7-Day Uttarakhand Rail/Train Trip on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Exploring Dehradun

Dehradun, India

8:00AM

Robber's Cave

Start your day with a visit to Robber's Cave, known for its natural beauty and a stream flowing through a cave. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the cave.
Robber's Cave is a 30-minute drive from Dehradun Railway Station.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ellora's Bakery

Head to Ellora's Bakery for a delightful lunch offering a variety of snacks and baked goods. A local favourite for budget-friendly meals.
Ellora's Bakery is a 15-minute walk from Robber's Cave.
INR 200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Forest Research Institute

Explore the Forest Research Institute, a premier institution for forestry research. Walk around the beautiful campus and learn about the flora of the region.
Forest Research Institute is a 20-minute drive from Ellora's Bakery.
INR 50, 2 hours

5:00PM

Clock Tower Market

End your day by strolling through the Clock Tower Market. Shop for souvenirs, local handicrafts, and enjoy street food delicacies.
Clock Tower Market is a 15-minute drive from Forest Research Institute.
Variable, 2 hours
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Day 2: Majestic Mussoorie

Mussoorie, India

9:00AM

Gun Hill Point

Start your day early with a cable car ride to Gun Hill Point for panoramic views of the Himalayas. A perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Take a 2-hour bus ride from Dehradun to Mussoorie, followed by a 10-minute walk to the cable car station.
INR 150, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kalsang Friends Corner

Enjoy a Tibetan meal at Kalsang Friends Corner, known for its authentic flavours and budget-friendly prices.
Kalsang Friends Corner is a 5-minute walk from Gun Hill Point.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Camel's Back Road

Take a leisurely walk along Camel's Back Road, a picturesque stretch offering stunning views of the mountains and valleys.
Camel's Back Road is a 20-minute walk from Kalsang Friends Corner.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Mall Road Shopping

Spend your evening exploring Mall Road, lined with shops selling local handicrafts, woollens, and souvenirs. Enjoy street food and local snacks.
Mall Road is a 10-minute walk from Camel's Back Road.
Variable, 2 hours
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Day 3: Spiritual Rishikesh

Rishikesh, India

9:00AM

Laxman Jhula

Begin your day with a visit to Laxman Jhula, an iconic suspension bridge over the Ganges. Enjoy the serene view of the river and the surrounding temples.
Take a 6-hour train journey from Mussoorie to Rishikesh, followed by a 20-minute auto-rickshaw ride to Laxman Jhula.
INR 100, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Chotiwala

Head to Chotiwala for a traditional Indian thali lunch experience. Relish authentic flavours at a budget-friendly price.
Chotiwala is a 10-minute walk from Laxman Jhula.
INR 250, 1 hour

2:00PM

Beatles Ashram

Explore the Beatles Ashram, an abandoned ashram where The Beatles once stayed. Discover the colourful graffiti and art installations.
Beatles Ashram is a 15-minute walk from Chotiwala.
INR 150, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan

Witness the mesmerising Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan. Experience the spiritual ambiance by the banks of the Ganges.
Parmarth Niketan is a 30-minute walk from Beatles Ashram.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 4: Tranquil Nainital

Nainital, India

9:00AM

Naini Lake

Start your day with a boat ride on the serene Naini Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and hills. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Take a 7-hour train journey from Rishikesh to Nainital, followed by a 15-minute walk to Naini Lake.
INR 200, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Chandani Chowk Restaurant

Indulge in a delicious lunch at Chandani Chowk Restaurant, offering a mix of Indian and Chinese cuisine at affordable prices.
Chandani Chowk Restaurant is a 10-minute walk from Naini Lake.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Naina Devi Temple

Visit the Naina Devi Temple, a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi. Seek blessings and admire the architecture.
Naina Devi Temple is a 20-minute walk from Chandani Chowk Restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Tibetan Market Shopping

Explore the Tibetan Market for unique souvenirs, handicrafts, and woollen items. Bargain for good deals and immerse in the local culture.
Tibetan Market is a 15-minute walk from Naina Devi Temple.
Variable, 2 hours
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Day 5: Harmonious Haridwar

Haridwar, India

9:00AM

Har Ki Pauri

Start your day with a visit to Har Ki Pauri, a sacred ghat on the Ganges where the famous Ganga Aarti takes place. Witness the spiritual rituals.
Take a 6-hour train journey from Nainital to Haridwar, followed by a 10-minute walk to Har Ki Pauri.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hoshiyarpuri

Enjoy a traditional North Indian lunch at Hoshiyarpuri, known for its authentic flavours and pocket-friendly prices.
Hoshiyarpuri is a 5-minute walk from Har Ki Pauri.
INR 250, 1 hour

2:00PM

Mansa Devi Temple

Visit the Mansa Devi Temple, perched on a hill offering panoramic views of Haridwar. Seek blessings and enjoy the serene environment.
Mansa Devi Temple is a 20-minute walk from Hoshiyarpuri.
INR 50 (cable car ride), 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Explore Local Markets

Spend your evening exploring the local markets of Haridwar for spiritual items, Ganges water vessels, and traditional clothing.
The local markets are within walking distance from Mansa Devi Temple.
Variable, 2 hours
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Day 6: Relaxing Retreat

Haridwar, India

9:00AM

Ayurvedic Massage

Indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage at a local spa to relax and unwind. Experience traditional healing techniques.
Walk to a nearby Ayurvedic centre for a relaxing massage.
INR 800, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Chotiwala Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty Indian meal at Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its vegetarian dishes and comforting ambiance.
Chotiwala Restaurant is a short walk from the spa.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Haridwar Temple

Explore the temples of Haridwar, known for their architectural beauty and spiritual significance. Take in the peaceful atmosphere.
The temples are within walking distance from Chotiwala Restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Evening Ghat Visit

Stroll along the ghats of Haridwar during the evening aarti. Witness the lamps floating on the Ganges and immerse in the spiritual vibes.
The ghats are a short walk from the temples.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Final Day in Haridwar

Haridwar, India

9:00AM

Rajaji National Park

Embark on a morning safari at Rajaji National Park, known for its diverse flora and fauna. Spot wildlife in their natural habitat.
Take a 1-hour bus ride from Haridwar to Rajaji National Park.
INR 500, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pandit Ji Poori Wale

Savour some authentic street food at Pandit Ji Poori Wale, a local favourite for delicious snacks and quick bites.
Pandit Ji Poori Wale is near the entrance of the national park.
INR 100, 1 hour

3:00PM

River Rafting on the Ganges

Experience the thrill of river rafting on the Ganges with professional guides. Enjoy the adrenaline rush amidst stunning natural surroundings.
Drive to the rafting point for an exciting experience.
INR 1000, 2 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Big Ben Restaurant

Conclude your Uttarakhand trip with a farewell dinner at Big Ben Restaurant. Relish a mix of Indian and continental dishes.
Big Ben Restaurant is a short drive from the rafting point.
INR 500, 2 hours
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