Start your trip to Haridwar by arriving at Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun and taking a taxi to your hotel. Check the prices of hotels and flights here. In the evening, head to Har Ki Pauri, the famous ghat on the banks of the Ganges River, to witness the spectacular Ganga Aarti ceremony. Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere as priests perform rituals accompanied by chants and the lighting of oil lamps. Estimated cost: Taxi fare from the airport, hotel prices. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
Start your morning by visiting the Mansa Devi Temple, situated atop the Bilwa Parvat hill. You can reach the temple by a cable car ride, offering panoramic views of Haridwar. Seek the blessings of the goddess Mansa Devi, known as the wish-fulfilling deity. In the afternoon, take a scenic trek or a cable car ride to the Chandi Devi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Chandi. Enjoy the serene surroundings and take in the breathtaking views of Haridwar. Estimated cost: Cable car ride, temple offerings. Estimated time spent: 4-5 hours.
Spend your morning exploring the bustling markets of Haridwar, such as the Moti Bazaar and Bara Bazaar. Indulge in shopping for traditional handicrafts, jewelry, and spiritual items. In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling wildlife adventure by visiting Rajaji National Park. Take a jeep safari through the park, home to diverse flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, and leopards. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the park and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. Estimated cost: Shopping expenses, safari charges. Estimated time spent: 6-7 hours.
Start your day by visiting the Daksha Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Explore the beautiful architecture and learn about the mythological significance of this ancient temple. In the afternoon, visit Sapt Rishi Ashram, located on the banks of the Ganges River. This peaceful ashram is an ideal spot for meditation and spiritual rejuvenation. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and learn from the resident sages about the teachings of spirituality. Estimated cost: Temple offerings, donation at the ashram. Estimated time spent: 4-5 hours.
Begin your final day in Haridwar by visiting Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar, a bird sanctuary situated along the Ganges River. Explore the rich avian diversity and get a chance to spot migratory birds. In the afternoon, head to Gau Ghat, a sacred site where the Ganges River is believed to have split into seven streams. Take a dip in the holy waters and experience the spiritual cleansing. Spend your evening attending another mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Har Ki Pauri. Estimated cost: Taxi fare, temple offerings. Estimated time spent: 5-6 hours.
While exploring Haridwar, make sure to visit the lesser-known gems and places loved by locals. One such hidden gem is the Bhimgoda Tank, a sacred water tank associated with the Pandavas from the epic Mahabharata. It offers a serene and peaceful environment away from the crowds. Another local favorite is the Maya Devi Temple, one of the Siddha Peethas and believed to be the birthplace of Goddess Sati. Take a walk along the narrow lanes of Haridwar's old town, known as Har Ki Pauri Bazaar, to experience the local culture and indulge in street food delights.