A Family-Friendly 3-Day Itinerary in Haridwar and Nearby

Wednesday, November 15: Exploring Haridwar

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of Haridwar, one of the holiest cities in India. In the morning, visit Har Ki Pauri, the famous ghat on the banks of the Ganges River. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, a spiritual ritual involving fire and chanting. Afterward, head to Mansa Devi Temple, located atop a hill. Take the cable car ride to reach the temple and enjoy panoramic views of the city. In the evening, explore the bustling markets of Haridwar, known for their religious items, handicrafts, and street food.

• Har Ki Pauri: Free Entry, 2 hours
• Mansa Devi Temple: Cable car ride - INR 100 per person, 3 hours
• Haridwar Markets: Cost varies, 2 hours

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot in Haridwar is Chotiwala, known for its delicious and filling vegetarian breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• For a tasty and affordable lunch, head to Hoshiyar Puri. This local eatery serves a variety of North Indian dishes, including puri sabzi and chole bhature. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
• If you're looking for a dinner spot with a laid-back ambience, try Mathura Walon Ki Pracheen Dukaan. This restaurant specializes in traditional North Indian cuisine, with dishes like butter chicken and dal makhani. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.

Thursday, November 16: Rishikesh Adventure

Embark on an adventurous day trip to Rishikesh, located about 20 kilometers from Haridwar. In the morning, visit the iconic Lakshman Jhula, a suspension bridge over the Ganges. Take a leisurely walk across the bridge, soaking in the serene surroundings. Afterward, head to the Beatles Ashram, also known as Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, where the Beatles once stayed. Explore the abandoned ashram and discover its graffiti-covered walls. In the afternoon, engage in thrilling activities like river rafting or bungee jumping, which Rishikesh is renowned for. End the day with a visit to Parmarth Niketan Ashram to attend the evening Ganga Aarti.

• Lakshman Jhula: Free Entry, 2 hours
• Beatles Ashram: Entry fee - INR 150 per person, 2 hours
• Adventure activities: Cost varies, 3 hours
• Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free Entry, 1 hour

Restaurants

• Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Chotiwala Restaurant. This popular eatery offers a wide variety of delicious vegetarian dishes, including traditional Indian breakfast options like parathas and poha. The average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
• Lunch: For a satisfying lunch, head to Hoshiyar Puri, an iconic restaurant known for its delectable North Indian cuisine. Indulge in flavorful curries, tandoori dishes, and freshly baked breads. The average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
• Dinner: Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at The Great Kabab Factory. This renowned restaurant offers an exquisite assortment of succulent kababs, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, grilled to perfection. The average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.

Friday, November 17: Haridwar Nature and Culture

On your last day, explore the natural and cultural sites of Haridwar. Begin with a visit to Chandi Devi Temple, situated atop Neel Parvat Hill. Take the cable car ride to reach the temple and enjoy breathtaking views of the city. Afterward, head to Rajaji National Park, located on the outskirts of Haridwar. Embark on a safari to spot wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and various bird species. In the afternoon, visit the Swami Vivekananda Park, a serene park with lush greenery and a statue of Swami Vivekananda. End your trip by witnessing the evening Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri.

• Chandi Devi Temple: Cable car ride - INR 100 per person, 3 hours
• Rajaji National Park: Safari - INR 500 per person, 4 hours
• Swami Vivekananda Park: Free Entry, 1 hour
• Har Ki Pauri: Free Entry, 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Haridwar and Rishikesh, don't miss the opportunity to visit Neer Garh Waterfall, a hidden gem located near Rishikesh. This enchanting waterfall offers a refreshing escape from the city and is perfect for a family picnic. Another local favorite is the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat in Rishikesh. This less-crowded ghat provides a more intimate and serene experience of the Ganga Aarti ceremony. Both these attractions are family-friendly and offer a chance to connect with nature and spirituality.

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