Start your trip by arriving in Haridwar in the evening. Spend the evening exploring Har Ki Pauri, the most famous ghat in Haridwar. Take part in the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony, where you can witness the mesmerizing ritual of worshiping the holy river Ganges. Enjoy the spiritual ambience and the beautiful view of the lit lamps floating on the river. Afterward, you can savor some local street food in the bustling market area near Har Ki Pauri.
Har Ki Pauri: Free entry, approximate time spent 1-2 hours
Street Food: Budget-friendly, approximate cost INR 100-200
Restaurants
Breakfast: Head to Chotiwala Restaurant for a delicious and fulfilling breakfast. Known for its wide variety of vegetarian dishes, the average cost for a meal here is about 150 INR per person.
Lunch: Enjoy a scrumptious meal at Petticoat Lane - a popular rooftop restaurant offering a mix of Indian and international cuisines. The average cost for a meal here is around 500 INR per person.
Dinner: For a memorable dinner experience, visit Haveli Hari Ganga Restaurant located by the holy Ganges river. Indulge in authentic Indian cuisine while enjoying the serene ambiance. The average cost for a meal here is approximately 800 INR per person.
Saturday, September 30: Rishikesh Exploration
On the second day, head to Rishikesh, which is about 20 kilometers from Haridwar. Start your morning with a visit to the iconic Lakshman Jhula, a suspension bridge over the river Ganges. Enjoy the serene views of the river and the surrounding hills. In the afternoon, visit the spiritual hub of Rishikesh, Parmarth Niketan Ashram. Take part in a yoga or meditation session and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. In the evening, witness the famous Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Ghat, where priests offer prayers to the river Ganges.
Lakshman Jhula: Free entry, approximate time spent 1-2 hours
Parmarth Ghat: Free entry, approximate time spent 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, visit the famous Chotiwala restaurant in Rishikesh. Indulge in their delicious traditional Indian breakfast options such as poori bhaji and masala dosa. A typical meal here costs around 150 INR per person.
Head to The Sitting Elephant for a satisfying lunch in Rishikesh. This vegetarian restaurant offers a variety of cuisines including Indian, Italian, and Thai. Enjoy their flavorful dishes like paneer tikka and pad thai noodles. Expect to spend around 300 INR per person for a meal.
In the evening, dine at the popular Café Nirvana in Rishikesh. This rooftop restaurant offers stunning views of the Ganges and serves a diverse menu including Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. Treat yourself to their mouthwatering biryani or pizza. The average cost for a meal here is approximately 500 INR per person.
Sunday, October 1: Haridwar Sightseeing
As your trip comes to an end, spend your last morning in Haridwar exploring the spiritual sites. Visit the Mansa Devi Temple, located on top of the Bilwa Parvat hill. Take a cable car ride to the temple and enjoy panoramic views of Haridwar. Afterward, visit the Chandi Devi Temple, situated on the Neel Parvat hill. In the evening, you can explore the local markets for handicrafts and religious items.
Mansa Devi Temple: Cable car ticket cost INR 170 per person, approximate time spent 2-3 hours
Chandi Devi Temple: Cable car ticket cost INR 170 per person, approximate time spent 2-3 hours
Local Markets: Budget-friendly, cost varies, approximate time spent 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While in Haridwar, don't miss the opportunity to visit Rajaji National Park, which is about 20 kilometers from the city. This national park is home to various wildlife species, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and many more. You can take a Jeep safari to explore the park and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Another hidden gem is the Shanti Kunj Ashram, known for its spiritual teachings and serene gardens. Spend some time meditating or simply enjoying the tranquility here.
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