Haridwar- Rishikesh- Dehradun 5-Day Itinerary

Tuesday, October 31, 2023: Arrival in Haridwar

Start your trip by arriving at Haridwar, a spiritual city located on the banks of the holy river Ganges. In the morning, visit Har Ki Pauri, the most famous ghat in Haridwar, and witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. Afternoon can be spent exploring the bustling markets of Haridwar, known for their religious items, handicrafts, and local street food. In the evening, take a peaceful stroll along the riverbank and soak in the spiritual ambiance.

• Har Ki Pauri: Free, 2 hours
• Bazaars of Haridwar: INR 500 (approx.), 3 hours
• Riverbank Walk: Free, 1 hour

Restaurants

• Head to Chotiwala Restaurant for breakfast, a popular eatery known for its delicious Indian breakfast items. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• For lunch, try Hoshiyarpuri Restaurant, a local favorite serving mouthwatering Punjabi cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• In the evening, dine at Pind Balluchi, a vibrant restaurant offering a range of North Indian dishes in a lively setting. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.

Wednesday, November 1, 2023: Rishikesh Exploration

Head to Rishikesh, the "Yoga Capital of the World," in the morning. Begin your day with a calming yoga session or meditation at one of the renowned ashrams in Rishikesh. Afternoon can be spent exploring the iconic Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula suspension bridges, offering panoramic views of the Ganges and the surrounding hills. In the evening, witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan Ashram, followed by a serene riverside dinner.

• Yoga Session: INR 500 (approx.), 2 hours
• Laxman Jhula & Ram Jhula: Free, 2 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan: Free, 1 hour

Thursday, November 2, 2023: Adventure in Rishikesh

Embark on an adventurous day in Rishikesh by experiencing white-water rafting in the Ganges. In the morning, enjoy the thrilling rapids and beautiful landscapes during the rafting excursion. Afternoon can be spent exploring the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, nestled amidst the lush Shivalik Hills. In the evening, indulge in the local cuisine at one of the riverside cafes and enjoy live music performances.

• White-water Rafting: INR 1500 (approx.), 4 hours
• Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: Free, 2 hours
• Riverside Cafe: INR 800 (approx.), 2 hours

Friday, November 3, 2023: Dehradun Delights

Travel to Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand, in the morning. Start your day with a visit to Robber's Cave, known for its natural caves and picturesque waterfall. Afternoon can be spent exploring the vibrant Tibetan Market, offering a wide range of handicrafts and Tibetan delicacies. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the iconic Rajpur Road, lined with shops, cafes, and colonial-era buildings.

• Robber's Cave: INR 50 (approx.), 2 hours
• Tibetan Market: INR 500 (approx.), 2 hours
• Rajpur Road: Free, 1 hour

Restaurants

• Cafe Coffee Day: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Cafe Coffee Day, located in the heart of Dehradun. This cozy cafe offers a variety of freshly brewed coffee, sandwiches, and pastries. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
• Ellora's Bakery: For a delightful lunch, head to Ellora's Bakery, a popular bakery and cafe in Dehradun. They serve a tempting selection of sandwiches, burgers, pizzas, and desserts. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
• Black Pepper Restaurant: Indulge in a flavorsome dinner at Black Pepper Restaurant, known for its mouth-watering Indian and Chinese cuisines. The elegant ambiance and attentive service make this a perfect place for a memorable dinner experience. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.

Saturday, November 4, 2023: Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

As you wrap up your trip, take some time to explore the hidden gems and local favorites in the region. Visit the Sahastradhara, a scenic waterfall and sulphur springs site just outside Dehradun, known for its therapeutic properties. Take a short hike to the picturesque Robber's Cave in Dehradun and enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst nature. Complete your trip with a relaxing spa session at one of the wellness retreats in the area.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Explore the off the beaten path attractions by visiting the secluded Kunjapuri Temple, located on a hilltop offering breathtaking sunrise or sunset views of the Himalayas. Indulge in the local cuisine by trying street food delicacies like Kachori and Aloo Tikki at the popular Paltan Bazaar in Dehradun. If you have time, consider taking a day trip to Mussoorie, a hill station known as the "Queen of the Hills," and take a cable car ride to Gun Hill for panoramic views of the town.