4-Day Shoestring Budget Rail Trip in Haridwar and Rishikesh

Day 1: Discover Haridwar

Haridwar, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Mohanji Puri Wale

Start your day with delicious, hot puris and halwa at this beloved local eatery.
Located near Har Ki Pauri, which is a short walk from the restaurant.
INR 100, 1 hour

8:30AM

Morning Ganga Aarti

Witness the spiritual morning Aarti by the Ganges, which fills the atmosphere with enchanting hymns.
Walk to Har Ki Pauri, just a few minutes from your breakfast spot.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Har Ki Pauri

Stroll along the ghats, enjoy the scenery, and interact with locals for an enriching experience.
Your exploration begins along the ghats which are an extension of your previous visit.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Mansa Devi Temple

Ascend the hill by cable car to visit this revered temple offering breathtaking views.
Take a cable car from the base near the Har Ki Pauri area.
INR 150, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Chotiwala Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional North Indian thali at this famous restaurant known for its hearty meals.
Walk to the restaurant from Mansa Devi, it's a short distance.
INR 200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Bharat Mata Mandir

Visit this unique temple dedicated to Mother India and marvel at the intricately constructed levels.
Take a rickshaw or walk, it’s about 2 km from Chotiwala Restaurant.
INR 50, 1 hour

4:30PM

Evening at Ganga Riverbank

Relax by the riverbank, read a book, or simply watch the sunset over the river.
Return to Har Ki Pauri, find a peaceful spot along the river.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at the riverside

Enjoy a simple yet satisfying meal at a riverside café while enjoying the evening ambiance.
Choose any cafe along the riverbank.
INR 200, 1 hour
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Day 2: Haridwar to Rishikesh

Rishikesh, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Haldiram's

Savour a mix of South Indian delicacies, or opt for classic North Indian dishes at this popular fast food chain.
Located in the city centre, easily accessible by foot or rickshaw.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Rishikesh

Board a local train to Rishikesh, soaking in the beautiful views along the way.
Trains depart regularly from Haridwar Railway Station.
INR 50, 1 hour

10:30AM

Check into Hotel

Find a budget hotel or guesthouse to settle in for your two-night stay.
Recommended places include the hostels near Laxman Jhula.
INR 800/night, 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit Laxman Jhula

Enjoy a walk across this famous iron suspension bridge and take in the panoramic views.
Start from your hotel, it’s a short walk.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The 60's Cafe

Relish a meal while vibing to classic music in this laid-back, iconic spot.
Adjacent to Laxman Jhula, just a 5-minute walk.
INR 250, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Swarg Ashram

Take a serene stroll through this ashram, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and maybe join a yoga session.
A 15-minute walk along the Ganga following a riverside path.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Yoga Session at Parmarth Niketan

Participate in a community yoga session at one of the largest ashrams in Rishikesh.
Located close by on the banks of the Ganges.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Evening Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan

Experience an enchanting evening Aarti with chants and devotional songs at this iconic ashram.
Stay at Parmarth Niketan to attend the aarti after your yoga session.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Little Buddha Cafe

Enjoy a fantastic view and delicious Italian and Indian delicacies with a homey vibe.
A short walk from Parmarth Niketan.
INR 300, 1 hour
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Day 3: Adventure in Rishikesh

Rishikesh, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Beatles Cafe

Eat a hearty breakfast with delicious pancakes or an egg-based dish while enjoying quirky decor.
Close to Laxman Jhula, a 10-minute walk from your hotel.
INR 250, 1 hour

9:00AM

River Rafting Adventure

Embark on an exhilarating rafting experience in the Ganges, a must-do while in Rishikesh.
Book a package that includes transport, starting from Rishikesh.
INR 800, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the riverside dhaba

Savour simple yet tasty Indian meals at local dhabas near the rafting starting point.
There are several options near the rafting area.
INR 150, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Neer Garh Waterfall

Trek to the beautiful Neer Garh Waterfall, a refreshing spot perfect for a dip.
Hire a local guide or find the trail near Laxman Jhula.
INR 50, 2 hours

3:30PM

Relax on Rishikesh Beaches

Spend some time unwinding on the serene beaches, perfect for sunbathing or reading.
Head back towards Laxman Jhula and find a suitable spot.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Join the Satsang

Engage in a spiritual gathering, singing, and chanting that prompts reflection and community.
Check local listings for Satsang timings closer to your location.
Donation-based, approx. INR 100, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Chowk Restaurant

Choose from an array of vegetarian delights amidst a relaxed atmosphere.
Located near Laxman Jhula, a short walk from your previous activity.
INR 250, 1 hour
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Day 4: Last day in Rishikesh

Rishikesh, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at German Bakery

Treat yourself to fresh pastries or a classic breakfast in the delightful ambiance of this popular café.
A short walk from Laxman Jhula.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Trimbakeshwar Temple

Discover this ancient temple set in a tranquil environment, a beautiful example of Indian architecture.
Accessible by local transport or a longer walk from your café.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Ram Jhula

Wander through this beautiful suspension bridge, enjoying the views and the local feel.
Return to the city centre where Ram Jhula is located.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Ramada Café

Indulge in a tasty meal with an array of local and international cuisine options.
Situated near Ram Jhula, an easy location to reach.
INR 300, 1 hour

1:30PM

Infinity Viewpoint

Hike to this tranquil viewpoint, boasting stunning vistas of the Ganges below.
You can find directions near Ram Jhula.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Beatles Ashram

Explore this fascinating place where the Beatles meditated in the 1960s, filled with vibrant murals.
It's a short walk from the city centre towards the river.
INR 100, 1 hour

5:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Bistro Nirvana

Finish your trip with a delicious meal at this charming eatery known for its varied menu.
Located near the Beatles Ashram, easily walkable.
INR 400, 1.5 hours
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