4-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary: Haridwar and Mussoorie

Saturday, October 7: Arrival in Haridwar

Start your trip by arriving in Haridwar, a holy city in Uttarakhand. In the morning, visit Har Ki Pauri, a famous ghat on the banks of the River Ganges. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, a spiritual ceremony that takes place in the evening. Explore the bustling streets of Haridwar in the afternoon, try local street food, and shop for souvenirs. Spend the evening at Chandi Devi Temple, situated on top of Neel Parvat, offering panoramic views of the city.

• Har Ki Pauri: Free, 2-3 hours
• Explore Haridwar: $15-$20 for food and shopping, 2-3 hours
• Chandi Devi Temple: $5 for cable car ride, 1-2 hours

Sunday, October 8: Haridwar Exploration

Start your morning with a visit to the Mansa Devi Temple, accessible via a cable car ride. Enjoy the serene surroundings and seek blessings. In the afternoon, head to the Rajaji National Park, located nearby, to indulge in wildlife safaris and spot various species of birds and animals. Spend the evening at the Bhimgoda Tank, a sacred water tank associated with Hindu mythology.

• Mansa Devi Temple: $5 for cable car ride, 2-3 hours
• Rajaji National Park: $20-$25 for entry and safari, 3-4 hours
• Bhimgoda Tank: Free, 1-2 hours

Monday, October 9: Journey to Mussoorie

Travel from Haridwar to Mussoorie, a picturesque hill station known as the "Queen of Hills." In the morning, visit the famous Kempty Falls and enjoy a refreshing dip in the cascading waters. Explore the Mall Road in the afternoon, known for its shops, restaurants, and scenic views. In the evening, take a cable car ride to Gun Hill, the second-highest peak in Mussoorie, to witness a breathtaking sunset.

• Kempty Falls: $5 for entry, 2-3 hours
• Explore Mall Road: $20-$30 for shopping and food, 2-3 hours
• Gun Hill Cable Car: $10 for round trip, 1-2 hours

Tuesday, October 10: Mussoorie Delights

Start your day with a visit to the Jharipani Falls, a serene waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a picnic amidst nature. In the afternoon, explore the enchanting landscapes of the Company Garden, featuring colorful flowers and a small lake. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along Camel's Back Road, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan range.

• Jharipani Falls: Free, 2-3 hours
• Company Garden: $5 for entry, 2-3 hours
• Camel's Back Road: Free, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the Sapt Rishi Ashram, located on the outskirts of Haridwar. This serene ashram is known for its spiritual ambiance and offers a peaceful retreat away from the crowds. Another hidden gem is Cloud's End in Mussoorie, a serene forest area where you can go for nature walks and enjoy the tranquility. Locals also recommend visiting Lal Tibba, the highest point in Mussoorie, offering panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks.

Check hotel and flight prices for Haridwar and Mussoorie on Kayak.