7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary: Dehradun, Mussoorie, and Haridwar

Thursday, October 12:

Begin your adventure in Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand. In the morning, visit the picturesque Robber's Cave, known for its natural caves and refreshing streams. Spend the afternoon exploring Mindrolling Monastery, one of the largest Buddhist centers in India. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll at Rajaji National Park, spotting wildlife and enjoying the serene surroundings.

• Robber's Cave: Entry is free, estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Mindrolling Monastery: Entry fee of INR 50 per person, estimated time spent 1-2 hours
• Rajaji National Park: Entry fee of INR 150 per person, estimated time spent 2-3 hours

Friday, October 13:

Embark on a scenic drive to the hill station of Mussoorie. Begin your day with a visit to the famous Kempty Falls, where you can take a refreshing dip in the cascading water. Afterward, explore the bustling Mall Road, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. As the sun sets, head to Gun Hill, the second-highest peak in Mussoorie, for breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

• Kempty Falls: Entry fee of INR 50 per person, estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Mall Road: No entry fee, estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Gun Hill: Cable car ride fee of INR 100 per person, estimated time spent 1-2 hours

Saturday, October 14:

Continue your exploration of Mussoorie by visiting the enchanting Company Garden, famous for its beautiful flowers, artificial lake, and amusement park. Spend the afternoon admiring the architectural marvel of the Library Bazaar, housing a wide collection of books. In the evening, enjoy a memorable boat ride at Mussoorie Lake, surrounded by lush green hills.

• Company Garden: Entry fee of INR 25 per person, estimated time spent 1-2 hours
• Library Bazaar: No entry fee, estimated time spent 1-2 hours
• Mussoorie Lake: Boat ride fee of INR 400 (approx.) for a family, estimated time spent 1-2 hours

Sunday, October 15:

Head to Haridwar, a spiritual city located on the banks of the River Ganges. Start your day with a visit to Har Ki Pauri, a holy ghat where the famous Ganga Aarti takes place in the evening. Explore the vibrant streets of Haridwar, filled with shops selling religious items and delightful street food. In the afternoon, take a cable car ride to the hilltop Mansa Devi Temple for panoramic views of the city.

• Har Ki Pauri: No entry fee, estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Exploring Haridwar streets: Costs vary, estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Mansa Devi Temple: Cable car ride fee of INR 110 per person (approx.), estimated time spent 2-3 hours

Monday, October 16:

Discover the spiritual side of Haridwar by visiting the Chandi Devi Temple, located atop the Neel Parvat. Afterward, immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of the Daksheswara Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. In the afternoon, enjoy a serene boat ride on the River Ganges, taking in the scenic beauty and serene atmosphere.

• Chandi Devi Temple: Cable car ride fee of INR 178 per person (approx.), estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Daksheswara Mahadev Temple: No entry fee, estimated time spent 1-2 hours
• Boat ride on River Ganges: Costs vary, estimated time spent 1-2 hours

Tuesday, October 17:

Take a leisurely drive back to Dehradun and get closer to nature at Malsi Deer Park, a picturesque wildlife sanctuary home to various species of deer. In the afternoon, visit the famous Forest Research Institute, known for its colonial architecture and lush gardens. Spend the evening exploring the vibrant Tibetan Market, renowned for its handicrafts and Tibetan cuisine.

• Malsi Deer Park: Entry fee of INR 20 per person, estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Forest Research Institute: Entry fee of INR 20 per person, estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Tibetan Market: Costs vary, estimated time spent 2-3 hours

Wednesday, October 18:

Wrap up your trip with a visit to the famous Tapkeshwar Temple, nestled in a natural cave and dedicated to Lord Shiva. Spend the afternoon exploring the sprawling campus of the Indian Military Academy and learning about the history and training of the Indian Army. In the evening, indulge in some retail therapy at the vibrant Paltan Bazaar, known for its handicrafts, clothing, and street food.

• Tapkeshwar Temple: No entry fee, estimated time spent 1-2 hours
• Indian Military Academy: No entry fee (prior permission required), estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Paltan Bazaar: Costs vary, estimated time spent 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites:

While visiting Dehradun, don't miss the chance to explore the picturesque Robber's Cave. This hidden gem offers a unique experience of walking through the narrow caves with water gushing alongside. Another local favorite is the Forest Research Institute, which not only showcases the rich flora and fauna of the region but also offers peaceful walks in its enchanting surroundings.