5-Day Backpacking Journey: Haridwar to Rishikesh, Dehradun, Mussoorie & Dhanaulti Using Public Transport and Hostels

Day 1: Haridwar Departure, Rishikesh Arrival

Haridwar to Rishikesh, India on June 6, 2025

1:00pm

Light Lunch at Chotiwala, Haridwar

Have a quick but wholesome vegetarian meal before heading out, famous for their traditional Indian thalis.
INR200, 1h0m

2:30pm

Travel to Rishikesh by Bus

Boarding a state transport bus from Haridwar bus stand to Rishikesh (about 1 hour journey).
INR40 per person, 1h0m

4:00pm

Check-in Hostel - Zostel Rishikesh

Settle into your affordable and friendly dormitory accommodation near Laxman Jhula.
INR650 per person, Overnight

5:00pm

Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan

Witness the spiritually uplifting evening Ganga Aarti ceremony in a peaceful ashram setting. Starts around 5pm.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Pure Soul Cafe and Organic Kitchen

Enjoy fresh, organic, and healthy vegetarian dishes in a calm riverside environment.
INR300, 1h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Rishikesh Full Day

Rishikesh, India on June 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at German Bakery

Start with freshly baked goods and good coffee at this local favorite right near the river.
INR300, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula

Stroll across these iconic suspension bridges and visit nearby temples and shops.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia)

Explore this historic ashram with psychedelic graffiti and the peaceful forest around it. Open 9am-6pm.
INR150 per person, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Chatsang Cafe

Enjoy flavor-packed North Indian and continental dishes in a relaxed cafe setting.
INR350, 1h0m

2:30pm

Rishikesh Market Exploration

Browse local handicrafts, souvenirs, and spiritual items on the bustling high street.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Triveni Ghat

Relax and observe pilgrims performing rituals on this serene riverfront ghat.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Evening Yoga Session at The Yoga Niketan

Join a beginner-friendly yoga session offered every evening to rejuvenate your body and mind.
INR250 per person, 1h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at Bubble Cafe

A fusion cafe offering varied vegetarian dishes, perfect for winding down the day.
INR300, 1h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Dehradun Sightseeing

Dehradun, India on June 8, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Dehradun by Bus

Board an early morning bus from Rishikesh to Dehradun, approximately 1.5 hour journey.
INR50 per person, 1h30m

8:30am

Breakfast at Cafe De Piccolo

Enjoy hearty continental breakfast including eggs, toast, and coffee in Dehradun town.
INR300, 1h0m

10:00am

Robber's Cave (Guchhupani)

Explore the fascinating natural cave with a stream flowing inside, popular for local picnics. Open 9am-5pm.
INR20 per person, 2h0m

12:30pm

Check-in Hostel - Backpacker Panda Dehradun

Store luggage and freshen up at this popular budget-friendly hostel in central Dehradun.
INR550 per person, Overnight

1:00pm

Lunch at Kalsang Friends Corner

Savor authentic Tibetan and North Indian dishes in a local favorite restaurant.
INR350, 1h0m

2:30pm

Sahastradhara

Visit the scenic spring and waterfall area surrounded by lush greenery. Entry fee is nominal. Open till 6pm.
INR50 per person, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Forest Research Institute Museum and Grounds

Walk and explore the beautiful colonial architecture and lush grounds. Museum closes at 5:30pm.
INR30 per person, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Black Pepper Restaurant

Dine on varied delicious multi-cuisine dishes with excellent hygiene and ambiance.
INR400, 1h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Mussoorie Experience

Mussoorie, India on June 9, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Mussoorie by Bus

Take a morning bus from Dehradun to Mussoorie (2 hours). Enjoy scenic mountain roads.
INR60 per person, 2h0m

9:30am

Breakfast at Cafe Ivy on Mall Road

Start your day with freshly brewed coffee and breakfast pastries at this cozy cafe.
INR350, 1h0m

10:30am

Visit Kempty Falls

Explore this popular waterfall destination 15 km from Mussoorie known for its refreshing cascades. Opens at 9am.
INR30 per person, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Char Dukan

Sample local street food such as momos, chowmein and steaming cups of tea at this iconic food cluster.
INR200, 1h0m

2:30pm

Gun Hill

Ride the ropeway or hike to Gun Hill viewpoint for sweeping panoramas of the Himalayan ranges.
INR150 per person ropeway, 2h0m

5:00pm

Check-in Hostel - The Hosteller Mussoorie

Settle into this comfortable, budget-friendly hostel with great views and friendly vibe.
INR700 per person, Overnight

7:30pm

Dinner at Kalsang Friends Corner Mussoorie

Enjoy authentic Tibetan cuisine including momos and thukpa in this popular local spot.
INR350, 1h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Dhanaulti Day Trip & Return

Dhanaulti and Haridwar, India on June 10, 2025

6:30am

Travel to Dhanaulti by Shared Taxi/Bus

Depart early for Dhanaulti by shared taxi or local bus from Mussoorie (approx. 1 hour travel).
INR80 per person, 1h0m

7:30am

Breakfast at The Orchard Cafe, Dhanaulti

Enjoy fresh organic food with peaceful orchard views to start your morning.
INR300, 1h0m

8:30am

Explore Eco Park and Himalayan Oak Forest

Take nature walks and enjoy the biodiversity in this serene high-altitude park. Open 8am-6pm.
INR50 per person, 2h0m

10:30am

Visit Surkanda Devi Temple

Short trek or local transport to this hilltop temple offering splendid mountain views.
Free, 1h30m

12:00pm

Return to Haridwar by Bus/Taxi

Begin journey back to Haridwar (approx. 3.5 hours), aiming to arrive before 4:30pm.
INR250 per person, 3h30m
View Hotel Availability