3-Day Spiritual and Nature Retreat in Haridwar and Rishikesh

Day 1: Haridwar Panchatirthas

Haridwar, India on July 2, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hoshiyar Puri

Start your day with a traditional North Indian breakfast of stuffed puris and aloo sabzi at this popular local spot, known for its authentic flavours and proximity to Har Ki Pauri.
INR150, 0h45m

8:00am

Visit Har Ki Pauri

Explore the most famous and sacred ghat of Haridwar where pilgrims come to bathe in the Ganges. The morning aura here is serene and the ghats less crowded than in the evening.
Free, 1h30m

9:45am

Explore the Panchatirthas

Visit the five sacred pilgrim spots: Gangadwara, Kushwaha, Bilwa Tirtha, Neel Parvat, and Parvat Tirtha, which are all within walking distance. Each spot offers a unique spiritual significance and scenic views.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Chotiwala Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional vegetarian thali at this iconic restaurant which has served pilgrims and tourists for over 125 years, giving you a hearty and authentic local meal.
INR300, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Mansa Devi Temple

Take the cable car ride to this sacred hilltop temple dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, offering panoramic views of the city below and an immersive spiritual experience.
INR150 for cable car, 2h

5:00pm

Evening Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri

Witness the soul-stirring Ganga Aarti – a ritual with fire lamps and hymns that draws crowds daily. It’s a quintessential Haridwar experience that reflects deep devotion and mesmerizing ritual.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Mohan Ji Puri Wale

Conclude your day with delicious stuffed puris and sweets at this well-known local eatery, which is open late and frequently visited by travellers and locals alike.
INR150, 1h

Day 2: Neelkanth Mahadev Excursion

Haridwar to Neelkanth Mahadev, India on July 3, 2025

6:30am

Early Breakfast at hotel or local eatery

Have a quick and energising breakfast with local staples like parantha or idli to prepare for the day’s trek and temple visit.
INR150, 0h30m

7:30am

Travel to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Drive approximately 32 km to the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, nestled in the lush forests of the Rajaji National Park area. This Shiva temple is deeply revered and offers a tranquil natural setting.
INR300 (taxi fare approx.), 1h

8:45am

Visit Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Spend time exploring the temple premises, admiring the architecture and soaking in the spiritual atmosphere amidst serene hills and forest.
Free, 2h

11:00am

Light trekking and nature walk

Enjoy a nature walk to nearby waterfalls or viewpoints to experience the area's natural beauty. This is a peaceful time to unwind and reflect.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at local dhaba on route to Rishikesh

Taste rustic and authentic local cuisine with simple but flavourful North Indian dishes on your way to Rishikesh.
INR200, 1h

2:00pm

Travel to Rishikesh

A short 30-minute drive to Rishikesh, your base for exploring Kunjapuri Devi Temple and other local attractions.
INR200 (taxi fare approx.), 0h30m

3:00pm

Check-in and rest at hotel in Rishikesh

Freshen up and relax after the day’s travel and sightseeing.
Varies, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Little Buddha Cafe

Dine on wholesome and healthy cuisine featuring local and international vegetarian dishes in a vibrant ambiance on the banks of the Ganges.
INR400, 1h30m

Day 3: Kunjapuri Devi Temple & Rishikesh

Rishikesh, India on July 4, 2025

5:00am

Early breakfast and depart for Kunjapuri Devi Temple

Have an early light breakfast with tea and biscuits, then drive or take a taxi approximately 24 km uphill to the revered hilltop temple famous for sunrise views over the Himalayas and Ganges.
INR300 for taxi and INR100 for breakfast, 1h30m

6:30am

Sunrise at Kunjapuri Devi Temple

Witness a breathtaking sunrise amidst panoramic views of Himalayan peaks and the holy Ganges valley, a deeply spiritual and serene experience.
Free, 1h

7:30am

Temple visit and meditation

Spend some quiet time exploring the temple complex and engaging in meditation or prayers in this tranquil environment.
Free, 1h

9:00am

Return to Rishikesh and breakfast at The Sitting Elephant

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast with options like poha, fresh fruit salads, and world cuisine dishes in a cosy and vibrant café.
INR350, 1h

10:30am

Explore Rishikesh local sights

Visit Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula bridges, and stroll along the Ganges to enjoy riverside cafes, shops, and temples reflecting the spiritual heart of Rishikesh.
Free, 3h

2:00pm

Lunch at Pure Soul Cafe & Organic Kitchen

Relish fresh organic vegetarian cuisine focusing on health and taste, perfect for a relaxed afternoon meal.
INR400, 1h

3:30pm

Attend a Yoga session or visit an ashram

Partake in an introductory yoga class or visit the Parmarth Niketan Ashram to experience spiritual practices and learn about yogic traditions.
INR500 (class fee approx.), 2h

6:00pm

Evening Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan

Join the calm and beautifully orchestrated evening aarti by the river, which is less crowded than Haridwar but equally spiritual.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Chatsang Cafe

Enjoy delicious Tibetan and North Indian vegetarian dishes in a relaxed setting beside the Ganges, making a perfect end to the trip.
INR400, 1h