rafting in the Ganges. In the evening, attend a yoga or meditation session in one of Rishikesh's renowned ashrams.
Laxman Jhula: Free, 2 hours
Beatles Ashram: INR 150 per person, 2 hours
White Water Rafting: INR 1,000 per person (approx.), 3 hours
Yoga/Meditation Session: Free or optional donation, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Aqua Marine Café: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Aqua Marine Café, located near Laxman Jhula. This cozy café offers a variety of freshly brewed coffee, smoothies, and healthy breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
The Sitting Elephant: For lunch, head to The Sitting Elephant, a popular vegetarian restaurant in Rishikesh. They serve a wide range of Indian and international dishes, including delicious thalis, salads, and wraps. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.The Pyramid Café: Enjoy a delightful dinner at The Pyramid Café, situated near the Beatles Ashram. This rooftop restaurant offers a serene ambiance and serves a mix of Indian, Mediterranean, and continental cuisine. Don't miss their wood-fired pizzas and exotic cocktails. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Tuesday, October 3: Haridwar Temples and Wildlife
Start your day by visiting the popular Chandi Devi Temple, situated atop Neel Parvat. Enjoy the scenic cable car ride to the temple and take in the panoramic views. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Rajaji National Park, known for its diverse wildlife. Take a safari through the park and spot elephants, tigers, deer, and various bird species. End the day with a serene evening walk along the banks of the Ganges.
Chandi Devi Temple: INR 300 per person (cable car included), 2 hours
Rajaji National Park: INR 500 per person (approx.), 4-5 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Haridwar is Pawan Dosa Corner, known for its delicious South Indian dosas and idlis. The average cost for a meal here is about 100 rupees per person.
For lunch, head to Chotiwala Restaurant, a well-known establishment in Haridwar. This restaurant offers a wide variety of vegetarian dishes, including North Indian and Chinese cuisine. The average cost for a meal here is about 300 rupees per person.
In the evening, dine at Hoshiyarpuri, a popular dinner spot in Haridwar. This restaurant specializes in Punjabi cuisine and is known for its mouthwatering kebabs and curries. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 rupees per person.
Wednesday, October 4: Haridwar Cultural Experience
Immerse yourself in the cultural charm of Haridwar today. Start your morning by visiting the Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple, one of the oldest and most revered temples in Haridwar. Explore the nearby markets for souvenirs and traditional handicrafts. In the afternoon, attend a mesmerizing Bharat Natyam dance performance at the Haridwar Dance Festival. Enjoy an evening stroll along the vibrant Haridwar Market, known for its spiritual items and street food.
Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple: Free, 2 hours
Shopping in Haridwar Market: Cost varies, 2 hours
Haridwar Dance Festival: Free admission, check schedule for timings
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its wide variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Hoshiyar Puri, a popular local eatery known for its crispy and flavorful puris served with a variety of vegetarian curries. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at The Sitting Elephant, a rooftop restaurant offering stunning views of the Ganges River. Enjoy a diverse menu of Indian and international cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Thursday, October 5: Explore Ashrams and Ganges Bathing
On your final day, explore the ashrams of Haridwar and partake in a traditional Ganges bathing ritual. Begin by visiting the renowned Parmarth Niketan Ashram, known for its spiritual ambiance and evening Ganga Aarti. Experience a soul-cleansing dip in the holy Ganges and seek blessings at Haridwar's various bathing ghats. Spend the afternoon visiting other ashrams, such as Sapt Rishi Ashram and Bharat Mata Mandir, to gain further insights into Hindu spirituality.
Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free, 2 hours
Ganges Bathing Ritual: Free, duration varies
Sapt Rishi Ashram: Free, 1-2 hours
Bharat Mata Mandir: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Chhote Lal Poori Wale, a local favorite known for its delicious and crispy pooris served with aloo sabzi. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, try Hoshiyarpuri Restaurant, which offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian Punjabi dishes. Don't miss their butter chicken and fresh naans. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Big Ben Restaurant, a multi-cuisine eatery known for its rooftop seating and stunning views of the city. Taste their Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes, and enjoy a cozy ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Haridwar Rishikesh, don't miss the opportunity to visit Neer Garh Waterfall, a hidden gem near Rishikesh. This waterfall offers a serene and picturesque setting, perfect for a family picnic. Another local favorite is the evening Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat in Rishikesh, which showcases a harmonious blend of spirituality and cultural performances. Both of these experiences provide a unique glimpse into the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region.