Begin your Haridwar trip by taking a morning flight to Dehradun Airport. From there, hire a wheelchair-accessible taxi and make your way to Haridwar. Check-in at a family-friendly hotel and freshen up. In the afternoon, head to Har Ki Pauri Ghat, the most sacred bathing ghat along the holy Ganges River, and take a holy dip. In the evening, witness the grand Ganga Aarti ceremony, a spiritual ritual performed by priests with ghee-lamp-filled brass pots, at Har Ki Pauri.
Taxi from Dehradun Airport: ₹1,500 (estimated cost)
Har Ki Pauri Ghat: Free
Ganga Aarti Ceremony: Free
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Chotiwala Restaurant, a popular vegetarian eatery known for its delicious Indian breakfast options such as aloo paratha and masala dosa. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Hoshiyar Puri, a local favorite for its crispy and fluffy puris served with a variety of mouth-watering curries. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For dinner, try Haveli Hari Ganga, a beautiful restaurant offering a serene ambiance and an extensive menu of traditional Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Tuesday, October 17, 2023: Temples and Shopping
In the morning, visit the Mansa Devi Temple dedicated to Goddess Mansa, located atop the Bilwa Parvat hill. Enjoy the scenic cable car ride (ropeway) to reach the temple. Afterward, explore the famous Chandi Devi Temple, another revered Hindu shrine situated on the Neel Parvat hill. In the afternoon, head to the bustling markets of Haridwar, such as Bara Bazaar and Moti Bazaar, for some shopping. Indulge in local delicacies like aloo puri and jalebi from street food vendors.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Pandit Ji Poori Wale, known for their fluffy and crispy pooris served with aloo sabzi. A typical meal here costs around 100 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Hoshiyar Puri for a mouthwatering thali filled with a variety of vegetarian dishes. The average cost for a meal at this restaurant is approximately 200 INR per person.
End your day with a delectable dinner at Big Ben Restaurant, offering a diverse menu of Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines. The average cost for a dinner here is around 400 INR per person.
Wednesday, October 18, 2023: Rishikesh Excursion
Embark on a day trip to the nearby spiritual town of Rishikesh, known as the "Yoga Capital of the World." In the morning, visit the iconic Shri Triveni Ghat, where the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers confluence. Attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram in the evening. Explore the famous Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula suspension bridges, and enjoy the serene atmosphere of Rishikesh.
Taxi to Rishikesh: ₹2,500 (estimated cost), 1-hour drive each way
Shri Triveni Ghat: Free
Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free
Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula: Free
Restaurants
Head to Choti Wala restaurant for a traditional Indian breakfast. Known for its delicious aloo puri and samosas, the average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit The Sitting Elephant. This vegetarian restaurant offers a variety of dishes including thali platters and South Indian delicacies. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a delightful dinner, try The Sitting Elephant Rooftop Restaurant. Enjoy the beautiful view of the Ganges while indulging in their savory North Indian and Chinese dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Thursday, October 19, 2023: Wildlife Safari and River Rafting
Embark on an adventurous day trip to Rajaji National Park, known for its diverse flora and fauna. Enjoy a thrilling wildlife safari in the morning. Afterward, make your way to Shivpuri, a popular spot for river rafting on the Ganges. Experience the adrenaline rush as you navigate the exciting rapids. Spend the rest of the day exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Private Wildlife Safari in Rajaji National Park: ₹3,500 (estimated cost), 2-3 hours
River Rafting in Shivpuri: ₹1,500 (estimated cost), 4-5 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Gangaur Sweets and Restaurant, offering a wide range of Indian breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Hoshiyarpuri, a popular restaurant known for its delicious Punjabi cuisine. Enjoy their mouthwatering thali meals. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Indulge in a scrumptious dinner at Chotiwaala, a renowned restaurant offering a variety of authentic Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Friday, October 20, 2023: Spiritual Retreat and Adventure Park
In the morning, visit the iconic Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Seek blessings in its peaceful ambience. Later, head to the nearby Fun Valley Adventure Park for a day of thrilling rides and exciting activities suitable for all ages. Enjoy the water slides, roller coasters, and various other attractions. Spend the evening relaxing at your hotel.
Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple: Free
Fun Valley Adventure Park: ₹1,200 (estimated cost), 4-5 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Sati. This cozy eatery offers a variety of breakfast options ranging from traditional Indian dishes to continental favorites. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to The Grand Buffet. This family-friendly restaurant serves a delectable array of Indian and international cuisines in a spacious and vibrant setting. The buffet lunch here is a great option for families with different food preferences. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
In the evening, indulge in a delightful dinner at Spice Garden Restaurant. This restaurant specializes in authentic North Indian dishes and offers a charming garden ambiance. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Saturday, October 21, 2023: Yoga and Ayurvedic Wellness
Indulge in a rejuvenating day of yoga and Ayurvedic wellness. Join a yoga session or meditation class at one of the esteemed yoga centers in Haridwar, such as Patanjali Yogpeeth or Shantikunj. Learn about holistic healing practices, herbal remedies, and experience the blissful benefits of these ancient traditions. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Ayurvedic massage to unwind and relax.
Yoga Session or Meditation Class: Charges may vary, 2-3 hours
Ayurvedic Massage: Charges may vary, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its extensive menu and cozy ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Savor a delightful lunch at Hoshiyar Puri, a popular vegetarian restaurant offering a variety of North Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit Big Ben Restaurant, known for its rooftop dining area and mouthwatering Indian and Chinese cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Sunday, October 22, 2023: Departure
On your last day, bid farewell to Haridwar. Check out from your hotel and make your way back to Dehradun Airport. Reflect on the wonderful memories and spiritual experiences you had during your trip to this holy city.
When visiting Haridwar, don't miss the opportunity to explore Neergarh Waterfall, located in the outskirts of the city. This picturesque waterfall is a hidden gem and offers a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. Additionally, locals love strolling along the beautiful river promenade near Birla Ghat during early mornings and evenings, enjoying the fresh air and stunning views of the Ganges River.