Family Friendly 4-Day Itinerary in Haridwar

Wednesday, January 17: Exploring Har Ki Pauri and Mansa Devi Temple

Start your trip by visiting Har Ki Pauri, a famous ghat on the banks of the holy Ganges River. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony in the morning, where priests perform rituals accompanied by devotional songs. Afterward, take a cable car ride to the Mansa Devi Temple, dedicated to the goddess Mansa Devi. Enjoy panoramic views of Haridwar from the hilltop temple. In the evening, stroll along the ghats, shop for souvenirs, and savor local street food.

• Har Ki Pauri: Free, 2-3 hours
• Mansa Devi Temple: Cable car ticket: ₹150 (round trip), 2-3 hours
• Exploring Ghats and Street Food: ₹500, 1-2 hours

Thursday, January 18: Excursion to Rishikesh

Embark on a day trip to the nearby spiritual town of Rishikesh, known as the "Yoga Capital of the World." Start your morning with a visit to the iconic Laxman Jhula, a suspension bridge across the Ganges. Explore the ashrams and yoga centers in the area. In the afternoon, enjoy a rejuvenating river rafting experience on the Ganges. End your day by attending the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

• Laxman Jhula: Free, 2-3 hours
• River Rafting: ₹800 per person, 3-4 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free, 1-2 hours

Friday, January 19: Wildlife Safari in Rajaji National Park

Embark on an exciting wildlife safari in Rajaji National Park, located at the foothills of the Shivalik Range. Start your morning with a jeep safari through the dense forests, home to diverse flora and fauna including elephants, tigers, leopards, and various bird species. Take a guided nature walk in the afternoon to explore the park further. Enjoy a picnic amidst nature before returning to Haridwar.

• Jeep Safari: ₹2,000 per person, 4-5 hours
• Guided Nature Walk: ₹500 per person, 2-3 hours
• Picnic Lunch: ₹300 per person, 1 hour

Saturday, January 20: Haridwar Shopping and Chandi Devi Temple

Spend your final day in Haridwar exploring the local markets and indulging in some retail therapy. Visit Bara Bazaar, known for its handicrafts, religious items, and colorful textiles. In the afternoon, take a cable car ride to the Chandi Devi Temple, dedicated to the goddess Chandi. Enjoy the panoramic views of Haridwar from the hilltop and seek blessings. End your day with a serene evening walk along the riverbank.

• Shopping at Bara Bazaar: Budget as per preference, 2-3 hours
• Chandi Devi Temple: Cable car ticket: ₹150 (round trip), 2-3 hours
• Evening Riverbank Walk: Free, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Haridwar, don't miss a visit to the Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar, a bird sanctuary located on the Bhimgoda Barrage. It is an excellent spot for birdwatching and observing migratory birds. Another hidden gem is the Bharat Mata Mandir, a unique temple dedicated to Mother India. The temple showcases a magnificent map of India carved in marble. Both attractions offer a unique experience for the whole family.

For more information on hotel and flight prices, you can check here.