Spiritual Sojourn: A 5-Day Journey through Haridwar & Rishikesh

1

Day 1 - Arrival in Holy Haridwar & Ganga Aarti

Thursday, January 15, 2026
+1
Activities
5

Arrival at Dehradun & Transfer to Haridwar

Jolly Grant Airport (DED), Dehradun
Pre-paid taxi counters are available right outside the arrival hall. It's the most hassle-free option. Ensure you have cash for the taxi.

Check-in at Hotel in Haridwar

Near Har Ki Pauri, Haridwar
Consider hotels like Ganga Lahari or Haveli Hari Ganga for a heritage experience with river views. Book in advance as January is a popular season.

Late Lunch at Hoshiyar Puri

Upper Road, Haridwar
The place is often crowded, so be prepared for a short wait. It's a no-frills, authentic dining experience.

Witness the Grand Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri

Har Ki Pauri, Haridwar
Arrive at least an hour early (around 4:30 PM) to get a good viewing spot. Be mindful of your belongings in the crowd. You can also hire a local boat for a different perspective from the river.

Dinner & Exploring Moti Bazar

Moti Bazar, Haridwar
This is a great place for souvenir shopping, especially for religious items, rudraksha beads, and Ayurvedic products.
2

Day 2 - Haridwar's Temples & Journey to Rishikesh

Friday, January 16, 2026
+2
Activities
6

Visit Mansa Devi Temple via Cable Car

Mansa Devi Temple, Haridwar
Buy a combined ticket for both Mansa Devi and Chandi Devi cable cars to save time and money. Go early to avoid long queues.

Breakfast at Mohan Ji Puri Wale

Near Har Ki Pauri, Haridwar
It's a very popular spot, known for its authentic taste. A must-try local experience.

Travel from Haridwar to Rishikesh

Haridwar
Ask your hotel to arrange a reliable taxi. You can also use ride-hailing apps.

Check-in at Rishikesh Hotel/Ashram

Tapovan, Rishikesh
Consider options like Aloha on the Ganges (luxury), EllBee Ganga View (mid-range), or a room at an ashram like Parmarth Niketan for a more immersive experience.

Evening Stroll across Ram Jhula

Ram Jhula, Rishikesh
The bridge is for pedestrians and two-wheelers only. Be mindful of monkeys who are known to snatch food items.

Dinner at The Sitting Elephant

Hotel EllBee Ganga View, Rishikesh
Book a table in advance, especially for a riverside seat. It's a perfect spot for a peaceful and scenic meal.
3

Day 3 - The Beatles, Ashrams & Rishikesh Aarti

Saturday, January 17, 2026
+2
Activities
6

Morning Yoga & Meditation Session

Tapovan, Rishikesh
Look for studios like Anand Prakash Yoga Ashram or Sattva Yoga Academy. Wear comfortable clothing. No prior experience is necessary for beginner classes.

Healthy Breakfast at a Local Cafe

Tapovan, Rishikesh
Try The Beatles Cafe or Freedom Cafe for great food and relaxed vibes.

Explore The Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia)

Swarg Ashram, Rishikesh
The entry fee for foreigners is INR 600. Wear sturdy shoes as it involves a bit of walking. The artwork and the quiet ambiance make it a photographer's delight.

Lunch at Chotiwala Restaurant

Swarg Ashram, near Ram Jhula
There are two Chotiwala restaurants side-by-side; both are part of the original family and offer similar quality.

Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram

Parmarth Niketan Ashram, Rishikesh
Arrive by 4:30 PM to get a seat on the steps of the ghat. Participants are often invited to join in the singing and release flower-filled diyas into the river.

Dinner at a Cafe in Swarg Ashram

Swarg Ashram, Rishikesh
Many cafes here offer organic and sattvic food options, aligning with the spiritual vibe of the area.
4

Day 4 - Nature's Trail & Laxman Jhula's Vibe

Sunday, January 18, 2026
+1
Activities
5

Morning Trek to Neer Garh Waterfall

Neer Garh Waterfall Road, Rishikesh
Hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi to the starting point of the trek. The trek itself is about 1-1.5 km. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

Weather Backup: Ayurvedic Massage or Cooking Class

Various locations in Rishikesh
This is a great alternative to relax and immerse yourself in local culture. Book your session a day in advance.

Lunch at a German Bakery near Laxman Jhula

Laxman Jhula, Rishikesh
Try the apple crumble or cinnamon rolls. These cafes are popular hangouts for international travelers.

Explore Laxman Jhula & Trayambakeshwar Temple

Laxman Jhula, Rishikesh
You can climb to the top of the temple for a fantastic view of the surroundings. The market here is great for clothes, jewelry, and books.

Evening Coffee at a Riverside Cafe

Laxman Jhula area, Rishikesh
Little Buddha Cafe is a popular choice for its tiered seating and excellent river views.
5

Day 5 - Himalayan Sunrise & Departure

Monday, January 19, 2026
Activities
4

Early Morning Drive to Kunjapuri Temple

Rishikesh
Book a taxi the previous night for this trip. It's about a 1-hour drive from Rishikesh. Carry a warm jacket as it will be very cold.

Sunrise over the Himalayas from Kunjapuri

Kunjapuri Temple
This is a truly magical experience and a perfect end to your spiritual journey. The temple itself is a Shakti Peeth and holds great religious significance.

Breakfast back in Rishikesh

Rishikesh
This is a good time for some last-minute souvenir shopping for items like organic honey, Ayurvedic herbs, or yoga accessories.

Transfer to Dehradun Airport for Departure

Rishikesh
Allow at least 1 hour for the journey to the airport and arrive 2 hours before your flight's departure time.
Travel FAQs

Q.What is the best time to visit Haridwar and Rishikesh?

The best time to visit is from September to November and from February to April when the weather is pleasant. Your trave...

Q.How to reach Haridwar and Rishikesh?

The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun, about 35 km from Haridwar and 20 km from Rishikesh. Haridw...

Q.What are some famous local food items to try?

In Haridwar, you must try Aloo Puri at Mohan Ji Puri Wale and the sweets at Mathura Walo ki Pracheen Dukan. In Rishikesh...

Q.What are some local tips and do’s/don’ts?

Do: Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and ashrams. Remove footwear before entering religious places. Resp...

Q.What should I pack for a trip in January?

Pack warm clothes in layers: thermal wear, fleece jackets, a warm outer jacket, a cap, and gloves for the cold mornings ...

Q.Is it safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, both Haridwar and Rishikesh are generally considered safe for solo female travelers. However, it's advisable to tak...

Q.What about adventure sports like rafting in January?

River rafting is generally open in January, but the water is extremely cold. It's only recommended for those who can bra...