Day 1: Arrival in Haridwar – Spiritual Start

Arrive at Haridwar railway station and transfer to your hotel. After freshening up, explore Har Ki Pauri, one of India’s holiest ghats. Attend the enchanting Ganga Aarti in the evening, where lamps float on the river in a spiritual spectacle. Visit Mansa Devi Temple via ropeway or walk the stairs. Explore local shops for rudraksha beads, idols, and spiritual souvenirs. For dinner, try local thali at Mohan Ji Puri Wale or aloo puri from a street vendor. Overnight stay in Haridwar.

Day 2: Haridwar to Rishikesh – Yoga, Cafés & Adventure

After breakfast, drive to Rishikesh and check in to your hotel or river-view guesthouse. Begin the day with a spiritual visit to Triveni Ghat followed by a walk through Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula, lined with sadhus, bookshops, and ashrams. Enjoy a serene lunch at Beatles Café or Little Buddha Café. In the afternoon, you can choose to go river rafting on the Ganga (seasonal), or visit the iconic Beatles Ashram known for its graffiti-covered walls and peaceful surroundings. Attend the evening Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan—less crowded and deeply soulful. Dine at a rooftop café with views of the illuminated ghats.
Travel Tip: Wear water shoes or sandals if rafting, and book your rafting slot early in the day to avoid last-minute rush. Carry a power bank for exploring remote spots like the ashram.

Day 3: Explore Rishikesh – Temples, Waterfalls & Wellness

Start early with a morning yoga or meditation session at a local ashram like Phool Chatti or Sivananda. After breakfast, drive to Neer Garh Waterfall for a scenic trek through forested trails. Carry water and snacks as the climb can be moderate. Post-lunch, explore the temples near Swarg Ashram or try Ayurvedic massages. For adventure lovers, there’s bungee jumping and zip-lining available at Mohan Chatti. Wind down your day with herbal chai at a Ganga-facing café and dinner featuring local Garhwali cuisine like Mandua roti and Gahat dal.
Travel Tip: For the waterfall trek, start before noon and wear sturdy footwear. If doing bungee, avoid heavy meals beforehand and confirm medical requirements in advance.

Day 4: Rishikesh to Chakrata – Into the Pines

Post breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Chakrata, a lesser-known hill station known for its untouched beauty and dense forests. The drive offers panoramic views, winding roads, and pine-scented air. Check into a rustic homestay or mountain-view hotel. After a late lunch, take a gentle walk through Deoban forest to unwind. If time permits, catch the golden hues of sunset at Chirmiri Top, a peaceful meadow perfect for photography and silence. Enjoy a simple but hearty dinner with local flavors like bhatt ki dal and jhangora kheer.
Travel Tip: Chakrata has limited ATM access and weak phone signals—carry sufficient cash and inform family beforehand. Nights are colder even in summer, so pack thermals or a light jacket.

Day 5: Chakrata – Tiger Falls & Nature Trails

Wake up early to explore Tiger Falls, one of India’s highest direct waterfalls. It’s a 5 km trek through quaint villages and deodar forests. Carry water and a snack; the trail is beautiful but moderately steep. Enjoy time near the base of the fall—perfect for photos and a quiet moment with nature. Head back by noon and visit Budher Caves in the afternoon, believed to be linked to the Mahabharata era. Explore local markets in Chakrata town for woolens or handmade crafts. End your day around a bonfire with dinner under starlit skies.
Travel Tip: Wear good trekking shoes, and avoid going alone to remote cave areas—opt for a local guide. Carry a flashlight or torch in case you return late from the trek.

Day 6: Departure – Chakrata to Dehradun (3.5 hrs)

After breakfast, check out and begin your return journey to Dehradun. You can plan a stop at Kalsi to visit the Ashokan Rock Edict site, which holds ancient inscriptions and is ideal for history lovers. Reach Dehradun by afternoon for your onward train or flight. If time allows, enjoy a quick meal at a local favorite like Doon Darbar or Ellora’s bakery for baked goodies to carry home.
Travel Tip: Leave early to account for winding roads and unexpected delays. Book return transportation in advance as local taxis may be limited in Chakrata.