7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary: Haridwar & Rishikesh

Wednesday, March 13: Arrival in Haridwar

In the morning, arrive in Haridwar and check into your hotel. Start your trip with a visit to Har Ki Pauri, a famous ghat on the banks of the Ganges River. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony in the evening. Explore the vibrant markets of Haridwar and indulge in local street food.

• Har Ki Pauri: Free, 2 hours
• Ganga Aarti ceremony: Free, 1 hour
• Local street food: Approx. ₹500 ($7) per person

Thursday, March 14: Haridwar Exploration

Embark on a morning visit to Mansa Devi Temple, situated on the Bilwa Parvat hill. Take the cable car ride for panoramic views of Haridwar. In the afternoon, visit Chandi Devi Temple, located atop the Neel Parvat hill. Enjoy a boat ride on the Ganges River in the evening.

• Mansa Devi Temple: Approx. ₹200 ($3) per person, 3 hours
• Chandi Devi Temple: Approx. ₹200 ($3) per person, 3 hours
• Boat ride on the Ganges: Approx. ₹300 ($4) per person, 1 hour

Friday, March 15: Haridwar to Rishikesh

Check out from your hotel in Haridwar and travel to Rishikesh, a spiritual town located on the banks of the Ganges River. In the morning, visit the famous Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula, suspension bridges offering picturesque views. Spend the afternoon exploring the ashrams and temples in Rishikesh.

• Laxman Jhula: Free, 1 hour
• Ram Jhula: Free, 1 hour
• Ashram and temple visits: Free (donations welcome), 3 hours

Saturday, March 16: Yoga and Meditation in Rishikesh

Start your day with a yoga and meditation session at one of the renowned yoga centers in Rishikesh. Afterward, visit the Beatles Ashram, where the famous band once stayed. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful riverside walk and witness the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat.

• Yoga and meditation session: Approx. ₹500-1000 ($7-14) per person, 2 hours
• The Beatles Ashram: Approx. ₹150 ($2) per person, 2 hours
• Triveni Ghat: Free, 1 hour

Sunday, March 17: Adventure Activities in Rishikesh

Indulge in some thrilling adventure activities in Rishikesh. Start your day with a river rafting expedition on the Ganges River. In the afternoon, try your hand at cliff jumping and rappelling. End the day with a relaxing Ayurvedic massage at one of the wellness centers.

• River rafting: Approx. ₹1000-1500 ($14-21) per person, 4 hours
• Cliff jumping and rappelling: Approx. ₹500 ($7) per person, 2 hours
• Ayurvedic massage: Approx. ₹1000-2000 ($14-28) per person, 1 hour

Monday, March 18: Explore Neighboring Villages

Take a day trip to the nearby villages of Rishikesh. Visit the picturesque village of Kunjapuri and witness the sunrise over the Himalayas. Explore the local culture, interact with villagers, and enjoy a traditional meal. In the afternoon, visit the Vashishta Gufa, a cave known for its spiritual significance.

• Day trip to Kunjapuri: Approx. ₹1000 ($14) per person, 6 hours
• Vashishta Gufa: Free, 2 hours
• Traditional meal: Approx. ₹500 ($7) per person

Tuesday, March 19: Departure from Rishikesh

On your last day, take some time to relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of Rishikesh. Visit the Parmarth Niketan Ashram and participate in the morning yoga and meditation session. Bid farewell to Rishikesh and depart for your onward journey.

• Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free (donations welcome), 2 hours
• Departure from Rishikesh

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, explore the nearby Rajaji National Park, known for its diverse wildlife and jungle safaris. Take a family-friendly trek to Neer Garh Waterfall, where you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pools. Don't forget to try the local delicacies like Aloo Poori and Kachori at the street food stalls in Rishikesh.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.