Family-Friendly 3-Day Itinerary in Rishikesh

Tuesday, November 21: Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat

Start your trip by experiencing the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat. In the morning, witness the spiritual ritual where priests perform prayers and offer lamps to the holy River Ganges. Afterward, explore the nearby markets and indulge in some local snacks. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Laxman Jhula, a suspension bridge that offers panoramic views of the river and the surrounding landscape. You can stroll across the bridge and explore the vibrant markets on the other side. In the evening, enjoy a serene boat ride on the Ganges, taking in the beautiful sunset and the peaceful ambiance.

• Ganga Aarti: Free, 1-2 hours
• Laxman Jhula: Free, 1-2 hours
• Boat Ride on Ganges: INR 200-300 per person, 1 hour

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot near Triveni Ghat is Chotiwallah, known for its delicious chai and mouthwatering kachoris. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
• For a fulfilling lunch experience, head to Little Buddha Cafe near Laxman Jhula. This rooftop restaurant offers a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Tibetan, and Continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
• In the evening, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Sitting Elephant. This riverside restaurant serves a range of international and Indian dishes, along with refreshing cocktails. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Wednesday, November 22: Rajaji National Park

Embark on a wildlife adventure by visiting Rajaji National Park. In the morning, take a jeep safari through the park, spotting diverse flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, deer, and various bird species. Enjoy the thrill of being in the midst of nature and capturing some incredible photographs. After the safari, have a picnic lunch amidst the tranquil surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Chilla Range of the national park, known for its serene forest trails and the chance to spot wildlife up close. End the day with a bonfire and stargazing session at one of the nature campsites nearby.

• Jeep Safari: INR 2,500-3,000 per person, 3-4 hours
• Picnic Lunch: INR 500-700 per family, 1 hour
• Chilla Range Visit: Free, 2-3 hours
• Bonfire and Stargazing: INR 1,000-1,500 per family, 2-3 hours

Thursday, November 23: Beatles Ashram and Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Explore the cultural and spiritual side of Rishikesh on your last day. Start your morning by visiting the Beatles Ashram, also known as Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram. This abandoned ashram was once visited by the famous band, The Beatles, and offers a serene environment for meditation and introspection. Spend some time exploring the graffiti-covered walls and the meditation cells. In the afternoon, hike to the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Enjoy the scenic trek through the forested trails and be rewarded with breathtaking views from the temple premises. End your trip with a traditional Indian dinner at one of the local restaurants.

• Beatles Ashram: INR 150-200 per person, 2-3 hours
• Hike to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: Free, 4-5 hours
• Indian Dinner: INR 500-800 per family, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Nirvana Cafe: Enjoy a delicious vegetarian breakfast at Nirvana Cafe, located near the Beatles Ashram. This cozy cafe offers a variety of healthy options such as smoothie bowls, pancakes, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
• The Sitting Elephant: For a satisfying lunch, head to The Sitting Elephant, a vegetarian-friendly restaurant just a short distance from Neelkanth Mahadev Temple. Indulge in their flavorful Indian thali, which includes an assortment of curries, bread, and rice. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
• Little Buddha Cafe: Experience a delightful dinner at Little Buddha Cafe, located in the heart of Rishikesh. This rooftop restaurant offers a variety of cuisines including Italian, Indian, and Tibetan. Don't miss their wood-fired pizzas and momos. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Rishikesh, make sure to visit the Vashishta Gufa, a peaceful cave where sages and yogis have been meditating for centuries. It offers a serene atmosphere and a chance to connect with your inner self. Another hidden gem is the Phool Chatti Ashram, located on the banks of the Ganges. This ashram provides yoga and meditation retreats for families, giving you an opportunity to rejuvenate and learn ancient wellness practices. Lastly, don't miss the opportunity to try the local street food, such as Aloo Puri and Chole Bhature, at the famous Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its delectable vegetarian dishes.

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check the prices on Kayak.com.