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Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Kedarnath 7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary

Monday, September 11: Arrive in Rishikesh

Start your trip by arriving in Rishikesh, the "Yoga Capital of the World." In the morning, explore the famous Laxman Jhula, a suspension bridge spanning the Ganges River. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and visit the nearby temples. In the afternoon, take a peaceful boat ride on the Ganges and witness the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan. End the day with a delicious vegetarian dinner at one of the local ashrams.

  • Laxman Jhula: Free, 2 hours
  • Boat Ride on the Ganges: INR 500 ($7), 1 hour
  • Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan: Free, 1 hour
Tuesday, September 12: Explore Rishikesh

Start your day with a refreshing yoga session at one of the renowned yoga centers in Rishikesh. After breakfast, visit the Beatles Ashram, where the famous band stayed in the late 1960s. Explore the graffiti-covered buildings and soak in the artistic atmosphere. In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling whitewater rafting adventure on the Ganges. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and the adrenaline rush. Wrap up the day with a visit to the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, located amidst lush greenery.

  • Yoga Session: INR 500 ($7), 1.5 hours
  • Beatles Ashram: INR 150 ($2), 2 hours
  • Whitewater Rafting: INR 1,500 ($21), 3 hours
  • Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: Free, 1 hour
Wednesday, September 13: Journey to Haridwar

Leave Rishikesh and travel to the holy city of Haridwar. In the morning, visit Har Ki Pauri, the famous ghat on the banks of the Ganges. Take a dip in the holy river and witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. Afterward, explore the bustling markets of Haridwar, known for their religious trinkets and Ayurvedic products. In the evening, enjoy a serene walk along the Chandi Devi Temple trail and catch a cable car to the temple for panoramic views.

  • Har Ki Pauri: Free, 2 hours
  • Exploring Haridwar Markets: Cost varies, 2 hours
  • Chandi Devi Temple: INR 360 ($5), 3 hours
Thursday, September 14: Visit Mansa Devi and Depart for Kedarnath

Start your day by visiting the Mansa Devi Temple, located on a hilltop overlooking Haridwar. Take the scenic cable car ride to reach the temple and seek blessings. In the afternoon, depart for Kedarnath, one of the holiest pilgrimages in Hinduism. Reach Sonprayag and continue the journey by foot or hire a pony or palanquin. As you trek, enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Stay overnight in Kedarnath.

  • Mansa Devi Temple: INR 100 ($1.40), 2 hours
  • Transportation to Sonprayag: INR 500 ($7)
  • Pony/Palanquin to Kedarnath: INR 3,000-4,000 ($42-$56), duration varies
  • Accommodation in Kedarnath: Prices vary
Friday, September 15: Explore Kedarnath

Wake up surrounded by the majestic Himalayas and visit the revered Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Spend the day exploring the temple complex, marveling at the stunning architecture and soaking in the spiritual ambiance. Take a walk around the town, interact with fellow pilgrims, and enjoy the serene mountain scenery. In the evening, attend the evening aarti ceremony at the temple.

  • Kedarnath Temple: Free, 4 hours
  • Exploring Kedarnath Town: Free, 2 hours
Saturday, September 16: Return to Haridwar

Begin your journey back to Haridwar from Kedarnath. Descend to Sonprayag and continue the journey by road. Upon reaching Haridwar, spend the afternoon exploring the Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple, known for its unique architecture. Enjoy a leisurely evening stroll along the banks of the Ganges and savor the local street food.

  • Transportation from Kedarnath to Haridwar: INR 500 ($7)
  • Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple: Free, 1 hour
  • Exploring Haridwar Markets: Cost varies, 2 hours
Sunday, September 17: Depart from Haridwar

Before departing from Haridwar, visit the Bharat Mata Mandir, a unique temple dedicated to Mother India. Explore the temple's eight floors, each representing different aspects of India's culture and heritage. Reflect on your spiritual journey as you bid farewell to Haridwar and head back home.

  • Bharat Mata Mandir: Free, 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Rishikesh, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Vashishta Cave. This secluded cave is known for its peaceful atmosphere and is believed to be the spot where the ancient sage Vashishta meditated. Another hidden gem in Haridwar is the Sapt Rishi Ashram, located on the banks of the Ganges. This tranquil ashram offers a serene environment for meditation and spiritual practices, away from the bustling crowds.

Check hotel and flight prices for your trip here.

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