Start your trip to Rishikesh by arriving at the Jolly Grant Airport or the Haridwar Railway Station. Check into a hotel near the iconic Laxman Jhula, a suspension bridge over the River Ganges. In the morning, explore the spiritual side of Rishikesh by visiting the famous ashrams like Parmarth Niketan and Sivananda Ashram. In the afternoon, enjoy a serene boat ride on the Ganges, and later, witness the evening aarti (prayer ceremony) at Parmarth Niketan or Triveni Ghat.
Ganga Aarti: Approx. cost - INR 0, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A cozy café near Laxman Jhula that offers a variety of breakfast options including freshly baked breads and pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
A riverside restaurant serving delicious Indian and international dishes for lunch, with stunning views of the Ganges. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
A rooftop restaurant with a romantic ambiance, serving mouthwatering Indian and Chinese cuisine for dinner. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday, November 27, 2023: Adventure in Rishikesh
Embark on an adventurous day in Rishikesh. Start your morning with a thrilling session of white water rafting in the Ganges, experiencing the adrenaline rush amidst nature's beauty. Afterward, visit the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, located amidst the lush Shivalik Hills, which offers panoramic views of the surroundings. In the evening, explore the local markets and enjoy delicious street food.
White Water Rafting: Approx. cost - INR 1,500 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Local Market: Approx. cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Rishikesh is Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its delicious traditional Indian breakfast options. A meal here costs around 200 INR per person.
If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, head to 60's Beatles Café. This cozy restaurant offers a variety of international dishes with a hippie vibe. Expect to spend around 400 INR per person for a meal.
For a wonderful dinner experience, try Little Buddha Café. This rooftop restaurant serves mouthwatering Tibetan and Italian cuisine, with a fantastic view of the Ganges. The average cost for a meal here is around 600 INR per person.
Tuesday, November 28, 2023: Visit to Haridwar
On this day, take a day trip to Haridwar, a city of religious significance located about 20 kilometers from Rishikesh. Start your morning by attending the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, a ritualistic evening prayer held at the banks of the Ganges. Afterward, explore the ancient temples like Mansa Devi Temple and Chandi Devi Temple. In the evening, witness the floating diyas (lamps) ceremony at Har Ki Pauri.
Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri: Approx. cost - INR 0, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Mansa Devi Temple: Approx. cost - INR 200 (cable car ride extra), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Chandi Devi Temple: Approx. cost - INR 200 (cable car ride extra), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Wednesday, November 29, 2023: Journey to Mussoorie
Leave Rishikesh and head towards the beautiful hill station of Mussoorie, located amidst the scenic Garhwal Himalayas. Check into a hotel overlooking the breathtaking Doon Valley. In the morning, explore the famous attractions of Mussoorie, including the Mall Road, Gun Hill, and Kempty Falls. Enjoy the pleasant weather and indulge in local food specialties. In the evening, take a romantic walk along the Mall Road and enjoy the stunning views.
Gun Hill: Approx. cost - INR 75 per person (cable car ride extra), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Kempty Falls: Approx. cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Thursday, November 30, 2023: Nature Exploration in Mussoorie
On this day, explore the natural beauty of Mussoorie. Start your morning with a visit to the picturesque Company Garden, known for its vibrant flowerbeds and amusement activities. Then, trek to the stunning Cloud's End, a beautiful forest area where you can enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst nature. In the evening, visit the enchanting Jharipani Falls and soak in the tranquility of the surroundings.
Company Garden: Approx. cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Ivy, a cozy cafe known for its freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a delightful lunch, head to Char Dukaan, a quaint eatery offering mouthwatering Tibetan cuisine. Don't miss their famous momos and thukpa. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Indulge in a scrumptious dinner at Kalsang Friends Corner, a popular Tibetan restaurant serving a variety of dishes including thenthuk and ting mo. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Rishikesh and Mussoorie, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Beatles Ashram in Rishikesh, also known as Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram. This place holds historical importance as it was visited by the famous band, The Beatles, during their spiritual journey to India. Another hidden gem is the Sir George Everest's House and Laboratory in Mussoorie, offering stunning views of the Himalayas and a glimpse into the past. Locals love to spend serene moments at Laltibba, the highest point in Mussoorie, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the snow-capped mountains.
For the best hotel and flight deals, you can check prices on Kayak.