7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Uttarakhand

Monday, December 25: Arrival in Uttarakhand

Start your family-friendly adventure in Uttarakhand by arriving at your chosen destination. Take the day to settle into your accommodation and explore the local surroundings. Check Kayak for hotel and flight prices.

Tuesday, December 26: Nainital

Morning: Begin your day with a boat ride on the picturesque Naini Lake, surrounded by lush green hills.

Afternoon: Explore the Nainital Zoo, home to various Himalayan wildlife species, including snow leopards and Himalayan black bears.

Evening: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Mall Road, lined with shops selling local handicrafts and delicious street food.

• Naini Lake: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Nainital Zoo: Cost: INR 100 (approx.), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Mall Road: Cost: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot in Nainital is Cafe Lake View, offering stunning views of Naini Lake. They serve delicious continental and Indian breakfast dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹300 per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, head to Machaan Restaurant which offers a variety of Indian, Chinese, and continental dishes. The food is flavorful and the ambiance is cozy. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹500 per person.
• If you're in the mood for a special dinner, check out Embassy Restaurant. Known for its elegant decor and delectable North Indian and Chinese cuisine, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹800 per person.

Wednesday, December 27: Jim Corbett National Park

Morning: Embark on an exciting jeep safari in Jim Corbett National Park to spot majestic tigers, elephants, and other wildlife species in their natural habitat.

Afternoon: Visit Corbett Museum to learn about the history and conservation efforts of the park.

Evening: Enjoy a relaxing nature walk in the surrounding forests.

• Jeep Safari: Cost: INR 4,000-5,000 (approx.), Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Corbett Museum: Cost: INR 30 (approx.), Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Nature Walk: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Thursday, December 28: Rishikesh

Morning: Start your day with a yoga or meditation session overlooking the serene Ganges River.

Afternoon: Visit the iconic Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula suspension bridges for panoramic views and explore the numerous ashrams and temples in the area.

Evening: Attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony by the riverbank, where devotees offer prayers and light lamps.

• Yoga/Meditation: Cost: Varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Ganga Aarti: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Friday, December 29: Mussoorie

Morning: Begin your day with a cable car ride to Gun Hill, the second highest peak in Mussoorie, for breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

Afternoon: Visit Kempty Falls, where you can take a refreshing dip in the cascading waters.

Evening: Explore the vibrant mall road, filled with shops, cafes, and street vendors.

• Cable Car Ride: Cost: INR 100-200 (approx.), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Kempty Falls: Cost: INR 20 (approx.), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Mall Road: Cost: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Saturday, December 30: Ranikhet

Morning: Visit the Chaubatia Gardens, famous for their orchards and panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

Afternoon: Explore the ancient temples and ashrams in the area, such as the Jhula Devi Temple and Upat Kalika Temple.

Evening: Enjoy a relaxing picnic amidst the serene beauty of Bhalu Dam.

• Chaubatia Gardens: Cost: INR 20-30 (approx.), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Jhula Devi Temple: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Bhalu Dam: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Sunday, December 31: Haridwar

Morning: Witness the enchanting spectacle of Har Ki Pauri, a sacred ghat on the Ganges, where devotees gather for the daily Ganga Aarti.

Afternoon: Explore the ancient Mansa Devi Temple, accessible via a cable car ride, and seek blessings from the goddess.

Evening: Visit the bustling markets of Haridwar and indulge in local street food specialties.

• Har Ki Pauri: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Mansa Devi Temple: Cost: INR 200 (approx.), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Street Food: Cost: Varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, consider exploring the lesser-known hill stations of Uttarakhand, such as Lansdowne and Mukteshwar. These serene destinations offer tranquil atmospheres, scenic beauty, and plenty of outdoor activities suitable for families.