Start your trip in Haridwar, a city renowned for its spiritual significance and vibrant culture. Begin your morning with a visit to Har Ki Pauri, a sacred ghat on the banks of the Ganges River. Witness the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony, where devotees offer prayers and light diyas. In the afternoon, explore the bustling markets of Haridwar, such as Moti Bazaar and Bara Bazaar, known for their wide range of religious items and souvenirs. For the evening, take a walk along the iconic ghats and immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance.
Har Ki Pauri Ghat: Free, 2 hours
Moti Bazaar: Varies, 2 hours
Bara Bazaar: Varies, 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious North Indian breakfast at Chotiwala Restaurant. This popular eatery offers a variety of traditional dishes like parathas and poha. The average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
For lunch, head to Big Ben Restaurant and enjoy their extensive menu featuring Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines. From biryanis to sizzlers, there's something for everyone. The average cost for a meal is about INR 400 per person.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Hoshiyar Puri, a well-known vegetarian restaurant in Haridwar. Indulge in their mouthwatering thalis and a wide assortment of Indian vegetarian delicacies. The average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
Saturday, September 9: Spirituality and Serenity
Begin your second day by visiting the Daksha Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Explore the intricate architecture and learn about the fascinating legends associated with the temple. Afterward, make your way to the Chandi Devi Temple, perched atop the Neel Parvat hill. Take the cable car ride to reach the temple and enjoy panoramic views of Haridwar. In the afternoon, visit the Mansa Devi Temple, located on the Bilwa Parvat Hill. End your day with a serene boat ride on the Ganges River during sunset.
Daksha Mahadev Temple: Free, 1 hour
Chandi Devi Temple: Cable car ride (approx. $5), 3 hours
Mansa Devi Temple: Cable car ride (approx. $5), 2 hours
Ganges River Boat Ride: $10 per person, 1 hour
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot is Big Ben Cafe, known for its delicious omelettes and hearty breakfast platters. A meal here costs around Rs. 150 per person.
If you're looking for a tasty lunch option, head to Hoshiyarpuri, a local Punjabi restaurant. They serve authentic North Indian dishes and a meal here costs about Rs. 200 per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, try out The Great Kabab Factory. They offer a wide variety of mouthwatering kebabs and traditional Indian delicacies. The average cost for a meal here is around Rs. 500 per person.
Sunday, September 10: Nature and Adventure
Embark on an exciting day filled with nature and adventure. Start your morning by visiting Rajaji National Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Take a safari ride to spot majestic animals like elephants, tigers, and deer in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, head to the nearby town of Rishikesh, known as the "Yoga Capital of the World." Explore the famous Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula suspension bridges that span the Ganges River. End your trip with a thrilling white-water rafting experience in Rishikesh.
Rajaji National Park: Safari ride (approx. $25), 4 hours
Laxman Jhula: Free, 2 hours
Ram Jhula: Free, 2 hours
White-Water Rafting: $30 per person, 2 hours
Restaurants
Situated in the heart of Haridwar, The Big Chill is a popular breakfast spot known for its delicious pancakes, fresh fruit bowls, and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Chotiwala Restaurant, a local favorite famous for its authentic North Indian cuisine. Try their mouthwatering thali platter and you won't be disappointed. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Experience a delightful dinner at Hoshiyar Puri, a renowned restaurant serving lip-smacking vegetarian dishes. Don't miss their signature dish, Chole Bhature, a combination of spicy chickpeas and fluffy fried bread. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, venture off the beaten path and explore some hidden gems in Haridwar. Visit the Sapt Rishi Ashram, located on the banks of the Ganges River, where seven sages are believed to have meditated. Another must-visit spot is the Bharat Mata Mandir, dedicated to Mother India. This eight-story temple showcases various deities and historical figures, portraying India's rich heritage. To escape the crowds, head to the Neer Gaddu Waterfall, a serene and picturesque spot where you can relax and rejuvenate amidst nature.
Check here for hotel and flight prices in Haridwar.