A 5-Day Journey through Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun
Tuesday October 31: Haridwar
Begin your adventure in the spiritual city of Haridwar. In the morning, visit Har Ki Pauri, the famous ghat on the banks of the Ganges River, and witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. Afterward, explore the bustling streets of Haridwar and sample local street food. In the afternoon, head to the Mansa Devi Temple, located atop a hill, and enjoy panoramic views of the city. In the evening, take a serene stroll along the river promenade and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere.
Har Ki Pauri: Free, 2 hours
Mansa Devi Temple: INR 50 for cable car, 2 hours
River promenade: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Haridwar is Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its delicious Indian vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
For lunch, head to Hoshiyar Puri, a local favorite for its crispy puris and delectable curries. Average cost for a meal is about INR 150 per person.
In the evening, enjoy a memorable dinner experience at Big Ben Restaurant, offering a diverse menu with both Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
Wednesday November 1: Rishikesh
Embark on a short journey to the spiritual town of Rishikesh. In the morning, begin your day with a yoga or meditation session in one of the renowned ashrams. Afterward, visit the iconic Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula suspension bridges, offering breathtaking views of the Ganges. In the afternoon, indulge in some adventurous activities like white water rafting or trekking in the nearby hills. As the evening approaches, attend a soul-stirring Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.
Yoga/Meditation session: Varies, 2 hours
Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula: Free, 2 hours
White water rafting/trekking: INR 1000 onwards, 4 hours
Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its delicious Indian and Continental dishes. Enjoy their famous omelettes and pancakes. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a fulfilling lunch, head to The Sitting Elephant Cafe and Restaurant, offering a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. Try their mouthwatering thali or North Indian specialties. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Oasis Restaurant, serving a mix of Indian and Chinese cuisine. Don't miss their delectable butter chicken and noodles. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Thursday November 2: Rishikesh
Continue exploring the wonders of Rishikesh. In the morning, visit the iconic Beatles Ashram, where the Beatles stayed in the 1960s and find inspiration in their legacy. Afterward, take a refreshing dip in the pristine waters of the Neer Garh Waterfall. In the afternoon, explore the local markets and indulge in shopping for spiritual artifacts and handicrafts. As the evening sets in, enjoy a serene sunset boat ride along the Ganges River.
Beatles Ashram: INR 150, 2 hours
Neer Garh Waterfall: Free, 2 hours
Shopping in Rishikesh: Varies, 2 hours
Sunset boat ride: INR 300 per hour, 1 hour
Restaurants
The Chotiwala Restaurant is a popular breakfast spot known for its North Indian and South Indian delicacies. A meal here costs around 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to The Sitting Elephant, a charming restaurant that offers a variety of delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Expect to spend around 400 INR per person for a meal.
In the evening, dine at The 60s Cafe, a retro-themed restaurant offering a mix of Indian and international cuisines. Enjoy your meal for approximately 600 INR per person.
Friday November 3: Dehradun
Head to the capital city of Uttarakhand, Dehradun. In the morning, explore the magnificent Robber's Cave, a natural cave formation with a river flowing through it. Afterward, visit the famous Tapkeshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and witness the unique natural water dripping on the Shivling. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Rajpur Road, known for its shopping and eateries. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk through the beautiful Malsi Deer Park.
Robber's Cave: Free, 2 hours
Tapkeshwar Temple: Free, 1 hour
Rajpur Road: Varies, 2 hours
Malsi Deer Park: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
A quaint breakfast restaurant in Dehradun is The Buffet Rastogi Restaurant, serving delicious Indian and continental breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to Town Table, a popular restaurant known for its wide variety of North Indian and Chinese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner at Kalsang Ama Cafe, a Tibetan restaurant offering authentic Tibetan and Chinese cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Saturday November 4: Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
As you explore the region, don't miss out on some hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the Rajaji National Park, just a short distance from Haridwar and Dehradun, to witness the rich wildlife and enjoy nature trails. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Sahastradhara, a breathtaking waterfall with therapeutic sulfur springs, perfect for relaxation. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, adventure activities like bungee jumping and flying fox are available in Rishikesh. These hidden gems and local favorites offer unique experiences and a chance to connect with nature and culture.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun offer a plethora of off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals. Explore the tranquil Kunjapuri Temple near Rishikesh for stunning sunrise or sunset views. In Haridwar, visit the Chandi Devi Temple, located atop another hill, and enjoy a cable car ride for a scenic journey. In Dehradun, explore the Forest Research Institute, a stunning architectural marvel, and learn about the rich flora and fauna of the region. These hidden gems will add a touch of uniqueness to your journey.
For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices and availability on Kayak.