3-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Haridwar

Day 1: Monday, August 21, 2023 - Exploring Haridwar's Spiritual Side

Morning: Start your day with a visit to Har Ki Pauri, the most sacred ghat of Haridwar. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, where devotees light lamps and offer prayers to the holy River Ganges. Take a dip in the river to cleanse your soul.

Afternoon: Head to Mansa Devi Temple, situated atop the Bilwa Parvat Hill. Reach the temple by either trekking or taking the cable car for stunning views of the city. Seek blessings from the goddess and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Evening: Visit the Chandi Devi Temple, located on the Neel Parvat Hill. Take a cable car ride to reach the temple and admire the panoramic vistas. Witness the serene sunset and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.

• Har Ki Pauri: Free, 2-3 hours
• Mansa Devi Temple: Cable car costs around INR 200 per person, 2-3 hours
• Chandi Devi Temple: Cable car costs around INR 200 per person, 2-3 hours

Day 2: Tuesday, August 22, 2023 - Wildlife and Nature Exploration

Morning: Embark on an exciting adventure to Rajaji National Park, about 18 km from Haridwar. Take a safari ride through the park to spot diverse wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and numerous bird species. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

Afternoon: Visit the Bharat Mata Mandir, a unique temple dedicated to Mother India. Explore the eight floors, each representing a different aspect of Indian history, culture, and mythology. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the temple's top floor.

Evening: Indulge in a peaceful boat ride on the Ganges River. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri once again, this time from the river. Experience the tranquil ambiance and the flickering lamps reflecting on the holy water.

• Rajaji National Park: Safari costs around INR 1,500 per person, 4-5 hours
• Bharat Mata Mandir: Free, 1-2 hours
• Boat Ride: INR 200-300 per person, 1-2 hours

Day 3: Wednesday, August 23, 2023 - Cultural Exploration and Shopping

Morning: Explore the captivating temples of Haridwar, starting with Maya Devi Temple. This ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Maya is believed to be one of the Siddh Peethas. Absorb the spiritual energy and delve into the mythology.

Afternoon: Visit the Shantikunj Ashram, a renowned spiritual center. Learn about the principles of the Gayatri Pariwar, a global cultural and spiritual movement. Participate in meditation sessions and gain insights into Indian spirituality.

Evening: Take a stroll through the bustling streets of Haridwar and explore the local markets. Shop for religious artifacts, colorful handicrafts, and traditional attire. Don't miss trying the delicious street food, especially the famous Haridwar's Aloo Poori.

• Maya Devi Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
• Shantikunj Ashram: Free, 2-3 hours
• Shopping and Street Food: Budget around INR 500-1000, 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• If you're looking for a delicious breakfast spot, head to Chotiwala Restaurant. They offer a wide variety of Indian breakfast dishes like parathas and idlis. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 150 per person.
• Lunchtime calls for a visit to Hoshiyar Puri. This restaurant is known for its mouthwatering Punjabi cuisine, particularly their butter chicken and naan. Expect to spend around INR 250 per person for a satisfying lunch.
• For dinner, make your way to Big Ben Restaurant. This multi-cuisine restaurant serves Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 400 per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar, a bird sanctuary located near Haridwar. Witness a wide variety of migratory birds during the winter months. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers, bird enthusiasts, and a great educational outing for families.