Start your trip in Rishikesh, a spiritual city nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. After checking into your accommodations, spend the morning exploring the famous Laxman Jhula, a suspension bridge over the Ganges River. In the afternoon, visit the Beatles Ashram, where the Beatles stayed in 1968 and immerse yourself in their history. In the evening, take a serene boat ride on the Ganges and witness the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.
Laxman Jhula: Free, 2-3 hours
Beatles Ashram: INR 150 per person, 1-2 hours
Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
Head to Chotiwala Restaurant for a hearty breakfast. This family-friendly restaurant offers a variety of delicious Indian dishes, and the average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a tasty lunch, visit Little Buddha Cafe. Enjoy their delicious Tibetan and Italian cuisine while taking in the beautiful views of the Ganges. The average cost for a meal here is around 300 INR per person.
Indulge in a scrumptious dinner at The Sitting Elephant. This charming restaurant serves a mix of Indian and continental dishes in a cozy setting. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Tuesday, November 14: Yoga and Ayurveda
Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga session at one of the many yoga centers in Rishikesh. Afterward, indulge in a traditional Ayurvedic massage to relax your body and mind. In the afternoon, visit the Neer Garh Waterfall for a refreshing dip in its natural pool. In the evening, enjoy a delicious vegetarian dinner at Chotiwala, a popular restaurant known for its North Indian cuisine.
Yoga Session: INR 300-500 per person, 1-2 hours
Ayurvedic Massage: INR 1000-2000 per person, 1-2 hours
Neer Garh Waterfall: Free, 2-3 hours
Dinner at Chotiwala: INR 400-600 per person
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Rishikesh is The Sitting Elephant Cafe, which offers a variety of healthy and delicious options like fresh fruit bowls and veggie omelettes. The average cost for a meal here is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Ramana's Garden Cafe, a charming eatery known for its organic and vegetarian dishes. Enjoy their tasty thalis and homemade desserts. The average cost for a meal here is about 250 INR per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, try the Garden View Restaurant located near the Laxman Jhula bridge. They serve a range of cuisines including Indian, Italian, and Chinese. The average cost for a meal here is about 400 INR per person.
Wednesday, November 15: Adventure in Rishikesh
Embark on an exciting adventure day in Rishikesh. Start your morning with a thrilling white-water rafting experience on the Ganges River. In the afternoon, go for a trek to the Kunjapuri Temple, located atop a hill, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas. In the evening, explore the local markets and try some street food delicacies.
White-water Rafting: INR 1000-2000 per person, 3-4 hours
Trek to Kunjapuri Temple: INR 500-800 per person, 4-5 hours
Exploring Local Markets: Costs vary, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Sitting Elephant Cafe, known for its delicious pancakes and fresh fruit bowls. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try the Chotiwala Restaurant, a popular spot for North Indian cuisine. Don't miss their butter chicken and naan bread. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For dinner, indulge in the tranquil ambiance of the Little Buddha Cafe. This rooftop restaurant offers a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Thai, and Continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Thursday, November 16: Day Trip to Haridwar
Take a day trip to the nearby city of Haridwar, known for its religious significance. Start your day by attending the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, a sacred ghat on the banks of the Ganges. Explore the bustling streets of Haridwar, visit the ancient temples, and take a dip in the holy Ganges. In the evening, return to Rishikesh and relax at your accommodations.
Transportation to Haridwar: INR 500-800 per person
Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri: Free, 1 hour
Exploring Haridwar: Costs vary, 3-4 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Haridwar is Chotiwala, known for its wide selection of vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to The Great Kabab Factory, where you can indulge in delicious kebabs and Indian specialties. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, try the rooftop restaurant at Bistro Nirvana in Rishikesh, offering stunning views of the Ganges and a diverse menu of international and Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 INR per person.
Friday, November 17: Wellness and Meditation
Immerse yourself in the wellness and meditation practices of Rishikesh. Start your morning with a meditation session led by experienced instructors. Afterward, visit the Sivananda Ashram for an enlightening spiritual experience. In the afternoon, take a dip in the Vashishta Gufa, a sacred cave where sages and saints meditate. In the evening, have a vegetarian dinner at the famous German Bakery.
Meditation Session: INR 300-500 per person, 1-2 hours
Visit Sivananda Ashram: Free, 2-3 hours
Dip in Vashishta Gufa: Free, 1-2 hours
Dinner at German Bakery: INR 300-500 per person
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to the Chotiwala Restaurant which offers a variety of Indian and Continental breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
For lunch, try the Little Buddha Cafe located near Laxman Jhula. They serve delicious Tibetan and Italian dishes with an average cost of around INR 300 per person.
For dinner, visit the popular Oasis Restaurant known for its delectable Indian and International cuisines. The average cost for a meal is about INR 400 per person.
Saturday, November 18: Exploring Rishikesh
Spend the day exploring the lesser-known attractions of Rishikesh. Start your morning with a visit to the Swarg Ashram, a tranquil ashram where you can meditate and enjoy the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Ganges and explore the local cafes and shops. In the evening, attend a traditional Kathak dance performance at the Ganga Kinare Hotel.
Swarg Ashram: Free, 2-3 hours
Exploring Local Cafes and Shops: Costs vary, 2-3 hours
Kathak Dance Performance: INR 500-1000 per person, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Little Buddha Cafe, known for its delicious pancakes and fresh fruit smoothies. A meal here will cost you around 200-300 INR per person.
When it's time for lunch, visit The Sitting Elephant. This vegetarian restaurant offers a range of healthy and tasty dishes, with an average cost of about 300-400 INR per person.
For dinner, Spice Kitchen is a great option. This restaurant serves a variety of Indian and global cuisines, with an average cost of about 500-600 INR per person.
Sunday, November 19: Departure from Rishikesh
End your trip to Rishikesh with a relaxed morning by the Ganges, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Afterward, check out from your accommodations and bid farewell to this spiritual haven. Depart for Surat with beautiful memories and a rejuvenated spirit.
Relaxation by the Ganges: Free, 1-2 hours
Transportation to Surat: Prices vary, depending on mode of transportation
Restaurants
Aloha Cafe: Enjoy a delicious and healthy breakfast at Aloha Cafe, located near the Ganges. Indulge in their famous acai bowls and fresh fruit smoothies. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Little Buddha Cafe: For a satisfying lunch, head to Little Buddha Cafe, known for its diverse menu and relaxed ambiance. Dig into their mouth-watering wood-fired pizzas or try their delicious Tibetan momos. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
The Sitting Elephant: Treat yourself to a memorable dinner experience at The Sitting Elephant, a riverside restaurant offering stunning views of the Ganges. Relish their delectable Indian and international dishes while enjoying live music. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While in Rishikesh, make sure to explore the offbeat places that locals love. Visit the Phool Chatti Ashram, a serene retreat tucked away from the main tourist areas. Take a short hike to the Patna Waterfall, a hidden gem offering a refreshing experience. For a unique dining experience, try the famous Chai on the Rocks cafe, known for its breathtaking views of the river and mountains.