7-Day Itinerary: Haridwar Yamunotri Kedarnath Rishikesh

Thursday, October 5: Haridwar

Start your trip by visiting Haridwar, a holy city on the banks of the Ganges River. In the morning, take a dip in the sacred Ganges at Har Ki Pauri ghat. Witness the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony in the evening at Har Ki Pauri, where priests offer prayers and light lamps. Explore the bustling streets of Haridwar, known for its colorful markets and delectable street food.

• Har Ki Pauri Ghat: Free, 2-3 hours
• Ganga Aarti Ceremony: Free, 1 hour
• Street Food and Markets: Budget varies, 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For a delicious breakfast in Haridwar, head to Chotiwala Restaurant. Known for its traditional Indian breakfast dishes like poha and pav bhaji, the average cost for a meal here is about 150 INR per person.
• When it's time for lunch, make your way to Hoshiyarpuri Restaurant. This restaurant offers a wide range of Punjabi and North Indian dishes, including butter chicken and dal makhani. The average cost for a meal here is about 300 INR per person.
• For a delightful dinner experience, visit Big Ben's Restaurant and Cafe. This rooftop restaurant offers a stunning view of the Ganges River and serves a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. The average cost for a meal here is about 600 INR per person.

Friday, October 6: Yamunotri

Embark on a journey to Yamunotri, the source of the Yamuna River. Morning travel from Haridwar to Janki Chatti. After reaching Janki Chatti, start the trek to Yamunotri temple, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. Enjoy the serene surroundings and take a dip in the hot water springs at Janki Chatti. Return to Janki Chatti in the evening and travel back to Haridwar.

• Trek to Yamunotri Temple: Moderate cost for transport, 6-8 hours
• Dip in Hot Water Springs: Free, 1-2 hours

Saturday, October 7: Kedarnath

Visit Kedarnath, one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Morning travel from Haridwar to Gaurikund. Trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath temple, located amidst the majestic Himalayas. Seek blessings at the temple and explore the scenic beauty of the region. Return to Gaurikund in the evening and travel back to Haridwar.

• Trek to Kedarnath Temple: Moderate cost for transport, 8-10 hours
• Temple Visit and Scenic Exploration: Free, 2-3 hours

Sunday, October 8: Rishikesh

Explore the spiritual town of Rishikesh, also known as the "Yoga Capital of the World". In the morning, visit the iconic Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula, suspension bridges over the Ganges. Attend a yoga or meditation session in one of the ashrams. Enjoy a peaceful sunset Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

• Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula: Free, 2-3 hours
• Yoga or Meditation Session: Budget varies, 1-2 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free, 1 hour

Monday, October 9: Rishikesh

Continue exploring Rishikesh by engaging in adventurous activities. Start your day with a thrilling river rafting experience on the Ganges. Visit the famous Beatles Ashram, where the band stayed in the 1960s. Relax on the banks of the Ganges and explore the local markets in the evening.

• River Rafting: Moderate cost, 2-3 hours
• Beatles Ashram: Entry fee, 1-2 hours
• Relaxation by the Ganges and Local Market Exploration: Budget varies, 2-3 hours

Tuesday, October 10: Haridwar

Return to Haridwar for a final day of exploration. Visit the Mansa Devi temple, located atop Bilwa Parvat, by taking a cable car ride. Explore the spiritual vibes of Chandi Devi temple, perched on Neel Parvat. Witness the evening Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri for a divine experience.

• Mansa Devi Temple: Cable car fee, 2-3 hours
• Chandi Devi Temple: Cable car fee, 2-3 hours
• Evening Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri: Free, 1 hour

Wednesday, October 11: Departure

End your trip and bid farewell to Haridwar with beautiful memories. Check out the hotel and flight prices for your future travel plans.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Rishikesh, don't miss visiting the Neer Garh Waterfall, a picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Experience the tranquility of the Vashishta Gufa, a cave where sage Vashishta is said to have meditated. Devote some time at the Bharat Mandir, one of the oldest temples in the region, known for its historical significance and vibrant festivals.