Affordable 5-Day Kolkata to Rishikesh Budget Trip for 5 Friends - Explore Hidden Gems & Local Flavours

Day 1: Journey to Rishikesh

Kolkata to Rishikesh, India on October 5, 2025

6:00am

Train from Kolkata to Haridwar

Board the affordable Shatabdi Express or Jan Shatabdi train to reach Haridwar early morning next day; cost-effective and comfortable overnight journey.
INR 800 per person (Sleeper class approx.), 15h0m

9:00am (next day)

Shared taxi from Haridwar to Rishikesh

After arrival at Haridwar station, take a shared taxi or bus to Rishikesh, approx 1-hour ride through scenic route.
INR 50-100 per person, 1h0m

11:00am

Check into budget homestay or hostel

Stay at a budget-friendly guesthouse near Laxman Jhula for easy access and great views.
INR 300-400 per person per night, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Little Buddha Cafe

Enjoy affordable local and international fusion cuisine in a cozy setting, perfect for a light and tasty meal.
INR 150-200 per person, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Neer Garh Waterfall (hidden gem)

Take a trek (approx 30 mins) to this serene waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, less crowded and perfect for relaxation.
Free, 3h0m

5:30pm

Evening Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat

Witness the spiritual Ganga Aarti ceremony at Triveni Ghat, a soul-stirring experience in Rishikesh.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Chatsang Cafe

Affordable and quaint cafe offering delicious North Indian dishes and snacks. Great ambiance near the river.
INR 150-250 per person, 1h0m
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Day 2: Rishikesh Exploring

Rishikesh, India on October 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ramana's Organic Cafe

Start day with healthy organic breakfast options including smoothies and pancakes.
INR 120-180 per person, 1h0m

9:30am

Yoga session at a local ashram (Parmarth Niketan)

Experience an affordable group yoga session with expert instructors at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.
INR 200 per person, 1h30m

11:30am

Visit Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia)

Explore the graffiti-filled abandoned ashram, a peaceful and artistic hidden spot with low entrance fee.
INR 200 per person, 2h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Little Sister Cafe

Enjoy an affordable selection of continental and Indian dishes alongside serene riverside views.
INR 150-220 per person, 1h0m

3:30pm

Walk through Tapovan area and visit Lakshman Jhula

Stroll through local markets and explore the famous suspension bridge with picturesque views.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Sunset at Ram Jhula and tea at Sitting Elephant Cafe

Enjoy spectacular sunset views and sip fresh tea in this cozy riverfront cafe.
INR 80-150 per person, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Pure Soul Cafe & Organic Kitchen

Affordable organic meals and healthy food options with a relaxed atmosphere.
INR 150-250 per person, 1h0m
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Day 3: Adventure & Culture

Rishikesh, India on October 7, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Chotiwala Restaurant

Famous for traditional North Indian vegetarian breakfast, economical and tasty.
INR 100-150 per person, 1h0m

8:30am

White water rafting on the Ganges river

Book a group rafting package that is budget-friendly and thrilling in the rapids of the Ganges.
INR 600-800 per person, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Neemrana Restaurant

Known for delicious local delicacies and affordable thali options.
INR 120-180 per person, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Vashishta Gufa (Hidden cave and meditation spot)

Trek to the quiet cave of sage Vashishta, perfect for some peaceful meditation.
Free, 3h0m (including trek)

6:00pm

Evening walk in Rajaji National Park vicinity

Roam nearby trails and spot wildlife in the buffer zone; coordinate with local guides for budget tours.
INR 100 per person, 2h0m

8:30pm

Dinner at Zahara Cafe

Simple, budget-friendly meals featuring continental and Indian dishes.
INR 150-200 per person, 1h0m
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Day 4: Local Life & Relax

Rishikesh, India on October 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pure Soul Cafe & Organic Kitchen

Light and wholesome organic options to start the day.
INR 150-200 per person, 1h0m

9:30am

Explore local markets in Rishikesh

Shop for affordable souvenirs, handicrafts, and local products.
Free (shopping own expense), 2h0m

12:00pm

Visit Tera Manzil Temple

Climb up the 13-story temple for panoramic views of the river and town; small donation suggested.
INR 20 per person, 1h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at The Sitting Elephant

Relax with a mix of Indian and continental affordable food options with a view.
INR 150-220 per person, 1h0m

3:00pm

Relax by Ganga Beach or attend an afternoon meditation class

Spend peaceful time by the river, or engage in a low-cost group meditation session.
Free or INR 100 per person, 2h0m

6:00pm

Sunset at Ram Jhula and local snack street food

Sample local street food like kachori and chai at popular stalls near Ram Jhula.
INR 50 per person, 1h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at Chotiwala Restaurant

Affordable authentic Indian vegetarian cuisine.
INR 120-180 per person, 1h0m
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Day 5: Return Journey

Rishikesh to Kolkata, India on October 9, 2025

6:00am

Early morning shared taxi from Rishikesh to Haridwar

Begin your return journey with a shared taxi to catch the train back to Kolkata.
INR 50-100 per person, 1h0m

8:00am

Train from Haridwar to Kolkata

Board train back to Kolkata; overnight journey in sleeper class for budget travellers.
INR 800 per person, 15h0m

10:00pm

Arrival in Kolkata

Reach Kolkata late evening with wonderful memories from the Rishikesh budget trip.
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