Family-Friendly 3-Day Itinerary in Haridwar

Saturday, August 26: Ganga Aarti and Har Ki Pauri

Start your trip by attending the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Har Ki Pauri. This spiritual ritual takes place every evening as devotees gather on the banks of the holy River Ganges to offer prayers and witness the enchanting lamps floating on the water. In the morning, visit Har Ki Pauri to take a holy dip in the Ganges and witness the morning aarti. Afternoon can be spent exploring the local markets and trying street food. In the evening, enjoy a boat ride on the Ganges while admiring the beautiful ghats.

• Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri: Free, Evening
• Har Ki Pauri Ghat: Free, Morning
• Local Markets and Street Food: Budget-friendly, Afternoon
• Boat Ride on the Ganges: INR 100-200 per person, Evening

Restaurants

• Try the famous Chotiwala restaurant for breakfast, known for its delicious Indian breakfast options like parathas and idlis. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 150 per person.
• Enjoy a traditional lunch at Hoshiyarpuri, which offers a variety of Punjabi dishes including thalis and kebabs. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
• For dinner, head to the Ganga Lahari restaurant, situated on the banks of the Ganges, offering a serene dining experience along with a range of Indian and Chinese cuisines. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.

Sunday, August 27: Mansa Devi Temple and Chandi Devi Temple

On the second day, start your morning by visiting the Mansa Devi Temple, located on a hilltop. You can reach the temple by cable car, offering panoramic views of the city. Afterward, head to Chandi Devi Temple, another popular pilgrimage site accessible by a cable car ride. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Rajaji National Park, where you can go for a wildlife safari and spot various animals and birds.

• Mansa Devi Temple: INR 100 per cable car, Morning
• Chandi Devi Temple: INR 100 per cable car, Afternoon
• Rajaji National Park: INR 250 per person for safari, Afternoon

Monday, August 28: Rishikesh and Adventure Activities

Spend your last day exploring the neighboring city of Rishikesh, known as the "Yoga Capital of the World." Start your morning with a visit to the iconic Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula, suspension bridges over the Ganges. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and visit the numerous ashrams and temples. In the afternoon, engage in adventure activities such as river rafting, cliff jumping, or trekking in the nearby hills. As the evening approaches, attend a yoga or meditation session in one of the renowned ashrams.

• Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula: Free, Morning
• Adventure Activities: INR 1,000-2,000 per person, Afternoon
• Yoga or Meditation Session: Varies, Evening

Restaurants

• The Breakfast Club: Enjoy a wholesome breakfast at The Breakfast Club, known for its delicious pancakes and omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• Flavorsome Bites: Indulge in a delectable lunch at Flavorsome Bites, offering a variety of Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
• Culinary Delights: Treat yourself to a mouth-watering dinner at Culinary Delights, known for its wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

A hidden gem in Haridwar is the Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar Bird Sanctuary. Located along the Ganges, this sanctuary is home to a variety of migratory and resident bird species. It's a great spot for bird watching and nature walks, providing a peaceful retreat from the city's bustling streets. Another local favorite is the Chilla Range of Rajaji National Park, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting and jungle safaris. Families can enjoy picnicking and spending quality time amidst nature. These hidden gems provide a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience for families visiting Haridwar.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.