Unforgettable Journey through the Hills of Uttarakhand
Friday, October 27: Dehradhun
Start your adventure in Dehradhun, the capital city of Uttarakhand. In the morning, visit Robber's Cave, a fascinating natural formation with a river mysteriously disappearing underground. Afterward, explore the beautiful Malsi Deer Park, home to various species of deer and birds. As the evening sets in, take a relaxing walk along the popular Rajpur Road, known for its bustling markets, eateries, and vibrant atmosphere.
Robber's Cave: Entry fee: INR 25, Time spent: 2 hours
Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Shiva's Cafe, a popular spot known for its delicious omelettes and refreshing beverages. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to Moti Mahal Deluxe, a renowned restaurant offering a wide range of Indian and Mughlai dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Savor a delectable dinner at Black Pepper Restaurant, known for its mouthwatering Chinese and Thai cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Saturday, October 28: Mussoorie
Embark on a scenic drive to Mussoorie, the "Queen of Hills." Start your morning with a visit to Kempty Falls, a mesmerizing waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy the panoramic views from Gun Hill, the second-highest peak in Mussoorie. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the famous Mall Road, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants offering stunning views of the valley.
Kempty Falls: Entry fee: INR 50, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Gun Hill: Cable car ride cost: INR 75, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Mall Road: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Head over to Cafe Ivy for a delectable breakfast experience with their wide variety of freshly baked goods and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Treat yourself to a flavorful lunch at JW Cafe, known for its extensive menu of Indian and international cuisines. Don't miss their signature butter chicken. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Indulge in an exquisite dinner at Urban Turban, a cozy rooftop restaurant offering a fusion of Indian and Continental dishes. The breathtaking view of the hills complements the delicious food. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, October 29: Rishikesh
Head to the spiritual town of Rishikesh, known as the "Yoga Capital of the World." Start your day with a serene visit to the iconic Parmarth Niketan Ashram, attending the morning Ganga Aarti (prayer ceremony) by the sacred Ganges River. In the afternoon, experience the thrill of river rafting in the Ganges. As the evening unfolds, explore the lively streets of Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula, two famous suspension bridges offering breathtaking views of the river and surrounding mountains.
Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
River Rafting: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A cozy cafe called Cafe Divine located near the Parmarth Niketan Ashram is an ideal spot for a hearty breakfast. Indulge in their delicious pancakes and fresh fruit bowls. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Chotiwala Restaurant in Rishikesh. This iconic restaurant offers a wide variety of Indian dishes, including thalis and tandoori specialties. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Craving a flavorful dinner? Visit the popular Pure Soul Restaurant situated near Laxman Jhula. This vegetarian restaurant serves a range of dishes, from pizzas to Indian curries. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Monday, October 30: Dhanaulti
Escape to the tranquil hills of Dhanaulti. Start your day with a visit to Eco Park, a beautiful park offering panoramic views of the Himalayas. Enjoy a picnic amidst nature and engage in adventurous activities like zip-lining and trekking. In the evening, explore the mesmerizing Surkanda Devi Temple, located at a height of 2,757 meters and surrounded by scenic vistas.
Eco Park: Entry fee: INR 25, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Adventure activities: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Surkanda Devi Temple: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A perfect place to kickstart your day, XYZ Cafe offers a delicious and hearty breakfast with a variety of options to choose from. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
When it's lunchtime, head over to ABC Restaurant for a mouthwatering meal. With their extensive menu offering both local and international dishes, you're sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
In the evening, experience a delightful dinner at PQR Fine Dining. This restaurant offers a sophisticated ambiance and a wide range of culinary delights. Indulge in their exquisite dishes and enjoy an unforgettable dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Tuesday, October 31: Nainital
Proceed to the enchanting hill station of Nainital, famous for its picturesque lakes and stunning views. Begin your day with a boat ride in the serene Naini Lake, surrounded by lush hills. Explore the vibrant Tibetan Market for unique handicrafts and souvenirs. In the evening, take a cable car ride to Snow View Point for breathtaking panoramas of the snow-capped Himalayas.
Tibetan Market: Cost varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Snow View Point: Cable car ride cost: INR 150, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast at Cafe Chica. This cozy cafe offers a wide range of breakfast options, from fluffy pancakes to hearty omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a delicious lunch, head to Machan Restaurant. With its rustic setting and stunning views of the hills, this restaurant serves mouthwatering Indian and Chinese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Indulge in a flavorful dinner at Chandani Chowk. Known for its authentic North Indian cuisine, this restaurant offers a variety of dishes including kebabs, biryanis, and curries. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Wednesday, November 1: Nainital
Continue exploring the beauty of Nainital. Begin your day with a visit to the serene Naina Devi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi. Take a peaceful walk along the promenade of Mall Road, indulging in delightful street food and shopping. In the evening, visit the enchanting Nainital Zoo, home to various Himalayan animal species.
Naina Devi Temple: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Mall Road: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Nainital Zoo: Entry fee: INR 50, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Giannis Pure Veg Restaurant. Enjoy their mouth-watering aloo paratha and masala chai. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a fulfilling lunch, head to Hotel Embassy. Their thali consisting of roti, sabzi, dal, rice, and salad is a must-try. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Indulge in a scrumptious dinner at Machan Restaurant. Delight in their speciality dishes like chicken tikka masala and butter naan. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Thursday, November 2: Return
Wrap up your memorable journey and return to your destination, cherishing the memories of the beautiful hill towns of Uttarakhand.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Rishikesh, make sure to visit the iconic Beatles Ashram, where the legendary band once stayed and composed songs. Explore the abandoned ashram, covered in magnificent graffiti art, and feel the musical vibes that still resonate within its walls. Additionally, don't miss the opportunity to try the local Garhwali cuisine, known for its flavorsome dishes like Kafuli, Bhang Ki Chutney, and Bal Mithai.