In the morning, start your day by visiting Har Ki Pauri, one of the most sacred ghats in Haridwar. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, a spiritual ceremony where devotees offer prayers to the holy river Ganges. Experience the soothing atmosphere and immerse yourself in the divine aura. Afterward, explore the nearby Mansa Devi Temple, located atop Bilwa Parvat. Take the cable car ride to reach the temple and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Har Ki Pauri: Free entry, approximately 2 hours
Mansa Devi Temple: Cable car ride costs around INR 150, approximately 2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Start your day at Cafe coffee day, a cosy cafe known for its delicious breakfast options. Enjoy a variety of dishes such as sandwiches, muffins, and refreshing beverages. The average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
Lunch: Indulge in a delectable lunch at Haveli Hari Ganga, a famous restaurant offering traditional Indian cuisine. Savor the flavors of authentic dishes like dal makhani, butter chicken, and biryani. The average cost for a meal is about INR 600 per person.
Dinner: Treat yourself to a memorable dinner experience at Hoshiyar Puri, a popular restaurant known for its mouthwatering North Indian and Chinese delicacies. Enjoy their signature dishes like paneer tikka, butter naan, and chilli chicken. The average cost for a meal is about INR 400 per person.
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its delicious vegetarian offerings. Enjoy a hearty Indian breakfast with options such as parathas and idlis. The average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
For lunch, visit Hoshiyar Puri, a local favorite for its authentic Punjabi cuisine. Indulge in flavorful curries, tandoori dishes, and freshly baked bread. The average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
For dinner, treat yourself to a memorable dining experience at the Ganga Lahari Restaurant. Located right on the banks of the holy river Ganges, this restaurant offers a serene ambiance and a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its delicious North Indian and South Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Hari Om Bhojnalaya, a popular vegetarian restaurant serving authentic Indian thalis with a variety of dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at Hoshiyar Puri, a renowned restaurant offering a range of mouthwatering Punjabi dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Pandit Ji Ki Pakodi. This popular restaurant specializes in crispy and flavorful pakodis, served with chutney and masala tea. The average cost for a meal here is about 100 INR per person.
For a scrumptious lunch, head to Hoshiyar Puri. Known for its authentic North Indian cuisine, this restaurant offers a variety of delicious puris with a range of mouthwatering curries. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at The Sitting Elephant. This rooftop restaurant offers a stunning view of the Ganges river along with a diverse menu featuring Indian and Continental dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 INR per person.
Restaurants
Head to Lakshmi Chai Stall for a delicious breakfast of hot chai and mouthwatering parathas. The average cost for a meal is about 50 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit Hoshiyar Puri, a popular restaurant known for its crispy and flavorful puri sabzi. The average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
Indulge in a scrumptious dinner at Big Ben Restaurant, offering a wide range of Indian and continental dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious Indian breakfast at Mathura Wale. This popular restaurant serves authentic North Indian dishes such as puri sabzi, samosa, and jalebi. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Hoshiyarpuri. Indulge in a variety of Punjabi delicacies like chole bhature, dal makhani, and butter naan. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit The Garden Restaurant. Located by the Ganges, this restaurant offers a serene atmosphere and a wide range of dishes including Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
In the afternoon, make your way to Chandi Devi Temple, situated atop the Neel Parvat hill. Either trek up the hill or take the ropeway to reach the temple. Experience the tranquility of the surroundings and take in breathtaking views of Haridwar from the hilltop. Afterward, visit the Bharat Mata Mandir, a unique temple dedicated to Mother India. Marvel at the detailed map of India sculpted in marble.
Chandi Devi Temple: Ropeway costs around INR 100, approximately 3 hours
Bharat Mata Mandir: Free entry, approximately 1 hour
In the evening, explore the vibrant markets of Haridwar. Visit Moti Bazaar and Bara Bazaar, where you can shop for religious souvenirs, brass idols, and colorful fabrics. Indulge in delicious street food like aloo puri, kachori, and jalebi. Immerse yourself in the local culture and witness the evening aarti at various smaller ghats along the river.
Moti Bazaar and Bara Bazaar: Cost depends on personal shopping, approximately 2 hours
Local Ghats: Free entry, approximately 1 hour
Day 2: Tuesday, October 17
Start your second day by visiting the famous Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Explore the intricate carvings and sculptures depicting mythological stories. Afterward, head to the Rajaji National Park, located on the foothills of the Shivalik range. Embark on a jungle safari to encounter diverse wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and leopards.
Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple: Free entry, approximately 1 hour
Rajaji National Park: Safari costs around INR 1,000, approximately 4 hours
In the afternoon, visit the Maya Devi Temple, one of the Shakti Peethas in Haridwar. Seek blessings from Goddess Maya and explore the historical significance of the temple. Afterward, take a relaxing boat ride on the Ganges and witness the beauty of the river and its surroundings.
Maya Devi Temple: Free entry, approximately 1 hour
Boat Ride: Costs around INR 200, approximately 2 hours
In the evening, attend the Ganga Aarti at the nearby Parmarth Niketan Ashram. Witness the enchanting ceremony as the river Ganges is worshipped with devotional songs and Vedic chants. Feel the spiritual energy and embrace the serenity of the surroundings.
Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free entry, approximately 2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Haridwar, don't miss out on visiting the tranquil Sapt Rishi Ashram, where the Ganges splits into seven streams. This serene location is perfect for meditation and introspection. Another hidden gem is the Shanti Kunj Ashram, known for its spiritual teachings and beautiful gardens. Experience the peaceful ambiance and attend the daily spiritual discourse.