3 Days in Haridwar for Adventure Trip

Haridwar isn't just about spirituality; it's a playground for thrill-seekers too. I've spent countless weekends here rafting down the Ganges, trekking through Rajaji National Park, and soaking in the lively vibe of the ghats. This itinerary packs in the best adventures without missing the city's soul.

Uttarakhand, uttarakhand
3 Days
Adventure
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

White-water rafting on the Ganges with stunning Himalayan views
Sunrise trek to Chandi Devi Temple for a peaceful start to the day
Jungle safari in Rajaji National Park spotting elephants and tigers
Evening Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri - pure magic on the water

Best Time to Visit

MarchOctober

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Day 1

Day 1 in Haridwar

Start your journey in Haridwar with its spiritual heart, exploring iconic ghats, temples, and the famous Ganga Aarti. Dive into the local culture and flavors with a mix of must-see sights and authentic food stops.

Activities

Morning at Har Ki Pauri
Morning at Har Ki Pauri

Begin your day at Har Ki Pauri, the most sacred ghat in Haridwar. Watch devotees take holy dips in the Ganges and soak in the serene morning vibes. The ghat is believed to be where Lord Vishnu left his footprint, making it a deeply spiritual spot.

Har Ki Pauri, near Brahma KundSunrise to 8 AM (best for peaceful vibes)Free (donations optional)
Tips:
  • Carry a small towel if you plan to dip your feet in the Ganges.
  • Avoid weekends if you prefer fewer crowds.
Visit Mansa Devi Temple
Visit Mansa Devi Temple

Take the cable car or hike up to Mansa Devi Temple, perched on Bilwa Parvat. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, believed to fulfill wishes. The panoramic view of Haridwar from the top is breathtaking.

Bilwa Parvat, near Har Ki Pauri8 AM - 12 PM (before the midday heat)Cable car: INR 100-150 round trip, Hike: Free
Tips:
  • Bring a small thread to tie a wish at the temple tree.
  • The hike is steep but rewarding—wear comfortable shoes.
Evening Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri
Evening Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri

Return to Har Ki Pauri in the evening for the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti. Priests perform rituals with fire lamps, chanting hymns as the sun sets. The atmosphere is electric, with floating diyas illuminating the river.

Har Ki Pauri ghat6 PM - 7 PM (arrive 30 mins early for a good spot)Free (donations optional)
Tips:
  • Keep your belongings secure—it gets crowded.
  • Silence your phone to respect the rituals.

Must Try Foods

Aloo Puri at Mohan Ji Puri Wale
Kachori with Sabzi at Mathura Walo Ki Pracheen Kachori
Fresh Jalebi at Hoshiyar Puri

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Haridwar Junction (1 km, 10 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Haridwar Bus Stand (1.5 km, 15 mins by walk or auto)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Autos and cycle rickshaws widely available; Uber/Ola works but less reliable

No destinations found for this itinerary

Day 2

Day 2 in Haridwar

A mix of spiritual sites, local markets, and a peaceful retreat to the riverbanks for a quieter experience away from the crowds.

Activities

Chandi Devi Temple Trek
Chandi Devi Temple Trek

Start your day with a short but rewarding trek up Neel Parvat to Chandi Devi Temple. The 3 km uphill path is lined with lush greenery and offers stunning views of Haridwar. If you're not up for the hike, take the cable car instead. The temple itself is serene, dedicated to Goddess Chandi, and the morning atmosphere is perfect for quiet reflection.

Chandi Devi Temple, Neel ParvatEarly morning (6:30 AM - 9:30 AM) to avoid the heatFree (trek), ₹150-200 round trip (cable car)
Tips:
  • Carry water and wear comfortable shoes for the trek.
  • The cable car opens at 7:30 AM—arrive early to beat the crowds.
Explore Moti Bazaar & Jwalapur Market

Dive into Haridwar’s bustling local markets. Moti Bazaar is famous for its brassware, religious souvenirs, and handmade jewelry. Jwalapur Market, slightly less touristy, is where locals shop for spices, sweets, and traditional Uttarakhandi handicrafts. Don’t miss trying fresh jalebis from a street vendor—they’re legendary here.

Moti Bazaar & Jwalapur Market, near Har Ki PauriLate morning (10:30 AM - 12:30 PM) when shops are fully openVaries (budget ₹200-500 for small souvenirs or snacks)
Tips:
  • Bargain politely—prices are often inflated for tourists.
  • Try the kachoris at Shiv Misthan Bhandar in Jwalapur.
Quiet Time at Bhimgoda Kund & Ashrams

Escape the hustle by heading to Bhimgoda Kund, a peaceful water tank linked to the Mahabharata. Nearby, explore the serene ashrams like Sapt Rishi Ashram or Parmarth Niketan. If you’re lucky, you might catch an evening yoga session or a casual discourse by the Ganga.

Bhimgoda Kund, near Sapt Rishi AshramLate afternoon (4:00 PM - 5:30 PM) for cooler weatherFree (donations welcome at ashrams)
Tips:
  • Dress modestly when visiting ashrams.
  • Check ashram notice boards for impromptu events or talks.

Must Try Foods

Aloo Puri (breakfast staple)
Kachori with spicy chutney
Bal Mithai (Uttarakhand’s fudgy sweet)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Haridwar Junction (1-3 km from most attractions, 10-15 min by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Haridwar Bus Stand (central location, frequent buses to Rishikesh/Dehradun)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Autos and shared tempos are everywhere; negotiate fares upfront. Ola/Uber available but less reliable.

Day 3

Hidden Gems of Haridwar

A relaxed day exploring lesser-known spots and local flavors in Haridwar, perfect for soaking in the city's quieter side.

Activities

Morning at Shanti Kunj & Patanjali Yogpeeth
Morning at Shanti Kunj & Patanjali Yogpeeth

Start your day with a peaceful visit to Shanti Kunj, a serene ashram known for its spiritual ambiance and lush gardens. Later, head to Patanjali Yogpeeth, a modern yoga and Ayurveda center founded by Baba Ramdev. Even if you're not into yoga, the campus is worth a stroll for its clean, green spaces and the chance to see Ayurvedic products being made.

Shanti Kunj near Bhimgoda Kund, Patanjali Yogpeeth in Kankhal7:00 AM - 10:00 AM (best before the crowds arrive)Free (donations welcome at Shanti Kunj)
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around Patanjali's large campus
  • Try the herbal tea at Patanjali's canteen—it's refreshing!
Local Bites & Crafts in Kankhal

Kankhal, a quieter part of Haridwar, is perfect for trying authentic local food without the tourist crowds. Stop by small eateries for piping hot kachoris or aloo puri. Then, browse the area's tiny shops for handmade wooden toys and rudraksha beads—great souvenirs you won't find in the main markets.

Kankhal Market, near Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple11:00 AM - 12:30 PM (before lunch rush)₹100-300 for food, shopping varies
Tips:
  • Look for the small stall near the temple selling fresh jalebis—they're legendary here
  • Bargaining is expected in craft shops, but keep it friendly
Sunset by the Ganges at Gau Ghat

Skip the crowds of Har Ki Pauri and head to Gau Ghat, where locals go for quiet evening dips. Watch devotees perform rituals as the sun sets, or just sit on the steps with a cup of chai from a nearby vendor. It's the perfect way to unwind after days of temple-hopping.

Gau Ghat, near Subhash Ghat (10-min walk from Har Ki Pauri)5:30 PM - 6:30 PM (varies with sunset)Free (chai costs ₹10-20)
Tips:
  • The ghat has fewer lights than Har Ki Pauri—carry a phone torch if staying late
  • Respect ongoing rituals; photography is fine but maintain distance

Must Try Foods

Kachori with aloo sabzi (flaky pastry with spiced potatoes)
Bal mithai (local fudge-like sweet)
Fresh sugarcane juice with ginger

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Haridwar Junction (2 km from city center, 10-min cab ride)
Nearest Bus Stop
Haridwar Bus Stand (frequent buses to Rishikesh/Dehradun)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Auto-rickshaws and shared tempos everywhere; Uber/Ola work but cash payment preferred

Travel Tips

Pack quick-dry clothes for rafting - you will get soaked
Bargain hard for rafting packages near Rishikesh Bridge
Carry binoculars for wildlife spotting in Rajaji
Try the hot aloo puri at Mohan Ji Puri Wale near Har Ki Pauri

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