Start your trip in Dehradun, a scenic city nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. Visit the famous Robber's Cave, a natural cave formation with a river flowing through it. In the afternoon, explore the Mindrolling Monastery, a Buddhist temple known for its intricate murals and statues. Finish the day with a sunset view from the Tapkeshwar Temple.
Head to Rishikesh, the spiritual capital of India, and visit the Beatles Ashram where the famous band stayed in 1968. In the afternoon, take a dip in the holy Ganges river and attend the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony. End the day with a visit to the Triveni Ghat, a sacred bathing spot where three rivers converge.
Visit Haridwar, one of the seven most sacred places of Hinduism. Take a cable car ride to the Mansa Devi Temple and get a panoramic view of the city. In the afternoon, visit the Har Ki Pauri ghat, a holy place where pilgrims take a dip in the Ganges. End the day with a sound and light show at the Maya Devi Temple.
Take a helicopter ride to Kedarnath, one of the four sacred shrines in Hinduism's Char Dham Yatra. Visit the Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Himalayas. Spend the night in a tent or hotel and immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings.
Drive to Badrinath, another Char Dham Yatra site and a town located at an altitude of 10,170 ft. Visit the Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and enjoy the view of the Neelkanth peak. Take a dip in the Tapt Kund hot springs and visit the nearby Mana village, the last inhabited village before the India-China border.
Drive back to Haridwar and spend the day exploring the city's local markets and food stalls. Visit the Chandi Devi Temple, a popular pilgrimage site, and take a cable car ride to the hilltop temple. In the evening, attend the Ganga Aarti ceremony at the Har Ki Pauri ghat.
Return to Dehradun for your flight back home. Spend the morning at the Clock Tower, a historic landmark and shopping center. Visit the Forest Research Institute, a scenic campus with colonial architecture and a museum. End your trip with a meal at the famous Kalsang AMA Cafe, serving delicious Tibetan food.
Consider visiting the Rajaji National Park for a jungle safari near Dehradun. Take a side trip to Auli, a popular skiing destination, near Badrinath. To maximize your fun, try river rafting in Rishikesh or camping near Kedarnath. Don't forget to try local street food like aloo puri and kulhad chai.