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7-Day Itinerary: Haridwar, Rishikesh, Varanasi

Sunday, December 3: Arrival in Haridwar

Welcome to Haridwar! Start your trip by exploring the iconic Har Ki Pauri ghat in the morning. Witness the spectacular Ganga Aarti ceremony in the evening and feel the spiritual energy of the holy Ganges River.

  • Har Ki Pauri: Free, 2 hours
  • Ganga Aarti Ceremony: Free, 1 hour
Monday, December 4: Rishikesh Excursion

Head to Rishikesh, known as the Yoga Capital of the World, for a day trip. In the morning, visit the famous Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula, suspension bridges offering breathtaking views of the Ganges. Spend the afternoon exploring ashrams and participating in yoga or meditation classes.

  • Lakshman Jhula: Free, 1 hour
  • Ram Jhula: Free, 1 hour
  • Ashram Visit: Free or nominal charges, 2-3 hours
Tuesday, December 5: Haridwar Heritage

Discover the cultural and architectural heritage of Haridwar. Start your day with a visit to the ancient Mansa Devi Temple, accessible by a cable car ride. In the afternoon, explore the bustling markets of Haridwar, known for their spiritual and handicraft offerings.

  • Mansa Devi Temple: Cable car ride costs around INR 70 (approximately $1), 2 hours
  • Haridwar Markets: Free, 2 hours
Wednesday, December 6: Varanasi Arrival

Travel to Varanasi, one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. In the morning, take a boat ride along the Ganges to witness the sunrise and the mesmerizing ritual of offering prayers to the river. Spend the afternoon exploring the narrow alleys of the old city and visiting the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

  • Boat Ride on the Ganges: Around INR 200-300 (approximately $3-4), 2-3 hours
  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
Thursday, December 7: Varanasi Ghats

Experience the spirituality at the ghats of Varanasi. Start the day by visiting the Dashashwamedh Ghat and witnessing the grand Ganga Aarti ceremony. Spend the afternoon exploring other significant ghats like Manikarnika Ghat and Assi Ghat.

  • Dashashwamedh Ghat: Free, 1 hour
  • Manikarnika Ghat: Free, 1 hour
  • Assi Ghat: Free, 1 hour
Friday, December 8: Sarnath Excursion

Make a day trip to Sarnath, a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site. Explore the ancient ruins and visit the Dhamek Stupa and the Sarnath Museum to learn about the rich history and teachings of Buddhism. Return to Varanasi in the evening.

  • Dhamek Stupa: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Sarnath Museum: INR 5 (approximately $0.07), 1-2 hours
Saturday, December 9: Varanasi Farewell

On your last day, immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of Varanasi once again. Take a sunrise boat ride to soak in the serene ambiance and bid farewell to this ancient city. Spend the day exploring the local markets for souvenirs and cultural experiences.

  • Sunrise Boat Ride: Around INR 200-300 (approximately $3-4), 2-3 hours
  • Local Markets: As per personal expenses, 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For those seeking off the beaten path attractions and local favorites, consider visiting the Chandi Devi Temple in Haridwar for panoramic views, enjoying a peaceful walk along the Neelkanth Mahadev Waterfall near Rishikesh, or exploring the hidden alleys of Varanasi's old city to discover ancient temples and hidden tea shops.

Check here to find the best hotel and flight prices for your trip to Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Varanasi.

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