Rishikesh

Haridwar and Rishikesh are two popular destinations in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand, known for their spiritual significance and natural beauty. They are located relatively close to each other, so you can easily plan a day trip from Haridwar to Rishikesh. Here’s a suggested itinerary:

Morning:

1. Start Early: Begin your day early in the morning to make the most of your trip.
2. Visit Har Ki Pauri: Head to Har Ki Pauri, a famous ghat on the banks of the Ganges River in Haridwar. This is a sacred place where you can witness the daily Ganga Aarti. The Aarti takes place at sunrise and sunset. If you’re starting your day early, you can catch the morning Aarti, which is a serene and spiritual experience.

Mid-Morning:

3. Breakfast: After the Aarti, have breakfast at a local restaurant in Haridwar. You can try some delicious local dishes or opt for your preferred cuisine.

Late Morning:

4. Drive to Rishikesh: After breakfast, take a taxi or drive to Rishikesh. The distance between the two cities is approximately 20 kilometers, and the drive should take around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.

Rishikesh Sightseeing:

Mid-Day:

5. Laxman Jhula: Once you arrive in Rishikesh, visit Laxman Jhula, a famous suspension bridge across the Ganges River. You can walk on the bridge and explore the surrounding area. There are numerous shops, cafes, and temples in the vicinity.

Afternoon:

6. Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Indian lunch at a local restaurant in Rishikesh. There are many restaurants that offer vegetarian and vegan options.

7. Ram Jhula: After lunch, head to Ram Jhula, another iconic suspension bridge in Rishikesh. Explore the area around Ram Jhula, which is known for its spiritual ambiance and shopping options.

Late Afternoon:

8. Explore the Temples: Visit some of the prominent temples in Rishikesh, such as the Trayambakeshwar Temple and the Bharat Mandir. Take your time to soak in the spiritual atmosphere.

Evening:

9. Attend the Ganga Aarti: Just like in Haridwar, Rishikesh also has a beautiful Ganga Aarti ceremony that takes place at Triveni Ghat. The Triveni Ghat Aarti is a must-see and is usually held during the evening.

Dinner:

10. Dinner in Rishikesh: After the Aarti, have dinner at a local restaurant in Rishikesh. You can choose from a variety of dining options, including vegetarian, vegan, and international cuisine.

Return to Haridwar:

11. Drive Back to Haridwar: After dinner, you can drive back to Haridwar, which is around 20 kilometers away. Ensure you plan your departure so that you return to Haridwar safely.

Please note that this is a general itinerary, and the actual timing of events and your personal preferences may vary. Make sure to check the timings of the Ganga Aarti in both Haridwar and Rishikesh to plan your visit accordingly. Also, consider the season and local holidays, as they might affect the schedule and crowd.