7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary: Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun & Mussoorie
Tuesday, October 17: Haridwar
In the morning, start your trip with a visit to Har Ki Pauri, the most sacred bathing ghat in Haridwar. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony in the evening at this holy spot. Take a walk along the bustling streets of Haridwar and explore the local markets.
Har Ki Pauri: Entrance is free, Estimated time spent: 2 hours
Local markets: Cost varies, Estimated time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
The famous Hoshiyar Puri in Haridwar is a must-visit for breakfast. Enjoy crispy, golden puris served with aloo sabzi and dahi. Average cost for a meal is about ₹100 per person.
For a delicious vegetarian lunch, head to Chotiwala Restaurant in Haridwar. They offer a wide variety of North Indian dishes like dal makhani, paneer tikka, and tandoori roti. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Experience the flavors of Rajasthan at Big Ben Restaurant in Haridwar for dinner. Known for its Rajasthani thali, the restaurant serves a lavish spread including dal bati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and baati. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Wednesday, October 18: Rishikesh
Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Laxman Jhula, a suspension bridge over the Ganges River. Experience tranquility at the Parmarth Niketan Ashram, known for its spiritual ambiance. In the evening, witness the Ganga Aarti at the Triveni Ghat.
Laxman Jhula: Entrance is free, Estimated time spent: 1 hour
Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Entrance is free, Estimated time spent: 2 hours
Triveni Ghat: Entrance is free, Estimated time spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
Situated near Laxman Jhula, Chotiwala Restaurant offers a variety of breakfast options such as parathas and dosas. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to The Little Buddha Cafe, a popular eatery known for its delicious Tibetan and International cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Enjoy a delightful dinner at The Sitting Elephant, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the Ganges and the surrounding hills. The menu offers a range of Indian and Continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Thursday, October 19: Dehradun
Explore the beautiful Robber's Cave, a natural cave formation, in the morning. Visit the Mindrolling Monastery, one of the largest Buddhist centers in India. Spend the evening at the Clock Tower, surrounded by vibrant shops and local delicacies.
Clock Tower: Cost varies, Estimated time spent: 2 hours
Friday, October 20: Rishikesh
Embark on a thrilling river rafting adventure on the Ganges River. Visit the Beatles Ashram, where the famous band members stayed and meditated. Relax and rejuvenate with a yoga or meditation session at one of the many yoga centers in Rishikesh.
River rafting: Cost varies, Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
Yoga/Meditation session: Cost varies, Estimated time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
Aloha Café: Start your day with a delicious continental breakfast at Aloha Café. Enjoy a variety of freshly baked goods, pancakes, and refreshing fruit juices. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about 200 INR per person.
Ganga View Restaurant: For lunch, head to Ganga View Restaurant and savor the breathtaking views of the Ganges River while indulging in a delightful Indian thali or a variety of vegetarian dishes. The average cost for a lunch meal is about 300 INR per person.
Chotiwala Restaurant: End your day with a fulfilling dinner at Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its authentic Indian cuisine. Choose from a wide array of mouthwatering curries, biryanis, and tandoori dishes. The average cost for a dinner meal is about 400 INR per person.
Saturday, October 21: Mussoorie
Explore the scenic beauty of Mussoorie by visiting Kempty Falls in the morning. Take a cable car ride to Gun Hill for panoramic views of the Himalayan range. Enjoy leisurely walks on Mall Road, known for its shops, cafes, and breathtaking views.
Cable car ride to Gun Hill: Cost varies, Estimated time spent: 1 hour
Mall Road: Cost varies, Estimated time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
The Tavern is a charming breakfast spot offering a variety of options including pancakes, waffles, and Indian breakfast delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Urban Street Cafe is a popular lunch spot known for its diverse menu featuring sandwiches, pizzas, and Indian street food. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Trout House Grill & Bar is a picturesque dinner destination offering a mouthwatering selection of grilled trout, seafood, and Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Restaurants
The Tavern Restaurant: A cozy breakfast spot located in Mussoorie, offering a wide range of breakfast options including freshly baked pastries, omelets, and pancakes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
Cafe Ivy: A charming cafe serving delicious lunch options such as sandwiches, burgers, and salads. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance and beautiful mountain views. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
Urban Turban Bistro: Indulge in a delightful dinner experience at this Indian fusion restaurant, known for its innovative dishes and vibrant atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Sunday, October 22: Mussoorie
Visit the historic Landour area and explore iconic landmarks like Lal Tibba, the highest point in Mussoorie. Enjoy a peaceful picnic at Company Garden and indulge in boating at Mussoorie Lake. End the day by visiting the beautiful Christ Church.
Lal Tibba: Entrance is free, Estimated time spent: 1 hour
Company Garden: Entrance fee: INR 20, Estimated time spent: 2 hours
Mussoorie Lake: Boating cost varies, Estimated time spent: 1 hour
Christ Church: Entrance is free, Estimated time spent: 1 hour
Monday, October 23: Haridwar
Conclude your trip with a visit to the Chandi Devi Temple, located atop the Neel Parvat hill. Take a cable car ride to reach the temple and admire the panoramic views. Spend the rest of the day exploring the local markets and enjoying local cuisine.
Chandi Devi Temple: Cable car ride cost: INR 192 (round trip), Estimated time spent: 3 hours
Local markets: Cost varies, Estimated time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
Head to Chotiwala Restaurant for breakfast, a popular spot known for its delicious Indian breakfast options. Enjoy a hearty meal with dishes like parathas and dosas. Average cost for a meal is about 150 rupees per person.
Savor a scrumptious lunch at The Sitting Elephant, a cozy restaurant with a relaxed ambiance. Indulge in their flavorful North Indian and Continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 rupees per person.
For a delightful dinner, visit Hoshiyar Puri in Haridwar, where you can relish their lip-smacking Punjabi cuisine. Don't miss out on their signature dish - puri with kashmiri aloo. Average cost for a meal is about 250 rupees per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Rishikesh, don't miss the chance to visit Neer Garh Waterfall, a serene waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. For some adventure, try cliff jumping and body surfing in the Ganges River. Locals also recommend visiting Mossy Falls in Mussoorie, a lesser-known waterfall offering tranquility and natural beauty.
For hotel and flight bookings, check out Kayak for the best prices and availability.