Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary for Haridwar, Dehradun, Delhi, Vrindavan, Mathura, and Agra

Saturday, May 11: Haridwar

In the morning, visit Har Ki Pauri, the famous ghat on the banks of the Ganges River. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony in the evening. Explore the local markets for traditional handicrafts and religious items.

• Har Ki Pauri: Free, 2 hours
• Local Markets: Cost varies, 2 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its delicious vegetarian dishes and famous for its special Chotiwala Dosa. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
• If you're looking for a filling lunch, try Hoshiyar Puri. They serve authentic North Indian cuisine with a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
• For dinner, visit Hariyaali Restaurant located near Har Ki Pauri. This rooftop restaurant offers a breathtaking view of the Ganges River and serves a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.

Sunday, May 12: Dehradun

In the morning, visit Robber's Cave, a scenic spot known for its natural caves and waterfalls. Explore the Tapkeshwar Temple in the afternoon, nestled in the midst of a forest. Enjoy a leisurely evening at the Rajaji National Park, famous for its wildlife and birdwatching opportunities.

• Robber's Cave: Free, 3 hours
• Tapkeshwar Temple: Free, 1 hour
• Rajaji National Park: Cost varies, 2 hours

Monday, May 13: Delhi

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the bustling markets of Chandni Chowk for shopping and street food in the afternoon. Spend the evening at India Gate, a war memorial and a popular picnic spot.

• Red Fort: Cost varies, 2 hours
• Chandni Chowk: Cost varies, 3 hours
• India Gate: Free, 2 hours

Tuesday, May 14: Vrindavan

Visit the famous Banke Bihari Temple in the morning, known for its unique architecture and spiritual significance. Explore the Prem Mandir, a beautiful temple complex, in the afternoon. Enjoy an evening boat ride on Yamuna River and witness the mesmerizing aarti at Keshi Ghat.

• Banke Bihari Temple: Free, 2 hours
• Prem Mandir: Free, 2 hours
• Boat Ride and Keshi Ghat: Cost varies, 2 hours

Wednesday, May 15: Mathura

Start your day by visiting the Shri Krishna Janmasthan Temple, the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Explore the Dwarkadhish Temple, known for its stunning architecture. In the evening, immerse yourself in the colorful celebrations and lively atmosphere of the Holi Gate.

• Shri Krishna Janmasthan Temple: Free, 2 hours
• Dwarkadhish Temple: Free, 1 hour
• Holi Gate: Free, 2 hours

Thursday, May 16: Agra

Begin your day with a visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Explore the Agra Fort in the afternoon, a UNESCO World Heritage site. End your day by watching the sunset at Mehtab Bagh, a beautiful garden offering stunning views of the Taj Mahal.

• Taj Mahal: Cost varies, 3 hours
• Agra Fort: Cost varies, 2 hours
• Mehtab Bagh: Cost varies, 1 hour

Friday, May 17: Haridwar

Return to Haridwar for a final day of relaxation. Spend the day exploring the Ashrams and temples along the river banks. Take a dip in the holy Ganges and witness the evening Ganga Aarti at other prominent ghats. Reflect on the spiritual journey you have experienced during your visit.

• Ashrams and Temples: Free, 4 hours
• Holy Dip and Ganga Aarti: Free, 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique local experience, visit Neelkanth Mahadev Temple near Rishikesh. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is surrounded by lush greenery. Another hidden gem is the Mindrolling Monastery in Dehradun, offering a serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture. Families can also enjoy a day at Worlds of Wonder amusement park in Noida, near Delhi, with thrilling rides and water attractions.

For hotel and flight prices, check out kayak.com.