8 day itinerary for Haridwar, Rishikesh

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Haridwar

• Start your trip by visiting Har Ki Pauri, the famous ghat on the banks of the Ganges River. Witness the evening Ganga Aarti, a mesmerizing spiritual ceremony.
• Explore the nearby markets for some local shopping and try out delicious street food.

Day 2: Haridwar Exploration

• Begin the day by visiting Mansa Devi Temple, located on top of Bilwa Parvat. Enjoy the panoramic views of Haridwar from the cable car ride.
• Visit Chandi Devi Temple, situated on the Neel Parvat. You can either trek up or take the cable car to reach the temple.
• Spend the evening at Rajaji National Park, a perfect place for nature lovers. Enjoy a safari and spot various wildlife species.

Day 3: Rishikesh Adventure

• Head to Rishikesh, known as the "Yoga Capital of the World." Start your day with a yoga or meditation session at one of the ashrams.
• Visit the iconic Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula, suspension bridges over the Ganges River. Enjoy the serene views and explore the nearby markets.
• Indulge in some adventure activities like river rafting, cliff jumping, or bungee jumping, depending on your family's preferences.

Day 4: Spiritual Rishikesh

• Begin the day by visiting the famous Triveni Ghat for a holy dip in the Ganges River and witness the evening Ganga Aarti.
• Explore the spiritual side of Rishikesh by visiting the Beatles Ashram, where the Beatles stayed in the 1960s. Experience the tranquil atmosphere and admire the graffiti art.
• Visit the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, located amidst the lush green forests. It is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva consumed the poison during the churning of the ocean.

Day 5: Haridwar Heritage

• Explore the historical side of Haridwar by visiting the Haridwar Museum, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region.
• Visit the Maya Devi Temple, one of the Siddh Peethas and an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.
• Spend the evening at Haridwar's famous parks like Haridwar-Rajaji National Park or Haridwar Bird Sanctuary, where you can enjoy nature walks and bird watching.

Day 6: Excursion to Chilla Range

• Take a day trip to Chilla Range, part of Rajaji National Park, known for its diverse flora and fauna.
• Enjoy a jeep safari or an elephant safari to explore the wilderness and spot animals like elephants, tigers, leopards, and various bird species.
• Take a picnic lunch amidst the scenic surroundings and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

Day 7: Ganges Riverside Retreat

• Spend a day relaxing by the riverside. Choose a serene spot along the Ganges River and enjoy a picnic with your family.
• Take a dip in the holy river and experience the spiritual vibes of the place.
• Enjoy activities like yoga, meditation, or simply unwind and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Day 8: Departure

• Before bidding farewell to Haridwar and Rishikesh, visit the Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Seek blessings for a safe journey ahead.
• Take some time to explore the local markets for souvenirs and handicrafts.
• Depart with beautiful memories of your family-friendly, adventurous, and spiritual journey in Haridwar and Rishikesh.