Exploring the Best of Uttarakhand: A 7-Day Itinerary
Wednesday, October 25: Arrival in Dehradun
Welcome to Uttarakhand! Begin your journey in Dehradun, the capital city. In the morning, explore Robber's Cave, a fascinating natural cave with a stream flowing inside. Afterward, visit the beautiful Tapkeshwar Temple, nestled amidst the hills. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll in Rajaji National Park, famous for its wildlife.
Head to the enchanting hill station of Mussoorie for breathtaking vistas. Start your morning with a visit to Kempty Falls, where you can take a refreshing dip. Afterward, explore Lal Tibba, the highest point in Mussoorie, for panoramic views of the Himalayas. In the evening, explore Mall Road, Mussoorie's bustling shopping and dining hub.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Brick Kitchen, a cozy restaurant in Mussoorie. Indulge in their fluffy pancakes and a cup of freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Kalsang Friends Corner, a popular Tibetan restaurant in Mussoorie. Try their momos and thukpa, traditional Tibetan dishes, and enjoy the cozy ambiance. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Casa Mia, a charming Italian restaurant in Mussoorie. Delight in their authentic wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Friday, October 27: Rishikesh Spiritual Journey
Embark on a spiritual day in Rishikesh, known as the Yoga Capital of the World. In the morning, attend a yoga session overlooking the Ganges River. Afterward, visit the famous Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula suspension bridges. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony by the riverbank.
Yoga Session: Price varies, Duration - 2 hours
Ram Jhula: Free entry, Duration - 1 hour
Laxman Jhula: Free entry, Duration - 1 hour
Ganga Aarti: Free entry, Duration - 1 hour
Restaurants
The Beatles Cafe is a cozy breakfast spot located near Ram Jhula. They offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, including avocado toast and fresh fruit smoothies. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about 200 INR per person.
The Sitting Elephant is a popular lunch spot in Rishikesh, known for its delicious Indian and international cuisine. Their menu includes dishes like butter chicken, pad Thai, and wood-fired pizzas. The average cost for a lunch meal is about 500 INR per person.
At Chotiwala, you can enjoy a traditional Indian dinner with a beautiful view of the Ganges River. They specialize in North Indian vegetarian dishes like paneer tikka and dal makhani. The average cost for a dinner meal is about 300 INR per person.
Saturday, October 28: Nainital Lake District
Visit the picturesque Nainital, a charming hill town known for its pristine lakes. Start your morning with a boat ride on the famous Naini Lake, surrounded by lush greenery. Afterward, explore the Naina Devi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Naina. Enjoy the evening at the vibrant Mall Road, lined with shops and eateries.
Naini Lake Boat Ride: Price varies, Duration - 2 hours
Naina Devi Temple: Free entry, Duration - 1 hour
Mall Road: Free entry, Duration - 2 hours
Sunday, October 29: Jim Corbett National Park Safari
Embark on an adventurous day in Jim Corbett National Park, India's oldest national park. Begin your morning with an exhilarating jeep safari, spotting majestic tigers and other wildlife. Afterward, visit the breathtaking Corbett Falls. In the evening, enjoy a wildlife movie screening at the park's visitor center.
Head to the picturesque town of Auli, famous for its skiing slopes. Start your morning with a thrilling skiing session on the snow-covered slopes. Afterward, take a cable car ride to enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas. In the evening, explore the charming local markets and savor delicious local cuisines.
Skiing Session: Price varies, Duration - 3 hours
Cable Car Ride: Price varies, Duration - 2 hours
Local Markets: Prices vary, Duration - 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to XYZ Cafe located in the heart of Auli. This cozy cafe offers a variety of freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal at this cafe is about INR 200 per person.
For lunch, visit ABC Restaurant which is known for its authentic Uttarakhandi cuisine. Indulge in mouthwatering dishes like Kumaoni dal, bhatt ki churkani, and gahat ke parathe. Average cost for a meal at this restaurant is about INR 400 per person.
For dinner, don't miss out on DEF Dhaba, a popular local eatery known for its delicious North Indian fare. Feast on their lip-smacking tandoori dishes and butter chicken. Average cost for a meal at this dhaba is about INR 300 per person.
Tuesday, October 31: Haridwar Pilgrimage
Conclude your Uttarakhand journey with a trip to the holy city of Haridwar. Start your morning by taking a dip in the sacred Ganges River at Har Ki Pauri. Afterward, visit the Mansa Devi Temple, perched on a hilltop. In the evening, witness the divine Ganga Aarti ceremony at Har Ki Pauri.
For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting Pithoragarh, a serene hill station nestled in the Himalayas. Explore Chopta, known as the "Mini Switzerland" of India, offering breathtaking views and trekking opportunities. Locals also love the ancient city of Almora, known for its rich cultural heritage and wildlife encounters at Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary.
For hotel and flight bookings, check out Kayak to find the best deals and prices.