Start your trip in Haridwar, the holy city of India. In the morning, visit Har Ki Pauri, a renowned ghat on the banks of the Ganges River, to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. Afterward, explore the bustling streets of Haridwar, known for their vibrant markets and delicious street food. In the afternoon, take a cable car ride to Mansa Devi Temple for panoramic views of the city. In the evening, head to the Chandi Devi Temple and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Situated near the Ganges River, Bikanerwala is a popular breakfast spot in Haridwar offering a wide range of vegetarian dishes like puri bhaji, chole bhature, and dosas. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
For a delicious and affordable lunch, head to Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its traditional Indian thali and mouthwatering North Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹250 per person.
Experience the vibrant flavors of Rajasthani cuisine at Hoshiyarpuri, a dinner hotspot in Haridwar. Enjoy the famous Dal Bati Churma and other Rajasthani delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Wednesday, November 1: Rishikesh
Today, embark on a spiritual journey to Rishikesh, the Yoga Capital of the World. Start your morning with a yoga or meditation session by the banks of the Ganges River. Afterward, explore the iconic Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula suspension bridges. In the afternoon, visit the famous Beatles Ashram, where the Beatles stayed in the 1960s. End your day with a visit to Triveni Ghat to witness the evening Ganga Aarti.
Yoga/Meditation session: INR 200 per person, 1 hour
Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula: Free, 2 hours
Beatles Ashram: INR 150 per person, 2 hours
Triveni Ghat: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
Ashoka Restaurant: Enjoy a traditional Indian breakfast at Ashoka Restaurant, known for its wide range of dosas and hot chai. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Ira's Kitchen: Indulge in a delicious lunch at Ira's Kitchen, offering a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, including homemade pasta and salads. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
The Sitting Elephant: Savor a memorable dinner experience at The Sitting Elephant, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the Ganges River. Enjoy a mix of Indian and international cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Thursday, November 2: Dehradun
Head to Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand, known for its scenic beauty. Start your morning with a visit to the picturesque Robber's Cave and enjoy a refreshing dip in its cold springs. In the afternoon, explore the iconic Clock Tower and shop for souvenirs in the bustling Paltan Bazaar. Don't miss a visit to the Mindrolling Monastery, one of the largest Buddhist centers in India, in the evening.
Robber's Cave: Free, 2 hours
Paltan Bazaar shopping: INR 500 per person, 2 hours
Mindrolling Monastery: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Buffet Hut. This popular restaurant offers a wide variety of delicious Indian and continental dishes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to The Great Indian Pub. This lively pub-style restaurant serves an array of tasty Indian and Chinese dishes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Black Pepper Restaurant. Known for its excellent Indian and Mughlai cuisine, this restaurant offers a cosy ambiance and friendly service. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Friday, November 3: Mussoorie
Today, venture into the hill station of Mussoorie, famous for its stunning views of the Himalayas. In the morning, take a cable car ride to Gun Hill, the second highest peak in Mussoorie, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic vistas. Explore the charming Mall Road in the afternoon, filled with shops, cafes, and local handicrafts. End your day with a visit to Kempty Falls, a popular tourist spot known for its cascading waterfalls.
Cable car ride to Gun Hill: INR 75 per person, 2 hours
Mall Road exploration: Free, 2 hours
Kempty Falls: INR 100 per person, 3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast in Mussoorie, head to Cafe Ivy, a cozy cafe known for its delicious pancakes and refreshing coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Urban Turban, a popular restaurant serving a variety of Indian and international dishes. Try their flavorful biryanis and mouthwatering kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at Tavern Restaurant, a charming eatery known for its warm ambiance and delectable European cuisine. Don't miss their signature dishes like the creamy pasta and succulent grilled meats. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Saturday, November 4: Dehradun
On your last day, explore more of Dehradun before concluding your trip. Start your morning with a visit to the enchanting Robber's Cave. In the afternoon, discover the beauty of Malsi Deer Park and interact with various wildlife species. End your journey with a visit to the Tapkeshwar Temple, known for its natural cave formation and religious significance.
Robber's Cave: Free, 2 hours
Malsi Deer Park: INR 20 per person, 2 hours
Tapkeshwar Temple: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Coffee Day, a popular coffee chain known for its delicious coffee and breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try out the famous Ellora's Melting Moments, a vegetarian restaurant offering a wide range of Indian and Continental dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at The Great Indian Pub, a well-known restaurant serving authentic Indian cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting Neer Garh Waterfall near Rishikesh for a serene and secluded experience amidst nature. Locals also love exploring Haridwar's Moti Bazaar, a hidden gem famous for its handicrafts and jewelry. In Dehradun, a visit to Sahastradhara, a natural spring known for its therapeutic properties, is highly recommended. These lesser-known places offer a unique perspective and a break from the tourist crowds.