Start your trip by visiting Har Ki Pauri, one of the most iconic landmarks in Haridwar. In the morning, witness the fascinating Ganga Aarti ceremony, where priests offer prayers to the holy River Ganges. Afterward, take a dip in the sacred river and seek blessings. In the afternoon, explore the nearby markets and indulge in some local street food. As the evening sets in, return to Har Ki Pauri and witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti once again.
Har Ki Pauri: Free, 2-3 hours
Local Markets: Approx. ₹500 ($7) for shopping, 2 hours
Ganga Aarti: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious and hearty breakfast at Chotiwala, known for its mouthwatering Indian breakfast dishes like aloo paratha and puri bhaji. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, treat yourself to the flavors of Punjabi cuisine at Big Ben Restaurant. They offer a wide variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, including butter chicken and chole bhature. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at Hoshiyar Puri, a popular restaurant serving authentic North Indian delicacies like paneer tikka and biryani. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Friday, December 1: Temple Trail
Embark on a temple trail to explore the spiritual side of Haridwar. Start your day by visiting the Mansa Devi Temple, situated atop Bilwa Parvat. Enjoy the scenic cable car ride to reach the temple and seek the blessings of the deity. In the afternoon, visit the Chandi Devi Temple, perched atop Neel Parvat Hill. The temple offers panoramic views of the city. In the evening, explore the Daksha Mahadev Temple, known for its rich mythology and serene surroundings.
Mansa Devi Temple: Approx. ₹200 ($3) for cable car ride, 2-3 hours
Chandi Devi Temple: Approx. ₹200 ($3) for cable car ride, 2-3 hours
Daksha Mahadev Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Pandit Ji Ka Dhaba, a popular local eatery known for its delicious and affordable North Indian breakfast dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 100 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit Haveli Haridwar, a restaurant that offers a wide variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. The buffet lunch is highly recommended and costs around INR 400 per person.
For dinner, check out Chotiwala, a well-known restaurant in Haridwar famous for its North Indian cuisine. Enjoy traditional dishes like Dal Makhani and Paneer Tikka at an average cost of INR 300 per person.
Saturday, December 2: Wildlife Adventure
Embark on a wildlife adventure by visiting the Rajaji National Park, located on the outskirts of Haridwar. In the morning, take a safari tour to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the park. Keep an eye out for elephants, tigers, leopards, and various species of birds. After the safari, enjoy a picnic amidst the natural beauty of the park. In the afternoon, visit the Shanti Kunj Ashram, known for its peaceful ambiance and spiritual teachings.
Rajaji National Park: Approx. ₹1,000 ($14) for safari, 4-5 hours
Shanti Kunj Ashram: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Terrace Cafe, known for its cozy atmosphere and wide range of breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to The Clay Oven Restaurant, where you can experience authentic Indian cuisine in a family-friendly setting. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
End your day with a scrumptious dinner at The Haveli Restaurant, offering traditional Indian dishes with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, December 3: Adventure at Rishikesh
Head to Rishikesh, also known as the "Yoga Capital of the World," for a day of adventure and tranquility. In the morning, indulge in thrilling water sports like river rafting on the Ganges. Afterward, visit the iconic Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula suspension bridges, offering breathtaking views of the river and surrounding mountains. In the evening, explore the famous Beatles Ashram, where the legendary band once stayed and meditated.
River Rafting: Approx. ₹1,500 ($21) per person, 4-5 hours
A perfect place to start your day is The Sitting Elephant Café, offering a delightful breakfast menu with options like pancakes, omelettes, and fresh juices. The average cost for a meal is about Rs.300 per person.
For lunch, head to Chotiwala Restaurant, a local favorite known for its authentic Indian cuisine. Enjoy dishes like butter chicken, biryani, and various vegetarian options. The average cost for a meal is about Rs.500 per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Hoshiyar Puri Restaurant. They specialize in North Indian cuisine and serve mouthwatering dishes like butter naan, paneer tikka, and mutton curry. The average cost for a meal is about Rs.600 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off-the-beaten-path attractions, consider visiting the Sapt Rishi Ashram, located around 5 km from Haridwar. This serene ashram is a peaceful retreat amidst nature and offers breathtaking views of the Ganges. Another local favorite is the Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary, located on the banks of the Ganges. Explore the sanctuary's vast biodiversity and enjoy a tranquil nature walk with your family.
To check hotel and flight prices for your trip to Haridwar, you can visit this link.