A Week in Dwarka and Haridwar: Family-Friendly Itinerary

Thursday, September 28: Arrival in Dwarka

Welcome to Dwarka! Start your trip by visiting the famous Dwarkadhish Temple in the morning. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is an important pilgrimage site. In the afternoon, explore the lively streets of Dwarka and enjoy a traditional Gujarati lunch. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Gomti River and witness the beautiful sunset.

  • Dwarkadhish Temple: Entry is free, estimated time spent: 2 hours
  • Local markets in Dwarka: Souvenirs and shopping, estimated cost: varies, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Gomti River: Free, estimated time spent: 1 hour
Friday, September 29: Bet Dwarka and Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple

Start your day by taking a boat ride to Bet Dwarka, an island located near Dwarka. Explore the ancient temples on the island and enjoy the scenic views. In the afternoon, visit the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Witness the grandeur of the temple and offer your prayers. In the evening, return to Dwarka and relax at your hotel.

  • Boat ride to Bet Dwarka: Estimated cost: varies, estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Temples in Bet Dwarka: Entry fee varies, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple: Entry fee is free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Saturday, September 30: Dwarka Sightseeing

Explore more of Dwarka's attractions today. Start with a visit to Rukmini Devi Temple, known for its intricate architecture. Then, head to the Dwarka Lighthouse for panoramic views of the city and the Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, visit the Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple, situated on a small island. Enjoy the serene surroundings and the temple's spiritual vibes. Spend the evening at Gopi Talav, a historic pond associated with Lord Krishna's pastimes.

  • Rukmini Devi Temple: Entry fee is free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Dwarka Lighthouse: Entry fee is free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple: Entry fee is free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Gopi Talav: Entry fee is free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Sunday, October 1: Travel to Haridwar

Today, bid farewell to Dwarka and embark on a journey to Haridwar. Take a flight or train from Dwarka to Haridwar (travel time approximately 6-7 hours). Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take some rest. In the evening, attend the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, where you can witness the mesmerizing sight of lamps floating down the Ganges River.

  • Flight/Train from Dwarka to Haridwar: Estimated cost: check flight or train prices, estimated time spent: 6-7 hours
  • Har Ki Pauri Ganga Aarti: Free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Monday, October 2: Haridwar Exploration

Start your day by visiting the Mansa Devi Temple, located atop the Bilwa Parvat hill. Take a cable car ride (ropeway) to reach the temple and enjoy the breathtaking views of Haridwar. In the afternoon, explore the famous Haridwar Market, known for its variety of religious items and handicrafts. In the evening, take a dip in the holy Ganges River at Har Ki Pauri and experience the spiritual cleansing.

  • Mansa Devi Temple: Cable car ride estimated cost: varies, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Haridwar Market: Shopping, estimated cost: varies, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Har Ki Pauri Ganges River Dip: Estimated cost: free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Tuesday, October 3: Explore Rishikesh

Take a day trip to Rishikesh, located just 20 kilometers from Haridwar. Start your day with a visit to the famous Lakshman Jhula, a suspension bridge over the Ganges River. Explore the temples and ashrams around the area. In the afternoon, head to the Beatles Ashram, also known as Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, where the Beatles stayed in the 1960s. Enjoy the serene surroundings and take a walk through the meditation cells. In the evening, attend the Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

  • Lakshman Jhula: Free, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Beatles Ashram: Entry fee is applicable, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Wednesday, October 4: Return to Haridwar and Departure

Return to Haridwar from Rishikesh in the morning. Spend some time exploring the ashrams and temples in Haridwar or take a dip in the holy Ganges River. In the afternoon, check out from your hotel and depart from Haridwar with beautiful memories of your trip.

  • Exploring Haridwar: Estimated cost: varies, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, consider visiting Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, located amidst the lush greenery of the Himalayas near Rishikesh. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and offers a tranquil atmosphere. You can also explore the Rajaji National Park, just a short distance from Haridwar, for wildlife sightings and nature walks. Both attractions are family-friendly and provide a refreshing break from the bustling cities.

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