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Exploring Mumbai to Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Varanasi: A 7-Day Itinerary

Wednesday, September 20: Mumbai

Start your journey in the bustling city of Mumbai. In the morning, visit the iconic Gateway of India and take a boat ride to Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant markets of Colaba and indulge in some street food. As the evening sets in, experience the buzzing nightlife of Mumbai at Marine Drive.

  • Gateway of India: Entrance fee - INR 30, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Elephanta Caves: Ferry ticket - INR 200, Entrance fee - INR 40, Time spent - 3-4 hours
  • Colaba Markets: Cost varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Marine Drive: Free, Time spent - as long as you like
Thursday, September 21: Haridwar

Head to Haridwar, a holy city on the banks of the Ganges River. Start your day with a visit to Har Ki Pauri, the most sacred ghat in Haridwar, and witness the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony. In the afternoon, explore the bustling streets of the market, offering a variety of religious items. End the day with a visit to Chandi Devi Temple for panoramic views of Haridwar.

  • Har Ki Pauri: Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Ganga Aarti: Free, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Market Shopping: Cost varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Chandi Devi Temple: Cable car ticket - INR 200, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Friday, September 22: Rishikesh

Proceed to the spiritual town of Rishikesh, known as the Yoga Capital of the World. Start your morning with a yoga session at one of the many ashrams or yoga centers. Afternoon is perfect for a peaceful walk on the Laxman Jhula, a suspension bridge over the Ganges. In the evening, attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

  • Yoga Session: Cost varies, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Laxman Jhula: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free, Time spent - 1 hour
Saturday, September 23: Varanasi

Travel to the spiritual capital of India, Varanasi. Begin your morning with a boat ride along the sacred Ganges River, witnessing the morning rituals and ceremonies. In the afternoon, explore the narrow lanes of the old city, visiting the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the Dashashwamedh Ghat. End the day with a serene sunset boat ride and witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat.

  • Boat Ride on Ganges: Cost varies, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Dashashwamedh Ghat: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Sunset Boat Ride & Ganga Aarti: Cost varies, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Sunday, September 24: Varanasi

Continue exploring Varanasi with a morning visit to Sarnath, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Explore the ancient ruins and the famous Dhamek Stupa. In the afternoon, visit the Tulsi Manas Mandir, a temple dedicated to Lord Rama, and the Banaras Hindu University. End the day with a relaxing evening walk along the ghats.

  • Sarnath: Entrance fee - INR 30, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Tulsi Manas Mandir: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Banaras Hindu University: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Ghat Walk: Free, Time spent - as long as you like
Monday, September 25: Varanasi

Experience the spiritual side of Varanasi by participating in a sunrise boat ride and witnessing the morning rituals along the ghats. In the afternoon, explore the local markets of Varanasi, known for their silk sarees and handicrafts. Indulge in delicious street food and visit the famous Blue Lassi shop. End the day with a visit to the stunning Ramnagar Fort.

  • Sunrise Boat Ride: Cost varies, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Market Shopping: Cost varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Blue Lassi: Cost varies, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Ramnagar Fort: Entrance fee - INR 15, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Tuesday, September 26: Varanasi

On your last day, visit the Assi Ghat in the morning and take part in the Ganga Aarti ceremony. Explore the nearby Vishwanath Gali, known for its street food and quirky shops. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the tranquility of the stunning Tibetan Buddhist site, Sarnath Deer Park. End your trip with a relaxing evening boat ride on the Ganges.

  • Assi Ghat & Ganga Aarti: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Vishwanath Gali: Cost varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Sarnath Deer Park: Entrance fee - INR 10, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Evening Boat Ride: Cost varies, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Varanasi, don't miss out on the hidden gem called Manikarnika Ghat, one of the main cremation ghats. It's an intense but fascinating place to witness the rituals surrounding death. Also, make time to visit the nearby village of Chunar, known for its ancient fort and beautiful terracotta pottery.

For more information on hotels and flight prices, you can check https://kayak.com/in?a=kan_252520_563153&p=v1&lc=en&url=%2Fstays.

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