Arrive in Uttarakhand and settle into your hotel. Start your adventure with a visit to the iconic Nainital Lake in the morning. Enjoy a boat ride and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Mall Road, lined with shops and local eateries. As the evening sets in, head to Tiffin Top for a panoramic sunset view of the town.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Chica, located near the Nainital Lake. Indulge in their delicious pancakes and omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For lunch, head over to Machan Restaurant, known for its North Indian cuisine and stunning views of the mountains. Try their mouthwatering biryanis and tandoori dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹700 per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at The Pavilion, a rooftop restaurant offering a wide range of international dishes. Enjoy the serene ambiance and the breathtaking view of the city lights. Average cost for a meal is about ₹1000 per person.
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the charming Cafe Ivy. This cozy cafe offers a variety of delicious options, from classic pancakes to healthy avocado toast. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
For lunch, head to Urban Turban, a popular restaurant known for its fusion of Indian and international flavors. Try their signature Butter Chicken Pizza or indulge in a flavorful Biryani. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to an unforgettable dinner at The Pavilion. This fine dining restaurant offers a luxurious ambiance and a diverse menu featuring dishes from around the world. Don't miss their mouthwatering seafood platter. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 1000 per person.
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Rishikesh is Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its delicious Indian breakfast dishes such as Puri Bhaji and Aloo Paratha. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
If you're looking for a lunch spot, try the Little Buddha Cafe which offers a wide range of international cuisines including Italian and Israeli dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, head to The Sitting Elephant, a rooftop restaurant offering a picturesque view of the Ganges River. Indulge in their mouthwatering Indian and Chinese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Thursday, May 2: Corbett National Park
Embark on an early morning safari at Corbett National Park, known for its rich wildlife. Experience the thrill of spotting tigers, elephants, and various bird species. In the afternoon, visit the Garjiya Devi Temple, located on the banks of the Kosi River. Enjoy serene views and seek blessings at this popular pilgrimage site. Spend the evening relaxing at your hotel or exploring nearby local markets.
Corbett National Park Safari: Estimated cost - INR 4000 per jeep (up to 6 people), Time spent - 4 hours
Head to Rishikesh, the yoga capital of the world. Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Lakshman Jhula, a suspension bridge across the Ganges River. Explore the ashrams and temples in the area and witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti in the evening. For adventure enthusiasts, indulge in river rafting or try bungee jumping at Jumpin Heights.
Ganga Aarti: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
River Rafting/Bungee Jumping: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Saturday, May 4: Mussoorie
Visit the picturesque hill station of Mussoorie. Begin your day with a cable car ride to Gun Hill, offering stunning views of the Himalayan range. Explore the vibrant Mall Road and indulge in local delicacies. In the afternoon, visit Kempty Falls, where you can take a refreshing dip in the cascading waters. Enjoy a leisurely evening stroll at Landour Bazaar and try the famous wood-fired pizzas at Lovely Omelette Center.
Gun Hill: Estimated cost - INR 75 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Kempty Falls: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Embark on a scenic drive to Auli, a popular skiing destination. Spend your morning exploring the picturesque surroundings and enjoy the cable car ride to Auli Lake. Take in the breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains. In the afternoon, go for a thrilling trek to Gurso Bugyal, known for its lush meadows. End the day with a bonfire and stargazing experience at your hotel.
Auli Lake: Estimated cost - INR 700 per person (cable car ride), Time spent - 2 hours
Visit the Jim Corbett Museum in Kaladhungi, showcasing the life and achievements of the renowned conservationist. Gain insights into wildlife conservation efforts. In the afternoon, trek to Naini Peak, the highest point in Nainital, for panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Enjoy boating on the Nainital Lake in the evening.
Jim Corbett Museum: Estimated cost - INR 30 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Nainital Lake Boating: Estimated cost - INR 210 per boat (30 minutes), Time spent - 1 hour
Tuesday, May 7: Haridwar
Conclude your trip with a visit to the holy city of Haridwar. Attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, a sacred ghat on the banks of the Ganges. Explore the bustling markets and visit the famous Mansa Devi Temple via the scenic cable car ride. In the evening, witness the surreal beauty of the floating diyas during the Ganga Aarti.
Har Ki Pauri: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Mansa Devi Temple: Estimated cost - INR 120 per person (cable car ride), Time spent - 2 hours
Ganga Aarti: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
When in Uttarakhand, don't miss out on exploring the hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the peaceful hill station of Lansdowne, known for its pleasant weather and colonial architecture. Explore the offbeat village of Kanatal and indulge in adventure activities like camping, trekking, and paragliding. For nature lovers, a visit to Valley of Flowers National Park is a must, showcasing a myriad of colorful blooms. Experience the charm of local cuisines like Kumaoni dishes and Garhwali thalis, offering a unique gastronomic experience.