Family-Friendly Uttarakhand Itinerary

Friday, September 8: Nainital

Start your trip by exploring the beautiful hill station of Nainital. In the morning, take a boat ride on the serene Naini Lake and visit the Naina Devi Temple located on its shores. Enjoy a leisurely picnic at the scenic Naini Peak, also known as China Peak, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, visit the Raj Bhawan, a colonial-era governor's residence, and the Eco Cave Gardens, a natural cave complex. As the evening sets in, take a stroll along the bustling Mall Road, lined with shops and restaurants.

• Naini Lake Boat Ride: INR 200, 2 hours
• Naina Devi Temple: Free, 1 hour
• Naini Peak: Free, 2 hours
• Raj Bhawan: Free, 1 hour
• Eco Cave Gardens: INR 60, 1.5 hours
• Mall Road: Free, 2 hours

Saturday, September 9: Rishikesh

Embark on an adventurous day in the spiritual town of Rishikesh. Start your morning with a visit to the iconic Lakshman Jhula, a suspension bridge across the holy Ganges River. Explore the nearby Swarg Ashram, known for its peaceful atmosphere and yoga centers. In the afternoon, indulge in river rafting on the Ganges, an exhilarating experience for the whole family. Visit the Beatles Ashram, where the famous band once stayed, and discover the graffiti-covered meditation cells. As the evening approaches, witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony at the Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

• Lakshman Jhula: Free, 1 hour
• Swarg Ashram: Free, 2 hours
• River Rafting: INR 1,500 per person, 3 hours
• Beatles Ashram: INR 150, 1.5 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free, 1 hour

Restaurants

• Pure Soul Cafe: Enjoy a wholesome breakfast at Pure Soul Cafe, located near Lakshman Jhula. They serve delicious vegetarian options like fresh fruit bowls, yogurt parfaits, and smoothie bowls. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• Chotiwala Restaurant: For a satisfying lunch, head to Chotiwala Restaurant, situated in Rishikesh. They offer a wide range of Indian dishes such as dal makhani, butter naan, and paneer tikka. The average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
• Little Buddha Cafe: Indulge in a delightful dinner at Little Buddha Cafe, known for its cozy ambiance and delectable Tibetan cuisine. Try their momos, thukpa, and stir-fried noodles. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Sunday, September 10: Jim Corbett National Park

Experience the thrill of wildlife in the famous Jim Corbett National Park. Start your morning with a jeep safari through the park, spotting diverse wildlife including tigers, elephants, and deer. As the day progresses, visit the Corbett Museum to learn about the history and conservation efforts of the park. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon picnic at the scenic Corbett Waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery. In the evening, take a nature walk along the Dhikala Zone, known for its picturesque landscapes and abundant birdlife.

• Jeep Safari: INR 4,000 per jeep, 3 hours
• Corbett Museum: INR 100, 1 hour
• Corbett Waterfall: Free, 2 hours
• Nature Walk in Dhikala Zone: Free, 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, consider visiting the small village of Chopta, also known as the "Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand." Nestled amidst the mighty Himalayas, Chopta offers breathtaking views and is a popular trekking destination. The tranquility of Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Kumaon hills, is another hidden gem where you can witness diverse flora and fauna. Families with children may enjoy a visit to the G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo in Nainital, where they can witness a variety of Himalayan wildlife up close. These offbeat attractions provide an opportunity to connect with nature and create lasting memories.

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