Exploring the Spiritual and Natural Wonders of Haridwar, Dehradun, Missouri, and Rishikesh

Friday October 13: Arrival and Haridwar

Begin your journey in the sacred city of Haridwar, known for its spiritual significance. In the morning, visit Har Ki Pauri, a famous ghat on the banks of the Ganges River, and witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. Afterward, explore the bustling markets of Haridwar, such as Bara Bazaar and Moti Bazaar, where you can shop for religious items and souvenirs. In the evening, take a boat ride on the Ganges and soak in the serene atmosphere.

• Har Ki Pauri: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Haridwar Markets: Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Ganges Boat Ride: Cost - 500 INR per person, Time Spent - 1 hour

Restaurants

• The Breakfast Club: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Breakfast Club, a cozy cafe offering a variety of breakfast options such as pancakes, omelettes, and healthy smoothie bowls. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
• Punjabi Junction: For a satisfying lunch, head to Punjabi Junction, a popular restaurant known for its authentic Punjabi cuisine. Enjoy mouthwatering dishes like butter chicken, naan, and chole bhature. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
• Ganga View Rooftop Restaurant: Indulge in a delightful dinner experience at Ganga View Rooftop Restaurant, where you can savor a wide range of Indian and continental dishes while enjoying spectacular views of the Ganges River. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.

Saturday October 14: Dehradun

On the second day, venture to Dehradun, a picturesque city nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. Start your morning with a visit to Robber's Cave, a natural cave formation where you can walk through a narrow gorge and witness a stunning waterfall. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Malsi Deer Park and enjoy a picnic amidst lush greenery. End the day by taking a cable car ride to the top of Mussoorie Hill, where you can admire panoramic views of Dehradun.

• Robber's Cave: Cost - 50 INR per person, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Malsi Deer Park: Cost - 10 INR per person, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Mussoorie Hill Cable Car: Cost - 300 INR per person, Time Spent - 2 hours

Restaurants

• Cafe Coffee Day: Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Cafe Coffee Day, located in the heart of Dehradun. They offer a variety of freshly brewed coffees, sandwiches, and pastries. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
• Big Wong: For a satisfying lunch, head to Big Wong, a popular Chinese restaurant in Dehradun. They serve delicious dishes like noodles, fried rice, and dumplings. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
• Moti Mahal Delux Tandoori Trail: Indulge in a flavorful dinner at Moti Mahal Delux Tandoori Trail, known for its authentic Indian cuisine. They offer a wide range of tandoori dishes, curries, and biryanis. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.

Sunday October 15: Missouri

Embark on a day trip to Missouri, a quaint hill station known for its natural beauty and tranquility. In the morning, visit Kempty Falls, where you can take a refreshing dip in the cascading waters. Afterward, explore the enchanting Company Garden, adorned with colorful flowers and a mini lake. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along Mall Road, lined with shops and restaurants offering local delicacies.

• Kempty Falls: Cost - 50 INR per person, Time Spent - 3 hours
• Company Garden: Cost - 50 INR per person, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Mall Road: Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2 hours

Monday October 16: Haridwar

Return to Haridwar to explore more of its spiritual offerings. Start your day by visiting Chandi Devi Temple, situated atop Neel Parvat, accessible via a cable car ride. Experience serenity at Sapt Rishi Ashram, a peaceful ashram located on the banks of the Ganges. In the evening, witness the Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram and seek blessings from the holy river.

• Chandi Devi Temple: Cost - 360 INR per person (including cable car), Time Spent - 3 hours
• Sapt Rishi Ashram: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Tuesday October 17: Rishikesh

Head to Rishikesh, the yoga capital of the world, for a day filled with spirituality and adventure. Start your morning with a visit to the iconic Lakshman Jhula, a suspension bridge over the Ganges River. Explore the famous Beatles Ashram, where the legendary band once stayed and meditated. In the afternoon, indulge in thrilling river rafting on the Ganges. End the day with a peaceful meditation session at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

• Lakshman Jhula: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Beatles Ashram: Cost - 150 INR per person, Time Spent - 2 hours
• River Rafting: Cost - 1000 INR per person, Time Spent - 3 hours
• Mediation at Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Wednesday October 18: Departure

Say goodbye to the serene beauty of Haridwar, Dehradun, Missouri, and Rishikesh as you depart for your next destination. Take this opportunity to explore any remaining attractions or enjoy a leisurely morning before heading to your onward journey.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While visiting Haridwar, don't miss the opportunity to visit the enchanting Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar, a bird sanctuary located on the banks of the Ganges. Here, you can spot a variety of migratory birds and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. In Dehradun, make sure to visit Mindrolling Monastery, one of the largest Buddhist centers in India, known for its intricate architecture and peaceful ambiance. Lastly, in Rishikesh, explore the lesser-known Kunjapuri Temple, situated atop a hill, and witness a breathtaking sunrise or sunset over the majestic Himalayas.

For hotel and flight bookings, check out Kayak for the best prices and options.