Exploring Nature in Uttarakhand: A 7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary

Day 1: City Exploration in Dehradun

Dehradun, India

8:00 AM

Robber's Cave

Start your day with a visit to Robber's Cave, a natural cave formation surrounded by lush greenery and a flowing stream, perfect for a family picnic.
Robber's Cave is located 8.5 km from Dehradun city center. It takes around 30 minutes to reach by car.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Tapkeshwar Temple

Visit Tapkeshwar Temple, a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located inside a cave, offering a serene and spiritual experience.
Tapkeshwar Temple is a 6 km drive from Robber's Cave, taking about 20 minutes to reach.
Free, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Lunch at Town Table

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Town Table, a popular restaurant in Dehradun known for its local cuisine and cozy ambiance.
Town Table is in the city center, easily accessible from Tapkeshwar Temple.
$10 per person, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Malsi Deer Park

Spend the afternoon at Malsi Deer Park, home to various deer species, birds, and a children's park, offering a fun and educational experience for the whole family.
Malsi Deer Park is a short 7 km drive from Town Table, taking around 25 minutes to reach.
$5 per person, 2 hours
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Day 2: Nature Retreat in Dehradun

Dehradun, India

9:00 AM

Mindrolling Monastery

Start your day at Mindrolling Monastery, a beautiful Tibetan monastery with stunning architecture, serene gardens, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Mindrolling Monastery is about 5 km from the city center, taking approximately 15 minutes to reach.
Donation based entry, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Picnic at Sahastradhara

Enjoy a picnic lunch at Sahastradhara, a breathtaking waterfall with medicinal sulfur springs, ideal for relaxation and family bonding.
Sahastradhara is 14 km from Mindrolling Monastery, taking around 40 minutes to reach.
$20 for picnic supplies, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Shopping at Paltan Bazaar

Explore Paltan Bazaar for some souvenir shopping and local handicrafts, a lively market offering a glimpse into Dehradun's culture.
Paltan Bazaar is in the city center, easily accessible from Sahastradhara.
Varies based on purchases, 1 hour
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Day 3: Spiritual Retreat in Rishikesh

Rishikesh, India

9:00 AM

Visit Beatles Ashram

Begin your day at Beatles Ashram, an abandoned ashram where The Beatles stayed in the 1960s, now covered in vibrant street art and graffiti.
Beatles Ashram is about 20 km from Dehradun and takes around 1 hour to reach by car.
$5 per person, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Chotiwala

Indulge in a traditional North Indian meal at Chotiwala, a popular restaurant in Rishikesh known for its delicious food and riverside dining experience.
Chotiwala is in the city center, easily accessible from Beatles Ashram.
$15 per person, 1 hour

2:00 PM

White Water Rafting on Ganges

Experience the thrill of white water rafting on the Ganges River, a family-friendly adventure offering breathtaking views and exciting rapids.
The rafting starting point is a short drive from Chotiwala, with various options for rafting tours.
$30 per person, 3 hours
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Day 4: Yoga and Serenity in Rishikesh

Rishikesh, India

8:00 AM

Yoga at Parmarth Niketan

Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga session at Parmarth Niketan, one of the largest ashrams in Rishikesh known for its spiritual teachings and peaceful environment.
Parmarth Niketan is in close proximity to the city center, accessible by a short drive or walk.
Donation based, 1.5 hours

10:00 AM

Breakfast at Little Buddha Cafe

Enjoy a healthy breakfast at Little Buddha Cafe, a cozy spot overlooking the Ganges River, serving delicious vegetarian and vegan options.
Little Buddha Cafe is near Parmarth Niketan, offering a scenic walk along the river.
$10 per person, 1 hour

11:30 AM

Explore Neer Garh Waterfall

Visit Neer Garh Waterfall for a refreshing dip in the natural pool surrounded by lush greenery, a perfect spot for relaxation and connecting with nature.
Neer Garh Waterfall is a short drive from the city center, offering a picturesque journey through the mountains.
$3 per person, 2 hours
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Day 5: Lake Retreat in Nainital

Nainital, India

9:00 AM

Boat Ride on Naini Lake

Start your day with a serene boat ride on Naini Lake, surrounded by picturesque mountains and lush forests, offering a peaceful and scenic experience.
Naini Lake is in the heart of Nainital, easily accessible from most accommodations.
$5 per person, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Naina Devi Temple

Visit Naina Devi Temple, a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi, offering panoramic views of the lake and the town.
Naina Devi Temple is a short walk or drive from Naini Lake, located on top of a hill.
Free, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at Sonam's Kitchen

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Sonam's Kitchen, a cozy cafe known for its homely atmosphere and delicious homemade food.
Sonam's Kitchen is located near Naina Devi Temple, offering a convenient dining option.
$12 per person, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Hike to Tiffin Top

Embark on a scenic hike to Tiffin Top, a popular viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Himalayas and Nainital town, perfect for family photos and nature lovers.
The trail to Tiffin Top starts near the town center, providing a moderate trek suitable for families.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 6: Exploring Wildlife in Nainital

Nainital, India

10:00 AM

Visit Jim Corbett Gurney House

Explore Jim Corbett Gurney House, the former residence of hunter and conservationist Jim Corbett, now a museum showcasing his life and contributions to wildlife conservation.
Jim Corbett Gurney House is located in Nainital town, easily reachable by car or walking.
$3 per person, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Machan Restaurant

Savor a delicious lunch at Machan Restaurant, a jungle-themed eatery known for its flavorful dishes and cozy ambiance.
Machan Restaurant is centrally located in Nainital, offering a convenient dining option after visiting the museum.
$15 per person, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Jim Corbett Zoo

Visit Jim Corbett Zoo to see a variety of Himalayan wildlife species, including snow leopards, Tibetan wolves, and Himalayan black bears, providing an educational and exciting experience for all.
Jim Corbett Zoo is adjacent to Gurney House, offering a seamless transition between the two attractions.
$5 per person, 2 hours
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Day 7: Cave Exploration in Nainital

Nainital, India

9:00 AM

Explore Eco Cave Gardens

Discover the Eco Cave Gardens, a network of interconnected natural caves with musical fountains and a hanging garden, providing a unique and adventurous experience for families.
Eco Cave Gardens are located near Mallital in Nainital town, easily accessible by foot or car.
$2 per person, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Embassy Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Embassy Restaurant, a popular eatery offering a diverse menu of Indian and international cuisine, perfect for a family meal.
Embassy Restaurant is in the heart of Nainital, providing a convenient dining option after exploring the caves.
$20 per person, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Boat House Club

Spend the afternoon at Boat House Club, a recreational club by the lake offering various activities like boating, swimming, and a relaxing atmosphere for families to unwind.
Boat House Club is located on the shores of Naini Lake, providing easy access for visitors.
$10 per person, 3 hours
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