Honeymoon Itinerary for a 7-Day Trip to Uttrakhand

Friday, December 22:

Start your honeymoon trip in Uttrakhand by arriving at Dehradun airport. From there, travel to the sacred city of Haridwar in the morning to witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Har Ki Pauri ghat. Afternoon can be spent exploring the beautiful Rajaji National Park, followed by a romantic boat ride on the holy Ganges River. In the evening, visit the Chandi Devi Temple for breathtaking views of Haridwar.

• Har Ki Pauri: Entry is free, estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Rajaji National Park: Safari cost starts at INR 1500 ($20), estimated time spent: 4 hours
• Chandi Devi Temple: Cable car ride costs INR 192 ($2.50), estimated time spent: 2 hours

Saturday, December 23:

Embark on a scenic drive from Haridwar to Rishikesh, the Yoga capital of the world. Spend the morning exploring the famous Laxman Jhula, a suspension bridge over the Ganges. Visit the Beatles Ashram, where the famous band practiced Transcendental Meditation. In the evening, witness the grand Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan ashram, with the sounds of chants and the floating lit diyas creating a magical atmosphere.

• Laxman Jhula: Free entry, estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Beatles Ashram: Entry fee is INR 150 ($2), estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free entry, estimated time spent: 2 hours

Sunday, December 24:

Head towards Mussoorie, also known as the Queen of Hill Stations. Explore the tranquil Kempty Falls in the morning and enjoy a refreshing dip in the chilly waters. In the afternoon, visit the famous Gun Hill viewpoint for incredible panoramic views of the Himalayas. As the evening sets in, take a romantic stroll along the Mall Road, lined with shops, cafes, and colonial-era buildings.

• Kempty Falls: Entry fee is INR 50 ($0.70), estimated time spent: 3 hours
• Gun Hill: Cable car ride costs INR 75 ($1), estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Mall Road: No entry fee, estimated time spent: 3 hours

Monday, December 25:

Travel to Auli, a breathtaking hill station known for its skiing and panoramic views of the snow-covered mountains. Spend the day enjoying the winter sports activities, such as skiing, snowboarding, and cable car rides. Admire the majestic Nanda Devi Peak and the surrounding beauty of the Garhwal Himalayas.

• Skiing in Auli: Prices vary, estimated time spent: 6 hours
• Cable car ride: Prices start at INR 750 ($10), estimated time spent: 2 hours

Tuesday, December 26:

Head towards Jim Corbett National Park, famous for its wildlife and natural beauty. Start the day with an early morning safari to spot tigers, elephants, and other wildlife. Afternoon can be spent visiting the Corbett Waterfall and engaging in a jungle trek. In the evening, enjoy a serene boat ride in the Ramganga Reservoir.

• Jim Corbett National Park: Safari cost starts at INR 4000 ($53) per vehicle, estimated time spent: 6 hours
• Corbett Waterfall: Entry fee is INR 50 ($0.70), estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Ramganga Reservoir: Boat ride cost starts at INR 200 ($2.50), estimated time spent: 2 hours

Wednesday, December 27:

Proceed to Nainital, a popular hill station surrounded by beautiful lakes and lush greenery. Begin the day by exploring the Naini Lake and enjoying a boat ride. Visit the famous Naina Devi Temple and the scenic viewpoint of Tiffin Top in the afternoon. In the evening, explore the vibrant Mall Road and indulge in shopping for souvenirs.

• Naini Lake: Boat ride cost starts at INR 210 ($3), estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Naina Devi Temple: Entry is free, estimated time spent: 1 hour
• Tiffin Top: Entry fee is INR 30 ($0.40), estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Mall Road: No entry fee, estimated time spent: 3 hours

Thursday, December 28:

Conclude your honeymoon trip by visiting the spiritual city of Badrinath. Explore the iconic Badrinath Temple and take a holy bath in the Tapt Kund hot springs. In the afternoon, visit the Mana Village, the last village before the India-China border. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the mountains and the Vasudhara Falls. End the trip with a drive back to Dehradun.

• Badrinath Temple: Entry is free, estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Mana Village: Entry is free, estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Vasudhara Falls: No entry fee, estimated time spent: 3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites:

While in Uttrakhand, don't miss visiting the hidden gem of Chopta, known as the "Mini Switzerland of India." It offers breathtaking views, peaceful surroundings, and can be a perfect spot for a romantic picnic. Another offbeat destination to consider is the picturesque village of Munsiyari, nestled in the snow-capped peaks of the great Himalayan mountain range. It offers stunning views and serves as a base for many treks in the region.

For local favorites, indulge in the lip-smacking local Kumaoni cuisine, known for its distinct flavors and use of locally sourced ingredients. Don't miss trying traditional dishes like Bhatt ki Churkani, Kafuli, and Singori, a popular sweet made with khoya and wrapped in a Maalu leaf.

For more travel information, check here to find hotel and flight prices for your trip to Uttrakhand.