Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary in Uttarakhand

Friday, December 8: Rishikesh

Start your trip by exploring the spiritual town of Rishikesh. In the morning, visit the iconic Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula, suspension bridges over the Ganges River offering breathtaking views. Spend the afternoon at the Beatles Ashram, where the famous band once meditated. In the evening, attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

• Laxman Jhula: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Ram Jhula: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Beatles Ashram: Estimated Cost - INR 150, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Saturday, December 9: Nainital

Head to Nainital, a beautiful hill station surrounded by mountains and lakes. Start your day with a morning boat ride on Naini Lake, followed by a visit to Naina Devi Temple. In the afternoon, explore the Mall Road for shopping and try the famous momos. Enjoy the evening at Snow View Point, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.

• Naini Lake Boat Ride: Estimated Cost - INR 150, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Naina Devi Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Mall Road: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Snow View Point: Estimated Cost - INR 50, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday, December 10: Jim Corbett National Park

Embark on a thrilling wildlife adventure at Jim Corbett National Park. In the morning, go for an exciting jungle safari to spot tigers, elephants, and other wildlife species. Afternoon can be spent exploring the Corbett Museum and learning about the park's history. Enjoy the evening with a nature walk or birdwatching in the park's tranquil surroundings.

• Jungle Safari: Estimated Cost - INR 4,000 (approx.), Time Spent - 4-5 hours
• Corbett Museum: Estimated Cost - INR 20, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Nature Walk/Birdwatching: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Ramnagar Cafe. This charming cafe offers a variety of options ranging from hearty breakfast platters to freshly baked pastries. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
• For lunch, head to Safari Restaurant located near the entrance of Jim Corbett National Park. This restaurant offers a diverse menu with both Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 400 per person.
• In the evening, indulge in a sumptuous dinner at Corbett Spice Restaurant. Known for its authentic Indian flavors and cozy ambiance, this restaurant offers a delightful dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 600 per person.

Monday, December 11: Mussoorie

Visit the picturesque hill station of Mussoorie known as the "Queen of Hills." Start your day with a visit to Kempty Falls, a popular waterfall where you can take a refreshing dip. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Mall Road for shopping and try local delicacies. You can end the day by riding the cable car to Gun Hill for breathtaking sunset views.

• Kempty Falls: Estimated Cost - INR 150, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Mall Road: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Cable Car to Gun Hill: Estimated Cost - INR 100, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, December 12: Ranikhet

Head to the serene hill station of Ranikhet, surrounded by lush green forests and magnificent views of the Himalayas. Start your day with a visit to Chaubatia Garden, known for its orchards and panoramic vistas. In the afternoon, explore Jhula Devi Temple, famous for its bells and religious significance. Spend the evening at the tranquil Upat Golf Course, enjoying the serene surroundings.

• Chaubatia Garden: Estimated Cost - INR 20, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Jhula Devi Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Upat Golf Course: Estimated Cost - INR 200 (approx.), Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, December 13: Auli

Experience the winter wonderland of Auli, a popular skiing destination. Start your day with a thrilling cable car ride to Auli from Joshimath, enjoying the breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains. Spend the day skiing or snowboarding in the slopes of Auli. Evening can be spent enjoying a bonfire and savoring hot local cuisine.

• Cable Car to Auli: Estimated Cost - INR 1,000 (approx.), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Skiing/Snowboarding: Estimated Cost - INR 1,500 (approx.), Time Spent - Full day
• Bonfire and Local Cuisine: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Thursday, December 14: Haridwar

Conclude your trip in the holy city of Haridwar. Start your day by taking a dip in the sacred Ganges River at Har Ki Pauri Ghat. In the afternoon, visit the famous Mansa Devi Temple, located on a hilltop. Spend the evening at Chandi Devi Temple, accessible via a thrilling cable car ride, and witness the mesmerizing evening aarti.

• Har Ki Pauri Ghat: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Mansa Devi Temple: Estimated Cost - Cable Car - INR 90, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Chandi Devi Temple: Estimated Cost - Cable Car - INR 90, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the village of Kanatal, nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas. Enjoy camping amidst nature, trekking to Surkanda Devi Temple, and indulging in local Garhwali cuisine. Another offbeat destination is Chopta, known as the "Mini Switzerland of India." It offers scenic beauty, trekking trails, and a visit to the famous Tungnath Temple, one of the Panch Kedar.

Check hotel and flight prices here.