7-Day Cultural and Spiritual Journey from Varanasi to Rishikesh via Historic Towns

Day 1: Explore Varanasi

Varanasi, India on June 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Kashi Chaat Bhandar

Start your day with traditional Varanasi breakfast including kachori and chai at this popular local spot that opens early, perfect for energising your day.
INR150, 1h0m

8:30am

Morning Boat Ride on the Ganges

Experience the spiritual essence and scenic beauty of Varanasi with a sunrise boat ride along the Ganges, passing by ancient ghats and witnessing morning rituals.
INR300, 2h0m

11:00am

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore this iconic Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the holy shrines of Shiva in India.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Baati Chokha Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Bihari cuisine in a traditional atmosphere, featuring local delicacies like litti chokha.
INR350, 1h0m

3:00pm

Explore Varanasi Ghats and Old City

Wander through the historic ghats and bustling lanes of Varanasi’s old city, soaking in the culture, markets, and architecture.
Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Attend Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Witness the mesmerizing evening fire ceremony on the Ganges river, a revered spiritual ritual attracting devotees and tourists alike.
Free, 1h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at The Palate

Dine in a cosy setting offering a fusion of traditional and modern Indian dishes, perfect to unwind after a long day.
INR600, 1h0m
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Day 2: Travel & Explore Allahabad

Allahabad (Prayagraj), India on June 9, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel or local café

Enjoy a light breakfast before departure, sampling some local favourites to fuel your journey.
INR200, 0h45m

8:00am

Travel from Varanasi to Allahabad by train or car

A 3-4 hour journey covering about 200 km, choose a comfortable travel mode for a seamless transition to Allahabad.
INR500-800, 4h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Indian Coffee House

Relish simple Indian dishes in a historic coffee house that has been a hub of culture and conversation.
INR250, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Triveni Sangam

Explore the sacred confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna and mythical Saraswati rivers, a significant pilgrimage spot.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Allahabad Fort

Tour the impressive 16th-century fort built by Emperor Akbar, featuring beautiful architecture and historical significance.
INR40, 1h30m

6:00pm

Evening walk in Company Garden

Relax in the lush botanical garden with colourful blooms and peaceful paths, perfect for unwinding after sightseeing.
INR20, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Peshawri

Enjoy North Indian and Mughlai cuisine, specialising in kebabs and hearty dishes in a traditional setting.
INR700, 1h0m
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Day 3: Kaushambi & Travel to Haridwar

Kaushambi & Haridwar, India on June 10, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a nourishing breakfast before setting out to Kaushambi for a half day visit.
INR200, 0h45m

8:00am

Travel to Kaushambi

Around 45-minute drive from Allahabad to visit the ancient archaeological site.
INR400 (taxi), 0h45m

9:00am

Explore Kaushambi Archaeological Park

Visit the ruins of the ancient city and Buddhist stupas that offer insight into early Indian history and spirituality.
INR50, 2h0m

11:30am

Return to Allahabad and depart for Haridwar

Begin the approximately 7-hour journey by train or car to Haridwar, ideally taking a comfortable mode for the longer trip.
INR800-1000, 7h0m

6:30pm

Arrive and Check-in to hotel in Haridwar

Rest and freshen up at your accommodation in preparation for the next days of spiritual exploration.
Varies, N/A

7:30pm

Dinner at Chotiwala Restaurant

Savour wholesome vegetarian meals and traditional sweets at this famous Haridwar eatery.
INR500, 1h0m
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Day 4: Discover Haridwar

Haridwar, India on June 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with Indian and continental options to start the day.
INR250, 0h45m

8:30am

Visit Mansa Devi Temple by Cable Car

Take a cable car ride offering scenic views and visit the temple atop the hill dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi.
INR100, 2h0m

11:00am

Explore Har Ki Pauri Ghat

Stroll along the famous ghat known for its spiritual significance and daily rituals along the Ganges.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Hoshiyar Puri

Taste traditional vegetarian dishes and sweets in this long-standing local favourite.
INR400, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Bharat Mata Mandir and Shantikunj

Explore these cultural and spiritual landmarks promoting peace and Indian heritage.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Attend Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri

Experience a grand spiritual ceremony with hymns and fire rituals in the evening.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Punjabi Zaika

Delight in authentic Punjabi cuisine offering rich flavours and comfortable ambience.
INR600, 1h0m
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Day 5: Rishikesh Arrival & Sightseeing

Rishikesh, India on June 12, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Prepare yourself for travel with a nutritious breakfast.
INR250, 0h45m

8:00am

Travel from Haridwar to Rishikesh

A short 1-hour drive of about 20 km, offering beautiful views en route to this yoga and spiritual town.
INR300, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula

Walk across these iconic suspension bridges over the Ganges, visiting temples and ashrams along the way.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Pure Soul Café & Organic Kitchen

Enjoy healthy, organic vegetarian food in a peaceful setting by the river.
INR600, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia)

Explore the abandoned ashram made famous by the Beatles’ visit in the 1960s; open from 8am to 6pm.
INR200, 2h0m

4:00pm

Relax at the Ganges Beach

Enjoy a serene moment along the riverbank, ideal for meditation or quiet reflection.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Chotiwala Restaurant, Rishikesh

Spend your evening dining on pure vegetarian dishes in a local renowned restaurant.
INR500, 1h0m
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Day 6: Rishikesh Adventure & Spirituality

Rishikesh, India on June 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a fresh breakfast with options for health-conscious travellers.
INR250, 0h45m

8:30am

Yoga Session at an Ashram

Join a morning yoga class at one of Rishikesh’s famous ashrams like Parmarth Niketan to experience authentic spiritual practice.
INR500, 1h30m

10:30am

White Water Rafting on the Ganges

Experience thrilling rapids on a guided rafting tour; make sure to book ahead. Operates typically 9am to 4pm.
INR1500, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Sitting Elephant

Enjoy a mix of Indian and international cuisine in this riverside café known for fresh ingredients and calm ambiance.
INR600, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Neer Garh Waterfall

Take a 30 minute trek to this beautiful waterfall that’s perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
INR50, 2h0m

6:00pm

Attend Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram

Witness a beautiful and peaceful aarti ceremony on the riverbank, open to all visitors.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Little Buddha Café

Dine in a laid-back environment offering a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.
INR700, 1h0m
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Day 7: Final Day in Rishikesh

Rishikesh, India on June 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a relaxed breakfast to prepare for your last day’s exploration or departure.
INR250, 0h45m

9:00am

Visit the Gita Bhawan and Swarg Ashram Area

Explore these two important spiritual sites along the Ganges, quiet and rich in religious heritage.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Shopping in Rishikesh Market

Browse local handicrafts, yoga apparel, and souvenirs in the vibrant market streets.
Varies, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Ganga View Café

Enjoy your meal with stunning views of the river, offering tasty and healthy dishes.
INR600, 1h0m

2:30pm

Departure preparations and transit to airport/railway station

Arrange your transport for onward journey, departing from Rishikesh with memories of a spiritual and cultural journey.
Varies, N/A
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