Scenic 5-Day Journey from Manali to Rishikesh: Mountain Views to Spiritual Vibes

Day 1: Manali to Joginder Nagar

Manali, India to Joginder Nagar, India on June 6, 2025

12:00pm

Depart Manali

Start your journey early afternoon heading south towards Joginder Nagar, enjoying the scenic mountain roads.
INR0, 5h0m

5:00pm

Check-in and Rest

Arrive in Joginder Nagar and check into a local guesthouse to relax after the long drive.
INR1500, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Aapne Aap Dhaba

Enjoy a hearty North Indian dinner at this popular local dhaba known for its flavorful dal makhani and parathas.
INR300, 1h0m

Day 2: Explore Joginder Nagar and Head to Yamnotri

Joginder Nagar, India to Yamnotri, India on June 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start the day with traditional Himachali breakfast including chana madra and sel roti, available at your guesthouse.
INR200, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Yamnotri

Set off on a scenic 4-5 hour drive toward Yamnotri, the origin of the Yamuna River and an important Hindu pilgrimage site.
INR0, 5h0m

2:00pm

Lunch Break at Local Restaurant

Stop for a simple yet delicious vegetarian thali lunch to enjoy local Garhwali flavors.
INR350, 1h0m

3:30pm

Yamnotri Trek (Short Visit)

If time permits, take a short trek to the Yamnotri temple area to witness the glacier and hot springs before sunset (temple open till 6:30pm).
INR50, 1h30m

5:30pm

Overnight Stay near Yamnotri

Check into a guesthouse or dharamshala near Yamnotri to rest before continuing to Uttarkashi.
INR1500, overnight

Day 3: Yamnotri to Uttarkashi

Yamnotri, India to Uttarkashi, India on June 8, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Guesthouse

Enjoy a rustic Himachali breakfast featuring suji halwa and tea to energize before driving onward.
INR200, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive to Uttarkashi

Begin the 5-hour drive to Uttarkashi, a gateway town for temples and spiritual learning.
INR0, 5h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Mountain Cafe

Relax with a light lunch specializing in momos and fresh juices to recharge after the drive.
INR400, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Vishwanath Temple

Explore this important regional Shiva temple that draws many pilgrims; open till 7:00pm.
INR0, 1h0m

5:00pm

Explore Uttarkashi Town

Stroll the town markets and enjoy the peaceful ambiance along the Bhagirathi River.
INR0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Restaurant

Savor a Garhwali meal including chainsoo dal and rice to complete your day with local flavors.
INR350, 1h0m

Day 4: Uttarkashi to Rishikesh

Uttarkashi, India to Rishikesh, India on June 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a filling breakfast of parathas and local herbal tea.
INR200, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Rishikesh

Travel approximately 3.5 hours to Rishikesh, the ‘Yoga Capital of the World’ and a spiritual hub.
INR0, 3h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Sitting Elephant

Enjoy a farm-to-table meal with Indian and international choices in a serene garden setting.
INR500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Triveni Ghat

Explore this sacred confluence of three rivers where pilgrims perform rituals; great for photography and spiritual atmosphere.
INR0, 1h0m

3:00pm

Attend Yoga Session

Join a beginner-friendly yoga class at a reputable ashram like Parmarth Niketan; classes typically run 1-2 hours.
INR500, 1h30m

6:00pm

Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan

Experience the spectacular evening Ganga Aarti by the river, a mesmerizing spiritual ceremony open to all.
INR0, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Chotiwala Restaurant

Dine on traditional North Indian vegetarian dishes in a historic and beloved local restaurant.
INR400, 1h0m

Day 5: Explore Rishikesh

Rishikesh, India on June 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Nirvana

Start your last day with wholesome organic breakfast options and fresh juices.
INR350, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Beatles Ashram

Explore the iconic ashram featured in Beatles lore, now open as an artistic and spiritual park (open 9am–5pm).
INR150, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk Across Laxman Jhula

Experience crossing the suspension bridge over the Ganges with scenic views and small shops nearby.
INR0, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Pure Soul Cafe & Organic Kitchen

Enjoy fresh organic meals with vegan options along the riverbank ensuring a healthy lunch experience.
INR450, 1h0m

2:30pm

Relax at Riverfront Park

Spend your afternoon relaxing by the Ganges, soaking in the spiritual atmosphere and natural beauty.
INR0, 2h0m

5:00pm

Evening Coffee at Little Buddha Cafe

Unwind with a coffee or chai at this charming spot known for its laid-back vibe and good snacks.
INR200, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ganga View

Conclude your trip with dinner overlooking the holy river, savoring Indian and continental dishes.
INR600, 1h30m