Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

Family-Friendly Itinerary: Haridwar, Rishikesh, Nainital

Sunday, October 1: Arrival and Evening in Haridwar

Welcome to Haridwar! Start your trip by checking into your hotel and freshening up. In the evening, head to Har Ki Pauri, the famous ghat along the Ganges River. Witness the grand Ganga Aarti ceremony, where holy rituals and fire offerings take place. Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance and take a dip in the holy waters.

  • Har Ki Pauri Ghat: Free, 2-3 hours
Monday, October 2: Haridwar Exploration

Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Mansa Devi Temple, located atop the Bilwa Parvat Hill. Take the scenic cable car ride to the temple and seek blessings. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant markets of Haridwar, known for their religious and cultural artifacts. Don't forget to taste the famous street food, such as aloo puri and jalebi, in the bustling bazaars.

  • Mansa Devi Temple: Free (cable car ride at an additional cost), 3-4 hours
  • Haridwar Markets: Costs vary, 2-3 hours
Tuesday, October 3: Rishikesh Excursion

Today, venture to the nearby spiritual city of Rishikesh. Start your day with a visit to the iconic Lakshman Jhula, a suspension bridge over the Ganges River. Explore the surrounding temples and ashrams before enjoying a peaceful riverside lunch. In the afternoon, experience an adventurous river rafting session on the Ganges. End the day with a mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

  • Lakshman Jhula: Free, 2-3 hours
  • River Rafting: Approx. INR 1,500 per person, 3-4 hours
  • Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free, 1 hour
Wednesday, October 4: Nainital Arrival and Relaxation

Leave Haridwar behind and embark on a scenic drive to Nainital. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the day relaxing amidst the serene surroundings. Take a leisurely boat ride on the beautiful Naini Lake and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Explore the Mall Road in the evening, lined with shops and restaurants offering local delicacies.

  • Boat Ride on Naini Lake: Approx. INR 200 for 30 minutes, 2-3 hours
  • Mall Road: Free, 2-3 hours
Thursday, October 5: Nainital Sightseeing

Explore the scenic beauty of Nainital today. Begin your day with a visit to the famous Naina Devi Temple, situated on the banks of Naini Lake. Take a pleasant walk to the Eco Cave Gardens, a natural park showcasing different animal-shaped caves. In the afternoon, enjoy panoramic views of Nainital from the Snow View Point and capture memorable photographs. End the day with a tranquil visit to the serene Tiffin Top.

  • Naina Devi Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Eco Cave Gardens: Approx. INR 60 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Snow View Point: Approx. INR 120 per person, 1-2 hours
  • Tiffin Top: Free, 1-2 hours
Friday, October 6: Nainital Adventure

Get ready for some adventure in Nainital. Start your day with a thrilling cable car ride to the Snow View Point for breathtaking views. Afterward, head to Pangot, a nearby village famous for birdwatching. Explore the lush trails and spot a variety of Himalayan bird species. In the evening, visit the High Altitude Zoo, home to rare wildlife species.

  • Cable Car Ride to Snow View Point: Approx. INR 150 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Birdwatching in Pangot: Free, 3-4 hours
  • High Altitude Zoo: Approx. INR 100 per person, 1-2 hours
Saturday, October 7: Departure and Haridwar Return

Say goodbye to Nainital and start your journey back to Haridwar. Upon arrival, you can spend the day exploring more of Haridwar's hidden gems, such as the Chandi Devi Temple or the ancient Maya Devi Temple. End your trip with a peaceful evening walk along the riverbank or shopping for souvenirs in Haridwar's markets.

  • Chandi Devi Temple: Free (cable car ride at an additional cost), 2-3 hours
  • Maya Devi Temple: Free, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique and family-friendly experience, consider visiting Neer Garh Waterfall near Rishikesh. It offers a refreshing escape into nature with cascading water, lush greenery, and the opportunity to enjoy a picnic. Another local favorite is Sattal, a group of seven interconnected freshwater lakes near Nainital. Enjoy serene boat rides, birdwatching, and peaceful walks around the lakes, away from the crowds.

Check hotel and flight prices on KAYAK.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version