Spiritual Journey in Haridwar and Rishikesh

Day 1: Haridwar Exploration

Haridwar, India

8:00AM

Morning Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri

Start your day by witnessing the mesmerising morning Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, a spiritual and ritualistic event that takes place on the banks of the Ganges River.
Har Ki Pauri is located in the heart of Haridwar, easily accessible by walking or taking a short rickshaw ride from most hotels in the city.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Mansa Devi Temple

Head to Mansa Devi Temple, a famous hilltop temple dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Ganges from the hill.
You can reach the temple by taking a cable car ride from the base of the hill, which adds to the experience.
INR 100 for cable car ride, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Chotiwala Restaurant

Indulge in delicious North Indian cuisine at Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its traditional dishes and charming ambience.
Chotiwala Restaurant is centrally located in Haridwar and can be reached easily by a short walk or rickshaw ride from the temple.
INR 500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Local Markets

Spend your afternoon exploring the vibrant local markets of Haridwar, filled with religious items, colourful clothes, and street food stalls.
The markets are best explored on foot, starting from the main market area near Har Ki Pauri.
Variable, 2 hours

6:00PM

Evening Aarti at Chandi Devi Temple

End your day with the evening Aarti at Chandi Devi Temple, another sacred ritual that offers a peaceful and spiritual experience.
Chandi Devi Temple is located on a hill, and you can reach the temple either by a steep trek or by a cable car ride.
INR 150 for cable car ride, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Spiritual Retreat

Haridwar, India

7:00AM

Yoga and Meditation by the Ganges

Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga and meditation session by the banks of the Ganges, surrounded by the serene atmosphere of Haridwar.
There are many yoga centres and ghats along the river where you can join a session or practice on your own.
Free or nominal fee for guided sessions, 1.5 hours

9:00AM

Breakfast at Pandit Ji Poori Wale

Enjoy a traditional Indian breakfast of piping hot pooris and sabzi at Pandit Ji Poori Wale, a popular local eatery.
The restaurant is located near the main market area and can be reached by walking from most hotels.
INR 100, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple

Explore the ancient Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and known for its intricate architecture and spiritual significance.
The temple is a short drive from the city centre, and you can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach there.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Big Ben Restaurant

Relish a hearty meal at Big Ben Restaurant, offering a mix of Indian and Chinese cuisines in a cosy setting.
Big Ben Restaurant is located in a convenient location in Haridwar and is easily accessible by local transport or walking.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Attend a Satsang Session

Participate in a soulful Satsang session at one of the ashrams in Haridwar, where you can immerse yourself in devotional music and spiritual teachings.
Many ashrams conduct Satsang sessions in the afternoon, and you can inquire at your hotel or visit popular ashrams like Parmarth Niketan.
Free, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Rishikesh Arrival

Rishikesh, India

9:00AM

Check-in at Your Rishikesh Accommodation

Arrive in Rishikesh and check-in at your chosen accommodation, whether it's a riverside guesthouse, a yoga retreat, or a boutique hotel.
Depending on your mode of transport, you can reach Rishikesh from Haridwar by road in approximately 1-2 hours. Taxis, buses, and private cars are readily available.
Variable, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula

Explore the iconic suspension bridges of Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula, offering scenic views of the Ganges and surrounded by bustling markets and ashrams.
The bridges are a short walk from each other and can be easily accessed by foot from most parts of Rishikesh.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Sitting Elephant

Enjoy a vegetarian feast at The Sitting Elephant, a popular restaurant known for its delicious food and serene ambience overlooking the river.
The Sitting Elephant is located near Laxman Jhula and is a short walk from the bridge, offering a peaceful dining experience.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Attend a Yoga Class

Immerse yourself in a yoga class at one of the many renowned yoga studios in Rishikesh, known as the Yoga Capital of the World.
You can easily find yoga studios and centres offering drop-in classes for all levels in Rishikesh. Check the schedules and walk-in for a session.
INR 300 per class, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Sunset Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan

Witness the enchanting sunset Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan, a spiritual experience filled with prayers, music, and the lighting of lamps by the river.
Parmarth Niketan is a short walk from Ram Jhula, and you can join the evening Aarti ceremony easily from most parts of Rishikesh.
Free, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Rishikesh Adventure

Rishikesh, India

8:00AM

River Rafting on the Ganges

Embark on an adrenaline-pumping adventure with river rafting on the Ganges, experiencing thrilling rapids and breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Several rafting operators offer different levels of rafting experiences in Rishikesh. You can book a session in advance or find one on the spot.
INR 1500 onwards, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pure Soul Cafe

Relax and refuel at Pure Soul Cafe, a popular eatery serving healthy and organic meals with a view of the river and surrounding mountains.
The cafe is located near the rafting end point and is a great place to unwind after your adventure.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Beatles Ashram

Discover the abandoned Beatles Ashram, also known as Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, where the Beatles stayed in the 1960s and find inspiration in the graffiti art and serene surroundings.
The ashram is located near the Ganges and can be reached by a short walk or hiring a bicycle from the main market area.
INR 150 for entry, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shop for Souvenirs

Spend your afternoon shopping for spiritual souvenirs, yoga gear, and local handicrafts in the markets of Rishikesh, perfect for finding unique gifts.
Explore the markets near Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula, where you'll find a variety of shops selling everything from incense sticks to clothing.
Variable, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Sitting Elephant

End your day with another delightful meal at The Sitting Elephant, savouring the flavours of Rishikesh and the peaceful ambiance of the restaurant.
Return to The Sitting Elephant for a relaxing dinner, enjoying the evening by the Ganges before retiring for the night.
INR 500, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability