5-Day North India Adventure

Friday, October 20: Haridwar

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of Haridwar. In the morning, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony on the banks of the holy Ganges River. Afternoon can be spent exploring the iconic Har Ki Pauri ghat and taking a dip in the sacred waters. In the evening, visit the bustling markets and try some local street food.

• Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri: Witness the divine ceremony - Free, 1 hour
• Har Ki Pauri: Experience the holy dip - Free, 2 hours
• Local markets: Indulge in street food - Budget-friendly, 2 hours

Saturday, October 21: Delhi

Spend the morning exploring the iconic historical sites of Delhi. Start with the majestic Red Fort, followed by a visit to Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque. In the afternoon, explore the bustling markets of Chandni Chowk and indulge in some shopping. As the evening sets in, enjoy a rickshaw ride through the vibrant streets of Old Delhi.

• Red Fort: Immerse in history - INR 500 ($7), 2 hours
• Jama Masjid: Witness architectural marvel - Free, 1 hour
• Chandni Chowk: Shop till you drop - Budget-friendly, 3 hours
• Rickshaw ride in Old Delhi: Explore the narrow lanes - INR 300 ($4), 1 hour

Sunday, October 22: Agra

Begin your day with a visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Marvel at the beauty of this iconic mausoleum as the sun rises. In the afternoon, explore Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. As the evening approaches, wander through the local markets and try some delicious Mughlai cuisine.

• Taj Mahal: Witness the epitome of love - INR 1400 ($19), 3 hours
• Agra Fort: Explore Mughal architecture - INR 600 ($8), 2 hours
• Local markets: Indulge in Mughlai cuisine - Budget-friendly, 2 hours

Monday, October 23: Rishikesh

Visit the spiritual town of Rishikesh, known as the Yoga Capital of the World. Start your day with a yoga or meditation session by the banks of the Ganges. In the afternoon, explore the famous Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula suspension bridges. As the evening sets in, attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

• Yoga/Meditation session: Connect with your inner self - INR 300 ($4), 2 hours
• Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula: Explore the iconic suspension bridges - Free, 3 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Embrace the divine - Free, 1 hour

Tuesday, October 24: Mussoorie and Mathura

Spend your morning exploring the hill station of Mussoorie, known for its panoramic views. Visit Kempty Falls and enjoy a refreshing dip in the cascading waters. In the afternoon, depart for Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Explore the Krishna Janmabhoomi temple complex and experience the vibrant festivities. End your day with some delicious local sweets.

• Kempty Falls: Enjoy the natural beauty - INR 100 ($1.5), 2 hours
• Krishna Janmabhoomi: Seek blessings of Lord Krishna - Free, 2 hours
• Local sweets: Indulge in Mathura's delicacies - Budget-friendly, 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Haridwar, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Chandi Devi Temple. Take the cable car ride to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the city. In Delhi, explore the offbeat Hauz Khas Village, known for its trendy cafes and art galleries. In Agra, visit the lesser-known Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, also known as the Baby Taj. And in Rishikesh, venture deeper into the spiritual side by visiting the ashrams of Swami Sivananda and Swami Dayananda Saraswati.

For more information and to check hotel and flight prices, click here.